During the recent Equal Opportunity Review Commission meeting held on July 17, 2025, a significant concern was raised regarding the treatment of Women Business Enterprises (WBEs) in city contracts. A representative from Pittsburgh Mobile Concrete, a certified WBE, highlighted troubling practices that undermine the participation of women-owned businesses in the construction industry.

The discussion centered around a contract awarded to Independent Enterprise for the El Paso Street project. While the commission had approved Pittsburgh Mobile Concrete as a subcontractor to fulfill 7% of the WBE participation goal, it was reported that Independent Enterprise did not utilize their services at all. This raises questions about transparency and accountability in the use of subcontractors.

The representative emphasized a broader issue of fraudulent practices, where contractors list WBEs to meet diversity requirements but fail to engage them meaningfully. This tactic not only misrepresents the commitment to diversity but also discourages WBEs from participating in future bids due to fears of exploitation. The president of Pittsburgh Mobile, Lisa Zales, has documented these concerns and expressed her frustration, stating that such practices dehumanize WBEs and reduce them to mere quotas.

The representative called for improved communication and screening measures to ensure that WBEs are treated with the respect they deserve and are not sidelined in city-funded projects. They urged the commission to take action to protect the interests of women-owned businesses, emphasizing that if one WBE is affected, many others likely face similar challenges.

The commission acknowledged the comments and assured that they would be taken under advisement. As the city continues to navigate its commitment to diversity and inclusion, the voices of WBEs like those from Pittsburgh Mobile Concrete highlight the urgent need for systemic change to foster a more equitable environment in public contracting.