Monthly Informational Meeting May 12, 2021, 7pm Via Zoom

May Secretary Report There was an email mix up and no one has seen the minutes. Not approved at this time.

February Treasurer Report – Submitted

Old Business: Motion: The Chairperson of the DeKalb County Democratic Party has the power to appoint people to ballot vacancies until the first week of March 2025. – Jamie Canino 2nd – Mary Anna Feitler Roll call vote: 5 Yes 3 Not present Approved

Strategic Plan No report. Jamie and Jama still need to meet.

Marketing Report – Jama Smith Facebook numbers are still growing at roughly the same pace as the last couple months. New groups and events are being built under the Dem page in a continued effort to build a sense of community. Soon social media pushes will go out encouraging viewers to “find their people” in the DeKalb County Indiana Democrats. Soon after some paid pushes will begin. Everyone was reminded that while social media can seem silly, the time and effort put into social media is an investment in a long game strategy. Social media can be a very inexpensive tool once election time rolls around, but ONLY if we’ve built our community now.

Rising Leadership – This is our most important new group. It’s meant to begin on Facebook but extend to in person very soon. This group is meant to encourage those who seek out leadership positions. We will be sharing educational and networking opportunities in the group. This group should be a source of information and encouragement. Mike Schmuhl – Indiana Chair Introduction Jamie Harrison announced huge investments in our state Democratic structure. We qualify as a red state, so we should get an extra boost. State is working on structure to help all areas: 1. Year round organizing plan with staff 2. Digital media rapid response team (fighting back against misinformation, fielding candidates, and preparation 3. County Party Summit Coming Soon There was a quality Q&A time with Mr. Schmuhl as well at this time. Rescue Plan information/stats should be coming out tomorrow. (May 13th)

Rising Leader Awareness – We need to locate and encourage potential new leaders throughout the county for all down ballot positions. Attendees were made aware of and encouraged to share the state Emerging Leaders program. Applications for this are due mid June. Summer Outdoor Meetings/Events –  Our June Info meeting will be held at Memorial Park in the pavilion.  The Party with Friends (social gathering) may be switched to immediately proceed our monthly meeting. TBA  From State – June American Rescue Plan Info Event. TBA

New Business: Candidate Recruitment – We need a candidate for the County Commissioner West District.

Business Cards to Handout – We want them to be able to quickly share our website and other party info for those wishing to get involved. Motion to spend up to $100 – Jama Canino 2nd – John Davis Approved

Boards and Commission Updates

Auburn Tree Commission – Jen Hathaway – Inventory has begun

City Planning – No official report because meeting was continued. But one could check the public meeting site for the City of Auburn. Adjourn 8:16pm

Next meeting is Wednesday, June 9th at 7pm via Zoom AND live at Memorial Park.