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Planning Department outlines 'Community Equity Division' and Phase 2 equity work for preservation and housing
Summary
Planning staff described a temporary Community Equity Division, new engagement strategies, an equity assessment tool, and Phase 2 priorities to center racial and social equity across preservation, housing and planning work. Commissioners asked for ongoing training and involvement.
Planning Department staff briefed the Historic Preservation Commission on Phase 2 of the department's plan to center racial and social equity in planning work.
Staff said the department has created a temporary Community Equity Division to elevate equity across planning functions; the division will house an equity plan team, a community engagement manager and a policies-and-strategies team. Staff described a racial and social equity assessment tool, revisions to internal budgeting tools, and expanded community engagement plans intended to make meetings and outreach more accessible and culturally competent.
Staff said Phase 2 will prioritize concrete deliverables by the end of the year while building longer-term capacity and that implementation will continue beyond the formal closure of the temporary division. Commissioners welcomed the update and urged ongoing staff training, recruitment diversity, and closer coordination with the Office of Racial Equity. Staff said they will return with a Phase 2 draft framework and additional opportunities for the commission to engage and provide priorities for implementation.
Commissioners thanked staff for the work and encouraged emphasis on continuing education and practical community engagement as the department moves from plan to implementation.
