[Adopted 3-23-2010[1]]
[1]
Editor's Note: This ordinance superseded former Art. VIII,
Immigration Assistance Commission, adopted 12-9-1997 (§§ 2-114
to 2-116 of the 1988 Code.
A.
Purpose. An Immigration Assistance Commission is hereby established
for the purpose of advocating for the well-being of Lowell's diverse
immigrant and refugee population and the development of policies and
programs that assist resident immigrants of the City of Lowell in
addressing their needs and concerns.
B.
Membership.
(1)
The Immigration Assistance Commission shall consist of nine members
appointed by the City Manager subject to confirmation by the City
Council and four additional ex officio members as hereinafter provided.
(2)
The aforementioned nine appointed members shall be comprised of persons
representing the following offices, disciplines and interests:
(3)
The following shall be ex officio members of the Commission: the
City Manager or designee, the Mayor or designee; a member of the City
Council or designee; a member of the School Committee or designee.
C.
Terms. Three members shall be appointed to serve for one year, three
for two years and three for three years and annually thereafter there
shall be appointed three members to serve for three years. The members
who are appointed by the City Manager shall hold office until their
successors are duly appointed by the City Manager and confirmed by
the City Council. The chairperson of the Immigration Assistance Commission
shall be designated by the City Manager.
The Immigration Assistance Commission shall be under the administrative
supervision of the City Manager, and the members thereof shall serve
without compensation.
It shall be the duty of the Immigration Assistance Commission
to:
A.
Promote the economic, civic and social integration of newcomers—immigrants,
refugees—into American society while at the same time increasing
public understanding and appreciation of the contributions of immigrants
and awareness of Lowell's immigrant history.
B.
Advise the City Council and the City administration on issues affecting
Lowell's immigrant and refugee population, providing guidance in the
formulation of policies, partnerships and programs that are designed
to meet the problems and provide services to newcomers to the City.
C.
Encourage understanding between and among Lowell's varied immigrant
groups, newly arrived and established, and the larger Lowell community.
D.
Act as a clearinghouse in respect to aiding and assisting in whatever
way feasible any immigrant resident of the City of Lowell.
