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Lacey Equity Commission reviews 2026 work plan, prioritizes internships, downtown advocacy and utility relief review
Summary
The commission reviewed a draft 2026 work plan that emphasizes measurable equity outcomes, neighborhood forums, internship and mentorship programs, a community and cultural grants pilot (pending budget approval), and a council request to review utility relief programs; no formal action was taken and staff will return with revisions.
The Lacey Equity Commission reviewed a draft work plan for 2026 at its Nov. 24 meeting, offering feedback on priorities that include strengthened community engagement, youth internships and mentorships, downtown advocacy, and a review of utility relief programs at the City Council’s request.
Staff summarized findings from a September retreat and a strengths‑opportunities‑aspirations‑results exercise, highlighting progress on the equity map, DEIB summit planning, and partnerships with regional stakeholders. The draft includes quarter‑by‑quarter milestones: a Q1 joint meeting with the Lacey Youth Council, Q2 focus groups and a leadership/mentorship program review, Q3 a public art program review and award program consideration, and Q4 contract and information‑sharing reviews.
Commissioners urged clearer outreach for existing internship opportunities and suggested the commission document how to apply and publicize internships to diversify applicant pools. They also recommended adding contract recruitment and vendor diversity as items to the work plan.
Staff noted a council request to analyze current utility relief programs and indicated that, if the Council approves the proposed budget, a community and cultural grants pilot would run in 2026 with the commission’s review role. No formal vote was required tonight; staff will incorporate feedback and return the draft for further consideration at the commission’s December meeting and for a tentative Council work session in February.
Next steps: staff will update the draft with commissioner input and provide a status report at the commission’s next meeting; a tentative City Council work session was flagged for Feb. 10.
