ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — The city of Asheville is taking a big step forward in the reparations process. City leaders announced they have hired a project manager at Tuesday night’s city council meeting.

Brenda Mills, interim equity officer, told the Asheville City Council TEQuity has been chosen as project manager. The African-American owned management consulting firm specializes in advancing equity, according to Mills.

Mills told council members the company has experience working with government agencies, minority and women owned businesses and historically Black colleges and universities.

TEQuity will assist with forming the Reparations Commission, which will be made up of 21-25 people.

“I talked to the city manager and her team about getting out with the neighborhood contacts to talk with them about recommending people for serving on that commission through the neighborhoods,” Mills said.

Mills said they will also work with the county to appoint other members to the commission.

The contract with TEQuity is still being finalized. Mills said it will be presented to council for approval Sept. 14. The Reparations Commission should be formed by November.