Temecula's Race, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion Commission To Be Formally Disbanded

TEMECULA, CA — The city of Temecula is set to formally disband three commissions that were launched to improve quality of life for residents.

During the June 10 Temecula City Council meeting, the council members are expected to officially dissolve the Race, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Commission, the Traffic Safey Commission and the Community Services Commission effective December 31.

During an April 22 City Council meeting, the council members evaluated a variety of matters related to boards, committees, and commissions, including their purpose and jurisdiction. It was decided that the city's Planning Commission and the Old Town Local Advisory Committee were still relevant but it was time to pivot on the other three commissions.

An August 5 City Council workshop is expected to be held to determine how to move forward without the commissions, including whether new replacement commissions or committees should be formed. Some Traffic Safety Commission and Community Services Commission priorities may be rolled over to the Temecula Planning Commission.

It's unclear how priorities established under the Race, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Commission will be transitioned to another city entity.

The Race, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Commission or "REDI" Commission was formed in 2020 in the aftermath of the George Floyd protests, riots, and demonstrations against police brutality that began in Minneapolis on May 26, 2020. Mostly peaceful protests were also held across Riverside County. The REDI Commission was formed to identify opportunities for improved outreach and communication to all Temecula residents.

In 2021, the Temecula City Council decided to continue calling the committee the Race, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Commission after a motion by Councilmember Jessica Alexander to change the name was not seconded.

Since that time, diversity, equity and inclusion programs across the nation — otherwise known as "DEI" — have come under attack by President Donald Trump. His administration has threatened to withhold federal funding to states, law enforcement agencies, universities, companies and other entities that have DEI policies in place.

Temecula's Traffic Safety Commission was established in 1990, although it underwent several name changes before its current name was approved in 2023. The commission's role has been to advise the City Council on issues related to traffic and transportation in Temecula.

The Community Services Commission is also a long-running entity in the city. Established in 1990 as the Parks and Recreation Commission, the commission's name was changed in 1993 to its current title. The commission's role has been to oversee the creation of new parks and facilities in Temecula, naming those parks and facilities, and advising on community services programs and activities.

The 6 p.m. June 10 Temecula City Council meeting takes place at City Hall, 41000 Main Street. See the full meeting agenda here.