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Concord DEI Commission to launch structured Community Coffee series, first session on housing Sept. 3
Summary
The Concord Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission voted to pilot a structured Community Coffee series and named Commissioner Liz Rest to lead a Sept. 3 session focused on housing and equity. Commissioners debated format, timing and budget; Magnolia will confirm the library booking.
The Concord Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission approved plans July 9 to launch a structured Community Coffee series, with the first session focused on housing scheduled for Sept. 3 at the Concord Public Library.
Chair Andrea Fonserada said the commission wants the coffee series to become a monthly, hybrid opportunity combining a short expert presentation and community Q&A. "I'm delighted that Commissioner Liz has agreed to lead our first structured community coffee session in September, focusing on housing," Fonserada said.
The proposal calls for a concise, 15–20 minute overview followed by audience questions and facilitated discussion. Commissioner Liz Rest said she would "provide an overview of Concord housing, what's going on, how it relates to DEI specifically, and then to moderate other speakers or to have it be Q and A depending on how formal the setting is." Rest said the session will aim to explain housing terms in plain language and point residents to next steps in town planning processes.
Commissioners debated venue and timing. Several favored starting earlier than 7 p.m. because the library closes at 8 p.m.; options discussed included a 6 p.m. start or rotating times and locations to widen access. Commissioners also flagged resource questions: who would produce outreach materials, whether refreshments would be provided, and what budget is available for ongoing sessions. Magnolia was asked to confirm the library date and time; Andrea Fonserada said she would email logistics and asked Rest to draft a short blurb for outreach.
The commission discussed partnering selectively with outside groups but generally favored running the first session as a DEI‑led event to keep the conversation equity‑focused. Several members suggested linking the event to the MCI master‑planning timeline and to upcoming consultant presentations so attendees know where to find more detailed zoning or planning information.
The commission asked staff and volunteers to prepare a flyer and outreach plan in August so organizers can use September as a test run and iterate based on turnout and feedback.
