Hollywood forming Asian-American council

The Asian-American Advisory Committee will have 11 volunteer members appointed by the City Commission.

Two other commission-appointed groups, the African-American Advisory Council and the Hispanic Affairs Advisory Council, also address issues of interest to ethnic minorities. Those councils were established in 1992 and 1993.

Commissioner Eleanor Sobel said she proposed an Asian-American Advisory Council after discussing the idea with Asian-American leaders.

Kee Eng, the city's special events coordinator who participates in other Asian-American groups, said Asian-Americans represent about 1.5 percent of Hollywood's population.

The city has a variety of Asian-owned businesses, he said, and the Hollywood Asian Film Festival was held recently.

``There is a vibrant Asian community willing to contribute to life in Hollywood,'' Eng said.

He said he supported the establishment of the advisory council.

``It recognizes the contributions and the value of the Asian-American community,'' Eng said.

The city is accepting resumés and statements of interest from those who want to be considered for a post on the advisory council. Eligible nominees include Asian Americans who have homes or jobs in the city, and others who have a special interest in or knowledge of the Asian-American community.

The Asian-American community in South Florida includes ethnic groups from a geographic area that includes the Middle East, Eng said.

The applications are available at the city clerk's office in City Hall, 2600 Hollywood Blvd., Room 211, or by calling 921-3211.