Hello everyone the committee on contracts oversight and
equity.
Will now come.
Will now come to order.
we will be Begin by establishing a
We will be Begin by establishing a quorum for a roll call.
chairman mitts SP
chairman mitts spreading
Vice chair lisado present
chairman d
chairman Dow
demon, Mitchell
chairman Harris
uh Romero
Uh Romero Romero is that Carlo? So who?
Oh.
Oh Julio Ramirez, okay.
Oh, Julio Ramirez. Okay, uh ottoman Coleman.
are
Armen Taylor
Vice chair
vice mayor Bernette
Jim
chairman
chair metella far
chair metella Faria
chairman viegas
Armand Nan okay
ottoman Gardner
present present Madam chair
Okay.
Okay 1 2 3.
we have
We have 8 members present.
Um
We have a quorum.
I like to get a motion to recognize ottoman.
I like to get a motion to recognize ottoman gardener.
ottoman viegas is here ottoman Harris as part of
Ottoman viegas is here ottoman Harris as part of the
quorum.
so moved by ottoman Irvin, or
So moved by ottoman Irvin or in favor. Say I
alderwoman ramire
alderwoman Ramirez virtual as well
chair
Okay ours. Thank you.
to the books
Is there any non-members present?
Alderman Coleman is virtual as well chairman.
Okay. Thank you.
Okay. Thank you Adam M Coleman.
Thank you chairman.
at this time, we will begin the public comment period
the period is limited to 30 minutes.
out of respect for every everybody's time each speaker is
limited to 3 minutes.
Oh.
Oh for allowing.
can I get a motion? Uh
Can I get a motion, uh pursuant to rule 59 to all?
Can I get a motion, uh pursuant to rule 59 to allow ottoman
James Gardner?
James Gardner ottoman Harris ottoman Coleman.
James Gardner ottoman Harris ottoman Coleman and ottoman
Ramirez to be able to
John is part of the quorum.
so
moved ottoman viegas all in favor signify by saying I I
all right. Thank you.
Um
we have
3 minutes for a public comments
and we have quite a few speakers today.
each 1 will
be allowed 3 minutes.
And we'll start with our first speaker.
And we'll start with our first Speaker, uh want to be Mary
Kay.
Mahan
Good morning, chairman, uh members of the committee.
My name is Mary Kay Mahan. I work with.
My name is Mary Kay Mahan. I work with the women
construction owners and Executives. Uh w.
construction owners and Executives, uh wcoe would like to
thank chairman mitts for bringing this resolution.
thank chairman mitts for bringing this resolution forward.
Now more than ever we need to be focused.
Now more than ever. We need to be focused on our MW and dbe
programs and the access they afford to women and minority
contractors.
Wcoe has been advocating for women and minority Conte.
Wcoe has been advocating for women and minority contractors
for more than 40 years and we have appreciated.
for more than 40 years and we have appreciated the support
we've received from you chairman and mem.
we've received from you chairman and members of the city
council.
our mem
Our members work in a wide variety of Trades and have been
involved in most major.
involved in most major construction projects in Chicago
from Navy.
from Navy Pier to McCormick Place to Chicago's airports.
from Navy Pier to McCormick Place to Chicago's airports and
your local roads and bridges. We've built it off.
Nearly 30 years ago.
Nearly 30 years ago Chicago's mwb program was challenged.
Thankfully we were successful because we all worked
together.
organizations representing construction contracts owned by
women Asians blacks and Hispanics worked closely with the
mayor the aldermen and the city's Law Department.
to prove discrimination existed in Chicago's construction
Endust
industry
But we haven't forgotten how women.
But we haven't forgotten how women and minority contractors
were left out of Contracting opportun.
were left out of Contracting opportunities after Cook
County lost its mwbe program.
County lost its mwbe program in 2000.
today with the current makeup of the United States Supreme
Court. We are seeing legal challenges to mwd.
Court. We are seeing legal challenges to MW dbe programs
and the sbaa 8A program all across the country.
law
Lawsuits are also being filed against private companies.
challenging de their Dei initiatives and other programs
intended to promote diversity. In fact just about a month
ago. A lawsuit was filed against our very own Chicago
Bears.
if the m
If the MW dbe programs are eliminated wco.
If the MW dbe programs are eliminated wcoe fears that
Minority and women contractor.
Minority and women contractor utilization will go to zero
just as it did.
just as it did in 2000.
at the county
whole wcoe wholeheartedly supports this resolution and
urges the committee to approve it today and the City
council to approve it next week.
We look forward to.
We look forward to working with you and this committee to
ensure.
ensure women and minority contractors always have access.
ensure women and minority contractors always have access to
Contracting opportunities in Chicago.
Thank you very much for your time and happy to answer any
questions. Thank you.
our next speaker
Our next speaker is Jacqueline Gomez.
Good afternoon.
Good afternoon, or soon to be good afternoon.
afternoon chairwoman myths members of the committee.
afternoon, chairwoman myths members of the committee and
other members of the city council, uh
other members of the city council. Uh, thank you for having
me today. My name is Jackie Gomez. I'm the executive
director of the Hispanic American Construction.
Association. Haase is a an advocacy training and membership
organization founded in.
organization founded in 1979 for over 40 years. We've been
a strong advocate for fair and equitable.
a strong advocate for fair and Equitable practices within
Government Contracting.
um business diversity programs as you many already know
Foster economic growth by providing opportunities for
historically marginal.
historically marginalized groups such as minority and women
businesses to particip.
businesses to participate, um in the economy as
entrepreneurs.
supporting diversity programs leads to the
Supporting diversity programs leads to the creation of more
jobs particularly within our underserved.
jobs particularly within our underserved communities.
It's no secret that people that look like.
It's no secret that people that look like me and you hire
people that look like us from the communities.
diversity Fosters innovation
diversity Fosters Innovation and creating and creativity by
bringing individuals with different backgrounds perspective
and experiences.
and experiences in today's world cities must embrace.
diversity to remain competitive on a global scale.
diversity to remain competitive on a global scale by
embracing diversity programs.
embracing diversity Programs. Chicago can position itself
to be an inclusive and forward thinking
to be an inclusive and Forward Thinking City attracting
talent and investment.
and making it a dynamic and welcoming place to
And making it a dynamic and welcoming place to live.
as a result
As a result, um as as mentioned even by a previous.
as a result, um, as as mentioned even by previous testimony
by Mary Kay, um, we're hearing lawsuits throughout the
country and they're going to be critically impactful in the
negative way if our diversity programs go away.
So we urge you.
So we urge you I see a supports this resolution and we urge
you to also.
you to also um support this resolution and we thank you for
bringing it forward.
I need to get out of the committee they call you up to.
Yeah.
Yeah, right.
Prof
Yeah.
All right, we're gonna we're gonna continue.
All right, we're gonna we're gonna continue with our public
comments. Um,
comments. Um something came up.
um
Like now we we gonna make sure.
Like now we we gonna make sure that um that's doing this
time.
I don't know what the something.
I don't know what the something be here. You can't just
tell.
tell us up we came to the committee and when you no longer
have a cone you can't fuk.
have a cone you can't fuk to say we got some spare time
they left. So we
they left so we could continue with the public comment we
can.
can continue with the public comments.
according to all of them can hear me
and the answer.
and the answer will appreciate.
I don't know who y'all think y'all talking to.
some very
I mean Kean black.
I mean Kean black men articulate me Ang.
I mean Kean black men articulate black men angry black men.
you gonna
you going to decide after you don't have a code when we
just don't hear from the
just don't here for the party. I want them to hear me.
I can't for them to hear me Accord.
I can't for a call.
to hear me I
To hear me. I will listen. All right all
To hear me. I will listen. All right. All right, we're
gonna stand at recess for a while.
for a few minutes until we
For a few minutes until we can find out when will the group
be able to come back?
group be able to come back in to have a corner? Thank you.
Uh, the
Uh the committee on contracts and oversight with stand at
Rec.
recess.
Can I get a motion from committee members?
Can I get a motion from committee members so moved the move
out?
the spot on?
all in favor signify by
All in favor signify by saying I am the opinion of the
chairs the eyes have it. Thank you.
here
God thank you here.
Equity now resume
We were on a public.
We were on a public comments portion.
zakelj
I'm not sure you spoke already, correct? All right, Tina we
have Tina.
Hello. Um, my name is Tina Chung.
Hello. Um, my name is Tina Chung and I'm representing Ace
the association of Asian-American.
the association of Asian-American construction Enterprises.
In addition. I am the owner of an electric.
In addition. I am the owner of an electrical contracting
company that does work for the city of Chicago.
Ace connects supports and gives voice to Asian-American
businesses in the Contracting and Engineering Industries in
Illinois. We Advocate with and for asian-americans and
other minority organizations.
other minority organizations to ensure access opportunity
and growth
Our mission is to increase opportunities for Asian-American
owned companies.
owned companies in the construction engineering industries
by being an advocate.
by being an advocate by providing a forum and serving as an
information resource for its membership. We fully support.
this resolution supporting mwbe programs. These programs
have helped level the playing field in all Industries.
particularly construction and has provided opportunities to
many organizations that may not have had otherwise
many organizations that may not have had. Otherwise the
successes are many
with our companies providing infrastructure jobs and
economic growth to the city of Chicago the contributes to
making it the dynamic place that it is.
challenges to the programs are nothing new and some of us
were here when the city's program was previously threatened
then like now.
then like now we come together as stakeholders and
investors in our community committed to helping ensure a
Contracting equity.
Contracting Equity continues for all diverse firms. Thank
you.
Thank you.
and I'd like to add or
And I'd like to add oreiro as part of the role call for
determine.
determine the Quant.
next speaker is sending
Lo
step out to depend. Okay, we'll move right along and
is um, next speaker will be Janette.
And I'm not sure is.
she ever
She Everest.
Okay.
Good afternoon, everyone. Um good.
Good afternoon, everyone. Um, good afternoon. My name is
Janette Chavarria Torres, and I am the President of
Janette Chavarria Torres and I am the President of DC
construction hauling I am a construction Hauling Company.
We are a DVM.
we are a dbmv WB certified, uh Trucking firm that works for
the city of Chicago and other municipalities, and I'm just
here.
here to show my support for this initiative to maintain.
here to show my support for this initiative to maintain and
strengthen the dbe program as it is it is the
strengthen the dbe program as it is. It is the foundation
for the M&W program.
for the M&W program for the city of Chicago and other
government a agencies and
government a agencies, and I just wanted to um quickly just
talk about my experience as being an MB WB uh cert
talk about my experience as being an MB WB, uh certified
firm. So just last month I it was
firm. So just last month. I it was my 10 year anniversary.
I started my Trucking Company when I was 22 years old as a
single mother.
My first year in gross revenues was $50.
My first year in gross revenues was $50,000 and last year
we were able to reach the $6.
We were able to reach the $6 million mark.
That is a testament to the program.
That is a testament to the program and how it really helps
minorities like myself. Um, I was not able to obtain my
first d
first DB uh contract until my fourth year in business and
not my uh first WBEE
not my uh, first wbe project at this, uh O'Hare airport
until my fifth year in business. I've been at or
Airport for the last 5 years, and I've been able to sub
subcontract uh to over 50 other minority.
subcontract uh to over 50 other minority, uh companies to
work at O'Hare.
work at O'Hare um, and probably to say that uh, just last
year where we we were able to bring on 10 other WV Trucking
firms.
firms that have never stepped into O'Hare and participate
on these projects. So I I'm just a testament.
on these projects. So I'm I'm just a testament and an
example of just 1 business on how this program.
example of just 1 business on how this program really, uh
helps and um, and I think it will be important to
Keep because we do create jobs. We do Community Development
and it also helps us create generational wealth. So I thank
you, um for bringing up this res.
you, um for bringing up this resolution for its support for
the dbe program and
the dbe program, and if I could be of help with anything
else, please feel free to reach out to me. Thank you. Thank
you.
the next
our next speaker Ivan celis
Good morning, Madam chair. Um, thank you for allowing us
this.
this opportunity to um, uh comment on speaker.
this opportunity to um, uh comment on speaking on behalf of
uh, the uh resolution. Um, I think that the uh dbe program
um has been uh, if not perfect.
um has been uh, if not perfect in its implementation has
been a huge. Uh,
been a huge uh tool to uh, bring parity into the
been a huge, uh, tool to uh, bring parity into the uh,
government contracting business. Um since
government contracting business. Um, since the uh time of
the Nixon Administration and I think that there are um
forces of the national level,
forces of the national level trying to dismantle the gains
made, uh,
made, uh in the 1960s from a Voting Rights Act to the Civil
Rights and this is just an extension of that effort. Um, so
we uh, uh,
Welcome your uh resolution we supported.
Welcome your uh resolution. We supported uh, wholeheartedly
uh, and we think that it's uh, it's important that the uh,
city council, um and the different caucuses get together
and and show leadership on issues such as this because they
do have an impact a direct impact on our communities, um,
you know, uh aside from uh, the talk about, you know,
you know, uh aside from uh the talk about you know, who's
who's benefiting more or not?
I think that the uh the effects of
I think that the uh, the effects of a dbe program no longer
being there, uh would have a huge detriment we detrimental
effect.
effect in our communities and the participation of our
businesses.
businesses, uh in both City local state, uh, and at the
federal level, so thank you for uh your leadership on this.
and uh, anything we can do as well, uh to support you. Um,
please please feel free to reach out to us. Thank you.
Um next speaker to wanna Sams.
so
So what time 1 Sams?
um good
Um, good morning committee. Good morning. Good morning.
So, my name is Taiwan Sims and
So, my name is Taiwan Sims, and I'm here to speak directly
to the issue of.
black survival here in this city black
Black survival here in this city black American survival
here in this city. Um
have we been treated Equitable in the last 20 years know
and I'm 43?
So I've been here in this.
So I've been here in this city for 43 years only I've
lived.
in Rogers Park and I realized that when you have close
proximity to white people you don't realize
proximity to white people, you don't realize how destitute
or how downright your people really being.
or how downright your people really being treated.
And I know people don't want to hear.
and I know people don't want to hear about Black Americans
or or us speaking directly to how crappy we treated here.
if it's only 2% of
If it's only 2% of Contracting being given to a whole.
of people, how much does that equal to?
and from
And from what amount is that 2% being extracted?
This is the question.
if we started in this city versus a group of
If we started in this city versus a group of people who
came to the migrated to the city, which would be the
Latino.
came to the migrated to the city, which would be the Latino
community and they getting 20% now.
community and they getting 20% now 22 22% Thank you, Mr.
Blake Moore.
Blake Moore how
and what is all the rest of that?
And what is all the rest of that runoff go? If not into
these communities that they speak about?
these communities that they speak about marginalized
impoverished. That's Rosalind. That's Engel.
impoverished. That's Rosalind. That's Englewood. That's the
Austin area. These are histor.
Austin area. These are historic.
the most
The most impoverished downtrodden unders sir.
The most impoverished downtrodden underserved communities
and yet we in the we in this room right now.
and yet we in the we in this room right now y'all talking
about equity.
Except right now here. This is 2 jobs that I worked.
Except right now here. This is 2 jobs that I worked and we
talk about Dei.
diversity equity and inclusion that
it does not entail this group of people black.
it does not entail this group of people black Americans.
But it has been.
But it has been enacted and it has been utilized.
But it has been enacted and it has been utilized to build
up other nations.
because
Because we see that in that number of 2%
That's the representation for black.
That's the representation for black Americans for a group
that's been in this city.
That represent what that's the only represent.
That represent what that's the only representation and so
we see it when we go into the workforce.
we see it when we go into the workforce all also.
where you fighting to just
Where you fighting to just exist and do work?
Where you fighting to make a meager wage?
versus when you should be included when
Versus when you should be included when you should have
some Equitable representation.
some Equitable representation also.
But we not getting that.
so in this room that this
asks today for whatever everybody.
asks today for whatever everybody's agreeing in.
How can we agree? How can we be in agreement with this if it
does not represent?
does not represent represent us in an equitable fashion, we
can't.
We can't be in agreement.
not Black America
because we don't see anything how 2% of that.
How does that work even in any of these?
How does that work even in any of these neighborhoods
Austin, Englewood?
Austin Englewood Rosalind? How does it help to Aid the
current?
current conditions?
That's
thank you. Thank you. Thank.
thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
Mr. Sams Mr. Blake Moore
and and you should it's not no. Good morning. Good
afternoon.
this needs
This needs more supposed to start 30 minutes came out of.
still don't think you have a code on here, but I'm not
gonna take.
gonna take the issue with you, but you're a part of the
problem.
Economic Development
contracts and
comply
black lives matter
It must not.
it must not matter here seeing you black FAQ.
it must not matter here seeing you Black Faces here.
And no people only.
And no people only get 2% of our contracts are.
And no people only get 2% of our contracts. Are you 2% of
the population of the city?
You're a loser you're losing.
You're a loser. You're losing the population game because
some of your vertical.
some of your vertical sanctuary.
Somebody has to come in.
Somebody has to come in and this place you.
Somebody has to come in and this place you the job goes
contracts and services.
this
This is disgraceful, and they have not died for.
This is disgraceful, and they have not died for to to make
you.
the sermon of this committee
and when I brought back to your opinion you say yes and
it's sad and you said you gonna make a change you got?
it's sad and you said you gonna make a change you got to be
a super lady to do this.
a super super
A super super black ultimate to do with you you don't bring
this.
this problem here.
hopefully you can increase
Hopefully you can increase to to 3 4 5.
Hopefully you can increase to to 3 4 5 6 7 group percent is
unaccept.
unacceptable if this graceful.
Is this grace and this is why?
Is this grace and this is why I think black people are
waking up going.
waking up going to go to the Republic make a way.
waking up going to go to the Republic make a way bringing
another people in here to compete with us.
another people in here to compete with us, and we only have
skin 2% of these contracts from the city.
not from private into
Not from private into the the city.
these Hispanic
These Hispanic help each other.
They work together.
they work together and if somebody comes and
They work together and if somebody comes and can't read or
don't know how to navigate the system. They help them they
have organiz.
have organizations.
do
Do you feel what I feel?
Are you black?
Do you?
Do you feel the page and the suffering when I got?
information 2%
from 1 of the worst of Lords
from 1 of the worst of those that work there that Mr.
Blakemore did you know?
Blakemore did you know recurring that's only get 2%
told Mr. Blakemore because Mr. Blakemore got a big mouth
and a big heart for black people.
and I
2%
and but it's headed by Hispanic lady.
and her people get 22% and the
And her people get 22% and the other 75% goes to the White.
And her people get 22% and the other 75% goes to the white
man.
the white
the White lives matter
black lives matter
the suffering the crime the pain we have endured in
America.
The legacy of slavery is still.
The legacy of slavery is still here.
So I dare you for.
So I dare you for such that silence me. Let me say what you
great say.
that you
That you won't say for whatever motivate.
That you won't say for whatever motivate you to not say it
now. I will be seated.
good disgrace the
Good, that's great.
Thank you, Mr. Blake.
Thank you, Mr. Blakemore. Next. We have Miss Theresa huge.
Thank you, Mr. Blakemore. Next. We have Miss Theresa. Huge
TJ huge.
Good afternoon.
Good afternoon, committee chairwoman and committee members.
My name is Teresa Hughes.
And I'm here.
And I'm here because I have a vested interest.
and I'm here because I have a vested interest in this uh
Community contracts oversight and equity
I am formerly, um see a Chicago.
I am formerly, um see a Chicago employee from the days of
the great and greatest mayor. We have ever had mayor Hill,
Washington. He was a mentor.
and uh he
had
he went through a lot of stuff to make black people.
he went through a lot of stuff to make black people get a
possible get a piece of the pie.
possible get a piece of the pie in construction and
professional.
Professional Services. I not I'm not telling you what I
heard. I'm telling you what I know.
heard. I'm telling you what I know because I was there in
the trenches with him.
the trenches with him and Troy ratliffe and
Carney's Carrie who um and also
Carney's Carrie who um, and also Betty Perry from the
county.
I think that what is going on now is just absolutely
disgraceful. Oh.
disgraceful.
uh, because
There was a a gentleman that Alderman Alder.
there was a a gentleman that Alderman Alderman Lopez who?
Put out. Um
an ordinance or
An ordinance or he tried to make an ordinance during the
last?
last chairs rain which was uh, Irv.
last chairs rain which was uh Irving.
And it just from what I understand.
And it just from what I understand sat in the committee.
alderman
Alderman Lopez, which is a Hispanic
Alderman Lopez which is a Hispanic. Um alderman
Brought before the committee.
Um
33% that he said should have went to black people. Yeah.
Yeah. Yeah, but from what I understand it.
Yeah. Yeah, but from what I understand it just sat and sat
and sat in the committee and so now Irving is no longer the
chair but
chair, but you are madame.
chair and uh, I love you, you know that and I want to help
you to
do what it is that you said that you were going to do.
far as black people.
um, I'm from
Um, I'm from the south raising the South but I've been in
Chicago for over.
Chicago for over 50 years I come from a very strong.
political background with my mother who was RA for housing
in
and Urban Development. She came out of the projects down
south. So we have a special
um
feeling for
downright misfortunate people. I don't really care if you
black white or whatever.
but I do care about
But I do care about my people first because we have been.
last for 2. I mean for 2.
last for 2. I mean for 2 long so I I'm here today. Most of
you Alderman I
you Alderman. I know except I don't know you new ones. But
like I said, I worked in City Hall.
like I said, I worked in City Hall for over 30 years. I
know Alderman ter. I know Alderman Mitchell and um
You know even her ottoman Irv.
You know even her ottoman Irving and I'm just curious as to
how he got.
how he got to sit on the committee that you're heading now.
now Madam chair when he didn't do anything.
now Madam chair when he didn't do anything when he was the
chair before you got here.
chair before you got here, so I'm curious about that and I
have made my
feelings known to throughout
Feelings known to throughout the newspapers. Thank thank
you, but your time is up.
you. But your time is up. Oh, oh, that's my ringing. That
is your ring.
I'm sorry. Thank you very much for your comments. Thank
you.
that will
That will end our public comments of speakers for today.
Thank you all for participating.
Uh, we have 3 items on the agenda for today.
first
First let's establish a re-establish a quorum.
Um
she said do
so we need to
So we need to establish a point.
Y'all gotta stop telling me.
To stop telling me stuff if you don't want me to do it.
People are calling.
something evil here something
Evil here something disgraceful here.
They don't have a pro you.
They don't have a pro. You got 5 I've been in Memphis got at
least 5.
least 5 press and you can't have somebody else to
least 5 press and you can't have somebody else on the
commission.
to fill in said you see
To fill in said you see something wrong here or am I crazy?
people don't
People don't work yet.
We are scared.
We are scared of them. They not serving us.
Miss nearly back in the room
Jamie Neely, uh, I'm going to call you back.
Jamie Neely, uh, I'm going to call you back up. You have
stepped out during our public comment.
stepped out during our public comment period
uh, who was it?
Who was it that stepped out?
And you have not testified yet.
Are you Jamie? Why don't you come on in and testify?
Are you Jamie? Why don't you come on in and testify but we
will not proceed with uh conned.
will not proceed with uh conduct business until I make sure
we have a quorum. I let my um public comments.
speakers finished speaking up
Uh, thank you chairman mitts, uh for the res.
uh, thank you chairman mitts, uh for the resolution but
also for your continued support and commitment to equity
and Contracting. Hello esteemed.
and Contracting. Hello esteemed all the persons and
Department leadership. I am Jamie.
Department leadership. I am Jamie neie the executive
director of the Federation of women contractors.
As the FWC.
As the FWC commemorates its 35th Anniversary this year.
are reminded of the journey we've navigated alongside.
are reminded of the journey we've navigated alongside the
evolution of the minority and women and disadvantages.
business Enterprise programs our organiz.
business Enterprise programs. Our organization understands
intimately the transform transformative power of these
initiatives in fost.
initiatives in fostering Equitable opportunities within our
local econom.
local economy.
These programs ensure that minorities.
These programs ensure that minorities and women owned
businesses have Equitable access.
businesses have Equitable access to government contracts
and procurement opportunities.
and the success of these programs directly INF
And the success of these programs directly influence the
overall health of our economy.
overall health of our economy promoting Innovation job
creation.
creation and Community Investments by empowering marginal.
marginalized groups with the resources and support needed
to thrive in the business landscape.
as we G
As We Gather here for the Contracting oversight and Equity
hearing we urge you to prioritize equity and fairness and
contract
Contracting and Workforce Development initiatives it
Contracting and Workforce Development initiatives. It is
imperative that we remain steadfast in our commitment to
dismantling barriers.
dismantling barriers and fostering an environment where all
businesses.
businesses regardless of race regardless of
Size and ownership can contribute to the prosper.
Size and ownership can contribute to the prosperity of our
city.
on behalf of the
On behalf of the FWC board of directors. Thank you for your
support.
support on this resolution and we anticipate your conten.
support and advancing equity and inkless.
the city of Chicago Contracting. Thank you.
Thank you, Miss. Uh Neely.
uh, Miss Sandy
Leno
okay.
Good afternoon. I'm I'm Sandy.
Good afternoon. I'm I'm Sandy and I'm proud to be vice
president of the board of directors.
president of the board of directors of fascia.
And I'd like to Cong.
And I'd like to congratulate you for putting forth this
resolution.
Because I have been working or I will.
because I have been working or I will be starting my 45th
year in this area of trying to find.
year in this area of trying to find Equity parody, uh Level
Playing Field.
Playing Field for women and minority.
Playing Field for women and minority in in Contracting.
and I can tell you that I
And I can tell you that I have seen a lot of changes when I
started in May of.
started in May of 1980. I worked in 2 government AG.
managing these programs.
And 13 years ago. I retired to continue on my own as a
consultant to work in. Um
what it was a Dei as they call it.
what it was a Dei as they call it right now and the early
days we didn't have very many.
days we didn't have very many contractors and the ones that
we did have.
we did have were relegated to being subcontractors. I'm
I'm proud to say that having worked in this area for many
years. I've seen changes where our subcontractors have.
become Prime contractors some of our Prime contracts.
become Prime contractors. Some of our Prime contracts have
graduated from the programs and not only have we seen
growth in that area, but
growth in that area. But now we're looking at training
people we
people. We really didn't pay as much attention as we should
have in the past.
have in the past but the fast past 5 or 6 years we're
getting our communities making a livable way.
getting our communities making a livable wage and I find it
appalling.
appalling to think that someone would want to take this
away.
away from us.
Studies have been done in the Chicago land area over the
past few years disparity stud.
past few years disparity studies that still show that there
is a tremendous.
is a tremendous disparity and these programs are nessus.
is a tremendous disparity and these programs are necessary.
So again, I congrat.
So again, I congratulate the council for taking up this.
this this action because I would
This this action because I would find it extremely
devastating both for a cont.
devastating both for a contractors.
engine Professional Service firms and now
prohibiting people from making a living wage, so
Prohibiting people from making a living wage. So thank you
for your time. Thank you.
All right now.
You want to think?
You want to think uh, um speakers for the public comment.
You want to think uh, um speakers for the public comments.
We're now going to move with the agenda. We have 3 items on
the agenda today.
the agenda today, and the first item is to approve.
monthly roof 45 report.
We're approving from June.
We're approving from June 20203 through December 202.
We're approving from June 20203 through December 2023 and
June 2024.
June 2024 to March 2024. Uh
June 2024 to March 2024, uh committee on contracts.
oversight and equ
Oversight and Equity, can I get a motion to approve?
So moved by a a v All In
So moved by a V all in favor signify by saying I I I motion
is passed.
Um
next item on the agenda item number 2
R20 024
R 2024 Dash 0000000 8330
an expression of support
for and called on us Cong
for and called on US Congress to protect the United States
Department.
Department of Transportation this advantage
Department of Transportation disadvantaged business
entrepreneurial program.
This this was brought to my
this this was brought to my attention as we um the
sponsored or
sponsored Ormond, uh resolution is ottoman.
sponsored Ormond, uh resolution is ottoman mitts.
uh your chair
Uh your chair and each 1 of you have a copy of the
resolution.
resolution if you've been hearing, um that this program
could be very, uh close to being in Jeopardy and we don't
want to lose our status as we need to make sure that we are
included uh in this program.
included, uh in this program and I think that it's a great
program.
program, but
uh if we look at
Uh, if we look at the government now and the federal
government.
government, uh, trying to disband it is very Central that
we make sure that we are.
we make sure that we are preserving the program and we'll
call it on our Congressman. Uh,
call it on our Congressman, uh to to make sure that this
does not happen and we urge them to take action to protect
the program.
um as MBE dbe program
Um as MBE dbe program overall, do we have any questions?
the uh the resolution
uh
ottoman Vice chair of
thank you chairwoman mitz not even a question. I don't
think there's questions left after the testimony that we
got.
got in this room, and I'm very glad
got in this room and I'm very glad right for all all of the
women and men.
women and men who spoke here because I all all
women and men who spoke here because I all I'll say things
that I feel like are on me to say as a a white man on this
committee.
committee that when it comes to Contracting and procure.
procurement, I feel like racism and discrimination.
procurement. I feel like racism and discrimination is the
water you swim in it is invisible. It is pervasive and it
is a strong current and the fact that you all have been as
successful.
successful in this field as you have been is a testimony to
some incredible ten.
some incredible tenacity and persistence on all of your
behalf. And I will also say it it's a it's sad and
frustrating when we we pit
black and female and Latino mwbe against each other because
the only person who wins from that Discord is white
contractors.
contractors, let's all be really real about that. Um,
No 1 No 1 wins
No 1 No, 1 wins No 1 benefits in this room from their disc
Discord Miss Gomez when you talked about we hire people who
look like us it's so true and I I say that as someone who's
witnessed that who understands how implicit bias, uh, plus
power equals discrimination.
power equals discrimination, and I'm glad that we're
standing against that and I I hope that this is a a call-in
rather.
rather than a call out to secretary Buddha judge who
know understands these Dynamics and I hope that he is
fighting as hard to preserve.
fighting as hard to preserve this program as the rest of
us. Thank you so much for being here with us today. Thank
you chair. Thank you vice versa.
Are there any other comments?
Not can I get a motion to recommend approval?
so moved by um about a Mitchell all in favor signify by
saying I I
independent of the chairs the eyes have it. The report is
approved and will be passed out.
approved and will be passed out at city council meeting on
um
April 17
a next item on the agenda
item item number 02002
item item number 02024 D 00000 8352
an ordinance to execute of Master service agreement with
data made.
data made LLC for research design.
data made LLC for research design development.
hosting and supporting support of public face scene
hosting and supporting support of public face seen
application regarding planning
application regarding Planning Development and Zoning
development process.
development processes and other City oper.
development processes and other City operation.
sponsored by mayor
sponsored by Mayor Johnson
then Department of Planning Development and Technology
Innovation.
Um we have
Nick Lucas
and uh Robert Diggins
if you would comment this time.
And there from data May LLC.
Actually Madam chair. Um, it's Kath.
Actually Madam chair. Um, it's Kathy dick from development
and Nick Lucius from technology and innovation.
Thank you. You may proceed with your testimony. Thank you.
Um
Good afternoon.
Good afternoon, um chair 1 ms and members of the committee.
Um, so today, um you have in front.
Um, so today, um you have in front of you this um requests
for authority to enter.
for authority to enter into contract with the firm data
made. I just want to provide a little context. Um before we
get into the details. Um, the city has a contract with data
made. Um,
made, um already that was approved by city council a few
years back. Um dpd is the department that um has entered
into a contract with data made. Um, and um,
into a contract with data made. Um, and um for 1 thing I
want to say is this is less of a technology and IT contract
and more of a um a
and more of a um, a resident, um feedback and us
and more of a um, a resident, um, feedback and user Center
design contract. And so, um, we're not looking at
traditional IT services. We have a whole bunch of
contractors. We normally use for that kind of work. This is
very different. Um, and then secondly, um,
together for this 1 to combine technology and innovation.
and um Planning and Development to recognize that the
this firm works and the products that it makes this is how
we want to work. Um, and we're taking this opportunity.
To make a proposal to um, learn. Um
to make a proposal to um, learn, um as a department as we
staff up our department as we um, uh get going we want to
um, um, get some services that help not only us support dpd
and there.
and their um Avenues, but do work like this for the city as
a whole. Um, so I just want to provide that introduction.
I'll hand it over to Kath.
I'll hand it over to Kathy to to go further. All right.
Thank you. Uh, Kathy. All right. I'm just gonna go through
a few.
a few slides here. Okay to explain what where what DP?
a few slides here. Okay to explain what where what dpd is
looking to do? And then what DTI is looking to do. So, um,
if any of you have looked at the department,
development's websites, we have a lot of them. Um,
development's websites, we have a lot of them, um, and
they're mostly not connected to each other.
they're mostly not connected to each other and they're also
usually
uh a backwards looking
Uh a backwards looking right? They're telling you what has
happened. For example.
happened. For example, the zoning web page shows you
everything that has been resand. Um, but what we talk a lot
a little bit about and planning is it's not showing you
what's going to be happening where where it's going to be
moving so we would like to um,
moving. So we would like to um, improve our technology so
that we can have forward-facing connections between um,
the types of work that dpd does which is substantial, right
we
right? We do a lot of lot with zoning. We have a lot of
public engagement meetings. Um, ideally we would like
have a calendar where you could find out any department on
public meetings, so you're not like well,
division or this beer looking at so this is this
we're at where we'd like to become more Pro.
more forward facing a more connected and as Nick said, uh
going to be really easy for people to find what they want.
We have looked at.
We have looked at other cities. Um, and we do need we
see that we are not quite at the same place that other
cities are so like for example, New York has an
Interactive.
map showing the status of current development projects.
Well again, what we're showing is only what's been
approved.
Boston has online has a developer portal.
Boston has online has a developer portal and guide guides
applicants on um, submitting we
applicants on um, submitting. We are still taking some
paper copies for submissions.
paper copies for submissions for zoning. Um, and again Los
Angeles has an online calendar where all the public
meetings can be reviewed. Uh, we have various websites
showing a different uh public.
showing a different, uh, public meeting for a different uh,
topic or Department.
uh, topic or Department. Um, and also online scheduling
we'd like other places Los Angeles, they're doing online
scheduling. We are still doing meetings call in you get a
meeting. So these are just some of the examples of the
techn.
technology and the way the the public is inter.
with their city government and other places
So what we are talking about are basically 3 go.
so what we are talking about are basically 3 goals and these
are goals both from Department of planning and from
technology and Innovation. Uh, we want to
experience of cities customers, which are elect.
experience of cities customers, which are elected officials
Community groups residents businesses.
Community groups residents businesses, uh business owners
and developers based on their goals and challenges and they
can talk about that in a minute. Uh, we want to centralize
calendars as I said and uh for all of the commissions that
dpd handles which are quite a few and then the last 1 is
really, um, not that the other 2 aren't uh DTI, but is more
what DTI does I'll turn that over to Nick. Thanks, Kathy.
the um this last 1 is really about how we use our Data
Systems in order to um, actually achieve outcomes that
matter for you and for residents. Um, so, um, we're going
to focus on um on on using data analysis and visualization.
focus on um on on using data analysis and visualization and
services in order to um, provide more information to
Residents about what's happening make these websites work
better. Um, and
this Beyond dpd and be able to do this kind of work for
other.
other departments. So just um a little bit about how we're
going to do this. So we would like to as uh, the chairman
said enter into Master agreement with data made a
consultancy.
consultancy that um is really about Civic Tech. And again
Nick if you want to just explain what that is.
Nick if you want to just explain what that is sure. Um
Civic Tech, um is really a movement that happened
organically in our communities, um about 10 years ago or
so, um, where
People who worked in um technology. Um
People who worked in um technology, um as an industry saw
that government had a needed a lot of work in this area.
that government had a needed a lot of work in this area and
they banded together themselves in rooms just like this and
said, how can we use our skills in order to?
said, how can we use our skills in order to um help
government out. Um and what?
government out. Um, and what what has turned into today is
really a um symbiotic relationship.
really a um symbiotic relationship where firms like this.
Um, like there's an entire firm, um that employees people
where all they do is this kind of work. Um, and so that's a
little bit about Civic Tech.
Um, and so again we started
Um, and so again, we started working dpd started working
with dat of a back in 2014 actually after uh, teamwork
Englewood an organization in Englewood.
Englewood an organization in Englewood, um, the learned
that the way we were selling property, they couldn't they
couldn't figure it out.
couldn't figure it out on our static website. So basically
they um, they hired data made and we eventually took over
that that platform that they developed and then we've
subsequently uh expand
subsequently, uh expanded that into the shy black Builder,
um website and then Dave made also worked on the Chicago,
Chicago.
Chicago recovery plan website. Um, so the ordinance
basically authorizes both departments,
basically authorizes both departments to enter into Master
Consulting agreements. Um,
Consulting agreements, um, which will include commitments
to 25 MBA and 5 w.
to 25 MBA and 5 wbe um, did I say MBA MBE? Um, so the dpd
scope is again trans digital tools for in
transparency and accountability of the Planning Development
and Zoning processes.
that the department enters into we have
That the department enters into we have a looking at a
5-year term. So we want to do this over.
5-year term. So we want to do this overtime, uh with and
we'll just mention the engagement in a minute out of our
regular.
regular, um, operating budget and DTI has a little bit of a
different scope but aligned
so it's ultimately data strategy Consulting and we're
prototyping which again this gets that capacity building
for city employees. Um and has a 3-year term not to exceed.
Um 1,350
um, 1,350, um with an option to extend for 3 years.
The that are the basic stuff, but we do have dat.
and they do have some of their team that they're looking
at.
at, um bringing on and I would just say um and Nick and
expound on this as well in order to figure out exactly what
we want to show the public what data we want to get out
there. We need to talk to the public and that would be all
the um all the organizations.
the um, all the organizations and people before we do it.
So that's a big part of the process. It's not just building
Tech. It's really understanding how people what people are
looking for what the public is looking for. And how do we
get that information? Um,
get that information, um into websites and into platforms
so that they can easily find it and I I'll just add we we
don't have um, we don't currently have the Capac
this type of work or the skills or knowledge of exper.
um at this scale and we also don't have contracts that are
set up where this is part of the process and so through
this vehicle. We're actually building up. Um, uh, we're
building up,
building up the ability to do.
This and I think we're creating.
This and I think we're creating an an industry in the city.
Um that that isn't really um,
um that that isn't really um, um fully matured.
Are you doing yes, thank you all very.
Are you doing yes, thank you all very much for your
presentation. Um and I have to say that I'm very enlight.
enlightened to know that we're going to look at.
enlightened to know that we're going to look at technology
that can really make it more. Um, um,
that can really make it more, um transparent across this
city.
Where we can navigate?
Where we can navigate without having to go out of every
single.
single Department to find what you need. And anyone that
has some data.
has some data that can help us, uh in that area.
has some data that can help us, uh in that area in
particular with the contracts.
particular with the contracts as we are you just heard
regard.
regarding the minority status.
um
We want to be able to track that information.
in a timely manner without having to
In a timely manner without having to wait forever.
To just get those numbers.
Um my
um my colleague, um
ottoman n
Ottoman Nugent. Thank you chairman. Um just a couple quick
questions. Can you go back 1 slide for me?
this 1
is
Is data made?
a private company
A private company. I I didn't understand the slide. Can you
oh, yes, they are. They are private. Okay, because I
thought they were it look.
thought they were it looked like dpd acquired it. Oh, I'm
sorry, so
sorry. So dated the private company. Okay back in 2014.
They developed a platform.
They developed a platform we acquired that license. Got it.
Okay, and then I expanded it.
Okay, and then I expanded it that makes more sense and then
is did.
is did other companies bid for this. Did we put an RFP out
for this?
for this or how did or the 1 in 2014 or sorry about?
for this or how did or the 1 in 2014 or sorry about now, so
help me understand so when we do a master
agreement is is that different than an RF?
agreement is is that different than an RFP like when we do
a RFP to do get enter a contract with somebody what's the
difference between a master service agreement and a
contract?
or an RFP
Or an RFP for a contract. So the the the RFP is a
solicitation vehicle. Um, and then the master Consulting
agreement is is just a contract and so when um, it's being
set up this way.
set up this way because um it kind of to the theme of
hard to know exactly what you're going to do before you get
in and do the um resident research. Okay, um, it's set up
so that we can do pieces of work. Um and say, okay that's
done.
We want to do another piece.
We want to do another piece of work. Um and and but it's
just what data made it's not with other firms. Did we?
Okay, so I'm just curious did we put in r
Okay, so I'm just curious did we put in RFP out for venters
to apply to do this work? Not for this. Uh, not for this
work. There's um, there's really um, no other firm.
work. There's um, there's really um, no other firms that
um, we know of that um, does this kind of work at all in
this in the city of Chicago? Um, or
this in the city of Chicago? Um or and this firm, um,
just on City of Chicago area Civic user engagement types of
projects.
Okay, um and just this is just so I can understand it. So
is this
I I'm just um, I don't have as much experience in master
service agreement.
service agreements. Is this a sole source for a master?
service agreement? Is that how you it's more or less the
same thing? Yeah, just a a contract with uh an
A entity that there are it.
A entity that there are it is a soul. It's sort of like a
soul Source. But yeah, that's the way the
soul Source. But yeah, that's the way that that was written
in the master consultant agreement would be like a soul
sour
Source contract. Okay, and then just um
if d
If dpd and DTI are both entering an m.
If dpd and DTI are both entering an msas.
with this group
With this group then do you each review your deliverables
separately?
separately to see if they're filling like, how does can you
just walk me through that bit?
you just walk me through that bit well, so there would be 2
different contracts 1 with DTI 1 with dpd so dpd would be
looking at its deliverables and DTI, but I would say that
they were gonna they relate.
they were gonna they relate to each other but the actual
deliverables will have 2 different. Um
people responsible for making them happen
Okay, this is helpful. Thank you for that and
Okay, this is helpful. Thank you for that. And thank you
madam. Chairwoman.
Thank you. Thank you very much. Uh Armand Nugent.
look, I I have um ottoman Mitchell and then um
Look, I I have um ottoman Mitchell and then um Armand Moore
to be counted as present.
to be counted as present for toe at the quorum.
to be counted as present for toe at the Quorum as
non-member. Um, but I wanted to ask you a question, uh
surrounding and so on housing
as part of
uh
your caption that the data
What would be able to?
The Constitution to be able to look until what?
The Constitution to be able to look until what the zoning
is going to be for.
is going to be for land use.
Uh rather than calling us saying well, what is this?
Uh rather than calling us and well, what is his zone for
you'll have that information? Yeah, I the way we're
thinking about it is that
thinking about it. Is that for um City's got some land
they're going to sell it.
they're going to sell it somebody um, they will be able to
see the existing zoning, but if something is approved,
let's just say and
just say and they the applicant wants to change the zoning
that information.
that information is going to be out there in the public
they'll be able to see that so before it's built they would
be able to see and before it's built and put on the zoning
page you would be able to see oh this
page you would be able to see oh, this is going to change
to let's just say uh from a
to let's just say, uh from a R1, you know single family to
uh, uh 4 flat or something so they'll know that in advance.
as opposed to all of a sudden 1 day how many years do you
think that you are able to go?
think that you are able to go back and bring the technology
up to?
up to date?
for us I I would suggest that's going to um
For us I I would suggest that's going to um depend on what
we're looking at data.
we're looking at data for.
So, I mean, I don't know what the date is I do.
So, I mean, I don't know what the date is. I do know that
we will have to do some back-end work.
we will have to do some back-end work to get our data in
right shape so we can put it.
right shape so we can put it on in the public domain and
we've seen that happen. Do you have a mindset in time?
like I get I think it's going to be an iterative.
like I get I think it's going to be an iterative process.
We're going to start we're going to okay for for example,
if we talked to all the elders and they think I don't know
3 sets of data are the most important and we'll start
working on those. Okay?
working on those. Okay. All right, uh ottoman Mitchell
Thank you mad.
Thank you. Madam. Thank you madam. Chair. Um
so let me start by saying I appreciate the the goals and
the vision. Um, I think we do.
In order to be a world-class City. We need to have the
technology.
technology to support us. So I I appreciate that. Um my
technology to support us. So I I appreciate that. Um, my my
my concern is how we get there.
And it's kind of ironic. We just left the
technology meeting we were talking about this.
technology meeting we were talking about this so
just
Just to add Clarity to uh Ott.
Just to add Clarity to uh ottoman nuggets question.
This was not put out.
This was not put out for RFP.
Correct. Just put in cliff and uh C.
Correct. Just put in cliff and uh CIO you had mentioned
that uh,
There weren't that many or any other.
There weren't that many or any others.
That with the expertise to get this.
That with the expertise to get this accomplished. I don't
want to I want I don't want to put words.
want to I want I don't want to put words in your mouth so
good right? It's a unique.
I I want to call it industry space. It's um, I I know of no
other
Company that combines. Um
Doing this kind of work regularly having a portfolio.
Doing this kind of work regularly having a portfolio of
doing it over and over and over again.
doing it over and over and over again having it be Chicago
focused and growing out of the um, Chicago specific Tech
Grassroots.
Grassroots movement.
I I do trust the Judgment that you have but kind of help us
out.
out when you say
they want what kind of effort that you put in to kind of
make that.
make that final decide that this was the 1 we need to go
because no 1 else was was comparable or No 1 else could do
this.
this understood in fair question. I a big part of it.
this understood in fair question. I a big part of it is the
um,
um that this has already happened the um that uh, um
Authority for a contract with data made, um had been sought
by dpd.
The city council granted the authority they engaged in the
work.
work and started doing this exact kind of work.
work and started doing this exact kind of work in the past.
Um, and so, um when we
Um, and so um, when we first started taking a look at this,
um, it was through the lens.
um, it was through the lens of um reauthorization for what
was out of your, you know, continuing the work. Um, we've
got more to do um, and um,
got more to do um, and um and seeking some authority to um
fix that and basically, um also saw it as as um,
That opportunity that there's no other.
that opportunity that there's no other Avenue to do this
kind of work that in in in just in oh all the everything
we've done.
we've done with um our assessment with Gartner. Um,
we've done with um our assessment with Gartner, um our
constantly keeping up with um, who who does what and what
all all the types of Industries and vehicles are um, and so
I I can I mean I can say it's it's partly in that it's just
experience and and having done this work with the firm
already and built products.
already and built products and built products with lots of
of other entities. Um,
of other entities, um, and and knowledge
of
Of the industry. Um, and um, and that's how the decision
was. Okay arrived at that that that's reasonable. Um, so
data made has had been working with the city of Chicago
since I'm sorry 201
Um, well they've worked on City of Chicago ISS.
um, well they've worked on City of Chicago issues issues
before that for the city of so they started doing they
built something in 201.
built something in 2014 that for the community that DP.
started using right away. The contract was 20.
started using right away. The contract was 2020 first 1
that Nick was
that Nick is referring to is 2022. I believe. Oh 2022. Yes.
Okay, and this might be a question for Taylor Made to
answer. So in 2022 because I noticed that we have there's
language in here.
language in here about the participation goals mb2.
language in here about the participation goals mb25 wb5
percent.
in
In 2022 was that met?
so ugh good question so that we did not have those goals in
there at the time because we were taking it was a little
bit of a different.
bit of a different contract. It was more we were buying
their license.
their license to have them improve it but as we talked
about this 1 we're like we got to have those goals in
these, okay.
these. Okay, our appreciate that. Um, okay.
these. Okay, our appreciate that. Um, okay the data made,
uh,
Uh, what is the makeup of your company? I see the the 3
partners
Partners a third a third a third. What about employees?
Partners a third a third a third what about employees? What
do we look like as far as diversity?
Good afternoon. I'm Derek eater. I'm a partner at datamade.
Uh, and also the founder. Um, so we're uh, our composition
is as you mentioned. Yeah, we have 3 Partners. Um 1 of them
is woman.
is woman, uh, and then 2 white males and then our staff.
is woman, uh, and then 2 white males and then our staff we
have um, uh, we're actually not a huge company. We're 6
full-time staff. Uh, and we have African-American hispan.
uh and a white person as the other 3 staff.
uh and a white person as the other 3 staff in the company.
Okay. Thank you for that. Um,
the
not I'm sorry not this goes back to C.
Not I'm sorry not this goes back to CIO. Okay. I'll be
right here. Okay, sorry, but sorry about the music, okay?
um just for cl cl cl
um just for clarity clear clarification. Um, you mentioned
that your contract you're looking for Prototype you
consultation everything so with an anticipated goal with
the goal of adding another what 80 to the staff are we
looking to have these guys?
looking to have these guys trained up them so we won't need
them in the future and at that same time we'll be looking
at diversity.
at diversity to make sure that's a diverse Workforce. I'm
sorry to say Derek. Uh, no we
sorry to say Derek. Uh know we've talked about this. That
is absolutely the plan. Okay. Um,
absolutely the plan. Okay, um to um, as we as we hire a
diverse,
diverse Workforce, um, this gives us access to the
the business to be able to do. Um,
Chicago in focused resident engaged work to make sure that
the things that we build work for the people that we serve.
Okay. Okay. Um, I I feel um that I can come back to either
1 of you guys ask questions.
1 of you guys ask questions later so I won't be later the
point, but I think you both know.
point but I think you both know where where Mike went line
of question is, uh, we want to make sure and definitely get
the vision and I appreciate that.
the vision and I appreciate that definitely appreciate
about that about what you're trying to do.
about that about what you're trying to do, but we want to
make sure we always press to ensure that we have a that
diversity.
diversity, uh, that that that Workforce and whether it be
in the department city as a whole and anything we do to
reflect, you know, the city of Chicago. Um, and I'm the
final thing. I'll say is more like a request definitely
keep us up to date on your go on your progress toward the
20 the NBA participation.
NBA participation and of course the projects as a whole
hole. All right. Thank you chip. Thank you guys.
you. I'm Vice chair.
you. I'm Vice chair of the sparrow followed by ottoman
Moore.
and that will be
thank you very much. I'll be I'll be really brief if
there's an irony.
there's an irony that.
the committee on zoning can't start until we finish this
meeting but I I
meeting. But I I know of data made more than you all. I
know your team. Why are we talking to you all specifically
to?
to to quote Liam niss. You have a very particular.
to to quote Liam niss. You have a very particular set of
skills skills that you have acquired over a very long
career particularly.
career particularly some of your partners in the room and
that's what I appreciate the the level of competence
developed like shown over.
developed like shown over time for making data access.
and understandable to those who need it.
There's literally only 1 thing that you could do that
would.
There's literally only 1 thing that you could do that would
disappoint me is if you came to us first.
disappoint me is if you came to us first and foremost to
understand the data, that should be made accessible. I say
this very truthfully.
this very truthfully come to the people who come out to our
community Zahn.
community zoning meetings even more than that. Come to the
people who don't come to those meetings to understand what?
what are the blocks for their particip?
what are the blocks for their participation? Don't come to
those who are already understands the systems.
those who are already understands the systems right? Come
to those who don't that is that is my 1 piece of
encouragement and accountability.
encouragement and accountability that I would bring to you
for this process, but thank you.
for this process. But thank you so much for agreeing to
partner with the city in this work. Thank you cheer.
Thank you, uh ottoman more.
Unfortunately, I don't sit on this committee. Although I
used to be Vice chair, but when administrations changed BS
happens, right?
happens, right, but anyway, uh, this committee is near.
happens, right, but anyway, uh, this committee is near and
dear to my heart. That's why I show up to these meetings.
Um, first of all, uh,
app is hard for me, um to
App is hard for me, um to buy into the fact that there's no
1 that's out.
1 that's out there or that no 1 that you can even join
Venture with um, and I don't think there's a person up here
that has vetted that or or talked to.
that has vetted that or or talk to any subject matter
experts, um out in the industry.
experts, um out in the industry to see if it is or if it
isn't, um,
isn't um and
and the fact that you said, I don't believe there is or I
don't know that there is versus definitely there is nobody
else. Um gives me um concern and um the fact that this is
contract oversight.
contract oversight and Equity. I think we need to do that
due diligence and talking to some of the um, subject matter
experts.
experts and and get their opinions on this. Uh, I'm just
reminded of a situation out at O'Hare.
reminded of a situation out at O'Hare, uh, where there was
only 1 group throughout this whole country.
only 1 group throughout this whole country that um,
certain type of work out at O'Hare. I won't say the project
and until they were challenged to put an African-American
on there. Um, because everybody said,
on there. Um, because everybody said nobody else can do the
work, but they ended up joint venturing.
work, but they ended up joint venturing and that is not not
as companies out there doing work.
as companies out there doing work, um throughout this
country. Um,
um as this other company did
um, as this other company did who we said was the only 1
that could do it and so
that could do it. And so I I I on Wednesday, I wouldn't
feel comfortable.
feel comfortable, um voting on this unless we had that
opportunity.
opportunity to do our due diligence you may be
opportunity to do our due diligence. You may be 100% right,
but I don't know that I don't know that and so I I think
this I think this committee's got to do is due diligence
chairman if you've talked to people
chairman. If you've talked to people already then I'm going
to trust you. Um, but if no 1 has talked to anybody
already, um out there and
already, um out there in the industry to to verify this.
I'm a
a person of I trust but I verify and I just can't just
trust the word of what I'm being told here and you may be
again you may be right, but I hope someone I want to do the
due diligence and I don't know if anyone on this committee
has done that and if they have tell me and I'll I'll take
your word for it.
So I'm not hearing that so I can't make a motion to.
So I'm not hearing that so I can't make a motion to hold
this item. Did I respond you can
this item. Did I respond? You can no. No. No, I'm sorry. I
can't say that. That's the chairman. No. No. Um, all right.
Thank you very much. Um Alderman Moore. Thank you very much
for your comments. And um,
for your comments and um your concerns, but yes, I did meet
with the group. Uh, I had a lengthy uh conversation.
with the group. Uh, I had a lengthy uh conversation with
um,
both, uh Department of planning, uh administr
both, uh Department of planning, uh Administration as well
as the continent and as they continue to build, uh, it's
going to be opportunities for uh to bring in more because
they're learning themselves. What is it that we need?
is long overdue
to be able to connect these dots though. This part is long
overdue.
overdue is very frustrating and I want to see us to be able
to get started and I think this is a start for us and I'm
looking.
looking forward to to
um supporting this
Um supporting this project and I'm asking my colleagues as
well.
well, um to support the passing of this project. So at this
point, can I get a motion?
point, can I get a motion uh to recommend appro?
point, can I get a motion, uh to recommend approval of this
item by that?
item by the same roll call vote as well as the terminal so
moved.
Oh, okay.
Who is going to respond? Oh.
Who is going to respond? Oh, yeah, I can um, I I will say
in in response to your comments and also alter the spot.
there we do have a joint venture there. We have 2 firms
that are going to be working with us and especially uh in
the area of community engagement and actually learning what
the needs of residents are. Um, and they're here with us in
the room if if you'd like to hear from them. Um, but okay,
Okay. Oh, well, it's community.
Okay. Oh, well, it's Community engagement in a tech Focus.
There's a lot of uh web applications.
There's a lot of uh web applications that they work on and
so it's it's related to that. So
All right again, I'll make that motion. Can I get a motion?
to recommend approval of this item by the same?
to recommend approval of this item by the same for roll
call vote it was determined for
call vote? It was determined for 1 so so moved by autumn.
call vote. It was determined for 1 so so moved by automl
spotto all in favor signify by saying.
spotto all in favor signify by saying I I
opposed
opinion of chairs the eyes have it.
This matter has passed this will conclude.
This matter has passed this will conclude the agenda of the
committee on contracts.
committee on contracts oversight and Equity these past
matters will.
matters will be reported out at the city council meeting.
matters will be reported out at the city council meeting on
April the 17th 20.
April the 17th 2024.
There being no further business.
There being no further business before the committee. Can I
get a motion to adj?
get a motion to adjourn?
So moved by our
so moved by Armin Nan
um
All In
all in favor
this meeting is
This meeting is adjourned according to the chairs. The eyes
have it. The meeting is adjourned. Thank you. Nick is
your folder? Yeah. Thanks.