Ciro Poppiti – County Diversity Plan

Our Core Principles:

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1.  We believe in diversity as a core value.  We believe in Inclusion as a core value.

2.  We believe everyone should have an equal opportunity to succeed.

3.  Black Lives Matter.

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Our Platform

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1.  CREATE A NEW MENTORSHIP PROGRAM

If we want a more diverse government, then we have to open the door for the next generation. The Mentorship Program will empower a diverse spectrum of young professionals the opportunity to mentor under the highest ranks of County management. In this way, the Mentorship Program provides the next generation an immediate glimpse into what their future can be, while helping the next generation to “break the glass ceiling” and to “have a seat at the decision-making table”.  

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2.  RECRUIT MORE MINORITY-OWNED BUSINESSES

There can be no Inclusion without economics.  The County spends tens of millions of dollars each year on outside contractors.  Yet, we are not seeing the number of contracts awarded to minority-owned businesses at a level we would otherwise expect.  We can do better in recruiting more minority-owned businesses to apply.  The math is simple:  The more businesses that apply, the more we can award.

 

3.  EXPAND THE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH UNIT

We need expanded funding of the Behavioral Health Unit within our Public Safety Department.  Too often when there is a crisis, the underlying issue is addiction or mental health.  We should respond appropriately by and through a Behavioral Health Unit that will address the underlying issue.

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4.  COMMUNITY ART THAT INSPIRES

I will continue my legacy of championing the arts.  The time is now to focus our efforts on community / public art because frankly, we have very little of it in the County.  Our community art should be inclusive of the many cultures and ethnicities that are woven into our County.  Community art is so important because it empowers and inspires the next generation.