From: To: Subject: Date: Historic Preservation Office 4901 Ridge Oak Dr Tuesday, March 4, 2025 5:04:40 PM [You don't often get email from https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] . Learn why this is important at External Email - Exercise Caution I understand there is consideration for historic zoning for 4901 Ridge Oak Dr. As someone who lives in this neighborhood, I would oppose such zoning. This house is aesthetically ugly and does not add any historic value to the neighborhood. I understand it was at one time owned by a descendant of Commodore Perry, however we are all grandchildren of someone, that does not make us the historically important. I would urge the city to allow this structure to be replaced with a modern, safe house or - even better - two houses as we could use the increased density. Sincerely, Ben Pasmore 5109 Lucas Lane Austin, TX 78731 CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov".
From: To: Subject: Date: Historic Preservation Office 4901 Ridge Oak Dr. Wednesday, March 5, 2025 9:23:52 AM [You don't often get email from https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] Learn why this is important at External Email - Exercise Caution Good Morning, I would like to let you know that there are many of us in our neighborhood that would like for 4901 Ridge Oak to have an historic zoning status. I have lived in this neighborhood for almost 20 years and walk my dog daily. This house and property are amazing. I love the trees, the bluebonnets that signal to the neighborhood that it is spring and that the midcentury look of the home. It would be heartbreaking to see a modern home at this site. Thank you, Shelly Russell 5013 Westview Austin, Tx 78731 CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov".
From: To: Subject: Date: Historic Preservation Office Supporting Historic Designation for 4901 Ridge Oak Dr Wednesday, March 5, 2025 12:29:38 PM You don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Good afternoon, I am in support of the historic designation of 4902 Ridge Oak Drive. It is my understanding that the house was … Designed by Austin architect Barton Riley, the house at 4901 Ridge Oak Drive was constructed around 1951 for Edgar Perry III, grandson of Edgar Howard “Commodore” Perry. My family & I have lived at 5013 Westview Dr, Austin TX 78731 for the past 18+ years. Destruction of the home at 4901 Ridge Oak would also fundamentally change the character of the neighborhood - especially at an extremely prominent and visible location. I appreciate your consideration of my concern and position. Dave David Knoll CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov".
Fiscal Year 2025 - 2026 Budget Recommendation Academia Cuauhtli seeks support for its FY 2025-2026 budget recommendation aimed at serving predominantly indigenous, Hispanic, Spanish-speaking youth in Austin. We are requesting on-going funding for culturally and linguistically diverse programs with an annual allocation of $105,930.00. Below is a concise outline of our minimal operating costs derived from the fiscal year 2023-2024, along with a proposal for additional funds to initiate our programmatic expansion. Detailed program descriptions, budgets, and material costs can be found on the following pages. Minimal Operational Costs ❖ Academia Cuauhtli (Eagle Academy) - Saturday Arts Program $37,750 ❖ Parent Support Program ❖ Bilingual Summer Program/ La Colaborativa Cuauhtli ❖ Teacher Conference Fund ❖ Teacher Professional Development Total Fund Request Amount $105,930 $13,300 $43,380 $10,000 $1,500 $105,930 Fiscal Year 2025 - 2026 Budget Recommendation Our Minimal Necessary Operating Costs ensure the seamless continuation of our programs by covering essential expenses, including operational costs and staffing. This foundational support sustains the quality and impact of our initiatives. The detailed budget breakdown encompasses four key components: Saturday Academy, Parent Support Program, Bilingual Summer Camp, and Teacher Professional Development funds, each playing a vital role in serving our community and fulfilling our mission. Minimum Necessary Operational Costs (106K) Saturday Academy (37.8K): A bilingual and cultural revitalization program offers instruction in Mexican American Studies and STEM curriculum for third to fifth grade students attending AISD. We focus on creating alternative learning spaces with focuses on social emotional learning and culturally responsive education. The program runs throughout the school year, spanning 20 weeks and serving approximately 50 youth participants. Program Costs: (37.8K) ● Staff (26.2K) ○ (13.2K) - 3 Activity Specialists for Saturday school ■ $4,400 - $22p/hr, 10 hours per week , 20 weeks ■ $13,200 total per school year ○ (2.2K) - Professional Instructor I - Danza Teacher ■ ~$2,170 - $31 p/hr, 10 hours per week, 7 weeks ○ (7K) - Fall Program Support Specialist ■ $7,020 total per fall semester: 27 p/hr, 20 hrs per week, 13 weeks total ○ (3.8K) - Spring Program Support Specialist ■ $3,780 total per fall semester: 27 p/hr, 20 hrs per week, 7 weeks total ● Food (8K) ○ (5K) - Breakfast Tacos/Prepared Foods ○ (3K) - Store bought breakfast items, sack lunches, snacks, etc. ● Materials: (1.7K) - art supplies, danza supplies, graduation items ○ (1K) - Art supplies ○ ($500) - Danza …
Bilingual cultural revitalization program for third to fifth grade students attending AISD. Vision A future where children live with a thinking heart and the courage to pursue their aspirations within liberating and sacred learning spaces. Mission Honor our community’s cultural heritage Foster a social justice consciousness Reclaim our collective identities in pursuit of educational freedom The Purpose Despite a predominantly Indigenous, Hispanic, and Spanish-speaking youth population in Texas, the lack of culturally relevant education limits self-expression, academic success, and a sense of belonging. Initiatives Throughout the years Nuestro Grupo has established various partnerships and initiatives within the community with key focuses on students, teachers, parents, and community members. Academia Cuauhtli Parent Support Program STEM/Aztech Kidz Code Teacher Development Academia Cuauhtli The Bilingual Cultural Revitalization Saturday Academy offers ethnic studies and Danza Mexica instruction to AISD third- to fifth-graders at no cost, including breakfast and transportation. In 2023, ~60 students were hosted from six Title 1 AISD schools, including: Sanchez, Perez, Houston, Travis Heights, Harris, and Hart Elementary schools. Program Costs (38K) The program runs throughout the school year, spanning 20 weeks and serving an average of 50 youth participants. Projected costs for 2025-2026 fiscal year: Staff (26.2K) Food (8K) Materials (1.7K) Field Trips (1K) Custodian (1K) Family Support (13.3K) The Parent Support Program engages families during the Saturday Academy, providing community resources tailored to their needs and guest speakers, such as the Mexican Consulate. Parent Support Specialist (10.8K) Guest Speakers (2K) Materials ($500) Summer Program (44K) A culturally sustaining STEAM program for third to fifth grade AISD students to learn coding and Danza Mexica in both Spanish and English. Science, Tech, Engineering, Art, Math (STEAM) Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Culturally Relevant Curriculum Experiential Learning (Field Trips) Program Costs (44K) Last summer, we offered three two-week sessions, serving a total of 65 Austin youth participants. Projected costs for 2025-2026 fiscal year: Staff (32.8K) Field Trips (1.5K) Materials (7K) Custodial Staff (4.5K) Food (4.5K) Teacher PD (11.5K) Preparation and mentorship for teachers through support networks, professional development workshops, conferences, and La Colaborativa Cuauhtli, which sends teachers to Mexico annually. Attend Conferences (10K) Professional Development Workshops (1.5K) Budget FY25-26 (106K) Teacher PD 11500 Saturday Academy 37750 Bilingual Summer Camp 43380 Parent Support Program 13300 Support the Vision Help us secure ongoing funding from Austin City Council members to support the academic and cultural growth, sense of identity, and belonging of indigenous, Hispanic, Spanish-speaking …
COMMISSION FOR WOMEN RECOMMENDATION 20250305-004 Seconded By: Commissioner Scheihing 2025-26 Budget Recommendation Date: March 5, 2025 Subject: Motioned By: Chair Tau Recommendation The City of Austin Commission for Women urges City Council to prioritize funding for previously identified unmet needs as well as enhancements that particularly impact women and girls in Austin. Description of Recommendation to Council In particular, the commission recommends funding for: ● The Collective Sex Crimes Response Model - with a focus on ensuring its formal completion and closure and a seamless transition to a future governance body such as the Sexual Assault Response and Resource Team (SARRT) ● Menstrual equity supplies in public libraries ● The Family Stabilization Grant Program ● The Workforce and Childcare Division ● After-school programming geared toward building positive mental health in girls in Title 1 schools Rationale: As support for the unique needs of disadvantaged populations is attacked at the federal level, it is incumbent upon the City of Austin to make every effort to protect the safety and well-being of its disadvantaged residents. Our commission is particularly concerned with Austin’s women and girls, especially those with intersecting marginalized identities. We hope that if pending threats to cut Medicaid and Social Security indeed manifest under the current presidential administration that the City will maintain some flexibility in its budget to address urgent needs that may arise in order to proactively protect our vulnerable populations. Vote: Approved on an 8-0 vote. For: Chair Tau, Vice Chair Bullard, Commissioners Bissereth, Glasser, Harris, Melendez, Scheihing and Veloz-Salas. Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Commissioners Austen and Rattan Attest: Christi Vitela Commission for Women staff liaison [Staff or board member can sign]
Travis County and the City of Austin 2023 Broadband and Digital Equity Needs Assessment 4.5 Access inside and outside the home 4.5.1 Computers to thrive and mobile to survive 4.5.2 Location based access outside the home 5.1.3 Increase availability, accessibility, and awareness of free public- access internet options 5.1.4 Support mobile connectivity 5.4.1 Support people’s ownership of their own data as a default 5.4.2 Provide the public with information on anti-spam laws 5.1.5 Advocate for the accessibilty of services, programs, and mobile information online, especially on 5.4.3 Support the decision-making autonomy of tenants when it comes to their decisions about internet and technology Contents 1 Introduction 2 Background 3 Approach 4 Findings 4.1 Who is and is not connected 4.6 Technology support 4.1.1 Populations that face higher digital barriers 4.7 Consumer protection concerns 4.1.2 By geography 4.1.3 By race/ethnicity 4.1.4 By income 4.2 The cost of connecting 4.3 Lack of digital skills 4.3.1 Digital skills and breaks in economic or educational participation 4.3.2 Differences in self-reported digital skills 4.7.1 Spams, scams, and data privacy and ownership 4.7.2 Unfair or confusing marketing practices 4.7.3 Planned obsolescence and lack of affordable repair options 4.7.4 Internet options in multi-tenant environments (MTEs) 4.8 Need for accessibility features 4.9 Issues of trust 5 Recommendations 4.3.3 Who is interested in digital skills training 4.3.4 What digital skills topics do people want to know Internet service availability, quality, and 4.4 reliability 5.1 How might we support all populations in accessing affordable, reliable, high- speed internet? 5.1.1 Provide targeted support to populations that have higher digital barriers 4.4.1 Causes for disruption 4.4.2 Who is impacted by disruption 4.4.3 What is impacted by disruption 5.1.2 Identify and support strategies to make sure all consumers know what low-cost internet options are available and how to compare and sign up for plans 5.2 How might we promote and maintain the community’s access to quality, low- cost devices? 6 How to get engaged 5.2.1 Identify, support, and promote sources of low-cost devices 5.2.2 Increase the availability, awareness, and affordability of options to have devices reparied or receive technology support 5.2.3 Support the ability of consumers to repair their own devices 7 Thank you 8 About this report 9 Appendix 9.1 Methods 5.3 How might we improve the community’s access to free digital skills training and development opportunities 5.3.1 Teach community members what they want to know 5.3.2 Provide digital skills training in …
BEAD & NTIA Update Technology Commission Economic Development Department (EDD) March 5, 2025 Khotan Harmon BEAD – (Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment) • BEAD (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment) Program is a $42.45 Billion Dollars in Broadband funding to all 50 states to help expand high-speed internet access and use (focused mainly on infrastructure buildout). • • Texas was allocated $3.3 billion (most of any state) to to support infrastructure deployment, mapping and adoption, including planning and capacity-building. Texas residents voted in 2023 for an additional $1.5 Billion for broadband expansion in Texas. Texas has: $4.8 billion! • Austin/Travis – affordability is the biggest barrier to connectivity, not infrastructure • White House circulated a memo on January 27, 2025 "directing agencies to pause all federal grant disbursements pending reviews of their ideological alignment with the Trump administration, causing confusion in the industry over the fate of BEAD and other programs." https://broadbandbreakfast.com/lutnick-receptive-to-gop-critiques-of-bead-declines-to-commit- to-approved-spending/ • March 5, 2025 – Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick – “rigorous review” of BEAD and ”tech-neutral” approach. https://www.route-fifty.com/digital-government/2025/03/commerce-secretary-announces-rigorous-review-bead- program/403494/?oref=rf-home-top-story • Additionally - Sen Ted Cruz issued statement that there would be big changes ahead for BEAD: https://www.commerce.senate.gov/2024/11/sen-cruz-warns-biden-harris-ntia-big-changes-ahead-for-multi-billion- dollar-broadband-boondoggle C I T Y O F A U S T I N NTIA – DIGITAL EQUITY COMPETITIVE GRANT NTIA (National Telecommunications and Information Administration) had scheduled two rounds of funding for the Digital Equity Competitive Grant, they ended up making recommendations for more than $369 million to 41 organizations nationally. According to the NTIA "This funding comes from the $1.25 billion Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program, one of three Digital Equity Act grant programs created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law." The list of their recommendations for funding for the competitive grant was shared on the NTIA website on 1/17/2025: https://www.ntia.gov/other-publication/2025/digital-equity-competitive-grant-program-applications- recommended-award Austin supported the application of a Central Texas partners for $12 million dollars with $$$ match. No status update from NTIA at this time. C I T Y O F A U S T I N C I T Y O F A U S T I N
Digital Equity Needs Assessment Topline Insights Project Purpose Travis County and the City of Austin conducted a study to better understand the needs, barriers, and assets available for digital access prioritizing low-income communities, communities of color, and other communities that have been historically and systemically marginalized. This involved: 1) a needs assessment to collect, analyze, and share data about community members’ access to affordable and reliable digital connectivity and resources that enable digital access (e.g. skills, devices), as well as 2) co-design and evaluate possible strategies and recommendations to increase internet connectivity and access for all What is digital equity? Internet Access Digital Devices Digital Skills Laws Electric grid Population growth Topography Technology change Global economy Percentage of Travis County Households without Internet Subscriptions Source: U.S. Census Bureau’s 2018 - 2022 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates, Table B28004 Project Key Activities PHASE I JANUARY - APRIL PHASE II PHASE III MAY - AUGUST SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2025 Survey and Advisory Community Circles Data Convenings Report 1382 Survey Responses 19 7 Organizations in Non-Profit Working Group Community Share Outs and Solutioning Activities 44 Participants in 3 Advisory Workshops 193 Participants in 11 Community Conversation Circles Data Collection and Resource Sharing Design & Administration Top Challenges & Opportunities Circles: Top Challenges What kinds of things make it more difficult for you to get access to or use the internet? • Cost/Affordability • Digital Skills • Internet Service Problems • Accessibility • Device Issues • Security and Safety Concerns • Language Barriers • Public access – Transportation – Paywalls (e.g. purchase • Barriers to Internet Service (e.g. documentation, credit history) for password) – Awareness of resources Survey: Top Recommendations Do you have any ideas of how Travis County and the City of Austin can help our communities improve internet access? (n=351) (*Themes of open-ended responses) 95 31 43 44 31 31 19 13 18 24 2 Survey: Barriers to Get Internet at Home What is a barrier for you to get internet at home? (Check all that apply.) Respondents without internet at home: n=211 Source: Travis County and City of Austin In-Person Survey conducted February 7, 2023 to April 28, 2023 Circles: Solutions If money or resources where not a problem, how would you improve the community's access to internet and technology? • • • • Improve and Increase Digital Skills Support and Training Increase Access or Availability of Free or Discounted …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION TECHNOLOGY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION NUMBER: 20250305-006: REGARDING: Recommendation for Maintaining Funding for the Grant for Technology Opportunities Program (GTOPs) in the FY26 Budget WHEREAS, digital inclusion remains a critical issue for the residents of Austin, impacting access to essential services, economic opportunities, and educational resources; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has demonstrated its commitment to digital equity through continued investment in initiatives that support underserved communities; and WHEREAS, the Grant for Technology Opportunities Program (GTOPs) has a proven track record of funding impactful community programs that provide digital literacy training, access to devices, and broadband connectivity to Austin residents; and WHEREAS, maintaining the GTOPs budget at $400,000 will ensure the program’s continued impact, enabling more organizations to bridge the digital divide and support the City’s strategic goals on digital equity; and WHEREAS, community organizations rely on GTOPs funding to expand digital inclusion programs, ensuring that residents have access to the technology and skills necessary to participate fully in an increasingly digital world; and WHEREAS, continued investment in GTOPs aligns with the City of Austin’s strategic objectives related to digital equity, workforce development, and economic opportunity; and WHEREAS, the GTOPs program offers multiple funding pathways to ensure a comprehensive approach to addressing digital inclusion challenges, including Core Funding, Mini Funding, and Capacity Funding; and WHEREAS, Core Funding supports large-scale initiatives aimed at significantly advancing digital inclusion efforts within the community; and WHEREAS, Mini Funding serves as a vital resource for smaller-scale projects and initiatives seeking to make meaningful contributions to digital inclusion efforts in Austin; and WHEREAS, Capacity Funding provides essential support to grassroots organizations and initiatives, enabling them to build capacity and expand their reach in addressing digital inclusion disparities within underserved communities; and WHEREAS, the demand for digital inclusion funding continues to grow, with community organizations reporting an ongoing need for financial resources to support programs that enhance digital access and literacy; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Technology Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate $400,000 in the FY26 Budget to the Grant for Technology Opportunities Program (GTOPs) to further advance digital inclusion efforts citywide. Date of Approval: March 5th, 2025 Record of the vote: Motion to approve made by Commissioner Combee and seconded by Commissioner Rice. The recommendation was approved on a vote of 6-0. Attest: _____________________________________________ Dan Martinez Community Technology Division Economic Development Department / City of Austin
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION TECHNOLOGY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION NUMBER: 20250305-007: REGARDING: Recommendation for Funding an Affordable Device Distribution & Repair Program in the FY26 Budget WHEREAS, access to affordable, functioning digital devices is essential for participation in education, employment, healthcare, and government services; and WHEREAS, the Travis County - City of Austin Broadband and Digital Equity Needs Assessment found that lower-income households, older adults, and individuals with disabilities face significant barriers to obtaining and maintaining digital devices; and WHEREAS, planned obsolescence, high repair costs, and lack of affordable device options disproportionately affect underserved communities; and WHEREAS, expanding access to low-cost or refurbished devices and repair services would enable more Austin residents to participate fully in the digital economy; and WHEREAS, creating a dedicated Hardware Fund would allow for targeted grants supporting device distribution and repair programs through partnerships with local nonprofits, libraries, and community organizations; and WHEREAS, this would result in a reduction of e-waste; and WHEREAS, a public-private partnership could be used to drive total funding; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Technology Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate a minimum funding amount of $25,000 to the FY26 Budget to establish a Hardware Fund, ensuring that all residents have access to affordable devices and repair services, thereby closing the digital divide in Austin. Date of Approval: March 5th, 2025 Record of the vote: Motion to approve made by Commissioner Heritage and seconded by Commissioner Alderete. The recommendation was approved on a vote of 6-0. Attest: _____________________________________________ Dan Martinez Community Technology Division Economic Development Department / City of Austin
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION TECHNOLOGY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION NUMBER: 20250305-008: REGARDING: Recommendation for expanding public internet access in the FY26 budget WHEREAS, reliable internet access is essential for education, employment, healthcare, and civic engagement; and WHEREAS, the Travis County - City of Austin Broadband and Digital Equity Needs Assessment found that many residents rely on public Wi-Fi to access essential services but face inconsistent availability; and WHEREAS, expanding free public internet access at libraries, parks, transit hubs, and community centers would increase digital inclusion for residents without reliable home connectivity; and WHEREAS, investment in public Wi-Fi infrastructure would particularly benefit lower-income residents, unhoused individuals, ADA applicable community members, and communities with limited broadband options; and WHEREAS, extending public Wi-Fi service hours and coverage areas would enhance accessibility for those who rely on it for job applications, remote learning, and telehealth services; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Technology Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate funding and exploration in partnership with EDD to expand and enhance public internet access across the city, ensuring equitable digital access for all residents in the following ways: - - - - Public internet access points with after-hour and weekend hours of operation Public computer labs should be equipped with robust features, like webcams and private spaces for private communications (like telehealth visits) and device charging stations Emergency response locations should have resilient internet/phone connectivity and charging stations. Expansion of public internet access points should be aligned according to digital divide index and other related data sources Date of Approval: __March 5th, 2025______________________ Record of the vote: Motion to approve made by Commissioner Combee and seconded by Commissioner Anga. The recommendation was approved on a vote of 6-0. Attest: _____________________________________________ Dan Martinez Community Technology Division Economic Development Department / City of Austin
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION TECHNOLOGY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION NUMBER: 20250305-009: REGARDING: Recommendation for Increased Funding for Digital Skills Training in the FY26 Budget WHEREAS, digital skills are increasingly necessary for full participation in the workforce, education, healthcare, and civic engagement; and WHEREAS, the Travis County - City of Austin Broadband and Digital Equity Needs Assessment found that lower-income residents, older adults, justice-impacted individuals, and non-native English speakers face significant barriers to digital literacy; and WHEREAS, survey data indicate that 59% of respondents would be interested in free digital skills training for themselves or a household member, with interest particularly high among individuals without home internet access; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has an opportunity to expand digital literacy programs through partnerships with libraries, schools, community organizations, and workforce development centers; and WHEREAS, the demand for digital literacy training continues to grow, and increased investment will ensure residents have access to relevant skills training in multiple formats, including in-person, online, and hybrid learning; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Technology Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate additional funding in the amount of $450,000 in the FY26 Budget for expanding digital skills training programs, and device distributions, ensuring free and accessible training opportunities for Austin residents who face the greatest barriers to digital literacy. Date of Approval: March 5th, 2025 Record of the vote: Motion to approve made by Commissioner Anga and seconded by Commissioner Combee. The recommendation was approved on a vote of 6-0. Attest: _____________________________________________ Dan Martinez Community Technology Division Economic Development Department / City of Austin
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION TECHNOLOGY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION NUMBER: 20250305-010: REGARDING: Recommendation for Continued Funding for AI Upskilling for City of Austin Employees in the FY26 Budget WHEREAS, artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries, including government operations, and enhancing efficiencies in data analysis, decision-making, and service delivery; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has already made initial investments in AI training and upskilling programs to ensure that its workforce is equipped with the necessary knowledge and tools to leverage AI-based technologies effectively; and WHEREAS, the previous requested budget amendment during FY2025 of $75,000 for AI training, technical assistance, and continuing education has provided City employees with critical skills in data science, design, and AI applications; and WHEREAS, demand for AI-related education and resources continues to grow among City employees, highlighting the need for sustained investment in training programs; and WHEREAS, the expansion of initiatives such as the DIVE (Data Impact Visualization and Exploration) program would further support the City’s commitment to fostering technological innovation and digital proficiency among its workforce; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Technology Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate continued funding in the amount of $75,000 in the FY26 Budget to sustain and expand AI upskilling initiatives for City of Austin employees, as well as in the area of digital literacy and practice, ensuring they remain proficient in emerging technologies that enhance public service delivery. Date of Approval: March 5th, 2025 Record of the vote: Motion to approve made by Commissioner Anga and seconded by Commissioner Heritage. The recommendation was approved on a vote of 6-0. Attest: _____________________________________________ Dan Martinez Community Technology Division Economic Development Department / City of Austin
EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER ADVISORY BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20250305-6 Date: March 5, 2025 Subject: FY2026 Budget Recommendation – Funding for Academia Cuauhtli Motioned By: Board Member Anthony Martinez Recommendation The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Advisory Board (MACC) recommends the City Council direct the City Manager to take the following actions and to allocate funds for the following item for FY 2026. 1. Support funding for Academia Cuauhtli’s FY26 operating expenses in the amount of $106,000. Seconded By: Board Member John Estrada Rationale: Academia Cuauhtli: Academia Cuauhtli is a bilingual cultural revitalization program for third to fifth grade students attending AISD schools. Its mission is to honor cultural heritage, foster social justice, and reclaim collective identities in pursuit of educational freedom. For the past 10 years they have focused on establishing various partnership and initiatives within the community with key focuses on students, teachers, parents, and community members. The bilingual cultural revitalization Saturday Academy offers ethnic studies and Danza Mexica instruction to AISD third- to fifth-graders at no cost, including breakfast and transportation. The parent support program engages families during the Saturday Academy, providing community resources tailored to their needs. The Summer program consist of a culturally sustaining STEAM program for third to fifth grade AISD students to learn coding and Danza Mexica in both Spanish and English. The teacher professional development opportunities prepare and mentor teachers through support networks, professional development workshops and conferences. The MACC Advisory Board supports the ongoing funding request of Academia Cuauhtli in the amount of $106,000 to support the academic and cultural growth, sense of identity, and belonging of indigenous, Hispanic, Spanish-speaking youth in Austin. 1 of 2 Vote For: Vice Chair Lily Zamarripa-Saenz, Member Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Member Anthony Martinez, Member Noemi Castro, Member Raul “Roy” Reyna, Member John Estrada, Member Cynthia “Cy” Herrera Against: Abstain: Absent: Chair Angelica Navarro, Member Mónica Siañez, Member Gerardo Gandy Attest: ___________________________ Michelle Rojas, Staff Liaison 2 of 2
EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER ADVISORY BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20250305-6 Date: March 5, 2025 Subject: FY2026 Budget Recommendation – MACC Phase 2 funding. Motioned By: Board Member Herrera Recommendation The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Advisory Board (MACC) recommends the City Council direct the City Manager to allocate funds to complete the MACC Phase 2 construction and renovation project for FY 2026. Description of Recommendation to Council 1. Allocate funding for items that were removed from the MACC’s Phase 2 project to complete it as presented to the community for a total amount between $2.2 and $2.4 in the FY26 budget. Seconded By: Board Member Estrada Rationale: Phase 2 Operating Budget In 2018 a comprehensive community engagement was completed as part of the Facility Expansion Plan which included community members and Austin City Council members. The Austin City Council unanimously voted to adopt the 2018 Facility Expansion Plan on May 24, 2018, with the intent to complete all remaining phases without preconditions on funding sources. The 2018 Bond Committee recommended, and Austin City Council approved $27 million to be included under Proposition B for the ESB-MACC Phase 2 project. 74 percent of voters in the 2018 election voted in favor of Proposition B. The Joint Venture team of Miro Rivera Architects (Austin) and Estudio Tatiana Bilbao (Mexico City) was selected to lead the Phase 2 design in part because of their experience designing world-class facilities. Due to the rising costs in construction and inflation, items had to be value engineered out of the project to stay within budget. The project team has been diligently working on completing the project slated for completion in the Fall of 2025. The Mexican American Cultural Center Advisory Board recommends to the Austin City Council to allocate the necessary amount needed to complete the items as were presented during community engagement to fulfill the commitment by the City of Austin to complete a Phase 2 expansion and renovation that is commensurate with a world-class cultural center that continues to reflect the strength and resiliency of Austin’s Mexican American community. 1 of 2 Vote For: Vice Chair Lily Zamarripa-Saenz, Member Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Member Anthony Martinez, Member Noemi Castro, Member Raul “Roy” Reyna, Member John Estrada, Member Cynthia “Cy” Herrera Against: Abstain: Absent: Chair Angelica Navarro, Member Mónica Siañez, Member Gerardo Gandy Attest: Michelle Rojas, Staff Liaison 2 of 2
