Published on December 06, 2024
City Council Approves SBEDA Ordinance Amendments, District 3 Councilmember Focuses on Minority-Owned Businesses
The San Antonio City Council recently voted 7-4 to amend the Small Business Economic Development Advocacy (SBEDA) ordinance, sparking debate about equitable access to city contracting opportunities. District 3 Councilmember Phyllis Viagran voiced her support for the amendments while emphasizing the importance of prioritizing minority- and women-owned businesses.
“This stark disparity underscores the need for stronger tools, improved coordination, and more inclusive practices to ensure fair and equal access to contracting opportunities with the City of San Antonio. The 2023 Disparity Study confirms what we have long known: Race and sex discrimination remain persistent barriers to equal contracting opportunities. We cannot afford to ignore this reality.”
Despite acknowledging the complexities involved, Viagran stressed the necessity for change:
“It is vital that we give small and minority businesses not just a seat at the table but a genuine opportunity to thrive and succeed in our city. Eliminating race- and gender-conscious evaluation preference points for minority- and women-owned businesses presents a challenge, but that change is needed to continue moving the city forward.”
The council’s decision follows a study that revealed a significant gap between San Antonio’s demographics and the representation of minority-owned businesses in the city’s contracting landscape. While Hispanic and Black residents comprise 60 percent and 9 percent of San Antonio’s population, respectively, they own only 25 percent and 3 percent of employer small businesses.
Measuring the Impact: A Focus on Women-Owned Businesses
During the council session, it was determined that city officials will provide an update in March 2025 regarding the messaging of the amendments. The council seeks to assess the specific impact of these changes on women-owned businesses. This commitment to continued evaluation reflects a recognition of the need for transparency and accountability in ensuring that the amendments achieve their intended goal of fostering a more inclusive business environment.
Building a More Equitable Future for San Antonio’s Businesses
Viagran remains committed to championing the interests of minority-owned and women-owned businesses. She plans to collaborate with other council members to host a southern small business meeting, creating a platform for dialogue and engagement with the business community. Her long-term vision is clear:
“My aspiration is to build a more inclusive economy that truly reflects the diversity and potential of San Antonio’s residents,” she stated.
This commitment to inclusivity underscores the councilmember’s belief that a thriving and equitable economy requires active participation and support for businesses owned by individuals from all backgrounds.
The SBEDA ordinance amendments mark a significant step towards addressing systemic disparities in San Antonio’s business landscape.
While the path forward presents challenges, the council’s willingness to adapt its policies and engage in ongoing evaluation demonstrates a commitment to creating a more just and prosperous future for all San Antonio residents.
What is the primary rationale behind the elimination of race- and gender-conscious evaluation preference points, and how does the city intend to continue supporting minority- and women-owned businesses in light of this change?
## Interview: SBEDA Amendments and Minority-Owned Businesses
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Joining us today is Councilmember Phyllis Viagran from District 3, to discuss the recent amendments to the City’s Small Business Economic Development Advocacy (SBEDA) ordinance. Councilmember Viagran, thank you for being here.
**Councilmember Viagran:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** The council recently voted 7-4 to approve these amendments, which have sparked some debate. Can you tell our viewers what the main changes are and why you ultimately supported them?
**Councilmember Viagran:** Absolutely. The amended SBEDA ordinance aims to create a fairer and more equitable playing field for all businesses seeking contracts with the city.
One significant change is the elimination of race- and gender-conscious evaluation preference points for minority- and women-owned businesses. While this might seem like a step backward to some, [[1](https://webapp1.sanantonio.gov/RFPFiles/RCSP_3560_201805300507141.pdf)]highlights the city’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity. It’s a necessary evolution that aligns the program with legal requirements while working towards a more merit-based system.
**Host:** You mentioned legal requirements. Can you elaborate on that?
**Councilmember Viagran:** Sure. Recent case law regarding affirmative action programs has made it clear that we need to be constantly evaluating and adjusting our programs to ensure they comply with the law.
However, it’s important to emphasize that the elimination of these preference points doesn’t signal a step away from supporting minority- and women-owned businesses.
We are committed to finding alternative ways to promote their success, including targeted outreach, increased technical assistance, and streamlining the certification process.
**Host:** Views on these amendments are diverse, with some expressing concerns about the potential impact on minority-owned businesses. What message do you have for them?
**Councilmember Viagran:** I understand their concerns. The 2023 Disparity Study revealed a significant gap between the demographics of San Antonio and the representation of minority-owned businesses in city contracting. This disparity is unacceptable, and we need to address it head-on.
While these amendments mark a shift in approach, we remain dedicated to ensuring that minority- and women-owned businesses have a real opportunity to succeed in San Antonio. We are committed to working with our community partners and stakeholders to build a system that is truly equitable and inclusive for all.
**Host:** Councilmember Viagran, thank you for sharing your insights on this important issue.
**Councilmember Viagran:** Thanks for having me.
