Stockton is seeking a new diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) consultant after months of controversy over its handling of DEI efforts and funding. The move comes as the City Council launches an investigation into whether public DEI funds were improperly used for other purposes.

The city recently issued a request for proposals (RFP) for a consultant to help strengthen DEI practices across municipal operations. According to city documents, the consultant will be tasked with conducting a DEI assessment, recommending best practices, identifying training needs, and engaging with community stakeholders. Proposals are due by October 2.

The city’s DEI work was thrown into uncertainty after the departure of DEI officer Preya Nixon. Her role was moved from the city manager’s office to human resources and reclassified as an HR analyst, raising questions about Stockton’s commitment to DEI leadership. It remains unclear whether the new consultant will replace Nixon’s position or serve in an advisory role alongside future DEI hires.

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In its RFP, Stockton emphasized that it remains committed to embedding DEI principles into government culture. “Through this DEI consulting engagement, the City seeks to develop a roadmap for institutional change, including best practices, structures, and accountability measures that embed DEI principles throughout City government,” the city said in its statement.

DEI Spending Under Investigation

The new hiring push comes as Stockton faces scrutiny over how DEI funds have been allocated. Earlier this year, it was revealed that money earmarked for DEI initiatives was instead used for other expenses, including a consulting contract for job coaching services for former interim City Manager Steve Colangelo.

This prompted the City Council to approve a formal investigation into DEI spending. The review will be carried out by the council’s Audit Committee, chaired by Vice Mayor Jason Lee, rather than an independent auditor. Some councilmembers, including Mayor Christina Fugazi, raised concerns about whether the committee could remain objective, but the vote ultimately passed.

“The public has a right to know how their tax dollars are being spent,” Lee had said. “And the council needs to make sure that tax dollars are being spent on behalf of the needs of the city.”

Push for Accountability

Stockton’s DEI efforts have faced challenges since the City Council passed a resolution against racism in 2022. While the resolution pledged to prioritize DEI, it provided no specific framework for implementation. Nixon’s hiring marked an initial step, but councilmembers, particularly Lee, have criticized the city for failing to deliver a clear execution plan.

Councilmember Mario Enríquez has also been vocal about the issue, joining Lee in holding a press conference in June to call for more accountability. Both Enríquez and Lee declined to comment on the city’s latest consultant search.

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Despite the ongoing controversy, the City Manager’s Office insists that DEI remains a priority. In an email statement, the office said staff will continue to work with the council and its committees to achieve desired outcomes.

As Stockton begins its search for a new consultant, the city faces the dual challenge of restoring public trust and advancing its DEI goals. The consultant’s work is expected to provide clarity and structure to an initiative that, so far, has struggled to gain traction.

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Source: STOCKTONIA