Title
Approval of the Recommended Social Justice and Equity Commission 2022-2023 Work Plan
Recommended Action
Commission Recommendation:
The Community Livability and Public Safety Committee received a briefing on the Social Justice and Equity Commission recommended 2022-2023 Work Plan at their September 28 meeting and recommended forwarding it to the full City Council as amended.
City Manager Recommendation:
Move to approve the Social Justice and Equity Commission recommended 2022-2023 Work Plan as amended and approved by the Community Livability and Public Safety Committee.
Report
Issue:
Whether to approve the Social Justice and Equity Commission recommended 2022-2023 Work Plan as amended and approved by the Community Livability and Public Safety Committee.
Staff Contact:
Tobi Hill-Meyer, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program Manager, Office of Strategic Initiatives 360.753.8285
Presenter(s):
Tobi Hill-Meyer, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program Manager
Background and Analysis:
Each year, all advisory committees, boards, and commissions develop a work plan. The annual cycle goes from April to the following March, to match the appointment of new Commissioners in April 2023.
The Social Justice and Equity Commission (Commission) was formed earlier this year and had their first meeting in May 2022. At their retreat on September 10, they approved a work plan for the remainder of the Commission’s annual cycle (September 2022 - April 2023). Work plan approval is required for the Commission to move forward on these projects and actions.
Highlights of the 2022-2023 work plan include the execution of a community discrimination assessment to gain a better understanding of discrimination in our community and what kinds of interventions could be effective, making a recommendation to the Council for civilian police oversight, and the creation of educational materials such as Know Your Rights and employer/landlord guidance.
The Community Livability and Public Safety Committee amended the work plan by requesting the Commission provide community oversight of the Police Auditor until a permanent civilian oversight model is recommended and approved by the City Council.
Meetings are held virtually on the fourth Monday of every month from 6-8 p.m.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
The purpose of the Social Justice and Equity Commission is to “eliminate racism and fulfill human rights for a just and equitable Olympia for all people.” The community has an expectation of to move forward with all reasonable speed.
Options:
1. Approve the recommended Social Justice and Equity Commission 2022-2023 Work Plan as amended and approved by the Community Livability and Public Safety Committee.
2. Direct the Social Justice and Equity Commission to add/delete items and schedule time on an upcoming meeting to discuss.
Financial Impact:
The City Council appropriated $77,000 in the 2022 Operating Budget to support the work of the Commission.
Attachments:
Draft Work Plan 2022-2023