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Agenda Item
4 26-0171 Subject: Disparities In Contracting Study Update
From: Councilmember Fife
Recommendation: Receive An Informational Report From The City Administrator On The Status Of The Disparities In Contracting Study Conducted By Mason Tillman Associates (MTA) Pursuant To Resolution 89058 C.M.S, Including MTA'S Findings To Date Regarding Disparities In The City's Professional Services, Procurement, And Construction Contracting Activities And A Timeline On When The Final Report Would Be Presented To The City Council
My name is Mario Wagner. As a longtime Oakland resident who grew up in District 3, owns property in District 5, operates a business in District 7, and serves as Vice President of NAMC NorCal and a Board Director with the Oakland African American Chamber of Commerce, I strongly support receiving the Mason Tillman Associates disparity study and moving forward with concrete actions to address inequities in City contracting.
For years, local small contractors—especially firms owned by people of color—have struggled to access opportunities due to structural barriers. The study confirms what many of us have long experienced: disparities persist and must be addressed with urgency.
I urge the committee to implement the study’s recommendations, including clear participation goals for small and disadvantaged businesses, transparent reporting, reduced procurement barriers, prompt payment practices, and capacity-building support such as training, mentorship, and bonding assistance. The City must also establish strong accountability measures to ensure these goals are met.
Taking action is about remedying past inequity and strengthening Oakland’s future. Local firms create jobs, keep dollars in the community, and anchor neighborhoods. Moving from “informational report” to “implementation plan” now is essential.
Thank you for your leadership and commitment to equity in contracting.
My name is Mario Wagner. As a longtime Oakland resident who grew up in District 3, owns property in District 5, operates a business in District 7, and serves as Vice President of NAMC NorCal and a Board Director with the Oakland African American Chamber of Commerce, I strongly support receiving the Mason Tillman Associates disparity study and moving forward with concrete actions to address inequities in City contracting.
For years, local small contractors—especially firms owned by people of color—have struggled to access opportunities due to structural barriers. The study confirms what many of us have long experienced: disparities persist and must be addressed with urgency.
I urge the committee to implement the study’s recommendations, including clear participation goals for small and disadvantaged businesses, transparent reporting, reduced procurement barriers, prompt payment practices, and capacity-building support such as training, mentorship, and bonding assistance. The City must also establish strong accountability measures to ensure these goals are met.
Taking action is about remedying past inequity and strengthening Oakland’s future. Local firms create jobs, keep dollars in the community, and anchor neighborhoods. Moving from “informational report” to “implementation plan” now is essential.
Thank you for your leadership and commitment to equity in contracting.
Mario Wagner