Memphis Contractors Take Legal Stand Against County Discrimination
Memphis, TN – In a dramatic twist in the ongoing battle over construction contracts, a group of local contractors has decided to take on Shelby County once again. Theyโre claiming discrimination in how government contracts are awarded, especially concerning the Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) program. This isnโt the first time theyโve made such claims; they filed a similar lawsuit back in 2019. But this time, theyโre more determined than ever!
Whatโs This All About?
The lawsuit was officially filed in June 2024, and it raises some serious questions about constitutional rights. Nicholas Bragorgas, an attorney representing the Mechanical Contractors of Memphis, is leading the charge. According to him, the MWBE program is โunlawful and unconstitutionalโ and he argues that it constitutes a violation of recent Supreme Court rulings regarding race-based programs.
โWe believe that these particular programs, these MWBE programs, are a violation of a long line of Supreme Court cases,โ Bragorgas stated in a conversation with reporters. He highlighted two significant Supreme Court decisions from 2022 that related to admissions policies at Harvard College and the University of North Carolina, both of which focused on the use of race as a factor in awarding contracts. Bragorgas argues that this rationale should apply to construction contracts as well.
A Brief History of Discontent
This isnโt a new issue for Mechanical Contractors of Memphis. In their previous lawsuit in 2019, they also urged that the preferential treatment of Minority- and Women-Owned Businesses was unconstitutional. That case resulted in a settlement where the county agreed to pay $331,950 along with covering court costs. Though the specifics of that settlement remain under wraps, Bragorgas hopes the new lawsuit will bring more clarity to their stance.
โUsing race in any type as a factor in the awarding of public contracts is unconstitutional based upon the way this particular program has been designed, in our opinion,โ he elaborated. Itโs clear that Bragorgas and his clients are committed to this fight and see it as a matter of principle.
Whatโs Next?
As of now, Shelby County attorneys havenโt responded to requests for comments, leaving many in the dark about the county’s position on the matter. The next court date is set for January 2025, so it looks like this legal saga will continue for a while.
The Weather Report
In related news, as the court proceedings brew, the weather in Memphis may also keep folks on their toes! This morning, we can expect some fog and scattered showers, with temperatures peaking around 66ยฐF. Winds will be from the north, blowing gently at about 5 to 10 mph. While thereโs a 40% chance of rain today, things may clear up later with a low of 58ยฐF tonight, as the winds light up for a calmer evening.
Letโs Keep the Conversation Going
The issues around public contracts and discrimination are deeply rooted and can spark passionate discussions among locals. Whether you agree with the contractors or find merit in the MWBE programs, itโs essential to talk about whatโs happening in our community. As Memphis continues to grow, the balancing act between supporting diverse businesses and ensuring fair competition for all contractors will be crucial.
Stay tuned for updates as this case unfolds; it promises to be a significant moment for construction and minority business rights in Memphis!
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
