REGULAR MEETING of the ARTS COMMISSION April 21, 2025, at 6:00 PM Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001. 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the ARTS COMMISSION may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than Noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Jesús Varela at jesus.varela@austintexas.gov or at 512-974-2444. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Celina Zisman - Chair, Heidi Schmalbach - Vice Chair, Keyheira Keys, Monica Maldonado, Felipe Garza, Gina Houston, Acia Gray, Muna Hussaini, Faiza Kracheni, Sharron B Anderson, Nagavalli Medicharla AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Arts Commission Regular Meeting on March 24, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Report of the Art in Public Places Liaison concerning actions taking during the April 7th meeting of the Art in Public Places Panel by Commissioner Maldonado STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Staff briefing regarding an update on the Hotel Occupancy Tax by Matthew Schmidt, Acting Cultural Arts Division Manager 4. Staff briefing on the Cultural Arts Funding Programs by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor and Candice Cooper, Interim Chief Administrative Officer DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve the Selection Process Recommendations for the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) Airport Expansion & Development Program (AEDP) Phase II Art in Public Places Projects – Midfield Concourse, Departures Ticketing, Arrivals Baggage Claim, Arrivals Curbside, Elevated Pedestrian Bridge, and Lower-Level Pedestrian Crossings. 6. Approve the Selection Process Recommendations for the Walter E. Long and John Treviño, Jr. Metro Parks, Districts 1 & 2. 7. Approve the Final Design for the Austin Public Health / SAFE Alliance Art in Public Places Project – Felipe Gomez. 8. Appoint new representative to the Downtown Commission. 9. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 10. Update from joint Arts/Music Commission Working Group on Urban Core Issues with Commissioners Gray, and Schmalbach (chair). 11. Update …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING of the URBAN RENEWAL BOARD April 21, 2025, 6:00 P.M. STREET JONES BUILDING, ROOM 400A 1000 EAST 11TH ST, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78702 Some members of the Urban Renewal Board may be participating by videoconference and a quorum will be present at the location identified above. 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 Hunter Maples, (512) 974-3120 or hunter.maples@austintexas.gov. The Urban Renewal Board reserves the right to go into closed session to discuss any of the items on this agenda as permitted by the Texas Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Manuel Escobar, Chair Darrell W, Pierce, Vice Chair Amit Motwani Byron Davis Jacqueline Watson Kobla Tetey Tam Hawkins AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers who registered to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting, if speaking virtually, or who signed up prior to the meeting being called to order if speaking in person, 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 Urban Renewal Board’s (URB’s) regular-called meeting on February 24, 2025 1 of 2 DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. Discussion related to the Urban Renewal Plan amendment process (Hunter Maples, Housing Department) Discussion related to updates on future development of Blocks 16 & 18 from Rally Austin and Pleasant Hill Collaborative, including project status and anticipated timeline (Lex Miller, Rally Austin, Jen Boss, Hayat Brown, Sean Garretson and Garrett Scharton, Pleasant Hill Collaborative) DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS EXECUTIVE SESSION 4. 5. Discuss legal matters related to the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of an interest in Blocks 16 and 18 located on East 11th Street in Austin (Private consultation with legal counsel - Section 551.071 of the Texas Government Code) Discuss real estate matters related to the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of an interest in Blocks 16 and 18 located on East 11th Street in Austin (Real Property - Section 551.072 of the Texas Government Code) FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS …
DRAFT MINUTES URBAN RENEWAL BOARD March 24, 2025, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1401/1402 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR. AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Manuel Escobar, Chair Darrell W, Pierce, Vice Chair Amit Motwani Byron Davis Jacqueline Watson Kobla Tetey Tam Hawkins Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Manuel Escobar, Commissioners Byron Davis, Kobla Tetey, and Jacqueline Watson, and Vice Chair Darrell W. Pierce. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: No members attended remotely. Board Members Absent/off the dais at call to order: Commissioner Tam Hawkins and Amit Motwani were absent. CALL TO ORDER Chair Escobar, called the meeting to order at 6:09 p.m. with five members present. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers who registered to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting, if speaking virtually, or who signed up prior to the meeting being called to order if speaking in person, will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. Harold McMilan and Sean Garretson addressed the board on item two. Paul Stables addressed the board on item three. 1 of 3 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Urban Renewal Board’s (URB’s) regular-called meeting on February 24, 2025 On Commissioner Watson’s motion, seconded by Commissioner Davis, the minutes from February 24, 2025, were approved with a vote of 5-0-0. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion related to updates on future development of Blocks 16 & 18 from Rally Austin and Pleasant Hill Collaborative, including project status and anticipated timeline (Lex Miller, Rally Austin, Jen Boss, Hayat Brown, Sean Garretson and Garrett Scharton, Pleasant Hill Collaborative) Harold McMilan and Sean Garretson from Pleasant Hill Collaborative addressed the board. 3. Discussion and possible action regarding the request to amend the Urban Renewal Plan to allow additional uses at 1201 E 11th St. Hunter Maples from the City of Austin Housing Department provided the update. Paul Staples updated the board on the rezoning of 11th St. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Discuss and approve further action in support of the Urban Renewal Board Recommendation to City Council related to the upcoming budget cycle for the Urban Renewal Board Assistant Director Anne Eaton of the Economic Development Department addressed the board. Director Angela Means, Office of Arts, Cultural Music and Entertainment, addressed the board. On Commissioner Watson’s motion, seconded by Commissioner Davis, Chair Escobar was authorized to submit …
REGULAR MEETING of the LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION Monday, April 21, 2025, at 6:30 P.M. Austin City Hall, Boards & Commissions Room 1101 301 W 2nd St., Austin, Texas 78701 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, contact Ryan Sperling, Office of the City Clerk, at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Commissioner Kitty McLeod Katie Coyne VACANT Brigitte Bandit Appointment District 1 District 2 District 3 District 4 Jerry Joe Benson (Vice Chair) District 5 KB Brookins VACANT J. Scott Neal (Chair) Garry Brown District 6 District 7 District 8 Morgan Davis Taylor Treviño CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA Commissioner Mariana Krueger Appointment District 9 Brandon Wollerson District 10 Rocío Fierro-Pérez Mayor Alexander Andersen Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder 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 LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission's special called meeting on March 17, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS Page 1 of 4 2. Presentation regarding LGBTQIA+ related bills and actions in the 2025 Texas Legislature session. Presentation by Miriam Laeky, Government Affairs Director, Equality Texas. 3. Discussion with Austin Police Department on the state of its and its officers’ relations with the LGBTQIA+ community, including existing, pending and potential efforts to improve understanding, relations, and accountability. 4. Discussion regarding feedback from members of the public about amenities, services, programs, missions, and visions prioritized at a potential LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center, including those garnered from Mentimeter survey results. 5. Discussion regarding the location, date, procedures, and topics to be discussed at a potential LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission retreat. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 6. Recommendation to the commission from the Task Force Candidate Selection Working Group on suggested candidates to serve on the LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center Task Force as described in Resolution 20240814-022. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Discussion and possible action to approve a recommended list of candidates to …
Task Force Selection Criteria Italicized are preferred experience 1. Professional Experience and Expertise: ○ Candidates should have experience in the planning, funding, or construction/founding of community/cultural centers, with preference given to those serving the LGBTQ+ community. ○ Experience in navigating government bureaucracy or in fundraising and development within nonprofit or governmental contexts. ○ Experience in the following fields: affordable housing, healthcare, community and regional/urban planning, architecture, foundations, non-profit management, and public administration ○ Prior involvement in significant ($100,000+) fundraising campaigns that demonstrate capability in securing large-scale funding for major projects. ○ Prior involvement in bond elections is highly regarded. 2. Organizational Representation: ○ Each candidate must represent a distinct organization or community group, with a limit of one representative per organization to ensure a diverse range of insights and avoid conflicts of interest. ○ Preference for candidates representing organizations that have a vested interest in the success of LGBTQ+ community initiatives, including historical contributions to such causes. 3. Diversity and Inclusion: ○ The selection process should prioritize diversity in terms of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, nationality, disability, religion, age, and professional background to reflect the community's spectrum. ○ Efforts should be made to include voices from underrepresented groups within the LGBTQ+ community (example: youth, elders, BIPOC, people with disabilities, queer immigrants, unhoused/previously unhoused, working class), ensuring that the task force’s composition mirrors the community’s diversity. 4. Local Community Ties: ○ Candidates should have a history of doing community-engaged services, advocacy, or development activities. ○ One or more candidates should have ties to ongoing cultural center efforts (ex: the Black Embassy, the Veteran’s Cultural Center, the Intergenerational Cultural Center, the Dougherty Arts Center) ○ Strong preference for candidates who have established connections within Austin's local community and a deep understanding of its unique challenges and opportunities. ○ Strong preference for candidates who have established connections within Austin's local LGBTQ+ community and a deep understanding of its unique challenges and opportunities. 5. Commitment to Fairness and Transparency: ○ Candidates must demonstrate a commitment to fairness, transparency, and inclusivity in both their professional conduct and their approach to the feasibility study. ○ They should be willing to engage in open dialogues, consider multiple perspectives, work democratically, and actively resolve conflict in a healthy manner. ○ Candidates will agree to prioritize community needs, with particular attention to the most vulnerable parts of the LGBTQ+ community. 6. Conflict of Interest Policy: ○ All …
City Politics Nominee Final List Affiliation Email Phone Nominator T O T A L D esig n/C o n stru ctio n Fin a n ce/F u n draisin g B o n d/P u blic F u n din g L G B T Q +/BIP O C Affiliatio n L G B T Q + Id e ntifie d BIP O C Id e ntifie d L o cal Prese n ce History of E n g a g e m e nt C o nfir m e d C o m m it m e nt to Pro cess N o C o nflict of Interest A n y Oth er C o m m e nts Professional Expertise/Experience Organizational Representation/DEI Community Ties P l a n n i n g P r o g r a m m i n g H o u s i n g C y n t h i a " C y " H e r r e r a 1 A s h W e l l J e r r y J o e 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 J i m m y F l a n n i g a n 1 P r i o r C i t y J e r r y J o e 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 M i r i a m C o n n e r 1 C r e a t i v e P o l i c y K C 1 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 R o d n e y G o n z a l e z 1 f o r m e r A s s t . C i t y M a n a g e r ; S a n M a r c o s A s s t . C i t y M a n a g e r K C 9 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 D e e p F i n c a i a l B a c k g r o u n d L a u r a E s p a r z a 1 A 3 ( A r …
LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES Monday, March 17, 2025 The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a special called meeting on Monday, March 17, 2025, at 6:30 PM at the City of Austin Permitting and Development Center, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr., Austin, Texas, 78752, Room #1401/1402. Commissioners in attendance in person: J. Scott Neal (Chair) Katie Coyne Morgan Davis Rocío Fierro-Pérez Mariana Krueger Kitty McLeod Commissioners in attendance remotely: Alexander Andersen Brigitte Bandit Garry Brown Taylor Treviño Chair Neal called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission's regular meeting on March 3rd, 2025. The minutes were approved on Commissioner Coyne’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second, on a 10-0 vote. Vice Chair Benson and Commissioners Brookins and Wollerson were absent. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 2. Recommendations from the Budget Working Group on budget recommendations for the City of Austin 25-26 Fiscal Year. Recommendations provided by Commissioner Brown. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion regarding the survey status and results from the March 3rd LGBTQ Cultural Center Town Page 1 of 4 Hall. Discussion was held. 4. Discussion regarding potential future recommendations on the scope of the LGBTQ Cultural Center project based on related discussion at the March 3rd LGBTQ Cultural Center Town Hall. Discussion was held. 5. Discussion on the Commission requesting Austin Police Department presence at commission meetings. Discussion was held. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve a recommendation for the City of Austin 2025-26 Fiscal Year on funding for a grant program for local nonprofits that focus on temporary shelters and crisis care for the transgender community in Austin. The recommendation was amended to strike “LGBTQ+ non-profits which are primarily focused on providing temporary housing and crisis care to the local trans population.” and insert “organizations historically serving LGBTQIA+ individuals who are unhoused or at risk of becoming unhoused, with priority to transgender, nonbinary, and gender-expansive individuals.” and “BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the LGBTQ Quality of Life Commission recommends to the Austin City Council: Any existing or new FY2026 funding for affordable housing programs at the City prioritizes deeply affordable housing, below 30% MFI, with a focus on ensuring LGBTQIA+ community members are aware of these types of housing resources.” The motion to amend was approved on Chair Neal’s motion, Commissioner Coyne’s second on a 10-0 vote. …
Hotel Occupancy Tax Update Arts Commission Meeting April 21, 2025 Hotel Occupancy Tax – March 2025 Approved Budget Amended Budget March w/ Encumb Year-to-date w/Encumb Year-End Estimate Total Revenue $169,901,585 $169,901,585 $1,964,718 $75,089,308 $165,125,756 Transfer to Cultural Arts Fund $16,217,879 $16,217,879 $169,486 $7,171,105 $15,762,004 • Total HOT Collections March 2025 = $1,964,718 • 44% of FY25 Approved Budget of $169,901,585 • Cultural Arts Fund March 2025 = $169,486 C I T Y O F A U S T I N HOT Cultural Arts Fund - FY25 C I T Y O F A U S T I N Approved Budget for FY25: $16,217,879 FY25 HOT Cultural Arts Fund to date: $7,171,105 HOT Collections (FY22 – FY25) C I T Y O F A U S T I N Questions? C I T Y O F A U S T I N
Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment (ACME) Cultural Arts Funding Update April 21, 2025 Agenda 1. CONTRACTS & PAYMENTS 2. CULTURAL ARTS FUNDING UPDATES 3. GRANT FUNDED ACTIVITIES Contracts & Payments Contracts & Payments (As of 3/19/25) FY23 Elevate FY23 Nexus (Fall/Winter) FY24 Nexus (Spring/ Summer) FY23-24 Thrive (Year 1) FY23-24 Thrive (Year 2) Total Contracts Signed & Processed Contracts Test payments issued & verified Payment 1 Issued Payment 2 Issued Payment 3 Issued 199 199 (100%) 199 (100%) 199 (100%) 197 (98%) 181 (91%) 51 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 49 (96%) n/a 51 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 44 (86%) n/a 36 36 (100%) 36 (100%) 36 (100%) 36 (100%) n/a See year 1 N/A N/A 35 (97%) 35 (100%) n/a Total Dist. to date Total Allocation $6,127,692 (96%) $6,250,000 $254,000 (99%) $255,000 $251,500 (100%) $255,000 $3,901,500 (100%) $3,901,500 (100%) $3,901,500 $3,901,500 *Each grant has a different reporting deadline. Final Payments are issued upon successful close out of Final Report. Cultural Arts Funding Updates Program Update • ACME Program Evalution and Strategic Plan • Community Feedback • 2020-2025 Data Collection & Analysis • Cultural Funding Guidelines • Language Revision • Working Group Feedback FY 25 Nexus Timeline January 28, 2025 May 1, 2025 May 30, 2026 Nexus application opens Nexus activities begin Latest Nexus Final Report due date Nexus application closes Last day for Nexus activities March 6, 2025 April 30, 2026 FY 25 Elevate Timeline Grant Funded Activities FY 24-25 Cultural Funding Grantee Activities Without Borders/Sin Fronteras: A Solo Exhibition February 1 – May 10 DORF (District 5) – DORF Games Y’all April 24 Games Y’all (District 3) – Museum of Human Achievement Lipstick: A Queer Farce April 11 – April 26 Austin Rainbow Theatre (District 9) – Ground Floor Theatre Music Mixer ATX April 24 Music Mixer ATX (District 9) – The Highball I Scream Social featuring Lisa Olstein, Sebastian Páramo, Camari Carter Hawkins, & Ella Kim April 25 Host Publications (District 9) – Alienated Majesty Books C I TY O F A U S T I N FY 24-25 Cultural Funding Grantee Activities Rancho Alegre Conjunto Music Festival April 25 – April 27 Rancho Alegre – Central Machine Works Brewery & Doris Miller Auditorium (ETJ) Madame Butterfly April 25 – April 27 Austin Opera (District 7) – Long Center Austin Blues Festival April 26 – April 27 Clifford Antone Foundation (District 9) – Moody …
Selection Process Recommendations for Phase II AUS Airport Expansion & Development Program AIPP Opportunities Arts Commission Meeting - April 21, 2025 Art In Public Places Austin-Bergstrom International Airport AUS-AIPP AEDP Phase II Artist Selection Panel Recommendation Sponsoring Department: Aviation Project Budget: Total $4.7M Midfield Concourse: $400K Departures Ticketing: $1M Arrivals Baggage Claim: $1M Arrivals Curbside: $512K Elevated Pedestrian Bridge: $540K Lower-Level Pedestrian Crossings: $416K (x3 = $1.248M) Council District: District 2 Project Manager: Alex Irrera 1 AUS-AIPP AEDP Phase II PROJECT BACKGROUND Commissioning bodies* sponsored an open call for Texas-based artists/artist- led teams to submit qualifications for design, fabrication, and installation consideration for large to medium-scale interdisciplinary, mixed or multimedia artworks within AUS's Airport Expansion & Development Program (AEDP). Opportunities were identified as Phase II of the AUS Arts Sites and Opportunities Plan as: • Midfield Concourse • • • • • Departures Ticketing Arrivals Baggage Claim Arrivals Curbside Elevated Pedestrian Bridge Lower-Level Pedestrian Crossings *The City of Austin Art in Public Places program (AIPP) of the Cultural Arts Division, Economic Development Department (EDD) and Austin- Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) 2 AUS-AIPP AEDP Phase II SOLICITATION PROCESS: Open Call to Texas-Based Artists Evaluation Criteria • Technical skills and aesthetic appeal of past work • Relevant and applicable experience • Authenticity, creativity, and innovation of work as presented • Communication of ideas and intentions • Ability to deliver completed projects on time and within budget 3 AUS-AIPP AEDP Phase II SELECTION MEMBERS Voting Jesus ‘Cimi’ Alvarado, Muralist, El Paso, TX Danielle Burns Wilson, Executive Director, Project Row Houses, Houston, TX Linda LaMantia, Texas Cultural Trust Board of Directors At-Large & Artist, Laredo, TX Giovani Valderas, Assistant Professor for Painting & Drawing Texas Woman’s University & Artist, Denton, TX Non-Voting Advisory Robert Mercado, Program Manager / Architect, AUS Nick Garcia, Program Design Manager, AEDP, AUS Kristi-Anne Shaer, AIPP Panel Liaison Stephanie Lemmo, AIPP Panel Liaison 4 AUS-AIPP AEDP Phase II APPLICATION RESULTS 195 COMPLETED APPLICATIONS (68% LOCAL) SELECTION RESULTS MARCH 4, 2025 MARCH 21 & 25 + APRIL 1, 2025 Selection Panel Convened/Reviewed Eligible Completed Applications (4 hours) Selection Panel Convened/Deliberated 15 Artists Interviews (14 hours) AIPP OPPORTUNITY ESTIMATED ARTIST BUDGET RECOMMENDED ARTIST RECOMMENDED ALTERNATE Midfield Concourse Departures Ticketing Arrivals Baggage Claim Arrivals Curbside Elevated Pedestrian Bridge $400,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $512,000 $540,000 Lower-Level Pedestrian Crossings $416,000 per crossing Virginia L. Montgomery* Carlyn Ray Gilberto Rocha Jasmine …
• Project: Walter E. Long and John Trevino, Jr Metro Parks • Artist(s): Dharmesh Patel (recommended), John Maisano (alternate) • Phase: Artist Selection • Sponsoring Department: Parks & Recreation Department (PARD) • Project Budget: $100,100 • Council District: District 2 and District 4 • Project Manager: Rebecca Rende and Bryana Iglesias AIPP Panel Meeting Agenda Item #5 Date:04/07/2025 Walter E. Long & John Trevino, Jr Metro Parks Selection Criteria • Technical quality and aesthetic appeal of past work • Dedicated and consistent artistic practice • Authenticity, creativity, and innovation of work as presented • Communication of ideas and intentions • Ability and enthusiasm to engage the community in which the artwork will be installed • Experience with public art projects of a relatively similar size and scope Artwork Goals • A work of art of redeeming quality that advances public understanding of visual art and enhances the aesthetic quality of public places • Conceptualizes a strong overall artwork design approach that integrates with the site and surrounding natural environment • Is easily maintained and vandal resistant in an exterior environment • Is permanent with an expected life span of at least 20 years Walter E. Long & John Trevino, Jr Metro Parks Vision Plan John Trevino, Jr Metro Park Wlater E. Long Metro Park Rendering Artist Selection Process Open Call (publicartist.org) • 33 applications received • AIPP Staff determined 30 applications were eligible Selection Panel Voting Panelists • Celica Ledesma, AIPP artist • • Andrea McDowell, Visual Arts Professional Jacqueline Overby, Austin artist Selection Panel Non-voting Advisors • Alicia Perez Hodge, Community Member • Reynaldo Hernandez, Sponsor Project Manager, Parks & Recreation • D’Anne Williams, Sponsor Project Manager, Parks & Recreation • Mel Fuechec, Capital Delivery Services Associate Project Manager Selection Results • • January 17, 2025, selection panelist were given access to review and score applications February 28, 2025, the selection panel met for four hours and determined one Recommended Artist (Dharmesh Patel) and on Alternate Artist (John Maisano) for the $100,100 commission Recommended Artist: Dharmesh Patel Out of all applicants I felt as if this artist was the most qualified and appropriate choice for this project. The contemporary and cohesive design aesthetic coupled artistic ingenuity and skill are some of the many factors that aided in my voting choice. –Jacqueline Overby I appreciated his use of light in the space. His pieces feel unique and unexpected. – Andrea …
•Project: Family Violence Shelter & Protection Center – SAFE Alliance •Artist: Felipe Gomez •Phase: Final Design •Sponsoring Department: Austin Public Health •Project Budget: $70,000 •Council District: District 1 •Project Manager: Lindsay Hutchens Arts Commission Meeting 04/21/2025 Family Violence Shelter & Protection Center Project Background City Council unanimously passed Resolution No. 20200604-048 to acquire a former Super 8 Hotel and fund SAFE Alliance to operate and manage the property as a protective shelter from family violence. This is the first time the city has invested in such a shelter in 20 years. I N O T A T N E S E R P FELIPE GOMEZ I , X T N T S U A . R E T N E C E C N E L O V S N E M O W I FINAL CONCEPT DESIGN PROPOSAL MARCH 2025 01 About me 03 Concept Narrative 05 Budget 07 Contact 02 Community Egagement 04 Schedule 06 Site map 07 Thank you Agenda I N O T C U D O R T N I Who is Felipe? Felipe Gomez is a multi-media artist who blends nature, technology, and human emotion through vivid color and layered materials. His work, rooted in surrealism, realism, and geometric abstraction, invites viewers to explore both the external world and their internal landscapes. Originally from Bogotá, Colombia, and now based in Austin, Texas, Felipe’s influences span fine art and street art, particularly screen-printing, which inspired his signature technique of layered wood. As a full-time artist since 2019, he has developed a practice centered on sculpture, color theory, and modern techniques, seeking to evoke emotional and intellectual reflection in his viewers. THE COMMUNITY SAFE Alliance Womens Violence Center Who they are: The SAFE community consists of women and children who are survivors of family violence and trauma. They are individuals navigating difficult journeys toward safety, healing, and empowerment. What they shared: Through art workshops—painting, sculpting, poetry, and journaling—the participants expressed their thoughts, emotions, and desires for a space of solace and reflection. They seek comfort, safety, and calm in their environment. They value opportunities for self-expression, healing, and connection through creative engagement. They desire art that inspires hope, strength, and growth while honoring their resilience. T R O P E R T N E M E G A G N E Y T I N U M M O C WORKSHOP HIGHLIGHTS: REFLECTIONS AND OUTCOMES: Painting: …
REGULAR MEETING of the ARTS COMMISSION April 21, 2025, at 6:00 PM Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001. 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 The ARTS COMMISSION convened in a REGULAR meeting on 21, April 2025 at Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001. 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Commissioner Zisman called the ARTS COMMISSION Meeting to order at 6:06 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Celina Zisman , Felipe Garza, Gina Houston, Sharron B Anderson, Nagavalli Medicharla Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Keyheira Keys, Heidi Schmalbach Board Members Absent: Acia Gray, Muna Hussaini, Faiza Kracheni, Monica Maldonado CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Celina Zisman - Chair, Heidi Schmalbach - Vice Chair, Keyheira Keys, Monica Maldonado, Felipe Garza, Gina Houston, Acia Gray, Muna Hussaini, Faiza Kracheni, Sharron B Anderson, Nagavalli Medicharla MINUTES CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No public comments APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Arts Commission Regular Meeting on March 24, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of March 24, 2025 were approved on Commissioner Garza's motion, Commissioner Schmalbach’s second on a 6-0 vote with Commissioner’s Schmalbach and Anderson abstaining and Commissioners Maldonado, Gray, Hussaini, Kracheni and Medicharla absent DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Report of the Art in Public Places Liaison concerning actions taking during the April 7th meeting of the Art in Public Places Panel by Commissioner Maldonado No Update Given STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Staff briefing regarding an update on the Hotel Occupancy Tax by Matthew Schmidt, Acting Cultural Arts Division Manager The presentation was made by Matthew Schmidt, Acting Cultural Arts Division Manager 4. Staff briefing on the Cultural Arts Funding Programs by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor and Candice Cooper, Interim Chief Administrative Officer The presentation was made by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor and Candice Cooper, Interim Chief Administrative Officer DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve the Selection Process Recommendations for the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) Airport Expansion & Development Program (AEDP) Phase II Art in Public Places Projects – Midfield Concourse, Departures Ticketing, Arrivals Baggage Claim, Arrivals Curbside, Elevated Pedestrian Bridge, and Lower-Level Pedestrian Crossings. The presentation was made by Jaime Castillo, Arts in Public Places Manager Motion to approve Selection Process Recommendations for the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) Airport Expansion & Development Program (AEDP) Phase II Art in Public Places Projects – Midfield Concourse, Departures Ticketing, Arrivals Baggage Claim, Arrivals Curbside, Elevated Pedestrian Bridge, and Lower- Level Pedestrian Crossings …
LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, April 21, 2025 The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, April 21, 2025, at 6:30 PM at Austin City Hall, 312 W 2nd St., Austin, TX 78701, Boards & Commissions Room. Commissioners in attendance in person: J. Scott Neal (Chair) Jerry Joe Benson (Vice Chair) Alexander Andersen Brigitte Bandit KB Brookins Garry Brown Katie Coyne Morgan Davis Rocio Fierro-Perez Mariana Krueger Kitty McLeod Brandon Wollerson Taylor Trevino Chair Neal called the meeting to order at 6:37 PM. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Julian Reyes, APD Misconduct Briana Arredondo, APD Misconduct APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission's special called meeting on March 17, 2025. The minutes were approved on Commissioner Fierro-Pérez’ motion, Vice Chair Benson’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioner Wollerson abstained. Commissioner Andersen was absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation regarding LGBTQIA+ related bills and actions in the 2025 Texas Legislature session. Presentation by Miriam Laeky, Government Affairs Director, Equality Texas. The presentation was made by Miriam Laeky, Government Affairs Director, Equality Texas. Page 1 of 4 3. Discussion with Austin Police Department on the state of its and its officers’ relations with the LGBTQIA+ community, including existing, pending and potential efforts to improve understanding, relations, and accountability. The presentation was made by Robin Henderson, Presentation by Robin Henderson, Chief of Staff; Michael Chancellor, Assistant Chief; and Michael Wilmore-Crumrine, Sergeant, Austin Police Department. The commission went into recess on Chair Scott’s motion, Commissioner Brookins’ second, on a 12-0 vote. Commissioner Andersen was absent. The commission went into recess at 9:20. The meeting was called back to order at 9:39 P.M. 4. Discussion regarding feedback from members of the public about amenities, services, programs, missions, and visions prioritized at a potential LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center, including those garnered from Mentimeter survey results. This item was withdrawn on Chair Neal’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second on a 12-0 vote. Commissioner Andersen was absent. 5. Discussion regarding the location, date, procedures, and topics to be discussed at a potential LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission retreat. Discussion was held. The motion to waive the rules and allow the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission to meet after 10 p.m. was approved on Commissioner Coyne’s motion, Commissioner Brown’s second on a 12-0 vote. Commissioner Andersen was absent. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 6. Recommendation …
REGULAR MEETING of the COMMISSION ON VETERAN AFFAIRS Wednesday, April 16, 2025 7:00 PM – Adjournment City of Austin Permitting & Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr., Room 1401/1402 Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the Commission on Veteran Affairs may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register, email the board liaison at Jesus.Simental@austintexas.gov CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Michael Mcinerney, Chair Amber Schleuning, Vice Chair Christopher Wilson William Dahlstrom Maria Brown-Spence Armando Gonzales Patrick Bissett Philip Reichert Curtis Wyman Gustavo Ramirez VACANT – D2 CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION APPROVAL OF MINUTES AGENDA 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Veteran Affairs Regular Meeting of March 19, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion on way ahead to sheperd Recommendation 20250219-006, creation of a veterans affairs office and establishing and veterans resource center, through the budget process. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Discussion and possible vote on reappointments of Veterans Affairs Commission members and Joint Inclusion Committee representatives. 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 Jesus Simental at (512) 974-7742 or jesus.simental@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711.
Regular Called Meeting of the Economic Prosperity Commission Wednesday, April 16, 2025, 6:30pm City Hall, Boards & Commissions Room 1101 301 W. 2nd Street Austin, Texas Some members of the Economic Prosperity 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: Commissioner Christina Ponder Ofelia Zapata Raquel Valdez Sanchez Michael Nahas (Chair) Rodrigo Cantu Shakeel Rashed Appointment District 1 District 2 District 3 District 4 District 5 District 6 Commissioner Zain Pleuthner VACANT Aaron Gonzales Aditi Joshi Laura Dixon AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Appointment District 7 District 8 District 9 District 10 Mayor The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Economic Prosperity Commission Regular Meeting on February 19, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion on the long-term goals and strategic planning of the Economic Prosperity Commission. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Approve a recommendation to City Council for the FY2025-26 budget to increase funding of language access resources for small businesses. 4. Approve recommendations to City Council regarding the FY2025-26 budget as it relates to the Economic Prosperity Commission. 5. Conduct officer elections for Chair and Vice Chair. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 6. Update from the Childcare working group regarding a survey of recent license recipients. 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 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Economic Prosperity Commission, please contact Ryan Sperling at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov.
Economic Prosperity Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 19, 2025 ECONOMIC PROSPERITY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, February 19, 2025 The Economic Prosperity Commission convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at 301 W. 2nd Street, Boards and Commissions Room 1101, in Austin, Texas. Chair Nahas called the Economic Prosperity Commission Meeting to order at 6:31 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance in Person: Michael Nahas (Chair) Amy Rister Raquel Valdez-Sanchez Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Aaron Gonzales Kelsey Hitchingham Amy Noel Ofelia Zapata PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Economic Prosperity Commission Regular Called Meeting on October 19, 2022. The minutes were approved with an amendment to remove “Chair” from before “Kelsey” and insert “Chair” before “Nathan Ryan” on Chair Nahas’ motion, Commissioner Hitchingham’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Zapata was off the dais. Commissioners Cantu, Dixon, and Ponder were absent. Item 1 was taken up after Item 2 without objection. 2. Approve the minutes of the Economic Prosperity Commission regular meeting on January 29, 2025. 1 Economic Prosperity Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 19, 2025 The minutes were approved without objection on Chair Nahas’ motion on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Zapata was off the dais. Commissioners Cantu, Dixon, and Ponder were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion on the long-term goals and strategic planning of the Economic Prosperity Commission. Discussion was held. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. 5. Conduct an emergency election for a Vice Chair of the Economic Prosperity Commission. Commissioner Rister was nominated for the role of Vice Chair by Chair Nahas, second by Commissioner Zapata. Commissioner Rister was elected as Vice Chair on Chair Nahas’ motion, Commissioner Zapata’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Cantu, Dixon, and Ponder were absent. Item 4 was taken up after Item 5 without objection. Discussion and possible action on a recommendation regarding Chapter 380 programs. The below recommendation was approved on Chair Nahas’ motion, Commissioner Rister’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Cantu, Dixon, and Ponder were absent. WHERE AS: Austin City Council recently approved changes to the Chapter 380 Program under Ordinance No. 20240926-013. WHERE AS: The revised Chapter 380 program guidelines indicate that specific goals for program and project metrics will be defined during the rule promulgation and development phase within the first year of implementation. Effectively, pausing the program for one year. WHERE AS: Publishing a temporary scoring …
