Chattanooga, TN, September 10, 2025
News Summary
Chattanooga’s mayor’s office is restructuring departments to comply with the ‘Dismantling DEI in Employment Act,’ which mandates the elimination of DEI initiatives. Key changes include the dissolution of the Department of Equity and Community Engagement and the Office of New Americans. Mayor’s office officials assure that while most employees will keep their jobs, the move raises concerns about its impact on immigrant communities. A public hearing on these changes is to be held before the City Council votes on reallocating funds from now-defunct DEI offices.
Chattanooga Restructures Departments in Response to New State DEI Employment Laws
Chattanooga’s mayor’s office is implementing significant changes to its departmental structure to comply with new state employment laws related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). This decision comes in light of Governor Lee’s ‘Dismantling DEI in Employment Act,’ which mandates the elimination of DEI initiatives across local government entities.
During a recent city council meeting, Chief of Staff Kevin Roig outlined the restructuring plan, which includes the dissolution of the Department of Equity and Community Engagement and the closure of the Office of New Americans, which previously catered to the Latin community. These changes prompted concerns from councilmembers, particularly regarding the potential impact on immigrant populations.
Councilmember Ron Elliott voiced his disappointment over the decision, highlighting that the immigrant community would face disproportionate effects due to the closure of critical support services. While Roig assured that resources for the Latin community would remain accessible, he acknowledged the necessity of shifting community engagement programs to the Department of Community Development. Furthermore, neighborhood services will transition to the Office of Constituent Services.
Despite these department closures, the majority of employees will retain their jobs, albeit with new titles reflecting their realigned responsibilities. The Chief Equity Officer position, however, will be entirely eliminated from the city’s organizational structure. City officials have stated that the restructuring will not affect the overall budget, reassuring the public that financial resources will remain stable.
City council members raised several concerns about the long-term implications of the restructuring on DEI efforts. Many expressed a belief that the work surrounding diversity and equity should not come to an end; it is essential for fostering inclusivity within the community. In line with this perspective, Roig emphasized that the administration remains committed to fairness and ensuring access for all citizens, irrespective of race or background.
As part of these changes, the city’s Equity Board will transition into the Community Engagement Board, with responsibilities adjusted to align with the new compliance requirements. Additionally, the initiatives surrounding Community Health, Community Safety, and Gun Violence Prevention will be incorporated into the Department of Community Development, reflecting a broader approach to community concerns.
A public hearing concerning these proposed changes will be held before the City Council conducts a vote on reallocating funds previously assigned to the now-defunct DEI offices. These discussions will shape the future of community-focused initiatives in Chattanooga, especially under the constraints imposed by the state’s legislation.
Background on DEI Legislation in Tennessee
The ‘Dismantling DEI in Employment Act’ introduced by Governor Lee has raised significant conversation across Tennessee, with local governments now tasked with adjusting their employment and community engagement frameworks. The law prohibits local entities from utilizing DEI methodologies in hiring, fundamentally altering how communities can address issues of diversity and inclusion.
Supporters of the legislation argue that it promotes equal treatment and prevents bias in government hiring practices, while opponents assert that it undermines necessary efforts to address systemic inequalities and support marginalized communities.
Key Features of Chattanooga’s Restructuring Plan
- Dissolution of the Department of Equity and Community Engagement.
- Closure of the Office of New Americans.
- Community engagement programs managed by the Department of Community Development.
- Neighborhood services shifted to the Office of Constituent Services.
- Elimination of the Chief Equity Officer position.
- No budget changes as a result of the restructuring.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the reason for Chattanooga’s department restructuring?
The restructuring is in response to the ‘Dismantling DEI in Employment Act’, which mandates the elimination of DEI initiatives in local governments.
Which departments are being dissolved as part of the new changes?
The Department of Equity and Community Engagement and the Office of New Americans will be dissolved.
Will any employees lose their jobs due to the restructuring?
Most employees from the affected departments will retain their jobs but will be reassigned under new titles.
Will there be any budget changes due to the restructuring?
City officials have stated that the restructuring will not cause any budget changes.
What are the next steps following this announcement?
A public hearing will be held before the City Council votes on reallocating funds from the DEI offices.
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Additional Resources
- Local 3 News: Chattanooga Eliminates DEI Offices
- Times Free Press: The GOP’s Anti-DEI Position
- News Channel 9: Tennessee Bill to Ban DEI Hires
- Wikipedia: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
