A resolution requesting the Mayor to develop and implement a new plan to address disparities in the use of minority contractors within the Metro procurement system.

WHEREAS, the results of a disparity study of the Metropolitan Government procurement system conducted by Griffin & Strong, PC, were released in December 2004; and

WHEREAS, this disparity study evidenced an underutilization of both minority and women-owned businesses in the procurement of contracts and services by the Metropolitan Government and the various Metro agencies; and

WHEREAS, to remedy this underutilization, Griffin & Strong recommended that the Metro Purchasing Division adopt a comprehensive policy regarding nondiscrimination in purchasing and contracting, which should include a mandatory covenant of nondiscrimination in all government bids, as well as a monitoring system and sanctions for noncompliance; and

WHEREAS, Members of Council have been presented with evidence that the existing measures implemented by the Metropolitan Government to address disparities among the use of minority firms in government contracts are insufficient; and

WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper that the Mayor take additional steps to implement a plan to address these disparities between the underutilization and availability of minority contractors.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

Section 1. That the Metropolitan County Council hereby goes on record as requesting the Mayor to develop and implement a new plan to address disparities in the use of minority contractors within the Metro procurement system.

Section 2. The Metropolitan Clerk is directed to send a copy of this Resolution to Mayor Bill Purcell.

Section 3. That the Mayor is further requested to respond to the Council as to the feasibility of and/or action taken in compliance with the request stated in Section 1 hereof not later than sixty (60) days from the date of adoption of this Resolution.

Section 4. That this Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Jamie Isabel