Needham HRC progresses complaint-intake setup and agrees to draft policy on public statements after screening debate

Committee members reported progress on the discrimination-complaint process and on making intake accessible to residents. A QR code linking to the complaint form has been created and will be posted on the committee's web page once staff (Tina) and IT confirm placement. IT staff said they will set up a Zoom phone line for complaint intake and train primary staff (identified in discussion) to use the line.

Members also discussed a recent documentary screening that generated mixed reactions among participants and the public. Several members said the event prompted questions about when the committee should post or share information about community events, and whether sponsorship or formal endorsement requires a vote. The committee agreed to draft a policy clarifying how it will handle public statements, informational posts, and sponsorships going forward; that policy will be an item on a future agenda.

Next steps: staff will finalize the Zoom phone line and provide training; the QR code will be posted after staff review; the committee will draft and adopt a written protocol on public statements and social-media guidance in the new year.