Chapter 2.25
ALBANY HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION

Sections:

2.25.000    Definitions.

2.25.005    Established.

2.25.010    Purpose.

2.25.020    Criteria to be considered for appointment.

2.25.030    Term of office and initial appointment.

2.25.040    Duties and responsibilities.

2.25.050    Procedures.

2.25.000 Definitions.

The following words and phrases, whenever used in this chapter, shall be constructed as defined in this section:

(1) “Acceptance” means to regard all persons from all walks of life with support and inclusion.

(2) “Accessibility” means the quality of being usable, reachable, and obtainable regardless of age, ability, or language.

(3) “Dignity” means to be treated with respect and to treat others with respect.

(4) “Diversity” means the inclusion of individuals with different backgrounds including but not limited to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender expression, national origin, marital status, age, ability, and socioeconomic background.

(5) “Equity” means to deal fairly and justly with all concerned.

(6) “Inclusion” means to include and integrate all persons into activities, organizational processes, and political processes, including those who are disadvantaged, have suffered discrimination, or are living with disabilities. (Ord. 5957 § 1, 2021).

2.25.005 Established.

There is hereby established a Human Relations Commission for the City of Albany which will consist of seven members. Each councilor and the mayor will appoint one member to the commission; the appointment will then be ratified by the city council. (Ord. 5957 § 1, 2021; Ord. 5898 § 1, 2017; Ord. 5866 § 1, 2016; Ord. 5671 § 1, 2007; Ord. 5665 § 1, 2007).

2.25.010 Purpose.

To foster a city that is stable, safe, and just, the Human Relations Commission is established by the Albany City Council. The commission is established to strengthen and celebrate every resident of Albany by being committed to the philosophy of acceptance, inclusion, equal opportunity accessibility, dignity, and fair treatment for all. (Ord. 5957 § 1, 2021; Ord. 5898 § 1, 2017; Ord. 5866 § 1, 2016; Ord. 5671 § 1, 2007; Ord. 5665 § 1, 2007).

2.25.020 Criteria to be considered for appointment.

It is expected that each appointee will be committed to the purpose of the Human Relations Commission as stated in AMC 2.25.010. The city council will endeavor to appoint commissioners who represent a cross-section of the entire community. Appointees must reside within the Albany City limits. (Ord. 5957 § 1, 2021; Ord. 5898 § 1, 2017; Ord. 5866 § 1, 2016; Ord. 5671 § 1, 2007; Ord. 5665 § 1, 2007).

2.25.030 Term of office and initial appointment.

The initial membership of the Human Relations Commission will be established by the mayor and council. Three of the initially appointed members will serve a three-year term, two of the initially appointed members will serve a two-year term, and two of the initially appointed members will serve for a one-year term. Initial terms of appointment will be staggered according to the alphabetical order of the appointee’s surname, beginning with three-year terms for those closest to the beginning of the alphabet. Thereafter, as the terms expire, the mayor and each councilor will appoint replacement members for three-year terms. Members will serve without compensation. All members of the Human Relations Commission will serve at the pleasure of the council and may be removed from their position by the council at any time without cause. Any vacancies in the commission will be filled through appointment by the appropriate councilor and ratification by the city council. (Ord. 5957 § 1, 2021; Ord. 5898 § 1, 2017; Ord. 5866 § 1, 2016; Ord. 5671 § 1, 2007; Ord. 5665 § 1, 2007).

2.25.040 Duties and responsibilities.

The Human Relations Commission will meet periodically in public sessions at dates, times, and places as may be established by the commission. The commission will have the duty to make recommendations to the city council and the city manager. In formulating its recommendations, the Human Relations Commission will strive for actions that lead to positive and respectful relations committing to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the city. It is created to recommend and promote activities, programs, ordinances, expenditures, and other appropriate governmental activities that will serve to maintain respectful interactions within Albany. The Human Relations Commission will work to ensure that historically marginalized and underrepresented people and communities in Albany have equal access to City programs and services, and representation in City decision making. The Human Relations Commission will address concerns and complaints about discrimination through education and available community resources. The duties of the Human Relations Commission may be revised at any time, after public notice, by resolution. (Ord. 5957 § 1, 2021; Ord. 5898 § 1, 2017; Ord. 5866 § 1, 2016; Ord. 5671 § 1, 2007; Ord. 5665 § 1, 2007).

2.25.050 Procedures.

The Human Relations Commission will elect a chair and a vice chair. A majority of the members will constitute a quorum. The commission will keep a journal of its proceedings, which will be kept on file in the office of the city recorder. (Ord. 5957 § 1, 2021; Ord. 5898 § 1, 2017; Ord. 5866 § 1, 2016; Ord. 5671 § 1, 2007).