Fremont officials explain the decision to remove the city director for Dei – WTOL position

Fremont, Ohio – the city of Fremont eliminates its director for diversity, justice and inclusion, but not for political reasons.

City authorities say this is because of funding, but they hope to serve their diverse community even without the position.

Four years ago, the city partnered with the Board of Directors for Mental Health and Fremont City Schools to introduce a specialist in diversity and inclusion to help mental health and alcohol and drug abuse.

“At that time, we felt that we needed to make sure we brought awareness to our families in our community,” said Mayor Danny Sanchez. “We come from a very diverse community here in Fremont.”

However, the position was not intended for the long -term, as the community of funding for grants to achieve the position appeared. After a budget meeting last year, the city and its partners decided to eliminate the position and transfer their financial focus to other issues.

“We are looking at some investments in young people and children in Fremonth and Sandaski County,” says Mircea Handru, CEO of the Mental Health and Restoration of Seneca, Ottawa, Sandusky and Wyandot recovery. “We actually have several projects; what I call them hanging. Again, through joint efforts with some of the local and private organizations.”

Mayor Sanchez said the cutting of the position was necessary as there was no longer a public need for it. In the four years, the position existed, it brought a positive change and created connections, the city authorities said.

“I had the opportunity to work and cooperate with other community leaders to make sure we overcome the gaps and these barriers,” Sanchez said. “The man we had in this position did an exceptional job.”

As the goal was to overcome the difference between communities, Sanchez said he knew the importance of listening to all members of the Community.

“We do this every day in our positions. We always want to hear from the people in the community and what they want and what they need,” Sanchez said. “This is essentially this. This is a leader, it receives the insight and information from your voters, in which you serve and you do not have to need a title to do it.”