11-02-2023 MinutesHUMAN RELATIONS DIVERSITY
BOARD
1 N. Bluford Avenue
Ocoee, Florida
AN MR4.9
The meeting was called to order by Chair Moyer at 6:19 p.m. in the Commission Chambers of City Hall
located at 1 N. Bluford Avenue, Ocoee.
Chair Moyer requested the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag be led by Vice -Chair Maxwell, followed by
a moment of personal reflection. Recording Clerk Torres performed roll Gall and declared a quorum
present.
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Guest(s): Commissioner Kennedy,Tom Mottlaw, Tim Levell, and Tom Lowery
Chair Moyer began the meeting by prioritizing public comments right after attendance. He introduced
the idea of having a theme for each meeting, and for this session, he proposed that the theme be
centered around Veterans Day. Following this, he invited his two guest speakers to address the
assembly.
The first speaker, Tom Lowery of American Legion Post 63, presented a video focusing on the
concerning suicide rates among veterans. He expressed a deep commitment to raising awareness and
shared compelling statistics demonstrating the organization's successful efforts in preventing suicides.
Mr. Lowery also informed the audience about an upcoming Challenge 22 event in Winter Garden on
November 11.
Additionally, Tom Mottlawof American Legion Post 109, emphasized the importance of involving more
youth in these efforts.
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Member Singh. Motion carried unanimously.
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in further discussions on thowitatter.
Member Cease presented the Facebook post he had written, capturing the board's attention. Vice -
Chair Maxwell, in response, expressed his keen interest in involving elderly individuals and those less
technologically proficient in the board's meetings, aiming to gather their valuable recommendations to
present to the commission.
%'-.#hair Moyer suggested a proactive approach, proposing that they reach out to members of local
Homeowners' Associations (HOAs) to join their discussions and share their perspectives. This
prompted a discussion among the board members who shared their insights on how to foster a mor4
�tngaged and involved community.
Chair Moyer urged the acceleration of DEI training to ensure that all board members receive this
important training promptly. Vice -Chair Maxwell voiced his concerns and concurred that DEI training
would be advantageous for the entire board.
Public Comment - Brad Lomneck, Ocoee resident, expressed his satisfaction with the board's current
direction. However, he also suggested some modifications to the Facebook post presented by Member
Cease and provided the board with valuable ideas on how to demonstrate their progress to the City as
they embark on community involvement efforts.
Motion carried unammousiv.
Chair Moyer expressed a desire for each meeting to be distinguished by a specific theme. The
upcoming meeting has been designated with the theme "History." During discussions, Member
Cummings enthusiastically revealed that her family boasts a remarkable five generations with roots
deeply embedded in Ocoee. To enrich the meeting, she has graciously volunteered to extend an
invitation to her mother, who will share insights and stories reflective of Ocoee's history.
• Veteran's Day Ceremony - November 9th
• Movie in the Park December 1st
• Jolly Jamboree and Dog Parade - December 9th
• MLK Parade and Event January 15th
• Black History Essay Contest
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HRDB Meeting
November 2, 2023
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the growth and progress of the HRDB. In addition, he announced the forthcoming addition of a new
member to the board.
Brad Lomneck, Ocoee resident, provided positive feedback, emphasizing the importance of the
HRDB's involvement in event recommendations and increased activity. He commended their efforts,
acknowledging the board's excellent work.
Commissioner Aart shared insights on the transformative city improvements that are shaping a new
vision for the City of Ocoee. He emphasized the significance of recognizing both the past and future,
expressing support for training initiatives. He looks forward to endorsing the HRDB at the upcoming
commission meeting.
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Recording Clerk
APPROVED and DATED:
chairperson