City of Asheville

Overview

Miller³ Consulting, Inc. found that the COA’s purchasing activities suggest that SMWBEs continue to have some difficulties obtaining significant contracts with the COA. In submitting specific findings within the Study for the COA, M³ Consulting formulated recommendations that allow the COA to rely upon race/gender-conscious means, when necessary, to address ongoing hindrances to eliminate disparities, while also addressing SMWBE participation through race/gender-neutral efforts. Our economic and statistical utilization analyses could serve as part of the policy- and procedure-making decisions needed to ensure enhanced and legally defensible SMWBE participation in the COA’s purchasing processes and opportunities.