Equity & Engagement Committee – June 18, 2024

Equity & Engagement Committee Meeting Recap – June 18, 2024

On June 18th, the Equity & Engagement Committee held a virtual meeting open to the public, focusing on key initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity and addressing historical inequities within our community. The meeting provided updates on the Community Reparations Commission (CRC) and discussed plans for improving accessibility to government meetings, alongside outlining priorities for the committee's work in the coming year.

Significant Decisions & Approvals: A major outcome of the meeting was the unanimous approval to transition all city boards and commissions to hybrid meeting formats. This move, funded by American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars, aims to break down barriers to participation for residents with visual, hearing, language, transportation, or family-related challenges. While City Council committee meetings will remain virtual for now, the possibility of incorporating hybrid options for council participation will be revisited after this transition is complete. The committee also approved the minutes from their previous meeting via a roll call vote.

CRC Progress & Future Steps: A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to an update from Salah Manaya Merritt, Equity and Inclusion Director, regarding the Community Reparations Commission (CRC). The CRC has been actively meeting to develop recommendations addressing historical injustices, electing Dewana Little as Chair and Bobette Mays as Vice-Chair. Discussions have centered on clarifying who qualifies as a "Black resident" for reparations purposes, prioritizing recommendations, and finalizing the report. The CRC will continue bi-weekly meetings to complete their final report, with a joint city/county work session planned to discuss recommendations. The CRC’s request for an extension will be presented to City Council on July 23rd.

Improving Accessibility & Government Engagement: Dawa Hitch, Director of Communication and Public Engagement, presented an update on the Inclusive & Accessible Government Project. This project will upgrade the first floor conference room and implement a new remote meeting policy, creating a more inclusive environment for residents to engage in local government. Contract approval is pending review by City Council on June 25th, with the project expected to be completed by December 2024.

Looking Ahead: FY25 Priorities: Rachel Wood, Assistant City Manager, led a discussion on the committee’s accomplishments in FY24 and potential priorities for FY25. The committee highlighted successes like recommendations on natural hairstyles, enhancements to the Strategic Partnership Grant Program, and acceptance of a disparity study report. Potential focus areas for FY25 include implementing the cease-the-harm audit, developing an equity action plan, addressing reparations recommendations, improving website accessibility, and enhancing online public engagement. A key point raised was the need to strengthen collaboration with advisory boards like the Neighborhood Advisory Committee and HRCA, potentially through joint meetings or coordinated efforts.

Community Voice & Next Steps: While no public comments were received during the meeting, citizen participation is always encouraged. The Equity & Engagement Committee will reconvene in August to finalize the FY25 work plan, incorporating feedback from this meeting and further staff analysis. Bridget Herring will provide an update on the Climate Resilience Resource Guide in July. Residents can stay informed about these initiatives and future meetings by visiting the city's website or contacting the Equity & Engagement Committee directly.

This meeting underscored a commitment to advancing equity and engagement within our community, demonstrating proactive steps towards creating a more inclusive and accessible local government for all residents. The decisions made regarding hybrid meetings and the ongoing work of the CRC represent significant opportunities to address historical inequities and ensure broader participation in civic life.