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Recommendation: 20220713-13: Changing the Name of the Commission on Seniors to the Commission on Aging and Updating City Code Section 2-1-132 — original pdf
RECOMMENDATION Commission on Seniors Recommendation Number: 20220713-13: Changing the Name of the Commission on Seniors to the Commission on Aging and Updating City Code Section 2-1-132 WHEREAS, the term “seniors” is falling out of use when describing older adults, as many find it patronizing and ageist. For example, The American Psychological Association recommends using the term “older adults” and avoiding “terms such as “seniors,” “elderly,” “the aged,” “aging dependents,” and similar “othering” terms because they connote a stereotype and suggest that members of the group are not part of society but rather a group apart (see Lundebjerg et al., 2017; Sweetland et al., 2017)”; and WHEREAS, the term “aging” brings to mind a dynamic process that leads to new abilities and knowledge that continues to contribute to the community; and WHEREAS, renaming the Commission on Seniors the Commission on Aging would be consistent with names of other similar commissions, and with the name of local, state, and national agencies and organizations addressing the needs of older adults, such as the Area Agency on Aging, The Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services, the UT-Austin Aging and Longevity Center, and the Milken Institute Center for the Future of Aging; and WHEREAS; other parts of the City of Austin are transitioning away from using the term “seniors”. For example, the Parks and Recreation Department is moving from the term “senior programs” to “Varsity Generation” programs and services after research and community feedback; and WHEREAS, the membership of the commission should be diverse and inclusive, reflecting all who live in the Austin community. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Commission on Seniors recommends the Austin City Council approve amendments to the city code and commission bylaws attached to this resolution. These amendments: • Change the name of the Commission on Seniors to the Commission on Aging • Replace the term “seniors” with the term “older adults” in the ordinance and bylaws • Include the goal for the commission to be inclusive and represent a diversity of ethnicity, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, socioeconomic status, and national origin and include older adults who are representative of our diverse community. Date of Approval: July 13, 2022 Record of the vote: 8-0 For: Briesemeister, Angel, De Maria Nicola, Garcia-Pittman, Kareithi, Lugo, Van Sickle, Van de Putte Against: None Absent: Temperley, Bauman, Bordie, Cagle, Lopez-Guerrero, Varteressian Attest: _____________________________________________ Janee Briesemeister, Chair
Support document for Recommendation Number: 20220713-13, Edits to City Code Section 2-1-132 — original pdf
§ 2-1-132 - COMMISSION ON SENIORS AGING. (A) The Commission on Seniors Aging shall serve as an advisory board to the council concerning the quality of life for senior citizens older adults in the Austin area and to help ensure they older adults are productive, independent, and healthy. (B) The council shall appoint 15 commission members: (1) the mayor may nominate two commission members and each council member may nominate one commission member; (2) the Travis County Commissioners Court shall appoint one commission member; (3) the Area Agency on Aging of the Capital Area shall appoint one commission member; (4) the Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority shall appoint one commission member. (C) The commission should include members who are representatives of or sensitive to the needs of the senior older adult population. Members should have substantive knowledge on issues concerning senior citizens older adults including but not limited to health, affordable housing, basic needs, transportation, social engagement and inclusion, and caregiver support. The commission should strive to be inclusive and represent a diversity of ethnicity, race, and gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, socioeconomic status, and national origin; and include older adults who are representatives of the senior population Austin community. (D) The commission shall: (1) advise the council on issues related to the senior older adult population in the Austin area; (2) evaluate and recommend programs, policies, and practices that create a positive impact and reduce the burden on seniors older adults; (3) determine the needs of seniors older adults in the Austin community, and advise council regarding these needs; and (4) promote the contributions of seniors older adults to the cultural, economic, and historical value of Austin. (E) The council encourages the commission to hold periodic joint meetings with the Mayor's Committee for People with Disabilities.
Agenda — original pdf
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING JOINT MEETING: MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES AND COMMISSION ON SENIORS FRIDAY, JUNE 10TH, 2022, 5:30 P.M. – 7:30 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARD & COMMISSION ROOM, ROOM 1101 301 W 2ND STREET, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities and Commission on Seniors may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register, email the board liaison at Damian.Pantoja@austintexas.gov The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABIILITES CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Jonathan Franks, Chair Emily Shryock, Vice Chair Diana Anzaldua Taurean Burt Kathryn Broadwater Vacant Joey Gidseg Diane Kearns-Osterweil Robin Orlowski Jennifer S. Powell Deborah Trejo COMMISSION ON SENIORS CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Janee Briesemeister, Chair Amy Temperley, Vice-Chair Jacqueline Angel Martha Bauman Patricia Bordie Natalie Cagle Emily De Maria Nicola Erica Garcia-Pittman Martin Kareithi Sally Van Sickle Luz Lopez-Guerrero Henry Van de Putte Fred Lugo Diana Spain Peter Varteressian AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL I. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. Approval of the minutes from the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities April 8, 2022 meeting. II. NEW BUSINESS a. Presentation by Public Consulting Group regarding the Disability Quality of Life Study. Temperly) b. Presentation by Project Connect and CapMetro regarding service updates. c. Discussion on the Commission on Seniors Name Change. (Commissioner d. Discussion on the Downtown Commission's position on the use of scooters in the downtown areas and its impact on people with disabilities. (Commissioners Broadwater and Orlowski). e. Discussion regarding a recommendation to require certified ASL interpreters to be dispatched to a site with deaf survivors. f. Discussion regarding a recommendation to require the City of Austin MBWE Program be amended and expanded to include disability. III. OLD BUSINESS a. None. V. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS VI. ADJOURNMENT IV. STAFF BRIEFINGS AND COMMISSIONER ANNOUNCEMENTS The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring sign language interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) …
Recording Joint Meeting with Mayor's Committee for People with Disabilities — original link
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Agenda — original pdf
COMMISSION ON SENIORS MAY 11TH, 2022 AT 12:00PM AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 301 WEST 2ND STREET, AUSTIN, TEXAS, 78701 OR VIA VIDEOCONFERENCING (Some members of the commission may be participating by videoconference) PUBLIC COMMUNICATION Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register, please email or call Halana Kaleel at Halana.Kaleel@austintexas.gov or 512-972-5019. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Janee Briesemeister, Chair Amy Temperley, Vice-Chair Jacqueline Angel Martha Bauman Patricia Bordie Natalie Cagle Emily De Maria Nicola Erica Garcia-Pittman Sally Van Sickle Martin Kareithi Luz Lopez-Guerrero Peter Varteressian Fred Lugo Diana Spain AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM THE COMMISSION ON SENIORS APRIL 13TH, 2022 MEETING 2. ANNOUNCEMENTS 3. OLD BUSINESS A. Discussion and possible action Commission Work Plan – Standing Item B. Discussion and possible action from Working Groups – Standing Item i. Age-Friendly Action Plan Implementation Working Group ii. iii. Transportation, Housing and Outdoor Spaces Working Group Social Participation, Respect and Social Inclusion, Civic Participation and Employment Working Group iv. Community Support and Health Services Working Group v. Emergency Preparedness and Response Working Group C. Discussion and possible action from Joint Inclusion Committee – Standing Item (Commissioner Temperley) D. Discussion and possible action of City of Austin Budget – Standing Item (Chair Briesemeister) 4. NEW BUSINESS A. Presentation on 87th Legislative Session Updates, Brie L. Franco, City of Austin, Intergovernmental Relations Officer B. Present Commission on Seniors FY22 Community Service Awards (Mary Sue Clyne and Nina Mosier, M.D.) C. Discussion and possible action on appointment of a working group to consider change of name, ordinance, and bylaws of the Commission on Seniors (Chair Briesemeister and Commissioner Temperley) D. Discussion and possible action in support of Budget Resolutions adopted by the Joint Inclusion Committee (Commissioner Van Sickle and Garcia-Pittman) A. Age-Friendly Austin Update, Tabitha Taylor, Age-Friendly Program Coordinator. 5. STAFF BRIEFINGS 6. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS A. Joint Meeting with the Mayor’s Committee for People with …
20220511-04D: FY 2023 Joint Inclusion Budget Recommendations — original pdf
COMMISSION ON SENIORS RECOMMENDATION 20220511-04D FY 2023 Joint Inclusion Budget Recommendations Date: May 11, 2022 Subject: FY2023 Budget Recommendations Motioned By: Commissioner Van Sickle Recommendation The Commission on Seniors endorses the budget resolutions adopted by the Joint Inclusion Committee. Description of Recommendation to Council Seconded By: Commissioner Angel 1. BUDGET ENDORSEMENTS ON AFFORDABILITY RECOMMENDATION #: 20220323‐ 005a 2. BUDGET RECCOMENDATION ON RESILIENCY RECOMMENDATION #: 20220323‐005b 3. BUDGET ENDORSEMENTS ON ACCESS RECOMMENDATION #: 20220323‐005c 4. BUDGET ENDORSEMENTS ON ENGAGEMENT RECOMMENDATION #: 20220323‐005d 5. BUDGET ENDORSEMENTS ON PUBLIC SAFETY RECOMMENDATION #: 20220323‐005e 6. BUDGET ENDORSEMENTS ON HEALTH RECOMMENDATION #: 20220323‐005f 7. RECCOMENDATION ON THE BUDGET PROCESS RECOMMENDATION #: 20220323‐ 005g 20220323‐005h 8. RECCOMENDATION ON QUALITY‐OF‐LIFE STUDIES RECOMMENDATION #: Rationale: The Commission on Seniors has determined that each of the budget resolutions adopted by the Joint Inclusion Committee will improve the quality of life for older adults in Austin. Vote For: Briesemeister, Temperley, Angel, Baumann, Bordie, De Maria Nicola, Garcia-Pittman, Kareithi, Lopez-Guerrero, Lugo, Spain, Van Sickle, Varteressian. Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Cagle Attest: Janee Briesemeister, Chair
Approved Minutes — original pdf
1 COMMISSION ON SENIORS REGULAR MEETING MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, MAY 11TH, 2022 The Commission on Seniors convened a Regular Meeting at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions, 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas, 78702 and remotely. Board Members in Attendance: Chair, Janee Briesemeister, Vice Chair, Amy Temperley, Diana Spain, Emily De Maria Nicola, Erica Garcia‐Pittman, Fred Lugo, Jacqueline Angel, Luz Lopez‐Guerrero Martha Bauman, Martin Kareithi, Patricia Bordie, Sally Van Sickle, Peter Varteressian. Board Members not in Attendance: Natalie Cagle Staff in Attendance: Tabitha Taylor and Halana Kaleel, Austin Public Health Presenters: Brie L. Franco Chair, Janee Briesemeister called the Board Meeting to order at 12:07 pm. The Commission introduced themselves. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION A. No Public Communication 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM THE COMMISSION ON SENIORS APRIL 13TH, 2022 MEETING A. The minutes from the April 13th, 2022, meeting were approved on Commissioner Lopez‐Guerrero motion, Commissioner Varteressian second on a 13‐0 vote with grammar corrections given by Commissioner Van Sickle. Commissioner Cagle was absent. A. Commissioner Kareithi announced that the CEO of CapMetro is leaving and CapMetro fares for 2. ANNOUCEMENTS riding will not be increased this year. 3. OLD BUSINESS A. Discussion and possible action Commission Work Plan – Standing Item No discussion currently. B. Discussion and possible action from Working Groups – Standing Item Age Friendly Action Plan Implementation Working Group Working group will be reviewing and developing the Annual Internal Review and Report. Transportation, Housing and Outdoor Spaces Working Group No discussion currently. Social Participation, Respect and Social Inclusion, Civic Participation and Employment Working Group i. i. ii. iii. iv. Community Support and Health Services Working Group No discussion currently. No discussion currently. v. Emergency Preparedness and Response Working Group No discussion currently. C. Discussion and possible action from Joint Inclusion Committee – Standing Item 2 D. Discussion and possible action of City of Austin Budget – Standing Item No discussion currently. No discussion currently. 4. NEW BUSINESS Relations Officer A. Presentation on 87th Legislative Session Updates, Brie L. Franco, City of Austin, Intergovernmental Presenter gave recap of the 87th Legislative Session, what bills from the 87Th session that passed and will have negative or positive impact for the City of Austin, what bills didn’t pass that would have had a positive impact on the city, what bills that passed or did not pass that would impact the work of the Commission on …
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Community Interest Announcement — original pdf
Commission on Seniors Community Interest Announcement Older Americans Month Kick Off Event May 7th, 2022, at 10:00am. Conley-Guerrero Senior Activity Center Halana Kaleel 512-972-5019 Halana.Kaleel@austintexas.gov A quorum of Commission members may be present. No action will be taken, and no Commission business will occur.
Agenda — original pdf
COMMISSION ON SENIORS APRIL 13TH, 2022 AT 12:00PM AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 301 WEST 2ND STREET, AUSTIN, TEXAS, 78701 OR VIA VIDEOCONFERENCING (Some members of the commission may be participating by videoconference) PUBLIC COMMUNICATION Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register, please email or call Halana Kaleel at Halana.Kaleel@austintexas.gov or 512-972-5019. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Janee Briesemeister, Chair Peter Varteressian, Vice-Chair Natalie Cagle Jacqueline Angel Martha Bauman Patricia Bordie Emily De Maria Nicola Erica Garcia-Pittman AGENDA Amy Temperley Martin Kareithi Luz Lopez-Guerrero Sally Van Sickle Fred Lugo Diana Spain CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM THE COMMISSION ON SENIORS MARCH 9TH, 2022 MEETING 2. ANNOUNCEMENTS 3. OLD BUSINESS A. Discussion and possible action Commission Work Plan – Standing Item B. Discussion and possible action from Working Groups – Standing Item i. Age-Friendly Action Plan Implementation Working Group ii. iii. Transportation, Housing and Outdoor Spaces Working Group Social Participation, Respect and Social Inclusion, Civic Participation and Employment Working Group iv. Community Support and Health Services Working Group v. Emergency Preparedness and Response Working Group C. Discussion and possible action from Joint Inclusion Committee – Standing Item (Commissioner De Maria Nicola) D. Discussion and possible action of City of Austin Budget – Standing Item (Chair Briesemeister) 4. NEW BUSINESS A. Briefing and discussion on upcoming spending priorities for federal housing and community development grants as part of the Community Needs Assessment for the FY 22-23 Action Plan (Max Horstman, Mandy DeMayo, and Helen Howell). B. Presentation: A Decade of Growth: Austin Population and Demographic Trends, Lila Valencia, City of Austin Demographer. C. Discussion and possible action on Annual Officer Elections (Officer terms May 1st, 2022, D. Discussion and possible action on Commission on Seniors FY22 Community Service E. Discussion and possible action on budget recommendations for the City of Austin FY23 to April 30th, 2023). Award. Budget. 5. STAFF BRIEFINGS A. Age-Friendly Austin Update, Tabitha …
Approved Minutes — original pdf
1 COMMISSION ON SENIORS REGULAR MEETING MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, APRIL 13TH, 2022 The Commission on Seniors convened a Regular Meeting at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions, 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas, 78702 and remotely. Board Members in Attendance: Chair, Janee Briesemeister, Vice Chair, Peter Varteressian, Amy Temperley, Diana Spain, Emily De Maria Nicola, Erica Garcia‐Pittman, Fred Lugo, Jacqueline Angel, Martha Bauman, Martin Kareithi, Natalie Cagle, Patricia Bordie, and Sally Van Sickle. Board Members not in Attendance: Luz Lopez‐Guerrero Commissioner De Maria Nicola left the dais at 1:51 pm. Commissioner Angel left the dais at 2:02 pm. Staff in Attendance: Tabitha Taylor and Halana Kaleel, Austin Public Health Presenters: Max Horstman, Mandy DeMayo, Helen Howell, and Lila Valencia. Chair, Janee Briesemeister called the Board Meeting to order at 12:03 pm. The Commission introduced themselves. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION A. No Public Communication 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM THE COMMISSION ON SENIORS FEBRUARY 9TH, 2022 MEETING A. The minutes from the March 9th, 2022, meeting were approved on Vice‐Chair Varteressian motion, Commissioner Angel second on a 13‐0 vote. Commissioner Lopez‐Guerrero was absent. 2. ANNOUNCEMENTS A. None 3. OLD BUSINESS A. Discussion and possible action Commission Work Plan – Standing Item No discussion currently. B. Discussion and possible action from Working Groups – Standing Item Age Friendly Action Plan Implementation Working Group Transportation, Housing and Outdoor Spaces Working Group No discussion currently. No discussion currently. i. i. ii. iii. Social Participation, Respect and Social Inclusion, Civic Participation and Employment Working Group This working group needs a new member, meets every 4th Tuesday of the month. iv. Community Support and Health Services Working Group No discussion currently. i. i. i. i. i. i. v. Emergency Preparedness and Response Working Group No discussion currently. 2 C. Discussion and possible action from Joint Inclusion Committee – Standing Item (Chair D. Discussion and possible action of City of Austin Budget – Standing Item (Chair Briesemeister) Briesemeister) No discussion currently. No discussion currently. 4. NEW BUSINESS A. Briefing and discussion on upcoming spending priorities for federal housing and community development grants as part of the Community Needs Assessment for the FY 22‐23 Action Plan (Max Horstman, Mandy DeMayo, and Helen Howell). Presenters discussed review of FY20‐21 performance, federal reporting process, review of existing programs, community needs assessment/public comment schedule, and ways to provide feedback. B. Presentation: A Decade of Growth: Austin Population and …
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See Agenda for Additional Information — original pdf
COMMISSION ON SENIORS MARCH 9TH, 2022 AT 12:00PM AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 301 WEST 2ND STREET, AUSTIN, TEXAS, 78701 OR VIA VIDEOCONFERENCING Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register, please email or call Halana Kaleel at Halana.Kaleel@austintexas.gov or 512-972-5019. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Janee Briesemeister, Chair Peter Varteressian, Vice-Chair Natalie Cagle Jacqueline Angel Martha Bauman Patricia Bordie Emily De Maria Nicola Erica Garcia-Pittman AGENDA Amy Temperley Martin Kareithi Luz Lopez-Guerrero Sally Van Sickle Fred Lugo Diana Spain CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM THE COMMISSION ON SENIORS FEBRUARY 9TH, 2022 MEETING 2. ANNOUNCEMENTS 3. OLD BUSINESS A. Discussion and possible action Commission Work Plan – Standing Item B. Discussion and possible action from Working Groups – Standing Item i. Age-Friendly Action Plan Implementation Working Group ii. iii. Transportation, Housing and Outdoor Spaces Working Group Social Participation, Respect and Social Inclusion, Civic Participation and Employment Working Group iv. Community Support and Health Services Working Group v. Emergency Preparedness and Response Working Group Briesemeister) 4. NEW BUSINESS Award. Recommendations. 5. STAFF BRIEFINGS C. Discussion and possible action from Joint Inclusion Committee – Standing Item (Commissioner De Maria Nicola) D. Discussion and possible action of City of Austin Budget – Standing Item (Chair A. Discussion and possible action on Commission on Seniors FY22 Community Service B. Discussion and possible action on working group for drafting, submitting, and monitoring FY23 Budget Recommendations. C. Discussion and possible action on Commission on Seniors FY23 City of Austin Budget A. Age-Friendly Austin Update, Tabitha Taylor, Age-Friendly Program Coordinator. B. Commission on Seniors FY 2022 Budget Survey, Halana Kaleel, Staff Liaison 6. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 7. ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice …
BUDGET RECOMMENDATION 20220309-04Cvi: RENTAL AND UTILITY ASSISTANCE FOR OLDER ADULTS — original pdf
COMMISSION ON SENIORS BUDGET RECOMMENDATION 20220309-04Cvi RENTAL AND UTILITY ASSISTANCE FOR OLDER ADULTS Strategic Direction: Economic Opportunity and Affordability Date: March 9, 2022 Subject: FY23 Budget Recommendations Motioned By: Temperley Seconded By: Lopez-Guerrero Recommendation Expand funding for rental and utility assistance for all; and unlink rental payments for older adults from calculations based on median family income. Description of Recommendation to Council The Commission on Seniors recommends increasing funding for rental and utility assistance funding and programs for all, including older adults and discontinue basing rental payments for older adults on area median family income. Background and Rationale: Agencies serving older adults report that they are receiving an increased number of requests for rental and utility assistance. Austin is facing an unprecedented housing crisis as rent and utility costs increase. This has an even greater impact on older adults who are living on fixed incomes such as social security. A recent study, which compares the growth in the Social Security cost of living adjustments with increases in the costs of goods and services typically used by retirees, found that since 2000 Social Security benefits have lost 32% of their buying power. (https://www.thestreet.com/retirement/social- securitys-cola-raise-cant-keep-up-with-inflation) Housing costs and rents continue to increase exponentially in Austin. As noted in the City of Austin Comprehensive Market analysis for 2020 ( https://www.austintexas.gov/sites/default/files/files/Housing/Austin%20HMA_final.pdf ) ● Austin’s median rent increased 38% from 2010 ● Naturally occurring (market-rate) affordable rentals continued to decline Additional funds are needed to support older adults who may be at high risk for homelessness due to these increasing costs. Housing costs were cited as concerns of residents during the budget townhalls held by the Joint Inclusion Committee member commissions. An older adult from the Mueller neighborhood noted that affordable housing supported by the city base qualifications, and rent, on area median family income. However, median family income in Austin continues to rise at a much higher rate than social security or other retirement plans. The Commission on Seniors supports the request to no longer base rent increases for older adults on changes to area median family income. Vote For: Briesemeister, Varteressian, Angel, Bauman, Bordie, De Maria Nicola, Garcia-Pittman, Kareithi, Lopez-Guerrero, Lugo, Spain, Temperley, Van Sickle Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Cagle Attest: _______________________________________ Janee Briesemeister, Chair
BUDGET RECOMMENDATION 20220309 -04Cvii: SUPPORT FOR TRANSPORTATION AND VOLUNTEER DRIVER RIDE SERVICE FOR OLDER ADULTS — original pdf
COMMISSION ON SENIORS BUDGET RECOMMENDATION 20220309 -04Cvii SUPPORT FOR TRANSPORTATION AND VOLUNTEER DRIVER RIDE SERVICE FOR OLDER ADULTS Strategic Direction: Mobility Date: March 9, 2022 Subject: FY23 Budget Recommendations Motioned By: Varteressian Recommendation Provide funding and/or partner with organizations which provide the volunteer driver ride programs in Austin (examples include Chariot, Drive a Senior, Capital City Village, and others). Description of Recommendation to Council Seconded By: Kareithi • Direct the City Manager to identify appropriate City department staff and have them engage in discussions with the volunteer driver ride program managers to determine needs. • Have City department staffs identify funds, staff support, or other potential partnerships. • Include funding for transportation services in contracts for social service programs serving older adults. • Provide funds to expand these programs, such as supporting van services with paid drivers Rationale: Volunteer ride share providers serve a critical need for our community’s senior and people with disabilities. Demand for this service is high. Many people in these populations cannot drive. While Parks and Recreation and Capital Metro have services to assist these populations, the demand far exceeds the capacity. Further, many older adults who do not qualify for Metro Access will not ride the bus (for example, because there is not a nearby bus stop). Austin has one of the fastest growing senior populations in the nation so demand will only continue to increase. Older adults responding to the Commission on Seniors budget survey often cited transportation as a barrier to accessing city programs and services. Comments submitted to the Commission from the public also show a strong preference by older adults for transportation by the own vehicle, a ride share or a volunteer driver program. Volunteer Driver Ride programs provide a means to get older adults to the doctor, grocery store, or other critical appointments. Rides to social and cultural events would provide a means to help reduce social isolation, but these rides have to be given lower priority when demand exceeds capacity. If the City provides help, it could allow the organizations to scale up to meet demand, improve the organization’s ability to provide services more equitably, and develop collaborations to share resources. These 1 of 2 organizations are largely dependent on grants and their clientele cannot afford to pay a service fee. Vote For: Briesemeister, Varteressian, Angel, Bauman, Bordie, De Maria Nicola, Garcia-Pittman, Kareithi, Lopez-Guerrero, Spain, Temperley, Van Sickle Against: …
BUDGET RECOMMENDATION 20220309- 04Cviii: PERMANENT COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKERS STRATEGY PLAN FOR SERVING OLDER ADULTS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS — original pdf
COMMISSION ON SENIORS BUDGET RECOMMENDATION 20220309- 04Cviii PERMANENT COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKERS STRATEGY PLAN FOR SERVING OLDER ADULTS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS Strategic Direction: Health and Environment Date: March 9, 2022 Subject: FY 23 Budget Recommendation Motioned By: Garcia-Pittman Recommendation Seconded By: Temperley The Commission on Seniors recommends the Austin Public Health Homeless Services Division: 1. Transition the current temporary community health worker positions to 9 FTE permanent positions devoted to supporting the needs of persons experiencing homelessness. a. Of the allocated 9FTEs, 2 FTEs should be dedicated to serving the needs of persons 50 and older given the challenges and growth of this population as detailed below. 2. Develop and implement a strategy for serving the needs of older adults experiencing homelessness. Implementation should begin no later than January 1, 2023. The plan should: a. Identify the housing, health care, social, and other needs of older adults experiencing homelessness, including disability, long term care, dementia care, and caregiver support and develop programs to meet those needs; b. Ensure coordinated entry appropriately matches older adults with their needs; c. Include strategies to prevent older adults becoming homeless, such as deeply affordable housing and caregiver support; d. Develop the strategy in consultation with providers serving older adults and providers serving people experiencing homelessness (such as the collaborative described below). Rationale: Data provided by ECHO about the population experiencing homelessness in the Austin area shows that for all clients who entered a program between Oct 2019 and Oct 2020, 26% were age 50 or older. Nationally, data shows the number of older adults in the homeless population is growing rapidly and will continue to grow for the next decade. The number of older adults in the population of people experiencing homeless requires us to revisit and adapt assistance programs that were designed to address the needs of a much younger group and fail to account for medical, social, and emotional needs that emerge later in life. Older adults experiencing homelessness have diverse needs related to their housing, health care, social, and other needs. Further, the stresses of homelessness cause premature aging; Austin already classifies aged 55 and older in this population as older adults. In October 2020, a collaborative was formed in Central Texas to find ways to address the special needs of this aging homeless population. Members include representatives from both the aging and homeless space in non-profit, for- profit, and governmental organizations. Participants …
BUDGET RECOMMENDATION 20220309-04Ci: AGE FRIENDLY AUSTIN COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SPECIALIST — original pdf
COMMISSION ON SENIORS BUDGET RECOMMENDATION 20220309-04Ci AGE FRIENDLY AUSTIN COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SPECIALIST Strategic Direction: Government That Works Date: March 9, 2022 Subject: FY 23 Budget Recommendation Motioned By: Spain Recommendation Fund an FTE to serve as Community Engagement Specialist to support implementation of the Austin Age Friendly Action Plan. Description of Recommendation to Council Seconded By: De Maria Nicola The Commission on Seniors recommends funding an Age Friendly Austin Community Engagement Specialist. The Community Engagement Specialist will support the Age-Friendly Program Coordinator with day-to-day operations including, but not limited to, implementing the Age Friendly Austin Communication and Community Engagement Plan, supporting internal and external aging partners, and engaging in strategic planning efforts. Duties would include promoting Age-Friendly programs and services at local recreation centers, faith-based centers, and older adult facilities; facilitating trainings related to age-friendly practices; strengthening community partnerships; analyzing community data; and developing educational materials, including an asset map of programs and services. The Commission on Seniors is dedicated to improving equity in programs and services for older adults. To help achieve this goal the Communications and Outreach Coordinator will serve as a liaison between the Age Friendly Austin program and older adults, with emphasis on increasing communication and engagement with People of Color, LGBTQIA persons, low-income communities and other underrepresented or vulnerable older adults. Background and Rationale: Austin has one of the fastest growing populations of both “seniors (aged 65 and older) and “pre- seniors (aged 50-64). In response to these rapidly changing demographics, Mayor Lee Leffingwell formed the Mayor’s Task Force on Aging in 2012. The task force was charged with building public awareness, analyzing the city’s resources and opportunities for growth, and creating a set of strategic recommendations to accommodate Central Texas’ fast-growing senior population. The Task Force recommended both creating the Commission on Seniors and having Austin join the World Health Organization network of Age Friendly Communities. 1 of 3 Beginning in 2015, Austin’s Commission on Seniors partnered with AARP, AustinUP, regional aging-related service organizations and community members to develop the Austin Age-Friendly Action Plan, a requirement of retaining the Age Friendly designation. In 2016 Council voted to adopt the Age-Friendly Austin Action Plan as an addendum to Imagine Austin. In May 2018, the Commission on Seniors recommended to the Mayor and City Council that “The city provide adequate personnel resources for a Senior Program Coordinator to coordinate implementation of the Age-friendly Austin Action Plan. …
BUDGET RECOMMENDATION 20220309-04Cii: QUALITY OF LIFE STUDY OF OLDER ADULTS IN AUSTIN — original pdf
COMMISSION ON SENIORS BUDGET RECOMMENDATION 20220309-04Cii QUALITY OF LIFE STUDY OF OLDER ADULTS IN AUSTIN Strategic Direction: Government That Works Seconded By: Temperley Date: March 9, 2022 Subject: FY23 Budget Recommendation Motioned By: Varteressian Recommendation Fund a Quality of Life Study of Older Adults in Austin. Description of Recommendation to Council In order to improve the quality of life for older adults, Austin must better understand the experience of these individuals and how intersections between age, race, ethnicity, and other demographics impact those experiences. The Commission on Seniors recommends allocating $250,000 to conduct a study to evaluate the quality of life of older adults in Austin. $250,000 is the amount allocated for two recent Quality of Life Studies (People with Disabilities and LGBTQIA) Rationale: There has never been a proper quality of life study of older adults. Nearly 10 years ago then Mayor Leffingwell’s task force conducted a survey as part of the Mayor’s Task Force on Aging. However, 77% of respondents were white and this survey did not break down findings by race, ethnicity, or gender identification. According to the 2010 Census the Austin area is one of the fastest-growing areas for both seniors (age 65 and older) and pre-seniors (age 55-64). The city demographer has not yet released detailed demographics on age from the 2020 Census, but it is expected these trends will continue. The Commission is well aware that we hear primarily from older adults who are already active and engaged in the community. We want to know what other members of the community need; indeed, we want to understand how to better engage will all segments of the community. As an example, the Commission drafts and widely distributes an annual budget survey as a tool to get community input on budget recommendations. However, the majority of survey respondents are white women aged 65-74. The Commission is seeking updated information about the community and granular information about the needs of diverse populations of older adults. A Quality of Life Study will enable the Commission, Council and City departments to: 1 of 2 • Understand how city programs and services are serving older adults and where there are gaps • Identify and remove barriers to participation • Ensure programs and services for older adults are equitable and inclusive Per Austin Code Section 2-1-132 the Commission on Seniors shall serves as an advisory board to the council concerning the …
BUDGET RECOMMENDATION 20220309-04Civ: EXPANDING PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT — original pdf
COMMISSION ON SENIORS BUDGET RECOMMENDATION 20220309-04Civ EXPANDING PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT PROGRAMS AND SERVICES TO OLDER ADULTS Strategic Direction: Health and Environment, Mobility, Culture and Lifelong Learning Date: March 9, 2022 Subject: FY2023 Budget Recommendation Motioned By: Kareithi Recommendation The Commission on Seniors recommends the following budget items that will maintain and expand Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) programs and services for older adults. Seconded By: Van Sickle • Fund three temporary 20-hr/wk drivers and one temporary dispatcher to support the increase in routes and the high demand for private rides. • Fund an FTE Administrative Assistant position at each of the 18 PARD facilities serving the Adult 50+ Community. • Equitable Funding for the George Washington Carver Museum. Description of Recommendation to Council PARD provides numerous programs that serve older adults in Austin, including congregate meals and transportation to meals and some other appointments. PARD needs additional funding and staff to ensure all older adults who want to participate are able. • Funding three parti-time designated drivers and a dispatcher for the Senior Transportation Program will ensure PARD’s ability to serve the Adult 50+ Community while expanding congregate meal programs. • Funding 18 FTE Administrative Assistants at each of the 18 PARD facilities servicing the Adult 50+ Community will ensure an equitable standard of administrative operations for each site that is consistent and the same throughout the Community Recreation Division. Funding permanent positions should reduce turnover of staff in administrative positions. • The Carver is underfunded when compared to the Asian American Resource Center (estimated $100,000 to $200,000 less) and Mexican American Cultural Center (about $400,000 less). Additional funding would be used for temporary staff, commodities, and contracts. This funding is not currently in the PARD budget. Rationale: Senior Transportation Program: PARD offers participants rides through the Senior Transportation Program. The program is partially funded through a grant with the Capital Area Council of Governments that provides reimbursement for rides provided to facilities that participate in the Congregate Meal Program. Pre-pandemic this program 1 of 2 provided daily ride routes to 8 senior and recreation centers throughout the City of Austin as well as private rides to doctor’s appointments and personal errands. These routes were provided to all registered participants living within a 5-mile radius of the center. In 2019 Council approved the expansion of the congregate meal program from 8 to 10 sites. When the congregate meal program …