The City of Lexington is taking steps to improve its business environment for minority and women-owned enterprises. During a Council committee meeting at City Hall, various proposals were presented. Sherita Miller, the Minority Business Enterprise Program Director, announced the development of a small, local business enterprise program aimed at reserving certain contracts exclusively for small local businesses. This initiative will make these businesses more competitive in the bidding process.
One of the recommendations in a revised Council resolution is to set a goal of 5% for minority-owned businesses and 12% for women-owned businesses when working with the Urban County Government. Members of the Council’s General Government Committee received a review of Disparity Study recommendations. Council Member Shayla Lynch raised an issue about expanding the pool of subcontractors, noting that primary contractors often stick to familiar subcontractors.
Lynch also mentioned a consultant’s suggestion to award evaluation points to primary contractors for engaging new subcontractors. Sherita Miller indicated that this recommendation would be included in price evaluation preferences and opportunities for small contracts. As a nonprofit news organization, WEKU is committed to providing public service and fact-based journalism. Monthly supporters play a crucial role in funding WEKU’s operations. Join others in your community by making a donation to support WEKU.
In conclusion, Lexington is implementing measures to enhance its business climate for minority and women-owned enterprises. The city has set goals for these businesses and aims to increase their competitiveness in the bidding process by reserving certain contracts exclusively for them through a small, local business enterprise program. Additionally, Lynch proposed expanding the pool of subcontractors by requiring primary contractors to engage with new ones and awarding evaluation points for doing so.
Overall, these initiatives are positive steps towards promoting diversity and inclusion in Lexington’s business community while providing opportunities for small local businesses to thrive.
