BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board Recommendation Number 20250310-07: Improve Conditions for Food System Workers WHEREAS, the Austin City Council passed RESOLUTION NO. 20210610-039, which directed the City Manager to initiate a planning process for an Austin Food Plan in June 2021 to support a more resilient, equitable food system for the City of Austin; and WHEREAS, the Austin/Travis County Food Plan was developed through comprehensive and collaborative community workgroups across five identified issue areas, including 1.) Food Access and Consumption, 2.) Food Markets and Retail, 3.) Food Production, 4.) Post-Consumption and Food Waste, and 5.) Food Processing and Distribution, as well as input from a Community Advisory Committee, Community Food Ambassadors, planning teams across both City and County offices, and broad public engagement; and WHEREAS, the Austin/Travis County Food Plan, approved by the Austin City Council in October 2024, outlines strategic, measurable, ambitious, realistic, time-bound, inclusive, and equitable objectives, goals, and strategies to be accomplished within the next five years to create a more just, accessible, and culturally diverse food system for Austin and Travis County that supports and sustains thriving communities, healthy ecosystems, and solutions to climate change where all individuals can reach their full potential; and WHEREAS, Goal 3 of the Austin/Travis County Food Plan, "Livelihoods," seeks to improve farm worker and food worker livelihoods by ensuring a safety net, defining career pathways, expanding training opportunities, and strengthening opportunities for advancement across the local food system; and WHEREAS, over 65,000 people (7.5% of residents) are employed in the food sector across Travis County, many of whom earn some of the lowest wages in our local economy1, making the implementation of Goal 3 essential to supporting economic stability, worker well-being, and a thriving regional food economy; and WHEREAS, successful implementation of Goal 3 requires specific actions based on the strategies listed in the food plan, including: 1 City of Austin (2022), State of the Food System Report. ● 3.1 Defining criteria for a livable wage in the food service industry using nationally recognized frameworks, paired with business engagement and data analysis to create a regionally appropriate standard; ● 3.2 Conducting regular, culturally appropriate worker surveys and focus groups to assess needs, work environments, and career opportunities to inform responsive policy and program development; ● 3.3 Establishing a commission or working group under the Austin/Travis County Food Policy Board to address food and farm worker rights, including benefits, …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board Recommendation Number 20250310-07: Improve Conditions for Food System Workers WHEREAS, Travis County Commissioners Court passed a Resolution in support of the Austin Travis County Food Plan on October 29th 2024; and WHEREAS, the Austin/Travis County Food Plan was developed through comprehensive and collaborative community workgroups across five identified issue areas, including 1.) Food Access and Consumption, 2.) Food Markets and Retail, 3.) Food Production, 4.) Post-Consumption and Food Waste, and 5.) Food Processing and Distribution, as well as input from a Community Advisory Committee, Community Food Ambassadors, planning teams across both City and County offices, and broad public engagement; and WHEREAS, the Austin/Travis County Food Plan outlines strategic, measurable, ambitious, realistic, time- bound, inclusive, and equitable objectives, goals, and strategies to be accomplished within the next five years to create a more just, accessible, and culturally diverse food system for Austin and Travis County that supports and sustains thriving communities, healthy ecosystems, and solutions to climate change where all individuals can reach their full potential; and WHEREAS, Goal 3 of the Austin/Travis County Food Plan, "Livelihoods," seeks to improve farm worker and food worker livelihoods by ensuring a safety net, defining career pathways, expanding training opportunities, and strengthening opportunities for advancement across the local food system; and WHEREAS, over 65,000 people (7.5% of residents) are employed in the food sector across Travis County, many of whom earn some of the lowest wages in our local economy1, making the implementation of Goal 3 essential to supporting economic stability, worker well-being, and a thriving regional food economy; and WHEREAS, successful implementation of Goal 3 requires specific actions based on the strategies listed in the food plan, including: 1 City of Austin (2022), State of the Food System Report. ● 3.1 Defining criteria for a livable wage in the food service industry using nationally recognized frameworks, paired with business engagement and data analysis to create a regionally appropriate standard; ● 3.2 Conducting regular, culturally appropriate worker surveys and focus groups to assess needs, work environments, and career opportunities to inform responsive policy and program development; ● 3.3 Establishing a commission or working group under the Austin/Travis County Food Policy Board to address food and farm worker rights, including benefits, unfair labor practices, and workplace safety; ● 3.4 Researching and recommending incentives such as tax rebates and wage supplements to support food system employers who provide livable …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board Recommendation Number 20250310-09: Expand Benefits and Access to Nutritious Food WHEREAS, the 2022 City of Austin State of the Food System Report Strategy 6.5 calls for expanded benefits and access to nutritious foods through programs that amplify and supplement the purchasing power of individuals and households facing food and nutrition insecurity and explore the feasibility of creating a locally funded nutrition incentive program with less restrictive eligibility criteria than SNAP/WIC. WHEREAS, food insecurity disproportionately affects vulnerable populations in Austin/Travis County, creating significant barriers to nutritious food access for individuals and households with limited resources; WHEREAS, where value multiplying programs are an effective model of extending purchasing power for nutritious foods, allowing SNAP and WIC recipients to double their spending on fruits and vegetables at local farmers markets and retail locations; WHEREAS, the need for culturally relevant nutrition education and cooking skills training, can empower community members to make healthy, affordable food choices; WHEREAS, current food assistance programs often have restrictive eligibility criteria that exclude many community members experiencing economic hardship; WHEREAS, technological barriers and limited digital literacy can further complicate access to food assistance resources and online food shopping options; WHEREAS, language and disability barriers continue to create additional challenges for individuals seeking food assistance and nutrition support; WHEREAS, there are existing successful local programs that provide valuable frameworks for expanding food access and nutrition education so new programs can and need to be created; WHEREAS, these recommendations align with the city's commitment to the food plan, health, and community support. Further recognizing that according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the UN’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights recognizes access to nutritious food as a fundamental human right; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board recommends the City of Austin expand and enhance nutrition incentive programs, building upon successful value purchasing models to create a locally funded nutrition incentive program with more flexible eligibility criteria that complement existing federal/state/local assistance programs. These efforts could provide additional purchasing power for nutritious foods, particularly fresh produce and local agricultural products and create mechanisms to support both farmers and food-insecure households. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board encourages Austin City Council to provide funding for nutrition education and skill-building initiatives to increase utilization and health among vulnerable populations. BE IT FURTHER …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board Recommendation Number: 20250310-06A: Support for Agricultural Land Acquisition and Preservation in Austin, Texas WHEREAS, the 2022 City of Austin State of the Food System Report indicates that less than 0.6% of the food consumed in Travis County is produced locally, and that approximately 16.8 acres of farmland are lost daily to development pressures, underscoring the critical need for dedicated agricultural land preservation efforts; and WHEREAS, land in Austin-Travis County is continuing to increase in value and decrease in quantity, it is imperative to act quickly as the cost of action will only increase over time; and WHEREAS, agricultural lands are vital to local food security, environmental sustainability, emergency preparedness, and climate resilience; and WHEREAS, the Austin/Travis County Food Plan, approved by the Austin City Council in October 2024, includes strategic, measurable, and time-bound goals and strategies to strengthen food security, promote environmental sustainability, and address climate change; and WHEREAS, the Austin/Travis County Food Plan’s Goal 1 prioritizes expanding community food production, preserving agricultural lands, and increasing the amount of farmland dedicated to regenerative food production long-term in Austin and Travis County; and WHEREAS, Strategy 1.1 of the Food Plan calls for the preservation of land for food production in Central Texas through conservation easements, fee-simple purchases, and land-banking, ensuring that farmland remains dedicated to agricultural use; and WHEREAS, Strategy 1.2 directs the City of Austin and Travis County to pursue capital funding sources to finance the conservation of land for agricultural use through conservation easements or direct purchases; and WHEREAS, preserving agricultural land also supports the goals of the Austin Climate Equity Plan by promoting sustainable land use, strengthening local food systems, and reducing carbon footprints through localized food production; and WHEREAS, Natural Systems Goal 2 of the Austin Climate Equity Plan aims to protect 500,000 acres of farmland across the five-county region through legal conservation or regenerative agriculture programs by 2030; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin currently lacks a dedicated mechanism to effectively manage and prioritize the preservation of agricultural lands; and WHEREAS, there is a lack of coordination among City departments acquiring land for various purposes, such as water quality, flood control, and green space development, undermining the potential to support the City’s food and climate resilience goals, including agricultural production and carbon sequestration; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board encourages the Austin City …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board Recommendation Number: 20250310_6B: Defining and Supporting Regenerative Agriculture WHEREAS, the 2022 City of Austin State of the Food System Report indicates that 21% of all greenhouse gas emissions in our community are related to the food supply chain; and WHEREAS, implementing Regenerative Agriculture supports the goals of the Austin Climate Equity Plan, which aims to ensure that by 2030, 100% of Austinites, especially those who are food insecure, can access a pro-climate, pro-health food systems that prioritize regenerative agriculture; and WHEREAS, the goals and strategies in the Austin/Travis County Food Plan, approved by the Austin City Council in October 2024, prioritize regenerative agriculture implementation, with reference to “regenerative agriculture” and food systems occurring 44 times throughout the document; and WHEREAS, the Austin/Travis County Food Plan states that a specific definition of Regenerative food production may need to be adopted to implement strategies under Goal 1, which pertain to agricultural land use (1.1,1.2) and community food systems support (1.6,1.12); and WHEREAS, a more specific definition is contained within the Resilient Farm Planning framework, which utilizes Conservation Practice Standards codified by the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) and quantifies the resulting greenhouse gas benefits; and WHEREAS, the Resilient Farm Planning process has seen wide adoption and proof of concept in California for over a decade, with 137 Resilient Farm Plans (called Carbon Farm Plans in California) encompassing 71,440 acres; and WHEREAS, the Resilient Farm Planning process can be also be applied to outdoor spaces such as parks, flood plain, and greenbelts; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin Office of Sustainability has previously allocated funds for Texas’ First Resilient Farm plan at the Refugee Collective Farm, written and implemented with technical assistance from National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) and Carbon Cycle Institute (CCI). This establishes a precedent of city support for collaborative plan implementation; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin currently lacks a dedicated mechanism to assist with the writing and implementation of Resilient Farm Plans; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin Food and Climate Equity (FACE) Grant is a current funding mechanism available to farmers that supports a more just and resilient Austin by providing direct funding for community-led solutions that enable transformative change in the areas of food, climate, and resilience; and WHEREAS, the Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board’s Recommendation Number 20240318-7 urged the City of Austin to allocate funds and create …
Austin/Travis County Food Policy Board MEETING MINUTES March 10, 2025 The Austin/Travis County Food Policy Board (ATCFPB) convened on Monday, March 10, at the City of Austin Permitting and Development Center, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Room 1406, Austin, TX 78752. Board Members in Attendance: Andrea Abel, Marissa Bell, Joi Chevalier, Beth Corbett, Nitza Cuevas, Larry Franklin, Hilda Gutierrez, Kacey Hanson, Natalie Poulos, Matt Simon, Andy Smith Board Members Absent: Lisa Barden, Mark Bethell Staff in Attendance: Edwin Marty (City of Austin), Amanda Rohlich (City of Austin), Angela Baucom (City of Austin), Yaira Robinson (Travis County) CALL TO ORDER Chair Joi Chevalier called the meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Board Member Kacey Hanson motioned to approve the meeting minutes from the Regular Meeting on February 10, 2025, with Board Member Andrea Abel, seconding the motion. Minutes passed on an 10-0 vote. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Briefing on Austin-Travis County Food Plan Implementation, Edwin Marty, Food Policy Manager at City of Austin and Yaira Robinson, Assistant Director of Environmental Programs at Travis County (see back-up materials for presentation). DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discuss structure of working groups to align with Board’s overall goals and advocacy efforts. 4. Discuss City of Austin budget engagement process DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discuss and take possible action on appointing a representative and alternate from the Austin Travis County Food Policy Board to serve as a liaison to the Joint Sustainability Committee liaison. a. Kacey Hanson made a motion to have Marissa Bell serve as the alternate to the JSC with Andrea Abel seconding. The motion passed on a 8-0 vote with 6. Discuss and take possible action on the recommendation to support Goal 1 of the Austin Travis County Food Plan: Expand community food production, preserve agricultural lands, and increase the amount of farmland dedicated to regenerative food production long-term in Austin/Travis County, Board Member Marissa Bell (land acquisition) and Board Member Matt Simon (regenerative agriculture). a. Marissa Bell made a motion to pass the land acquisition recommendation with a second from Andy Smith. i. There was a question from Andrea Abel about the $95,000 allocation and that was staff’s recommendation. ii. The board passed the recommendation on a 10-0 vote with Larry Franklin off the dais. Natalie Poulos left the dais at 7:30 pm. b. Andy Smith made a motion to pass the regenerative agriculture recommendation with a …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION March 10, 2025, 6:00 p.m. Austin City Hall, Room 1101 301 West 2nd St Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Animal Advisory 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, contact Christi Vitela at christi.vitela@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-2792. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Ryan Clinton, Chair, Travis County Nancy Nemer, Travis County Lotta Smagula, D1 Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Ann Linder, Vice Chair, D3 Dr. Paige Nilson, D4 Whitney Holt, D5 Luis Herrera, D6 Larry Tucker, D7 Sarah Huddleston, D9 Laura Hoke, Mayor CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA 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 Animal Advisory Commission Regular Meeting on February 10, 2025. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports provided by the Animal Service Center. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation and discussion regarding the development of bond technical criteria and the recent work of the Bond Election Advisory Task Force. Presentation by Jason Garza, Deputy Officer, Animal Services Office. 4. Overview of budget requests made by Animal Services Office and the process for Fiscal Year 2026 budget development. 5. Discussion of targets for the Animal Services Strategic Plan. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Discussion of long distance adoption support at Austin Animal Center and formation of a working group to research, support and encourage the shelter in increasing adoptions by utilizing long distance adoption models. 7. Discussion of Greater Good Charities, Good Fix support and formation of a working group to find ways to improve outcomes. 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. …
ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 10, 2025 The Animal Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on February 10, 2025, at 301 W. 2nd St in Austin, Texas. Chair Clinton called the Animal Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Ryan Clinton, Chair, Travis County Sarah Huddleston, D9 Dr. Paige Nilson, D4 Larry Tucker, D7 Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Ann Linder, Vice Chair, D3 Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Nancy Nemer, Travis County Luis Herrera, D6 Whitney Holt, D5 Commissioners Absent: Laura Hoke, Mayor’s Appointee PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Rochelle Vickery – Dogs Pat Valls-Trelles – Performance Measures APPROVAL OF MINUTES 2025. 1 1. Approve the minutes of the Animal Advisory Commission Regular Meeting on January 13, The motion to approve the minutes from the meeting on January 13, 2025, was approved on Commissioner Nilson’s motion, Commissioner Huddleston’s second, on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Hoke was absent. STAFF BRIEFING DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports provided by the Animal Service Center. The presentation was made by Don Bland, Chief Animal Services Officer, Austin Animal Services. 3. Presentation by Austin Pets Alive! regarding license agreements reports. The presentation was made by Stephanie Bilbro, Austin Pets Alive! Director of Operations. 4. Discussion of the draft Animal Services Strategic Plan. The presentation was made by Susana Carbajal, Assistant City Manager, Audrey Muntz, Budget and Performance Manager, Financial Services Department, Don Bland, Chief Animal Services Officer, Austin Animal Services. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the draft Animal Services Strategic Plan. The motion to amend the Animal Services Office Strategic Plan 2025-2030 with the titled “Proposed Additions to ASO Strategic Plan” was made by Vice Chair Linder, seconded by Commissioner Huddleston. The amendments were as follows: “Spay Neuter (Page 13) • Goal 2: Add language to Strategy A as noted in underlined terms so that sentence is: “Partner with volunteers and organizations that support community cats to identify opportunities to enhance, reduce barriers to, and maximize the impact of trap-neuter-return programs. Goal 1: Add Strategy C as follows: “C. Develop methods to identify and Open Intake (Page 14) • implement policies to prioritize emergency cases and most at-risk animals for immediate intake.” Open Intake (Page 15): • Goal 3: Remove “Get” in title. 2 • Add language to Strategy A as noted in underlined terms so that sentence is: “Review, research, and provide recommendations …
Information is from October 1, 2024– February 28, 2025 Information compiled via ASO Power BI dashboards. Difference of outcomes - intakes Intake Year (fiscal) Outcome Year (fiscal) Dog totals Cat totals Totals Dog totals Cat totals Totals Dog totals Cat totals Totals Cats Adoption Transfer Euthanasia Died Missing Total Dog Adoption Transfer Euthanasia Died Missing Total RTO/RTO Adopt SNR (former SCRP) RTO/RTO Adopt 2025 2129 2024 4153 2025 2059 2206 4265 2025 -70 182 112 2025 1595 78 274 67 32 2 158 2206 2025 1328 290 369 63 9 0 2059
February 2025 AUSTIN ANIMAL SERVICES REPORT 1 Austin Animal Center clinic, and 1 at TLAC). clinic, and 4 at TLAC). Animal Protection Rescue. positive bat. Wildlife • The live outcome rate for February was 95.81%. • A total of 846 animals were brought to the shelter which included 476 dogs, 331 cats, 20 wild animals, 10 rabbits, 4 betta fish, one guinea pig, and one rat. • A total of 526 animals were adopted (140 adult dogs, 154 puppies, 112 kittens, and 120 adult cats). • A total of 75 dogs and cats were returned to their owners (RTOs and RTO-Adopt). • On February 1, there were 745 dogs and cats within the ASO inventory (460 onsite, 280 in foster, 2 at a vet • On March 1, there were 770 dogs and cats within the ASO inventory (479 onsite, 285 in foster, 2 at a vet • Animal Protection Officers (APOs) made contact with the public 2,234 times in the month of February. • Animal Protection Officers (APOs) returned 29 animals to their owners in the field. • Officers handed out 19 fencing assistance applications and implanted 4 microchip(s). • Officers impounded 89 injured animals and delivered approximately 62 wildlife animals to Austin Wildlife • Officers entered 197 rabies exposure reports and submitted 20 specimens for rabies testing. We had 1 • There were 38 total coyote related activities (Behavior types include Sighting, Encounter, Incident, and Observation. “Observation” is defined as hearing coyotes howling and finding scat or footprints.) o 22 sightings, 7 wild sick, 2 incidents, 3 observations, 1 encounters, 1 wild injured, and 2 wild speak • Out of 38 coyote related activities, 28 (74%) reports fell within the reported behavior types (sighting, encounter, incident, and observation) o Encounters: Pets were a factor in 1/1 (100%) of encounters reported. 1/1 encounters (100%) involved a coyote chasing an owned outside cat in a fenced o Incidents: Pets were a factor in 2/2 (100%) of incidents reported. 1/2 incidents (50%) involved a coyote possibly injuring a pet. Unable to contact the 1/2 incidents (50%) involved a coyote injuring a person’s dog and caller backyard. caller for more information witnessed incident. • Out of 38 coyote related reports, 12 (32%) reports were updated to the correct behavior types. o 2 sightings updated to wild sick (due to mange) o Residents are mistaking coyotes with mange for dogs …
Animal Services Budget Animal Services Office Budget Asks and Appropriations March 10th, 2025 Presented by: Don Bland 1 Operating Budget Operating Budget Expenditure by Program Animal Services Support Services Transfers, Debt Service, and other Requirements 2022-23 Actual 2023-24 Estimate 2023-24 Amended 2024-25 Approved 13,176,253 15,056,502 15,149,003 16,010,710 1,492,425 3,431,484 1,544,174 4,161,880 1,751,149 4,161,880 2,036,181 5,419,387 Total by Program Revenue from General Fund 15,957,928 18,684,168 19,064,818 21,225,540 21,062,032 20,762,556 18,100,163 23,466,278 Revenue from Fees/ILA 2,142,235 2,078,388 1,997,204 2,240,738 Total Revenue Civilian FTEs 18,100,163 20,762,556 21,062,032 23,466,278 121.00 126.00 126.00 128.50 2 Animal Services Operating Budget Expense Categories Provides an array of animal protection, animal sheltering, rabies prevention, and pet owner services. Expense Category 2022-23 Actual 2023-24 Estimate 2023-24 Amended 2024-25 Approved Animal Services Personnel Contractuals Commodities Expense Refunds Non-CIP Capital Total Program Revenue Civilian FTEs 9,516,023 2,708,860 1,259,272 (307,902) 0 9,798,286 10,269,387 10,740,720 3,506,162 1,913,827 (161,773) 0 3,687,002 1,352,387 (161,773) 2,000 3,669,603 1,652,387 (54,000) 2,000 13,176,253 15,056,502 15,149,003 16,010,710 112 116 116 118.50 3 Support Services Operating Budget Expense Categories Provides administrative and managerial support to the Department. Expense Category 2022-23 Actual 2023-24 Estimate 2023-24 Amended 2024-25 Approved Support Services Personnel Contractuals Commodities Expense Refunds Non-CIP Capital Total Program Personnel Civilian FTEs 1,011,592 1,025,083 1,272,932 1,435,573 357,032 90,404 (189) 33,587 465,819 53,522 (250) 0 406,125 72,342 (250) 0 530,608 70,250 (250) 0 1,492,425 1,544,174 1,751,149 2,036,181 9.00 10.00 10.00 10.00 4 Transfers, Debt Service, and Other Requirements Operating Budget Expense Categories comprises Primarily other departmental requirements at the fund or agency level. transfers and Expense Category 2022-23 Actual 2023-24 Estimate 2023-24 Amended 2024-25 Approved T.DS.OR Services Personnel Contractuals Transfers Total Program 31,445 662,447 662,447 905,737 3,398,842 3,499,433 3,499,433 4,513,650 1,197 0 0 0 3,431,484 4,161,880 4,161,880 5,419,387 5 5 2 0 2 - 4 2 0 2 s e g n a h C t n a c i f i n g i S 6 Requested for Animal Services Expense Category $2,932,551.00 To t a l E st i m a t ed Co s t o f U n me t N e e d s $2,932,551.00 $2,119,898.00 (Recurring FTE costs) $812,653.00 (One-time costs) Job Title Vehicles Laptops Animal Protection Officer 11 Vehicles ($65,423/each) 31 units ($3,000/each) Total(s) $812,653 Department/Position # of positions Grand Total Animal Protection 11.5 $951,899 Vet Services Coordinator, Rescue/Foster Animal Care Total(s) 10 2.5 6 30 $766,263 $207,704 $430,547 $2,356,413 Approved for Animal Services Expense …
ANIMAL SERVICES OFFICE STRATEGIC PLAN 2025-2030 DRAFT SUBJECT TO FURTHER REVIEW AND REVISION BY CITY MANAGEMENT AND AUSTIN CITY COUNCIL. MARCH 5, 2025 DRAFT. TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 Introduction .............................................................................................2-4 Message from the Chief Animal Services Officer ...........................................5 Strategic Planning Background & Overview .............................................6-9 ASO Strategic Plan 2025-2030 ..............................................................10-21 Humane Care................................................................................10-12 Spay Neuter.......................................................................................13 Open Intake...................................................................................14-15 Live Release..................................................................................16-17 Public Health & Safety...................................................................18-19 Staff & Volunteers .......................................................................20-21 Acknowledgements..............................................................................22 Appendix..........................................................................................23-32 Measuring Success......................................................................23-30 Glossary..............................................................................31-32 2 INT RO DUCT IO N ABOUT THE AUSTIN ANIMAL SERVICES OFFICE The City of Austin Animal Services Office (ASO) operates the Austin Animal Center, the municipal shelter for the city of Austin and unincorporated Travis County, one of the largest no-kill shelters in the nation. Throughout the year, the Austin Animal Center is a temporary home for thousands of pets, working to place all adoptable pets in homes. Animal Services emphasizes a prevention based, educational approach by enforcing animal- related ordinances and by connecting residents with resources to care for animals in the community. WHAT IS THE ASO STRATEGIC PLAN? The ASO Strategic Plan provides a clear and actionable framework to guide the organization’s efforts in achieving its goals and realizing its vision over the next five years. ASO staff and City of Austin leadership will use this plan to: Establish a roadmap for departmental initiatives Guide operational, resource allocation, and budgeting decisions Track and evaluate progress toward goals and performance targets Communicate ASO’s vision and priorities to stakeholders Identify opportunities to collaborate with stakeholders to advance ASO’s goals and vision INT RO DUCTION 3 COMPONENTS OF THE ASO STRATEGIC PLAN THE ASO STRATEGIC PLAN INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING COMPONENTS: VISION: A shared idea of what the community will experience when ASO implements this plan. MISSION: The core purpose and role ASO serves in supporting the community and achieving its vision. ASO’s mission was not updated as part of this process. FOCUS AREAS: This plan has six focus areas representing ASO’s high-level priorities. These foundational elements guide ASO in advancing its mission and achieving its vision. DESCRIPTION: A brief overview of each focus area. GOALS: Each focus area has three to four goals. Goals are the specific end- results that ASO envisions, plans, and commits to achieve. STRATEGIES: Each goal has several strategies. These are the actionable plans or methods that ASO will take to achieve its goals. MEASURES: Each goal has associated measures which can be found in the …
Animal Services Office Bond Development Status Jason Garza Deputy Chief Animal Services Officer March 10, 2025 1 City of Austin Animal Services Office Bond Funding History COA Bond Election Needs Assessment for Town Lake Animal Center, 2005-2006 COA Bond Election Advisory Committee: Report and Recommendation, 2006 Health & Human Services Animal Shelter - $12,065,000 • Cost estimate to build replacement for Town Lake Animal Shelter on HHSD Campus Includes 34,000 SF of enclosed space Includes 28,000 SF of kennel space • • • O&M Impact - $307,000 • O&M FTEs - 8 2 City of Austin Animal Services Office Guiding Principles Community Trust and Relationships Social Equity Innovation Affordability Proactive Prevention Sustainability and Resiliency 3 Bond Program Guiding Principles • Equity • Affordability • Innovation • Sustainability and Resiliency • Proactive Prevention • Customer Trust and Relationships Technical Criteria Development • Equity – ensure that services provided from project is accessible to all. • Affordability – the services provided by the project does not create a hardship for future pet owners. • Innovation – the project will advance animal welfare in Austin. • Sustainability and Resiliency – Project will help reduce carbon footprint for the organization but also to residents of Austin. • Proactive Prevention – the project will affect pets in a positive aspect, as well as have a positive impact on overall shelter operations. • Customer Trust and Relationships – the projects will increase public trust and relationships that may be strained due to current gaps in service. Animal Services Office – Technical Criteria • ASO developed the following as technical criteria: • Enhanced services for residents • Improvement to ASO operations • Promotes safety and wellbeing to humans • Promotes enhanced animal welfare • Each criteria is scored based on how the project relates to the guiding principles • All projects may score a maximum of 100 points Animal Services Office – Scoring Matrix • ASO’s numerical breakdown in relation to the guiding principles • Equity – 10 points • Affordability – 15 points • Innovation – 10 points • Sustainability and Resiliency – 5 points • Proactive Prevention – 30 points • Customer Trust and Relationships – 30 points Next steps scoring matrix • Brief Bond Election Advisory Task Force on technical criteria and • Develop projects for consideration • Determine if there is alignment or overlap with other departments • Present recommendations to City Manager’s …
ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MARCH 10, 2025 The Animal Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on March 10, 2025, at 301 W. 2nd St in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Linder called the Animal Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Ann Linder, Vice Chair, D3 Dr. Paige Nilson, D4 Lotta Smagula, D1 Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Laura Hoke, Mayor’s Appointee Nancy Nemer, Travis County Whitney Holt, D5 Larry Tucker, D7 Commissioners Absent: Ryan Clinton, Chair, Travis County Luis Herrera, D6 PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Kaitlyn Banis – Adoption policy proposal Sandra Muller – Adoption fees Pat Valls-Trelles – Process issues Laura Ransan Nesmith – Recurrent issues with rules and need for clear manual 1 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Animal Advisory Commission Regular Meeting on February 10, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes from the meeting on February 10, 2025, was approved on Commissioner Nilson’s motion, Commissioner Smagula’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Hoke abstained. Chair Clinton and Commissioner Herrera were absent. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports provided by the Animal Service Center. The presentation was made by Jason Garza, Deputy Officer, Austin Animal Services. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation and discussion regarding the development of bond technical criteria and the recent work of the Bond Election Advisory Task Force. Presentation by Jason Garza, Deputy Officer, Animal Services Office. The presentation was made by Jason Garza, Deputy Officer, Animal Services Office. 4. Overview of budget requests made by Animal Services Office and the process for Fiscal Year 2026 budget development. The presentation was made by Jason Garza, Deputy Officer, Animal Services Office. 5. Discussion of targets for the Animal Services Strategic Plan. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Discussion of long distance adoption support at Austin Animal Center and formation of a working group to research, support and encourage the shelter in increasing adoptions by utilizing long distance adoption models. The motion to form a working group to research, support and encourage the shelter in increasing adoptions by utilizing long distance adoption models was approved on Commissioner Holt’s motion, Commissioner Hoke’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Chair Clinton and Commissioner Herrera were absent. Commissioners Hoke and Holt were added to the working group without objection. 7. Discussion of Greater Good Charities, Good Fix support and formation of a working group to find ways …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Friday, March 7, 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 Jennifer Powell Pete Salazar 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 February 7, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 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. Discussion of micromobility and obstruction of sidewalks. Discussion of upcoming changes to the fare system at CapMetro. Discussion of bringing awareness to 2025 disability events in the Austin area. Discussion of the City of Austin budget process, Fiscal Year 2024-2025 budget recommendations and of proposed budget recommendations for Fiscal Year 2025- 2026. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Formation of a Working Group to research and write Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget recommendations. Discussion of ways the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities can work with and advise the City of Austin Human Resources Department and formation of a Working Group to develop a training on City Code Chapter 5-6. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 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 …
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Friday, February 7, 2025 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Friday, February 7, 2025 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular called meeting on Friday, February 7, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St Austin, Texas. Commissioner Kelly called the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Meeting to order at 5:48 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Gabriel Arellano Conor Kelly Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Lisa Chang Mickey Fetonte Jennifer Powell Pete Salazar PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Melanie Babbitt – IDD need for higher caregiver rates. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting on December 13, 2024. The minutes from the meeting on December 13, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Salazar’s motion, Commissioner Kelly’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Chair Meyer, Vice Chair Franks, and Commissioner Vassallo were absent. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding the City of Austin emergency language access plan from the Communications and Public Information Office and the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Friday, February 7, 2025 The presentation was made by Marion Sanchez, Community Engagement Manager, Communications and Public Information Office, David Wiechmann, Acting Public Information and Marketing Program Manager, Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and David Alcorta, Community Engagement Specialist, Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of the Equity Office’s Undoing Institutional Racism Training, including the feasibility of attendance and accessibility considerations. The presentation was made by Angelica Benton-Molina, Equity and Inclusion Program Manager, Equity Office. 4. Discussion of bringing awareness to 2025 disability events in the Austin area. Discussed. 5. Discussion of scooters impeding the walkways on sidewalks. The presentation was made by Eli Davis, Lime. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion of ways the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities can work with and advise the City of Austin Human Resources Department and formation of a Working Group to develop a training on City Code Chapter 5-6. Discussion of the City of Austin Budget process and formation of a Working Group to research and write budget recommendations. 6. 7. Postponed. Postponed. None. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS A motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:10 pm was approved on Commissioner Salazar’s motion Commissioner Chang’s second on a 6-0 vote. Chair Meyer, Vice Chair Franks, and Commissioner Vassallo …
Discussion on community needs and spending priorities for the FY 25-26 Action Plan for federal grants. Agenda Funding and Engagement Cycle Background Federal Grants Overview FY23-24 Goals, Outcomes & Impact FY25-26 Priorities How do we fund our programs? HUD Annual Entitlement Grants Housing Trust Fund Approved City Bonds City Operating Budget Project Connect Anti-Displacement Funds CARES Act 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 4 2024 Community Needs Assessment Feedback immediate help stability trust building wealth access 5 2024 Community Needs Assessment Feedback from Boards & Commissions Mayor's Committee on People with Disabilities 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 committee members wanted to see more data on people with disabilities and expressed frustration in not being able to find the information anywhere. They encouraged staff to work more directly with the City demographer to understand the needs of this specific demographic and to track how many people applying for programs identified as having a disability. Committee members had questions about home repair programs and fees associated with the repairs if the homeowner passes away. They were curious about how the budget fluctuates depending on needs and what dollars are protected when budgetary priorities change. Committee members asked about the requirements of development partners, including how long the affordability of properties will remain and what terms developers agree to for accessibility. Our Response HUD Funding Sources 8 Programs & Activities Overview FY 23-24 9 Goals & Outcomes FY 23-24 10 Who Did We Serve? Fiscal Year 22-23 Snapshot 1,856 # households served FY 23-24 …
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. 5. 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. 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 …
REFULAR MEETING of the COLLEGE STUDENT COMMISSION March 7th, 2025, AT 3:00 PM AUSTIN CITY HALL, Board and Commission Room 1101 301 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701 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 their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register please contact Dr. Chiquita Eugene by email at chiquita.eugene@austintexas.gov or by phone at 512- 972-5003. Some members of the commission may be participating by videoconference. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Mariama Mbacke, Austin Community College Carson Domey, University of Texas at Austin Halle Kocian, University of Texas at Austin Mariana Ponce, University of Texas at Austin CALL TO ORDER Caleb Brizuela, Huston-Tillotson University Dominic Polidor, Huston-Tillotson University Prisca Dhital, Huston-Tillotson University Charlie Mossberger, St. Edward’s University Jake Hamerslough, St. Edward’s University 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 Approve the minutes of the College Student Commission Regular Meeting from January 31, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Update from staff on the status of new commissioners Discussion on attaining a pedestrian crosswalk near Huston-Tillotson University. Discussion on the status of food pantries on all campuses. 1. 1. 2. 3. WORKING GROUP UPDATES Update from TRANSPORTATION working group on priority issues for the spring Update from MENTAL HEALTH working group on priority issues for the spring Update from BANNED BOOKS working group on resolution draft. 4. 5. 6. 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 Chiquita Eugene at the Youth Initiatives Office, at (512-972-5003), for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the College Student Commission, please contact Chiquita Eugene at (512-972-5003).
COLLEGE STUDENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 7, MARCH, 2025 The College Student Commission convened in a regular meeting on 7, March 2025 at 301 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701 in Austin, Texas. Chair Charlie Mossberger called the College Student Commission Meeting to order at 3:15 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Charlie Mossberger, Carson Domey Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely:, Dominic Polidor, Halle Kocian, Jacob Hamerslough, Mariama Mbacke, Caleb Brizuela, Mariana Ponce PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Community member Betsy presented on the University Neighborhood Overlay (UNO) proposed updates. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. The motion to approve the minutes of the College Student Commission Regular Meeting on January 31th, 2025, was approved on Carson Domey’s motion, Halle Kocian’s second on an 8-0 vote. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. None DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. None PUBLIC HEARINGS None 4. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Staff Liaison Abrianna Citta gave updates on the status of incoming commissioners. 1 WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 6. Update from TRANSPORTATION WORKING GROUP. The Transportation Working Group established a meeting time. 7. 8. Update was given by Jacob Hamerslough. Update from MENTAL HEALTH WORKING GROUP. The Mental Health Working Group established a meeting time. Update was given by Halle Kocian. Update from BANNED BOOKS WORKING GROUP. The Banned Books Working Group has drafted a potential resolution. Members are still coordinating a meeting with the Austin Public Library department to learn more about current banned books initiatives. Update was given by Charlie Mossberger. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 9. None Chair Charlie Mossberger adjourned the meeting at 3:59 p.m. without objection. The minutes were approved at the April 4th, 2025, meeting on Carson Domey’s motion, Andrew Lyons’ second on a 8-0 vote. 2
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING SMALL AREA PLANNING JOINT COMMITTEE Wednesday, March 5, 2025 11:30 AM Permitting and Development Center (PDC), Rm. 2004 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the Small Area Plan Joint Committee may be participating by video conference. 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 their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register, call or email the board liaisons at 512- 974-8033 or chad.sharrard@austintexas.gov / romina.tafazzoli@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Nadia Barrera-Ramirez William D. Floyd, Chair Betsy Greenberg, Vice Chair Vacant Vacant Ryan Puzycki Danielle Skidmore (Planning Commission) (Zoning and Platting Commission) (Zoning and Platting Commission) (Planning Commission) (Planning Commission) (Zoning and Platting Commission) (Planning Commission) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 3 speakers who sign up by noon (12:00 PM) the day before the meeting, being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Small Area Planning Joint Committee meeting on February 5, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 1 2. Staff briefing regarding the North Lamar Transit Center and South Congress Transit Center Station Area Vision Plans and related recommendations. City of Austin Planning Department Staff: Ana Villarreal, Ana.Villarreal@austintexas.gov. 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 Mark Walters at the Housing and Planning Department, at 512-974-7695, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Small Area Planning Joint Committee, please contact the liaison, Shanisha Johnson at 512-974-3458, shanisha.johnson@austintexas.gov; or Donna Arwood at 512-974-3440, donna.arwood@austintexas.gov. 2
REGULAR MEETING of the EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER ADVISORY BOARD Wednesday, March 5, 2025, 6:00 PM City Hall – Boards and Commissions Room 301 W. Second St. Austin, TX 78701 Some members of the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Advisory Board 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 their comments. To speak in person, registration is required at least 10 min prior to the start of the meeting. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register call or email the board liaison at 512-974-3771 or michelle.rojas@austintexas.gov BOARD MEMBERS Angelica Navarro, Chair (D-8) Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz, Vice Chair (Mayor) Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Member (D-10) Noemi Castro, Member (D-2) John Estrada, Member (D-3) Gerardo Gandy, Member (D-7) Vacant, Member (D-9) Cynthia “Cy” Herrera, Member (D-5) Mónica Siañez, Member (D-6) Anthony Martinez, Member (D-4) Raul “Roy” Reyna, Member (D-1) 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 (3) three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Regular Meeting of February 5, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on the new Office of Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment, February Education and Holistic Wellness programs, marketing and outreach efforts, and updates on La Mujer: A Celebration of Women event planning. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Marjorie Flanagan, Division Manager and ESB-MACC Staff DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Update on the ESB-MACC Phase 2 Construction Project. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager 4. Update by Laura Esparza, Executive Director of A3 Art Alliance Austin, on efforts to provide a donation to the ESB-MACC Caminos program and an upcoming collaboration with ESB-MACC called Fiesta Reclamada, May 4th at The Cathedral. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Laura Esparza, Executive Director of A3 Art Alliance Austin DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Presentation and recommendation by Dr. Angela Valenzuela requesting financial support for Academia Cuauhtli programming for fiscal year 25-26 budget. (Sponsors: Martinez, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Dr. Angela Valenzuela, Professor at The University of …
EMMA S. BARRIENROS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER REGULAR MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2025 The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at City Hall – Board and Commissions Room located at 301 West Second Street in Austin, Texas 78701. (Some members of the ESB-MACC Advisory Board participated via videoconference.) Chair Navarro called the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Meeting to order at 6:02pm. Board Members in Attendance: Board Members Absent: Angelica Navarro, Chair Gerardo Gandy, Member Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz, Vice Chair Raul “Roy” Reyna, Member Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Member Noemi Castro, Member John Estrada, Member Mónica Siañez, Member Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Cynthia “Cy” Herrera, Member Anthony Martinez, Member (Arrived at 6:15pm/Left at 7:12pm) Staff in Attendance: Marjorie Flanagan, PARD Division Manager of Museums and Cultural Programs Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager Marie Ortiz, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Supervisor Tina Davila, ESB-MACC Administrative Specialist PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Chair Navarro took a moment to introduce commissioner Mónica Siañez and asked her to share a little about herself and why she joined the ESB-MACC Advisory board. Member Siañez let the board know she was an assistant professor for the University of Texas at Austin Public Health Program. She mentioned the work she did in public health was about empowering and encouraging students to get involved with their communities. Taking that into account, she shared that she had only lived in Austin for 5 years and hadn’t had a chance to get involved with her local community, so she felt it was important for her to be involved in some capacity and decided to join the board. 1 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. The minutes from the Regular meeting of January 8, 2025, were approved on Member Castro’s motion. Vice Chair Zamarripa-Saenz seconded. Unanimous vote (7.0). Motion passed. Members Gandy, Martinez, and Reyna absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on staffing updates, December and January programs, marketing and outreach efforts, and updates on signature event planning. Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager provided an update on the Holistic Wellness programs Will Clinic event that was held at Hardie Alcozer Law Firm where the goal was to help community members create basic wills, ensuring their wishes were legally documented and their families are protected. The program was created to help individuals gain peace of mind …
3.5.25 MACC Staff Report – Website - Facebook - Instagram Please share our social media posts, sign up for our newsletter, and check out our upcoming events! Holistic Wellness Programming Past: All-Levels Yoga: Saturdays @ 10:30-11:30am Southeast Library. Attendance: 50 Focuses on body awareness, connection with the breath, with gentle movement, and time for meditation and relaxation. The library has mats to share. Chair Yoga: 3rd Wed of each month @ 10am Dove Springs Recreation Center. Attendance:5 A gentle form of yoga that can be done seated in a chair. These modifications make yoga accessible to people with various physical abilities. Chair Yoga: Friday, Feb 21 @ 10:30am Yarborough Library. Attendance:8 A gentle form of yoga that can be done seated in a chair. These modifications make yoga accessible to people with various physical abilities. Slow Flow + Sound Healing: 4th Sat of each month @ 1:30-2:30pm My Vinyasa Practice- Highland Studio. Attendance: 3 Join us for a serene and rejuvenating yoga experience that combines gentle yoga poses, breathing techniques, and guided relaxation with sound healing bowls to help calm the mind. Taller Abierto: Painting Workshop (15+): 4th Sat of each month @ 2-4pm North Village Branch Library. Attendance:13 Art classes for all levels. Includes exploration of different techniques. All materials provided! Pre- registration required. Nourishing Flow: 1st Sat of each month @ 1:30-2:30pm My Vinyasa Practice- SoCo Studio. Attendance:3 A gentle and restorative yoga class that invites you to reconnect with your body and breath. Through mindful movement, soothing breathwork, and the healing power of sound, we’ll cultivate a deep sense of relaxation Guitar Lessons (15+): Tuesdays, starting January 28 @ 3-4:15 George Washington Carver Museum. Beg: 3-3:30pm / Inter: 3:45-4:15pm. Attendance: 27 Join accomplished musician Mauricio Callejas for guitar lessons for beginners (finger placement, strumming, sight-reading) and intermediate (chord progressions, ear training, reading sheet music) students. Please bring your guitar. Voice/Guitar/Songwriting Lessons Beg/Inter (15+): Mondays, starting Jan. 27 @ 4-5pm Windsor Park Library. Attendance: 22 Join award winning song-writer Javier Jara for voice, guitar and songwriting lessons. Skills addressed: left and right hand technique, chords, arpeggios, strumming patterns, vocal technique, and songwriting approaches. Please bring your own guitar. Taller Abierto: Lending Library Painting (18+): Tuesdays, Jan 14 -Feb 18 @ 9-11am. Dove Springs Recreation Center. Attendance: 21 Art classes for all levels. Includes exploration of different techniques. All materials provided! Pre-registration required. Drumming Lessons: 4th Sat of each …
Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Phase 2 Improvements Project Update March 5, 2025 Heidi Tse, Capital Delivery Project Manager PROJECT TIMELINE: ESB MACC Groundbreaking for Phase 2 Improvements / Move-Out Began– 12/10/22. • • Parking Lot Closure – 3/10/23. • Contractor Mobilization/Pre-construction Inspections – Began 3/11/23. • Permitting (Site) – Approved on 7/25/23. • Bidding & Negotiation (GMP1/Site) – Executed contract on 8/28/23. • Construction (Site) – Underway since 8/28/23. • Permitting (Building) – Approved on 3/4/24. • Bidding & Negotiation (GMP2/Building) – Executed contract on 3/7/24. • Construction (Site + Building) – Currently underway. • AIPP ESB-MACC Phase 2 – Artist(s) selection approval by Austin City Council on 8/29/24 • • Building dry-in – Process of ensuring the building envelope is weather sealed is expected March. Topping Out – Topmost structural beam was lifted into place on 9/11/24. • The below freezing temperatures and wet days have slowed outdoor work in February. CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS: • Site retaining walls at Zocalo are 85% complete. • Brick installation is ongoing at the north addition. • New elevator has been delivered and installation is in progress. • Exterior stairs and handrailing’s are being welded in place. • Installation of major mechanical equipment is 60% complete. • Window installation is underway. • Tape & float of interior drywall continues. • Re-roof of the auditorium will resume with dry weather forecast. Site Tour: The City of Austin invites the MACC Advisory Board to a construction tour on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at 4:00 pm to witness the progress firsthand. The building is projected to be completely enclosed. The site is still very active but the City wants to offer this last opportunity for a tour to show how the building and grounds have transformed from a vision to a reality. Additional Enhancements to Phase 2: In response to the MACC Advisory Board question on returning the value engineered items from Phase 2 as referenced in the memo from PARD to the MACC Advisory Board dated 1/5/24, the City believes many of the these construction related items should be grouped into a new capital improvement project. The current goal is to complete the existing construction requirements and transitioning the center back to the City within budget and the target delivery of Fall 2025. Items which can be installed after construction such as acoustical panels, TV monitors, and displays could be added if new …
L A U R A E S P A R Z A E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R W H AT I S A 3 ? - A non-profit Local Arts Agency devoted to supporting artists, musicians, performers and arts contractors who make Austin a vibrant city by raising money and raising awareness. - An all-volunteer organization of business and arts professionals who believe that the arts are integral to our quality of life. - A catalyst for community change in collaboration with others who are committed to the value of the arts. WHAT IS A LOCAL ARTS AGENCY? • The nation’s 4,500 Local Arts Agencies (LAAs) promote, support, and develop the arts at the local level ensuring a vital presence for the arts throughout America’s communities. LAAs are diverse in their makeup—they have many different names and embrace a spectrum of artistic disciplines. But each LAA, in its own way, works to sustain the health and vitality of the arts and artists locally, while also striving to make the arts accessible to all members of a community. • The Cultural Arts Division is a Local Arts Agency but cities can have more than one thus diversifying the funding pool. • Americans for the Arts tells us that the Arts strengthen the economy and community cohesiveness. WHO IS A3? PA S T • The Texas Fine Arts Association started in 1911 at the Elisabet Ney Museum. In 1950 it fundraised for Laguna Gloria Museum with an Arts and Crafts Festival. In 1956 they renamed their festival FIESTA, in an inappropriate act of cultural appropriation. In 1989 the organization became Art Alliance Austin and produced Art City Austin. It went dormant in 2020 due to COVID-19 pandemic. • Relaunched in September 2024 as an LAA. • • • • P R E S E N T • Austin’s first non-profit Local Arts Agency with a diverse board including: • Board Chair Eric Hiduke, Attorney-at-Law • Vice-Chair Kevin Ivester, Gallery Owner • Treasurer Imani Aanu, Director RECLAIM! • David Goujon, Architect • Andrea Hyland, Event Producer • Kayo Asazu, Restaurant owner/operator • Advisors: Constance White (Airport Arts & Music) Lourdes Rodriguez (ED David Rockefeller Fund) Lydia Galvan (Teacher) Dana Friis-Hansen (Retired Museum Director) HOW CAN A3 FUND CITY FACILITIES? • City staff and Commissioners cannot solicit funds from individuals, businesses or …
EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER ADVISORY BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20250305- Date: March 5, 2025 Subject: FY2026 Budget Recommendations Motioned By: Recommendation The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Advisory Board (MACC) recommends the City Council direct the City Manager to take the following actions and to allocate additional funds for the following items for FY 2026. These recommendations include actions that can be taken immediately outside the budget process and recommendations for the FY 2026 budget: Description of Recommendation to Council 1. Allocate funding for items that were removed from the MACC’s Phase 2 project for a total amount between $2.2 and $2.4 in the FY26 budget. Seconded By: Rationale: Phase 2 Operating Budget In 2018 a comprehensive community engagement was completed as part of the Facility Expansion Plan which included community members and Austin City Council members. The Austin City Council unanimously voted to adopt the 2018 Facility Expansion Plan on May 24, 2018, with the intent to complete all remaining phases without preconditions on funding sources. The 2018 Bond Committee recommended, and Austin City Council approved $27 million to be included under Proposition B for the ESB-MACC Phase 2 project. 74 percent of voters in the 2018 election voted in favor of Proposition B. The Joint Venture team of Miro Rivera Architects (Austin) and Estudio Tatiana Bilbao (Mexico City) was selected to lead the Phase 2 design in part because of their experience designing world-class facilities. The project team has been diligently working on completing the project slated for completion in the Fall of 2025. The Mexican American Cultural Center Advisory Board recommends to the Austin City Council to allocate the necessary amount needed to complete the items as were presented during community engagement to fulfill the commitment by the City of Austin to complete a Phase 2 expansion and renovation that is commensurate with a world-class cultural center that continues to be a reflection of the strength and resiliency of Austin’s Mexican American community. 1 of 2 Vote For: Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: Michelle Rojas, Staff Liaison 2 of 2
Fiscal Year 2025 - 2026 Budget Recommendation Academia Cuauhtli seeks support for its FY 2025-2026 budget recommendation aimed at serving predominantly indigenous, Hispanic, Spanish-speaking youth in Austin. We are requesting on-going funding for culturally and linguistically diverse programs with an annual allocation of $105,930.00. Below is a concise outline of our minimal operating costs derived from the fiscal year 2023-2024, along with a proposal for additional funds to initiate our programmatic expansion. Detailed program descriptions, budgets, and material costs can be found on the following pages. Minimal Operational Costs ❖ Academia Cuauhtli (Eagle Academy) - Saturday Arts Program $37,750 ❖ Parent Support Program ❖ Bilingual Summer Program/ La Colaborativa Cuauhtli ❖ Teacher Conference Fund ❖ Teacher Professional Development Total Fund Request Amount $105,930 $13,300 $43,380 $10,000 $1,500 $105,930 Fiscal Year 2025 - 2026 Budget Recommendation Our Minimal Necessary Operating Costs ensure the seamless continuation of our programs by covering essential expenses, including operational costs and staffing. This foundational support sustains the quality and impact of our initiatives. The detailed budget breakdown encompasses four key components: Saturday Academy, Parent Support Program, Bilingual Summer Camp, and Teacher Professional Development funds, each playing a vital role in serving our community and fulfilling our mission. Minimum Necessary Operational Costs (106K) Saturday Academy (37.8K): A bilingual and cultural revitalization program offers instruction in Mexican American Studies and STEM curriculum for third to fifth grade students attending AISD. We focus on creating alternative learning spaces with focuses on social emotional learning and culturally responsive education. The program runs throughout the school year, spanning 20 weeks and serving approximately 50 youth participants. Program Costs: (37.8K) ● Staff (26.2K) ○ (13.2K) - 3 Activity Specialists for Saturday school ■ $4,400 - $22p/hr, 10 hours per week , 20 weeks ■ $13,200 total per school year ○ (2.2K) - Professional Instructor I - Danza Teacher ■ ~$2,170 - $31 p/hr, 10 hours per week, 7 weeks ○ (7K) - Fall Program Support Specialist ■ $7,020 total per fall semester: 27 p/hr, 20 hrs per week, 13 weeks total ○ (3.8K) - Spring Program Support Specialist ■ $3,780 total per fall semester: 27 p/hr, 20 hrs per week, 7 weeks total ● Food (8K) ○ (5K) - Breakfast Tacos/Prepared Foods ○ (3K) - Store bought breakfast items, sack lunches, snacks, etc. ● Materials: (1.7K) - art supplies, danza supplies, graduation items ○ (1K) - Art supplies ○ ($500) - Danza …
Bilingual cultural revitalization program for third to fifth grade students attending AISD. Vision A future where children live with a thinking heart and the courage to pursue their aspirations within liberating and sacred learning spaces. Mission Honor our community’s cultural heritage Foster a social justice consciousness Reclaim our collective identities in pursuit of educational freedom The Purpose Despite a predominantly Indigenous, Hispanic, and Spanish-speaking youth population in Texas, the lack of culturally relevant education limits self-expression, academic success, and a sense of belonging. Initiatives Throughout the years Nuestro Grupo has established various partnerships and initiatives within the community with key focuses on students, teachers, parents, and community members. Academia Cuauhtli Parent Support Program STEM/Aztech Kidz Code Teacher Development Academia Cuauhtli The Bilingual Cultural Revitalization Saturday Academy offers ethnic studies and Danza Mexica instruction to AISD third- to fifth-graders at no cost, including breakfast and transportation. In 2023, ~60 students were hosted from six Title 1 AISD schools, including: Sanchez, Perez, Houston, Travis Heights, Harris, and Hart Elementary schools. Program Costs (38K) The program runs throughout the school year, spanning 20 weeks and serving an average of 50 youth participants. Projected costs for 2025-2026 fiscal year: Staff (26.2K) Food (8K) Materials (1.7K) Field Trips (1K) Custodian (1K) Family Support (13.3K) The Parent Support Program engages families during the Saturday Academy, providing community resources tailored to their needs and guest speakers, such as the Mexican Consulate. Parent Support Specialist (10.8K) Guest Speakers (2K) Materials ($500) Summer Program (44K) A culturally sustaining STEAM program for third to fifth grade AISD students to learn coding and Danza Mexica in both Spanish and English. Science, Tech, Engineering, Art, Math (STEAM) Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Culturally Relevant Curriculum Experiential Learning (Field Trips) Program Costs (44K) Last summer, we offered three two-week sessions, serving a total of 65 Austin youth participants. Projected costs for 2025-2026 fiscal year: Staff (32.8K) Field Trips (1.5K) Materials (7K) Custodial Staff (4.5K) Food (4.5K) Teacher PD (11.5K) Preparation and mentorship for teachers through support networks, professional development workshops, conferences, and La Colaborativa Cuauhtli, which sends teachers to Mexico annually. Attend Conferences (10K) Professional Development Workshops (1.5K) Budget FY25-26 (106K) Teacher PD 11500 Saturday Academy 37750 Bilingual Summer Camp 43380 Parent Support Program 13300 Support the Vision Help us secure ongoing funding from Austin City Council members to support the academic and cultural growth, sense of identity, and belonging of indigenous, Hispanic, Spanish-speaking …
EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER ADVISORY BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20250305-6 Date: March 5, 2025 Subject: FY2026 Budget Recommendation – Funding for Academia Cuauhtli Motioned By: Board Member Anthony Martinez Recommendation The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Advisory Board (MACC) recommends the City Council direct the City Manager to take the following actions and to allocate funds for the following item for FY 2026. 1. Support funding for Academia Cuauhtli’s FY26 operating expenses in the amount of $106,000. Seconded By: Board Member John Estrada Rationale: Academia Cuauhtli: Academia Cuauhtli is a bilingual cultural revitalization program for third to fifth grade students attending AISD schools. Its mission is to honor cultural heritage, foster social justice, and reclaim collective identities in pursuit of educational freedom. For the past 10 years they have focused on establishing various partnership and initiatives within the community with key focuses on students, teachers, parents, and community members. The bilingual cultural revitalization Saturday Academy offers ethnic studies and Danza Mexica instruction to AISD third- to fifth-graders at no cost, including breakfast and transportation. The parent support program engages families during the Saturday Academy, providing community resources tailored to their needs. The Summer program consist of a culturally sustaining STEAM program for third to fifth grade AISD students to learn coding and Danza Mexica in both Spanish and English. The teacher professional development opportunities prepare and mentor teachers through support networks, professional development workshops and conferences. The MACC Advisory Board supports the ongoing funding request of Academia Cuauhtli in the amount of $106,000 to support the academic and cultural growth, sense of identity, and belonging of indigenous, Hispanic, Spanish-speaking youth in Austin. 1 of 2 Vote For: Vice Chair Lily Zamarripa-Saenz, Member Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Member Anthony Martinez, Member Noemi Castro, Member Raul “Roy” Reyna, Member John Estrada, Member Cynthia “Cy” Herrera Against: Abstain: Absent: Chair Angelica Navarro, Member Mónica Siañez, Member Gerardo Gandy Attest: ___________________________ Michelle Rojas, Staff Liaison 2 of 2
EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER ADVISORY BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20250305-6 Date: March 5, 2025 Subject: FY2026 Budget Recommendation – MACC Phase 2 funding. Motioned By: Board Member Herrera Recommendation The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Advisory Board (MACC) recommends the City Council direct the City Manager to allocate funds to complete the MACC Phase 2 construction and renovation project for FY 2026. Description of Recommendation to Council 1. Allocate funding for items that were removed from the MACC’s Phase 2 project to complete it as presented to the community for a total amount between $2.2 and $2.4 in the FY26 budget. Seconded By: Board Member Estrada Rationale: Phase 2 Operating Budget In 2018 a comprehensive community engagement was completed as part of the Facility Expansion Plan which included community members and Austin City Council members. The Austin City Council unanimously voted to adopt the 2018 Facility Expansion Plan on May 24, 2018, with the intent to complete all remaining phases without preconditions on funding sources. The 2018 Bond Committee recommended, and Austin City Council approved $27 million to be included under Proposition B for the ESB-MACC Phase 2 project. 74 percent of voters in the 2018 election voted in favor of Proposition B. The Joint Venture team of Miro Rivera Architects (Austin) and Estudio Tatiana Bilbao (Mexico City) was selected to lead the Phase 2 design in part because of their experience designing world-class facilities. Due to the rising costs in construction and inflation, items had to be value engineered out of the project to stay within budget. The project team has been diligently working on completing the project slated for completion in the Fall of 2025. The Mexican American Cultural Center Advisory Board recommends to the Austin City Council to allocate the necessary amount needed to complete the items as were presented during community engagement to fulfill the commitment by the City of Austin to complete a Phase 2 expansion and renovation that is commensurate with a world-class cultural center that continues to reflect the strength and resiliency of Austin’s Mexican American community. 1 of 2 Vote For: Vice Chair Lily Zamarripa-Saenz, Member Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Member Anthony Martinez, Member Noemi Castro, Member Raul “Roy” Reyna, Member John Estrada, Member Cynthia “Cy” Herrera Against: Abstain: Absent: Chair Angelica Navarro, Member Mónica Siañez, Member Gerardo Gandy Attest: Michelle Rojas, Staff Liaison 2 of 2
EMMA S. BARRIENROS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER REGULAR MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5, 2025 The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at City Hall – Board and Commissions Room located at 301 West Second Street in Austin, Texas 78701. (Some members of the ESB-MACC Advisory Board participated via videoconference.) Vice Chair Zamarripa-Saenz called the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Meeting to order at 6:10pm. Board Members in Attendance: Board Members Absent: Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz, Vice Chair Angelica Navarro, Chair Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Member Noemi Castro, Member John Estrada, Member Cynthia “Cy” Herrera, Member (Arrived at 6:13pm) Raul “Roy” Reyna, Member Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Gerardo Gandy, Member (Left at 7:23pm) Anthony Martinez, Member Mónica Siañez, Member (Left at 9:28pm) Staff in Attendance: Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager Marie Ortiz, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Supervisor Tina Davila, ESB-MACC Administrative Specialist PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Speaker 1, Item 5: Martha Cotera, Academia Cuauhtli Co-founder thanked the board for their consideration and support on the budget that would be submitted to request additional funding for the operation of Academia Cuauhtli. She also recommended that the MACC incorporate more history and informative symposiums into the MACC’s programming to continue to get public intellectuals engaged. Speaker 2, Item 5: Emilio Zamora, Professor of History at the University of Texas was in attendance to support the budget request for Academia Cuauhtli. He mentioned Academia Cuauhtli was working with Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager on a memorandum of understanding to solidify their relationship with the MACC. He also expressed his appreciation for allowing Cuauhtli the opportunity to extend what they had to offer the community, which was education and cultural services. 1 Speaker 3, Item 5: Jessica Silva shared that her family had been part of Academia Cuauhtli’s Saturday and Summer programs since 2022. She expressed her support for the program as she was a parent of two students. She stated Academia Cuauhtli played a vital role in enriching the community and encouraging the personal growth of their children by offering opportunities to connect with multiple generations at once. Commenting that the kids find joy in connecting with their peers, college student mentors, and other adults who care about their education and well-being. Speaker 4, Item 5: Janay Silva-Soto let the board know that she was a …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, March 5th, 2025 – 6:00 PM City Hall – Council Chambers 301 W. 2nd Street Austin, TX 78701 Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, email preservation@austintexas.gov or call Sam Fahnestock at (512) 974-3393. Ben Heimsath, (D-8) Chair Roxanne Evans (Mayor), Vice COMMISSION MEMBERS: Chair VACANT (D-1) VACANT (D-2) Kevin Koch (D-3) Raymond Castillo (D-4) Harmony Grogan (D-5) Carl Larosche (D-6) Jaime Alvarez (D-7) VACANT (D-9) Trey McWhorter (D-10) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first (10) speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1 1. February 5, 2025 – Offered for consent approval. BRIEFINGS 2. PUBLIC HEARINGS/DISCUSSION AND ACTION Historic Zoning Applications 3. C14H-2025-0022 – 1701 San Gabriel St. Briefing on Public Comment Period for Downtown Historic Resource Survey. Presenter: Sofia Wagner Council District 9 Proposal: Owner-initiated historic zoning. Applicant: Whitehall Co-op City Staff: Austin Lukes, Historic Preservation Office, 512-978-0766 Staff Recommendation: Grant the applicant’s request to postpone the public hearing to March 5, 2025. Historic Landmark and Local Historic District Applications 4. HR-2024-095142 – 2504 Bridle Path Culberson House Council District 10 Proposal: Addition, new doors and windows, new cabana, new siding. (Postponed February 5, 2025) Applicant: Minnie Webb City Staff: Austin Lukes, Historic Preservation Office, 512-978-0766 Staff Recommendation: Application withdrawn. 5. HR-2025-014398 – 4105 Avenue G Hyde Park Local Historic District Council District 9 Proposal: Two-story addition, new roof, and restoration. Applicant: Max Hambly City Staff: Austin Lukes, Historic Preservation Office, 512-978-0766 Staff Recommendation: Comment on plans. 6. HR-2025-017456 – 200 The Circle Brunson House Council District 9 Proposal: Partial demolition, addition to the garage. Applicant: Slade Hebert City Staff: Austin Lukes, Historic Preservation Office, 512-978-0766 Staff Recommendation: Comment on plans. 2 National Register District Permit Applications 7. HR-2024-123060 – 1003 Maufrais St. West Line National Register Historic District Council District 9 Proposal: Addition and …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, February 5th, 2025 – 6:00 PM City Hall – Council Chambers 301 W. 2nd Street Austin, TX 78701 Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, email preservation@austintexas.gov or call Sam Fahnestock at (512) 974-3393. COMMISSION MEMBERS: Ben Heimsath, Chair x Roxanne Evans, Vice Chair x Kevin Koch x Carl Larosche x x x x ab Trey McWhorter Harmony Grogan Jaime Alvarez Raymond Castillo DRAFT MINUTES CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first (10) speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. January 8, 2025 – Offered for consent approval. BRIEFINGS 1 2. Briefing on the FY25 Recommended Heritage Preservation Grants Presenter: Melissa Alvarado CONSENT/CONSENT POSTPONEMENT AGENDA Historic Landmark and Local Historic District Applications 3. HR-2024-095142 – 2504 Bridle Path Culberson House Council District 10 Proposal: Addition, new doors and windows, new cabana, new siding. (Postponed January 8, 2025) Applicant: Minnie Webb City Staff: Austin Lukes, Historic Preservation Office, 512-978-0766 Staff Recommendation: Grant the applicant’s request to postpone the public hearing to March 5, 2025. MOTION: Postpone the public hearing to March 5, 2025, per passage of the consent postponement agenda, on a motion by Commissioner Koch. Commissioner Larosche seconded the motion. Vote: 7-0. The motion passed. National Register District Permit Applications 4. HR-2024-123060 – 1003 Maufrais St. West Line National Register Historic District Council District 9 Proposal: Addition and remodel, new construction of a cabana and pool. (Postponed January 8, 2025) Applicant: Jennifer Hanlen City Staff: Kalan Contreras, Historic Preservation Office, 512-974-2727 Staff Recommendation: Grant the applicant’s request to postpone the public hearing to March 5, 2025. MOTION: Postpone the public hearing to March 5, 2025, per passage of the consent postponement agenda, on a motion by Commissioner Koch. Commissioner Larosche seconded the motion. Vote: 7-0. The motion passed. Item 5 was pulled for discussion. 6. HR-2024-165753 – 1908 …
