Oshkosh DEI committee reviews equity framework; considers equity impact reviews, data transparency and youth pipelines
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Summary
The committee reviewed a draft DEI equity framework prepared by Andrew Tillman that recommends measures such as equity impact reviews for policies and infrastructure, staff training, standardized public data, enhanced police monitoring and civic leadership pipelines; staff will bring department metrics to the next meeting for prioritized action.
The Oshkosh City Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee reviewed a draft DEI equity framework on Feb. 23 that outlines possible actions citywide, including requiring equity impact reviews on policy proposals and infrastructure projects, expanding staff training, publishing standardized city equity data, and exploring police activity monitoring.
"One thought was to require equity impact reviews on policy," the framework’s presenter said, summarizing a proposal that any new ordinance, infrastructure project or policy change include an assessment of differential impacts on communities and a written account of mitigation steps where needed.
Committee members and staff discussed which elements are already in use and which would require new documentation or resources. Staff noted some existing work: the city uses a Municipal Equity Index (MEI) for LGBTQ+ questions and department metrics tied to the city strategic plan, and several departments conduct training and collect data. At the same time, speakers said formal reporting on equity assessments is not consistently documented for public review.
Members emphasized improving public communications so residents can find equity metrics and called out the city website’s usability. Staff said a communications and engagement manager, Drew (recently hired), and information technology staff are working on a website revamp. Committee members suggested a "get involved" web section, social-media outreach to younger audiences and partnerships with schools and student groups to build civic leadership pipelines.
On policing and accountability, members asked whether enhanced monitoring or transparent reporting is already happening; staff said police accreditation and annual reporting exist but that clarity on published equity metrics could be improved so residents can review results more easily.
The committee and staff agreed on next steps: staff will assemble and bring department-level metrics and related materials to the next meeting so the committee can identify a short list of actionable priorities to recommend for public communication or council consideration.
Separately, the committee approved the minutes from its Jan. 26 meeting by voice/roll call earlier in the session. No other formal policy actions were taken at the Feb. 23 meeting; the committee adjourned after announcements about the Unity Care Fair and community events.
