P-0490 - Boards and Commissions Appointments and Orientation Process Policy 02-21-2006

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drive toward adopting a county wide Civil Rights Ordinance, which culminated on June 6, 1995, when the Orange County Civil Rights Ordinance was enacted. "The Ordinance provided an avenue for traditionally disenfranchised Orange County residents - those who are discriminated against because of their race, color, national origin, age, gender, or disability - to complain about discriminatory treatment and, in the majority of cases, to reach a satisfactory resolution of their complaints. Thus, the people of Orange County had local legislation to safeguard the things that are essential to most Americans: their homes and their jobs. "The recent court decision declaring unconstitutional the employment provisions of the Orange County Civil Rights Ordinance has seriously compromised the Ordinance's integrity, and has compromised the HRC's ability to fulfill its charge to promote harmonious relations through hearings and due process of law. The majority of discrimination complaints received by the Orange County Human Rights and Relations Department are employment-related. Because of the court order, the Department is now prohibited from providing assistance to the majority. of those who call for help: Orange County residents, and those who work in Orange County, who have employment discrimination complaints. "If the proposed bill is enacted, Orange County will be able to re-enact the employment provisions of its Ordinance, and the Human Rights and Relations Department will once again be able to assist those who believe that their employer has discriminated against them. "For these reasons, we, the members of the Orange County Human Relations Commission, urge the Orange County Board of Commissioners to include in its legislative packet the proposed bill authorizing cities and counties in North Carolina with populations of 100,000 to enact ordinances prohibiting discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations." Ann McPherson urged the County Commissioners to support this legislation. She said that she was proud of the Commissioners because they seek progress for Orange County. Commissioner Carey pointed out that this item was a part of the legislative goals package and that the Commissioners are appealing the court decision on the civil rights ordinance. A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Carey to approve the proposed legislative package with the changes and recommendations made by the Commissioners. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 8. ITEMS FOR DECISION -CONSENT AGENDA A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Gordon to approve those items on the consent agenda as stated below: a. Motor Vehicle Property Tax Refunds The Board adopted a refund resolution for eight property tax refund requests amounting to $618.64, which is incorporated herein by reference. b. Budget Amendment #7 The Board approved a budget ordinance amendment for the current fiscal year, which is incorporated herein by reference. c. CJPP Continuation Grant Application The Board approved a grant proposal to continue implementation of the Criminal Justice Partnership Program for Orange and Chatham counties. d. Lease Renewal: Highway 57 Solid Waste Convenience Center This item was removed and placed at the end of the consent agenda for separate 49 consideration. 5o a1 e. Amendment to Resolution for Appointment and Orientation Process for Boards and 51 ommissions as required by OWASA