HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-04-22 HRC Agenda Packet
Date:Thursday, April 22, 2021
Time:6:00 p.m.
Location:Virtual, Via Teleconference
PLEASE NOTE THAT, PURSUANT TO THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA'S
EXECUTIVE ORDER N-29-20, AND IN THE INTEREST OF THE PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY,
MEMBERS OF THE HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION AND STAFF MAY PARTICIPATE IN THIS
MEETING VIA TELECONFERENCE. IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE EXECUTIVE ORDER, THE
PUBLIC MAY VIEW THE MEETING ONLINE AND NOT AT CITY HALL, BUILDING A, EXECUTIVE
CONFERENCE ROOM 103.
HOW TO WATCH: Members of the public can access a link to the livestream at
www.chulavistaca.gov/virtualmeetings. Members of the public who wish to join by telephone only,
may call 1-844-992-4726 (U.S. Toll Free) and enter the access code: [187 495 7509].
HOW TO SUBMIT COMMENTS: Visit the online eComment portal for this meeting at:
www.chulavistaca.gov/virtualmeetings. The commenting period will be open shortly after the agenda
is published for a particular meeting and will remain open through the meeting, as described below.
All comments will be available to the public and the Human Relations Commission using the
eComment portal. Comments must be received prior to the time the Chair calls for the close of the
commenting period. Comments received after such time will not be considered by the Human
Relations Commission. If you have difficulty or are unable to submit a comment, please contact
Human Relations Commission staff at hrc@chulavistaca.gov.
ACCESSIBILITY: Individuals with disabilities are invited to request reasonable modifications or
accommodations in order to access and/or participate in a Human Relations Commission meeting by
contacting the Human Resources Department at humanresources@chulavistaca.gov (California
Relay Service is available for the hearing impaired by dialing 711) at least forty-eight hours in
advance of the meeting.
***The City of Chula Vista is relying on commercial technology to livestream and accept public
comments. If we have technical difficulties, we will resolve them as quickly as possible. City staff will
take all possible measures to ensure a publicly accessible experience. ***
Pages
1.CALL TO ORDER
2.ROLL CALL
Commissioner Baber, Felix, Godinez, Gutierrez, Kean-Ayub, Lake, Medina, Ratner,
Vice-Chair Branch, Chair Martinez-Montes
3.CONSENT CALENDAR
Staff Recommendation:
Commission approve the recommended action on the below consent calendar
items.
3.1.APPROVAL OF MINUTES of October 22, 2020, January 28, 2021 and
March 25, 2021
4
Staff Recommendation:
Commission approve the minutes.
3.2.WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS 19
Communications from Commissioners Bobby Godinez and Peggy Ratner
requesting excused absences from the April 22, 2021 Human Relations
Commission meeting.
Staff Recommendation:
Commission excuse the absences.
4.PRESENTATIONS
The following item(s) will be presentations given by staff. Action on these item(s) is
typically limited to the Commission receiving the presentation and providing
direction or feedback to staff, as appropriate.
4.1.OVERVIEW OF CHULA VISTA SMART CITY PROGRAMS
Presenter: Chief Sustainability Officer Gakunga
Staff Recommendation:
Hear the presentation and provide input.
4.2.QUALITY OF LIFE INDICATORS FOR THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA
Presenter: Growth Management Oversight Commission Staff Liaisons
Facilities Financing Manager Elliott and Associate Planner Vander Bie
Staff Recommendation:
Hear the presentation and provide input.
5.PUBLIC COMMENTS
Persons may address the Commission on any subject matter within the
Commission’s jurisdiction that is not listed as an item on the agenda. State law
generally prohibits the Commission from discussing or taking action on any issue
not included on the agenda, but, if appropriate, the Commission may schedule the
topic for future discussion or refer the matter to staff. If you wish to comment,
please submit comments electronically at: www.chulavistaca.gov/virtualmeetings.
4/22/2021 HRC Page 2 of 20
6.ACTION ITEMS
The Item(s) listed in this section of the agenda will be considered individually by the
Commission and are expected to elicit discussion and deliberation. If you wish to
comment on one of these items, you may do so at
www.chulavistaca.gov/virtualmeetings.
6.1.CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING AREAS OF
FOCUS/WORK PROGRAM FOR THE HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION
FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2021
Staff Recommendation:
Commission discuss and take action as appropriate.
OTHER BUSINESS
7.STAFF COMMENTS
7.1.Columbus Statue
- Parks and Recreation Commission meeting May 20, 2021
- City Council of the City of Chula Vista meeting May 25, 2021
7.2.COVID-19 Updates
8.CHAIR'S COMMENTS
9.COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS
10.ADJOURNMENT
to the regular meeting on May 27, 2021 via teleconference in Chula Vista,
California.
Materials provided to the Human Relations Commission related to any open-
session item on this agenda are available for public review at
https://chulavista.granicusideas.com/meetings or by contacting Human Relations
Commission staff at hrc@chulavistaca.gov
4/22/2021 HRC Page 3 of 20
Page 1 | Human Relations Commission Minutes October 22, 2020
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE
HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA
October 22, 2020 Via Teleconference
6:00 p.m.
Pursuant to the Governor of the State of California's Executive Order N-29-20, and in the interest
of public health and safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, members of the Human Relations
Commission and staff participated in this meeting via teleconference. All votes were taken by roll
call.
CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the Human Relations Commission of the City of Chula Vista was called to
order at 6:00 p.m. in Building A, located at 276 Fourth Avenue, Chula Vista, California and by
teleconference.
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Commissioners Felix, Gutierrez, Kean-Ayub, Lake,
Medina, Ratner (arrived at 6:07 p.m.), Godinez (arrived at
6:12 p.m.), Vice-Chair Branch, and Chair Martinez-
Montes
ABSENT: Commissioner Baber
ALSO PRESENT: Director of Human Resources Chase, Marketing and
Communications Manager Steinberger, City Attorney Googins,
Western Regional Manager of Welcoming America Zavala, and
Human Resources Technician Haskins
CONSENT CALENDAR
Chair Martinez-Montes called for a two-minute pause to allow members of the public to submit
any final electronic comments on items on the consent calendar. Secretary Haskins announced
that no electronic comments had been received and no comments had been received via email.
1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 REGULAR
HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION MEETING
2. REQUEST FOR AN EXCUSED ABSENCE FROM CHAIR MARTINEZ-
MONTES FOR THE SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 HUMAN RELATIONS
COMMISSION MEETING.
4/22/2021 HRC Page 4 of 20
Page 2 | Human Relations Commission Minutes October 22, 2020
ACTION: Chair Martinez-Montes moved to approve staff’s recommendations and
offered Consent Calendar Items 1 and 2. Commissioner Branch seconded
the motion, and it carried, by the following roll call vote:
Yes: 7 – Commissioners Felix, Gutierrez, Kean-Ayub, Lake, Medina,
Vice-Chair Branch, and Chair Martinez-Montes
No: 0
Abstain: 0
ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR
There were none.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Chair Martinez-Montes called for a two-minute pause to allow members of the public to submit
any final electronic public comments. Secretary Haskins announced that no electronic comments
had been received and no comments had been received via email.
ACTION ITEMS
3. PRESENTATION FROM WELCOMING AMERICA ABOUT WELCOMING
AMERICA ACTIONS THROUGHOUT THE COUNTRY AND DISUCSSION
ABOUT FUTURE COMMISISON ACTIONS IN SUPPORT OF
WELCOMING AMERICA
Western Regional Manager of Welcoming America Zavala gave a presentation on the item.
Chair Martinez-Montes and called for a two-minute pause to allow members of the public to
submit electronic comments on the item. Secretary Haskins announced that 0 electronic
comments had been received and 0 comments had been received via email.
No action.
4. PRESENTATION FROM STAFF ON THE ACTIONS TAKEN BY THE
CITY OF CHULA VISTA IN RESPONSE TO COVID19 AND DISCUSSION
REGARDING IMPACT TO THE COMMUNITY FROM COVID-19
Marketing and Communications Manager Steinberger gave a presentation on the item.
4/22/2021 HRC Page 5 of 20
Page 3 | Human Relations Commission Minutes October 22, 2020
Chair Martinez-Montes and called for a two-minute pause to allow members of the public to
submit electronic comments on the item. Secretary Haskins announced that 0 electronic
comments had been received and 0 comments had been received via email.
No action.
5. DISCUSSION ON AREAS OF FOCUS FOR THE HUMAN RELATIONS
COMMISION FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2021
Chair Martinez-Montes and called for a two-minute pause to allow members of the public to
submit electronic comments on the item. Secretary Haskins announced that 0 electronic
comments had been received and 0 comments had been received via email.
ACTION: Commissioner Godinez moved to create an informal committee to discuss
creating an event to celebrate immigrants and add a youth to the
commission. Commissioner Lake, Godinez, Kean-Ayub, and Medina
agreed to be a part of the informal committee. Commissioner Lake
seconded the motion, and it carried, by the following roll call vote:
Yes: 9 – Commissioners Felix, Gutierrez, Kean-Ayub, Lake, Medina,
Ratner, Godinez, Vice-Chair Branch, and Chair Martinez-Montes
No: 0
6. DISCUSSION AND ACTION, INCLUDING UPDATES FROM,
AND/OR FORMATION OF, AD HOC COMMITTEES, ON
EVENTS/ACTIVITIES FOR HRC PARTICIPATION
Chair Martinez-Montes and called for a two-minute pause to allow members of the public to
submit electronic comments on the item. Secretary Haskins announced that no electronic
comments had been received and no comments had been received via email.
No action.
OTHER BUSINESSS
7. STAFF COMMENTS
• Director of Human Resources Chase stated that she was working on a
presentation with South Bay Community Services about youth services
and a quarterly Welcoming City update. She mentioned that HHSA is
having a free flu shot clinic in Chula Vista on Saturday, October 24
from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.. She also thanked the commission for their
4/22/2021 HRC Page 6 of 20
Page 4 | Human Relations Commission Minutes October 22, 2020
time and commitment to each meeting.
• Marketing and Communications Manager Steinberger stated that the
Districting Commission has been selected and wished the Human
Relations Commission happy holidays and a happy New Year.
• City Attorney Googins stated that it was his privilege to provide
support to the Human Relations Commission.
8. CHAIR’S COMMENTS
• Chair Montes stated that this year was a challenging year and she is
impressed to serve with this commission. She wishes everyone on the
commission a happy New Year.
9. COMMISSIONERS’ COMMENTS
• Commissioner Medina expressed his gratitude for the Human
Relations Commission and staff for their hard work and
encouraged staff and the police department to reach out to him
regarding race relations and conversations.
• Commissioner Felix thanked City staff and City leaders for
their hard work and letting the commission to continue to meet.
• Commissioner Branch encouraged everyone to vote whether in
person or by mail and wished the commission happy holidays
and a happy new year.
• Commissioner Godinez thanked the staff and City leaders for
their great work and wished the commission a great next two
months.
ADJOURNMENT
At 8:55 p.m., Chair Martinez-Montes adjourned the meeting to the next Regular Meeting on
January 28, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. via teleconference.
____________________________________
Janelle Palermo, Secretary
4/22/2021 HRC Page 7 of 20
Page 1 | Human Relations Commission Minutes January 28, 2021
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE
HUMAN REL ATIONS COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA
January 28, 2021 Via Teleconference
6:00 p.m.
Pursuant to the Governor of the State of California's Executive Order N-29-20, and in the interest
of public health and safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, members of the Human Relations
Commission and staff participated in this meeting via teleconference. All votes were taken by roll
call.
CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the Human Relations Commission of the City of Chula Vista was called to
order at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall, Building A, located at 276 Fourth Avenue, Chula Vista,
California and by teleconference.
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Commissioners: Baber, Felix, Godinez, Gutierrez (left at 8:32
p.m.), Kean-Ayub, Lake, Medina, Ratner, Vice Chair Branch and
Chair Martinez-Montes
ABSENT: None
ALSO PRESENT: Director of Human Resources Chase, Human Resources Manager
Tomlinson, Marketing and Communications Manager Steinberger,
City Attorney Googins, Chief of Police Kennedy, Police Captain
Collum, Police Captain Thunberg, Police Captain Redmond,
Senior Librarian Ysla, Librarian II Cabrera, and Secretary Palermo
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Chair Martinez-Montes called for a two-minute pause to allow members of the public to submit
any final electronic public comments. Secretary Palermo announced that 13 electronic comments
had been received and no comments had been received via email.
The following public comments were submitted electronically:
The following members of the public submitted electronic comments in opposition of Item 2;
Police Use of License Plate Readers:
▪ Norell Martinez, Chula Vista resident
▪ Brenda Aguirre, Chula Vista resident
▪ Kathy Hardy, Chula Vista resident
▪ Margaret Baker, Chula Vista resident
▪ Jerilyn Brown, Chula Vista resident
4/22/2021 HRC Page 8 of 20
Page 2 | Human Relations Commission Minutes January 28, 2021
▪ Tama Becker Varano, Chula Vista resident
▪ David Harris, Chula Vista resident
▪ Lois Klepin, Chula Vista resident
▪ Harriet Baber, Chula Vista resident
▪ Nan Kar, Chula Vista resident
The following members of the public submitted electronic comments regarding Item 5, asking
for voice comments during Council Meetings:
▪ Jerilyn Brown, Chula Vista resident
▪ Tama Becker Varano, Chula Vista resident
▪ Brenda Aguirre, Chula Vista resident
PRESENTATIONS
1. PRESENTATION FROM STAFF ON THE ACTIONS TAKEN BY THE CITY OF
CHULA VISTA IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19
Marketing and Communications Manager Steinberger gave a presentation on the item.
Chair Martinez-Montes opened the public hearing and called for a two-minute pause to allow
members of the public to submit any final electronic comments on the item. Secretary Palermo
announced that no electronic comments had been received and no comments had been received
via email.
There being no members of the public who wished to submit a comment, Chair Martinez-Montes
closed the public hearing.
ACTION ITEMS
2. QUARTERLY UPDATE FROM POLICE DEPARTMENT
• DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING LICENSE PLATE
READER PROGRAM
Chief of Police Kennedy, Police Captain Collum, Police Captain Thunberg, and Police Captain
Redmond gave a presentation on this item.
Chair Martinez-Montes called for a two-minute pause to allow members of the public to submit
electronic comments on the item. Secretary Palermo announced that 12 electronic comments had
been received and no comments had been received via email.
The following members of the public submitted electronic comments in opposition of Item 2;
Police Use of License Plate Readers:
▪ Norell Martinez, Chula Vista resident
▪ Brenda Aguirre, Chula Vista resident
▪ Kathy Hardy, Chula Vista resident
▪ Margaret Baker, Chula Vista resident
▪ Jerilyn Brown, Chula Vista resident
▪ Tama Becker Varano, Chula Vista resident
4/22/2021 HRC Page 9 of 20
Page 3 | Human Relations Commission Minutes January 28, 2021
▪ David Harris, Chula Vista resident
▪ Lois Klepin, Chula Vista resident
▪ Harriet Baber, Chula Vista resident
▪ Nan Kar, Chula Vista resident
▪ Pedros Rios, Chula Vista resident
▪ Nick Paul, Chula Vista resident
ACTION: Commissioner Medina moved to create an Ad Hoc subcommittee to review
and make suggestions to the Police Department’s automatic license plate
reader report. Chair Martinez-Montes and Commissioners Medina, Felix and
Godinez agreed to join the Ad Hoc subcommittee. Commissioner Felix
seconded the motion, and it carried, by the following roll call vote:
Yes: 9 – Commissioners Baber, Felix, Godinez, Kean-Ayub, Lake, Medina,
Ratner, Vice Chair Branch and Chair Martinez-Montes
Absent: 1 – Commissioner Gutierrez
3. REQUEST FROM LIBRARY STAFF FOR COMMISSION PARTICIPATION IN
BOOK TO ACTION PROGRAM AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING SAME
Senior Librarian Ysla and Librarian II Cabrera gave a presentation on the item.
Chair Martinez-Montes and called for a two-minute pause to allow members of the public to
submit electronic comments on the item. Secretary Palermo announced that no electronic
comments had been received and no comments had been received via email.
ACTION: Chair Martinez-Montes moved to support the effort and work in partnership
with the library on Book to Action. Commissioner Godinez seconded the
motion, and it carried, by the following roll call vote:
Yes: 9 – Commissioners Baber, Felix, Godinez, Kean-Ayub, Lake, Medina,
Ratner, Vice Chair Branch and Chair Martinez-Montes
Absent: 1 – Commissioner Gutierrez
4. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ON AREAS OF FOCUS FOR THE HUMAN
RELATIONS COMMISSION FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2021
Chair Martinez-Montes called to postpone this item until the next meeting on February 25,
2021.
5. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING THE EXPANSION OF
OPPORTUNITIES FOR PUBLIC INPUT AT COUNCIL MEETINGS
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Page 4 | Human Relations Commission Minutes January 28, 2021
Chair Martinez-Montes called for a two-minute pause to allow members of the public to
submit electronic comments on the item. Secretary Palermo announced that 5 electronic
comments had been received and no comments had been received via email.
The following members of the public submitted electronic comments regarding Item 5, asking
for voice comments during Council Meetings:
▪ Jerilyn Brown, Chula Vista resident
▪ Tama Becker Varano, Chula Vista resident
▪ Brenda Aguirre, Chula Vista resident
▪ Pedro Rios, Chula Vista resident
▪ Margaret Baker, Chula Vista resident
ACTION: Vice Chair Branch moved to adopt a minutes resolution urging the City Council
to implement as soon as possible a system that allows for oral communications at
City Council meetings with consideration of all available options. Commissioner
Lake seconded the motion, and it carried, by the following roll call vote:
Yes: 9 – Commissioners Baber, Felix, Godinez, Kean-Ayub, Lake, Medina,
Ratner, Vice Chair Branch and Chair Martinez-Montes
Absent: 1 – Commissioner Gutierrez
6. DISCUSSION AND ACTION, INCLUDING UPDATES FROM, AND/OR
FORMATION OF, AD HOC COMMITTEES, ON EVENTS/ACTIVITIES FOR HRC
PARTICIPATION
Chair Martinez-Montes called to postpone this item until the next meeting on February 25,
2021.
OTHER BUSINESS
7. STAFF COMMENTS
Director of Human Resources Chase thanked the commission for letting her share her
story about Kevin Powell and how license plate readers helped authorities locate the
suspect in his death. She also shared that vaccines for the 65 and over age group, as well
as eligible professionals, will be given out at the County as early as January 30, 2021.
8. CHAIR’S COMMENTS
Chair Martinez-Montes stated that the year 2020 was a difficult year and the start of 2021
has proven to be just as difficult but there is a light at the end of the tunnel. She also
stated that she’d like to spend time at the next meeting to create a plan of engagement to
be in the community as much as possible.
9. COMMISSIONERS’ COMMENTS
Commissioner Lake thanked staff for staying so late and acknowledged Courtney’s
comments about the loss of Kevin Powell.
4/22/2021 HRC Page 11 of 20
Page 5 | Human Relations Commission Minutes January 28, 2021
ADJOURNMENT
At 9:34 p.m., Chair Martinez-Montes adjourned the meeting to the next Regular Meeting on
February 25, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. via teleconference.
____________________________________
Janelle Palermo, Secretary
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Page 1 | Human Relations Commission Minutes March 25, 2021
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE
HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA
March 25, 2021 Via Teleconference
6:00 p.m.
Pursuant to the Governor of the State of California's Executive Order N-29-20, and in the interest
of public health and safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, members of the Human Relations
Commission and staff participated in this meeting via teleconference. All votes were taken by roll
call.
CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the Human Relations Commission of the City of Chula Vista was called to
order at 6:02 p.m. via teleconference.
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Commissioners Baber, Felix, Godinez, Gutierrez, Kean-Ayub,
Lake, Medina, Ratner and Vice Chair Branch
ABSENT: Chair Martinez-Montes
ALSO PRESENT: Director of Human Resources/Risk Management Chase, Human
Resources Manager Tomlinson, Marketing and Communications
Manager Steinberger, City Attorney Googins, Secretary Gonzalez,
and Secretary Palermo
CONSENT CALENDAR
Vice Chair Branch called for a two-minute pause to allow members of the public to submit any
final electronic comments on items on the consent calendar. Secretary Palermo announced that 3
electronic comments had been received and no comments had been received via email.
Part of item 1, approve the minutes of October 22, 2020 and January 28, 2021, was removed
from the Consent Calendar at the request of the Commissioners.
1. Approve the minutes of the February 25, 2021 Joint Special meeting of the Healthy
Chula Vista Advisory Board and Human Relations Commission
Staff recommendation: Commission approve the minutes.
2. Request Forms from Commissioners Baber and Felix requesting an excused absence
from the February 25, 2021 meeting
4/22/2021 HRC Page 13 of 20
Page 2 | Human Relations Commission Minutes March 25, 2021
Staff recommendation: Commission vote to excuse absences.
ACTION: Commissioner Gutierrez moved to approve the minutes of October 22,
2020 and January 28, 2021 in addition to excusing Commissioners Baber
and Felix’ absence from the March 25, 2021 commission meeting.
Commissioner Branch seconded the motion, and it carried, by the
following roll call vote:
Yes: 9 – Commissioner Baber, Felix, Godinez, Gutierrez, Kean-Ayub,
Lake, Medina, Ratner and Vice Chair Branch
No: 0
Abstain: 0
ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR
Part of item 1, approve the minutes of October 22, 2020 and January 28, 2021, was removed
from the Consent Calendar at the request of the Commissioners.
ACTION: Commissioner Gutierrez moved to remove the approval of the minutes of
the October 22, 2020 and January 28, 2021 Human Relations Commission
from the consent calendar. Commissioner Branch seconded the motion,
and it carried, by the following roll call vote:
Yes: 9 – Commissioner Baber, Felix, Godinez, Gutierrez, Kean-Ayub,
Lake, Medina, Ratner and Vice Chair Branch
No: 0
Abstain: 0
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Vice Chair Branch called for a two-minute pause to allow members of the public to submit any
final electronic public comments. Secretary Palermo announced that 3 electronic comments had
been received and 0 comments had been received via email.
The following public comments were submitted electronically:
• Grace Sardina submitted a comment regarding the storage of the Christopher Columbus
statue.
• Becky Thimm submitted a comment in opposition of Police Department’s automated
license plate readers.
• Maria Mora submitted a comment in opposition of Police Department’s automated
license plate readers.
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Page 3 | Human Relations Commission Minutes March 25, 2021
PRESENTATION
3. REDISTRICTING UPDATE
Marketing and Communications Manager Steinberger presented on the item.
Vice Chair Branch called for a two-minute pause to allow members of the public to submit
electronic comments on the item. Secretary Palermo announced that 0 electronic comments had
been received and 0 comments had been received via email.
4. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION AD HOC SUBCOMMITTEE REGARDING
LICENSE PLATE READER PROGRAM
Commissioner Medina presented on the status of the Ad Hoc Committee’s content
suggestions for the Police Department’s automated license plate reader report. He also
expressed concerns about the April 7, 2021 Police Department automated license plate
reader community forum. Specifically, concerned about community accessibility issues:
only one workshop, 4:00 p.m. start time, format, language access.
Commissioner Felix agreed with Commissioner Medina’s concerns with accessibility.
Marketing and Communications Manager Steinberger outlined how the Police
Department automated license plate reader community forum will be run and addressed
how accessibility issues can be mitigated. She also indicated they were looking at all
opportunities for input at the listening forum.
There was additional discussion on ways for the Commission to provide further feedback
after the Police Department automated license plate reader community forum.
Vice Chair Branch called for a two-minute pause to allow members of the public to submit
electronic comments on the item. Secretary Palermo announced that 12 electronic comments had
been received and 1 comment had been received via email.
The following members of the public submitted electronic comments in opposition of the Chula
Vista Police Department’s license plate reader program:
▪ Margaret A. Baker
▪ Kathy Hardy
▪ Jerilyn Brown
▪ Brenda Aguirre
▪ Patricia Huffman
▪ Norell Martinez
▪ Pedro Rios
▪ Monica Santos
▪ Denise Harder
▪ Nancy Relaford
▪ Margaret Baker
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Page 4 | Human Relations Commission Minutes March 25, 2021
▪ Tania Calvillo
▪ John Earl
5. COVID-19 UPDATE
Marketing and Communications Manager Steinberger presented on the item.
There was a discussion about the San Diego County being in the red tier, how to schedule a
COVID-19 vaccination appointment, and how the City of Chula Vista is reaching its older
residents with vaccination information.
Vice Chair Branch called for a two-minute pause to allow members of the public to submit
electronic comments on the item. Secretary Palermo announced that 0 electronic comments had
been received and 0 comments had been received via email.
ACTION ITEMS
6. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION IN SUPPORT OF THE ASIAN PACIFIC
ISLANDER COMMUNITY
Marketing and Communications Manager Steinberger reported that the Mayor made a
statement in support of the Asian Pacific Islander community and the Mayor and Council
had a moment of silence at the Council Meeting to remember the lives that were lost.
Commissioner Medina asked that the Human Relations Commission continue to speak in
solidarity on violence related to racial injustice and the LGBTQ immigrant community.
Vice Chair Branch called for a two-minute pause to allow members of the public to submit
electronic comments on the item. Secretary Palermo announced that 0 electronic comments had
been received and 0 comments had been received via email.
ACTION: Commissioner Medina moved to create a subcommittee to either draft a
resolution to submit to City Council or work with the Mayor’s Office to
draft a resolution to submit to City Council in support of the Asian Pacific
Islander Community. Commissioners Medina, Kean-Ayub, Lake and
Gutierrez volunteered to form the subcommittee. Commissioner Godinez
seconded the motion, and it carried, by the following roll call vote:
Yes: 9 – Commissioner Baber, Felix, Godinez, Gutierrez, Kean-Ayub,
Lake, Medina, Ratner and Vice Chair Branch
No: 0
Abstain: 0
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Page 5 | Human Relations Commission Minutes March 25, 2021
7. COMMISSION DISCUSSION REGARDING DATA AND INFORMATION
GATHERING AND SHARING WITHIN THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA
Commissioner Medina presented regarding the scope of the Human Relations
Commission’s work regarding data sharing and surveillance. He asked for the
commission’s recommendation to guide the City in relation to data sharing and
surveillance. He expressed that the City needs an oversight committee to review data
sharing and surveillance.
Commissioner Gutierrez stated that he believes it is not the Human Relations
Commission’s responsibility to monitor data sharing and surveillance but it is the Human
Relations Commission’s responsibility to monitor the community’s reaction to these two
topics.
Commissioner Godinez stated that he liked the idea to have an oversight committee.
Commissioner Felix commented that sharing data with federal immigration agencies is
not in congruence with Chula Vista’s Welcoming City status.
Vice Chair Branch stated her concern for privacy.
Vice Chair Branch called for a two-minute pause to allow members of the public to submit
electronic comments on the item. Secretary Palermo announced that 0 electronic comments had
been received and 0 comments had been received via email.
8. AREAS OF FOCUS FOR THE HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION FOR
CALENDAR YEAR 2021
Vice Chair Branch called to postpone this item until the next meeting on April 22, 2021.
9. DISCUSSION AND ACTION, INCLUDING UPDATES FROM, AND/OR
FORMATION OF AD HOC COMMITTIES ON EVENTS/ACTIVITIES FOR HRC
PARTICIPATION
Commissioner Kean-Ayub updated the Commission that South Bay Pride will be
celebrated on September 11, 2021
Marketing and Communications Manager Steinberger reminded the Commission that
there will be no large City events in the upcoming months. The Harbor Fest and July 4th
events will not be taking place this year due to COVID-19 concerns.
Vice Chair Branch called for a two-minute pause to allow members of the public to submit
electronic comments on the item. Secretary Palermo announced that 0 electronic comments had
been received and 0 comments had been received via email.
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Page 6 | Human Relations Commission Minutes March 25, 2021
OTHER BUSINESS
10. STAFF COMMENTS
Director of Human Resources and Risk Manager Chase stated that in-person City Council
meeting comments will be possible in the coming few weeks. She also stated that an item
regarding the Columbus statue will be placed on the City Council agenda in May.
11. CHAIR’S COMMENTS
None.
12. COMMISSIONERS’/BOARD MEMBERS’ COMMENTS
Commissioner Lake stated that she received her Book to Action book. Commissioner
Medina and Commissioner Lake cosponsored the Impacts of Racial Trauma on Youth
webinar and stated that it was informative.
Commissioner Felix thanked City staff for spreading the word about the COVID-19
vaccine.
Commissioner Medina and Commissioner Kean-Ayub asked that a discussion regarding
the Columbus statue be added to the agenda at the next Commission meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
At 8:06 p.m. Vice Chair Branch adjourned the meeting to the next Regular Meeting on April 22,
2021 at 6:00 p.m. via teleconference.
____________________________________
Janelle Palermo, Secretary
4/22/2021 HRC Page 18 of 20
4/22/2021 HRC Page 19 of 20
4/22/2021 HRC Page 20 of 20
Human Relations Commission
Meeting Time: 04-22-21 18:00
eComments Report
Meetings Meeting
Time
Agenda
Items
Comments Support Oppose Neutral
Human Relations Commission 04-22-21
18:00
16 6 2 0 0
Sentiments for All Meetings
The following graphs display sentiments for comments that have location data. Only locations of users who have commented
will be shown.
Overall Sentiment
Human Relations Commission
04-22-21 18:00
Agenda Name Comments Support Oppose Neutral
3.2. WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS 1 0 0 0
4.1. OVERVIEW OF CHULA VISTA SMART CITY PROGRAMS 2 0 0 0
4.2. QUALITY OF LIFE INDICATORS FOR THE CITY OF CHULA
VISTA
1 0 0 0
6.1. CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING AREAS
OF FOCUS/WORK PROGRAM FOR THE HUMAN RELATIONS
COMMISSION FOR CALENDAR YEAR
2021
2 2 0 0
Sentiments for All Agenda Items
The following graphs display sentiments for comments that have location data. Only locations of users who have commented
will be shown.
Overall Sentiment
Agenda Item: eComments for 3.2. WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
Overall Sentiment
Margaret Baker
Location:
Submitted At: 6:49pm 04-22-21
Not sure if this is the correct agenda item, what how can we see % of grants coming from US DHS?
Agenda Item: eComments for 4.1. OVERVIEW OF CHULA VISTA SMART CITY PROGRAMS
Overall Sentiment
Francis Riley
Location: 91911, Chula Vista
Submitted At: 7:39pm 04-22-21
Why don't you read the ecomment during the meeting?
Margaret Baker
Location:
Submitted At: 7:18pm 04-22-21
South Bay People Power and over 25 immigrant, criminal justice advocacy, civil and human rights, LGBTQ &
faith-based org's are concerned about the lack of independent, community-led oversight & privacy policy
protections as the City moves forward with surveillance tech. Also we would like to know why it is still so
problematic for community members to access city meetings and to provide public comment. These are serious
issues that need to be addressed with the inclusion of groups like ours who are not dominated by the police
department nor accepting funding from Dept of Homeland Securities. How can our groups have a seat at the
table of Smart City planning?
Agenda Item: eComments for 4.2. QUALITY OF LIFE INDICATORS FOR THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA
Overall Sentiment
Margaret Baker
Location:
Submitted At: 6:50pm 04-22-21
I would like to know how much $ comes from US DHS
Agenda Item: eComments for 6.1. CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING AREAS OF FOCUS/WORK
PROGRAM FOR THE HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION FOR CALENDAR YEAR
2021
Overall Sentiment
Kathy Hardy
Location:
Submitted At: 4:30pm 04-22-21
I was so happy with the role played by the Human Relations Commission in acquiring “Welcoming City” statue for
Chula Vista. To be truly welcoming, it is imperative that dialogue and open communication are possible between
members of the community and City officials. In recent months, many have been frustrated by the antiquated
system utilized to discuss CVPD’s use of the ALPR system and to share community concerns about this system
with the Mayor and Council members. I am hopeful that you can continue your work to make our town truly
welcoming by pushing for a user-friendly technology system in our City and opportunities to have open dialogue
about issues that truly matter to many, like the use of ALPR technology.
Margaret Baker
Location:
Submitted At: 1:15pm 04-22-21
We request that HRC include “Review of barriers & best practices for open & effective community access & a
Welcoming environment in City governance” in its work plan for 2021. The community was denied access to
information & the decision-making process regarding the ALPR program which has serious impact on everyone
particularly on often-unrepresented members of our community. The entire process & rush to vote at Tuesday’s
meeting was not reflective of an open & Welcoming City. Despite valiant but last-minute efforts of city staff,
community voices were in effect blocked, ridiculed & ignored. We acknowledge the attempts to host a public
forum, but it was a failure: only 9 people were able to call in, no questions were answered, & community
comments were not translated into Spanish. Numerous community members who attended an outdoor rally prior
to Tuesday’s Council meeting had not been immunized & didn’t feel comfortable entering the building to give their
testimony. For over 3 mos, many concerned community members have been unable to submit eComments, &
even those who have feel frustrated & shut out because the eComments are not read aloud nor counted
accurately by City officials. Our voices have literally been muted!
Please see emails that amplify our request for HRC recommendations to the City to adopt truly “Community-
Friendly” Technology, Messaging, Public Statements by City Officials, Opportunities for Engagement & Dialogue,
& Outreach to Underrepresented Communities. TY