Olmsted County announces changes to advisory boards for human services and human rights

Olmsted County is announcing changes to two of its advisory boards, specifically the Human Services Advisory Board (HSAB) and the Human Rights Commission (HRC). These changes aim to enhance the effectiveness of community engagement, aligning with the county’s commitment to continuous improvement.  

Evolution of the Human Services Advisory Board (HSAB) 

The HSAB will undergo a shift from its current structure to a task force model. This new approach will allow volunteers to concentrate efforts on singular, pressing issues identified by the county board and through the county’s strategic plan as well as various community assessments, such as the Olmsted County Resident Survey and the Community Health Needs Assessment.  
 
The task force model provides a focused platform for in-depth exploration of specific human services challenges and development of targeted recommendations.  
 
“The task force model aligns with our commitment to responsiveness and efficiency,” noted Health, Housing, and Human Services Division Administrator James Johnson. “By concentrating efforts on one issue at a time, we can better address the diverse and evolving needs of our community.”  

Human Rights Commission (HRC) integration into One Olmsted and the Community Council 

The HRC will also undergo a transition, with its work integrating into the county’s One Olmsted initiative and the creation of a new Community Council (which will launch in the next few months). One Olmsted shares a similar mission to the HRC, emphasizing diversity, equity, and inclusion. The Community Council will serve as a representative body for the communities we serve and will address issues of public health importance in its initial two years.  
 
As part of its work, the HRC had monitored and reviewed messages left on the county’s Human Rights hotline. With the transition, the One Olmsted team (which is countywide but led by Administration) will assume ownership of the hotline.  
 
“The evolution of the HRC does not diminish our commitment to human rights. The One Olmsted initiative will continue to address potential human rights violations through the county’s Human Rights hotline, ensuring a seamless transition and ongoing support for our community,” stated Olmsted County Human Resources Director Julian Currie.  
 
More information about the county’s Human Rights hotline can be found on the One Olmsted webpage. 

HSAB and HRC transition timeline 

While the transition timelines for the HSAB and HRC may differ, both groups aim to complete these efforts by May 8, 2024. The phased approach ensures a smooth and thoughtful transition for both boards.  

Engagement opportunities for volunteers 

If current volunteers on the HSAB and HRC wish to join another county advisory board or participate in a future human services task force, they are encouraged to indicate their interest. 

Minimal impact on residents and county commissioners 

Residents not directly involved in these advisory boards will experience minimal impact, as the critical work on human services and human rights in Olmsted County will continue. The Olmsted County Board of Commissioners looks forward to receiving guidance and recommendations through the revised human services task force model and Community Council. 
 
“Transitioning the work of both the HSAB and the HRC to a more focused and adaptable model makes sense for the future direction of Olmsted County,” said Olmsted County Administrator Heidi Welsch. “This new model positions us to better learn from our residents and address community needs.”