Workforce Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee - June 22, 2026

The Tompkins County Workforce Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee met on June 22, 2026, focusing primarily on equity and inclusion initiatives within the county. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a detailed presentation by Megan McDonald from the Department of Planning and Sustainability on housing affordability as an equity indicator. The discussion highlighted historical and current disparities in homeownership and rental cost burdens, with renters facing increasing financial challenges. The committee explored data limitations, including the impact of student populations on housing statistics and the lag in census data. They also discussed ongoing and future county housing programs, such as the community housing development fund and upcoming housing strategy updates. Additionally, the meeting addressed procedural matters like the appointment of a working group for the Leslie McQueen Claiborne Strength and Diversity Award and updates on new state real property law affecting restrictive covenants. Committee members raised concerns about access to county funding for smaller nonprofits serving diverse communities, emphasizing the need for improved support and collaboration. No direct procurement or contract awards were discussed, but the meeting included policy and programmatic updates relevant to future county housing and diversity initiatives.