Feb. 24, 2024 11a
(WGTD)---Reviving the Kenosha County Racial and Ethnic Equity Commission will be an uphill battle.
A proposal from County Board Supervisor Jeff Gentz failed to get a motion that would’ve allowed it to even be discussed at last week’s meeting of the board’s executive committee. The committee is made up of County Board Chair Gabe Nudo and the leaders of the board’s various standing committees.
The commission was created in 2021 after George Floyd and Jacob Blake. The panel floundered over issues relating to its structure and exact purpose, then was beset with resignations and controversial appointments from County Exec Samantha Kerkman, who eventually wound up recommending that the commission be disbanded.
Gentz’ proposal modified the commission’s structure, and put member appointment authority in the hands of the county board chairman. "I think it's needed. I think the public has asked for it," Gentz told the committee during the public comments portion of Thursday night's meeting. "If we put the right people in there and work toward a goal that we can all get behind then I think that's what should be done."
Several citizens who spoke supported Gentz’ plan while one voiced opposition.
No motion to bring the proposal to the floor was made and it died at least in committee without a discussion.
Gentz said afterward he was unsure whether the matter could be brought before the full county board.
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