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Philomath Inclusivity Committee debates staff role and proposes community fellowship series
Summary
Members discussed how the committee should respond to resident concerns, the role of staff in committee meetings amid power-dynamic concerns, and proposed a monthly community 'fellowship' to host brave-space dialogues and build relationships across the town.
The Philomath Inclusivity Committee spent a substantial portion of its Nov. 19 meeting discussing committee function, staff participation and community engagement strategies, including a proposal to start a monthly "Philomath Fellowship" for sustained community conversation.
Committee members emphasized that when residents raise concerns the group should either provide resources, acknowledge jurisdictional limits, or take action if the issue falls within the committee's scope. One member summarized: the committee should respond even if that response is to say the matter is outside their jurisdiction and offer referrals.
Several members said the committee needs a space to learn and "unlearn." A member who proposed a new community series described the concept as a monthly, hour-long gathering to share personal stories and build trust; the first half would feature a volunteer speaker and the second half would be fellowship and discussion, with the eventual formation of affinity groups as the series matures.
Members also raised concerns about power dynamics when staff with formal authority attend meetings. City staff responded to those concerns directly, saying they are present to support the committee. "I'm here to support you. However, you need me to support you," city staff said, describing a willingness to step back from staffing roles if the committee prefers another arrangement for minute-taking or facilitation.
The committee asked staff to clarify typical staff roles in committee work and explored options such as separating logistical staff functions (minutes, agenda prep) from staff participation in discussions, or having staff attend ‘‘off the clock’’ for certain engagements. Members agreed to add a follow-up on process and staff roles to the January agenda, and a subcommittee was proposed to pilot community outreach and fellowship meeting logistics.
