Joint City Council and Planning Commission Meeting Tuesday, April 1, 2025 The City Council Special Called Meeting will convene at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 at Austin City Hall, 301 W. Second Street, Austin, TX and some members may be attending via videoconference For meeting information, contact the City Clerk, (512) 974-2210 City Council Special Called Meeting COUNCIL AGENDA April 1, 2025 Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely. For full instructions on participation in person or by telephone, please visit the Council Meeting Information Center: http://austintexas.gov/department/city-council/council/council_meeting_info_center.ht m The City Council may go into a closed session as permitted by the Texas Open Meetings Act, (Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code) regarding any item on this agenda. 2:00 PM – City Council Convenes 2:00 PM - Planning Commission Convenes Public Hearings and Possible Actions 1. Conduct a joint public hearing to receive public comments on proposed amendments to City Code Title 25 (Land Development) that would increase the maximum square footage limits of two new housing units when the property owner preserves the existing housing unit. Funding: This item has no fiscal impact. Adjourn The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please call 512-974-2210 or TTY users route through 711. A person may request a Spanish language interpreter be made available by contacting the Office of the City Clerk not later than twenty-four hours before the scheduled time of the item on which the person wishes to speak. Please call (512) 974-2210 in advance or inform the City Clerk’s staff present at the council meeting. Cualquier persona puede solicitar servicios de intérprete en español comunicándose con la oficina del Secretario/a Municipal a no más tardar de veinte y cuatro horas antes de la hora determinada para el asunto sobre el cual la persona desea comentar. Por favor llame al (512) 974-2210 con anticipo o informe al personal del Secretario/a Municipal presente en la sesión del Consejo.
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 ORDINANCE NO. _________________ AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CITY CODE SECTION 25-2-773 RELATED TO FLOOR-TO-AREA RATIO AND MAXIMUM SQUARE FOOTAGE WHEN CONSTRUCTING TWO NEW DWELLING UNITS AND PRESERVING AN EXISTING DWELLING UNIT. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: PART 1. Subsection (E) of City Code Section 25-2-773 (Duplex, Two-Unit, and Three-Unit Residential Uses) is amended to read: § 25-2-773 DUPLEX, TWO-UNIT, AND THREE-UNIT RESIDENTIAL USES. (E) This subsection applies to the area established in Subsection 1.2.1 of Chapter 25- 2, Subchapter F (Residential Design and Compatibility Standards). (1) In this subsection, (a) EXISTING DWELLING UNIT means a dwelling unit that is: (i) (ii) legally permitted and occupied before December 7, 2023; or described in an application for a residential permit that was submitted on or before December 7, 2023. (b) GROSS FLOOR AREA means the total enclosed area of all floors in a building with a clear height of more than six feet, measured to the outside surface of the exterior walls, except as provided in this subsection. (2) Gross Floor Area Exclusions. (a) (b) For a property that includes an existing dwelling unit that was constructed on or before December 31, 1960, the property owner may exclude the preserved square footage from the gross floor area if the requirements in Subsection (F) are met. For a property that includes an existing dwelling unit that was constructed on or after January 1, 1961, and is at least 20 years old, the property owner may exclude the preserved square footage from the gross floor area if the requirements in Subsection (F) are met. Draft 3/20/2025 Page 1 of 2 COA Law Department City of Austin Council Meeting Backup: April 1, 2025File ID: 25-0533 31 32 33 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 (a) (b) (a) (b) (3) Floor-to-area ratio for a duplex or two-unit residential use. The maximum floor-to-area ratio for the site is the greater of 0.55 or 3,200 square feet. Except for an existing dwelling unit, a dwelling unit may not exceed the greater of 0.4 or 2,300 square feet. (4) Floor-to-area ratio for three-unit …
City of Austin Recommendation for Action File #: 25-0533, Agenda Item #: 1. 4/1/2025(cid:4) Posting Language Conduct a joint public hearing to receive public comments on proposed amendments to City Code Title 25 (Land Development) that would increase the maximum square footage limits of two new housing units when the property owner preserves the existing housing unit. Funding: This item has no fiscal impact. Lead Department Development Services Department. Fiscal Note This item has no fiscal impact. Prior Council Action: July 18, 2024 - City Council approved Resolution No. 20240718-090 related to preserving existing housing and initiating amendments to City Code Title 25 (Land Development). Specifically, the City modified the preservation bonus available when constructing two new housing units while preserving an existing housing unit. Council Member Vela's motion seconded by Council Member Qadri was carried on a 9-2 vote. Those voting aye were: Mayor Watson, Mayor Pro Tem Pool, Council Members Ryan Alter, Ellis, Fuentes, Harper- Madison, Qadri, Vela, and Velasquez. Those voting nay were: Council Members Alison Alter and Kelly. For More Information: Keith Mars, Assistant Director, Development Services, 512-466-4598, Keith.Mars@austintexas.gov. Additional Backup Information: In HOME I, Council capped the maximum amount of floor to area ratio (FAR) allowed on sites with two units at the greater of 0.55 or 3,200 square feet and sites with three units at the greater of 0.65 or 4,350 square feet. The goal of the cap was to encourage smaller, more accessible housing. HOME 1 also included a preservation bonus that excludes the FAR of the existing housing unit. Subsequently, Council determined that the preservation bonus as originally adopted could encourage demolition instead of preservation since a property owner can only reach the full space incentive when the owner builds an addition onto the existing unit and two new units. As a result, Council directed the City Manager to bring a code amendment that would allow the two new dwelling units to reach a FAR of 0.65 if the existing unit is preserved. City of Austin Page 1 of 1 Printed on 3/27/2025 powered by Legistar™ (cid:5) (cid:6)
Preservation Bonus Ordinance Revision 1 Outline • Background • Proposal • Timeline 2 Background • December 2023 Council approved Home Phase 1 allowing for: - Construction of up to three residential units. - Exclude existing home from floor-to-area (FAR) calculations in exchange for preserving existing home. - Two new units limited to .55 FAR or 3,200 square feet. • July 2024 Council adopted Resolution 20240718-090 to: - Revise the two new unit limit to .65 FAR or 4,350 square feet to incentivize preservation of smaller residential units. - Revise Preservation Bonus Program. 3 Proposal and Impact Proposal • Revise Land Development Code 25-2-773(4) (ii) to state two dwelling units may not exceed the greater of .65 FAR of 4,350 square feet if an existing residential unit is preserved. • Proposal does not increase allowable impervious cover. Impact • Incentivize preservation of smaller homes such that full FAR allowances can be achieved for the property. 4 Timeline • January 2025 City-wide notice sent in conjunction with Short-Term Rental regulations. • April 1 Joint Hearing of City Council and Planning Commission. • April 8 Planning Commission. • April 24 City Council conduct public hearing and adopt ordinance. 5 For Further Information: Keith Mars, Assistant Director Development Services 512-466-4598 or keith.mars@austintexas.gov 6
REGULAR MEETING OF THE HIV PLANNING COUNCIL CARE STRATEGIES AND ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE TUESDAY, APRIL 1, 2025, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER ROOM 1203 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the HIV PLANNING COUNCIL may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: Click here to join the meeting Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone or Teams. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register to speak, call or email the Office of Support, (737)-825-1684 or hivplanningcouncil@austintexas.gov CURRENT HIV PLANNING COUNCIL CARE STRATEGIES AND ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Zachery Garay, Committee Chair, conflicted Joe Anderson Jr., conflicted Alicia Alston Aran Belani Marquis Goodwin, conflicted AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up no later than noon on 3/31/2025 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 HIV Planning Council regular meeting of the Care Strategies and Community Engagement committee on February 4, 2025 CONFLICT OF INTEREST DECLARATIONS 2. Members will declare conflict of interest with relevant agenda items, service categories, and/or service standards. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Introductions/Announcements 4. Office of Support Staff Briefing DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and approval Town Hall Logistics DISCUSSION ITEMS 6. Discussion of Integrated Plan Updates 7. Discuss of directives, potential directives, and directive funding 8. Discussion of workplan calendar and social calendar FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT Indicative of action items 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. TTY users’ route through Relay Texas at 711. For More Information on the HIV Planning Council, please contact Rashana Raggs at (737)-825-1684.
1. African American Resource Advisory Commission REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, March 4, 2025 The African American Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at the African American Cultural & Heritage Facility in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Eugene called the African American Resources Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 5:56 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Dr. Chiquita Eugene, Vice Chair Roger Davis Nelson Linder Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Daryl Horton, Chair Elaina Fowler Joi Harden Kyron Hayes Mueni Rudd Greg Smith PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL List name of speaker(s) and brief description of topic. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the African American Resource Advisory Commission Regular Meeting on February 4th, 2025. The minutes were approved on Commissioner Smith’s motion, Commissioner Davis’ second, on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Jackson and Ross were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Briefing on the Facility Expansion Plan Phase 1 for the George Washington Carver Museum. Presentation by Marjorie Flanagan, Division Manager, Museums & Cultural Programs, Parks & Recreation Department. 1 Briefing by Adrienne O’Keefe, Community Engagement Specialist; Tony Hron, Associate Project Manager; and Marjorie Flanagan, Division Manager, Parks and Recreation Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS Presentation regarding updates to the Carver Center funding and the work done by the A3 Art Alliance Austin to support the Carver Center’s Artist Residency Program. Presentation by Laura Esparza, Executive Director, A3 Art Alliance Austin. Presentation by Laura Esparza, Executive Director, A3 Art Alliance Austin. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Approve recommendations to council regarding the FY 25-26 budget as it relates to the African American Resource Advisory Commission. The recommendation was amended to strike $6,000,000 and replace it with $11,000,000 on Commissioner Smith’s motion, Commissioner Rudd’s second, on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Jackson and Ross were absent. The recommendation was approved on Commissioner Smith’s motion, Commissioner Linder’s second, on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Jackson and Ross were absent. 3. 4. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Juneteenth celebration Presentation from Toby Futrell, former City Manager Vice Chair adjourned the meeting at 7:46 p.m. without objection. 2
REGULAR MEETING of the African American Resource Advisory Commission Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at 5:30 P.M. African American Cultural and Heritage Facility 912 E 11th St. Creativity Studio Austin, Texas 78702 Some members of the African American Resource Advisory 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, 512- 874-3568, ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Daryl Horton, Chair Alexandria Anderson Sophia Dozier Kyron Hayes Nelson Linder Antonio Ross Greg Smith CALL TO ORDER Dr. Chiquita Eugene, Vice Chair Roger Davis Joi Harden Anthony Jackson Justin Parsons Mueni Rudd AGENDA 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. Approve the minutes of the African American Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on March 4, 2024. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Briefing regarding the Housing and Urban Development Action Plan and how grants may impact the commission’s interests in FY2025-26. Briefing by Rocio Pena-Martinez, Grants Program Manager, and Julie Smith, Community Engagement Specialist, Housing Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS Presentation regarding American Gateways’ work supporting the immigrant community in Austin. Presentation by Rebecca Lightsey, Co-Executive Director, American Gateways. Presentation by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) regarding the ADL’s work locally in combatting antisemitism, hate and extremism. Presentation by Courtney Toretto, Director of Policy for the Central Division, and Kazique Prince, Board Member, ADL. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair. Nominate Commissioners to serve as the African American Resource Advisory Commission’s primary and alternate representatives to the Joint Inclusion Committee. 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 Ryan Sperling, Office of the City Clerk at …
Discussion on community needs and spending priorities for the FY 25-26 Action Plan for federal grants. Agenda Federal Grants Overview FY23-24 Goals, Outcomes & Impact Community Engagement Background Continuing the dialouge: FY25-26 Priorities The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) allocates entitlement funding to municipalities and state governments. The City of Austin applies for approximately $14 million in annual grant entitlements across four grants for affordable housing, community development, economic development, and public services. These grants are part of a 5-year cycle. Consolidated Plan (5-Year) Allocates federal resources to housing and community development Action Plan (1-Year) Summarizes actions, activities and federal/non- federal resources in the Consolidated Plan Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) (1-Year) End-of-year report on progress toward consolidated plan 3 HUD Funding Sources 4 Programs & Activities Overview FY 23-24 5 Goals & Outcomes FY 23-24 6 Who Did We Serve? Fiscal Year 22-23 Snapshot 1,856 # households served FY 23-24 Source: City of Austin FY 23-24 CAPER Who Did We Serve? Fiscal Year 22-23 Snapshot 1,856 # households served FY 23-24 Source: City of Austin FY 23-24 CAPER Who Did We Serve? Fiscal Year 22-23 Snapshot 2024 Median Income for family of 4: $126,000 Source: City of Austin FY 23-24 CAPER How do we fund our programs? HUD Annual Entitlement Grants Housing Trust Fund Approved City Bonds City Operating Budget Project Connect Anti-Displacement Funds 2024 Community Needs Assessment Feedback immediate help stability trust building wealth access 11 2024 Community Needs Assessment Feedback from Boards & Commissions African American Resource Advisory Council Transparency & Accountability What is the total funding for housing programs? What has changed since you came to us last? How are you holding partners accountable? Outreach and Engagement How are you reaching our community? Data and Impact How great is the need? How are you serving our community? Funding Possibilities Programs and projects specific to each community Disappointment and Distrust More questions than input Calls for accountability The commissioners expressed interest in knowing more about the zip codes and other demographics of those served by federal funding, and staff agreed to bring more data back to the commission for future meetings. 2024 Community Needs Assessment Feedback Data and Impact Transparency Outreach to vulnerable communities Progress and Commitments New policy and data team in Housing Department New Housing Hub on Speak Up Austin, with impact of feedback as core component (launching in early …
African American Resource Advisory Commission REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Tuesday April 1st, 2025 The African American Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, April 1st, 2025 at the city of Austin Permitting and Development Center in Austin, Texas. Chair Horton called the African American Resources Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Daryl Horton, Chair Dr. Chiquita Eugene, Vice Chair Alexandria Anderson Roger Davis Sophia Dozier Nelson Linder Justin Parsons Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Kyron Hayes Mueni Rudd PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the African American Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on March 4, 2024. The minutes were approved on Commissioner Davis’ motion, Commissioner Linder’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Harden, Jackson, Ross, and Smith were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 1 2. Briefing regarding the Housing and Urban Development Action Plan and how grants may impact the commission’s interests in FY2025-26. Briefing by Rocio Pena-Martinez, Grants Program Manager, and Julie Smith, Community Engagement Specialist, Housing Department. Briefing by Rocio Pena-Martinez, Grants Program Manager, and Julie Smith, Community Engagement Specialist, Housing Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. Presentation regarding American Gateways’ work supporting the immigrant community in Austin. Presentation by Rebecca Lightsey, Co-Executive Director, American Gateways. Withdrawn without objection. Presentation by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) regarding the ADL’s work locally in combatting antisemitism, hate and extremism. Presentation by Courtney Toretto, Director of Policy for the Central Division, and Kazique Prince, Board Member, ADL. Presentation by Courtney Toretto, Director of Policy for the Central Division, and Kazique Prince, Board Member, ADL. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. 6. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair. Daryl Horton was elected as Chair on Vice Chair Eugene’s motion, Commissioner Davis’ second, on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Harden, Jackson, Ross, and Smith were absent. Dr. Chiquita Eugene was elected as Vice Chair on Chair Linder’s motion, Commissioner Rudd’s second, on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Harden, Jackson, Ross, and Smith were absent. to serve as the African American Resource Advisory Nominate Commissioners Commission’s primary and alternate representatives to the Joint Inclusion Committee. Justin Parsons and Alexandria Anderson were nominated as the primary and alternate representatives to the Joint Inclusion Committee on Vice Chair Eugene’s motion, Commissioner Hayes’ second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Linder was off the dais. Commissioners Harden, Jackson, Ross, and Smith were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Commissioner Anderson …
REGULAR MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION March 31, 2025 – 6 P.M. Menchaca Branch Library 5500 Menchaca Road 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 BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Pamela Carlile Kezia Frayjo Melissah Hasdorff Cristina Masters Mark Smith AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Magen Davis Suchitra Gururaj Andrea Herrera Moreno 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 December 16, 2024. 2. 3. 6. 7. STAFF BRIEFINGS 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. Staff briefing on APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION 4. Discussion of library-related bills in the current legislative session. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 5. Report from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group regarding advocacy and engagement to support the Austin Public Library DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and approval of the report and recommendations from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group regarding advocacy and engagement to support the Austin Public Library. Discussion and approval of a recommendation supporting additional funding to support Austin Public Library's service enhancements, including a 6% increase to the books and materials budget, 2 FTE social worker positions, menstrual equity supplies, enhanced law enforcement presence and one-time funds for site analysis and feasibility studies 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 …
Strategic Advocacy Working Group Report Background The Library Commissioners expressed a desire to be better equipped to advocate for issues of importance to the Austin Public Library (APL) with their Council Members and other City of Austin Boards and Commissions during important City Council meetings and efforts such as the budgeting and bond approval process. A special Strategic Advocacy Working Group was asked to research and identify the Commission's next steps. This document, structured as a guide, results from this working group's research. Working Group Scope The Library Commissioners seek ways to better advocate for APL and strategically connect with City Council members and other Commissioners to support the library's financial and collaborative efforts. List of Resources to Commissioners General ● Boards and Commissions ○ Website, https://www.austintexas.gov/department/boards-and-commissions/boards ○ Boards and Commissions Information Center, https://www.austintexas.gov/department/boards-and-commissions-information-center ○ Workbook, https://www.austintexas.gov/department/workbooks ○ Contact: stephanie.hall@austintexas.gov ● City Council ○ City Information Center, https://www.austintexas.gov/department/city-council/council/council_meeting_info_center .htm ○ General guidelines on public hearings and communications with City Council (Ordinance No. 20240926-112) ○ Participate in a City Council Meeting https://www.austintexas.gov/services/participate-city-council-meeting ○ How to Register to Speak (bilingual), https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=437389 ● Budget Process ○ 2025-26: https://publicinput.com/budget25-26 ○ FY 2024-25 Unmet Needs Report, https://www.austintexas.gov/sites/default/files/files/Finance/Financial%20Transparency/P roposed%20Budget/FY25%20Unmet%20Needs%20Report.pdf ● Speak Up Austin: online home for community engagement, https://publicinput.com/Hub/Index/1178#events ● 2026 Bond Election ○ 2026 Bond Election Advisory Task Force, https://www.austintexas.gov/content/2026-bond-election-advisory-task-force ○ 2026 Bond Program Update Memo, https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/pio/document.cfm?id=443881 1 ○ Article on Community Impact, https://communityimpact.com/austin/south-central-austin/government/2025/01/13/austin-l ooks-to-2026-for-next-major-bond-vote-more-than-1b-in-approved-debt-unspent/ ○ Specific to Library Commissioners ● Library Commission Website, https://www.austintexas.gov/content/library-commission ● Library Commission Bylaws, https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=387465 ● Austin Public Library Comprehensive Library Strategic and Facilities Plan, https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=404379 Important Dates for Library Commission Commissions & Boards Annual Budget 2026 Bond Cycle October 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting Public input sessions (pending presentation from APL Team) November ● 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting ● Intercommission Social (informal gathering) December 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting Public input sessions January 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting February 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting March 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting April 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting Community Budget Conversations Community Budget Conversations ● Community Budget Conversations ● Budget Survey ● Community Budget Conversations ● Budget Survey 2 May June July 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting Budget Survey 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting City Council Community (District) Meetings 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting ● City Council Community (District) Meetings ● City Manager's Proposed Budget Released August 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting September 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting Recommendations The …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes December 16, 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 16 DECEMBER 2024 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, December 16, 2024, at the Austin Central Library, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair, Sheila Mehta, Vice- Chair, Melissah Hasdorff, , Mark Smith, Magen Davis, Andrea Herrera Moreno Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: Christina Masters Commission Members Absent: Steve DeRosa, Kezia Frayjo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the November 18, 2024, regular meeting. The minutes from the regular meeting on November 18, 2024, were approved on a motion by Commissioner Herrera Moreno, seconded by Commissioner Smith, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner DeRosa and Frayjo absent. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. Library Commission Meeting Minutes DISCUSSION ITEMS December 16, 2024 2. Presentation by Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation, regarding The Library Foundation programs and services. The presentation was made by Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. 3. Presentation by Charles Peveto, President, Austin History Center Association, regarding Austin History Center Association programs and services. The presentation was made by Charles Peveto, President, Austin History Center Association. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. 4. Discussion of the December APL Report covering public programming highlights, and facilities updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The report was presented by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 5. Update from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group. Commissioner Herrera Moreno provided an update. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS School Partnerships Library Legislative Advocacy in February ADJOURNMENT Chair Infante Huerta adjourned the meeting at 7:03 p.m. without objection.
LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250331-7 Date: 03/31/2025 Recommendation Subject: Support for Austin Public Library FY26 Budget Motioned By: Commissioner Davis Seconded By: Commissioner Selig Support for Austin Public Library's proposed budget for FY2026 with additional funding to support Austin Public Library's service enhancements, including an increase to the books and materials budget, social worker positions, menstrual equity supplies, enhanced law enforcement presence, and one-time funds for site analysis and feasibility studies Description of Recommendation to Council Requesting the Austin City Council approve the proposed Austin Public Library budget for FY2026. Additionally, increased funding is asked for an increase of 6% to the books and materials budget, the addition of two FTE social worker positions, funds to continue the law enforcement partnership with Travis County, ongoing funding to provide menstrual equity supplies, and $1.5 million for feasibility studies of new and expanded facilities. Rationale In FY 2023, the Austin Public Library completed a year-long strategic planning process to shape the work of the library for years to come. Input was provided for the plan through a community survey that received more than 5,400 responses, pop-up community events in 20 locations throughout Austin, as well as a series of surveys, workshops, and listening sessions with APL staff and external community stakeholders. The Austin Public Library Comprehensive Library Strategic and Facilities Plan, adopted by the City Council in March 2023, lays out new strategic goals for the Austin Public Library, aligned with the City of Austin’s Imagine Austin 30-year strategic plan and the SD28 5-year strategic plan. To implement this City Council-approved Strategic Plan, Austin Public Library needs one-time funding of $1.5 million for feasibility studies for new and expanded facilities to meet the infrastructure objectives contained in the strategic planning process completed in 2023. The proposed Austin Public Library budget includes a 3% increase for materials, which include digital materials, subscriptions, and databases. Austin’s population growth and the increased cost of all materials, especially e-books, which represent a fast-growing share of APL’s circulation and require expensive licenses, have put a strain on the materials budget. These proposed increases are necessary to keep up with inflation, but do not represent a growth budget and may lead to a reduction of e-resources and increased patron wait times to access materials. An additional 3% increase for a total of 6% to the books and materials budget would help close the gap to prevent the library from …
Austin Public Library 2026 Bond Proposal Updated Presentation, March 2025 library.austintexas.gov Agenda • Our Story: Values, History, and Previous Bonds • Current and Future Library Needs • Technical Criteria JB0 Our Core Values Who We Serve – We Welcome Everyone What we Provide – We safeguard access to information resources and spaces. How We Do It – We provide excellence in service and build trust through integrity, accountability, and teamwork History: A Century of Service 1926 – First Austin Public Library established by Grace Delano Clark. Opens with 500 donated volumes in rented space. 1928 Bond – First Permanent buildings - $150,000 1933 – First permanent Central Library building opens at 401 W. 9th St. (current Austin History Center Building). First branch opens – George Washington Carver Branch. 1934 – First APL Summer Reading Program 1933-1951 – Austin Public Library services and facilities racially segregated. 1951 – First Austin Public Library Bookmobile launches 1956-1968 – 12 new branches and locations added 1972 Bond – New Central Library (current John Henry Faulk building) and 4 new branches - $6 M 1979 – New Central Library opens 1980–1992 – Multiple branches open or are relocated/expanded JB0 History, continued: 1992 Bond - New branches and renovations - $8M 1998 Bond - Expansion, renovations, and tech improvements - $13M 2004 – Daniel Ruiz Branch grand opening; most recent all-new branch 2006 Bond – Funding approved for a new central library – $125 M 2010 – New Twin Oaks Library opens; most recent branch building 2012 Bond - Library Facility improvements - $13.4 M 2017 – New Austin Central Library opens at 710 W Cesar Chavez St. 2018 Bond – Library Infrastructure Improvements - $34.5 M 2023 – City Council Approves APL Strategic & Facilities Plan 2018 Bond, Proposition B – Libraries, Museums and Cultural Centers $128,000,000 for community and cultural facilities, libraries, museums, and cultural and creative arts facilities, and land acquisitions. Department Allocations Library Proposition B Site/Civil Projects History Center & Archival Repository Complex Interior Renovation Projects Roof Replacement & System Upgrades $34.5M $1.8M $16.5M $8.1M $8.1M Economic Development Libraries PARD Total Voter-Approved $27,000,000 $34,500,000 $66,5000,000 $128,000,000 2018 Bond EDD Parks Library 2018 Bond Project Overview The 2018 Library Bond Program is $34.5M. Proposition B provided funding for: • Rehabilitation and renovations to multiple branch libraries. • The first phase of the conversion of Faulk Library for the Austin History Center Campus. APL …
1 APL Public Programming Highlights & Facilities Updates Hannah Terrell, Interim Director March 2025 TABLE OF CONTENTS Highlights ……………………………………………………………….…………………………………….……………….1 Facilities Updates ……………………………………………………………………..……………………………………4 APL Data & Numbers ..…………………………………………………………………………………………………….5 HIGHLIGHTS APL Celebrates Black History Month Austin Public Library was proud to celebrate Black History Month with a variety of engaging programming and community connection. The Cepeda Branch Library hosted a special collage storytelling workshop with Women & Their Work artist Moria Small. Attendees brought personal items of significance and combined them with materials provided to create meaningful collages. Using a camera, they captured their finished pieces and had the opportunity to print them as keepsakes. This hands-on experience allowed patrons to showcase their stories in a creative and personal way, making for a unique and engaging library program. Ruiz Branch hosted a program celebrating Sam Gilliam and his Drape series of art. To emulate that style, participants tried their hand at tie dye! There were kids, tweens, teens, and adults participating- truly an all-ages experience. Southeast Branch Library hosted youth participants for Crafternoon: All Ages Black History Month Edition, featuring crafts inspired by artists Augusta Savage and Jacob Lawrence. Participants enjoyed exploring clay and collage, as well as learning about the lives of these incredible black artists. APL Hosts NASA!! SXSW went to infinity and beyond March 8th and 9th by bringing Nasa House to APL with a free, no- badge-required event welcoming local families and SXSW attendees alike. Visitors explored 40 hands-on exhibits, interactive demonstrations, and immersive installations over two days and across four floors of the Central Library. Talks and screenings ran throughout both days, featuring NASA scientists, engineers, and communicators discussing the latest in space exploration and innovation. Partner additions included a Snoopy appearance, space-themed Crayola coloring sheets and materials, a LEGO Education free-build area, and Google Arts & Culture programming. We were excited to see a large turnout from bilingual and multi-generational families, kids dressed in astronaut costumes, and wide engagement from the Austin media and influencer community. Overall, nearly 23,000 people joined the fun! First Austin Poet Laureate Announced Austin Public Library has selected local poet and theater artist Zell Miller III as the City’s first ever Poet Laureate. The Austin Poet Laureate Program was established by the Austin City Council last year to be administered by Austin Public Library. The goals of the program include promoting poetry, literacy, and the literary arts in the Austin community; …
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. Commissioners in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair, Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair, Magen Davis, Edward Selig, Pamela Carlile, Kezia Frayjo Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Mark Smith, Sara Gore Commissioners 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 Selig 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 …
Robert Mueller Municipal Airport Plan Implementation Advisory Commission Community Interest Announcement The Mueller Team will host a ceremonial opening of the Roger Lavon Taylor, Sr. Plaza. Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 10:00 AM. 3925 Berkman Drive, Austin, TX 78723 A quorum of Commission members may be present. No action will be taken, and no Commission business will occur. Jill Fagan 512-974-7829
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS MARCH 29th AT 9:30 A.M. CITY OF AUSTIN PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER ROOMS #1401 & 1402 6310 WILHELMINA DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 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 Gunjen Mittal, 512- 972-6104, gunjen.mittal@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Melissa Ortega, Chair Miriam Dorantes, Vice Chair Adrian De La Rosa Aditi Joshi Bob Libal Jeanne “Canan” Kaba Meghna Roy Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Shweta Padmanabha Azeem Edwin Yohana Saucedo The first 10 speakers signed up 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. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Office. 1. Approve FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to develop a City of Austin Immigrant Affairs 2. Approve FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to Expand the Equity Mini Grant Funds to $600,000 in support of Immigrant Inclusion, Solidarity with Unhoused People, and Anti- displacement Prevention Efforts. 3. Approve the FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to Maintain and Expand the Annual Contracts into a Five-Year Term for Austin Public Health Immigrant Legal Services. 4. Approve FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to Expand Equity and Inclusion Trainings. 5. Approve the FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to Support Supplies for Strengthening Protections and Rights of Immigrant Students. 6. Approve the FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to Allocate Funding for Printing and Distributing "Know Your Rights" Red Cards at Austin Public Library Locations. 7. Approve the FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to Increase Funding for The Family Stabilization Grant Program to $3 Million and Maintain its Funding as Part of the City’s Base Budget. 8. Approve the budget recommendation for reallocation of the Quality of Life Study funds for the FY 2025-26. 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. TTY users route …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032901: Development of the Immigrant Affairs Office WHEREAS, the City of Austin values inclusivity and recognizes the immense economic, social, and cultural contributions that people of all national origins and immigration statuses have made to this country1; and WHEREAS, the City Council declared Austin a Welcoming City through Resolution No. 20140320-049 to demonstrate that the City strives to include and support immigrants in all aspects of our city; and WHEREAS, we continue to hear appreciation for the creation of the Immigrant Affairs position, along with recognition that the scope of work required is too vast for one person to manage alone; and WHEREAS, the development of an Immigrant Affairs Office would ensure that the needs of Austin's immigrant community are recognized, supported, and effectively addressed, which would allow for stronger community engagement, more responsive services, as well as better coordination across city departments to close existing gaps; and WHEREAS, a comprehensive budget plan focused on expanding staff, services, and infrastructures will promote the immigrant community’s economic mobility, human services (health care/food/legal services), education, and civic participation; and WHEREAS, ensuring immigrant inclusivity will build stronger educated communities that can contribute to economic growth, creative potential, and innovation throughout Austin and its society; and WHEREAS, in Austin, more than 18% of the population are foreign-born2; and WHEREAS, Austin’s immigrant population comes from over 120 different countries3; and WHEREAS, according to City data at iSpeak Austin, more than 85 languages are spoken throughout the City, 31% of Austinites speak a language other than English at home and 11.4% of Austinites speak English “less than very well”4; and WHEREAS, According to “Advancing Immigrant Incorporation in Austin, TX,” a report on the state of immigrant affairs at the City states that Austin has made consistent improvements and has scored highly in areas such as Government Leadership, Community Collaboration, and Legal Support; the same report also highlights areas where the City falls short in achieving a “Government That Works for All,” identifying key gaps in Civic Participation, Livability, and Job Opportunities5; and WHEREAS, research indicates that immigrant integration policies lead to favorable outcomes for both native and foreign-born residents of a city5; and 1 CITY OF AUSTIN 2025 Federal Legislative Agenda 119th Congress 2 https://www.census.gov 3 Austin Population Change and Demographic Trends 4 iSpeak Austin | AustinTexas.gov 5 Advancing Immigrant Incorporation in Austin, TX Report WHEREAS, the report …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032902: Expand the Equity Mini Grant Funds to $600,000 in support of Immigrant Inclusion, Solidarity with Unhoused People, and for Anti-displacement Prevention Efforts WHEREAS, the City of Austin’s Equity Office provides leadership, guidance, and insight on equity to improve the quality of life for all Austinites by working across City departments and with major institutions, non-profits, and grassroots organizations to advance racial equity; and WHEREAS, the inaugural Equity Mini Grant Fund was established in 2018 in response to Ordinance 20170913-001, which directed the Equity Office, to develop a funding framework for quality-of-life initiatives by allocating $75,000 to the Equity Mini Grant Fund; and WHEREAS, the Equity Office successfully implemented a more approachable and accessible granting framework, awarding the first round of grants in April 2018, and has since expanded its grant programs, including the Reentry Services Grant, which supports organizations transforming outcomes for formerly incarcerated individuals through The Hub Award ($200,000 for 501(c)(3) non-profits providing wrap- around services) and The Spoke Award ($50,000 for direct service providers); and WHEREAS, additional funding opportunities, such as the Reimagining Public Safety Grants and potential future grants focused on immigrant and refugee support, underscore the City’s commitment to addressing systemic inequities through community-driven solutions; and WHEREAS, the Equity Mini Grant Fund has played a critical role in supporting grassroots and volunteer- led efforts addressing significant challenges, including COVID-19 recovery, public safety, homelessness response, and immigrant inclusion, demonstrating its value as a flexible and responsive funding mechanism; and WHEREAS, the FY25 Equity Mini Grant Fund prioritizes support for grassroots efforts organizing community-centered solutions in the areas of immigrant inclusion, solidarity with unhoused people, and anti-displacement/displacement prevention, recognizing these as urgent and critical equity issues in Austin; and WHEREAS, since the inception in 2018, the Equity Mini Grant Fund has supported 87 organizations with a total of $1,495,000 in funding, growing from an initial $75,000 in total grants to $450,000 in FY24-25; however despite this growth, the fund remains insufficient to fully address the scale and scope of community needs; increasing the fund to $600,000 would enable great investment in grassroots initiatives working to address systemic inequities; and WHEREAS, an expansion of the Equity Mini Grant Fund would provide additional unrestricted funding at various award levels ($10,000, $20,000, and $30,000), enabling a broader and deeper investment in community-driven initiatives that address disparities and uplift historically marginalized communities; THEREFORE, …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032907: Family Stabilization Program as a Mechanism for Promoting Housing Stability WHEREAS, affordability continues to be one of the most common issues expressed by residents. The Family Stabilization Program offers more flexible access to housing support, accords more choice and dignity, reduces discrimination, and offers more efficient and cost-effective housing; and WHEREAS, at the Community Voices & Choices: Joint Inclusion Committee FY26 Budget Input Sessions, several residents expressed support again for the ongoing funding of this program; and WHEREAS, according to findings from the Urban Institute’s report titled Evaluation of the Austin Guaranteed Income Pilot, it can be very difficult for cities like Austin to meet their residents’ needs through subsidized house programs, as federal housing programs have limited reach and limited funding; and WHEREAS, even Austin residents that are lucky enough to receive federal housing assistance continue to struggle with housing issues, and about 40% of households nationally that receive a voucher never successfully lease a unit; and WHEREAS, in Austin, most voucher holders were only able to move to less desirable housing on the outskirts of the city, which may cause additional burdens like poor transportation options, limited access to healthy foods, limited access to medical care, and employment and caregiving challenges. WHEREAS, other forms of housing assistance provide specific housing units; however, this comes with its own problems. Residents have limited options, if any. Buildings are only required to keep their rents affordable for a certain period of time, and then they can increase rent, these units are set up to be affordable based on the area median income (AMI), and they do not provide the deep affordability that residents need; and WHEREAS, according to the report, Austin’s local affordable housing inventory lists six times the number of units with rents set to be affordable at 80 percent of AMI as units with rents set to be affordable at 30 percent of AMI, Additionally, these units offer set rental prices, and the person is still responsible for paying the full rent even if they experience job insecurity; and WHEREAS, according to findings from the Urban Institute’s report titled Evaluation of the Austin Guaranteed Income Pilot, participants reported spending, on average, more than 50% of their pilot cash to cover housing costs, and the average share participants spent on housing was more than twice as much spending in any other …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032901: Development of the Immigrant Affairs Office WHEREAS, the City of Austin values inclusivity and recognizes the immense economic, social, and cultural contributions that people of all national origins and immigration statuses have made to this country1; and WHEREAS, the City Council declared Austin a Welcoming City through Resolution No. 20140320-049 to demonstrate that the City strives to include and support immigrants in all aspects of our city; and WHEREAS, we continue to hear appreciation for the creation of the Immigrant Affairs position, along with recognition that the scope of work required is too vast for one person to manage alone; and WHEREAS, the development of an Immigrant Affairs Office would ensure that the needs of Austin's immigrant community are recognized, supported, and effectively addressed, which would allow for stronger community engagement, more responsive services, as well as better coordination across city departments to close existing gaps; and WHEREAS, a comprehensive budget plan focused on expanding staff, services, and infrastructures will promote the immigrant community’s economic mobility, human services (health care/food/legal services), education, and civic participation; and WHEREAS, ensuring immigrant inclusivity will build stronger educated communities that can contribute to economic growth, creative potential, and innovation throughout Austin and its society; and WHEREAS, in Austin, more than 18% of the population are foreign-born2; and WHEREAS, Austin’s immigrant population comes from over 120 different countries3; and WHEREAS, according to City data at iSpeak Austin, more than 85 languages are spoken throughout the City, 31% of Austinites speak a language other than English at home and 11.4% of Austinites speak English “less than very well”4; and WHEREAS, According to “Advancing Immigrant Incorporation in Austin, TX,” a report on the state of immigrant affairs at the City states that Austin has made consistent improvements and has scored highly in areas such as Government Leadership, Community Collaboration, and Legal Support; the same report also highlights areas where the City falls short in achieving a “Government That Works for All,” identifying key gaps in Civic Participation, Livability, and Job Opportunities5; and WHEREAS, research indicates that immigrant integration policies lead to favorable outcomes for both native and foreign-born residents of a city5; and 1 CITY OF AUSTIN 2025 Federal Legislative Agenda 119th Congress 2 https://www.census.gov 3 Austin Population Change and Demographic Trends 4 iSpeak Austin | AustinTexas.gov 5 Advancing Immigrant Incorporation in Austin, TX Report WHEREAS, the report …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032902: Expand the Equity Mini Grant Funds to $600,000 in support of Immigrant Inclusion, Solidarity with Unhoused People, and for Anti-displacement Prevention Efforts WHEREAS, the City of Austin’s Equity Office provides leadership, guidance, and insight on equity to improve the quality of life for all Austinites by working across City departments and with major institutions, non-profits, and grassroots organizations to advance racial equity; and WHEREAS, the inaugural Equity Mini Grant Fund was established in 2018 in response to Ordinance 20170913-001, which directed the Equity Office, to develop a funding framework for quality-of-life initiatives by allocating $75,000 to the Equity Mini Grant Fund; and WHEREAS, the Equity Office successfully implemented a more approachable and accessible granting framework, awarding the first round of grants in April 2018, and has since expanded its grant programs, including the Reentry Services Grant, which supports organizations transforming outcomes for formerly incarcerated individuals through The Hub Award ($200,000 for 501(c)(3) non-profits providing wrap- around services) and The Spoke Award ($50,000 for direct service providers); and WHEREAS, additional funding opportunities, such as the Reimagining Public Safety Grants and potential future grants focused on immigrant and refugee support, underscore the City’s commitment to addressing systemic inequities through community-driven solutions; and WHEREAS, the Equity Mini Grant Fund has played a critical role in supporting grassroots and volunteer- led efforts addressing significant challenges, including COVID-19 recovery, public safety, homelessness response, and immigrant inclusion, demonstrating its value as a flexible and responsive funding mechanism; and WHEREAS, the FY25 Equity Mini Grant Fund prioritizes support for grassroots efforts organizing community-centered solutions in the areas of immigrant inclusion, solidarity with unhoused people, and anti-displacement/displacement prevention, recognizing these as urgent and critical equity issues in Austin; and WHEREAS, since the inception in 2018, the Equity Mini Grant Fund has supported 87 organizations with a total of $1,495,000 in funding, growing from an initial $75,000 in total grants to $450,000 in FY24-25; however despite this growth, the fund remains insufficient to fully address the scale and scope of community needs; increasing the fund to $600,000 would enable great investment in grassroots initiatives working to address systemic inequities; and WHEREAS, an expansion of the Equity Mini Grant Fund would provide additional unrestricted funding at various award levels ($10,000, $20,000, and $30,000), enabling a broader and deeper investment in community-driven initiatives that address disparities and uplift historically marginalized communities; THEREFORE, …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032904: Budget Expand Equity and Inclusion Trainings. WHEREAS, the City of Austin continues to see an increase in reported hate crimes and hate incidents year to year since 2021; and WHEREAS, city initiatives around anti-hate currently are housed in a variety of different offices and departments, and WHEREAS, the We All Belong Campaign is housed in the Corporate Public Information Office, the Safe Place program is housed in the Austin Police Department, and Undoing Racism trainings are housed in the Office of Equity & Inclusion1; and WHEREAS, while each program has varying degrees of public engagement and participation, city staff and public citizens would benefit from expanded access and visibility about these services; and WHEREAS, some community members may not feel comfortable reporting acts of hate to the City of Austin or local law enforcement 2; and WHEREAS, the Equity Division advances its mission by hosting Undoing Racism in collaboration with The People’s Institute for Survival and Beyond; and WHEREAS, dismantling hate and bias in our community requires a collective effort and meaningful collaboration between the city, its staff, and residents; and WHEREAS, an addition of Bystander Intervention training would empower staff and community members with the skills to safely intervene and respond to instances of hate-driven discrimination or violence; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends adequate funding be allocated to Anti-hate campaigns and programs, creating a centralized hub where both staff and citizens can easily access information on reporting hate-based incidents, current program offerings, and available public trainings. THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Commission recommends expanding outreach efforts to engage a broader and more diverse audience. We urge the city council to invest in the expansion of Undoing Racism trainings for the general public, and to ensure that both city staff and community members have access to Bystander Intervention training. These efforts are critical to fostering a safer, more inclusive, and better-informed community. 1 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=427170 2 https://austin-against-hate-austin.hub.arcgis.com/ Date of Approval: __3/29/2025____________ Record of the vote: Unanimous Vote: 7-0 on Yohana Saucedo 1st and Aditi Joshi’s 2nd. For: Melissa Ortega (Chair), Adrian De La Rosa, Azeem Edwin, Canan Kaba, Miriam Dorantes (Vice Chair) Attest: _____Gunjen Mittal_____________ (Staff or board member can sign)
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032905: Providing Resources for Immigrant Students WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was established to advise the city council on matters of common concern to immigrants, particularly in the areas of health and human services, education, and the demographic makeup of the Austin immigrant community; and WHEREAS, recent tragic events, such as the suicide of Jocelynn Rojo-Carranza, an 11-year-old girl who was bullied over her family’s immigration status, highlight the severe and devastating impacts of immigration-related discrimination and the lack of adequate protections within schools; and 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; and WHEREAS, immigrants in Austin, including students, face systemic challenges, bullying, harassment, and an overall lack of understanding about their rights and protections; and 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; and WHEREAS, access to information about immigration laws and rights continues to be a barrier for many immigrants and their families, exacerbating their vulnerability, fostering distrust of local institutions, and jeopardizing their constitutional due process rights; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs of the City of Austin recommends that the city council allocate $250,000 in funding to support supplies and materials necessary for the implementation of immigrant student protections, rights to education, and family support services. This funding will ensure: 1. Traditional and Digital Media 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 prioritizing areas with Title I schools and communities with high immigrant populations (materials include, but are not limited to, “Know Your Rights” cards and Family Preparedness 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 Toolkits a) Creation of toolkits that include training materials and engagement resources on immigration rights and protections in partnership with …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032906: Budget Recommendation Providing Funding for Printing and Distribution of "Know Your Rights" Red Cards at Austin Public Library Sites WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was established to advise the city council on matters of common concern to immigrants, particularly in the areas of health and human services, education, and the demographic makeup of the Austin immigrant community; and WHEREAS, public libraries serve as trusted and accessible community spaces where residents can receive critical information about their rights, particularly those related to immigration, law enforcement interactions, and workplace protections; and, WHEREAS, organizations such as the Immigrant Legal Resource Center and other advocacy groups have developed "Know Your Rights" red cards to help individuals understand their constitutional rights in various situations, including interactions with law enforcement and immigration officials; and, WHEREAS, ensuring that all Austin Public Library locations have printed "Know Your Rights" red cards available in multiple languages will empower community members with important legal information and contribute to greater public awareness and safety; and, WHEREAS, the costs associated with printing and distributing these materials include design, translation, printing, and distribution across all Austin Public Library branches; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Commission on Immigrant Affairs encourages the city council to allocate $25,000 for FY 2025–2026 budget to the Austin Public Library for the printing and distribution of "Know Your Rights" red cards at all library locations, ensuring that critical legal information is accessible to all community members. Date of Approval: __3/29/2025____________ Record of the vote: Unanimous Vote: 7-0 on Yohana Saucedo 1st and Aditi Joshi 2nd. For: Melissa Ortega (Chair), Adrian De La Rosa, Miriam Dorantes (Vice Chair), Canan Kaba, Yohana Saucedo Attest: _____Gunjen Mittal_____________ (Staff or board member can sign)
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032908: Reallocation of Quality-of-Life Study Funds to the FY 2025–2026 Budget WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was established to advise the city council on matters of common concern to immigrants, and WHEREAS, in the FY 2022–2023 budget, the city council approved $1.2 million for Quality-of-Life studies, to be distributed among five commissions, including the Commission on Immigrant Affairs; and WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was unable to meet to discuss the Quality-of-Life Study process due to an ongoing shortage of members and other contributing factors; and WHEREAS, the funds are still available and must be reallocated to the FY 2025–2026; and WHEREAS, the results of the Quality-of-Life study will provide up-to-date and accurate information, equipping and guiding the Commission on Immigrant Affairs, particularly with our policy and budget recommendations to city council, as well as improving outreach and engagement efforts; and WHEREAS, in a time of increasingly restrictive immigration policies, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs is committed to partnering with researchers who prioritize anti-racist, equity-based approaches and implement strong safeguards in data collection and analysis; and WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs has not had a Quality-of-Life study and at this time we have incomplete information about our immigrant communities, which affects our ability to support and serve them; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs encourages city council to direct the Budget Office to reallocate the funds provided for a Quality-of-life study on FY2022–2023 to FY2025–2026. Date of Approval: __3/29/2025____________ Record of the vote: Unanimous Vote: 7-0 on Miriam Dorantes (Vice Chair) 1st and Aditi Joshi’s 2nd. For: Melissa Ortega (Chair), Adrian De La Rosa, Azeem Edwin, Canan Kaba, Yohana Saucedo Attest: _____Gunjen Mittal_____________ (Staff or board member can sign)
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032907: Family Stabilization Program as a Mechanism for Promoting Housing Stability WHEREAS, affordability continues to be one of the most common issues expressed by residents. The Family Stabilization Program offers more flexible access to housing support, accords more choice and dignity, reduces discrimination, and offers more efficient and cost-effective housing; and WHEREAS, at the Community Voices & Choices: Joint Inclusion Committee FY26 Budget Input Sessions, several residents expressed support again for the ongoing funding of this program; and WHEREAS, according to findings from the Urban Institute’s report titled Evaluation of the Austin Guaranteed Income Pilot, it can be very difficult for cities like Austin to meet their residents’ needs through subsidized house programs, as federal housing programs have limited reach and limited funding; and WHEREAS, even Austin residents that are lucky enough to receive federal housing assistance continue to struggle with housing issues, and about 40% of households nationally that receive a voucher never successfully lease a unit; and WHEREAS, in Austin, most voucher holders were only able to move to less desirable housing on the outskirts of the city, which may cause additional burdens like poor transportation options, limited access to healthy foods, limited access to medical care, and employment and caregiving challenges. WHEREAS, other forms of housing assistance provide specific housing units; however, this comes with its own problems. Residents have limited options, if any. Buildings are only required to keep their rents affordable for a certain period of time, and then they can increase rent, these units are set up to be affordable based on the area median income (AMI), and they do not provide the deep affordability that residents need; and WHEREAS, according to the report, Austin’s local affordable housing inventory lists six times the number of units with rents set to be affordable at 80 percent of AMI as units with rents set to be affordable at 30 percent of AMI, Additionally, these units offer set rental prices, and the person is still responsible for paying the full rent even if they experience job insecurity; and WHEREAS, according to findings from the Urban Institute’s report titled Evaluation of the Austin Guaranteed Income Pilot, participants reported spending, on average, more than 50% of their pilot cash to cover housing costs, and the average share participants spent on housing was more than twice as much spending in any other …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032904: Budget Expand Equity and Inclusion Trainings. WHEREAS, the City of Austin continues to see an increase in reported hate crimes and hate incidents year to year since 2021; and WHEREAS, city initiatives around anti-hate currently are housed in a variety of different offices and departments, and WHEREAS, the We All Belong Campaign is housed in the Corporate Public Information Office, the Safe Place program is housed in the Austin Police Department, and Undoing Racism trainings are housed in the Office of Equity & Inclusion1; and WHEREAS, while each program has varying degrees of public engagement and participation, city staff and public citizens would benefit from expanded access and visibility about these services; and WHEREAS, some community members may not feel comfortable reporting acts of hate to the City of Austin or local law enforcement 2; and WHEREAS, the Equity Division advances its mission by hosting Undoing Racism in collaboration with The People’s Institute for Survival and Beyond; and WHEREAS, dismantling hate and bias in our community requires a collective effort and meaningful collaboration between the city, its staff, and residents; and WHEREAS, an addition of Bystander Intervention training would empower staff and community members with the skills to safely intervene and respond to instances of hate-driven discrimination or violence; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends adequate funding be allocated to Anti-hate campaigns and programs, creating a centralized hub where both staff and citizens can easily access information on reporting hate-based incidents, current program offerings, and available public trainings. THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Commission recommends expanding outreach efforts to engage a broader and more diverse audience. We urge the city council to invest in the expansion of Undoing Racism trainings for the general public, and to ensure that both city staff and community members have access to Bystander Intervention training. These efforts are critical to fostering a safer, more inclusive, and better-informed community. 1 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=427170 2 https://austin-against-hate-austin.hub.arcgis.com/ Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032908: Reallocation of Quality-of-Life Study Funds to the FY 2025–2026 Budget WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was established to advise the city council on matters of common concern to immigrants, and WHEREAS, in the FY 2022–2023 budget, the city council approved $1.2 million for Quality-of-Life studies, to be distributed among five commissions, including the Commission on Immigrant Affairs; and WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was unable to meet to discuss the Quality-of-Life Study process due to an ongoing shortage of members and other contributing factors; and WHEREAS, the funds are still available and must be reallocated to the FY 2025–2026; and WHEREAS, the results of the Quality-of-Life study will provide up-to-date and accurate information, equipping and guiding the Commission on Immigrant Affairs, particularly with our policy and budget recommendations to city council, as well as improving outreach and engagement efforts; and WHEREAS, in a time of increasingly restrictive immigration policies, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs is committed to partnering with researchers who prioritize anti-racist, equity-based approaches and implement strong safeguards in data collection and analysis; and WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs has not had a Quality-of-Life study and at this time we have incomplete information about our immigrant communities, which affects our ability to support and serve them; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs encourages city council to direct the Budget Office to reallocate the funds provided for a Quality-of-life study on FY2022–2023 to FY2025–2026. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032906: Budget Recommendation Providing Funding for Printing and Distribution of "Know Your Rights" Red Cards at Austin Public Library Sites WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was established to advise the city council on matters of common concern to immigrants, particularly in the areas of health and human services, education, and the demographic makeup of the Austin immigrant community; and WHEREAS, public libraries serve as trusted and accessible community spaces where residents can receive critical information about their rights, particularly those related to immigration, law enforcement interactions, and workplace protections; and, WHEREAS, organizations such as the Immigrant Legal Resource Center and other advocacy groups have developed "Know Your Rights" red cards to help individuals understand their constitutional rights in various situations, including interactions with law enforcement and immigration officials; and, WHEREAS, ensuring that all Austin Public Library locations have printed "Know Your Rights" red cards available in multiple languages will empower community members with important legal information and contribute to greater public awareness and safety; and, WHEREAS, the costs associated with printing and distributing these materials include design, translation, printing, and distribution across all Austin Public Library branches; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Commission on Immigrant Affairs encourages the city council to allocate $25,000 for FY 2025–2026 budget to the Austin Public Library for the printing and distribution of "Know Your Rights" red cards at all library locations, ensuring that critical legal information is accessible to all community members. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032905: Providing Resources for Immigrant Students WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was established to advise the city council on matters of common concern to immigrants, particularly in the areas of health and human services, education, and the demographic makeup of the Austin immigrant community; and WHEREAS, recent tragic events, such as the suicide of Jocelynn Rojo-Carranza, an 11-year-old girl who was bullied over her family’s immigration status, highlight the severe and devastating impacts of immigration-related discrimination and the lack of adequate protections within schools; and 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; and WHEREAS, immigrants in Austin, including students, face systemic challenges, bullying, harassment, and an overall lack of understanding about their rights and protections; and 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; and WHEREAS, access to information about immigration laws and rights continues to be a barrier for many immigrants and their families, exacerbating their vulnerability, fostering distrust of local institutions, and jeopardizing their constitutional due process rights; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs of the City of Austin recommends that the city council allocate $250,000 in funding to support supplies and materials necessary for the implementation of immigrant student protections, rights to education, and family support services. This funding will ensure: 1. Traditional and Digital Media 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 prioritizing areas with Title I schools and communities with high immigrant populations (materials include, but are not limited to, “Know Your Rights” cards and Family Preparedness 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 Toolkits a) Creation of toolkits that include training materials and engagement resources on immigration rights and protections in partnership with …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Friday, March 28, 2025, 5:30pm Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room #1101 301 West 2nd Street Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities 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, call or email Christi Vitela, 512- 974-2792, christi.vitela@austintexas.gov. Conor Kelly Pete Salazar Elizabeth Slade Kristen Vassallo CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Elisabeth Meyer, Chair Jonathan Franks, Vice Chair Gabriel Arellano Lisa Chang Mickey Fetonte CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA 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. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting on March 7, 2025. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 2. 3. 4. Recommendations from recommendations for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. the Budget Working Group regarding budget DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Approve a Budget Recommendation to Council regarding Micromobility Devices Impeding Public Walkways. Approve a Budget Recommendation to Council regarding Recognizing and Celebrating People with Disabilities. 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 call Christi Vitela at the City Clerk Department at 512-974-2792 or email christi.vitela@austintexas.gov for additional information. TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities, please contact Christi Vitela at the City Clerk Department at 512-974-2792 or email christi.vitela@austintexas.gov.
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Friday, March 7, 2025 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Friday, March 7, 2025 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular called meeting on Friday, March 7, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St Austin, Texas. Chair Meyer called the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Meeting to order at 5:37 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Elisabeth Meyer, Chair Gabriel Arellano Conor Kelly Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Jonathan Franks, Vice Chair Lisa Chang Mickey Fetonte Jennifer Powell Kristen Vassallo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting on February 7, 2025. The minutes from the meeting on February 7, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Powell’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Chair Meyer abstained. Commissioner Vassallo was off the dais. Commissioner Salazar was absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Friday, March 7, 2025 2. 3. 4. 6. Presentation and discussion of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Action Plan for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. Presentation by James May, Officer Housing & Community Development, Rocio Pena-Martinez, Grants Program Manager, Housing Department and Julie Smith, Engagement Specialist, Housing Department. The presentation was made by James May, Officer Housing & Community Development, Rocio Pena-Martinez, Grants Program Manager, Housing Department and Julie Smith, Engagement Specialist, Housing Department. Discussion of micromobility and obstruction of sidewalks. The presentation was made by Michael Kimbro, Program Manager III, Austin Transportation and Public Works, and Joseph Al-Hajeri, Parking Enterprise Manager, Austin Transportation and Public Works. Discussion of upcoming changes to the fare system at CapMetro. Discussed. 5. Discussion of bringing awareness to 2025 disability events in the Austin area. Discussed. Discussion of the City of Austin budget process, Fiscal Year 2024-2025 budget recommendations and of proposed budget recommendations for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Formation of a Working Group to research and write Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget recommendations. The motion to form a Working Group to research and write Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget recommendations was approved on Chair Meyer’s motion, Commissioner Kelly’s second and approved on a 7-0 vote. Vice Chair Franks was off the dais. Commissioner Salazar was absent. Chair Meyer and Commissioners Chang, Kelly, and Powell were added to the working group without objection. 8. Discussion of ways the …
BOARD AND COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Recommendation Number: (20250328-XXX): Micromobility Devices Impeding Public Walkways WHEREAS, micromobility devices blocking public walkways, such as electric scooters, pose a hazard and limit individuals with mobility and vision impairments from effectively utilizing walkways; and WHEREAS, the Committee for People with Disabilities has considered this issue by soliciting feedback from community members, micromobility providers, the Department of Transportation and Public Works; and WHEREAS, the Committee for People with Disabilities has determined that in addition to current efforts by the City of Austin and micromobility providers, more must be done to make walkways safe and passable for all members of the community, including individuals with disabilities. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities encourages the Austin City Council to allocate funds (1) to develop signage encouraging proper parking to be posted in areas where micromobility use is high, and (2) towards enforcement of section Chapter 12-2-15 of the Code of Ordinances requiring micromobility devices to be parked appropriately. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: X-X For: Against: Absent: Attest: _____________________________________________ [NAME]
BOARD AND COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Recommendation Number: (20250328-XXX): Recognizing and Celebrating People with Disabilities WHEREAS, Austin has vibrant and robust communities of individuals with disabilities that make up a significant portion of Austin’s population; and WHEREAS, individuals with disabilities and their communities are often under resourced and more is needed to bring awareness to their issues; and WHEREAS, to bring awareness to and celebrate the Austin community of people with disabilities, the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities encourages the City to sponsor, attend, and/or recognize community events celebrating important yearly milestones for communities made up of people with disabilities. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities encourages the Austin City Council to allocate funds for the Committee to sponsor, attend, or recognize community events or celebrations for the following yearly milestones for communities of people with disabilities: ● 15 May - Global Accessibility Awareness Day ● 26 July - Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Anniversary ● October - National Disability Employment Awareness Month ● 3 December - International Day of Persons with Disabilities Date of Approval: March 28, 2025 Record of the vote: X-X For: Against: Absent: Attest: _____________________________________________ [NAME]
