Lacey City Council reviews draft equity map for community insights and accessibility

On March 24, 2025, the City of Lacey's Commission on Equity convened to discuss the development of an equity map aimed at enhancing data-informed decision-making within the community. This initiative is part of the city's broader Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Strategic Plan, which seeks to identify areas of high and low equity across Lacey and Thurston County.

The meeting highlighted the importance of gathering community feedback to refine the equity map, which will serve as a vital tool for understanding disparities in access to resources and services. The map is designed to visually represent areas of varying equity levels, allowing residents and city officials to identify where interventions may be necessary. The commission has been working with consultants to determine which datasets to include, although some key data, such as adult literacy rates, remain unavailable.

During the presentation, the commission showcased the map's features, including the ability to zoom in on specific neighborhoods and access detailed demographic information. However, concerns were raised about the map's accessibility, particularly for individuals with visual impairments. Suggestions included implementing alternative text features and ensuring color schemes are friendly for those with color vision deficiencies.

Commission members emphasized the map's potential utility for various stakeholders, including nonprofits and human services organizations, to better target their programs and funding. The commission plans to update the equity map every two years, ensuring it reflects the most current data and community needs.

As the commission continues to refine the equity map, they are committed to engaging with the community for feedback and ensuring that the tool is both functional and accessible. The next steps involve further consultations with advisory boards and the human services commission, which will review the map in the coming weeks. This initiative represents a significant step towards fostering equity and inclusivity in Lacey, providing a framework for informed decision-making that addresses the diverse needs of its residents.