Equity, diversity and inclusion are now a part of who we are thanks to the steps taken since the 2014 inaugural efforts. The vision and goals of the D&I initiative are now embedded into everything we do. There are dedicated positions and offices, threaded policies and procedures, and allocated funds and programs. Our reimaged strategic plan and County’s vision for the future renews the focus on justice, sustainability, equity, belonging and accessibility. But there remains work to do.
We look forward with an equity lens to empower employees, increase a sense of belonging and ultimately strengthen our organization. In fiscal year 22/23 we will launch an externally run biennial employee engagement survey to help us plot our course to further increase opportunities of inclusion and spaces of belonging. Our community engagement focus, and inclusive language initiative will strengthen with the help of new positions centered around these works. The accessibility of services will increase through upgrades to our technology. We will work with contractors to develop a robust program to increase recruitment and outreach of neurodivergent individuals. We will form a comprehensive strategy that fosters collaboration to increase recruitment and retention efforts for veterans within the County workforce. The new departments that became fully operational this past fiscal year will blossom into their impactful work. The future is bright and lined with collaboration, being transparent and the responsibility of living out our mission and vision.