Economic Disparities Recommendations | 2023 Update
5.1 . A Implement MWBE data collection .
5.1 . B Create an Office of Business Diversity .
5.1 . C Reduce barriers of communication with MWBEs .
5.1 . D Find solutions to reducing barriers to MWBEs being prime contractors .
City Lead : City Manager ’ s Office , Finance Department and Economic Development Timeframe : Long term ( 3-5 years ) Actions :
• The Office of Business Diversity was established in September 2022 . - Complete (& Ongoing )
• The Office of Business Diversity has implemented a diversity software program to capture MWBE spend , monitor contract compliance , track prime and subconsultant progress and verify the certification status of the City ’ s vendors . - In Progress
• The Office of Business Diversity has expanded its data reporting capacity by tracking new MWBEs doing business with the City and their location . - Complete
• The Office of Business Diversity facilitated a revised annual RFQ process for capital projects ; delivered an RFQ pre-bid workshop that attracted a significant number of minority vendors ; conducted training for RFQ team lead evaluators ; hosted quarterly Lunch & Learns with the vendor community ; and will establish a vendor outreach and training office at Spark Coworking Arlington . - Complete
5.2 . A Create an MWBE Department and develop contracting requirements and accountability for City departments and prime contractors .
City Lead : City Manager ’ s Office , Finance Department and Economic Development Timeframe : Long term ( 3-5 years ) - Complete (& Ongoing ) Actions :
• The Office of Business Diversity has been established and is reviewing / developing policies , practices and training . Staff meets monthly with Procurement and other departments for improvement and training . Staff conducts annual outcomes meetings with a focus on operational improvement and innovations with departmental leaders .
Unity Council Report 2023 75