March 3 Central Committee minutes
March 3, 2005 Democratic Central Committee.

Meeting convened 7:08 p.m.

Chair’s Report: Sarah Swisher said she and 1st Vice Chair Redlawsk had met with Melanie and Jason Friedman, who were offering strategic planning services to the party; motion to accept these services approved.

Motion approved recommending that the new junior high school be named in honor of Minnette Doderer.

First Vice Chair’s Report: David Redlawsk introduced elected officials: Sheriff Lonny Pulkrabek, Supervisors Pat Harney and Rod Sullivan, and Iowa City Council member Regenia Bailey.

Redlawsk proposed a series of Friday “Lunch with Democrats” informal gatherings.

Secretary: Pauline Taylor excused. Motion to approve minutes (one no vote).

Second Vice Chair: Brain Flaherty said all party property had been moved out of the storage shed to the headquarters. He has reserved a booth for the county fair and next month will present a parade schedule.

Treasurer: Beverly Jones noted that due to bank error Victory Fund participants has a double withdrawal the preceding months.

Finance: Kirsten Running reminded members of the Off Year Caucus on March 10. First Lady Christie Vilsack is the scheduled speaker.

Affirmative Action: Jeff Fields said several elected officials had attended the last meeting. The committee is working on women in leadership positions and outreach to African-American churches. Next meeting March 24 6 PM, The Rack.

Concerns: Gary Smith reported a Social Security forum was scheduled for March 19 and Jim Leach would be in attendance. It was suggested that Mr. Leach should face some challenging questions.

Membership: John Deeth had no report, which worked well with the Chair’s stated preference for a short meeting.

Newsletter: Gina Schatteman excused. The party is planning a newsletter in the next couple months.

Publicity: Matt Taylor excused.

2nd CD and State: Brian Flaherty reported that the 2nd CD books are in order again and planning is underway for the off year workshop.

Brian and Carol Porch attended the state central committee planning session and Flaherty noted that our comments helped produce a campaign plan more cooperative with local parties. Flaherty reminded Democrats of the party check off on state tax forms.

University Democrats are currently working on constitution and bylaws.

Motion to adopt reports approved.

Pat Vint nominated and elected to Central Committee for Iowa City Precinct 1.

Regenia Bailey thanks members for their support on her vote against the Wal-Mart zoning. She will be attending an Iowa Women’s Leadership Summit April 15 in Ames.

Dave Leshtz is working on organizing University professional and scientific staff.

Chris Bonfig asked members to attend the March 17 Iowans for Health Care lobby day in Des Moines.

Brian Flaherty reminded Coralville voters of the March 8 library referendum.

Rod Sullivan congratulated Matt Carberry and Susan Wing on their engagement.

Meeting adjourned 7:54 p.m. - John Deeth, membership chair and acting secretary
- posted by John @ 9:25 PM