Liz Hoppman, Minot

Kudos to ALL who spoke regarding proposed changes to the human relations committee ordinance at the council meeting on May 1, 2023. It is good to see people getting involved.

The human relations ordinance has been inactive for quite a few years. I see no problem reactivating and updating this ordinance. I agree with the council member who said this process should be given the time and attention necessary to get it right. I see a few problems with the proposed revision.

Can the proposed committee of 7 properly reflect the diversity of the community, with respect to the multiple categories included in the rewrite or with respect to the actual demographics of the city’s population? In my opinion, no.

The current ordinance is focused on solving problems community-wide rather than the proposed revision which appears to focus more on an individual basis. For example, the rewrite section 2-213-(d)Powers and Duties: To assist aggrieved individuals by offering information and guidance. If an individual has a legitimate discrimination issue that person should pursue legal or other remedies that are available to them. The human relations committee and the city should not be in the business of giving individuals legal advice.

When changes are made to any ordinance, adequate time and attention, including media attention, should be given so that citizens understand the ramifications of changes and have time to respond. Two meetings within a 2-week time frame are definitely not adequate for ordinance changes.

Please continue to make your voices heard.