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Human Relations Commission adopts transparent process for event support; unanimous vote recorded
Summary
The Palo Alto Human Relations Commission voted to adopt formal guidelines for evaluating requests to endorse or support community events. The commission approved the measure unanimously and recorded an additional procedural vote to approve minutes.
PALO ALTO, Calif. — The Palo Alto Human Relations Commission on June 12 adopted a formal set of guidelines and an application procedure for individuals and organizations requesting the commission’s support or endorsement of community events and programs.
Commissioner Shea summarized the draft policy, which asks event organizers to apply at least six weeks before an event and to provide materials including a description of the event, organizational background, alignment with HRC goals, whether the HRC name or representatives will be requested, community impact and other sponsors. The policy clarifies that support does not include funding, staffing or logistical support and that the HRC reserves the right to decline requests.
Vice Chair Krause moved the adoption and Commissioner Carmen seconded. Commissioners voted unanimously to adopt the “Guidelines for Requesting Support from the Human Relations Commission.” The roll call recorded yes votes from Commissioner Shea, Vice Chair Krause, Commissioner Barr, Commissioner Kazi, Commissioner Carmen and Chair Mary Kate Stimler.
Earlier in the meeting the commission moved and approved the minutes from its May 8 meeting; that procedural motion also passed unanimously with the same yes votes recorded.
Commissioners said the new process is intended to increase transparency and consistency after occasional late or ad-hoc requests. The guidelines require that requests and supporting materials be distributed with the meeting agenda to allow public consideration. The policy also asks organizers to acknowledge HRC support in promotional materials and to provide a brief follow-up report to the commission after the event.
Ending: The newly adopted procedure will be used for future endorsement requests; commissioners and staff said the form and criteria can be revisited as needed.
