An act relating to approval of an amendment to the charter of the City of Burlington relating to the Office of Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Burlington creates office for racial equity

Effective May 26, 2026, Burlington’s charter establishes an Office of Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging. Its Director is a permanent City employee, hired under City human resources rules, who reports directly to the Mayor. The Director leads the office, and both operate under City Council orders and ordinances. The Mayor and Director must develop and carry out a citywide strategy for racial equity, inclusion, and belonging. Working with all City departments, the Director runs equity projects, recommends policy and program changes, and promotes diversity and antiracism. The Director must also improve underserved communities’ representation in City decisions and help residents engage with City government. The law provides no separate funding amount.