Commission debates format, timing of Welcoming Week and multicultural events after low turnout

Commissioners reviewed outcomes from Welcoming Week and debated ways to increase participation in future community outreach events.

Members said weather and competing events likely reduced turnout for Welcoming Week. One presenter estimated Welcoming Week attendance at about 100 people compared with roughly 400 for Juneteenth; the commission noted that Facebook community pages were the most common way attendees learned about events. Commissioners proposed alternatives including moving the Welcoming Week activities next to the city art fair, hosting smaller targeted conversations focused on specific communities, or partnering with the school theater to provide a staged performance with seating.

Discussion also covered outreach to seniors and low-income apartment complexes; commissioners recommended on-site engagement (van visits, meetings in familiar environments) to raise participation rather than expecting residents to travel to central events. Several commissioners said targeted, community-specific conversations had yielded more in-depth feedback than large public fairs.

No formal vote was taken on changes to Welcoming Week; staff said they will include event options in the 2026 community engagement workplan and follow up with partners including school staff and community organizers.