Charlene Holmes, Tompkins County chief equity and diversity officer, told the Government Operations Committee her office (JEDI) is forming a committee to research and recommend paid parental leave for county employees and will meet this Friday with union and staff representatives.

Holmes said human resources confirmed work toward a paid parental leave policy is already underway and that the committee will review neighboring-county policies and develop options that fit Tompkins County's organizational structure. "So we are going to deploy JEDI's resources for that particular initiative here at the county," Holmes said.

Holmes also updated the committee on other equity work: the office is finalizing equity indicators and trend analysis with department heads; a short documentary-style video on the county's equity and diversity history is in draft; a $5,000 microgrant program is being formed and a committee to oversee award decisions is being assembled; and the office plans engaging and effective allyship trainings in early June for staff.

Action/Next steps: JEDI will convene a committee including union and staff members to research paid parental leave options and return recommendations. Holmes asked legislators who wish to serve on the microgrant committee to contact her. The allyship trainings are scheduled for early June and will be open to the county workforce.

No committee vote was required for the updates; items were presented as informational and planning steps.