Lacey City Council launches ambitious equity and inclusion plan

In a recent meeting, the Lacey City Council celebrated the approval of a new diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) strategic plan, marking a significant milestone for the city. Council members expressed enthusiasm for the plan, which aims to enhance racial, cultural, and economic equity within Lacey. The initiative is seen as a vital step in combating bias and discrimination in city policies and practices.

One council member acknowledged the challenges faced by similar commissions in surrounding areas, emphasizing Lacey's commitment to DEIB efforts despite national trends that threaten such initiatives. The council's dedication to implementing the strategic plan was highlighted, with members expressing pride in their role as a model for other cities, including Seattle and Tumwater.

The meeting also included discussions on updates to the advisory board handbook, presented by the city clerk's office. Key takeaways from this segment included the importance of early communication with staff liaisons, maintaining quorums for public meetings, and adhering to public records guidelines. The city clerk emphasized the need for effective organization during meetings, referencing Robert's Rules as a helpful tool.

Overall, the meeting underscored Lacey's proactive approach to fostering an inclusive community and enhancing the functionality of its advisory boards.