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Jackson council approves $175,000 Phase 2 of racial equity audit after debate, 6–1
Summary
Jackson City Council approved Phase 2 of a racial equity audit to be managed by the Department of Equity and Inclusion and CNA Corporation for $175,000, splitting $87,500 across two budget years. The measure passed 6–1 after public concern about cost and requests to publish Phase 1 results.
Jackson City Council voted 6–1 on Oct. 14 to authorize Phase 2 of a racial equity audit to be managed by the city's Department of Equity and Inclusion in partnership with CNA Corporation at a firm fixed price of $175,000.
The council approved the contract after staff and a consultant described the audit's scope, saying Phase 1 had focused on the police department and that Phase 2 would examine race, ethnicity, gender, workplace culture and belonging across city operations. A speaker identified in the record as a consultant summarized the procurement history and said objectivity required a third-party assessment. City staff said the cost would be split across two budget years via DEI allocations ($87,500 from each year as presented to the council).
Public commenters urged caution. William Hastings, who spoke during public comment, asked that Phase 1 be made public and warned of "legal jeopardy" if equity policies are not carefully drafted; Jan King and others also criticized DEI work. Council member Christie Davis said she voted no because Ward 5 constituents told her they preferred the funds go to road repairs. In explaining her vote, Davis said she "went with what almost every single person I talked with" requested.
Supporters and staff defended the audit as a data-driven tool to identify disparities and to create an evidence base for policy decisions. Council discussion included requests for consultant qualifications and for clarity on what groups would be included in the audit; staff and the consultant said the audit is "beyond race alone" and includes multiple dimensions of equity.
The council record shows the vote was taken after public Q&A and staff presentations; the clerk announced the motion passed "6 to 1." The council authorized the city manager and city attorney to finalize contract details consistent with the approved terms.
What happens next: Staff will finalize the agreement with CNA Corporation and begin Phase 2 work under the DEI budget allocations described at the meeting. Council members asked that Phase 1 materials be posted for public review.
