ECONOMICS

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Committee Goal:

To promote sustainable growth strategies that maximize economic opportunities for black residents of Tacoma/Pierce County.

Leadership:

 Chair: Bill Dickens, Co-Chairs: Christina Blocker & Jesse Miller

 Members: Keith Armstrong, Eu-Wanda Banks, Dalton Gittens, Linda Ishem, Cassandra Williams, Cassandra Mitchell, Eddie Rye, Nate Miles, Jasmyn Jefferson, James Walton, Yolanda Brooks, Michael Jordan, Jessie Baines, Gustavus “Gus” Lawler, Lyle Quasim, Wayne Williams, Ellen Smith

Community Partners: Port of Tacoma, Tacoma Chamber of Commerce, Tacoma Urban League, Tabor 100, Washington Department of Commerce, Tacoma Department of Community Economic Development, United Way, Forterra

Collaborators: Tacoma School District, City of Tacoma Government, Pierce County Government, Sound Transit, State of Washington Department of Enterprise Service, OWMBE, Tacoma/Pierce County Health Department, Washington State Department of Transportation, Economic Development Board, Key Bank, Columbia Bank

Prospects for 2021-2021:

• Annual Economic State of Black Tacoma Report
• Economic Information Sharing: Provide data on the level of economic activity in the state of Washington and provide commentaries about the implications for black Tacoma businesses and black Tacoma consumers. Promote contracting opportunities. Promote employment opportunities
• Black Economic Power and Wealth Building – (Long Term)
• Analysis of Economic Issues impacting black people: Review and make recommendations of key Washington State, county, and local legislation and referendums that economically affect black people.
• Encourage and contribute to partner initiatives that address training and development needs
• Enrich business and financial management skills and the ability to secure resources that support black owned business sustainability and resiliency, including access to Collective member experiences and expertise.