Frances Lowder
Mason City
1973-1977
Gary Koerselman
Sioux City
1972-1975
Elizabeth Kruidenier
Des Moines
1965-1975
James Gillman
Des Moines
1973-1977
George Garcia
Iowa City
1973-1977
Gretchen Walsh
Dubuque
1973-1977
DeEdwin White
Burlington
1971-1975
The policy making body of the
Commission consists of seven Commissioners, appointed by the Governor with
the advice and consent of the Senate. They represent geographical areas
within the state with no more than four belonging to the same political
party. Appointments are made to staggered four-year terms. A per diem and
expenses incurred are allocated to every Commissioner while on official
Commission business.
Commissioners' duties include the development of rules and regulations for
the agency, and deciding Probable Cause or No Probable Cause findings in
discrimination cases. It is also the Commissioners' responsibility to make
the final decision on cases going to public hearings, reviewing the findings
and issuing the final order on a public hearing case.
Meeting once a month brings the Commissioners together to discuss the goals
and timetables of the director and his staff. The need for keeping current
on Civil Rights legislation requires the Commissioners to spend some time
in training sessions. They also make various public appearances on behalf
of the Commission.
Commissioners have the responsibility to make recommendations to the General
Assembly for further legislation in the area of Civil Rights.
Frances Lowder served as Chairperson until her resignation in April, 1975, at which time Gary Koerselman, Vice-Chairperson, took over the leadership. At the close of this fiscal period, the terms of Elizabeth Kruidenier and DeEdwin White expired with no re-appointment.