Miramar renames ‘Business Inclusion and Diversity’ program; council debates message and continuity of services

The Miramar City Commission approved an ordinance to change the name of the city’s procurement program from “Business Inclusion and Diversity” to “Business Industry Development,” and to update related board terminology to match. The vote was 4‑1 on April 2; Commissioner Chambers voted no.

Chief Bid Administrator Dr. Karen Hollis presented the change as a rebranding that better fits the economic development department’s mission and removes language that some businesses find off‑putting. Hollis said the program will continue to accept certifications and provide technical assistance — including CBE, SBE, MBE and WBE certifications — and that services for minority‑ and women‑owned firms will remain.

Commissioners asked whether the change reflected legal pressure from state or federal changes. Hollis and staff said the switch is not federally or state mandated; it is a local decision intended to increase participation by making the program name feel more business‑friendly. Commissioner Sherazard voiced concern that removing “inclusion” and “diversity” from the name might signal a retreat from targeted support. Hollis and other staff said certifying and outreach efforts will continue, and that the program’s operations will not change.

Commissioner Edwards said the move is a proactive branding decision and supported it. Commissioner Colburn and Vice Mayor Coburn also supported the change, noting the department’s continued outreach and programming. Commissioner Chambers said he opposed the change on principle, citing broader state and federal debates about diversity programs.

The commission recorded a roll‑call vote: Chambers voted no; Sherazard, Colburn, Edwards and Mayor Messam voted yes.