Commissioned report provides an outline for future improvements
LAS VEGAS – The Clark County School District (CCSD) is reviewing the results of a recent disparity study initiated by the District to improve equity in bidding for contracts.
The report indicates District utilization of minority- and woman-owned contracts was on par with availability for prime construction contracts, which was the largest area of District spending during the study period. The report also shows the underutilization of minority- and woman-owned businesses on District goods and services purchases and subcontract opportunities for public works projects.
“We commissioned a review of our procurement practices to ensure we are reaching available contractors and businesses in our community,” CCSD Superintendent Dr. Jesus F. Jara said. “We will review the results with the Board of School Trustees and discuss ways we can improve equity among the contracts awarded by the District as well as subcontractors hired to improve our outreach to potential contractors.”
The report will be presented to the CCSD Board of School Trustees at their Regular Meeting on Thursday, May 18, 2023.
CCSD launched the study in a meaningful step toward ensuring equity of opportunity for minority- and woman-owned businesses in bidding for construction projects, products, services, and supplies. While the District has engaged in several steps to increase the participation of minority- and women-owned businesses, the study results reveal that additional measures are needed.
Keen Independent Research conducted the study by surveying thousands of Southern Nevada businesses and examining more than 2,000 purchases from 2017 through 2021. By analyzing the availability of local companies for specific types of contracts, Keen Independent calculated benchmarks showing the percentage of contract dollars that the District would award to minority- and woman-owned businesses given a level playing field.
Keen Independent Research recommends additional actions to increase minority- and woman-owned business participation in District contracts. To view the report or for more information on the study, please visit the study website at keenindependent.com/ccsddisparitystudy2023.
