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Ferguson supervisors reaffirm DEI posture, direct staff to identify actionable policies
Summary
After extended debate about federal executive orders and funding risk, the board unanimously directed staff to review ordinances, policies and procedures and bring actionable recommendations to ensure non-discriminatory practices and clarify implementation.
The Ferguson Township Board of Supervisors held a lengthy discussion March 4 about reaffirming a 2017 diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) resolution and whether such a reaffirmation could risk federal funding. The board ultimately voted unanimously to direct staff to research and return with actionable ordinances, policies and procedures.
Several supervisors and residents spoke in favor of reaffirmation and tangible action. Supervisor Stevens and other board members highlighted local DEI work — proclamations, calendar recognitions and accessibility improvements — and said the township should both affirm inclusion and seek concrete measures that prevent discriminatory practices. Supervisor Heller and others cautioned the board to consider potential funding impacts; the township manager and labor counsel told the board they are monitoring legal guidance and that an executive order issued Jan. 21 asks the attorney general to produce recommendations in the coming months.
Supervisor Patterson moved to direct staff to identify ordinances and policies that could be changed to ensure equitable practices and to return with periodic updates; the motion was seconded and passed. The manager said staff will prioritize research and consult with the township solicitor and labor counsel as needed. Board members asked staff to present findings and any recommended ordinance changes, and to include examples of existing township actions that implement DEI principles.
