01/22/1992 Meeting (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

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. were established, there would be a basis for implementing a non-Federal pro gram. Ms. Norris agreed that that was possible. However, it entails a two-year process, including taking public testimony and analyzing practices. She favored using the time more constructively by actually beginning the program now before council. Ms. Norris continued her presentation, saying that the issues that need to be addressed in the proposed update are as follows: 1) the program is not widely known in the community; 2) there are minority- and female-owned businesses not on the State's certified list; 3) the City has not been able to identify minority businesses that do the type of work it bids; 4) the City's internal processes for monitoring performance on DBEs is not as comprehensive as it should be; and 5) there is no City staff dedicated to coordinating the program on a Citywide basis. Responding to a question from Mr. Green, Terry Smith, Public Works Deputy Director, said that the State's certified list identifies the service area for each business on its list. It is important for businesses to get certified because the State uses the list to set a goal for work awarded in each area. e Ms. Norris said the plan calls for the Human Rights Commission to playa role in the public hearing process. She said there is an internal staff team working on the issue and the next step is designing process and procedures for implementing the plan, within three months. Mr. Boles asked that the report on DBE participation requested by Mr. Green be distributed to the entire council. Ms. Norris reviewed the City's Affirmative Action Program, saying the City's goal is to have an employment base that reflects the diversity found in the community. The City also wants its work force prepared to accept and respond to issues created by changing demographics in the community and the organization. She said the City feels ready to enter into a joint agreement with the community about how to reach its diversity goals. Mr. Green asked that the word "found" be struck from the document, saying ethnic minorities are in the community, they do not need to be found. Mr. Boles cautioned against building parallel service systems for specific groups based on language. Mr. MacDonald said another goal is to support community agencies to build their own access systems. e MINUTES--Eugene City Council Lunch Work Session January 22, 1992 Page 4