Hampton City Council considers new SWAM business committee for procurement oversight

During the recent Hampton City Council Work Session held on July 9, 2025, city staff presented a series of recommendations aimed at enhancing participation from small, women-owned, and minority (SWAM) businesses in city procurement opportunities. This initiative is part of a broader effort to stimulate economic growth and ensure a more inclusive business environment in Hampton.

The primary recommendation involves dissolving the existing Purchasing and Procurement Oversight Committee and establishing a new SWAM Business Committee. This committee would focus on advocacy and outreach, aiming to inform programming and support the growth of SWAM businesses. It is proposed to consist of seven members, with at least five being SWAM-certified business owners, and would meet quarterly, providing annual reports to the city council and city manager.

Additionally, the staff recommended forming a working group of both internal and external stakeholders to review and suggest changes to the city's procurement policies related to SWAM businesses. This group would be supported by the procurement office, with the Department of Economic Development offering assistance.

To better align resources, the Department of Economic Development plans to adjust staffing. Currently, the department has three funded positions dedicated to small business and entrepreneurship. A new role, Senior Manager for Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Small Business, is set to begin in August, alongside two Small Business Development Specialists. The proposal includes redirecting one position to the procurement department to enhance focus on city contracting opportunities and ensure consistent engagement with small businesses.

The discussions also touched on the impact of the pandemic on business participation in city projects. A council member noted a significant dip in responses from businesses, speculating that uncertainty during the pandemic may have deterred them from bidding on contracts.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city’s commitment to fostering a vibrant economy through increased support for SWAM businesses. The proposed changes aim to create a more structured approach to procurement, ultimately benefiting the local economy and ensuring diverse participation in city contracts. The council will consider these recommendations in future sessions, with an emphasis on enhancing the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Hampton.