Dormont Human Relations Commission Meeting – February 17, 2026

The Dormont Human Relations Commission (BDHRC) held its regular meeting on February 17, 2026, at 7:00 PM. Commissioners present: Joanna (chair), Rosa (via Zoom), Opal, Lisa, and Bow. The meeting focused on member recruitment, outreach, event planning (Porchmont, Pride, business training), and coordination with Borough Council.

Consent Calendar

• Approval of January 2026 Minutes: Motion made by Opal, seconded by Lisa; passed unanimously.

Public Comments & Testimony

• No public comments were offered; the agenda included a placeholder for future public participation.

Discussion Items

• Borough Council Report: Joanna noted that Kate (existing liaison) and new council member Josh have been assigned to the HRC. Josh expressed interest in the commission’s update. Joanna clarified that future council meeting attendance should be observational rather than presenting a formal report.
• New Member Applications/Recruitment: Melinda (borough staff) reported that no new applications have been received for the HRC vacancy; one application was received for the Shade Tree Commission. Commissioners agreed to actively network and reach out to potential applicants, including Lisa Over. The application is available online or in paper at the borough office.
• Newsletter/Social Media: Rosa noted that the spring 2025 newsletter had incorrect meeting time (6 PM instead of 7 PM). Melinda explained that due to personnel changes (Beth no longer employed) the newsletter is on hold and may shift to a trimester schedule. Social media: Rosa committed to one post per month, with more activity around Porchmont. A shared spreadsheet was introduced for planning.
• Business Training Update (Opal): Opal proposed a training session focused on microaggressions rather than just anti-discrimination law, to foster welcoming workplaces. Rosa offered support. They will meet to develop content. Melinda advised coordinating with Borough Council and the Dormont Community Development Corporation (DCDC) before proceeding. Commissioners discussed potential collaboration with the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) for resources.
• Pride Event Update (Opal): Opal will contact DCDC regarding booth logistics. The commission’s role is to be socially present.
• Porchmont Update (Joanna): Date options discussed: August 29, September 12, or September 26, 2026. September 12 coincides with Rosh Hashanah; commissioners agreed to consult community members. September 26 may be too dark (sunset ~7:10 PM). A planning session (happy hour) will be scheduled via Doodle poll. Budget: $2,500 for all of 2026; last year spent about $1,000 on Porchmont. Commissioners shared ideas: liked homemade signs, visiting hosts, sidewalk chalk, paper invitations; wants included t-shirts (possibly through Cat Man Do), a theme (e.g., 90s), and costumes.
• New Business: None.

Key Outcomes

• Minutes approved unanimously.
• Member recruitment: Commissioners will individually reach out to potential applicants within two weeks; check-in before next meeting.
• Newsletter: On hold; Melinda to update when timeline is clearer.
• Social media: Rosa to draft monthly posts; ideas to be shared in the spreadsheet.
• Business training: Opal and Rosa will meet to develop a microaggressions workshop; will present proposal at next meeting after coordinating with council.
• Pride: Opal to contact DCDC; no further action.
• Porchmont: Date decision deferred to next meeting (March 2026) pending community input on Rosh Hashanah. Planning session to be arranged. Budget discussions postponed until cost estimates are available.
• Next meeting: Scheduled for March 2026 (third Tuesday, 7:00 PM).