New Lacey Commission on Equity will provide input into city policies
The city of Lacey has a planning commission, a historical commission, a parks board, a community work group on homelessness and now a Commission on Equity, a citizen body that will be asked to provide input on city policies.
The Lacey City Council voted unanimously Thursday to create the eight-member commission. Each member will serve a three-year term and must either live in the city or the city’s urban growth area.
The commission has been granted a $25,000 budget in case it needs to hire a consultant for more detailed work, City Manager Scott Spence said.
Lacey is the most diverse city in the county, but needs to do more, according to comments shared during a work session on the topic a week ago.
“We’re proud of this diversity,” said Kelly Adams, a management analyst for the city, “but we continue to hear about issues of inadequate representation.”
Mayor Andy Ryder said the group will “identify and address issues of equity, policy improvement, inclusive activity and educational partnerships.” The commission might provide feedback on a major planning document or weigh in on proposed zoning changes
Ryder said he wants to make sure the city has all perspectives.
During the early days of the pandemic when the city was providing funds to small businesses affected by COVID-19, Deputy Mayor Cynthia Pratt repeatedly asked whether ethnic business owners who speak another language were even aware of what the city was doing. The commission also could come up with a multi-language communication plan for all Lacey residents, including small business owners.
Although council member Lenny Greenstein was supportive of the commission and voted to approve it, he did raise questions during a work session about adding another layer of government.
“As we all know, government moves at a snail’s pace,” he said.
Council member Carolyn Cox welcomed the commission. “I’m so happy this day is here and I will enthusiastically support the motion,” she said.
The city will soon be seeking applicants for the commission. If interested, check the city of Lacey website at http://www.ci.lacey.wa.us/default.aspx.
This story was originally published January 22, 2021 at 5:45 AM.
