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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda 09-09-2025; 10 - Human Relations Commission – Appointments Discussion 1 ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT Meeting Date: September 9, 2025 Action Agenda Item No. 10 SUBJECT: Human Relations Commission — Appointments Discussion DEPARTMENT: Board of Commissioners ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT: Recommendations Clerk's Office, 919-245-2125 Members and Applicants Summary Sheet Applications for Persons Recommended Applications of Other Applicants Membership Roster Applicant Interest List Annual Work Plan PURPOSE: To discuss appointments to the Human Relations Commission. BACKGROUND: The Human Relations Commission studies and makes recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners concerning problems in the field of human relationships. The Commission seeks solutions to community issues that may create animosity and unrest, makes recommendations designed to promote goodwill and harmony among groups in the county, and addresses and attempts to remedy the violence, tensions, polarization, and other harm created through discrimination, bias, hatred, and inequity. The Board of County Commissioners appoints all twelve (12) members. The following individuals are recommended for Board consideration: NAME POSITION TYPE OF EXPIRATION DESCRIPTION APPOINTMENT DATE TERM April At-Large Partial Term 06/30/2027 Thompson Benjamin King At-Large First Full Term 09/30/2028 Shane Lukas At-Large First Full Term 09/30/2028 (reappointment) Rhian Town of Chapel Hill First Full Term 06/30/2028 Carreker-Ford (move from At- Large osition t- Lar eposition Mary Lucas At-Large Partial Term 06/30/2026 2 If the individuals listed above are appointed, no vacancies remain. FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with this item. ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports: • GUIDING PRINCIPLE — INCLUSIVITY AND ENGAGEMENT We foster an environment in which all are welcomed, represented, and empowered to participate in and feel connected to their community. • GUIDING PRINCIPLE — DEDICATION AND RESPECT We commit to our roles in public service and organizational excellence by fostering the skills, talents, and innovation of our residents, employees, volunteers, and boards needed to carry out this work. RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board discuss appointments to the Human Relations Commission. 3 ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA OFFICE OF CIVIL RIGHTS&CIVIC LIFE August 26, 2025 The Respectable Jamezetta Bedford, Chair Orange County Board of County Commissioners P.O. Box 8181 Hillsborough,NC 27278 Re: Board New Appointments The Orange County Human Relations Commission (HRC) recommends April Thompson to fill position #1, Benjamin King to fill position #4, and Shane Lukas to continue serving in position #6. The HRC also asks the Board to consider moving Rhian Carreker-Ford from position #5 (At-Large) to position #11 (Town of Chapel Hill), and to appoint Mary Lucas to position #5. These appointments would bring the HRC back to full membership. All recommended applicants bring valued perspectives based on their lived experiences and professional expertise. Pa,d$earl¢ Paul Slack, Chief Civil Rights Officer Office of Civil Rights and Civic Life 4 Human Relations Commission Members and Applicants Name Member or Applicant? Gender Identity Race/Ethnic Background Age Range Township Also Serves on Cory Hogans Member Male African American 35-59 Hillsborough Tonya Jones Member Female African American 35-59 Cheeks Rhian Carreker-Ford Member Male African American 35-59 Chapel Hill Shane Lukas Member Male White 35-59 Eno Krista Caraway Member Female White 35-59 Chapel Hill Jameelah Merritt Member Non-binary African American 18-34 Hillsborough Alcoholic Beverage Control Board Jennifer Sykes Member Female Hispanic 35-59 Hillsborough Orange County Housing Authority Board Wendy Calvin Member Female Other 35-59 Cheeks Josh Ravitch Member Male White Chapel Hill VACANT VACANT VACANT Victoria Hudson Applicant Female White 35-59 Hillsborough Orange County Housing Authority Board Benjamin King Applicant Male White 18-34 Chapel Hill Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool Advisory Board on Aging Mary Lucas Applicant Female White 35-59 Hillsborough Animal Services Advisory Board April Thompson Applicant Female White 35-59 Hillsborough 5 Page 1 of 2 April Thompson Volunteer Application Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions Name: Ms. April Thompson Name Called: Home Address: 2517 Orange Grove Rd. Hillsborough NC 27278 Phone: 919-904-0935 Email: athompson@orangecountync.gov Year of OC Residence: 1984 Township of Residence: Hillsborough Zone of Residence: County Gender Identity: Female Ethnic Background: White Age Range: 35-59 Community Activities/Organizational Memberships: Orange County Optimist Club Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards: Orange County Optimist Club Boards/Commissions applied for: Opioid Advisory Committee Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board I believe my personal experiences and commitment to helping others make me a strong candidate for the opioid advisory committee. Having lost my brother to addiction, I have a deep understanding of the struggles faced by individuals and families impacted by this crisis. My journey to find resources and support for him was challenging, and it highlighted the urgent need for compassionate and effective approaches to addiction treatment. I bring not only my heartfelt empathy but also a determination to advocate for meaningful change and support initiatives that can truly make a difference in the lives of those affected by opioid addiction. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board Having lived in this community for 40 years, I have seen it flourish and evolve, and my deep- rooted love for it drives me to contribute actively. My consistent volunteer work has allowed me to understand the diverse needs of our residents and build meaningful connections with them. I believe that my experience and passion make me an excellent candidate for this board. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? I am dedicated to fostering inclusivity and harmony among all community members, and I am eager to bring my heart and commitment to this vital role. By working collaboratively, I hope to help create an environment where every voice is heard, and every individual feels valued. Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Human Relations Commission 6 Page 2 of 2 April Thompson Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board With deep roots in this community and a strong commitment to helping others, I believe my background makes me an excellent fit for the Human Relations Commission Board. Coming from a well-known family in the area and actively working within the county, I have developed a strong understanding of the needs and challenges facing our community. My extensive involvement in community outreach initiatives has equipped me with the skills to foster dialogue and promote inclusivity. I am eager to bring my passion for service and collaborative spirit to the board, ensuring that all voices in our community are heard and valued. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board I love Hillsborough. My father worked for the Town and the old water plant was named after him. The Blue Bird houses that hang on the street signs all over town, my daddy(Adron Thompson) built. You won t find anyone who loves this community and wants to see it thrive more than me. I got that from him. I love the people here, the buildings, the landscape, the sense of home , the love thy neighbor is real in this town and I love that about it. I want to do anything I can to preserve that. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? I am dedicated to fostering inclusivity and harmony among all community members, and I am eager to bring my heart and commitment to this vital role. By working collaboratively, I hope to help create an environment where every voice is heard, and every individual feels valued. Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Boards/Commissions appointments: Other Comments: This application was current on: 4/3/2025 2:19:11 PM Date Printed: 4/7/2025 7 Page 1 of 2 Benjamin King Volunteer Application Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions Name: Mr. Benjamin King Name Called: Home Address: 111 Dillard St. Carrboro NC 27510 Phone: 704-223-2555 Email: bkco202O@gmail.com Year of OC Residence: 2023 Township of Residence: Chapel Hill Zone of Residence: Carrboro City Limits Gender Identity: Male Ethnic Background: White Age Range: 18-34 Community Activities/Organizational Memberships: ICMA (International City and County Management Association) Executive Board of UNC ICMA Student Chapter NCCCMA (North Carolina City and County Management Association) Notary Public Freemason, University Lodge #408 Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards: None Boards/Commissions applied for: Human Relations Commission Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board My role in developing a Code of Ethics with the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion team at the Raleigh Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources Department highlights my commitment to ethical standards and inclusivity, aligning with the HRC's mission to promote equal treatment and personal dignity. Serving on the City of Salisbury Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, I gained valuable experience in advisory roles and policy input, essential for the HRC's advisory functions. My work as a Program Leader with Rowan County YoungLife Capernaum demonstrated my dedication to community engagement and inclusive program development. As a Master of Public Administration (MPA) student specializing in local government, I am equipped with advanced knowledge of public policy, administrative processes, and community engagement strategies. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board I am eager to serve on the Orange County Human Relations Commission because I am passionate about advancing equity and fostering inclusive communities. This role offers a unique opportunity to directly contribute to policies and initiatives that promote equal treatment and protect personal dignity. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? 8 Page 2 of 2 Benjamin King I would contribute to the diversity of viewpoints by bringing a background that blends public administration, community engagement, and hands-on experience with diverse populations. With my academic focus on local government and practical experience in ethical standards development, program leadership for individuals with disabilities, and legislative support, I offer a perspective grounded in both theoretical knowledge and practical application. Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Boards/Commissions appointments: Orange County Parks and Recreation Council Application Date: 9/1/2024 Background, education and experience relevant to this board: At the age of 19 1 was appointed by Salisbury City Council to the City of Salisbury Parks and Recreation Advisory Board where I served as a liaison between the department and the managers office and City Council. I also recently completed an internship wi Reasons for wanting to serve on this board: I want to serve on this board because I think that parks and the ability to recreate are some of the most important things that a community can offer to it s citizens. Orange County is a growing community, and as people choose to move here, start business Conflict of Interest: Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool Application Date: 9/1/2024 Background, education and experience relevant to this board: As an MPA student with a focus on local government, I have developed a strong understanding of administrative processes and legal frameworks, which are crucial for conducting fair and impartial hearings. My role as an Appointed Member of the City of Salis Reasons for wanting to serve on this board: I am deeply committed to ensuring the fair treatment of both animals and residents within our community. This role provides an opportunity to contribute to the protection and welfare of animals while upholding the principles of justice and due process in Conflict of Interest: Other Comments: This application was current on: 9/1/2024 2:07:16 PM Date Printed: 11/20/2024 9 Page 1 of 2 Shane Lukas Volunteer Application Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions Name: Mr. Shane Lukas Name Called: Home Address: 3607 Ameshia Dr. Hillsborough NC 27278 Phone: 646-217-2636 Email: community@shanelukas.com Year of OC Residence: 2019 Township of Residence: Eno Zone of Residence: County Gender Identity: Male Ethnic Background: White Age Range: 35-59 Community Activities/Organizational Memberships: HARMONY (formerly Raleigh Professionals Chamber of Commerce) / Carolinas LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce AIGA (Graphic Design Org) Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards: None, but I am interested in engaging in my local community now that I recently completed my Masters degree. (I have served on nonprofit boards in the past for areas like adult literacy) Boards/Commissions applied for: Human Relations Commission Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board I have a long history in community organizing around equity and inclusive practices, including on nonprofit boards (adult literacy, etc.). I also now have nearly 10 years as a business owner(my studio is in Greensboro and my clients are nationwide with none based here in Orange County) and recently completed my MBA. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board This is my preferred choice for becoming part of the local community in this way. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community I appreciate Orange County s commitment to inclusive practices and protections, and I would be interested in continuing to support equity for all our many Orange County citizens and communities. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? I believe I can bring unique experience to the board from both my professional and personal history as well as demonstrated commitment to advocating for fair and responsible practices that make sure all people in Orange County feel seen and heard. Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? 10 Page 2 of 2 Shane Lukas Arts Commission Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board I have my own history in areas like spoken word and poetry where I am published, but I am also nearly in my 10th year running a brand communications company with a long history where I have many design awards. I also have a long history in community organizing around equity and inclusive practices, including on nonprofit boards (adult literacy, etc.). Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board I feel like I would be an asset to this board by having familiarity with institutional processes and practices in arts granting and creative community support. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? I think I bring many different experiences, ranging from literary to visual art experience as well as a long history as a community advocacy and active LGBTQ+ community member. Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Boards/Commissions appointments: Other Comments: This application was current on: 5/12/2024 6:24:17 PM Date Printed: 5/14/2024 11 Page 1 of 2 Rhian Carreker-Ford Volunteer Application Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions Name: Mr. Rhian Carreker-Ford Name Called: Home Address: 416 Melanie Ct. Chapel Hill NC 27514 Phone: 510-910-8064 Email: rhian.carreker.ford@gmail.com Year of OC Residence: 2019 Township of Residence: Chapel Hill Zone of Residence: C.H. City Limits Gender Identity: Male Ethnic Background: African American Age Range: 35-59 Community Activities/Organizational Memberships: Community Activities: Currently trying to build up a Chapel Hill CERT program. Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards: None Boards/Commissions applied for: Human Relations Commission Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board I have a masters in public policy from Duke and a masters of Business administration from UNC. I have an interest in public service and currently work as a consultant that is aligned to public service. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board I have lived in Chapel Hill for a number of years and want to be more active in the community. A few years ago there was a petition regarding the Booker Creek trail and I was able to not only sign the position but attend community meetings regarding the future of said trail. Being able to participate in the Civic process was I opening and I want to be able to give back to the community and when I live. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? I don t know of the current makeup of the board, but I bring a unique viewpoint that recognizes otherness as a daily struggle and work to make equity and justice centered approaches the dominant version. Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? 12 Page 2 of 2 Rhian Carreker-Ford Boards/Commissions appointments: Other Comments: This application was current on: 9/29/2023 1:42:24 PM Date Printed: 10/4/2023 13 Page 1 of 3 Mary Lucas Volunteer Application Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions Name: Ms. Mary Lucas Name Called: Home Address: 404 Lakeshore Drive hillsborough NC 27278 Phone: 919-720-0361 Email: maryelizalucas@gmail.com Year of OC Residence: 2024 Township of Residence: Hillsborough Zone of Residence: Hillsborough Town Limits Gender Identity: Female Ethnic Background: White Age Range: 35-59 Community Activities/Organizational Memberships: I previously served on both the Humans Relations Commission and Community Engagement Boards for the City of Raleigh. I recently moved to Hillsborough and would like to be more involved. My family is from the area, generations back, and I am very invested in community engagement as a resident. Currently I serve on the Board for Neshama Animal Rescue; volunteer at UNC Hillsborough Hospital as a pet therapy team; host a weekly radio show and podcast to provide resources and information for the aging community (WPTF FM/AM); am a member of Triangle Healthcare Executives Forum; and previously volunteered on board committee at Habitat for Humanity. My professional work is Vice President at a nonprofit hospice and palliative care organization that serves our community, and it s my passion to ensure that all who need our services are able to access them. Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards: N/A but would be interested in this board, Advisory Board on Aging, or Animal Services Advisory - all of which apply to my volunteer work and professional background. Boards/Commissions applied for: Advisory Board on Aging Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board With a strong background in healthcare leadership for the aging population (hospice, palliative care, caregiver support), strategic planning, and a proven track record of developing impactful solutions for diverse populations through grants in our community, I believe my experiences will provide a valuable asset to the Aging Advisory Board. I also currently host a weekly radio show/podcast called Aging Matters that helps our aging population find information and resources in the community. I interview organizations such as Snow Approach, our local health systems, researchers and more! Additionally, I have my Masters from Johns Hopkins in Healthcare Management and have focused my research and career in health care equity with specific focus on caregiver support and health advocacy for the aging. 14 Page 2 of 3 Mary Lucas Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board The aging population has been my focus in my professional and personal life for years. I am very involved in many different segments of the industry and work tirelessly to support organizations across our community that advocate for the aging. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? Working in healthcare offers a unique and valuable perspective to the Advisory Board on Aging by providing firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities within the aging population. Healthcare professionals interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds, enabling them to understand the varied needs and preferences of older adults, including those related to access to care, chronic disease management, mental health, and social determinants of health. This experience fosters an understanding of the intersection between health, socioeconomic factors, and aging, ensuring that policies and solutions are inclusive, equitable, and responsive to the diverse needs of older adults. Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? I'm not sure if conflict- but I do work at a nonprofit hospice/palliative care organization. I also host a rad ioshow/pod cast for the aging population (Aging Matters-W PTF) Human Relations Commission Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board I have served on the City of Raleigh Human Relations Commission (two terms and once as co- chair), and Community Engagement Board. I was very involved when living there and would welcome the opportunity to serve in Orange County as well. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board Working directly with individuals from varied backgrounds has given me valuable insight into how social determinants of health, access to services, and cultural differences shape people s experiences. I believe this perspective would contribute meaningfully to the Human Relations Commission, helping to promote equity, inclusion, and positive relationships within the community by advocating for policies that address the varied needs of all residents, particularly underserved and vulnerable populations. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? I think I would continue to focus on reaching populations who are less involved -or not at all involved - and meeting people where they are to engage them in the county conversations. This was a huge focus for me in Raleigh. Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Animal Services Advisory Board Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board I currently serve on the Board for a nonprofit dog/cat rescue, foster hospice/aging dogs, and am a volunteer at UNC Hillsborough Hospital with my therapy dog -Waylon. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board Animal rights and advocacy is a huge passion of mine! I work regularly with county shelters across our state and am very familiar with the system. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? The rescue perspective on how we can work closer together to save more lives, relieve shelter burdens as much as possible, and efficiently provide care to the county. 15 Page 3 of 3 Mary Lucas Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Boards/Commissions appointments: Other Comments: This application was current on: 3/5/2025 12:33:05 PM Date Printed: 3/7/2025 16 Board and Commission Members And Vacant Positions Human Relations Commission Meeting Times: 6:00 pm Fourth Tuesday of every month Contact Person:Paul Slack Meeting Place: Varies Contact Phone: 919-245-2497 Positions: 12 Length:3 years Terms: 2 Description: <div>The Human Relations Commission studies and makes recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners concerning problems in the field of human relationships.This commission seeks solutions to community issues that may create animosity and unrest,makes recommendations designed to promote goodwill and harmony among groups in the county,and addresses and attempts to remedy the violence,tensions,polarization,and other harm created through discrimination,bias,hatred,and inequity.</div> VACANT 1 First Appointed: Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment: Ethnic Background: Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2027 Age Range: Special Repr: Number of Terms: Dr. Cory Hogans 2 First Appointed: 11/19/2024 Gender Identity: Male Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 11/19/2024 Ethnic Background: African American Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 09/30/2027 Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1 Mrs. Tonya Jones 3 First Appointed: 12/04/2023 Gender Identity: Female Township: Cheeks Current Appointment: 12/04/2023 Ethnic Background: African American Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2026 Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1 VACANT 4 First Appointed: Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment: Ethnic Background: Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 09/30/2028 Age Range: Special Repr: Number of Terms: Mr. Rhian Carreker-Ford 5 Vice-Chair First Appointed: 12/04/2023 Gender Identity: Male Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 12/04/2023 Ethnic Background: African American Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2026 Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1 Mr. Shane Lukas 6 First Appointed: 11/19/2024 Gender Identity: Male Township: Eno Current Appointment: 11/19/2024 Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 09/30/2025 Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Number of Terms: Thursday,August 28,2025 Page 1 17 Board and Commission Members And Vacant Positions Human Relations Commission Meeting Times: 6:00 pm Fourth Tuesday of every month Contact Person:Paul Slack Meeting Place: Varies Contact Phone: 919-245-2497 Positions: 12 Length:3 years Terms: 2 Mrs. Krista Caraway 7 First Appointed: 04/15/2025 Gender Identity: Female Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 04/15/2025 Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Carrboro City Limits Expiration: 06/30/2028 Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Town of Carrboro Number of Terms: 1 Jameelah Merritt 8 Chair First Appointed: 03/21/2023 Gender Identity: Non Binary Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 04/15/2025 Ethnic Background: African American Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2028 Age Range: 18-34 Special Repr: Number of Terms: 2 Jennifer Sykes 9 First Appointed: 09/20/2022 Gender Identity: Female Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 12/04/2023 Ethnic Background: Hispanic Residency Req: Hillsborough Expiration: 06/30/2026 Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Town of Hillsborough Number of Terms: 1 Ms. Wendy Calvin 10 First Appointed: 04/15/2025 Gender Identity: Female Township: Cheeks Current Appointment: 04/15/2025 Ethnic Background: Other Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 09/30/2027 Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1 VACANT 11 First Appointed: Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment: Ethnic Background: Residency Req: Chapel Hill Expiration: 06/30/2028 Age Range: Special Repr: Town of Chapel Hill Number of Terms: Mr Josh Ravitch 12 First Appointed: 03/21/2023 Gender Identity: Male Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 06/20/2023 Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2026 Age Range: Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1 Thursday,August 28,2025 Page 2 18 Applicant Interest Listing by Board Name and by Applicant Name Contact Person: Paul Slack Human Relations Commission Contact Phone: 919-245-2497 Victoria Hudson Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 02/27/2024 Ethnic Background: White Township: Hillsborough Age Range 35-59 Zone of Residence: Hillsborough Town Limits Also Serves On: Orange County Housing Authority Board Mr. Benjamin King Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 09/01/2024 Ethnic Background: White Township: Chapel Hill Age Range 18-34 Zone of Residence: Carrboro City Limits Also Serves On: Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool Ms. Mary Lucas Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 03/05/2025 Ethnic Background: White Township: Hillsborough Age Range 35-59 Zone of Residence: Hillsborough Town Limits Also Serves On: Advisory Board on Aging Also Serves On: Animal Services Advisory Board Ms. April Thompson Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 04/03/2025 Ethnic Background: White Township: Hillsborough Age Range 35-59 Zone of Residence: County Also Serves On: Thursday,August 28,2025 Page 1 of 1 19 ORANGE COUNTY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ANNUAL REPORT/WORK PLAN Board/Commission Name: Human Relations Commission Report Period: January 2024 - December 2024 Person to address the BOCC and contact information: Jemm Merritt merrittiemm(d)-gmail.com 516-851-3209 Primary County Staff Contact Person: Paul Slack How many times per month does this board/commission meet, including any special meetings and sub-committee meetings? The Human Relations Commission meets once a month. Any special or sub-committee meetings are scheduled on an as-needed basis. Brief Statement of Board/Commission's Assigned Charge and Responsibilities: The Human Relations Commission is responsible for promoting mutual understanding, respect, and fair treatment among all people in Orange County. It advises the Board of County Commissioners on matters of human rights, conducts events to raise awareness, and collaborates with various community stakeholders to address human rights concerns. What are your Board/Commission's most important accomplishments? In 2024, we made significant progress in strengthening community ties through events and initiatives such as the annual Mildred Council Community Dinner and the annual Pauli Murray Awards. These events continue to honor local activists and bridge gaps within our diverse community. Additionally, our ongoing collaboration with other advisory boards, such as the Preservation Committee, led to the development of a tribute for 20 enslaved people who once lived and supported Orange County, marking an important step towards acknowledging and honoring our shared history. List of Specific Tasks, Events, or Functions Performed or Sponsored Annually: Organizing and hosting the annual Mildred Council Community Dinner Coordinating and hosting the Pauli Murray Awards ceremony Development and implementation of a community survey to identify and address local issues Collaboration with the Preservation Committee to honor enslaved people with a commemorative headstone Describe this board/commission's activities/accomplishments in carrying out BOCC goal(s)/priorities, if applicable: The Commission aligns its goals with the Board of County Commissioners' priority of fostering community engagement and inclusivity. By organizing community events like the Pauli Murray Awards and the Mildred Council Community Dinner, we create safe spaces for residents to connect and share their experiences. Our current work with the Preservation Committee on a tribute to enslaved individuals reflects our commitment to preserving and acknowledging the county's history. Describe the collaboration relationship(s) this particular board has with other advisory boards and commissions: The Human Relations Commission has been in regular collaboration with the Preservation Committee to honor the legacy of enslaved people in Orange County. This partnership aims to bring awareness to historical injustices and foster a deeper connection within our community. Our collaborative efforts extend to other commissions as we strive to address shared goals of inclusivity, acknowledgment, and community well-being. Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2024 as they relate to established BOCC goals and priorities. If applicable, is there a fiscal impact (i.e., funding, staff time, other resources) associated with these proposed activities (please list): For the remainder of 2024, the Committee plans to: 21 Finalize and administer a community survey to bridge identified gaps and improve engagement. Collaborate with the Preservation Committee to install a headstone tribute, which will be followed by a short commemorative ceremony. Continue organizing the annual Mildred Council Community Dinner and the annual Pauli Murray Awards. Fiscal challenges include the limited funds for planned events, which may impact our ability to fully realize some of these initiatives. We may seek additional funding or support to ensure these key activities can continue successfully. What are the concerns or emerging issues your board has identified for the upcoming year that it plans to address or wishes to bring to the Commissioners' attention? One key concern is the potential shortage of funds for our planned events. Despite our efforts to secure resources, current budget constraints may limit our capacity to fully execute activities such as community outreach events and the headstone tribute ceremony. We hope to work closely with the Board of Commissioners to address these financial limitations and continue fostering a strong, inclusive community. Additionally, the political climate is a focal point that the Commission will focus on in the upcoming year.