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