Madera has set its Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) goal for transit projects at 0% through 2027- a number that may surprise some but reflects limited opportunities, the city says. 

City officials say that the decision is based on an analysis of the local contracting market, which found few upcoming opportunities for DBE participation. 

Officials say the city followed Federal Transit Administration (FTA) guidelines in reviewing the number of qualified DBE firms ready and able to bid on transit-related work. The audit found that there are limited opportunities for DBE participation in the upcoming transit projects, resulting in a 0% goal. 

Still, the city says it will continue supporting small and minority-owned businesses through race-neutral outreach and technical assistance. The DBE Goal Methodology Report details these strategies and explains the reasoning behind the established goal.

A public meeting was held on March 27 to gather input from local minority-owned businesses and advocacy groups. However, no public comments were submitted. Across the United States, cities are required to periodically reassess their Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) goals to ensure eligibility for federal transit funding.