St. Charles officials set to approve city’s first Equity and Inclusion Commission

St. Charles Government Operations Committee members recommended approval of the establishment of an Equity and Inclusion Commission by unanimous vote at the May 15 Government Operations Committee meeting.

The commission, which will be comprised of St. Charles residents, will develop recommendations that align with the strategic plan’s guiding principles and goals to help the city engage, listen and ensure St. Charles is an inclusive community that is welcoming to all residents, businesses, employees and visitors, according to an April news release from the city.

The city is interviewing potential commission members. Once those members are selected, the commissioners will be appointed at the June 5 City Council meeting, according to an email from City Administrator Heather McGuire.

According to the ordinance, the commission would meet four times a year and its purpose is to help the city foster an inclusive community that welcomes all residents, businesses, employees and visitors.

“The overall purpose of the Equity and Inclusion Commission shall be to make recommendations to the City Council and staff to ensure our community is one that is open, inclusive and welcoming to all individuals regardless of age, gender, race, culture, sexual orientation, religion or abilities,” according to the ordinance.

The commission will consist of nine members serving three-year terms who will be appointed by Mayor Lora Vitek and approved by the City Council. At least seven of the nine members must be St. Charles residents.

According to the ordinance, the commission also will work to identify areas of systemic racism in St. Charles and develop recommendations for city officials to combat racism and embrace greater diversity.

The commission will work in conjunction with other local community, government, cultural and faith groups that are addressing equity and inclusion issues. It will assist with recruiting and selecting applicants for membership in all other appointed boards and committees.