Martin Luther King Recognition Task Force — Portland, ME
Date: 2017-09-12

1. 4:30 P.M. Agenda 9/12/2017

 Documents:

 AGENDA SEPTEMBER 12 2017.PDF

2. Draft Minutes From August 24

 Documents:

 MLK TF MINUTES 8 24 2017.PDF

1. 4:30 P.M. Agenda 9/12/2017

 Documents:

 AGENDA SEPTEMBER 12 2017.PDF

2. Draft Minutes From August 24

 Documents:

 MLK TF MINUTES 8 24 2017.PDF
 City of Portland
 Martin Luther King Recognition Task Force
 September 12, 2017
 4:30 PM
 Room 209

 AGENDA

1. Welcome and introductions
2. Review locations for recognition discussed to date and discuss pros and cons of each
3. Discuss and schedule future meetings
4. Adjourn
 Martin Luther King Recognition Task Force

 8/24/2017

 Minutes



Members present: Councilor Ali, Matt Suslovic, Dawud Ummah, Merita McKenzie

Members absent: Herb Adams , Danielle Conway, Dawud Ummah, Daniel Minter, Regina
Phillips, Blanca Santiago

Staff present: Troy Moon



Welcome and introductions:

Councilor Ali called the meeting to order.

No quorum so minutes could not be approved.

Discussion

Dawud – concerned that we address difficult issues head on. It is time to have an honest
conversation and address issues around race.

Councilor Ali indicated that he had received a recommendation from a resident that we look at
Standpipe Park (Fort Sumner Park) as a candidate location to rename for Dr. King.

Councilor Ali confirmed with the Economic Development committee that the final design of
Portland Landing is not done and new ideas could be contributed.

Dawud is interested in an endeavor that could generate funds to support work related to the
legacy of Dr. King.

Councilor Ali indicated that the mission of the committee is to name a location to honor Dr.
King. Building a center is outside the scope.

Discussion about how the center for immigrants came to be established. Dawud feels that the
City of Portland needs a Martin Luther King Center.

Councilor Ali indicated that conversation is for a different setting.

The committee had some discussion about Standpipe Park (Fort Sumner Park) and its history.

Matt asked whether there had been further conversations with the Friends of Congress Park.

Merita suggested that a name change for Congress Square might be welcome. There have been
many names in the past. A deliberate name change could be good.
Matt indicated interest in recognizing several individuals in addition to Dr. King. Merita agreed
with Matt.

The group reviewed the elements of Portland Landing and its extent. Councilor Ali indicated
that the Parks, Rec and Facilities Department will be creating a foundation to raise funds for
Portland Landing. Construction could be in 2019.

Discussion of when to meet next – Many people cannot make it on August 28. After checking
calendars the next meeting is set for Sept. 12 at 4:30.

Councilor Ali – the next steps would be to make a recommendation to Sustainability and
Transportation Committee. We will meet on September 12 to continue the conversation.
Would like a recommendation by October.

Martin Luther King Recognition Task Force

 9/12/2017

 Minutes



Members present: Councilor Ali, Regina Phillips, Merita McKenzie

Staff present: Troy Moon

There was not a quorum present. The members present informally discussed the Task Force’s
progress to this point. Councilor Ali asked Troy to do a Doodle poll to find a new date and
indicated he hoped to have a vote with Task Force recommendations at the next meeting.