Overview

Welcome to the Diversity & Economic Opportunity Department (DEOD) of Metro (Metro). Commitment: Metro is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to servicing its small business community through proactive and inclusive monitoring, mentoring, training and outreach activity. DEOD is responsible for ensuring non-discrimination in Metro contracting and employment practices.

Metro sets the S/D/M/WBE program in motion pursuant to state and federal laws so that no firm would be discriminated against on the basis of gender, race, color, national origin, age, or disability. The Contract Compliance Unit is responsible for ensuring that a fair share of all contracted work with subcontracting opportunities is achieved with appropriate S/D/M/WBEs.

To this end, the Contract Compliance Unit establishes goals on applicable projects awarded by the Metro, reviews bids/proposals and responses, recommends awards and monitors projects for appropriate S/D/M/WBE participation. Contract Compliance works closely with Procurement Department on all relevant contracts, works to maximize opportunities, and ensure fair and equitable treatment to S/D/M/WBE’s who participate in the performance of Metro contracts.

Factors considered in determining a contract goal that bidders/proposers should achieve include: S/D/M/WBE availability, subcontracting opportunities, and historical data from similar procurements. In the case where the goal /requirement has not been met, a good faith effort (GFE) requirement must be satisfied.

• Establish Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) goals for federally-funded contracts, Small Business Enterprise (SBE) goals for state and/or locally funded negotiated contracts, and Minority and Women (M/WBE) Voluntary Anticipated Levels of Participation (VALP) for state and/or locally funded non-negotiable contracts.

• Monitor, assess, and report compliance with DBE/SBE program requirements throughout the life of the contract.

• Ensure prompt payment to all S/D/M/WBE subcontractors participating in contracts financed with public funds.