The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County
Freddie O'Connell, Mayor
Executive Order 5
Subject: Affirming the Inclusion of LGBT-Owned Businesses as a Recognized Category for Metro Procurement
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Government of Nashville has an interest in providing historically underrepresented business owners equal opportunities to compete and succeed, and is committed to increasing the number and diversity of supplier options for city procurement practices; and
WHEREAS, supporting the success of our small and diverse business community is essential to our growth and improving the quality of life for our residents; and
WHEREAS, The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County recognizes the significant contributions that LGBT-owned businesses make in the Nashville community.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Freddie O’Connell, Mayor of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, by virtue of the power and authority vested in me, do hereby find, direct, and order the following:
I. There is a need to revise the Metropolitan Government procurement policies and practices to specifically identify LGBT-owned and certified businesses as a category of business enterprises, and to track usage of LGBT-owned and certified businesses in the procurement of goods and services.
II. Responsibility and Authority. The Purchasing Agent is charged with implementing the following:
- Modifying the business registration documents related to procurement to allow for self-identification as an LGBT-owned business.
- Developing a process to acknowledge LGBT certification and the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) as the certifying entity, in collaboration with the Nashville LGBT Chamber of Commerce as their local affiliate.
- Monitor and track usage of LGBT-owned businesses in the procurement of goods and services for the Metropolitan Government.
- To the fullest extent permitted by Tennessee law and the Metropolitan Code, provide LGBT-owned businesses with similar programs and services as those offered to Minority, Service Disabled, Small, and Women Owned businesses in Davidson County to ensure such businesses are familiar with how to do business with the Metropolitan Government and are informed about procurement opportunities.
III. Action by the Procurement Standards Board. The Procurement Standards Board is hereby requested to take any action necessary to implement the provisions of this Executive Order.
Ordered, Effective and Issued: January 17, 2024
Freddie O’Connell
Metropolitan County Mayor