What's new with the Human Relations Commission

The Farmington Human Relations Commission is a committee of town government that is responsible for fostering a mutual understanding and respect among all members of the community. Their purpose is to encourage equality of treatment of, and opportunity for, all members of the community, without regard to economic status, race, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, and physical, mental and learning disabilities. The Commission cooperates with governmental and non-governmental agencies and organizations charged with promoting an integrated and diverse community or having like or kindred functions to those of the Commission.
The duties of the Commission include, but are not limited to, acting as a fair hearing body for conflicts arising under the Americans With Disabilities Act, receiving and hearing complaints regarding inequity of treatment or of discrimination in the Town, and assisting in the resolution of interpersonal conflicts of a noncriminal nature
At the most recent Human Relations Commission meeting on November 28th, Nancy Parent, Director of Community Services, indicated that they are currently taking applications for the Farmington Fuel Assistance Program. She also gave an update on Title XIX and Dial a ride--she spoke about the Town's new dial a ride van with improved capabilities for wheelchairs as well as continued efforts by Rep. Demicco to help with ongoing issues with the Department of Social Services Non-Emergency Medical Transportation Program.
Plans are underway for the HRC to work with the Town's Director of Economic Development, Rose Ponte, to host a business breakfast to have a discussion about accessibility with local businesses
Finally, there was an open discussion about relevant ideas for Community Discussion...4 FHS students spoke about diversity programs in the middle school and at FHS and about the impact of social media on students and will be making a presentation to middle school students on December 13th.