The meeting was called to order at 4:08 p.m.

Legislator Pinto made a motion to approve the minutes of October 19, 1998 and was seconded by Legislator Stewart-Cousins. The motion was carried by a vote of 4-0.

Robin Bikkall explained that there is a lack of information and communication throughout the Hispanic Community about the services that are available to them and how to use the services that exist. The Hispanic Advisory Board (HAB) will try to determine the needs of the Hispanic Community, for example dealing with the government is an important issue. Many of these individuals come from other countries and they are uncomfortable dealing with the government. There is a real education process that has to go on.

Legislator Young stated that the Committee on Minority Affairs will be addressing the issue of the services provided by the County for the Spanish – Speaking Community, at their meeting on November 16, 1998. Bill Randolph will be making a presentation. Legislator Young invited Ms. Bikkall to attend the meeting.

Legislator Stewart-Cousins made a motion to approve the resolution confirming the appointment of Robin Bikkall as a member of the Hispanic Advisory Board, and was seconded by Legislator Young. The motion was carried by a vote of 4-0.

Mr. Bernard stated that after the HAB determines what the needs are for the Hispanic Community, then they would like the Board of Legislators (BOL) assistance in developing those programs.

Legislator Young suggested to Mr. Bernard that the HAB communicate to the BOL, over the next few weeks, what their needs are, so that the BOL can appropriate the money, since they are currently in the budget process.

Legislator Young invited Mr. Bernard to the meeting of the Committee on Minority Affairs on November 16, 1998 where they will be discussing the services that the County provides to the Spanish – Speaking community.

Legislator Stewart-Cousins made a motion to approve the resolution confirming the appointment of Carlos Bernard and was seconded by Legislator Young. The motion was carried by a vote of 4-0.

Ms. Alcantara-Vieira stated that she feels the HAB is a dynamic group of people, she is really impressed. They attend regularly and seem dedicated, and adamant about making a difference in the County. Ms. Alcantara-Vieira suggested that the Legislators could be supportive in facilitating out reach. They need support throughout the County disseminating information and establishing linkages where there have not been any in the past.

Legislator Young invited Ms. Alcantara-Vieira to the Minority Affairs meeting on November 16, 1998 where they will be discussing the

services provided by the County to the Spanish – Speaking Community.

Legislator Spreckman suggested that they get all the people who are not in the Census out. The Census 2000 is very important.

Legislator Stewart-Cousins made a motion to approve the resolution confirming the appointment of Lucia Alcantata-Vieira and was seconded by Legislator Spreckman. The motion was carried by a vote of 4-0.

Ms. Heymann stated that the HAB is trying to formulate an agenda of what they want to do. She feels that some pressing issues are; the lack of integration of Latinos in the community. This causes racial tension. They need to bridge customs and education. Also she feels they need to come up with a comprehensive manual of services provided.

Legislator Young explained that the Committee on Minority Affairs will be addressing this issue at their meeting on November 16, 1998 and invited her to attend.

Legislator Spreckman made a motion to approve the resolution confirming the appointment of Graciela Heymann as a member of the Hispanic Advisory Board and was seconded by Legislator Pinto. The motion was carried by a vote of 4-0.

Legislator Stewart-Cousins made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 5:05 p.m. and was seconded by Legislator Pinto. The motion was carried by a vote of 4-0.