1. 2. 4. 5. REGULAR MEETING of the ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL Monday, February 3rd, 2025, at 6:00 PM Virtual Meeting Members of the ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL may participate by video conference. Public comment will be allowed remotely via video conference or telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for participation. To register to speak, call or email AIPP Program Manager Jaime Castillo at jaime.castillo@austintexas.gov, (512) 974-7852. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Chair – Stephanie Lemmo, Vice Chair – J Muzacz, Andrew Danziger, Taylor Davis, Bernardo Diaz, Kristi-Anne Shaer, Monica Maldonado – Arts Commission Liaison 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 Approve minutes of the Art in Public Places Panel Regular Meeting on January 13th, 2025. Approve minutes of the Art in Public Places Panel Special Called Meeting on January 14th, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of Arts Commission Liaison Report on Action Items from January 27th, 2025, Arts Commissions Meeting by Arts Commission Liaison Maldonado Discussion of Mid/ Concept Design for Montopolis Pool Art in Public Places Project – Britt Johnson Discussion of Mid/ Concept Design for Faulk History Center Art in Public Places Project – Suzy Gonzalez DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. ACTION: Approve Final Design for the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport Terminal Expansion Phase (TEP) II A Art in Public Places Project – Beili Liu ACTION: Approve Request for Qualifications for the Asian American Resource Center Art in Public Places Project Art in Public Places Staff Briefing on Conservation, Current Projects, and Milestones STAFF BRIEFINGS 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 Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please contact AIPP Program Manager Jaime Castillo at jaime.castillo@austintexas.gov or (512) 974- 7852 for additional information; TTY users' route through Relay Texas at 711.
CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FRIDAY JANUARY 10, 2025 MINUTES FOR THE CITY OF AUSTIN FIREFIGHTERS’, POLICE OFFICERS’ AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES PERSONNEL’S CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING FRIDAY, JANUARY 10, 2025 The Firefighters’, Police Officers’, and Emergency Medical Services Personnel’s Civil Service Commission convened in a Special Called Meeting on Friday, January 10, 2025, at 5202 East Ben White Boulevard, Building 500, Austin TX 78741. Commissioners in Attendance: Commission Chair Jolsna Thomas Commissioner Vice Chair Farah Ahmed Commissioners Absent: Vacant Staff in Attendance: Jaclyn Gerban, Assistant City Attorney Matthew Chustz, Municipal & Civil Service Manager Cyndi Gordon, Civil Service Coordinator Rogue Huitron, Civil Service Coordinator Meca Thompson, Civil Service Coordinator CALL TO ORDER Chair Thomas called the meeting to order at 10:06 a.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Firefighters’, Police Officers’, and Emergency Medical Services Personnel’s Civil Service Commission Meeting of December 2, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of December 2, 2024, were approved on Vice Chair Ahmeds’ motion, Chair Thomas’ second on a 2-0 vote. CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FRIDAY JANUARY 10, 2025 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Hear and rule on appeal(s) from the Austin Police Department Lieutenant written promotional examination administered on December 12, 2024, pursuant to the Texas Local Government Code, Section 143.034, and the City of Austin Fire Fighters’, Police Officers’ and Emergency Medical Services Personnel’s Civil Service Commission Rules and Regulations, Rule 7. The motion to deny the appeal of exam question 9 and keep the answer as keyed was approved on Vice Chair Ahmeds’ motion, Chair Thomas’ second on a 2-0 vote. The motion to deny the appeal of exam question 48 and keep the answer as keyed was approved on Vice Chair Ahmeds’ motion, Chair Thomas’ second on a 2-0 vote. The motion to deny the appeal of exam question 64 and keep the answer as keyed was approved on Vice Chair Ahmeds’ motion, Chair Thomas’ second on a 2-0 vote. The motion to deny the appeal of exam question 66 and keep the answer as keyed was approved on Vice Chair Ahmeds’ motion, Chair Thomas’ second on a 2-0 vote. The motion to deny the appeal of exam question 70 and keep the answer as keyed was approved on Vice Chair Ahmeds’ motion, Chair Thomas’ second on a 2-0 vote. The motion to deny the appeal of exam question …
2025 Civil Service Commission Regular Meeting Schedule January 6, 2025 February 3, 2025 March 3, 2025 April 7, 2025 May 5, 2025 June 2, 2025 July 7, 2025 August 4, 2025 October 6, 2025 November 3, 2025 December 1, 2025 Meeting Schedule approved at the October 29, 2024 meeting
Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, December 2, 2024 PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Monday, December 2, 2024 The Public Safety Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Monday, December 2, 2024, at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room, 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Ramírez called the Public Safety Commission Meeting to order at 4:02 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Nelly Paulina Ramírez, Chair Timothy Ruttan, Vice Chair Rebecca Bernhardt Enrique Duran II Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: David Holmes Pierre Nguyễn Michael Sierra-Arévalo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Stephanie Ryan – A thank you to APD and crime reduction strategies. APPROVAL OF MINUTES DISCUSSION ITEMS Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on November 4, 2024. The minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on November 4, 2024, were approved on Vice Chair Ruttan’s motion, Commissioner Duran’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Nguyễn was off the dais. Commissioners Hermesmeyer, Orr, and Smith were absent. Discussion of commissioner appointments in 2025, the holdover capacity, and quorum for the Public Safety Commission. Discussed. Public Safety Quarterly Report, Austin/Travis County Emergency Medical Services Department. 1. 2. 3. 1 Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, December 2, 2024 The presentation was made by Wesley Hopkins, Chief of Staff, Austin/Travis County Emergency Medical Services Department. Presentation regarding Public Safety Department mental health services and support for sworn staff. The presentation was made by Heather Arispe, Public Safety Wellness Administrator, Austin Fire Department; Kachina Clark, Police Division Manager – Victim Services/Employee Wellness, Austin Police Department; Jennifer Smith, Sergeant, Austin Police Department; Connie Geerhart, Employee Wellness Program Manager, Austin Police Department; James Mason, Assistant Chief, Austin Police Department; Wesley Hopkins, Chief of Staff, Austin/Travis County Emergency Medical Services Department; Tom Vocke, Assistant Chief, Austin Fire Department. Presentation regarding Public Safety Department demographics and diversification efforts. The presentation was made by James Mason, Assistant Chief, Austin Police Department; Wesley Hopkins, Chief of Staff, Austin/Travis County Emergency Medical Services Department; Tom Vocke, Assistant Chief, Austin Fire Department. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Approve a Public Safety Commissioner to serve on the Downtown Commission as a non- voting member per City Code 2-1-140-C. The motion to approve Chair Ramírez to serve on the Downtown Commission as a non- voting member was approved on Chair Ramírez’s motion, Vice Chair Ruttan’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Hermesmeyer, Orr, and Smith were absent. WORKING …
Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, January 6, 2025 PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Monday, January 6, 2025 The Public Safety Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Monday, January 6, 2025, at City of Austin Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. in Austin, Texas. Chair Ramírez called the Public Safety Commission Meeting to order at 4:05 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Nelly Paulina Ramírez, Chair Timothy Ruttan, Vice Chair Michael Sierra-Arévalo Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Enrique Duran II Pierre Nguyễn Yasmine Smith PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Ryan Saunders– Neighbor noise issues and complaint process. APPROVAL OF MINUTES DISCUSSION ITEMS Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on December 2, 2024. The motion to approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on December 2, 2024, failed on Vice Chair Ruttan’s motion, Commissioner Sierra- Arévalo’s second on a 5-0 vote. Commissioner Smith abstained. Commissioners Bernhardt, Holmes, and Orr were absent. Public Safety Quarterly Report, Austin Police Department. The presentation was made by Robin Henderson, Chief of Staff, Austin Police Department. Commissioner Smith requested data on how the APD Cadet graduation rates compare to averages of similar cities. 1. 2. 1 Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, January 6, 2025 3. 4. Presentation regarding the inclement winter weather plans including communication and partnerships with area organizations. Presentation by Bill Wilson, Interim Director, Homeland Security and Emergency Management. The presentation was made by Bill Wilson, Interim Director, Homeland Security and Emergency Management. Commissioner Smith requested data on unhoused persons receiving digital communications. Presentation regarding the work of the Office of Violence Prevention, including partnerships with public safety agencies and review of the Gun Violence Problem Analysis. Presentation by Michelle Myles, Senior Business Process Consultant, Austin Public Health. The presentation was made by Michelle Myles, Senior Business Process Consultant, Austin Public Health. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion of City of Austin Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-2026 Budget timeline and process and formation of a working group to draft budget recommendations. Postponed without objection. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Inclement weather update from both HSEM and HSO. (Smith) Recommendation to request a biannual update presentation from HSEM. (Ramírez) Staffing report (Ramírez) ADJOURNMENT Chair Ramírez adjourned the meeting at 6:10 p.m. without objection. 2
Downtown Area Command Updates Downtown Commission January 15, 2025 Lieutenant Christopher Juusola Christopher.Juusola@AustinTexas.gov Topics • Staffing Update • DTAC Crime Stats • Updates • E 6th Street • Meridian Barricades • Questions APD Staffing (1/6/2025) APD Staffing APD Staffing DTAC Property Crime DTAC Violent Crime DTAC Violent Crime DTAC Crimes Against Society E 6th St Project Overview • West Bound Traffic Only • No North/South Traffic • Widened “Sidewalks” • Devices to Keep Pedestrians Out of Roadway • Regular Stakeholder Meetings • Violent Crime • Advocate for Economic • Property Crime Development • Advocate for Safer Environment • Response to Resistance Incidents • Collisions • Sales Data (Alcohol) • Devices to Keep Vehicles Out • Advocate for Better Business of Pedestrian Areas Practices • Increased Traffic Enforcement “Devices” • Fences- Keeps Pedestrians Out of Roadway • Engineered Curbs- Keeps Vehicles Out of Pedestrian Areas Traffic Plan -South Side= Blocked, 1 lane + Parking Lane -North Side= Blocked, Parking Lane Only Upcoming Projects (Stay Tuned) • Spring Festival Season • Increased DTAC Police Staffing • Changes to DTAC Patrol Area Questions? • Mark Clemens, DTAC Commander • Mark.Clemens@AustinTexas.gov • Christopher Juusola, DTAC Operations Lieutenant • Christopher.Juusola@AustinTexas.gov
Austin Police Department Public Safety Commission Sex Crimes Data July – December, 2024 February 3, 2025 APD Sex Crimes Data PSC Presentation • Section 1- Calls for Service • Section 4- Case Staffings • Section 2- Reported Cases • Section 5- Key Messages • Section 3- Internal Case Status 2 2 Sex Crimes Related Calls for Service July-December 793 536 726 475 900 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 Q3 Q4 2023 2024 Source: APD CAD Calls (Current as of: 1/23/25) 3 3 Reported Sex Crimes- Highest Offense Adult Cases July-December 2023 & 2024 219 149 250 200 150 100 50 0 11A- Rape 11B- Sodomy 11C- Sex Assault w/Object 21 27 July-Dec 2023 July-Dec 2024 50 26 Source: Versadex RMS (Current as of: 1/22/25) 4 4 Adult Reported Cases for All Sex Based Crimes July-December 2023= 710 July-December 2024= 655 All cases of sex based crimes reported to APD are investigated regardless of the title code or offense In 2023, all reports were investigated but the title codes were not always changed from Sexual Assault Information to Sexual Assault Example of our data hygiene efforts to improve transparent and accurate reporting in 2024 and beyond 5 Other Reported Sex Based Crimes- Highest Offense Adult Cases July-December 2023 & 2024 160 125 71 68 96 54 183 107 200 180 160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 2 2 Burglary of Residence- Sex Nature Indecent Exposure; Public Lewdness 2 2 Sexual Coercion 0 1 Kidnapping Sex Crime Info; Out of City; Suspected SA Sexual Photos; Intimate Visual Recordings Sex Offense, Forcible: Fondling July-Dec 2023 July-Dec 2024 Source: Versadex RMS (Current as of: 1/22/25) 6 6 Internal Case Status Rape, SA with Object, Sodomy (11A-11C) July-December (2023 vs 2024) 102 154 Warrant Issued (Suspended) 13 7 Unfounded Suspended Prosecutor Declined 14 Suspended Pending Victim Readiness Suspended Pending Follow Up Suspended Pending DNA Suspended No Leads/Evidence 16 48 Suspended (Closed) 10 5 Suspending- Pending Prosecutorial Review Cleared Exceptionally Cleared by Arrest Cleared Administratively 2 2 3 8 4 4 2 0 1 2 3 4 0 0 20 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 36 37 40 July-Dec 2024 July-Dec 2023 Source: Versadex RMS (Current as of: 1/18/25) 7 7 Internal Case Status Other Sex Based Crimes July-December (2023 vs 2024) 146 145 85 112 Warrant Issued (Suspended) 27 Unfounded Suspended …
TCDA Adult Sexual Assault Data Prepared for the Public Safety Commission - 1.29.2025 JULY - DECEMBER 2024 Case Staffing Snapshot: 07/01/24 to 12/31/24 Austin PD ALL AGENCIES # LEA Did Not File 32 40 # TCDA Declined 0 0 # PFI # Accepted 26 42 21 21 Case Prosecution Snapshot: 07/01/24 to 12/31/24 Cases Received for Prosecution Cases Rejected or Dismissed Cases Indicted Cases No Billed Cases Pled Cases Tried 76 40 59 3 40 7 Conviction Acquittal Mistrial 4 1 2 1 TCDA Adult Sexual Assault Data Prepared for the Public Safety Commission - 1.29.2025 JULY 2024 Case Staffing Snapshot : 7/1/24 to 7/31/24 Austin PD Bee Cave PD Mustang Ridge PD TCSO ALL AGENCIES # LEA Did Not File 1 0 1 0 2 # TCDA Declined 0 0 0 0 0 # Accepted 7 0 0 0 7 8 1 0 1 10 # PFI # Total Cases Staffed Case Prosecution Snapshot: 7/1/24 to 7/31/24 Cases Received for Prosecution Cases Rejected or Dismissed Interest of Justice and CW or LEA Has Requested Dismissal/Rejection Unable to Locate or Necessary Witness Failed to Appear/Cooperate Unable to proceed: Defense Motion to Dismiss or Suppress Granted Cases Indicted Cases No Billed Cases Pled Cases Tried Conviction Acquittal Mistrial Trial Outcome - D-1-DC-23-203069 SEXUAL ASSAULT PROH SEXUAL CONDUCT GUILTY GUILTY 16 1 1 1 19 22 3 1 1 1 7 1 5 1 1 0 0 2 TCDA Adult Sexual Assault Data Prepared for the Public Safety Commission - 1.29.2025 AUGUST 2024 Case Staffing Snapshot: 8/1/24 to 8/31/24 # LEA Did Not File # PFI # Total Cases Staffed Austin PD Lakeway PD TCSO Univ of Texas PD ALL AGENCIES # TCDA Declined 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 3 # Accepted 4 0 0 0 4 5 1 4 0 10 Case Prosecution Snapshot: 8/1/24 to 8/31/24 Cases Received for Prosecution Cases Rejected or Dismissed Case has Been Refiled Defendant is Deceased or Terminally Ill Defendant Prosecuted in Another Case Insufficient Evidence Interest of Justice and CW or LEA Has Requested Dismissal/Rejection Cases Indicted Cases No Billed Cases Pled Cases Tried Conviction Acquittal Mistrial Trial Outcome - D-1-DC-22-600102 AGG SEXUAL ASSAULT NOT GUILTY 10 1 5 1 17 16 9 2 2 3 1 1 4 0 10 1 0 1 0 3 TCDA Adult Sexual Assault Data Prepared for the Public Safety Commission - 1.29.2025 SEPTEMBER …
PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250203-007 February 3, 2025 Date: Subject: Reporting Motioned by: Seconded by: Recommendation: The Public Safety Commission recommends Collective Sex Crimes Response Model Aggregated Sexual Assault Case Data WHEREAS, the Austin Public Safety Commission is tasked with providing WHEREAS, in September 2019, the City Manager’s Office contracted the Police WHEREAS, on November 14, 2022, the final PERF report was released, and the Austin WHEREAS, sexual assault lawsuits were filed and settlements were approved for Smith recommendations to the Austin City Council; Executive Research Forum (PERF), in conjunction with the Women’s Law Project and the Wellesley Centers for Women, to undertake a comprehensive assessment of the way sexual assaults reported to the Austin Police Department (APD) are investigated and processed; and et. al. vs City of Austin and Senko et. al. vs City of Austin; and Police Department (APD) Review and Reported Sexual Assault Comprehensive Evaluation included comprehensive findings and over one hundred recommendations; and Sexual Assault Response and Resource Team (SARRT) to address the PERF recommendations and take actions, including revisions to APD policies and procedures; and early 2023 to coordinate the full response to the PERF report, and includes representatives from APD, SARRT, nonprofit and community organizations, survivors and survivor advocates; and WHEREAS, the Collective Sex Crimes Response Model (CSCRM) project scope item 15.9 instructs the CSCRM to utilize the Public Safety Commission to review aggregated sexual assault case data; WHEREAS, the Collective Sex Crimes Response Model (CSCRM) was established in WHEREAS, the Austin Police Department is working with the Austin/Travis County WHEREAS, stakeholders from the CSCRM, APD and the Public Safety Commission recognize that the Public Safety Commission’s central role in providing a home for aggregated sexual assault case data is temporary and that a permanent, more appropriate home needs to be identified and funded for this purpose; and WHEREAS, the Public Safety Commission’s meetings are publicly accessible via broadcast on ATXN, archived video, archived transcripts, and backup documentation available on the City of Austin’s website; BE IT RECOMMENDED BY THE PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN THAT: Austin Police Department, SAFE Alliance, and Travis County District Attorney’s office submit sexual assault case data on a quarterly basis for review and discussion at Public Safety Commission meetings with data sets and presentations available in meeting backup documentation. Representatives of the respective stakeholders shall be present to answer questions about data and provide insight …
Collective Sex Crimes Response Model (CSCRM) Project – Q4 2024 Update Austin Police Department General Project Updates • New scope addition: • 15.20 The CSCRM Project will adopt the OVW Abby Honold Grant into its scope via the Training Workgroup. • OVW Abby Honold Grant is positioned to support several of the Training WG scope items. • Training WG scope will extend to match the timeline of the grant (Sep 2027). • Awareness of CSCRM is spreading: • Fort Worth PD Site Visit (Dec 2024) • Presentation Requests (Jan 2025): • Office of the Texas Attorney General, Crime Victim Services Division Conference • Office of the Texas Governor, Sexual Assault Survivor’s Task Force • New APD leaders have been briefed on CSCRM Project. • 2021-2022 Case Review final report is scheduled for release in January 2025. • The following will operate outside of CSCRM scope: • 2021-2022 Case Review remediation efforts (in progress) • 2023-2024 Case Review (in progress) Q4 2024 2 Dashboard Status – Q4 2024 Summary: • Complete = 26% (32 Items) • In Progress = 59% (73 Items) • Not Started = 15% (18 Items) Q4 2024 *Note: Items listed as “Not Started” have not yet been assessed by the multi-disciplinary Workgroup, however improvements may have already been initiated and/or implemented by APD independently. 3 3 Burndown Timeline – Q4 2024 • Timeline estimates for each element of scope are being tracked by quarter. • Timelines may be impacted by leadership transitions, funding, project team availability, and unforeseen constraints. • Training WG scope has been extended to Q3 2027. All other scope remains targeted for completion by Q4 2025. We are Here Q4 2024 4 Project Challenges & Risks • OVW Abby Honold Grant is lacking clarity. We are preparing CSCRM to operate on a ‘learn-as-we-go’ approach. • Capacity constraints limiting the fulfillment of forensic exams in the Austin/Travis County area remain as a Risk. APD contract with SAFE is currently under review. • Data hygiene practices throughout APD need to remain a focus for 2025. • Council Member Alison Alter’s term ended in 2024. She was the primary champion for the CSCRM Project on City Council. • Changes are expected with new leadership at the APD and City level. Impact to CSCRM is currently unclear. • On-going: • The majority of SCU detectives have limited experience in sex crimes. Building experience and training will be key. …
89TH STATE LEGISLATIVE SESSION Rick Ramirez, Deputy Intergovernmental Relations Officer Intergovernmental Relations Office Agenda • Legislative Team & Legislative Agenda • 89th Session Overview • Key City Issues & Bills • Key Bills of Interest to the Commission 2 City of Austin Legislative Team Carrie Rogers Intergovernmental Relations Officer Carrie.Rogers@austintexas.gov 512.923.7577 cell Carrie.Rogers@austintexas.gov Rick Ramirez Deputy Officer – Legislative Rick.Ramirez2@austintexas.gov 737.218.3668 cell Local / Regional Administrator Deputy Officer Grants / Legislative Funding Alison Ross Legislative Relations Senior Coordinator Alison.Ross@austintexas.gov 512.680.3631 cell Legislative Relations Senior Coordinator Valerie Gomez Coordinator Valerie.Gomez@austintexas.gov 512.689.8256 cell Valerie.Gomez@austintexas.gov Annabel Osburn Grants Strategic Program Analyst Grant Writer Grant Writer 3 Legislative Agendas: At a Glance Legislative program focuses on primary City priorities: • Preserve Local Authority: Protect Austin’s control over zoning, ordinances, and local regulations, and ensure cities have appropriate tools to meet housing affordability challenges. • Financial Responsibility: Oppose unfunded state mandates or legislation that would place undue financial burdens on the City. • Community Health & Safety: Support access to healthcare, public safety funding, improved quality of life and protections for vulnerable populations. • Environmental & Infrastructure Resilience: Protect Austin’s natural resources, encourage sustainability, and invest in critical infrastructure. 4 Overarching Issues Influencing the 89th session Politically Charged, Overarching Issues Influencing the 89th session • Election results: New Administration • New House Speaker • New House Rules & Committees • School Finance / School Vouchers • Power Grid 5 State Leadership in the 89th Session The “Big Three” House & Senate Chambers Republicans will control House and Senate in the 89th Session Governor Greg Abbott Elected by voters for a four-year term. Not up for reelection this cycle. Lt. Governor Dan Patrick Elected by voters for a four-year term. Not up for reelection this cycle. House Speaker Dustin Burrows Elected by Texas House every two- years on 1st day of the regular session Speaker Burrows elected House Speaker for the 89th Session 20 Republicans, 11 Democrats 89th Session • Senate *3 Freshmen • House 88 Republicans, 62 Democrats *31 Freshmen 6 Changes in the House New Speaker • Dustin Burrows (R-Lubbock) New House Rules • No Minority Party Committee Chairs • No Majority Party Committee Vice Chairs • New Authority for Vice Chairs • 2 New Standing Committees • 6 Standing Committees Abolished • 11 New Standing Subcommittees New Members • 31 Freshman House Members – the most since 83rd Session in 2013 7 89th …
PROPOSED LIVE MUSIC FUND GUIDELINES SECRETARY SCOTT STRICKLAND D8 PROPOSED MUSICIAN GUIDELINES FOR LMF DRAFT RECOMMENDATION 5,000, 10,000, and 15,000 Grants based on the project proposal of the Artist along with cultural and economic impact bringing the efficacy rate of awardees to at least 23 percent in congruence with Cultural Arts Grants Thrive, Elevate, and Nexus. All projects, regardless of the proposal, must have a public-facing component (live show) that promotes tourism, and the majority of awarded funds must be used to support, advertise, and implement a pubic-facing component within the grant cycle’s time frame. This complies with the Municipal Hotel Tax Satiate (MHOT) Texas Tax Code 351.101 • No questions concerning age, sex, gender, race, sexual orientation, qualified census tract, economic status, or genre should be at all considered in regard to grant awards. Live Music Fund Applicant Pool based on race https:// www.austintexas.gov/atxmusic/live-music-fund These demographics are indicative are are in alignment with Austin’s Music ecosystem, including ETJs. • Asian American 3% • Multiracial 6% • Black/African American 16% • Hispanic or Latino 21% • White 39% • Artists must provide 2 forms of proof verifying their proof of address to become eligible. • Other guidelines such as releases, ticket count for shows, and economic impact to Austin and extraterritorial districts should be highly considered for grant awardees. 5,000.00 115 Grants for Artists with smaller projects (smaller economic impact) 10,000.00 115 Grants for Artists with larger-sized projects (more ambitious economic impact) 15,000.00 116 Grants for Artists with Large sized projects (showcases, touring, studio record completion)* * Artists are eligible to apply every two years. PROPOSED INDEPENDENT PROMOTER GUIDELINES FOR LMF An independent promoter is an individual or organization that: 1. Organizes, markets, and promotes live events such as concerts, music festivals, or performances. 2. Operates independently of any venue, record label, or major entertainment company. 3. Is typically self-employed or runs a small business, working on a contractual basis with artists, venues, or event organizers. Independent promoters must have a verifiable business specifically associated with promoting artists, and events, being contracted with venues, and/or festivals. Independent promoters and their legally established businesses must have been active for 1 year or have put on at least 10 events as independent promoters and must make or have made 51 percent of their income as independent promoters, and must provide proof beyond social media in the way of contracts, ticket sales, other …
AUSTIN FIRE Pu b lic Sa fe t y Co m m is s io n Me e t in g FY2 5 Q1 Ch ief of Sta ff Rob Vires 1 C a l i f o r n i a W i l d f i r e R e s p o n s e AFD was part of a Texas strike team All TX Strike Team crews in California adopted wildland firefighting tactics taught to them by AFD Wildfire Captain Doug Iannelli AFD unit was assigned to the Palisades and Las Flores Canyon areas Duties included: • Mitigating wildfire hotspots • Clearing sidewalks and roadways of debris • Assisting utilities personnel with gas shutoff • Patrolling streets for fires TX Strike Team in California 2 AFD crew hiking through the hills of Southern California searching for infrared hot spots AFD Firefighter Jacob Bishop clearing foliage to make access easier for returning residents. A F D M e n t a l H e a l t h U p d a t e AFD has seen four suicides committed by firefighters and recently retired members over the last 5 years Mental health resources include: Staff Psychologists • Free therapy services for AFD employees and their dependents • Referrals to Ascension services for priority psychiatric consultation/medication treatment • Annual behavioral health checks • Provide psychoeducation on a variety of mental health topics • Station visits to facilitate familiarity with department mental health professionals and reiterate access to resources. Peer Support • 24/7 free and confidential hotline available to all firefighters and their families • Conduct education sessions about the importance of resiliency and positivity in the face of the challenges on the job • Cadet mentoring program for the past 12 classes • Partnership with Divine Canines for therapy dogs Chaplains Non-denominational spiritual support 3 A F D R e s p o n s e t o P e r s o n s E x p e r i e n c i n g H o m e l e s s n e s s ( P E H ) Captain position dedicated to PEH issues Coordination with other entities • City-wide Homeless Encampment Management Teams Group • Vacant Structure Task Force • Homeless Services Office (HSO) • City Public Information Office (CPIO) Inspections - ensure permanent and temporary shelters are safe for …
HOMELESS STRATEGY OFFICE CITY OF AUSTIN PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION David Gray Director, Homeless Strategy Office City of Austin HOMELESS STRATEGY OFFICE DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW The Homeless Strategy Office (HSO) collaborates with public agencies, community organizations, and individuals to make homelessness rare, brief, and nonrecurring. Homeless Strategy Office Core Objectives 1. Manage the City of Austin’s homeless response resources. 2. Produce more shelter and housing options for people experiencing homelessness. 3. Coordinate cleanups and closures of encampments on public land. 4. Collaborate with research partners to incorporate best practices into services. 5. Communicate the City of Austin’s efforts and initiatives regarding homelessness. 6. Broaden the base of financial support for local initiatives and organizations. HOMELESS STRATEGY OFFICE COLLABORATIONS WITH PUBLIC SAFETY AGENCIES Street Outreach: Activities that meet the immediate needs of people living unsheltered. Public Space Management: Activities that ensure public spaces are safe, accessible, and welcoming for all community members. Emergency Shelters: Facilities that provide people experiencing homelessness with access to food, sleep, medical care, and safety. *Other HSO strategies include: • Homeless Prevention • Diversion/Rapid Exit • Rapid Rehousing • Permanent Supportive Housing HSO staff helping unhoused client move into shelter. HOMELESS STRATEGY OFFICE COLLABORATIONS WITH AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT Street Outreach APD is part of the interagency Homeless Outreach Street Team (HOST), which aims to address peoples’ needs using appropriate resources before they reach a state of crisis. Public Space Management HSO and APD coordinate homeless encampment cleanups and closures daily. Also, APD enforces “Keep Clear Sites” following Housing-Focused Encampment Assistance Link (HEAL) Initiatives. Emergency Shelters HSO has beds at the Marshalling Yard Temporary Shelter designated for APD. During Cold Weather Shelter activations, APD transports clients to embarkation or directly to overnight shelters. HOMELESS STRATEGY OFFICE COLLABORATIONS WITH AUSTIN FIRE DEPARTMENT Street Outreach To support AFD’s fire prevention efforts, last year HSO and partners distributed more than 300 fire extinguishers to prevent the spread of fires. Emergency Shelters HSO prioritizes some shelter beds for individuals residing in AFD-designated high wildfire risk areas. Public Space Management Each week, AFD provides HSO with an update on homeless-related fire calls. HSO uses this information to plan outreach and engagement. Lagniappe HSO and AFD participate on a task force that addresses squatting in vacant structures. HOMELESS STRATEGY OFFICE COLLABORATIONS WITH EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES Street Outreach EMS is part of the interagency Homeless Outreach Street Team (HOST). Also, EMS and HSO collaborated to ensure unhoused …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Resource Management Commission Recommendation No. 20250203-002 Recommendation Against Merging the Resource Management Commission and the Zero Waste Advisory Commission WHEREAS, a proposal has been made to merge the Resource Management Commission and the Zero Waste Advisory Commission to create a Resource Recovery and Management Commission; and WHEREAS, the purpose of the Resource Management Commission is to advise the City Council in developing and reviewing city plans and policies concerning the efficient use of energy including alternative and renewable energy technologies and on energy and water conservation; and WHEREAS, the Resource Management Commission is supported by Austin Energy staff resources and regularly engages with Austin Energy, Austin Water and Texas Gas on issues under its purview; and WHEREAS, the purpose of the Zero Waste Advisory Commission is to advise the City Council on solid waste management policies and resources, and to promote an economical and environmentally safe system of waste reduction, recovery, and disposal; and WHEREAS, the Zero Waste Advisory Commission is supported by Austin Resource Recovery staff; and WHEREAS, the overlap between the Resource Management Commission and Zero Waste Advisory Commission is narrow in scope, and a merged Resource Recovery and Management Commission would require both City staff and Commissioners to engage on an expansive array of issues unrelated to their primary areas of expertise and day-to-day responsibility; and WHEREAS, the two commissions may effectively coordinate on the few areas of overlap by sharing information, appointing members to serve on any applicable working groups and considering joint resolutions; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Resource Management Commission recommends against merging the Resource Management Commission and the Zero Waste Advisory Commission. Date of Approval: February 3, 2025 Commissioner Louis Stone, Chair; Commissioner Paul Robbins, Vice Chair; Commissioner Charlotte Davis; Commissioner Martin Luecke; Commissioner Dino Sasaridis; Commissioner Raphael Schwartz; Commissioner Alison Silverstein 7-0 None None None Vote: For: Against: Abstentions: Off Dais: Absences: Vacancies: Attest: Natasha Goodwin, Staff Liaison Commissioner Trey Farmer; Commissioner GeNell Gary Mayor’s Office; District 10
