HomeMy WebLinkAboutA002 - Discussion on modifications to Municipal Code Chapter 14: Human RelationsITEM #:2
DEPT:CMO
November 18, 2025
Staff Report
DISCUSSION ON MODIFICATIONS TO MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 14: HUMAN
RELATIONS
BACKGROUND:
In 2019, the Ames Human Relations Commission (AHRC) stopped investigating civil rights
complaints and switched to contracting with the Iowa Office of Civil Rights (IOCR) to
investigate such claims. Since that significant shift in its function, AHRC has been exploring its
evolving mission and priorities.
The AHRC would like the Council to consider several changes to Municipal Code Chapter 14:
Human Relations to better align the code with its current activities and objectives.
Chapter 14 was most recently amended in 2024, when the City Council increased AHRC from
five to seven members. This change was prompted by AHRC's increased outreach activities in
the community. In June 2024, a strategic planning retreat was held with the expanded
membership. The discussion initially focused on updates to the strategic plan. However, the
conversation shifted as commissioners identified a lack of alignment between Chapter
14's description of AHRC's powers and duties and the role AHRC has shifted towards
as it increases outreach and presence in the community.
Over the past year, AHRC has researched examples of language from the codes of peer
cities in Iowa, discussing desired elements to emulate. The Commission has worked on
proposed revisions that it would like Council to consider.
A summary of the changes the Commission would like to see include:
1. Sec. 14.1, "Purpose of Chapter"
Clarify that discriminatory practices are prohibited.
Correct a typographical error by adding a missing word.
Update the Iowa Civil Rights Commission to reflect its recent renaming as the Iowa
Office of Civil Rights.
2. Sec. 14.5, "Powers and Duties"
Revise the description of Commission's powers and duties to use more accessible language
and to emphasize the focus on community outreach and engagement.
The revision proposed by the Commission, but not yet reviewed by City Attorney, would read
as:
"The Commission shall have the following powers and duties:
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1. To facilitate coordination and connection among community groups to amplify the impact
of their efforts toward ending discrimination and reducing inequality in the community.
2. To collaborate with organizations and individuals in the community to plan and
participate in events that connect various populations through celebration of culture and
inclusion.
3. To listen to community members and provide access to resources that may help resolve
discrimination complaints, including connecting residents with the Iowa Office of Civil
Rights when enforcement action may be needed.
4. To gather information and provide an annual report to the City Council about the status
of human rights in the community and the commission’s activities promoting belonging
among various populations recognized in the community.
5. To recommend policies and programs that promote human rights of persons and groups
in the community to the mayor and City Council.
6. To manage any city funds, donations, or grants given to the commission for promoting
the purposes of this chapter."
OPTIONS:
If the Council is supportive of considering the Commission's recommendations, it
would be appropriate for the Council to make a motion directing the City Attorney to
draft proposed modifications to Chapter 14 of the Municipal Code.
STAFF COMMENTS:
City Staff agrees with the Commission that modifications would be appropriate and
beneficial to align the Municipal Code language with the Commission's current
activities.
ATTACHMENT(S):
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