AFRICAN AMERICAN RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING September 24, 2024, at 5:30 pm. City of Austin Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Room 1401/1402 Austin, Texas 78752 Some African American Resource Advisory Commission members may participate in a video conference. Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, in person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration by telephone for remote participation is required by noon the day before the meeting. Call or email Linda Hayes at (512) 974-6282 Linda.Hayes@austintexas.gov to register to speak remotely. The African American Resource Advisory Commission convened in a special called meeting on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at City of Austin Permitting and Development Center, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr., Room 1401/1402, Austin, Texas 78752 Commissioners in Attendance: Dr. Chiquita Eugene (District 5) Antonio Ross (District 8) Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Serita Fontanesi, Chair (District 7) Mueni Rudd (District 2) Elaina Fowler (District 10) Roger Davis (GABC Appointee) Greg Smith (ARA Appointee) Kyron Hayes (AAUL Appointee) Dewi Smith Vice Chair (District 1) MEETING MINUTES CALL TO ORDER Dr. Chiquita Eugene called the African American Resource Advisory Commission meeting to order at 5:34 pm PUBLIC COMMUNICATION No Public Communication APPROVAL OF MINUTES on August 6, 2024. 1. Approve the minutes of the African American Resource Advisory Commission Meeting The minutes from the regular August meeting on 8/6/2024 were approved on Commissioner Fowler’s motion, Commissioner Fontanesi’s second on a vote of 8-0 DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation by Matthew Schmidt, Program Manager III, Economic Development Department on development Phase 1 Kick-Off in response to Resolution No. 20210902- 048. Commissioner Dr. Eugene recused herself from the discussion as a member of the Economic Development Department DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. The 2012 Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan, and possible action to appoint a representative to support the Imagine Austin comprehensive engagement process (Evelyn Mitchell, Planning Department). Postpone until Oct. meeting 4. Vote on a representative for the African American Cultural Heritage District Phase 1 Kick- Off in response to Resolution No. 20210902-048. Commissioner Rudd was nominated on a motion by Chair Fontanesi, seconded by Commissioner Ross. Approved by a vote of 6-0. Commissioner Dr. Eugene recused herself due to being a part of the Economic Development Department 5. Discussion and action to add Transportation and Public Safety …
AFRICAN AMERICAN RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING September 3, 2024, at 5:30 pm. City of Austin Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Room 1401/1402 Austin, Texas 78752 Some African American Resource Advisory Commission members may participate in a video conference. Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, in person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration by telephone for remote participation is required by noon the day before the meeting. Call or email Linda Hayes at (512) 974-6282 Linda.Hayes@austintexas.gov to register to speak remotely. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Serita Fontanesi, Chair (District 7) Daryl Horton, (Appointee) Mueni Rudd (District 2) Dr. Chiquita Eugene (District 5) Elaina Fowler (District 10) Joi Harden (District 9) Greg Smith (ARA Appointee) Cherelle Vanbrakle, Vice Chair (District 4) Dewi Smith (District 1) Anthony Jackson (District 3) Vacant (District 6) Antonio Ross (District 8) Vacant (AAUL Appointee) Vacant (NAACP Appointee) Roger Davis (GABC Appointee) MEETING AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION APPROVAL OF MINUTES on August 6, 2024. DISCUSSION ITEMS The first ten speakers signed up before the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1. Approve the minutes of the African American Resource Advisory Commission Meeting 2. Presentation by Matthew Schmidt, Program Manager III, Economic Development Department on development Phase 1 Kick-Off in response to Resolution No. 20210902- 048 . DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. The 2012 Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan, and possible action to appoint a representative to support the Imagine Austin comprehensive engagement process (Evelyn Mitchell, Planning Department). 4. Vote on a representative for the African American Cultural Heritage District Phase 1 Kick- Off in response to Resolution No. 20210902-048 . 5. Discussion and action to add Transportation and Public Safety to the AARAC By-Laws as a pillar to the quality of life to the African Americans in Austin led by Commissioner Dewi Smith, District 1. STAFF BRIEFING 6. Presentation by Sylnovia Holt-Rabb, Director of the City of Austin Economic Development Department, on the City’s August budget process and on the department’s Global Business Expansion, Small Business, Cultural Arts, Music and Entertainment, Workforce and Childcare, and Support Service divisions. WORKING GROUPS/COMMITTEE UPDATES 7. Budget Workgroup - updates from the workgroup, including committee members and budgeting …
AFRICAN AMERICAN RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING August 6, 2024, at 5:30 pm. City of Austin Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Room 1401/1402 Austin, Texas 78752 Some African American Resource Advisory Commission members may participate in a video conference. Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, in person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration by telephone for remote participation is required by noon the day before the meeting. Call or email Linda Hayes at (512) 974-6282 Linda.Hayes@austintexas.gov to register to speak remotely. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Serita Fontanesi, Chair (District 7) Daryl Horton, (Appointee) Mueni Rudd (District 2) Dr. Chiquita Eugene (District 5) Elaina Fowler (District 10) Joi Harden (District 9) Greg Smith (ARA Appointee) Cherelle Vanbrakle, Vice Chair (District 4) Dewi Smith (District 1) Anthony Jackson (District 3) Vacant (District 6) Antonio Ross (District 8) Vacant (AAUL Appointee) Nelson Linder (NAACP Appointee) Roger Davis (GABC Appointee) MEETING AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION The first ten speakers signed up before the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1. Approve the minutes of the African American Resource Advisory Commission Meeting APPROVAL OF MINUTES on June 4. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Joint inclusion replacement vote to approve. STAFF BRIEFING 3. Brief update on the affordable housing unit built since your last presentation, from Chanda Gaither, Manager the City of Austin Manager Housing Department WORKING GROUPS/COMMITTEE UPDATES 4. Budget Workgroup - updates from the workgroup, including committee members and budgeting related to the FY25 budget. (Budget Workgroup Members: Commissioners Elaina Fowler, Greg Smith, and Dewi Smith). 5. Strategic Planning Workgroup - updates from the last workgroup meeting on the strategic plan related to their assignment (Strategic Planning Workgroup Members: Commissioners Dewi Smith, Serita Fontanesi, Elaina Fowler, and Mueni Rudd). FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT: The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If you require sign language interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least two days (48 hours) before the meeting date. For additional information, please call Linda Hayes at the Economic Development Department …
African American Homeownership in Austin August 6, 2024 Presentation to the African American Resource Advisory Commission Past and Present Trends Contents: Programs Collaboration 2 Past and Present City of Austin Population by Race, 1940 - 2020 1,200,000 1,000,000 800,000 600,000 400,000 200,000 44 73,025 14,861 (16.9%) - 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 Black/African American White Other Race Source: US Census Bureau, Decennial Censuses 1940-2020 366,074 526,024 69,757 (7.3%) 4 City of Austin Homeownership Rates, 1940-2020 61% 52% 53% 50% 52% 52% 47% 44% 49% 49% 46% 44% 34% 37% 31% 25% 44% 41% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 Overall White Black/African American Other Race Source: US Census Bureau, Decennial Censuses 1940-2020 5 Median Household Incomes and Home Values, 2006-2022 (Dollars adjusted for inflation to match value in 2022) e m o c n I l d o h e s u o H n a d e M i $240,000 $200,000 $160,000 $120,000 $80,000 $40,000 $0 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 White Alone Householder Black or African American Alone Householder Asian Alone Median Home Value Hispanic or Latino Householder Source: American Community Survey 2006-2022 1-Year Estimates, Tables B19013(A-I) and B25077 i M e d a n H o m e V a u e l $600,000 $500,000 $400,000 $300,000 $200,000 $100,000 $0 6 African American Households, 2020 27,840 AA Households in the City of Austin Source: Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy Dataset (2016-2020 ACS 5-Year Average data) 7 African American Owner Households, 2020 7,975 AA Owner Households in the City of Austin Source: Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy Dataset (2016-2020 ACS 5-Year Average data) 8 Programs and Collaboration Programs 10 Programs 11 Homebuyer Programs Austin Community Land Trust (ACLT) Program design specific to ACLT 39 homes total – 20 renovated, 3 new build, 1 ADU 2 upcoming projects adding 50 new units, Austin Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC) is developer Program-specific considerations – Preference Policy – Right Sizing 12 Austin Community Land Trust Applicants Undisclosed 5% Other/Multicultural 4% White 18% Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander 0% Middle Eastern/Arab/North African 2% Hispanic/Latino/a/x Black/African American Asian/Asian American 4% American Indian/Alaska Native 2% 42% 32% 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 13 Displacement Prevention Homeowner Programs Home Repair …
African American Resource Advisory Commission (AARAC) MEETING June 4 2024 African American Resource Advisory Commission REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The African American Resource Advisory Commission convened a REGULAR meeting on TUESDAY, August 6, 2024, at 5:30 P.M. CST in the CITY OF AUSTIN PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Austin, Texas 78752 #1401/1402. Commissioners in Attendance: Serita Fontanesi, Chair (District 7) Roger Davis (GABC Appointee) Dewi Smith (District 1) Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Mueni Rudd (District 2) Greg Smith (ARA Appointee) Staff in Attendance: Dusty McCormick, Economic & Bus Dev Liaison, Economic Development Justin Parsons, Equity Officer, Economic Development Dr. Chiquita Eugene (District 5) Daryl Horton (Appointee) Joi Harden (District 9) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Chair Serita Fontanesi called the African American Resources Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 5:39 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION 1 African American Resource Advisory Commission (AARAC) MEETING The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. June 4 2024 1. Zenobi Joseph spoke about transportation needs on the eastside. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of the minutes of the African American Resource Advisory Commission Regular meeting on May 7th, 2024 were approved with the following correction(s): DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Committee STAFF BRIEFING 1. Commissioner Fowler approved to replace Chair Fontanesi in Joint Inclusion 1. Housing Department presentation on African-American homeownership trends and programs available to Austinites -- FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 1. Discuss adding transportation and public safety to AARAC bylaws 2. Discuss vacancies and quorm issues 3. Request a presentation from the City Demographer 4. Meet and Greet with new City Manager 5. Update from EDD Small Business Division 6. Meet and greet with new Police Chief ADJOURNMENT: 6:38 p.m. 2 African American Resource Advisory Commission (AARAC) MEETING The minutes were approved at the __________ meeting on COMMISSIONER __________ motion, COMMISSIONER _______ second on a ____ vote. June 4 2024 3
REGULAR CALLED MEETING of the AFRICAN AMERICAN RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION June 4, 2024, at 5:30 pm. City of Austin Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Room 1401/1402 Austin, Texas 78752 Some African American Resource Advisory Commission members may participate in a video conference. Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, in person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration by telephone for remote participation is required by noon the day before the meeting. Call or email Lindak.Hayes@austintexas.gov or Justin.Parsons@austintexas.gov to register to speak remotely. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Serita Fontanesi Chair (District 7) Mueni Rudd (District 2) Cherelle Vanbrakle, (District 4) Vacant (District 6) Elaina Fowler, (District 10) Joi Harden (District 9) Vacant (AAUL Appointee) Daryl Horton, (Appointee) Greg Smith (ARA Appointee) Dewi Smith Vice Chair (District 1) Anthony Jackson (District 3) Dr. Chiquita Eugene (District 5) Antonio Ross (District 8) Nelson Linder (NAACP Appointee) Roger Davis (GABC Appointee) MEETING AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION The first ten speakers signed up before the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the African American Resource Advisory Commission's regular Meeting on April 2, 2024. DISCUSSION ITEMS STAFF BRIEFING 2. The African American Cultural Heritage Facility team will update the commission on staff changes and departmental transitions. 3. Staffing briefing regarding the African American Cultural Heritage District Resolution No. 20210902-048 by Matthew Schmidt, Global Business Expansion Division Program Manager III WORKING GROUPS/COMMITTEE UPDATES 4. Budget Workgroup - updates from the workgroup, including committee members and budgeting related to the FY25 budget. (Budget Workgroup Members: Commissioners Elaina Fowler, Greg Smith, and Dewi Smith). 5. Strategic Planning Workgroup - updates from the last workgroup meeting on the strategic plan related to their assignment (Strategic Planning Workgroup Members: Commissioners Dewi Smith, Serita Fontanesi, Elaina Fowler, and Mueni Rudd). FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT: The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If you require sign language interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least two days (48 hours) before the meeting date. For …
African American Cultural Heritage District Resolution No. 20210902-048 Economic Development Department June 4, 2024 African American Cultural Heritage District Resolution No. 20210902-048 • Cultural Districts History • Resolution • Proposed Approach • Phase 1 • Phase 2 • Ongoing Challenges • Next Steps • Questions C I T Y O F A U S T I N AACHD History AACHD Cultural District History • Resolution No. 20071213-058 establishes the African American Cultural Arts District, the City of Austin’s first Cultural District • Achieved State Cultural District Designation through the Texas Commission on the Arts in 2009 • Established Six Square, the cultural district management entity, in 2013 • The City of Austin lacks a holistic cultural district resourcing policy C I T Y O F A U S T I N Economic and Cultural District Framework Policy The Economic Development Department seeks to develop a holistic framework to organize, recognize, and resource economic and cultural districts: • Policy aims to leverage economic benefits of concentrated activity in defined districts. • Districts serve as tourist attractions, offering diverse experiences. • Well-defined districts support thriving commerce and cultural preservation. • Unified management, branding, programming, and improvements amplify economic impact and foster synergy among stakeholders. • Economic Development Department intends to bring to Council a Policy for consideration on July 18th • Policy will have limited impact to AACHD initiatives C I T Y O F A U S T I N Resolution No. 20210902-048 Resolution No. 20210902-048 • Directs the City Manager to determine strategies necessary to implement various initiatives to preserve and enhance the African American Cultural Heritage District (AACHD) • FY24 City Council approved to support Resolution Initiatives: • Develop and Update Maps • Implement a Placemaking Program • Assist with Historic Designation of Sites • Establish a funding mechanism for • Develop Directional Wayfinding System for the AACHD Public Art and Cultural Programming • Create a Strategic Plan for the AACHD • Current Dedicated Funding Support: FY24 Budget Process – General Funds $200,000 (must be allocated by September 30th ) FY24 Historic Preservation Funds - $200,000* (concerns with applicability of funds) • • C I T Y O F A U S T I N Proposed Approach Proposed Approach • Assigned to Economic Development Department – Economic and Cultural Districts • Specializes in: Place-Based Economic Development Initiatives; Economic District Strategic Planning; Community Organizing/Education; Place-Enhancement; Project Implementation • Phase 1: …
African American Resource Advisory Commission (AARAC) MEETING June 4 2024 African American Resource Advisory Commission REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The African American Resource Advisory Commission convened a REGULAR meeting on TUESDAY, June 4, 2024, at 5:30 P.M. CST in the CITY OF AUSTIN PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Austin, Texas 78752 #1401/1402. Commissioners in Attendance: Serita Fontanesi Chair (District 7) Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Mueni Rudd (District 2) Dr. Chiquita Eugene (District 5) Joi Harden (District 9) Roger Davis (GABC Appointee) Staff in Attendance: Dusty McCormick, Economic & Bus Dev Liaison, Economic Development Justin Parsons, Equity Officer, Economic Development Greg Smith (ARA Appointee) Elaina Fowler, Chair (District 10) Anthony Jackson (District 3) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Chair Serita Fontanesi called the African American Resources Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 5:48 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1 African American Resource Advisory Commission (AARAC) MEETING June 4 2024 1. Dr.Hamiltorn spoke about the youth program she has established and would like to pack to the commission and do a formal presentation. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of the minutes of the African American Resource Advisory Commission Regular meeting on May 7th, 2024 were approved with the following correction(s): a. Commissioner Roger Davis marked in attendance. Listed as attendance remotely DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. The African American Cultural Heritage Facility team update was postponed until the August 6th meeting 2. Matthew Schmidt, Global Business Expansion Division Program Manager III provided an update on the African American Cultural Heritage District Resolution No. 20210902-048 a. Powerpoint presentation requested by Commissioner Rudd DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 1. Commissioner Fowler to replace Chair Fontanesi on the Joint Inclusion Committee 1. Revisit the name of the committee (African American Resource Advisory Commission) 2. Meet and Greet with new City Manager 3. Update from the Housing Department 2 African American Resource Advisory Commission (AARAC) MEETING ADJOURNMENT: 6:45 p.m. June 4 2024 -- The minutes were approved at the __________ meeting on COMMISSIONER __________ motion, COMMISSIONER _______ second on a ____ vote. 3
REGULAR CALLED MEETING of the AFRICAN AMERICAN RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION May 7, 2024, at 5:30 pm. City of Austin Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Room 1401/1402 Austin, Texas 78752 Some African American Resource Advisory Commission members may participate in a video conference. Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, in person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration by telephone for remote participation is required by noon the day before the meeting. Call or email Florinda Bryant at 512.974.2715 florinda.bryant@austintexas.gov to register to speak remotely. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Elaina Fowler, Chair (District 10) Daryl Horton, (Appointee) Mueni Rudd (District 2) Dr. Chiquita Eugene (District 5) Serita Fontanesi (District 7) Joi Harden (District 9) Greg Smith (ARA Appointee) Cherelle Vanbrakle, Vice Chair (District 4) Dewi Smith (District 1) Anthony Jackson (District 3) Vacant (District 6) Antonio Ross (District 8) Vacant (AAUL Appointee) Nelson Linder (NAACP Appointee) Roger Davis (GABC Appointee) MEETING AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION The first ten speakers signed up before the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the African American Resource Advisory Commission Special 2. Approve the minutes of the Committee’s Regular Called Meeting on February 6, 2024. Call Meeting on March 19h, 2024. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Cierra AKA DJ Wyldflower (CCed), Sunday Session ATX presentation. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair. WORKING GROUPS/COMMITTEE UPDATES 5. Budget Workgroup - updates from the workgroup, including committee members and budgeting related to the FY25 budget. (Budget Workgroup Members: Commissioners Elaina Fowler, Greg Smith, and Dewi Smith). 6. Strategic Planning Workgroup - updates from the last workgroup meeting on the strategic plan related to their assignment (Strategic Planning Workgroup Members: Commissioners Dewi Smith, Serita Fontanesi, Elaina Fowler, and Mueni Rudd). FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT: The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If you require sign language interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least two days (48 hours) before the meeting date. For additional information, …
African American Resource Advisory Commission (AARAC) MEETING MINUTES April 2, 2024 African American Resource Advisory Commission REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The African American Resource Advisory Commission convened a REGULAR meeting on TUESDAY, June 7, 2024, at 5:30 P.M. CST in the CITY OF AUSTIN PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Austin, Texas 78752 #1401/1402. Commissioners in Attendance: Cherelle Vanbrakle, Vice Chair (District 4) Dewi Smith (District 1) Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Elaina Fowler, Chair (District 10) Dr. Chiquita Eugene (District 5) Greg Smith (ARA Appointee) Serita Fontanesi (District 7) Staff in Attendance: Alejandra Mireles, Community Services Program Coordinator, Equity Office Justin Parsons, Equity Officer, Economic Development Nelson Linder (NAACP Appointee) Daryl Horton, (Appointee) Joi Harden (District 9) Mueni Rudd (District 2) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Cherelle Vanbrakle, Vice Chair called the African American Resource Advisory Commission meeting to order at 5:53 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION The first ten speakers signed up before the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. Zenobia Joseph – Cap Metro Concerns 1 African American Resource Advisory Commission (AARAC) MEETING MINUTES April 2, 2024 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of the minutes of the African American Resource Advisory Commission Special Call Meeting on March 19h, 2024, and February 6, 2024, was table to the June 4th meeting. The minutes were not approved and need to be approved on the June 4th agenda. 2. 3. DISCUSSION ITEMS DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion on Cierra AKA DJ Wyldflower (CCed), Sunday Session ATX on the park permit concerns of letting them have the entertainment in the parks throughout the city. Call for nominations for Commission leadership Chair Nominations: Dewi Smith – Nominated by Co-Chair Vanbrakle; Seconded by SMITH DECLINED NOMINATION Serita Fontanesi – Nominated by Commissioner Smith; Seconded by Daryl Horton FONTANESI NAMED CHAIR – Unanimous on a 9/0 Co-Chair Nominations: Dewi Smith - Nominated by Co-Chair Vanbrakle; Seconded by Daryl Horton DEWI SMITH named Co-Chair – Unanimous on a 9/0 WORKING GROUPS/COMMITTEE UPDATES 4. Budget Workgroup - updates from the workgroup, including committee members and budgeting related to the FY25 budget. (Budget Workgroup Members: Commissioners Elaina Fowler, Greg Smith, and Dewi Smith). This working group is dissolved until the next budget season 2 African American Resource Advisory Commission (AARAC) MEETING MINUTES April 2, 2024 5. Strategic Planning Workgroup - updates from the …
AFRICAN AMERICAN RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING April 2, 2024, at 5:30 pm. City of Austin Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Room 1401/1402 Austin, Texas 78752 Some African American Resource Advisory Commission members may participate in a video conference. Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, in person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration by telephone for remote participation is required by noon the day before the meeting. Call or email Florinda Bryant at 512.974.2715 florinda.bryant@austintexas.gov to register to speak remotely. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Elaina Fowler, Chair (District 10) Daryl Horton, (Appointee) Mueni Rudd (District 2) Dr. Chiquita Eugene (District 5) Serita Fontanesi (District 7) Joi Harden (District 9) Greg Smith (ARA Appointee) Cherelle Vanbrakle, Vice Chair (District 4) Dewi Smith (District 1) Anthony Jackson (District 3) Vacant (District 6) Antonio Ross (District 8) Vacant (AAUL Appointee) Nelson Linder (NAACP Appointee) Roger Davis (GABC Appointee) MEETING AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION APPROVAL OF MINUTES Meeting on February 6, 2024. DISCUSSION ITEMS The first ten speakers signed up before the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1. Approve the minutes of the African American Resource Advisory Commission Regular 2. Presentation of “The State of Black Austin – Black Paper 2024” by Meme Styles and Chas 3. Presentation on potential Austin Texas Poet Laureate Program by KB Brookline 4. Presentation of the needs of the Bethany Cemetery Organization/Cemetery for FY25 by Sue Moore Spears. 5. Presentation from Chase Wright, on Hungry Hill for 2024-2025 budget requests. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve African American Resource Advisory Budget Recommendations to Council FY25Approved Strategic Planning Retreat and Effectiveness next steps. WORKING GROUPS/COMMITTEE UPDATES 7. Strategic Planning Workgroup - updates from the last workgroup meeting on the strategic plan related to their assignment (Strategic Planning Workgroup Members: Commissioners Dewi Smith, Serita Fontanesi, Elaina Fowler, and Mueni Rudd). FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT: The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If you require sign language interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least two days (48 hours) …
Zenobia C. Joseph - Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits race discrimination! April 2, 2024 African-American Resource Advisory Commission Meeting Light Rail terminates in Central Austin—Hyde Park/38th Street “There is not, now, and never will be, negroes for neighbors in Hyde Park” Source: HydeParker Magazine (Hernandez, Sep2022) Action Item 6: FY 25. AARAC Budget Recommendations1 Title VI Disparate Impact Hyde Park whites UT-Austin 30th St. Frequent 7: $2M homes Shelters/construction Urban Transportation Commission March 28, 2024 Budget: Bike Safety 2 Northeast Black man/bike Nov. 3, 2017 Austin Chronicle CapMetro: “every policy has certain casualties . . . North/ Northeast.” Route 392 === FY 2025 Budget Recommendation: $22.9M Safe Streets & Roads for All Prioritize 392 neighborhood lights 2K apartment units need shelters! Safe Routes to Schools Yager/Tech Ridge Blvd. Title VI Disparate Impact: Close midblock stops (Chinatown: 405 riders; Metro Park) 2009: North Lamar 20-Month Study: 70% of pedestrian deaths occur midblock! March 6, 2024 Capital Metro will leave North Lamar midblock stops open. March 28, 2024 Vision Zero Update: Blacks = 7% of population: 17% deaths Budget Ask: $0 to $250K Save Lives: Close North Lamar midblock stops NOW! 3 FALSEHOOD–FHWA Sponsor: 2019 North Lamar to Parmer Sidewalks Complete! 405 Daily Riders/*Minorities risk their lives crossing North Lamar midblock—37,500 daily vehicles (COA, 2021 Hearing)! February 26, 2024: $60M McKalla Soccer Stop Opened, 70% Rail Riders = White vs. North Lamar “funding constraints” . . . ATP: “19.3 people doing Marketing . . . That’s excessive! That’s $4.7M.” ~Then-Finance Member Tony Elkins September 21, 2022 July 27, 2020 Project Connect Meeting. Dessau to ACC-Highland: 55-74% Minority ($4.7M Samsung-Apple MetroRapid eliminated!) 4 FY 2025 Budget: $ave Lives = $0 (Close Chinatown midblock stop; move to CVS-Braker/North Lamar; reactivate #1-Kramer) Install 801/1 CVS Shelter Parmer Station Model 5
About Hungry Hill Foundation We are a 2½ year old nonprofit from East Austin. We opened a resource center at 1189 Springdale in June 2022. Our annual budget is $750,000. We are a rare Black-lead non-profit, staffed completely by people with lived-in experience. Chase Wright, our executive director, has been in East Austin his entire life and was profoundly impacted by the economic and law-enforcement policies that impoverish East Austin. Despite accolades, our results were achieved with minimal support from the City of Austin and the philanthropic community because of the classic chicken/egg problem -- they can’t fund you without a track record of spending money well and you can’t build that track record without spending money. Workforce Development • Hungry Hill Foundation’s core mission is supportive employment. • We run a sophisticated multi-tier program that addresses the unique barriers for people who are unhoused or exiting incarceration at every step on their journey. • Our system leverages group dynamics to enable people to overcome the individual challenges that prevent them from being employable. • Target Outcomes: • Employment in jobs paying a living wage funded by private employers. • Sufficient income to pay less than 30% of wages on rent. • Resolution/Continued Treatment of root causes of homelessness. Impact Highlights – June 2022 to Present Employment Over 500 people came through our doors seeking employment, far more than we are funded for. We’ve provided 20+ hours of work opportunity to over 300. 60% of our labor costs is to people who are unhoused or at-risk. 2022 -- $100K, 2023 -- $310K, 2024 – $50K Nutritional Support 70 people served out of a single food truck @ 5 days per week. 700 meals (breakfast/lunch) per week; 2,800 per month; 200K since start Parks to Housing Selected Services Originally, there were around 60 people living in Givens and Springdale Parks. We helped move 20 people to apartments and 30 to city shelters. Only 5 people living in the parks currently. Removed 3,000 pounds of trash from two parks plus encampments. Take our Tour of Givens Park – dramatic differences from past. Partner: PARD 8,400 hours of Community-based public safety. Average 175 hours/week for a year. Visible reduction in crime reported to APD in areas we work. Partner: Life Anew and Jail to Jobs 5,700 hours of health-related outreach and social work (4 FTE for nine months) Complicated outcome story leading to …
African American Resource Advisory Commission (AARAC) MEETING MINUTES April 2, 2024 African American Resource Advisory Commission REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The African American Resource Advisory Commission convened a REGULAR meeting on TUESDAY, April 2, 2024, at 5:30 P.M. CST in the CITY OF AUSTIN PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Austin, Texas 78752 #1401/1402. Commissioners in Attendance: Elaina Fowler, Chair (District 10) Dewi Smith (District 1) Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Mueni Rudd (District 2) Serita Fontanesi (District 7) Nelson Linder (NAACP Appointee) Staff in Attendance: Alejandra Mireles, Community Services Program Coordinator, Equity Office Justin Parsons, Equity Officer, Economic Development Greg Smith (ARA Appointee) Joi Harden (District 9) Anthony Davis (ARA Appointee) Cherelle Vanbrakle, Vice Chair (District 4) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Chair Elaina Fowler called the African American Resource Advisory Commission meeting to order at 5:06 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. Zenobia Joseph – Cap Metro Concerns Tyra Clark, Change Grief – Program update & Invitation 1 African American Resource Advisory Commission (AARAC) MEETING MINUTES April 2, 2024 Meme Styles, Measure & Chas Moore, Austin Justice Coalition -State of Black Austin Tyra Clark, Change Grief – Program update & Invitation KB Brookins, Poet – Advocacy for Texas State Poet Laureate Sue Spears, BCA President – Budget support request for Bethany Cemetary Association APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the African American Resource Advisory Commission Special Call Meeting on March 19h, 2024. The minutes were not approved and needed to be approved on the May 7th agenda. DISCUSSION ITEMS Presentation of “The State of Black Austin – Black Paper 2024” by Meme Styles and Chas Moore See backup for presentation. Presentation on potential Austin Texas Poet Laureate Program by KB Brookline See backup for presentation. Presentation of the needs of the Bethany Cemetery Organization/Cemetery for FY25 by Sue Spears. See backup for presentation Presentation from Chase Wright on Hungry Hill for 2024-2025 budget requests (Did not present) DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve African American Resource Advisory Budget Recommendations to Council FY25. Record of the vote: Unanimous on an 8/0 vote. Commissioner D. Smith reclused herself from the Millenium recommendation. 2. 3. 4. 5. 2 African American Resource Advisory Commission (AARAC) MEETING MINUTES April 2, 2024 FUTURE AGENDA …
African American Resource Advisory Commission FY 25 Budget Recommendations Elaina Fowler, Chair (District 10) Charelle Vanbrakle, Vice Chair (District 4) Budget Recommendation #1 Austin Public Library Black Literature Expansion: $1.5M Justification: The current political climate has had a detrimental impact on youth who seek to connect with and learn from their cultural heritage through literature. This issue is particularly evident in the realm of African American authors and their works, which shed light on the struggles and experiences of African American communities. Public libraries are an integral part of our society, nurturing the minds of future generations. As Public Schools continue to reclaim their library autonomy it is vital Austin Public libraries expand their catalog to educate and inspire all individuals through the power of cultural reading. Public libraries serve as a vital resource for African American communities, offering summer reading programs and access to culturally specific literature and media. Therefore, the insufficient amount of African American literature in Austin Public Libraries would be a disservice to African Americans residing within the city limits and to all who have the curiosity to embrace diversity and learn from their stories. Investing in culturally significant African American literature would be a positive step for the Austin Public Library system, reinforcing Austin's commitment to inclusivity and diversity by addressing challenging topics such as institutional racism and implicit bias. It is essential for the City of Austin to increase the budget of the Austin Public Library beyond the zero-based budget to support a meaningful investment in African American literature within the library's collection. This investment would not only benefit the African American community but also underscore Austin's dedication to embracing diversity and promoting equitable access to valuable literary resources. Budget Recommendation # 2 Hungry Hill Foundation: $750,000 concurrent 3 year funding Justification: In Austin, the African American population comprises only 7% of the total population, yet African Americans represent a significant portion, 36%, of those who are experiencing homelessness in the city. The historical context of segregation in Austin, as laid out in the 1928 Master Plan, has perpetuated inequalities and disparities that continue to affect the African American community today. The deliberate segregation and unequal allocation of resources to create a "negro district" have had lasting residential impacts that are still evident. It is crucial for the City of Austin to prioritize equitable access to opportunities for all residents, regardless of their race. …
Special CALLED MEETING of the AFRICAN AMERICAN RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION March 19, 2024, at 5:30 pm. City of Austin Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Room 1401/1402 Austin, Texas 78752 Some African American Resource Advisory Commission members may participate in a video conference. Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, in person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration by telephone for remote participation is required by noon the day before the meeting. Call or email Florinda Bryant at 512.974.2715 florinda.bryant@austintexas.gov to register to speak remotely. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Elaina Fowler, Chair (District 10) Daryl Horton, (Appointee) Mueni Rudd (District 2) Dr. Chiquita Eugene (District 5) Serita Fontanesi (District 7) Joi Harden (District 9) Greg Smith (ARA Appointee) Cherelle Vanbrakle, Vice Chair (District 4) Dewi Smith (District 1) Anthony Jackson (District 3) Vacant (District 6) Antonio Ross (District 8) Vacant (AAUL Appointee) Nelson Linder (NAACP Appointee) Roger Davis (GABC Appointee) MEETING AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION The first ten speakers signed up before the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the African American Resource Advisory Commission Special Call Meeting on November 28th, 2023. 2. Approve the minutes of the Committee’s Regular Called Meeting on February 6, 2024. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Anne Gatlin Hayes, CTO of Austin Economic Development Corporation, will provide an update on Blocks 16 and 18. 4. Cara Berton, Equity-Based Preservation Plan draft sharing. 5. Chris Duran, Sr Research Analyst; Julie Smith, Community Engagement Specialist with the Housing Department; and Leslie Boyd, Interim Public Health Manager II with Austin Public Health, will share Federal funding priorities for a five-year strategic plan. 6. Amanda Johnston, Executive Director of Torch Literary Arts, will share information on 7. Kim Wright, Manager of Millennium Youth Entertainment Complex, provides updates the organization and the 2024-2025 budget request. on the complex, including impact and budget needs. 8. Azeem Edwin will share a presentation by American Gateways on the services they provide that improve the quality of life for the immigrant community in Austin. 9. Sue Spears, Bethany Cemetery Association presentation on needs of the organization/cemetery and 2024-2025 budget requests. 10. Chase Wright, Hungry Hill …
Discussion on community needs and spending priorities for the FY 24-29 Consolidated Plan for federal grants. Agenda Where Does Our Funding Come From? Planning and Reporting for Federal Funding How We Make Decisions Fair Housing Programs and Activities Overview What We've Heard From the Community Group and Community Input How do we fund our programs? HUD Annual Entitlement Grants Housing Trust Fund Approved City Bonds City Operating Budget Project Connect Anti-Displacement Funds CARES Act Federal Grants: Planning & Reporting Programs & Activites The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) allocates entitlement funding to municipalities and state governments. The City of Austin applies for what in recent years has been approximately $14 million in annual grant entitlements across four grants for affordable housing, community development, economic development, and public services. Each year, we plan and evaluate the programs funded by the HUD grants. 5 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Consolidated Plan (5-Year) Allocates federal resources to housing and community development Action Plan (1-Year) Summarizes actions, activities and federal/non- federal resources in the Consolidated Plan Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) (1-Year) End-of-year report on progress toward consolidated plan 6 How are funding decisions made? We are here Community Participation: Community Needs Assessment Available Use of Funding Sources Consolidated Plan Housing Needs & Market Analysis Other Planning Efforts Austin Strategic Housing Blueprint Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice 7 Consolidated Plan Funding Sources Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Goal: Provide decent housing and a suitable living environment; expand economic opportunities for low-income people Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) Goal: Benefit low-income persons living with HIV/AIDS and their families by providing supportive services and housing Consolidated Plan (5-Year) HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) Goal: create affordable housing for low- income households Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) Goal: Assist people to quickly regain stability in permanent housing after experiencing a housing crisis and/or homelessness 8 Fair Housing • 2019 Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (AI) • Potential upcoming "Equity Plan" related to fair housing • Seeking input and surveying on fair housing issues, experiences 9 Programs & Activities 10 Who Do We Serve? Fiscal Year 22-23 Snapshot 64.4% 3,017 # households served FY 22-23 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% 17.5% 16.7% Extremely Low Income (<30% MFI) Very Low Income (31%- 50% MFI) Low Income (51%-80% MFI) 1.4% 81%+ MFI *Income data does …
Torch Literary Arts Amplifying Black Women Writers TorchLiteraryArts.org ABOUT TORCH Founded in 2006, Torch Literary Arts is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization established to create advancement opportunities for Black women writers. We publish contemporary writing by emerging and experienced writers alike in our online publication, Torch Magazine. Our features have gone on to be nominated for the Emmy Awards, the Pulitzer Prize, and have received notable honors including the NAACP Image Award, National Book Award, Lambda Literary Award, and more. Torch has featured work by Tayari Jones, Sharon Bridgforth, Ebony Stewart, Lisa B. Thompson, Crystal Wilkinson, Sapphire, Evie Shockley, Natasha Trethewey, Shay Youngblood, and many others. Our programs include the Wildfire Reading Series, creative writing and professional development workshops, an annual retreat, and special events with community partners like the Texas Book Festival. “...if you are free, you need to free somebody else. If you have some power, then your job is to empower somebody else. ” ― Toni Morrison THE ISSUE Black women writers live and create at the intersection of race, gender, and class. Representation and visibility remain scant across the literary landscape. Creating and supporting spaces for the advancement of Black women writers is vital to ensure our voices are heard and our stories are available for all readers. While Toni Morrison was an editor at Random House, their first female Black editor, the number of Black authors published increased to 3.3 percent. However, the percentage dropped quickly after her departure. Of 512 books published by Random House between 1984 and 1990, only two were by Black authors: Morrison's Beloved and Sarah Phillips by Andrea Lee. One person cannot be responsible for changing the systems that continue to marginalize and silence diverse voices. From hiring publishing executives of color to supporting emerging writers finding their way to the page, we must encourage, empower, and nurture writers of color for inclusive representation on and off the page. Torch Literary Arts works to combat these disheartening statistics and make a meaningful impact in the lives of Black women by encouraging and amplifying their work as writers and industry leaders. 11% In 2018, only 11% of books published were by people of color. New York Times 5.3% In 2023, just 5.3% of people in publishing identified as Black or being of African Decent. Diversity Baseline Survey, Lee & Low Books 8% Only eight percent of literary journals pay contributors. The Millions …
