Refugee meetings this week
By Bobbi Mlynar
Originally published 01:09 p.m., November 26, 2007
Updated 01:09 p.m., November 26, 2007
Two meetings are planned this week to discuss a variety of questions about the influx of refugees into Emporia.
Representatives from government and non-profit organizations will be present Wednesday evening to answer questions about refugees who are here now and those who may be coming.
The meeting will begin at 7 p.m. in the Little Theater of the Civic Building, 111 East Sixth Ave.
City Manager Matt Zimmerman said he has received confirmation from a number of individuals and groups that plan to attend to answer those questions.
They are: Catholic Charities, represented by Stephen Weitkamp, refugee and migrant services director, and Jan Lewis, executive director; the Emporia School District; Acting Police Chief Michael Lopez and Deputy Chief Mike Williams; the Flint Hills Community Health Center; Tyson Fresh Meats, represented by Roger Brownrigg; State Reps. Don Hill and Peggy Mast; State Sen. Jim Barnett; the Emporia City Commission; and Zimmerman.
“What we’re hearing is there’s a lot of questions and there’s a lot of concerns in the community,” Zimmerman said. “The purpose of the meeting is to address those questions and provide that information, as well as give people a chance to comment.”
Zimmerman said he is continuing to look for a moderator for the forum to keep it operating in an orderly fashion.
“I’m sure they’re going to insist on decorum, politeness, and some rules,” he said. “I’m sure that they understand as well that we can’t address those concerns and questions unless people are allowed to ask questions and listen to answers.”
No time limit has been set for the meeting.
The public also may meet with U.S. Rep. Jerry Moran, who will be at the Emporia Country Club on Thursday. The public portion of the meeting will begin at 12:30 p.m.
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