4/26/2001 AFFORDABLE HOUSING Minutes

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MASHPEE AFFIRMATIVE ACTION MEETING APRIL 25, 2001 Present: Jan Strickland, Norma Kumin, Melbourne Cragwell, Myrna Nuey, Marita Scott, Marilyn Farren. Guests: Gordon Green, Stephanie Tobey-Roderick, Vickie Wakanabo, Cheryl Frye, Louise Patrick. Chairman Jan S. opened the meeting at 4:30 p.m. at Mashpee Town Hall. Mary Gelsthorpe was introduced as the new Recording Secretary. Jan S. outlined the Committee's activities for Gordon Green who is applying for the vacancy on the Committee. The Committee handles discrimination and harassment issues. The Committee supports Mashpee as "no place for hate," and their goal is to sponsor three community events per year. Deborah Saldana also expressed interest in joining the Committee. Stephanie Roderick and Cheryl Frye from the Mashpee Wampanoag Education Committee spoke about their work at the high school. They volunteer every Tuesday and Thursday 9:30 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. to talk one-on-one with students, teachers, and administration. They describe their role as mediating for everyone at the high school. The Mashpee Wampanoag Education Committee is hosting an open hearing to listen to concerns of parents and students on Saturday, April 28, in the Quashnet School Cafeteria. There will be guest speakers to cover issues and answer questions. Jan Strickland was invited to speak. Jan and Melbourne plan to attend and give their support. Jan S. noted that this is part of the rebuilding of communication in the community. Myrna N. commended these volunteers for their efforts. There are two interested candidates to fill the openings on the Committee. Norma K. suggested having alternates. Gordon Green spoke about his background and qualifications to make a contribution on the Committee. He is a certified contractor and is familiar with the Affirmative Action Policy. The Committee moved to draft a letter to the Board of Selectmen recommending Gordon Green for the Committee. (Jan S. moved; Myrna N. seconded). Unanimous. The Committee will recommend Deborah Saldana as an alternate. Marita will bring copies of the Open Meeting Law to the next meeting. Melbourne C. endorses growth with diversity in the community, and getting our children involved. Myrna N. is applying for grants for educational programs for adults and children. There is a Native American Book of grants which she is using as a resource.