Chattanooga’s Department of Equity and Community Engagement could be dissolved next week if the City Council decides it must disband the office to comply with state law.
A proposed ordinance would reallocate around $2 million in funds and 11 positions into different departments.
Earlier this year, the state passed a law requiring local governments to eliminate all programs or positions with direct ties to diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. The majority of positions and funding would funnel into the Department of Community Management, some with new descriptions eliminating DEI-focused duties, as well as the Office of Constituent Services.
The only position fully eliminated under the proposal would be chief equity officer, currently filled by Anthony Sammons, who’s held the position since 2023.
Under the proposed changes, the city’s Equity Board would become the Community Engagement Board with a new set of goals as well.