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Board changes small‑business certification to align with federal executive order; some community groups call it abandonment of women/minority enterprise support
Summary
The board adopted revisions to Policy 7.72 (Small/Micro Business and MWBE certification) 6‑1, citing a need to align district procurement categories with an Executive Order; community speakers and small business advocates said the change undercuts support for minority‑ and women‑owned vendors.
The Duval County School Board voted 6‑1 to revise Chapter 7 policies governing the Small/Micro Business Enterprise Program and minority/women business enterprise (MWBE) certification. Board Member Balduc moved the change; Board Member Willie seconded. Staff told the board the revisions align district certification categories with Executive Order 14,151 and recent state guidance; supporters argued the change was necessary to protect federal funding, while opponents said it abandons long‑standing local commitments to minority‑ and women‑owned firms.
Several public speakers urged the board to delay or reject the change. "Does that really reflect your values?" asked Susan Aertkur during the public hearing, urging the board not to erase language recognizing diversity and inclusion. "Removing that focus is not just a policy change. It's a message that says the district no longer sees the value in leveling the playing field," said Erin Sher, a local business owner who described herself as a woman working in a male‑dominated field.
Board Member Balduc said staff had checked the proposed categories and assured the board that local minority‑ and women‑owned businesses would continue to qualify under the revised definitions. Legal counsel Ray Poole walked the board through the legal backdrop, referencing Supreme Court precedent and recent federal actions. Poole told the board the legal landscape was unsettled and that complying with current executive guidance reduced the district’s risk of losing federal funds.
Why it matters: The small‑business and MWBE program has been used by the district to direct procurement dollars to locally owned minority and women businesses and to meet community equity goals. Opponents warned that removing explicit MWBE language from policy could discourage firms that rely on the program and reduce representation among district contractors.
What the board decided: The motion passed 6‑1. Board Member Willie voted no. Board Member Balduc said the revisions are intended to keep the district in compliance while staff continues outreach to impacted vendors. Counsel advised the board that, depending on the outcome of pending litigation and later federal guidance, the board could revisit the policy.
What happens next: District procurement staff said they will continue outreach and said businesses that previously received certification should be able to qualify under the new categories. Legal staff advised the board there is risk and uncertainty because federal litigation and appellate rulings are ongoing.
