I. Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 12:10 PM.
II. Roll Call
Commissioners: Chairman George Timberlake, Debra Ferguson, Gene Griffin, Kurt Friedenauer, Pamela Rodriguez and Lisa Jacobs.
Staff: Karrie Rueter and Julie Stremlau.
III. Communications Committee Budget Response Requests
The Communications Committee sent a draft of the budget response to Commission members for review and approval. Chairman Timberlake read the letter to the group and requested comments. Commissioner Griffin stated he would like to add information about recidivism and incorporate data that explains the issues we will experience as a result of this budget.
Commissioner Rodriguez commented that she advocates sending the letter and speaking about these issues but the letter is too long. There was a lengthy discussion on how to break down the letter and what additions should be made. Commissioner Griffin will send specific data information to the committee members for approval to include in the final letter. Commissioner Griffin moved to approve the letter with modifications. Commissioner Friedenauer seconded the motion. All in favor. Motion passed.
IV. JDAI Committee – Statewide Program Coordination and Support Request
The Executive Committee was asked to approve the hiring of a statewide coordinator for JDAI. The Executive Committee members expressed concern that there was no real plan to review. They would like to know the duties of this coordinator and details of where JDAI is headed. It was recommended the JDAI Committee meet before the next full Commission meeting and present their plan for JDAI overall.
V. Planning and Grants – Approval of Gender Specific Grant Awards
Commissioner Jacobs reported the Planning and Grants Committee has not met but will be meeting in the month of April. There are many issues before the committee that need to be addressed. There is approval from the federal government to concentrate on gender-specific issues instead of truancy as previously attempted. Proposals are needed quickly. There are three sites currently working to participate and they are Cook, DuPage and Peoria. It would be best if programming started before September 2010 as this money needs to be expended. Lisa Jacobs explained the budget issues are of concern to the providers. The sites need dollar amounts so they are able to plan.
The Executive Committee would need to approve the proposals, as the next Commission meeting would not be timely. Commissioner Jacobs reported the sites are ready. They need to complete their budgets to finalize their plans for the overall programming.
The Planning and Grants Committee will meet at 12:00 PM on April 26th. The Executive Committee will meet at 1:00 PM on April 26th.
VI. Adjournment
Commissioner Rodriguez motioned to adjourn the meeting. Commissioner Griffin seconded the motion. All in favor, meeting adjourned at 1:14 PM.