HRC minutes 111317 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Once the response to the allegations is received and reviewed, interviews are conducted with the Complainant and then the Complainant's witnesses, then the Respondent and the Respondent's witnesses. Throughout the interview phase, more information is frequently requested or subpoenaed from one or both parties. After interviews and evidence is gathered and analyzed and compared with the Prima Facie case elements for the particular claim. A final interview is conducted with both parties individually to present the evidence and allow them a final opportunity to provide additional evidence for consideration. The Civil Rights Specialist / Investigator makes a recommendation to the Director, and if the evidence fits the Prima Facie elements then a Reasonable Cause Determination would be issued for the case. X. Mr. Goldsmith asked who does the conciliations. 1. Ms. May explained that she as the Investigator is also the Conciliator but treats each process and the information provided during each process separated. She stated that almost all other FHAP agencies she has come in contact with at trainings and meetings also have Investigators doing conciliations. 2. Dr. Stroman asked if Ms. May would do both function s in an ideal world. a. Ms. May stated that the current set -up has not caused any issues and is very common, but ideally having another staff member work on conciliation make the processes absolute separated and potentially less confusing for parties in the complaint, though it has not caused an issue. Y. Ms. Nancy White asked how information about the FHAP is spread. 1. Ms. May stated that the agency has a website, goes to outreach events across the county, and is on resources lists. She stated that a lot of people who file complaints have heard about the agency from another person through word -of- mouth. 2. Ms. White stated that she would like to see the board help in getting the word out to let residents know they can file Fair Housing complaints. 3. Ms. Hampton stated that the LEP Specialist, Ms. Valeiko, also organizes outreach events for the agency. She also mentioned particular communities in the county including Burmese, Karen, and Spanish that the agency provides translated materials for. She encouraged the HRC to let the agency know about opportunities for outreach going forward and providing enhancement strategies. Z. Ms. Hampton excused herself from the meeting. V. Board Structure and Role Consideration A. Dr. Stroman stated that there are seats for 18 members 1. Ms. May stated that Ms. Jessica Aguilar is no longer on the board, so there are 13 seats filled. 2. Dr. Stroman encouraged members to ask their neighbors and colleagues to apply. B. Orientation 1. Dr. Stroman mentioned a section in the policies and procedures regarding orientation and stated she would work with Ms. May to bring more information back. 2. Ms. May stated that the packets brought forward in October were the first attempt at an orientation and could certainly be refined. 7