Formerly incarcerated entrepreneur urges council to fund CDL training program after CPC grant dispute

Dale Snyder Jr., founder of ROGO Inc., spoke during public comment about his company's mission to reduce recidivism through Class B commercial driver's license (CDL) training and urged the council to approve a Community Partnership Commission (CPC) grant request. "I'm not sure why it's so much of a fight for $35,000," Snyder said, adding that the program could create long-term careers and reduce recidivism by giving formerly incarcerated people training and placement opportunities.

Snyder described ROGO Inc. as built on his lived experience and said the business model focuses on CDL training to provide stable employment. He said a $35,000 grant would fund vehicle purchase or program components he views as necessary but that he faces restrictions under the CPC grant rules for certain equipment and uses. He asked for transparency in the CPC grant process and invited council, the mayor and staff to partner on the program.

The remarks were made during public comment; the transcript does not show any formal application action, staff presentation, or council vote on the CPC grant during this meeting. Snyder identified the company name and said he is not paid by the city; he requested the city consider the funding and the program's potential for jobs and recidivism reduction.