TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager to execute an agreement with the National Conference for Community and Justice of Southern California to provide Human Dignity Program Services for a period of one year in an amount not to exceed $93,000. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
In September 1999, the City Council authorized resources to develop a Human Dignity Program (Program). On December 13, 1999, a Human Dignity Program Officer was hired to implement the Program. Key elements of the Program include a Hate Crime Response Team, an Inter-group Conflict Resolution Team and diversity training to promote community harmony and mutual acceptance.
In February 2000, the City of Long Beach entered into an agreement with The National Conference for Community and Justice of Southern California (NCCJ) to provide training for Hate Crime Response Team members, conduct community awareness events, and other outreach activities to promote the Program. The accomplishments of NCCJ include facilitating dialogues at Cabrillo and Jordan High Schools after tension on and around the campuses, and providing valuable assistance with the Youth and Gang Violence Prevention Task Force. The agreement with NCCJ expired on January 31, 2006. City Council approval is requested to authorize a one-year agreement from February 1, 2006 through January 31, 2007.
Through the Program, law enforcement, governmental institutions, the religious community, the educational community, grass roots organizations, and community and neighborhood associations are networked to share resources and send a citywide message of tolerance. Presentations have been made throughout the City and surrounding areas. By utilizing NCCJ, extensive community human relations outreach and education will continue to be conducted, resulting in further cultural acceptance and awareness.
The effectiveness of the Program is monitored through victim assistance surveys, community surveys and by increased awareness of what constitutes a hate crime.
Individuals and organizations report that the Program has proven to be a valuable resource for the citizens of Long Beach in ongoing efforts to eliminate hate crimes and ensure that visitors and residents are treated with dignity and respect. The City has gained local, state and national recognition for the Program. The Program is especially proud of its precedent-setting partnership with the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD). Program staff and the LBPD work closely to identify, report and provide resources to victims of hate crimes and bias incidents. In an effort to coordinate information, the LBPD has revised their standard forms and developed support documents that include Program components. With a well-deserved reputation as a leader in the human relations field, NCCJ has been vital to the Program's efforts. The agreement with NCCJ will continue to allow the City to benefit from their experience.
This letter was reviewed by Assistant City Attorney Michael J. Mais and Budget Management Officer David Wodynski on May 2,2006.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on May 9, 2006, to ensure the continuation of NCCJ services.
FISCAL IMPACT
The agreement with NCCJ is $93,000 for a one-year period. This represents the same level of funding as last year's agreement. Funds are budgeted in the General Fund (GP) in the City Manager Department (CM).
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
NAME |
APPROVED: |
TITLE |
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GERALD R. MILLER |
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CITY MANAGER |