Racial Justice and Equity Listening Session August 6th, 2026

This was a community listening session held by the Racial Justice and Equity Commission of Lexington-Fayette County on August 6, 2026, facilitated by LEX TV. The session focused on gathering public input on racial justice and equity issues across several areas including health disparities, law enforcement, housing, education, and economic opportunity. While the meeting primarily served as a forum for community members to share lived experiences and concerns, several procurement-relevant topics emerged, particularly around housing affordability and community support services. Attendees discussed challenges such as rising rents, housing shortages, and the need for affordable housing policies, including potential rent caps. The mayor highlighted successful partnerships resulting from prior commission recommendations, such as mobile food markets and expungement clinics, which involved collaborations with local vendors and organizations. The commission plans to analyze the input collected to develop recommendations for the mayor and city council, which may influence future policy and procurement decisions related to social services and community development. No direct contract awards or vendor selections were made during this session, but the discussions could inform future procurement activities addressing housing and social equity needs.