Title
Receive a presentation on the 2026-2028 Chatham County Updated EEO Plan
Abstract
Introduction & Background: In 2021, Chatham County adopted its first formal Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Plan to strengthen compliance with federal and state laws related to discrimination, equal employment opportunity, and adverse impact. The Plan reflects the County’s commitment to fostering and maintaining a workplace culture grounded in fairness, equity, respect, and inclusion for employees, applicants, and the community it serves.
The proposed 2026-2028 Equal Employment Opportunity Plan serves as an updated continuation of the County’s original 2021 EEO Plan. The updated plan builds upon the County’s existing framework and ongoing efforts to support impartial employment practices, evaluate workforce trends, and maintain compliance with applicable employment laws and regulations.
Discussion & Analysis: Over the next four years, the County will continue implementing inclusive, job-related recruitment and engagement strategies designed to broaden applicant pools across job categories while maintaining merit-based selection principles consistent with federal and state law. In addition, the County will regularly review employment policies, practices, and procedures to ensure they remain neutral, job-related, and free from artificial or unnecessary barriers to employment opportunities, including recruitment, hiring, promotion, transfer, and professional advancement. All employment decisions will continue to be based on qualifications, experience, and other job-related criteria.
How does this relate to the Comprehensive Plan: This presentation supports the Comprehensive Plan’s goals related to effective governance, organizational excellence, and equitable opportunity. The updated Equal Employment Opportunity Plan reinforces the County’s commitment to maintaining a fair, inclusive, and merit-based workforce, which strengthens the County’s ability to deliver high-quality services to the community. By promoting equitable hiring practices, removing barriers to employment, and regularly evaluating workforce policies, the Plan aligns with the Comprehensive Plan’s emphasis on fostering an inclusive community and ensuring that County operations reflect fairness, transparency, and accountability.
Budgetary Impact: None
Recommendation/Motion: Receive a presentation and approve the 2026-2028 Chatham County Updated EEO Plan.