Members Present: Christine Harris - Chair, Dennis Nelson, Marla Madison, Jerry Oliver

BVCOG Staff: Christopher Hamilton

Christine Harris called the meeting to order at 1:10 p.m.

The conference call began with a discussion of representation on the council, representation specifically in terms of race/ethnicity. The committee expressed to have a very balanced council with a broad spectrum of representation. Another aspect examined was consumer representation on the council. At present, Bryan - College Station HSDA and Temple - Killeen HSDA do not have consumer representation on the council.

Ms. Madison stated that they have two consumers who are interested in joining the council. Ms. Madison has mailed applications to the two consumers. It was suggested that for recruitment in the Temple - Killeen area, the provider in the area be contacted to see if they have any suggestions of consumers who may be interested. Mr. Oliver stated that he was introduced to the Planning Council by the Health Department in Waco.

Ms. Harris asked the committee if it was a reasonable goal to have a balanced council by the end of the year, or possibly sooner. The committee will work on recruiting members and having applications submitted.

The question was posed whether an ethnic/racial balance was as critical as other areas of representation. As a follow-up, there was question as to whether DSHS or HRSA has any guidance or requirements regarding ethnic/racial representation on planning councils. Mr. Hamilton will check into this and report back to the council.

It was suggested that someone contact the health department in Temple-Killeen and let them know of the Council's desire to have more consumer representation. They may be able to provide some assistance.

Before the next committee meeting on September 19, committee members will think about who to target and gaps they would like to fill in council representation, think about the time line that was sent in an email from Mr. Hamilton on August 3, and try to recruit new members.

The meeting was adjourned at 1:35 p.m.