The Clayton Equity Commission convened on September 12, 2025, to discuss various agenda items, including the approval of previous meeting minutes and the introduction of a new member. The meeting began with a roll call, confirming the attendance of members, including Frances, who joined via phone from a public location.
The commission swiftly moved to approve the minutes from the June and July meetings, with motions and seconds provided by members, resulting in unanimous approvals for both sets of minutes.
A highlight of the meeting was the introduction of Shelley Tysus, the newest member of the commission. Tysus shared her background, noting her long-standing residency in Clayton and her experience in providing sign language interpreting and captioning services. She emphasized her commitment to community service and her knowledge of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Following Tysus's introduction, existing members took turns introducing themselves. Stuart, a founding member, discussed his focus on justice administration in Clayton, particularly regarding police practices. Ben, another founding member and former mayor, expressed enthusiasm for the commission's achievements and welcomed Tysus warmly. Joanna, representing Washington University, highlighted the collaborative spirit of the group, while Ted, a small business owner, echoed the sentiments of his fellow members.
Karen, an attorney and member of the commission, briefly introduced herself and noted her intention to leave early. Frances, also a long-standing member, reflected on the commission's work during significant events like COVID-19 and the George Floyd protests. Becky and Gary, both attorneys and long-time residents, shared their experiences and connections to the commission, with Gary humorously recalling his long history in Clayton.
The meeting concluded with Lauren, the chair, expressing gratitude for Tysus's presence and contributions. The commission's collaborative atmosphere and commitment to equity in the community were evident throughout the discussions, setting a positive tone for future initiatives.