John Halaychik

The committee discussed updates from the Chief Equity and Diversity Officer regarding recent projects, departmental surveys, and budgetary constraints for the upcoming Facing Race Conference. Members received reports from the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion team and the Employee Engagement Committee, which included discussions on climate surveys, municipal health insurance consortium costs, and the potential creation of a Peer Support Specialist role for emergency services. Additionally, the committee reviewed the history of county employment climate surveys and discussed the preparation of the 2026 Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander American Heritage Month proclamation.

The committee held a meeting to discuss the 2SLGBTQI+ Pride Month initiative.

The meeting focused on the discussion of a peer support program for Tompkins County employees.

The meeting focused on the presentation of the April Engagement Committee Report.

The committee meeting covered a report from the Chief Equity and Diversity Officer regarding plans for equity work in the county and an update from Team Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. Key discussion items included the development and adoption of a Comprehensive Paid Caregiver Leave Policy and the establishment of goals and priorities for the 2026 Workforce Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee. Members also discussed various topics such as the Climate Survey, the Countywide Minimum Wage study, and the status of living wage employers.