Equity & Engagement Committee – April 16, 2024

Equity & Engagement Committee Meeting Recap – April 16, 2024

On April 16, 2024, the Equity & Engagement Committee convened a meeting open to both in-person and virtual participation via the City's Virtual Engagement Hub and by phone, allowing for public comment through a call-in option. This recap summarizes the key discussions and decisions made during this important meeting, providing residents with a clear understanding of what transpired.

Significant Decisions & Approvals: The committee took two key votes during the meeting. First, they unanimously approved the minutes from their previous March meeting, ensuring accurate record-keeping of past discussions. Secondly, and perhaps more significantly, the committee unanimously recommended that City Council approve funding recommendations for Round Four of the Strategic Partnership Grant Program. This program directly addresses opportunity gaps for low-to-moderate income school-age youth, and the Council vote is scheduled for April 23rd.

Updates on Reparations Commission & Grant Program: A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to updates from two ongoing initiatives. Salam Naya Merritt, Director of Equity and Inclusion, provided an update on the Community Reparations Commission (CRC). The CRC has been actively working on developing draft recommendations focusing on vital areas for the African-American community, including health and wellness for elders, mental health support, a “Black Joy Fund,” environmental justice initiatives, and establishing Black healing/birthing centers. The CRC is also developing tracking mechanisms to implement a cease-to-harm audit, which was presented to city and county commissioners. Future CRC meetings will be held on a special-called basis in May and June, with dates to be posted on the City's website. Rachel Taylor, Economic Development Manager, then presented recommendations for the Strategic Partnership Grant Program, which received 21 applications requesting over $1.3 million in funding – significantly more than the approximately $237,000 available. Following interviews with top applicants, all indicated their willingness to accept partial funding, recognizing the need for support even at a reduced level.

Community Voices & Future Accountability: While no members of the public utilized the call-in option to provide comments during this meeting, discussions highlighted the importance of community engagement and accountability. Councilwoman Roney and Assistant City Manager Rachel Wood emphasized the need for transparency in implementing recommendations from audits like the cease-to-harm audit. Furthermore, discussions are ongoing regarding a third-party entity to hold the city and county accountable for implementing reparations recommendations, with further discussion planned for an upcoming meeting on April 22nd.

What's Next & How It Impacts You: Several key action items emerged from the meeting. City Council will vote on the Strategic Partnership Grant Program funding recommendations on April 23rd, which could directly impact youth programs in our community. Staff will also be working with grant recipient organizations to develop a reporting process and framework to assess the impact of these grants on closing the opportunity gap, ensuring that funding is used effectively. Finally, residents are encouraged to stay informed about the CRC’s progress and future meetings by checking the City's website for updates on special-called meetings in May and June.

This meeting demonstrated the Committee’s ongoing commitment to addressing equity challenges and fostering engagement within our community. By staying informed about these initiatives, residents can better understand how their local government is working to create a more just and equitable city for all.