Dayton, Ohio Development News

Dayton Human Relations Council Reports on Q2 2026 Activities, Staffing, and Business Support Initiatives

The City of Dayton Human Relations Council (HRC) provided an update on its activities through the second quarter of 2026. The report covered the HRC's budget, staffing, business and technical assistance programs, and the Office of Justice and Inclusion. Key achievements included reaching full staffing with ten persons in the office, reviewing 20 projects for inclusion goals, and re-engaging expired PEP vendors. A new business support center with software and computers was established to assist small businesses with administrative tasks. The HRC also shifted towards more hands-on, technical events to better support businesses. The Office of Justice and Inclusion is prioritizing housing complaints, with six of nine active investigations concerning source of income, despite federal administration no longer supporting source of income protections. The HRC board has 13 vacancies, with two renewals and efforts to recruit new members underway. The Community Advisory Board (CAB) had one complaint this year, and policy recommendations are forthcoming after the board's review. Outreach efforts included revamping the 'Know Your Rights' program for schools and a successful housing resource fair. The HRC participated in over 50 events and collaborated with numerous partner organizations.