The meeting’s primary focus was on the city’s supplier diversity program, which aims to increase participation from minority and women-owned business enterprises in city contracts. Currently, the participation rate remains stagnant at 10%, a figure the committee is determined to improve. The proposal to create a new program coordinator position is seen as a potential catalyst for change, with the coordinator expected to work closely with procurement and compliance teams to simplify processes and enhance outreach efforts. The committee acknowledged the complex nature of government contracts, which can be daunting for small businesses, particularly those from underrepresented communities.

Committee members raised concerns about the effectiveness of current strategies and the need for a clearer framework to evaluate progress. In response, efforts to develop a dashboard for real-time monitoring of procurement data were highlighted, with the intent to improve transparency and accountability.

The meeting also addressed the variability in spending across different departments, emphasizing the need for a tailored approach to procurement goals based on whether contracts are for construction or services. The committee expressed a desire for regular updates on progress and opportunities for improvement, recognizing that achieving substantial improvements in supplier diversity will require sustained effort and strategic planning.

In parallel, the committee delved into the topic of the Police Complaints Review Commission, underscoring its role as a crucial vehicle for community trust and transparency. Concerns were raised regarding insufficient funding for the PCR, with a call for a clear vision that aligns with the mayor’s broader public safety initiatives. The PCR operates under a review and recommend model, unique for being one of the first of its kind in the nation since its establishment in 1989. While the commission can make recommendations to the police chief regarding complaints, the chief retains ultimate authority over disciplinary actions.

Recent changes in state law now allow commission determinations to stand, although this remains within the constraints of the existing model. The committee discussed the authority of PCR commissioners, particularly whether they have the power to adopt bylaws without council approval. It was reiterated that, while the commission can propose recommendations, the chief of police makes the final decisions on disciplinary matters.

Further discussions focused on the need for updated procedures, as the commission has not published new procedures since 2017. The importance of ongoing efforts to enhance community trust through transparency and engagement was emphasized, with acknowledgments of the work being done to update bylaws.

The meeting also touched on the department’s performance metrics, particularly in relation to staffing for labor standards enforcement. The positive workplace environment and improved morale since the department’s reformation in 2009 were noted, with a focus on aligning staffing capabilities with the department’s vision. Concerns were raised about the potential impacts of staffing changes on service capacity.

The committee expressed appreciation for the staff’s efforts in improving turnaround times and performance indicators, recognizing the importance of gathering and sharing metrics to demonstrate departmental effectiveness. As discussions concluded, there was a consensus on the need for continued dialogue on supplier diversity and PCR funding, acknowledging their integral roles in the city’s functioning.