Play audio — original link
Play audio
All documents
Agenda — original pdf
REGULAR MEETING of the ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL Monday, May 5th, 2025, at 6:00 PM Virtual Meeting Members of the ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL may participate by video conference. Public comment will be allowed remotely via video conference or telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item 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 participation. To register to speak, call or email AIPP Program Manager Jaime Castillo at jaime.castillo@austintexas.gov, (512) 974-7852. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Chair – Stephanie Lemmo, Andrew Danziger, Taylor Davis, Bernardo Diaz, Kristi-Anne Shaer, Monica Maldonado – Arts Commission Liaison AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 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. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve minutes of the Art in Public Places Panel Regular Meeting on April 7th, 2025 DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. 5. Discussion of Arts Commission Liaison Report on Action Items from April 21st, 2025, Arts Commissions Meeting by Arts Commission Liaison Maldonado Discussion of Revised Concept Design for the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) West Gate Expansion (WGE) Playscapes Art in Public Places Project – Reinaldo Correa Discussion of Concept Design for the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) Terminal Expansion Phase (TEP) II B / Atrium Infill Art in Public Places Project – Matthew Mazzotta and Josef Kristofoletti Discussion of TEMPO 2025 Partnership with The Trail Conservancy DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. ACTION: Approve the Selection Process Recommendations for the Substandard Streets Art in Public Places Project – Johnny Morris Road and Ross Road Projects ACTION: Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair STAFF BRIEFINGS 8. Art in Public Places Staff Briefing on Conservation, Current Projects, and Milestones FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 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 at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please contact AIPP Program Manager Jaime Castillo at jaime.castillo@austintexas.gov or (512) 974- 7852 for additional information; TTY users' route through Relay Texas at 711.
Agenda — original pdf
TECHNOLOGY COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING Wednesday – April 30th, 2025 – 6:30PM City Hall – Boards and Commission – Room 1101 301 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701 Some members of the BOARD/COMMISSION may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via 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 by telephone. To register to speak remotely, email Dan Martinez at dan.martinez@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Steven Apodaca, Chair Keith Pena-Villa Thomas Rice Benjamin Combee Suzanne Heritage Sumit DasGupta Carina Alderete, Vice Chair Brian AM Williams Rachel Frock Nicholas Eastwood Ibiye Anga AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten 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. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Technology Commission meeting on February 12th, 2025. 2. Approve the minutes of the Technology Commission meeting on March 5th, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation on PANO AI, a wildfire tracking system (Christopher Vetromile, Wildfire Mitigation Manager, Austin Energy) 4. Presentation on Austin Free Net’s public resource distribution strategy (Jasmin Vargas, Program Coordinator, Austin Free Net) 5. Housing Department update on their annual Action Plan, their application to Housing and Urban Development’s formula grants and the potential impact on local communities (Rocio Peña-Martinez, Grants Program Manager, and Julie Smith, Engagement Specialist, Housing Department) DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Review and approval of GTOPs Core 2025 selected recipients 7. Officer elections, discussion and approval of chair position 8. Officer elections, discussion and approval of vice chair position WORKING GROUP UPDATES 9. Public Surveillance working group updates regarding further interviews with stakeholders and subsequent action items 10. Artificial Intelligence Working Group updates on next steps on strategic direction and timing of next meeting FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 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 you require Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 …
Item 5 backup. housing department presentation — original pdf
M E M O R A N D U M TO: Mayor and City Council THROUGH: Jon Fortune, Deputy City Manager FROM: Carrie Rogers, Intergovernmental Relations Officer DATE: February 25, 2025 SUBJECT: Federal Legislative Update / Potential Reductions at the Department of Housing and Urban Development As a follow up to memorandums issued on January 29, 2025, February 11, 2025, and February 17, 2025, the Intergovernmental Relations Office (IGRO), along with partner departments, continues to review federal administration actions relating to direct and discretionary funding awarded to the City of Austin. On Thursday, February 20, 2025, public reports began circulating of a planned 50% reduction in staff across the entire workforce at the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). In some HUD divisions, the cuts could be deeper – up to 84% at HUD’s Office of Community Planning and Development (CPD) – according to reports. Such a drastic reduction would likely have a significant impact on efforts across the nation to address homelessness and make housing more affordable. CPD includes many programs critically important to the City of Austin, such as HOME Investments Partnerships Program (HOME), Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA), and Continuum of Care (CoC) programming. The City of Austin receives approximately $14 million per year in HUD block grants. An additional $14 million was awarded this January for CoC programs, which primarily support services to address homelessness in Austin through non-profit partners. City of Austin HUD Community Programming Based on the information we have today, and in reviewing the City’s Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) with the Housing Department, the Homeless Strategy Office and Austin Public Health, staff identified the following areas where drastic reductions to HUD personnel and/or a reduction in funding would impact the City of Austin’s community programming: Page 1 of 3 HOME Program ($3,073,266) • HOME provides Tenant Based Rental Assistance to 65 families/individuals experiencing homelessness. The contract is administered through the Housing Authority of the City of Austin (HACA) and coordinated with our Continuum of Care (ECHO). • HOME provides funding for Down Payment Assistance (DPA) for 25 low- to moderate- income homebuyers who are first-time homebuyers. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) - $7,223,444 • Currently, CDBG funding provides programs or services to more than 14,000 Austinites. • CDBG provides critical mental health services, childcare services, and services to …
Item 6 GTOPs awardees recommendations — original pdf
TO: Technology Commission M E M O R A N D U M FROM: Dan Martinez, Business Process Specialist, Financial Services Department DATE: April 9, 2025 SUBJECT: 2025 Grant for Technology Opportunities (GTOPs) Awardees The purpose of this memorandum is to request the Commission review and to advise staff on the twelve (12) 2025 GTOPs Core Awards, as scored by the GTOPs Grant Review Committee (the Committee) from April 4, 2025, with specific award amounts set by formula and the process described below. GRANT PROGRAM PURPOSE GTOPs provides matching grant funds to Austin organizations that promote resident access to information technology, or that offer literacy programs that create digital opportunities and foster digital inclusion, particularly in underserved segments of our community. The goals of the program are to: ○ Increase use of digital and communications technology devices ○ Increase knowledge and skills of digital and communications technology ○ Increase access to and usage of the Internet AWARDEE SCORING AND SELECTION PROCESS Letters of Interest (LOI) for 2025 GTOPs Core were accepted from November 15, 2024 through January 8, 2025, thirty-four (34) LOIs were received. Grant applications were accepted from January 15, 2025, through February 12, 2025. The Technology Commission appointed a volunteer Grant Review Committee comprised of nine (9) qualified community representatives, three (3) of whom dropped from the panel prior to final scoring. The City received a total of twenty-five (25) applications for GTOPs 2025 Core. Prior to final scoring, the applicants were given the opportunity to respond to questions generated by the Committee. The Committee scored these applications using the GTOPs scoring criteria, including: Impact • Alignment with GTOPs Goals • • Success/feasibility • Budget and fiscal responsibility After the final scores were submitted by the Committee, the scores were ranked ; the top and bottom reviewer scores were then dropped in accordance with the Olympic style scoring system adopted in 2022. The remaining scores were averaged to give the formal score. Bonus points were allocated as programmatically 1 required, giving the final application score. The final application scores were then entered into an algorithm that distributed awards proportional to the scoring of each organization, within program parameters. The parameters considered by the algorithm are: 1) $315,000 in GTOPs funds available. 2) The minimum amount awarded to any organization is 70% of the requested amount. 3) Funds are distributed proportional to differences in scoring. 4) All funds must …
Play video — original link
Play video
Approved Minutes — original pdf
Technology Commission http://www.austintexas.gov/cttc SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday –April 30th, 2025 – 6:30PM Austin City Hall – Boards and Commissions Room – Room 1101 301 W 2nd St., Austin, TX 78701 Please go to http://www.austintexas.gov/cityclerk/boards_commissions/meetings/10_1.htm for backup materials associated with this agenda. All ATXN (City Channel 6) programming is cablecast on Spectrum, Grande Communications, and Google Fiber on their cable channel 6, on AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 and webcast online. Over 20 meetings per month, including this commission meeting, are available on demand online, typically within a found at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/atxn-video-archive. the cablecast. Schedules and video can be few hours of The Technology Commission convened in a Special Called meeting on Wednesday, March 30th, 2025, at 301 W 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Current Commission Members Vacant ‐ Mayor Kirk Watson Brian AM Williams ‐ Council Member Natasha Harper‐Madison, District 1 Steven Apodaca – Council Member Vanessa Fuentes, District 2 Carina Alderete ‐ Council Member José Velasquez, District 3 Suzanne Heritage ‐ Council Member José “Chito” Vela, District 4 Thomas Rice‐ Council Member Ryan Alter, District 5 Rachel Frock‐ Council Member Krista Laine, District 6 Benjamin Combee ‐ Council Member Mike Seigel, District 7 Nicholas Eastwood ‐ Council Member Paige Ellis, District 8 Ibiye Anga – Council Member Zohaib “Zo” Qadri, District 9 Milena Pribic ‐ Council Member Marc Duchen, District 10 Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance in person: Steven Apodaca, Chair Carina Alderete, Vice Chair Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Ibiye Anga Brian AM Williams 1 Suzanne Heritage Benjamin Combee Board Members/Commissioners Not in Attendance: Thomas Rice Rachel Frock Nicholas Eastwood Milena Pribic CALL TO ORDER Chair Apodaca called the Technology Commission Meeting to order at 6:49 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers who register to speak no later than noon on the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. There were no speakers registered to deliver comments. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Technology Commission meeting on February 12th, 2025. Motion to approve the minutes made by Chair Apodaca and seconded by Vice Chair Alderete. The minutes from (02/12/2025) were approved on a vote of 6-0. 2. Approve the minutes of the Technology Commission meeting on March 5th, 2025. Motion to approve the minutes made by Chair Apodaca and seconded by Commissioner Heritage. The minutes from (03/05/2025) were approved on a …
Agenda — original pdf
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING of the PLANNING COMMISSION TUESDAY, APRIL 29, 2025, 6:00 PM AUSTIN CITY HALL, COUNCIL CHAMBERS, ROOM 1001 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Planning Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely. Registration no later than 2 PM the day of the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. For more information on public comment, please see the agenda section “Speaker Registration.” Please contact Ella Garcia, Staff Liaison, for questions regarding speaker registration at LandUseLiaison@austintexas.gov or by phone at 512-978-0821. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Awais Azhar, Chair (Mayor’s Representative) Alice Woods, Vice Chair (District 2) Felicity Maxwell, Secretary (District 5) Casey Haney, Parliamentarian (Mayor’s Representative) Claire Hempel (District 8) Anna Lan (Mayor’s Representative) Patrick Howard (District 1) Nadia Barrera-Ramirez (District 3) Greg Anderson (District 4) Imad Ahmed (District 6) Adam Powell (District 7) Danielle Skidmore (District 9) Joshua Hiller (District 10) EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS: Jessica Cohen, Chair of Board of Adjustment Candace Hunter, AISD Board of Trustees TC Broadnax, City Manager Richard Mendoza – Director of Transportation and Public Works EXECUTIVE SESSION (No public discussion) The Planning Commission will announce it will go into Executive Session, if necessary, according to Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, to receive advice from Legal Counsel on matters specifically listed on the agenda. The Commission may not conduct a closed meeting without the approval of the city attorney. Private Consultation with Attorney – Section 551.071. Staff Liaison: Ella Garcia, 512-978-0821 Attorney: AJ Urteaga, 512-974-2386 AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first four 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. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Planning Commission regular meeting on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. PUBLIC HEARINGS 2. LDC Amendment: C20-2023-037 - SMART Housing Updates Phase 2 Request: Staff Rec.: Staff: Amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to modify requirements, including fee waivers and affordability period, for the City’s S.M.A.R.T. Housing Program Recommend Brendan Kennedy, 512-978-1594, brendan.kennedy@austintexas.gov Housing Department STAFF BRIEFING 3. Staff briefing regarding the Integrated Bond Program Development and Delivery Plan. Presentation by Eric Bailey, 512-974-7713, eric.bailey@austintexas.gov 4. …
01 Draft Meeting Minutes April 8, 2025 — original pdf
PLANNING COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025 The Planning Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001, 301 W. Second Street, in Austin, Texas. Chair Hempel called the Planning Commission Meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Claire Hempel Awais Azhar Greg Anderson Alice Woods Nadia Barrera-Ramirez Felicity Maxwell Imad Ahmed Adam Powell Danielle Skidmore Joshua Hiller Anna Lan Casey Haney Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Patrick Howard Ex-Officio Members in Attendance: Jessica Cohen Ex-Officio Members in Attendance Remotely: Candance Hunter Ex-Officio Members Absent: TC Broadnax Richard Mendoza 1 PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Stuart Harry Hersh: Made comments regarding the affordability of Safe, Mixed- Income, Accessible, Reasonably- priced, Transit (SMART) Housing. Philip Wiley: Made comments regarding supply chain management (SCM), specifically in reference to Mobility-Oriented Development (MOD) and Transit- Oriented Development (TOD). APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Planning Commission regular meeting on March 11, 2025, and March 25, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of March 11, 2025, and March 25, 2025, were approved on the consent agenda on Commissioner Maxwell’s motion, Commissioner Haney’s second, on a 13-0 vote. PUBLIC HEARINGS 2. Plan Amendment: NPA-2023-0014.04 - 4302 Nuckols Crossing; District 2 Location: 4302, 4304 1/2, & 4316 Nuckols Crossing Road, Williamson Creek Watershed; Southeast Combined (Franklin Park) Neighborhood Plan Owner/Applicant: Katherine Barnidge Agent: Request: Staff Rec.: Staff: LOC Consultants Civil Division (Sergio Lozano-Sanchez, P.E.) Single Family to Multifamily Residential land use Staff Postponement Request to May 27, 2025 Maureen Meredith, 512-974-2695, maureen.meredith@austintexas.gov Planning Department The motion to approve Staff’s postponement request to May 27, 2025, was approved on the consent agenda on Commissioner Maxwell’s motion, Commissioner Haney’s second, on a 13-0 vote. C14-2025-0028.SH - The Bloom at Lamar Square; District 9 1326 - 1328 Lamar Square Drive, Lady Bird Lake Watershed 3. Rezoning: Location: Owner/Applicant: FC Austin Fifteen Housing Corporation (Walter Moreau) Agent: Request: Staff Rec.: Staff: Foundation Communities (Kyle Russell) MF-4 & MF-5 to CS Staff Recommends CS-CO Marcelle Boudreaux, 512-974-8094, marcelle.boudreaux@austintexas.gov Planning Department The motion to approve Staff’s recommendation of CS-CO for C14-2025-0028.SH - The Bloom at Lamar Square, located at 1326 - 1328 Lamar Square Drive, was approved on the consent agenda on Commissioner Maxwell’s motion, Commissioner Haney’s second, on a 13-0 vote. 2 4. Rezoning: Location: C14-2024-0163 - 1700 South Lamar; District 9 1700 S. Lamar Blvd., 1401 …
02 C20-2023-037 - SMART Housing Updates Phase 2 Affordability Impact Statement — original pdf
Affordability Impact Statement S.M.A.R.T. Housing Updates Phase 2 Case number: C20-2023-037 Initiated by: Resolution No. 20230720-129 Date: 3/15/2025 Proposed Regulation The proposed amendments include: • • Lowering the median family income (MFI) eligibility for rental properties from 80% to 60% while allowing income averaging to meet affordability requirements. Standardizing program administration by requiring affordability restrictions to be executed before certification. • Removing exceptions for community land trust units—an underutilized and administratively infeasible provision. • Eliminating outdated or inconsistent provisions to align with these amendments. Land Use/Zoning Impacts on Housing Costs The proposed changes would have a positive impact on housing costs. The proposed amendments will lower the eligible MFI level for rental properties from 80 percent to 60 percent and allow for income averaging to achieve the required MFI. This will improve consistency and clarity across programs and is responsive to recommendations recently made from the Comprehensive Density Bonus Study conducted by the Planning Department, the Strategic Housing Blueprint and the Displacement Mitigation Strategy. Impact on Development Cost The proposed changes would have a neutral impact on development cost. The SMART Housing program provides fee waivers for certain development permits. As noted in the staff report, SMART Housing is almost always paired with other affordable housing programs for either funding or 02 C20-2023-037 - SMART Housing Updates Phase 2 1 of 2 density bonuses, such as the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit or Affordability Unlocked, which means deeper affordability requirements are required in almost all cases. Staff have found that fewer than 10% of applications within the last five years have provided exclusively 80% MFI units for rental. The amendments to MFI may mean that certain developments which are considered "workforce housing" may see fewer fee waivers. However, the amendments to allow income averaging ensures that full fee waivers will still be available to workforce housing, but will encourage additional units at deeper 50% and 60% MFI levels in alignment with the City's Strategic Housing Blueprint goals. Impact on Affordable Housing The proposed changes would have a positive impact on affordable housing. These amendments will strengthen affordable housing outcomes by increasing the number of deeply affordable units available. By aligning incentives with the City’s strategic goals, these updates ensure that more housing is accessible at 50% and 60% MFI levels. Streamlining administrative processes will also enhance the program’s effectiveness, making it easier to implement affordability requirements efficiently. S.M.A.R.T. Housing remains a …
02 C20-2023-037 - SMART Housing Updates Phase 2 Draft Ordinance — original pdf
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 ORDINANCE NO. _________________ AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ARTICLE 15 (S.M.A.R.T. HOUSING PROGRAM) OF CITY CODE CHAPTER 25-1 (GENERAL REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURES) RELATED TO PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS AND PROVISIONS THAT APPLY TO OTHER AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROGRAMS. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: PART 1. City Code Section 25-1-701 (Definitions) is amended to amend the definition of “Director” to read: (1) DIRECTOR means the director of the City's [Neighborhood] Housing [and Community Development] Department. PART 2. City Code Section 25-1-702 (Administration) is repealed and replaced to read: § 25-1-702 ADMINISTRATION. (A) The director administers, implements, and enforces the S.M.A.R.T. Housing program. (B) The director is authorized to adopt, administer, and implement program guidelines and establish requirements for an application under the program. PART 3. City Code Section 25-1-703 (Program Requirements) is amended to amend Subsection (C), to delete Subsection (D), and to re-letter the remaining subsection to read: § 25-1-703 PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS. (C) Except as provided in Subsection (D), a reasonably-priced dwelling unit is one that is affordable for purchase or rental by a household that meets the housing costs and income qualifications of this subsection. (1) This paragraph provides qualifications on the amount of household income spent on housing costs. (a) Except as provided by Subparagraphs (b) and (c), housing costs of a household may not exceed 30 percent of its gross income. (b) A household may spend up to 35 percent of its gross income on housing costs if a household member receives City-approved homebuyer counseling. (c) A household that complies with other federal, state, or local income eligibility standards is not subject to the expenditure qualifications of Paragraphs (a) and (b). (2) This paragraph provides qualifications on household income. 4/22/25 SMART Housing Program Update Page 1 of 4 COA Law Department 02 C20-2023-037 - SMART Housing Updates Phase 2 1 of 4 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 (a) (b) If an applicant develops dwelling units for sale, reasonably-priced dwelling units must serve households whose incomes average 80 percent of the median family …
02 C20-2023-037 - SMART Housing Updates Phase 2 Staff Presentation — original pdf
Planning Commission S.M.A.R.T. Housing Amendments Phase 2 Brendan Kennedy, Program Manager Housing Department S.M.A.R.T. Housing S.M.A.R.T. Housing Incentives Fee waivers Permit review benefits Gatekeeper requirement for new construction seeking most City affordable housing approvals 3 S.M.A.R.T. Housing Requirements Affordable units at or below 80% MFI (both rental and sale) – Minimum of 10% of units affordable = 25% fee waiver – Scales up to 40% of units affordable = 100% fee waiver Requires AEGB 1-Star certification and additional accessibility/visitability standards Requires transit proximity, with options for waiver set in Code 4 S.M.A.R.T. Housing is usually paired with other affordable housing programs, such as a density bonus, financing, or a tax exemption for feasibility. 94% of applications within the last 5 years paired S.M.A.R.T. with another affordable housing tool 93% of applications within the last 5 years provided affordable units at MFI levels of 60% MFI or below 5 Initiation – Resolution No. 20230720-129 Phase 1: Amend Section 25-1-704 so that fees eligible for a waiver under the S.M.A.R.T. Housing program would be identified as part of the annual fee ordinance (DSD - completed Feb. 2024) Phase 2: Amend Title 25 as needed to improve the operation and functionality of the S.M.A.R.T. Housing program. 6 Proposed Amendments Amendment #1 – Land Restriction Process Amend § 25-1-705 (D) to require affordability restrictions to be executed prior to certification – Establishes consistency between programs – Ensures applicants are aware of and bound to requirements at an earlier stage 8 Amendment #2 – CLT exemption Amend § 25-1-704 (B)(2)(a-b) to remove exemption for land dedicated to City-approved CLT. – Presents significant administrative burdens and infeasible to implement – Underutilized by dedicated CLT entities – City has additional tools for CLT housing available 9 Proposed Amendment #3 – Rental MFI Amend § 25-1-703 (C)(2)(a) to lower affordable rental MFI from 80% MFI to an average 60% MFI – Establishes consistency between programs by requiring 60% MFI rental – Reduces confusion on affordability from permit reviewers – Meets Department’s programmatic goals to target 60% MFI and below – Income averaging still accommodates "workforce housing" when deeper affordability levels are provided 10 Amendment #4 – Remove Outdated Provisions Remove in their entirety: – § 25-1-702 (B), a requirement to notify TPW of all S.M.A.R.T. developments – § 25-1-703 (D),§ 25-1-704 (B)(2)(c), and § 25-1-705 (A)(4), …
02 C20-2023-037 - SMART Housing Updates Phase 2 Staff Report — original pdf
ORDINANCE AMENDMENT REVIEW SHEET Amendment: C20-2023-037 S.M.A.R.T. Housing Updates Phase 2 Description: Amend the City’s S.M.A.R.T. Housing Program and City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to improve the functionality of the program. Background: Initiated by City Council Resolution 20230720-129. On July 20, 2023, City Council approved Resolution No. 20230720-129 that directed staff to make amendments to S.M.A.R.T. Housing. Staff with the Development Services Department initiated amendments related to Phase 1, which amended Section 25-1-704 so that fees eligible for a waiver under the S.M.A.R.T. Housing program would be identified as part of the annual fee ordinance. On February 1, 2024, City Council approved Ordinance No. 20240201-053 to adopt these amendments. Phase 2 directs staff to amend the S.M.A.R.T. Housing program to improve the functionality of the program. Summary of Proposed Code Amendment: Amendments to § 25-1-703 (C)(2) will lower the eligible median family income (MFI) level for rental properties from 80 percent to 60 percent MFI. Amendments to this section will also allow for income averaging to achieve the required MFI for both rental and ownership. This will improve consistency and clarity across programs, and is responsive to recommendations recently made from a comprehensive density bonus study conducted by the Planning Department. Amendments to § 25-1-705 (D) will improve program administration and consistency across programs by requiring affordability restrictions to be executed prior to certification. § 25-1-704 (B)(2)(a-b) will be removed in its entirety to eliminate a provision related to exceptions for certain units dedicated to a community land trust, which has been underutilized and is administratively infeasible. Additional provisions will be removed to eliminate outdated provisions or provisions which are inconsistent with the amendments listed above. Proposed Text Amendment(s): Amend § 25-1-703 (C)(2)(a) to read, or amend with comparable language: “ dwelling units must serve households whose incomes average 80 percent of the median family income or below as determined by the director of the Housing Department. (a) If an applicant develops dwelling units for sale, reasonably-priced (b) If an applicant develops dwelling units for lease, reasonably-priced dwelling units must serve households whose incomes average 60 percent of the median family income or below as determined by the director of the Housing Department.” Amend § 25-1-705 (D) to read, or amend with comparable language: 02 C20-2023-037 - SMART Housing Updates Phase 2 1 of 2 “(D) Before the director may certify a proposed development, the applicant shall comply with …
03 Integrated Bond Program Development and Delivery Plan Staff Presentation — original pdf
Capital Delivery Services Public Improvement Bond Program Integrated Bond Program Development and Delivery Plan Planning Commission Update Eric Bailey Deputy Director Capital Delivery Services “Effectively and Efficiently Deliver Quality Projects with the Concept of Speed” 1 AGENDA • CDS Overview • What is a General Obligation Bond Program? • Improved Bond Development Process • Staff Work Completed to Date • Guiding Principles, Technical Criteria, & Scoring Matrices • Progress to Date & Upcoming Milestones “Effectively and Efficiently Deliver Quality Projects with the Concept of Speed” 2 Created in 2023 with the goal of reducing project delivery time Who we are • Engineers • Architects • Project managers • Community Engagement Our partners • Consultants • Contracting teams • City asset owners • Community members • Mayor & Council Role in 2026 Bond Program One City – One Team – One Approach to effectively and efficiently deliver quality public projects. • Convene asset owner departments to develop needs assessment • Guide the process to ensure projects are vetted and scopes/schedules/budgets are accurate and realistic • Coordinate projects across departments to achieve mutual benefits What is a General Obligation Bond Program? Typical Bond Projects: • Flood and Erosion Control Improvements • New or Replacement City Facilities • Rehabilitation of Existing Facilities • Housing Infrastructure/Housing Projects • Street and Thoroughfare Improvements o Sidewalks o Traffic Signals • Park and Recreation Facilities • Public Safety Facilities (Fire/EMS/Police) • Land Purchase 4 What is a General Obligation Bond Program? Types of work NOT included: • Routine operations and maintenance activities o Potholes o Minor street repair o Landscaping maintenance o General building maintenance Improvements for short term leased space • • Code enforcement initiatives • Employee salaries (including police & fire) • AE/AW Capital Projects typically funded by using debt are funded via AE and AW revenue bonds, not General Obligation debt and thus are not for the 2026 GO Bond Program City of Austin | Capital Delivery Services Department | One City, One Team, One Approach to Capital Delivery 5 Improved Bond Delivery Process for 2026 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 Council calls for Bond Election (Aug) Bond Election (Nov) BEATF Meetings, Council, and Public Engagement HOW WE’VE DONE BONDS IN THE PAST: Project Proposals RFP’s/RFQ’s Project Planning to develop scope, schedule, budget Design Construction WHAT WE’RE DOING NOW: Needs Assessment and Project Evaluation Project Planning to develop scope, schedule, …
04 Planning Department Timeline for Initiatives — original pdf
LEAD TEAM PLANNING ACTIVITIES JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC 2025 2026 PLANNING DEPARTMENT PLANNING INITIATIVES APRIL 2025 ETOD SMALL AREA NORTH LAMAR TC STATION AREA VISION PLAN ETOD SMALL AREA SOUTH CONGRESS TC STATION AREA VISION PLAN SMALL AREA AGRICULTURALLY FOCUSED NEIGHBORHOODS HIST. PRESERVATION DOWNTOWN HISTORIC RESOURCES SURVEY CODE AMENDS EQUITY OVERLAY STUDY COMP. PLAN. INDUSTRIAL STUDY URBAN DESIGN URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES UPDATE URBAN DESIGN GREAT STREETS PLAN AND STANDARDS UPDATE ETOD SMALL AREA EAST RIVERSIDE CORRIDOR VISION PLAN UPDATE DISTRICT PLAN. NORTHEAST DISTRICT PLAN COMP. PLAN. IMAGINE AUSTIN UPDATE DISTRICT PLAN. GREATER 78702 INITIATIVE (NORTH RIVER/EAST) DISTRICT PLAN. DOWNTOWN AUSTIN PLAN “DAP” (CENTER CITY/CENTRAL) HIST. PRESERVATION TRANSFER OF DEVELOPMENT RIGHTS ANALYSIS TIMELINE TBD TIMELINE TBD TIMELINE TBD DISTRICT PLAN. DISTRICT PLANNING FRAMEWORK ETOD SYSTEMWIDE CRESTVIEW TOD PLAN UPDATE TIMELINE TBD TIMELINE TBD CHART KEY PLANNING PROCESS SCOPING AND COST ESTIMATING DEVELOPMENT AND/OR ENGAGEMENT REVIEW AND/OR ADOPTION DATES FOR REVIEW AND/OR ADOPTION CITY COUNCIL Updated 4/10/25 04 Staff briefing regarding the timeline for Planning Department planning initiatives1 of 1
01 Revised Draft Meeting Minutes April 8, 2025 — original pdf
PLANNING COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025 The Planning Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001, 301 W. Second Street, in Austin, Texas. Chair Hempel called the Planning Commission Meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Claire Hempel Awais Azhar Greg Anderson Alice Woods Nadia Barrera-Ramirez Felicity Maxwell Imad Ahmed Adam Powell Danielle Skidmore Joshua Hiller Anna Lan Casey Haney Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Patrick Howard Ex-Officio Members in Attendance: Jessica Cohen Ex-Officio Members in Attendance Remotely: Candance Hunter Ex-Officio Members Absent: TC Broadnax Richard Mendoza 1 PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Stuart Harry Hersh: Made comments regarding the affordability of Safe, Mixed- Income, Accessible, Reasonably- priced, Transit (SMART) Housing. Philip Wiley: Made comments regarding supply chain management (SCM), specifically in reference to Mobility-Oriented Development (MOD) and Transit- Oriented Development (TOD). APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Planning Commission regular meeting on March 11, 2025, and March 25, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of March 11, 2025, and March 25, 2025, were approved on the consent agenda on Commissioner Maxwell’s motion, Commissioner Haney’s second, on a 13-0 vote. PUBLIC HEARINGS 2. Plan Amendment: NPA-2023-0014.04 - 4302 Nuckols Crossing; District 2 Location: 4302, 4304 1/2, & 4316 Nuckols Crossing Road, Williamson Creek Watershed; Southeast Combined (Franklin Park) Neighborhood Plan Owner/Applicant: Katherine Barnidge Agent: Request: Staff Rec.: Staff: LOC Consultants Civil Division (Sergio Lozano-Sanchez, P.E.) Single Family to Multifamily Residential land use Staff Postponement Request to May 27, 2025 Maureen Meredith, 512-974-2695, maureen.meredith@austintexas.gov Planning Department The motion to approve Staff’s postponement request to May 27, 2025, was approved on the consent agenda on Commissioner Maxwell’s motion, Commissioner Haney’s second, on a 13-0 vote. C14-2025-0028.SH - The Bloom at Lamar Square; District 9 1326 - 1328 Lamar Square Drive, Lady Bird Lake Watershed 3. Rezoning: Location: Owner/Applicant: FC Austin Fifteen Housing Corporation (Walter Moreau) Agent: Request: Staff Rec.: Staff: Foundation Communities (Kyle Russell) MF-4 & MF-5 to CS Staff Recommends CS-CO Marcelle Boudreaux, 512-974-8094, marcelle.boudreaux@austintexas.gov Planning Department The motion to approve Staff’s recommendation of CS-CO for C14-2025-0028.SH - The Bloom at Lamar Square, located at 1326 - 1328 Lamar Square Drive, was approved on the consent agenda on Commissioner Maxwell’s motion, Commissioner Haney’s second, on a 13-0 vote. 2 4. Rezoning: Location: C14-2024-0163 - 1700 South Lamar; District 9 1700 S. Lamar Blvd., 1401 …
02 C20-2023-037 - SMART Housing Updates Phase 2 Staff Memo — original pdf
M E M O R A N D U M TO: Mayor and City Council THROUGH: Stephanie Hayden-Howard, Assistant City Manager FROM: Mandy DeMayo, Interim Director, Housing Department DATE: April 25, 2025 SUBJECT: SMART Housing Program – Staff Response (Resolution No. 20230720-129) The purpose of this memorandum is to respond to Resolution No. 20230720-129 regarding amendments to the Safe, Mixed-Income, Accessible, Reasonably-priced, Transit-Oriented (SMART) Housing program. The resolution directed the City Manager to identify fees eligible for waiver in the annual fee ordinance and pursue any additional administrative updates to improve program effectiveness. The amendments related to fee waivers have been completed by the Development Services Department and were approved in Ordinance No. 20240201-053. This memorandum outlines the Housing Department’s recommendations for further administrative amendments. Housing staff have identified and drafted proposed amendments to improve the SMART Housing Program’s operation and functionality. Staff presented the draft amendments to the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee on April 16th and will present to the Planning Commission on April 29th before being brought forward for the City Council’s consideration with an anticipated public hearing scheduled for the May 22nd City Council meeting. As a result, the draft amendments are subject to further changes. Staff proposes to: • • Amend the Median Family Income (MFI) requirements for rental housing from 80% MFI to 60% MFI, and allow income averaging to achieve the required MFI level Amend the certification process to align with the standard affordable housing certification process outlined in City Code section 4-18-25 • Remove numerous outdated or administratively infeasible provisions The proposed amendments are anticipated to have minimal programmatic impact. Additional resources would be needed to pursue more substantial revisions to the SMART Housing program, as the current resolution only addresses administrative updates to improve program effectiveness. A comprehensive update to the program would allow staff to evaluate substantial updates to existing requirements, consider extending the program’s scope, and weigh the budgetary impacts of changes to the program. However, this would require significant staff time across multiple departments, extensive community engagement, stakeholder involvement, third-party economic 02 C20-2023-037 - SMART Housing Updates Phase 2 1 of 2 PAGE: DATE: SUBJECT: 2 of 2 April 25, 2025 SMART Housing Program – Staff Response (Resolution No. 20230720-129) analysis, and internal evaluations. Accordingly, staff is currently assessing the resources necessary to undertake the comprehensive update. In the meantime, the proposed SMART Housing amendments being offered will …
Play video — original link
Play video
Agenda — original pdf
REGULAR MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD APRIL 28, 2025 – 6:00 PM CITY HALL CHAMBERS, ROOM 1001 301 W. 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Parks and Recreation Board may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. For remote participation, registration must be completed no later than noon the day before the meeting. To register to speak, click here: https://forms.office.com/g/vz4wFsgDC5 or call or email Tim Dombeck, (512) 974- 6716, Tim.Dombeck@austintexas.gov. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and may be allowed up to three (3) minutes to provide their comments. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Pedro Villalobos (D-2), Chair Kathryn Flowers (D-4), Vice Chair Shelby Orme (D-1) Nicole Merritt (D-3) CALL TO ORDER Stephanie Bazan (D-5) Luai Abou-Emara (D-6) Diane Kearns-Osterweil (D-7) Kim Taylor (D-8) Jennifer Franklin (D-9) Holly Reed (D-10) Lane Becker (Mayor) PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 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. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of March 24, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for PARD Staff working behind the scenes in the Support Services Division to maintain excellent administrative services across a large, diverse department. (Sponsors: Villalobos, Flowers) (PARD Long Range Strategies: Park Access for All, Urban Public Spaces). Presenter(s): Ben Rustenhaven, Business Process Consultant and David Hillers, Financial Services Division Manager, Parks and Recreation Department. 3. Conduct officer elections for Chair and Vice Chair of the Parks and Recreation Board. STAFF BRIEFINGS 4. Staff briefing on Parks and Recreation Department community engagement events, planning updates, development updates, maintenance updates, program updates and administrative updates. (Sponsors: Villalobos, Flowers) (PARD Long Range Strategies: Relief from Urban Life, Urban Public Spaces, Park Access). Presenter(s): Jesús Aguirre, Parks and Recreation Director. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Page 1 of 2 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 at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Tim Dombeck at …
01-1: Draft Minutes of March 24, 2025 — original pdf
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES MARCH 24, 2025 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MARCH 24, 2025 The PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD convened in a REGULAR meeting on March 24, 2025 at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas Vice Chair Flowers called the PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Stephanie Bazan, Lane Becker, Kathryn Flowers, Jennifer Franklin, Nicole Merritt. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Luai Abou-Emara (left meeting at 7:44 p.m.), Holly Reed. Board Members Absent: Shelby Orme, Kim Taylor, Pedro Villalobos. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Liz Barhydt - Austin Rowing Club Chris Flores - Swim scholarships and budget recommendation Gavino Fernandez - Mexican American Land Owners in East Austin Mike Cannatti - Joan Mean Khabele Bathhouse Project Joy Casnovsky - Austin Parks Foundation Fleetwood Jacobs - Zilker 351 Joel Manzo - Barton Springs and Zilker Park budget issues Mary Fero - Wildfire mitigation at Northwest park APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of February 24, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of February 24, 2025 was approved on Board Member Franklin’s motion, Board Member Bazan’s second on a 7-0 vote with one vacancy. Board Members Orme, Taylor and Villalobos absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for PARD Staff who have increased low- income access to PARD programs by improving financial aid programs, effective collaboration and removal of barriers. 1 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES MARCH 24, 2025 Christa McCarthy, Centralized Programming Division Manager and Davin, Bjornaas, Program Manager, Parks and Recreation Department gave a presentation and answered questions. The motion to and approve letters of support for PARD Staff who have increased low-income access to PARD programs by improving financial aid programs, effective collaboration and removal of barriers was approved on Vice Chair Flowers’ motion, Board Member Becker’s second on a 7-0 vote with one vacancy. Board Members Orme, Taylor and Villalobos absent. 3. Presentation, discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council to approve the negotiation and execution of an interlocal agreement between the City of Austin and the Austin Independent School District for Project SAFE, a swim lesson and water safety education program that includes opportunities for students to continue their education by joining either paid or free swim lessons …
02-1: PARD Support Services Presentation — original pdf
P ARD S UP P ORT S ERVICES Parks Board Meeting April 28, 2025 Ben Rustenhaven & David Hillers Austin Parks and Recreation Department Support Services Mission: To be value-added business partners that get results. Long Range Plan Goal E: Optimize and improve efficiency of operations Leverage partnerships and revenue opportunities to elevate the quality of PARD operations and maintenance while upholding equitable park access and ensuring a sustainable and well- balanced budget. Communications and Engagement Unit Public Information / Media Relations Marketing / Social Media Management Web / Creative Services Community Engagement Media Request Report s: • FY2 4 - 2 5 7 m e d ia re q u e s t s • FY2 5 - 8 7 m e d ia re q u e s t s • 2 0 17- 2 0 2 4 Avg . # o f Re q u e s t s : 3 8 8 10 Awards since 2021 2025 Blue Pencil and Gold Screen Award from the National Association of Government Communicators for the Tillery Neighborhood Park Community Gathering 2024 Blue Pencil and Gold Screen Award from the National Association of Government Communicators recognizing the Outreach Campaign for A Celebration of Life for a Tree Named Flo 2023 Blue Pencil and Gold Screen Award from the National Association of Government Communicators for the Ceremonial Moment of Silence and Splash Honoring Civil Rights Activist Joan Means Khabele Texas Recreation and Park Society (TRAPS) Promotions and Marketing Excellence Award – Class I – for Parque Zaragoza: Communidad, Cultura, y Resiliencia 2022 Blue Pencil and Gold Screen Award from the National Association of Government Communicators for the Community Engagement Forum on the Historic Montopolis Negro School Open House 2021 City-County Communications and Marketing Association (3CMA) Silver Circle Award for the Our Parks, Our Future Long-Range Plan National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors Award of Distinction for the 2020 Zilker Tree Lighting Special Texas Association of Municipal Information Officers Award: Award of Excellence for the Parks and Recreation Department for the 2019 Annual Report Texas Association of Municipal Information Officers Award – Award of Honor – Electronic Report for the Our Parks, Our Future Long-Range Plan Texas Association of Municipal Information Officers Award: Award of Honor – Public Service Announcement for Bark Rangers: Poop Offender Leave No Trace Awareness Campaign HR- Employment / Compensation PARD HR Employment/Compensation held several department wide …
04-1: Director's Update, April 2025 — original pdf
AUSTIN PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR’S UPDATE April 28, 2025 Welcome to AUSTIN PARKS & RECREATION VISION The Parks and Recreation Department will be an innovative leader in parks and recreation experiences. MISSION Inspire Austin to learn, play, protect and connect by creating diverse programs and experiences in sustainable natural spaces and public places. Ensure Parkland Offers Relief from Urban Life Recreation Services - Art in the Park Therapeutic Recreation Youth and adults with disabilities created art with many local organizations on April 10th at Fiesta Gardens for the annual Art in the Park event. Approx. Attendance 900 - Fishing Club Therapeutic Recreation Alamo Recreation Center took twelve adults with disabilities on their first fishing trip to Lady Bird Lake learning basic fishing skills while enjoying being with peers on a pier. – TILT Graduation Community Initiatives The Teens In Leadership Training (TILT) program held their graduation on April 10th with 24 students. Graduates will work for PARD this summer as Jr. Activity Specialists! Athletic Programs – South Austin Little League The South Austin Little League celebrated their 75th anniversary on March 30th with games, food, team pictures and fun activities. Approx. Attendance 400 Community Recreation Hancock Recreation Center The highlight of the evening was teens participating in the escape room designed by PARD staff. This year’s theme was the Hunger Games edition. - Tweens Night Out South Austin Recreation Center Parents and children work together while exploring art projects. - Crafty Tots Mendez Recreation Center Over 72 dogs and 130 people made it out to the park for free doggie and human games. -12th Annual Dog Extravaganza Varsity Games ~Yard Games & Pickleball Competitors will face off in Corn Hole, Washers, and Horseshoes on April 11th and 12th. On April 26th and 27th our annual pickleball tournament will occur at Turner-Roberts Recreation Center. Aquatics Aquatic Maintenance Recently completed eco-finishing at Dove Springs Pool and Big Stacy Pool. Repairs have also been completed at the Liz Carpenter Splash Pad, and preparations are underway for the rest of the splash pads in anticipation of summer. Barton Springs Successfully reopened on March 15th following its annual spring cleaning. Deep Eddy Currently undergoing its annual spring cleaning and is scheduled to reopen on April 19th . Instructional Swim Programing and Public Pools As of April 9th, we have 377 lifeguards ready to work. As of April 11th, we have had 963 total lifeguard applicants, …
Play video — original link
Play video
02-2: Signed Letters of Support — original pdf
Backup
Approved Minutes — original pdf
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES APRIL 28, 2025 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES APRIL 28, 2025 The PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD convened in a REGULAR meeting on April 28, 2025 at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas Chair Villalobos called the PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Meeting to order at 6:11 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Luai Abou-Emara, Stephanie Bazan, Kathryn Flowers, Diane Kearns- Osterweil, Nicole Merritt, Holly Reed, Pedro Villalobos. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Lane Becker, Jennifer Franklin, Shelby Orme, Kim Taylor. Board Members Absent: None. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Nicole Netherton - Pease Park Conservancy Dayna Williams - Austin Rowing Club Scott Cobb - Lifeguard issues Chris Flores - Thanks to Holly Reed for her service to the Parks and Recreation Board Kayla Reese - Austin Parks Foundation APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of March 24, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of March 24, 2025 was approved on Chair Villalobos’ motion, Vice Chair Flowers’ second on an 11-0 vote. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for PARD Staff working behind the scenes in the Support Services Division to maintain excellent administrative services across a large, diverse department. David Hillers, Financial Services Division Manager and Ben Rustenhaven, Business Process Consultant, Parks and Recreation Department gave a presentation and answered questions on the evaluation of KPIs. The motion to approve letters of support for PARD Staff working behind the scenes in the Support Services Division to maintain excellent administrative services across a large, diverse 1 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES APRIL 28, 2025 department was approved on Chair Villalobos’ motion, Board Member Merritt’s second on an 11-0 vote. 3. Conduct officer elections for Chair and Vice Chair of the Parks and Recreation Board. The motion to elect Stephanie Bazan to the officer position of Chair of the Parks and Recreation Board was approved on Chair Villalobos’ motion, Board Member Becker’s second on a 10-0 vote. Board Member Reed abstaining. The motion to elect Kathryn Flowers to the officer position of Vice Chair of the Parks and Recreation Board was approved on Board Member Becker’s motion, Board Member Franklin’s second on 9-0 vote. Board Member Reed and Taylor abstaining. STAFF BRIEFINGS 4. Staff briefing on Parks and Recreation Department community engagement …
Agenda — original pdf
REGULAR MEETING OF THE LIBRARY COMMISSION April 28, 2025 – 6 P.M. John Henry Faulk Building 800 Guadalupe Street Austin, Texas This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and online virtual participation. Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via 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 by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Pamela Carlile Kezia Frayjo Sara Gore Andrea Herrera Moreno CALL TO ORDER AGENDA Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Magen Davis Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Edward Selig PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first five 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. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on March 31, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library School Partnerships by Jenny Stirrat, School Partnerships Librarian, Austin Public Library. 3. 4. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Nature Smart Libraries Initiative by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian, Austin Public Library. Staff briefing on APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair of the Library Commission. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 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 you require Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Laura Polio at the Library Department, at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Library Commission, please contact Laura Polio at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov.
Backup — original pdf
Austin Public Library Nature Smart Libraries Initiative Cities Connecting Children to Nature Laura Tadena Community Engagement Librarian Nature Smart Library Strategy Chair Austin Public Library OVERVIEW Background and Overview of CCCN APL’s Nature Smart Library Initiative Future Plans & Opportunities CITIES CONNECTING CHILDREN TO NATURE (CCCN) AUSTIN Cities Connecting Children to Nature is a national initiative initiative that seeks to create more equitable and abundant access to nature in cities through a partnership between The National League of Cities Institute for Youth, Education, and Families and the Children & Nature Network. CCCNS VISION AND MISSION Cities Connecting Children to Nature strives to ensure every child has access to and connection with nature every day. WE ARE COMMITTED TO CONNECTING PEOPLE WITH THE NATURAL SPACES WHERE THEY LIVE, LEARN, AND PLAY, WHICH FOSTERS LIFELONG BENEFICIAL RELATIONSHIPS WITH NATURE. CCCN COLLABORATES ACROSS INSTITUTIONS AND SYSTEMS, AMPLIFYING EFFORTS, SHARING RESOURCES, AND CREATING PARTNERSHIPS THAT DEEPEN OUR COLLECTIVE VISION AND ADVANCE OUR MISSION. CCCN AUSTIN: OUR EVOLUTION City adopts Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights & begins collection of nature deficient area data Four focal strategies with Outdoor Learning Environments (OLE!) Temp, Full-Time Coordinator position funded through WPD; FTE CCCN Program Coordinator position reclassified as Program Manager 2016 2018 2020 2022 Critical look at integration of racial equity lens to all strategies; Integration into City-wide plans; new NSL Strategy Chair & adoption of new APL Strategic Plan 2017 2019 2021 2023-PRESENT Austin receives strategic planning & implementation grant from CCCN Focus on Green School Parks, Nature Play, Youth Leadership & FTE CCCN Program Coordinator position through PARD Five focal strategies with addition of Nature Smart Libraries Temp, Full-Time Coordinator position becomes FTE, funded through WPD + PARD; Dedicated funding for Nature Play and Joint-Use sites in City Budget CCCN AUSTIN: 2022 ACCESS TO NATURE MAP ZIPCODE ANALYSIS: MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME, CHILD POPULATION, INVERSE TREE CANOPY, WATERWAYS, & PARKLAND DISADVANTEGED ACCESS TO NATURE 5%-15% 16%-30% 31%-50% 50%-97% AUSTIN CHILDREN’S OUTDOOR BILL OF RIGHTS The Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights (COBOR) illustrates what equitable access to nature should look like in Austin and establishes a common foundation and high aspirations for nature connection in the community. Austin City Council unanimously voted to pass the COBOR on January 26, 2017. Sign The Austin COBOR CCCN AUSTIN: FIVE STRATEGIES Green School Parks Nature Play Early Childhood Emerging Green Leaders Nature Smart Libraries SYSTEMS CHANGE APPROACH The Cities Connecting Children …
Backup — original pdf
Library Commission Meeting Minutes March 31, 2025 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 31 MARCH 2025 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, March 31, 2025, at the Menchaca Branch Library, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Commissions in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair, Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair, Magen Davis, Edward Selig, Pamela Carlile, Kezia Frayjo Commissions in Attendance Remotely: Mark Smith, Sara Gore Commissions Absent: Andrea Herrera Moreno, Suchitra Gururaj, Melissah Hasdorff PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the December 16, 2024, regular meeting. The minutes from the regular meeting on December 16, 2024, were approved on a motion by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Vice Chair Mehta, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Segel abstaining and Commissioners Herrera Moreno, Suchitra Gururaj and Hasdorff absent. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. Library Commission Meeting Minutes March 31, 2025 STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing on City of Austin Bond Update by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager, and Baylor Johnson, Public Information & Marketing Program Manager, Austin Public Library. The briefing was presented by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager, and Baylor Johnson, Public Information & Marketing Program Manager, Austin Public Library. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. 3. Staff briefing of the March APL Public Programming Highlights, and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The briefing was presented by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. DISCUSSION 4. Discussion of library-related bills in the current legislative session. Commissioner Smith provided information on library-related bills in the current legislative session. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 5. Report from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group regarding advocacy and engagement to support the Austin Public Library. Commissioner Smith provided the Final Report and Recommendations from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group regarding advocacy and engagement to support the Austin Public Library. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Discussion and approval of the report and recommendations from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group regarding advocacy and engagement to support the Austin Public Library. A motion to approve …
Play audio — original link
Play audio
Backup — original pdf
1 APL Public Programming Highlights & Facilities Updates Hannah Terrell, Interim Director April 2025 HIGHLIGHTS APL Welcomes Zell Miller III Zell Miller III is a poet, theater artist, creative force, and now the City of Austin’s first ever Poet Laureate. He is known for his thought-provoking works that explore identity, culture, and the human experience. With a passion for storytelling and performance, Miller has made significant contributions to the arts, particularly in the realms of poetry and theater. In 2004, he was voted the best/poet writer in the Austin Chronicle. In 2017, he was inducted into the Austin Arts Hall of Fame. Through his work, Zell Miller III continues to inspire others to explore their own creativity and question the world around them. His dedication to using art as a platform for dialogue and change has made him a distinctive and influential voice in the contemporary arts scene. On April 14, APL hosted Zell’s welcome reception at the Special Events Center. It was a night of poetry, connection, celebration, and fun. He is an excellent and exciting addition to Austin Public Library! April 26: Greater Austin Book (GAB) Fest The Greater Austin Book (GAB) Fest invites our community of readers, writers and illustrators from Travis, Williamson, and Hays Counties to come together for a full day celebration of books. At GAB Fest you can meet participating authors, buy books and get them signed, explore the Central Library, and enjoy a full day of panels, workshops, and programs. This event fosters an environment of inclusivity, encouraging individuals to come together, and celebrate their appreciation for literature. This year’s GAB Fest will be held at the Central Library on Saturday, April 26. APL Celebrates National Library Week National Library Week, which this year took place from April 6-April 12, is an annual celebration highlighting the valuable role libraries, librarians, and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening our communities. Austin Public Library Staff prepared activities in all of our locations tied to this year’s theme of “Drawn to the Library.” Each location was given a board to display in a common area where members of the public could post sticky notes answering the question: “Why are you drawn to your library?” Additionally, the marketing team tagged along to an outreach event with the Mobile Library to create a video to celebrate National Library Outreach Day. National Library Week also includes National …
Backup — original pdf
SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS Jenny Stirrat, School Partnerships Librarian SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS GOALS Ensure easy and equitable access to library resources Support students, schools, educators, and families Create life-long library users OUTREACH & SUPPORT STUDENT ACCOUNTS Student Accounts From Director Weeks’s October 4, 2021 Memorandum As of October 1, 2021, any student who either lives in or is enrolled in any school in Travis County – including public, private, daycare, charter, and homeschool – is eligible for a free Student Card. Cards are valid for three years from date of issue/renewal. Student Accounts No physical cards, just account numbers Borrow 50 items Access all Digital Resources Checkout Hot Spots No fines for late materials Student Accounts exist alongside Youth Accounts 26% of APL Accounts are Student Accounts Account Number Format School District Acronym followed by Student ID Number Ex: AISD10123456 Tier 1 School Partners Number of Student Accounts 83,630 10,063 11,726 3,535 Tier 2 School Partners Number of Student Accounts 582 237 213 481 Student Account Hurdles Student (and staff) Mobility Incomplete and Inconsistent Student Data Files Low Account Usage/School Buy In Student Account Improvements Custom Report to Automate Account Creation Standardized and Limited Required Student Data Targeted Approach to School Outreach Educator Outreach & Support Group Library Cards Professional Development Sessions Direct connection for troubleshooting library issues Subject-specific flyers and communication Co-Sponsor Events at APL Stickers & Posters Educator Outreach & Support Educator & Student Resources BrainFuse HelpNow - Live, online tutoring and writing lab staffed by humans JSTOR and Gale - Research databases Transparent Language and Mango Languages - Language learning SkillMill - skilled trades training including HVAC, solar, plumbing, electrical Student Outreach & Support Instructional Videos Victory Tutoring Free printing Safe Spaces AVID Career Talks Level Up Campaign Level Up with APL Campus Visit Sign up 18yo Seniors for Adult Library Cards Ensures future library access Helps maintain account accuracy Caregiver Outreach & Support Parent Support Specialists Parent Meetings AISD Tools for Success District-Wide Events, Back to School Bash Future Goals Regularly Scheduled Account Updates Improve onboarding process for smaller schools Improved usage & engagement Thank you! Jenny Stirrat, MSIS School Partnerships Librarian jenny.stirrat@austintexas.gov lib.studentcards@austintexas.gov library.austintexas.gov | ADA accommodations: 512-974-7400
Approved Minutes — original pdf
Library Commission Meeting Minutes April 28, 2025 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, APRIL 28, 2025 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, April 28, 2025, at the John Henry Faulk Building in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Pamela Carlile Sara Gore Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Andrea Herrera Moreno Edward Selig Board Members/Commissioners Absent: Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair Magen Davis Kezia Frayjo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on March 31, 2025. Library Commission Meeting Minutes April 28, 2025 The minutes of the regular meeting held on March 31, 2025, were approved with amendments at the regular meeting of April 28, 2025, on a motion by Commissioner Herrera Moreno, seconded by Commissioner Selig. The motion passed on a 7–0 vote. Vice Chair Mehta and Commissioners Frayjo and Davis were absent. The approved amendments were as follows: • On page 1, under "Call to Order," the word Commissions was replaced with Commissioners on lines 2, 4, and 5. • On page 1, under "Approval of Minutes," line 3, the name Segil was corrected to Selig. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library School Partnerships by Jenny Stirrat, School Partnerships Librarian, Austin Public Library. The briefing was presented by Jenny Stirrat, School Partnerships Librarian, Austin Public Library. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. 3. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Nature Smart Libraries Initiative by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian, Austin Public Library. The briefing was presented by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian, Austin Public Library. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. 4. Staff briefing on the April APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The briefing was presented by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair of the Library Commission. A motion to elect Lynda Infante Huerta as Chair and Sheila Mehta as Vice Chair was approved on Commissioner …
Agenda — original pdf
REGULAR MEETING of the HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Monday, April 28, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. Austin City Hall, Room 1101 301 W. 2nd St AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Human Rights Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via 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 by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Ryan Sperling at ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov or 512-974-3568 CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Kolby Duhon, Chair (He/They) Muneeb “Meebs” Aslam (He/Him) Jeffrey Clemmons Harriett Kirsh Pozen Maryam Khawar Alicia Weigel (She/They) Gabriella Zeidan, Vice Chair Danielle Bryant Morgan Davis (He/Him) Mariana Krueger (She/Her) Tannya Oliva Martínez AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 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. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. 2. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on February 24, 2025. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on March 24, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of the 2025 Texas Legislative Session with regards to bills related to human rights. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Approve a recommendation on the FY2025-26 Budget for Supporting Supplies to Enhance Immigrant Student Protections and Rights. Approve a recommendation on the FY2025-26 Budget for Improving the Accuracy and Effectiveness of the Austin Point-In-Time (PIT) Count. Approve a recommendation to Allocate Municipal Funding for Grants that Benefit Inclusive Arts Programs Supporting Autistic and Neurodivergent Communities. Nominate a commissioner to serve as the Human Rights Commission’s primary representative to the Joint Inclusion Committee. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 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 at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please or contact Ryan Sperling, Office ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. the City Clerk 974-3568 …
2/24/2025 Draft Minutes — original pdf
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, February 24, 2025 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, February 24, 2025, at 301 W. 2nd St., Boards & Commissions Room, in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon (Chair) Gabriella Zeidan (Vice Chair) Danielle Bryant Jeffrey Clemmons Morgan Davis Harriett Kirsh Pozen Tannya Oliva Martinez Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Muneeb “Meebs” Aslam Mariana Krueger Srini Raghavan Alicia Weigel PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on January 27, 2025. The minutes were without objection on Chair Duhon’s motion on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Bryant, Krueger, Oliva Martinez, and Weigel were off the dais. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation regarding American Gateways’ work supporting the immigrant community in Austin. Presentation by Rebecca Lightsey, Co-Executive Director, American Gateways. 1 The presentation was made by Rebecca Lightsey, Co-Executive Director, American Gateways. 3. 4. 5. Presentation regarding understanding and recognizing modern antisemitism. Presentation by Abi Mallick, Jewish Voice for Peace. The presentation was made by Abi Mallick, Jewish Voice for Peace. Discussion on scheduling a potential presentation by Austin Police Department Chief Lisa Davis or other Austin Police Department staff. Discussion was held. Discussion on the 2025 Texas Legislative Session, with an overview of bills related to immigration and bail. Discussion was held. Update provided by Commissioner Clemmons. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. Approve the formation of a working group to provide budget recommendations for the FY26 budget cycle. The motion to form a working group to provide budget recommendations for the FY26 budget cycle was approved on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Commissioner Kirsh Pozen’s second on a 11-0 vote. Members will include Chair Duhon, and Commissioners Bryant, Clemmons, Oliva Martinez, and Zeidan. Approve a recommendation to protect immigrant communities and ensure access to accurate, accessible information and education in Austin schools and prioritize antidiscrimination efforts related to immigration status city wide. The recommendation was amended to insert “on the City of Austin website” after “city libraries” in paragraph 1 of the NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED section on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Clemmons’ second on an 11-0 vote. The recommendation was amended to strike paragraph 3 of the NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED section on Commissioner Bryant’s motion, Commissioner Clemmons’ second, on an 11-0 vote. The …
3/24/2025 Draft Minutes — original pdf
Human Rights Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, March 5, 2025 HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, March 24, 2025 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, March 24, 2025, at 301 W. 2nd St., Boards & Commissions Room, in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon, Chair Gabriella Zeidan, Vice Chair Jeffrey Clemmons Harriet Kirsh Pozen Mariana Krueger Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Muneeb “Meebs” Aslam Maryam Khawar Tannya Oliva Martinez PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on February 24, 2025. The approval of the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on February 24, 2025 was postponed until the April meeting on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Commissioner Clemmons’ second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Oliva Martinez was off the dais. Commissioners Bryant, Davis, and Weigel were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Briefing regarding Austin Police Department’s officer training, departmental enforcement of non-discrimination policies, community engagement efforts, protest responses, and the March 2 incident on 6th Street. Briefing by Lee Rogers, Patrol Assistant Chief; Michael 1 Human Rights Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, March 5, 2025 Chancellor, Downtown Area Command Commander; Fausto Rodriguez, Community Engagement Executive Lieutenant; and Michael Wilmore-Crumrine, Child Abuse Sergeant, Austin Police Department. Briefing by Lisa Davis, Chief of Police; Lee Rogers, Patrol Assistant Chief; Michael Chancellor, Downtown Area Command Commander; Fausto Rodriguez, Community Engagement Executive Lieutenant; and Michael Wilmore-Crumrine, Child Abuse Sergeant, Austin Police Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation regarding the status of gentrification in the Eastern Crescent of Austin. Presentation by Noé Elias and Alexia LeClerq, Community Powered ATX. Presentation by Celine Rendon, Noé Elias, and Alexia LeClerq, Community Powered ATX. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 3. Recommendations from the Budget Working Group regarding commission budget recommendations for the City of Austin 2025-26 Fiscal Year. Recommendations were provided by members of the Budget Working Group. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve a recommendation on the FY2025-26 Budget for Enhanced Climate Resilience in Austin. The recommendation was amended to strike “Establish 15” and insert “Ensure the continued funding, and expansion of, the neighbor resilience hub pilot program in the Eastern Crescent” on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Vice Chair Zeidan’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Bryant, Davis, and Weigel were absent. The recommendation was amended to strike “Tree Planting Program: Implement a comprehensive …
Item 4: Draft Recommendation — original pdf
Danielle & Gabriella Budget Proposal for Supporting Supplies to Enhance Immigrant Student Protections and Rights WHEREAS, Recent tragic events, such as the suicide of Jocelynn Rojo-Carranza, an 11-year- old girl who faced bullying due to her family’s immigration status, highlight the severe and devastating impacts of immigration-related discrimination and the lack of adequate protections within schools; WHEREAS, Reports from immigrant families in Austin indicate that increased raids and threats of deportation have created a climate of fear, deterring families from seeking assistance, accessing education, or reporting incidents of violence or harassment for fear of being separated; WHEREAS, Immigrants in Austin, including students, face systemic challenges, including bullying, harassment, and an overall lack of understanding about their rights and protections; WHEREAS, The City of Austin has a responsibility to ensure that all residents, irrespective of immigration status, have access to the resources and support they need to thrive and that our schools provide a safe environment where all children can learn without fear of discrimination or retaliation; WHEREAS, Inaccurate and inaccessible information about immigration laws and rights continues to be a barrier for many immigrants and their families, exacerbating their vulnerability, contributing to mistrust of local institutions, and threatening their constitutional due process rights. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Human Rights Commission of the City of Austin recommends that the City Council allocate $500,000 in funding to support supplies and materials necessary for the implementation of immigrant student protections, rights education, and family support services. This funding will ensure: 1. Printing and Distribution of Know Your Rights Materials - $150,000 a. Production of multilingual Know Your Rights guides tailored for students, families, and educators. b. Distribution of materials across all public schools, libraries, and community centers across the city in coordination with Austin ISD (including Red Know Your Rights cards and Texas Immigration Law Council From Scared to Prepared one- pagers). c. Development of digital and print resources for easy access through the City of Austin website and social media channels. 2. Development of Educational Toolkits for Schools - $120,000 a. Creation of classroom toolkits that include lesson plans, training materials, and engagement resources on immigration rights and protections in partnership with Austin ISD. b. Partnership with local organizations to provide instructional materials for educators to integrate immigration awareness into school curricula. c. Training sessions for school staff on responding to immigration-related concerns and ensuring a safe environment for all …
Item 5: Draft Recommendation — original pdf
Budget Proposal for Improving the Accuracy and Effectiveness of the Austin Point-In-Time (PIT) Count WHEREAS, The annual PIT Count is a critical tool for assessing the scale of homelessness in Austin and securing federal funding, yet it has long been criticized for undercounting due to methodological challenges, volunteer limitations, and the transitory nature of homelessness. WHEREAS, Unhoused individuals in non-sheltered locations—such as encampments, wooded areas, and vehicles—are often missed, leading to inaccurate data that impacts funding and resource distribution. WHEREAS, The COVID-19 pandemic, housing crisis, and economic instability have increased the number of people experiencing homelessness, making accurate data collection more essential than ever. WHEREAS, Community organizations, advocacy groups, and policy leaders have called for more precise, real-time data collection efforts to better understand the causes, demographics, and needs of Austin’s unhoused population. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Human Rights Commission of the City of Austin recommends the City Council allocate $750,000 in funding to improve the methodology, accuracy, and impact of the PIT Count through the following initiatives: 1. Enhanced Technology and Real-Time Data Collection – $250,000 a. Develop and deploy a mobile app for PIT Count volunteers to capture real-time data, geotag encampment locations, and ensure accuracy. b. Expand the use of AI and machine learning in collaboration with local universities and tech partners to predict trends in homelessness and improve counting methods. c. Fund heatmaps and GIS tools to better identify high-density areas and track displacement patterns throughout the year. 2. Expanded Volunteer Training and Outreach – $200,000 a. Provide stipends to train outreach teams and ensure PIT Count volunteers are well-prepared to engage with unhoused individuals. b. Expand collaboration with lived experience consultants (unhoused/formerly unhoused individuals) to refine data collection approaches and improve survey effectiveness. Increase partnerships with community-based organizations, such as Mobile Loaves & Fishes and ECHO Austin, to ensure better outreach and participation. c. 3. Incentives for Participation and Data Accuracy – $150,000 a. Implement a small compensation program (e.g., gift cards, meals, or basic supplies) for unhoused individuals who participate in the survey to encourage honest responses. b. Provide funding for follow-up surveys throughout the year, ensuring a more continuous and accurate count rather than a one-time snapshot. 4. Specialized Focus on Uncounted Populations – $150,000 a. Expand PIT Count efforts beyond traditional methods to capture harder-to-reach populations, such as: b. Individuals in informal housing situations (couch-surfing, motels, car-living, etc.). c. Youth …
Item 6: Draft Recommendation — original pdf
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommenda2on Number: (20250428-006): Recommenda2on to Allocate Municipal Funding for Gran ts that Benefit Inclusive Arts Programs Suppor2ng Au2s2c and Neurodivergent Communi2es WHEREAS, the City of Austin upholds a commitment to equity, inclusivity, and cultural enrichment for all residents, including neurodivergent individuals and youth on the autism spectrum; and WHEREAS, inclusive arts programs provide essential spaces for personal growth, social development, and creative expression for neurodivergent individuals, particularly youth who often face barriers to participation in traditional educational and extracurricular settings; and WHEREAS, organizations currently doing this work include past City of Austin cultural funding recipient American Artists Project, whose Variations program offers choir-based musical engagement specifically for youth on the autism spectrum, creating a safe, supportive space for developing social and artistic skills; and WHEREAS, nonprofits providing inclusive programming for neurodivergent individuals are increasingly underfunded, and many are experiencing significant cuts in federal and state support due to shifting political priorities and reduced allocations to the arts, education, and disability services sectors; and WHEREAS, the national political climate has become increasingly hostile toward neurodivergent individuals, with public rhetoric from influential figures reinforcing damaging stereotypes and promoting exclusion, undermining the rights and dignity of autistic people; and WHEREAS, local governments—including the City of Austin—have a responsibility to counter these trends by affirmatively investing in inclusive, community-building programs that celebrate diversity, encourage belonging, and promote the well-being of all residents; and WHEREAS, while the City of Austin currently funds cultural arts through programs like Thrive, Elevate, and Nexus, there is a need for targeted and accessible opportunities specifically supporting arts programs that center neurodivergent and autistic individuals; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Human Rights Commission of the City of Austin recommends that the City Council allocate new or expanded funding up to $75,000 to support inclusive arts and cultural programming that serves neurodivergent and autistic youth; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council establish open calls for grants and contracts to support nonprofits and community-based organizations that provide accessible, identity-affirming, and culturally relevant arts programming for neurodivergent populations; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council consider adjustments or additions to existing Cultural Arts Funding Programs to include dedicated resources or scoring criteria for programs centering youth on the autism spectrum and related communities; BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the City of Austin reaffirm its leadership in fostering a compassionate, inclusive city by supporting …
Play audio — original link
Play audio
Recommendation 20250428-004: Budget Proposal for Supporting Supplies to Enhance Immigrant Student Protections and Rights — original pdf
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: 20250428-004: Budget Proposal for Supporting Supplies to Enhance Immigrant Student Protections and Rights Motioned by: Vice Chair Zeidan Seconded by: Commissioner Aslam WHEREAS, Recent tragic events, such as the suicide of Jocelynn Rojo-Carranza, an 11-year- old girl who faced bullying due to her family’s immigration status, highlight the severe and devastating impacts of immigration-related discrimination and the lack of adequate protections within schools; WHEREAS, Reports from immigrant families in Austin indicate that increased raids and threats of deportation have created a climate of fear, deterring families from seeking assistance, accessing education, or reporting incidents of violence or harassment for fear of being separated; WHEREAS, Immigrants in Austin, including students, face systemic challenges, including bullying, harassment, and an overall lack of understanding about their rights and protections; WHEREAS, The City of Austin has a responsibility to ensure that all residents, irrespective of immigration status, have access to the resources and support they need to thrive and that our schools provide a safe environment where all children can learn without fear of discrimination or retaliation; WHEREAS, Inaccurate and inaccessible information about immigration laws and rights continues to be a barrier for many immigrants and their families, exacerbating their vulnerability, contributing to mistrust of local institutions, and threatening their constitutional due process rights. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Human Rights Commission of the City of Austin recommends that the City Council allocate $250,000 in funding to support supplies, materials, and grants necessary for the implementation of immigrant student protections, rights education, and family support services. This funding will ensure: 1. Printing and Distribution of Know Your Rights Materials a. Production of multilingual Know Your Rights guides tailored for students, families, and educators. b. Distribution of materials across all public schools, libraries, and community centers across the city in coordination with Austin ISD, not exclusive to ISDs. (including Red Know Your Rights cards and Texas Immigration Law Council From Scared to Prepared one-pagers). c. Development of digital and print resources for easy access through the City of Austin website and social media channels. 2. Development of Educational Toolkits for Schools a. Creation of classroom toolkits that include lesson plans, training materials, and engagement resources on immigration rights and protections in partnership with Austin ISD. b. Partnership with local organizations to provide instructional materials for educators to integrate immigration awareness into school curricula. c. Training sessions for …