Milwaukee committee approves $86K contract with Prism Technical for equity monitoring

In a recent Wauwatosa government meeting, the committee approved a significant contract aimed at promoting economic inclusion and diversity within local construction projects. The committee voted to authorize staff to amend a professional service agreement with Ari Smith, increasing the total contract amount to $501,245. This decision reflects the city’s commitment to enhancing community engagement and ensuring equitable opportunities for disadvantaged businesses.

The meeting also addressed a contract with Prism Technical, which will provide monitoring services for the Mandel Group's Harlow and Hamm multiunit residential proposal. The contract, not to exceed $86,937, is designed to ensure that 25% of professional service construction costs are awarded to disadvantaged businesses and that 25% of new hires come from distressed ZIP codes within Milwaukee County. This initiative is part of a broader effort to create economic opportunities for underrepresented communities.

Alder Arnie expressed strong support for the contract, highlighting the importance of Prism's role in fostering connections that can lead to job opportunities for individuals from historically marginalized areas. The committee noted that Prism has successfully facilitated similar projects in the past, achieving significant minority-owned business participation rates.

Despite the positive discussions, some committee members raised concerns about the necessity of the project and the use of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) for the development. Alder McLiff voiced opposition, arguing that the project may not be needed at this time, given other developments in the area that do not require TIF support.

The approval of these contracts marks a step forward in Wauwatosa's ongoing efforts to promote economic diversity and inclusion in local development projects. As the city moves forward, it will continue to monitor the impact of these initiatives on the community and strive to create a more equitable economic landscape for all residents.