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2 <br /> <br />Public Safety <br /> <br /> Police Chief Tim Longo said we need to be able to better prepare for the refugee <br />population and be part of the decision making process. <br /> <br /> Deputy Fire Chief Charles Werner said that the Fire Department needs to be part <br />of the program. He said it is important that smoke detectors be in the homes of refugees <br />and that they be informed about their purpose. He said translation is also a major issue, <br />and suggested that a committee be formed to look at that issue. <br /> <br /> Dr. Brown suggested exploring providing free cell phones to people who can be <br />of assistance when situations arise. He said he will arrange a committee meeting to <br />discuss the issue of translators. <br /> <br /> Mr. Jim Tolbert, Director of Neighborhood Development Services, said that the <br />refugees need to be made aware of housing code issues such as having too many people <br />living in one house. He said better communication is needed between his office, IRC and <br />the refugees. <br /> <br />Ms. Donovan said that City staff should contact IRC about any issues that arise. <br /> <br />Social Services <br /> <br /> Mr. Robert Cox, Director of Socials Services, said that refugees, like other <br />residents of the City, are eligible for social service benefits, but noted that these services <br />are only provide for a limited time. He said the hope is that the refugees can advance <br />enough to become self-sufficient, but expressed concern about what happens if they do <br />not and their benefits run out. He said that is the biggest issue. Mr. Cox explained that <br />while the Department receives funds for refugee assistance, it is a lump sum amount and <br />is not determined by the actual number of refugees being served. <br /> <br /> Mr. Lynch said again that we need to document the cost and need IRC to help <br />with that effort. <br /> <br /> Ms. Donovan said that federal funding has plummeted. She said that the <br />department in charge is Immigration Services of the Department of Health and Human <br />Services. <br /> <br /> Dr. Brown listed the following next steps: form a translation committee; better <br />coordination between IRC and City departments; and provide assistance to the Schools <br />with the issue. <br /> <br />The meeting was adjourned. <br /> <br />President Clerk <br /> <br /> <br />