Equity Analysis. The REA Team will complete an equity analysis that will analyze state and local tax policies and practices for evidence of systemic algorithmic and human biases to identify disparities may have cascading impacts on housing affordability, gentrification, displacement, and household economics, and may ultimately become a driver of many disparities. The REA Team proposes to interrogate state and local tax policies and practices for evidence of systemic algorithmic and human biases in Westfield. Algorithmic biases result from discrepancies and deficiencies in the math used to assign taxable values to buildings and land. Since ‘value’ is subjective, whereby people use discretion, interpretation, and judgment to determine how much and what is prioritized in every market, the valuation process is subject to human bias. Left unchecked, our work shows that these biases exacerbate existing racial and economic inequities. The ultimate outcome of interest is bold and transformative change in the public policies and standards of practice that govern property tax administration. By sharing the findings of the initial work with local elected officials, this work has already helped inform the development of two new housing assistance programs in Buncombe County and Asheville. Although the early versions of these programs will provide only modest financial assistance to low-income homeowners, they are among the first steps needed to overcome the negative impacts of tax disparities. Our hope would be to visualize the extent of the potential bias or inequity in Westfield’s approach to assessment and make recommendations for policy change based on the REA Team’s findings.
Equity Analysis. This analysis will examine potential equity issues associated with the various Seattle/LWC UPA projects. Experience with the SR 167 HOT lanes in the Seattle region and with other HOT and toll facilities throughout the country indicate that perceptions of fairness, or equity, may be a factor in the acceptance of proposed pricing projects. Equity may also be a concern in the spatial distribution of services and infrastructure. Equity issues are important to assess because the impacts – both positive and negative – may contribute to public opinion and the effects upon various population groups. The Seattle/LWC UPA partner agencies are taking a number of actions to mitigate any potential equity concerns. For example, although many travelers are expected to use the SR 520 Good to Go! pre-paid, transponder-based account, several other payment options are being offered. These options include pre- or post-payment for each toll transaction by mail, over the Internet, by telephone, and in person at a customer service store. Outreach efforts, including those focused on limited-English-speaking populations, are also planned. As presented in Table 4-11, equity will be examined in four ways. First, the direct social effects from the Seattle/LWC UPA projects, including tolling SR 520, on various user groups will be examined. These social effects may include tolls paid, travel-time savings, and adaptation costs. The second hypothesis addresses the spatial distribution of aggregate out-of-pocket and inconvenience costs, and travel time and mobility benefits. Third, possible differential environmental impacts on certain socio-economic groups will be examined. This question addresses possible environmental justice issues. Finally, the reinvestment of revenues from tolling the SR 520 Bridge and how this reinvestment impacts various user groups will be examined.
Equity Analysis. 1. Assess the alignment between the current staffing allocation practices and the overall goals and priorities of Arlington Public Schools including the Strategic Plan, the School Board’s Priorities, and the School Board’s budget direction, with a particular focus on how allocating resources equitably can assist in achieving the goal of eliminating opportunity gaps so all students achieve excellence.
