EEAC re-elects Dominic Byles as chair, names Abe Mendoza vice chair and approves Oct. 15 diversity luncheon

The San Joaquin County Equal Employment Opportunity Advisory Committee re-elected Dominic Byles as chair and selected Abe Mendoza as vice chair during a voice vote at its meeting. Dominic Byles accepted the nomination, saying he is "humbled" and that committee work helps members "better our communities and better each other." Abe Mendoza, returning to the committee, said he was "willing to support Dominic as vice chair" and cited prior service on the advisory body.

Nominations opened for both leadership positions. Byles was self-nominated and seconded; members voted by saying "I" and the motion carried. Mendoza was nominated for vice chair, spoke briefly about rejoining the committee, and was similarly elected by voice vote.

The committee established an EEO plan subcommittee to draft the two-year EEO plan that the advisory committee will present to the Board of Supervisors in October. Staff reminded members that Brown Act rules limit the number of committee members who may serve on a subcommittee to two, and said the subcommittee will meet monthly through September to complete the plan.

On event planning, the committee voted to host the annual diversity luncheon on Thursday, Oct. 15, at the Ag Center from noon to 1:30 p.m. Tyler Vernon, speaking for staff, said the date mirrors last year's timing; committee members described the event format (departmental raffle baskets and a keynote) and discussed logistical details such as theme selection and catering. Dominic Byles and Abe Mendoza volunteered to chair the luncheon subcommittee; the committee approved their appointment.

The meeting closed after reminders about roster corrections and the next regular meeting, set for Wednesday, June 3 at 3:00 p.m. The committee moved, seconded, and carried a motion to adjourn.