ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY-OF-LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240319-008 Date: March 19, 2024 Subject: Recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Asian American Resource Center (AARC) Senior Program Language Access Motioned by: Pierre Nguyen AARC Senior Program Language Access Seconded By: Vice Chair Sarah Chen Description The Asian American Resource Center (AARC) facility within the Parks and Recreation Department’s (PARD) Museums & Cultural Programs Division has a robust senior program that served 4,712 participants and served about 6,300 meals within the FY2022-2023 year alone. In the AARC budget from FY2022-2023 and FY2023-2024, there has been a significant unmet need for additional funding for expanded Senior Language Access. The AARC has $43,198 in FY2023-2024 budgeted and faced a reduction due to PARD budget cuts already halfway through the year. Of this budget, most of the funding is utilized for Mandarin-language interpretation. The AARC staff has identified a need for Vietnamese and Korean interpretation for activities as well as to better serve seniors with language barriers for 1- 2 days of the week during the senior programs at the facility. As the only senior program in the city with language access for Asian languages consistently available, it is essential that the AARC has the budget needed for additional language interpretation services to expand equitable access to more of our Asian American seniors. Recommendation Ongoing addition of $15,000 is recommended for language interpretation to add Vietnamese and Korean-interpreted activity days to the AARC senior program Department PARD/Museums & Cultural Arts/AARC Alignment with Council Strategic Priorities Culture & Lifelong Learning: Quality of cultural venues, events, programs, and resources; Quality of lifelong learning opportunities. Government That Works for All: Condition of City facilities and technology; Public engagement and participation; Equity of City programs and resource allocation. Vote: 12-0 For: Chair Hanna Huang, Vice Chair Sarah Chen, Commissioners Satyajeet Dodia, Padmini Jambulapati, Anna Lan, Pierre Nguyen, Sabrina Sha, Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan, Nayer Sikder, Sonny Sin, Luan Tran, and Lily Trieu Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Commissioners Mohsin Lari and Kuo Yang Attest: ______________________________ Eric Anderson, Staff Liaison
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY-OF-LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240319-010 Date: March 19, 2024 Subject: Recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for an Equity Office Data Analyst Associate position Motioned by: Vice Chair Sarah Chen Equity Office Data Analyst Associate position Seconded By: Commissioner Sonny Sin Description Data Equity for the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities is a pressing issue that affects and informs the services we receive or do not. It is defined by the group AAPI Data as 1) inclusion and incorporation of community expertise and research expertise to 2) ensure equity in all stages and aspects of data and research, including: ● design and development ● collection, compilation, processing, ● analysis, dissemination, and preservation The AAQoL has received various staff and program presentations since our creation and one of the leading trends we see is that there is very little data collection that speaks to the nuances of how or if our broad AANHPI community is served. A Data Analyst Associate FTE position is recommended to be added to the Equity Office to complement the work they are doing with a data analyst associate that can assist in helping the Equity Office stay up to date on national data equity trends, assist with data analysis that can provide deeper insight into systematic issues and trends in available City data, and/or consult with other departments on data equity models and trends. Recommendation An ongoing amount of $95,000 is recommended to cover 1 Data Analyst Associate FTE. Department Equity Office Vote: 12-0 Alignment with Council Strategic Priorities Government that works for all; Equity of City programs and resource allocation For: Chair Hanna Huang, Vice Chair Sarah Chen, Commissioners Satyajeet Dodia, Padmini Jambulapati, Anna Lan, Pierre Nguyen, Sabrina Sha, Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan, Nayer Sikder, Seonhye “Sonny” Sin, Luan Tran, and Lily Trieu Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Commissioners Mohsin Lari and Kuo Yang Attest: ______________________________ Eric Anderson, Staff Liaison
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY-OF-LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240319-011 Date: March 19, 2024 Subject: Recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget related to Austin Public Health Immigrant Legal Services Motioned by: Commissioner Satyajeet Dodia Seconded By: Commissioner Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan Austin Public Health Immigrant Legal Services Description The Asian American Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission (AAQoL) strongly recommends continued funding for the Austin Public Health (APH) Immigrant Legal Services program in the FY 2024-25 budget. This program plays a critical role in supporting the well-being of Austin's immigrant population. APH Immigrant Legal Services currently has 2 contracts in place for American Gateways and 1 contract in place for Catholic Charities, all of which are set to expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The recent closure of Refugee Services of Texas has further reduced options for legal immigration assistance available in the community for refugees, many of whom are from Asian and Middle Eastern countries. Currently, we are aware that American Gateways does not have sufficient resources to serve those needing immigrant legal services and has a waitlist. We strongly recommend continued funding for the APH Immigrant Legal Services program at a level that allows it to meet the growing needs of Austin's immigrant population. Contractors for this program provide critical legal assistance to immigrants in Austin. The program helps immigrants navigate the complex legal system, with a focus on areas like citizenship, deportation defense, and access to public benefits. Recommendation Ongoing funding of $700,000 is recommended to continue services currently being provided along with a suggested $150,000 increase to meet community legal needs from the closure of nonprofits serving refugees in our community. Department Austin Public Health (APH) Alignment with Council Strategic Priorities Government that works for all; Equity of City programs and resource allocation; Safety: Fair administration of justice Vote: 12-0 For: Chair Hanna Huang, Vice Chair Sarah Chen, Commissioners Satyajeet Dodia, Padmini Jambulapati, Anna Lan, Pierre Nguyen, Sabrina Sha, Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan, Nayer Sikder, Seonhye “Sonny” Sin, Luan Tran, and Lily Trieu Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Commissioners Mohsin Lari and Kuo Yang Attest: ______________________________ Eric Anderson, Staff Liaison
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY-OF-LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240319-012 Date: March 19, 2024 Subject: Recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget related to Austin Public Health Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Mental Health Motioned by: Commissioner Satyajeet Dodia Seconded By: Commissioner Pierre Nguyen Austin Public Health Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Mental Health Description The Asian American Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission would like to recommend that the City increase funding for mental health services. In 2020, Austin Public Health (APH) put out a Request for Grant Applications (RFGA) 004 Asian Pacific Islander Mental Health Services that our commission also supported and recommended. There were two applicants and two awarded agencies: Northwest Austin Universal Health Clinic (NAUHC) for $100,000 and Young Women’s Christian Association (also known as YWCA) for $50,000. With the closure of NAUHC, the $100,000 API Mental Health amount was awarded to Get Up Project d/b/a Hope Medical Clinic to provide health education and navigation services prioritizing the Austin Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. While case management services are essential for the AAPI community, their use is very different from the original scope and intention of the RFGA. Given that the funding for mental health for this past fiscal year was diverted to case management, the need is higher than ever to access essential mental healthcare for Austin’s Asian community. Our recommendation would be an ongoing amount that not only is applied to AAPI Mental and Behavioral Health but also to fund a Mental Health Directory specific to mental health specialists who work with members of Austin’s Asian community. The funds would go towards building community-building activities along with the creation of an updated directory of mental health specialists by language and by specialty. Recommendation Ongoing $150,000 for AAPI Mental & Behavioral Health Direct Services One-time $20,000 funding to support administrative maintenance, directory expansion, and client matching for an Asian Behavioral Health Network Department Austin Public Health Alignment with Council Strategic Priorities Alignment with Council Strategic Priorities: Health & Environment: Enjoying a sustainable environment and a healthy life, physically and mentally. A. Health conditions among the public B. Accessibility to quality health care services (physical and mental) Vote: 12-0 For: Chair Hanna Huang, Vice Chair Sarah Chen, Commissioners Satyajeet Dodia, Padmini Jambulapati, Anna Lan, Pierre Nguyen, Sabrina Sha, Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan, Nayer Sikder, Sonny Sin, Luan Tran, and Lily Trieu Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Commissioners Mohsin Lari and Kuo …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY-OF-LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240319-013 Subject: Recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget related to Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Austin Public Health Social Services Case Management Seconded By: Vice Chair Sarah Chen Date: March 19, 2024 Motioned by: Commissioner Sonny Sin AAPI Case Management Description Austin Public Health (APH) currently has a $100,000 grant awarded to Get Up Project d/b/a Hope Medical Clinic to provide health education and navigation services prioritizing the Austin Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. The clinic, whose patients are 46% Asian (primarily refugees), provides free primary healthcare. The grant has allowed them to add a case manager to the staff who is consistently booked full with referrals for social service assistance and referrals after being identified for needing additional social services at the medical clinic. In addition, they have tracked over 6400 minutes of language interpretation used in the past year for patients needing language access from Asian and Middle Eastern countries. Case management with language interpretation requires longer appointments due to the use of a language interpretation service and/or device. High healthcare costs disproportionately affect uninsured adults and those with lower incomes, which are represented in Austin’s Asian community. These communities tend to forgo or delay medical care due to cost or lack of trust. Case management can coordinate and maintain more efficient workflows for healthcare providers, including scheduling appointments, billing, and ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and accurately. Research has shown the effective results of case management. Studies have shown that 10% of patients make up 70% of healthcare spending. By investing in case management, the coordination of care can include preventive care, such as screenings and treatment for diabetes and high blood pressure. This will go a long way to ensuring that preventable conditions do not turn into chronic conditions. Having access to bilingual case managers ensures that important and complicated health information can be communicated with patients in their preferred language. $150,000 in one-time funding for Asian American and Pacific Islander case management services Recommendation Department Austin Public Health Alignment with Council Strategic Priorities Alignment with Council Strategic Priorities: Health & Environment: Enjoying a sustainable environment and a healthy life, physically and mentally. Health conditions among the public Accessibility to quality health care services (physical and mental) Vote: 12-0 For: Chair Hanna Huang, Vice Chair Sarah Chen, Commissioners Satyajeet Dodia, Padmini Jambulapati, Anna Lan, Pierre Nguyen, Sabrina Sha, …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY-OF-LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240319-014 Date: March 19, 2024 Subject: Recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget related to Community Health Navigators Motioned by: Commissioner Satyajeet Dodia Seconded By: Commissioner Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan Community Health Navigators (CHNs) Description Currently, the City has two Master Agreements MA - 4700 - NG160000053 (since 2017) and MA - 4700 - NG220000094 (since 2022) for Community Health Navigator (CHN) services to the Asian American community that is inclusive of recruiting, hiring, training, direct services of translated health navigation and administration. Both contracts are coming to an end with this fiscal year. The current contractor, Asian American Resource Center Inc. dba Asian American Community Health Initiative (AACHI) is currently providing services to some of the most vulnerable Asian subpopulations including Burmese, Korean, Nepali, Vietnamese, Syrian, Iraqi, and other Arabic-speaking communities. CHN services in these languages are not available from any other agencies or non-profits in the Austin area. The loss or gap in the continuation of these contracts or their replacements would have a detrimental effect in the health inequities for the most vulnerable pockets of the local Asian American community. This recommendation seeks to sustain and increase funding for CHN services to the Asian American community. CHNs provide an essential service for Austin’s Asian community, which has language access needs spanning multiple communities. During the pandemic, a Texas A&M COVID contract supported a local provider hiring three bilingual Community Health Navigators who served the Arabic, Chinese, and Vietnamese-speaking communities. The expiration of the funding period has resulted in less than 150 clients and no dedicated bilingual CHN for the Chinese-speaking community. Navigating the healthcare system can be a challenging task for native English speakers. For non-native English speakers, this challenge can be nearly impossible to overcome. Yet, accessing adequate health care services, is an essential service that some may say is a basic human right. Community health navigators assist Austin’s non-native English speakers in scheduling appointments, filling out required paperwork, applying for and understanding health insurance benefits, and many more essential services. Austin’s Asian community is diverse with many non-native English speakers. The lack of language access services isolates many Austin residents, preventing them from participating in civic life, which can lead to feelings of isolation. The lack of language access services is especially acute when dealing with healthcare. The inability to access adequate diagnoses and care can lead to a multitude of …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY-OF-LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240319-015 Date: March 19, 2024 Subject: Recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for the We All Belong Austin Against Hate Campaign Motioned by: Commissioner Pierre Nguyen We All Belong Austin Against Hate Campaign Seconded By: Commissioner Sonny Sin Description July 2023, the City launched an anti-hate education and outreach initiative called “We All Belong” to streamline access to tools to report hate crimes and incidents, making it easier for community members to keep Austin safe. This was during a disturbing upward trend that has continued in hate crimes in the city that were anti-Semitic, racist, and homophobic and was as directed by council in a 2021 resolution. Just in February of this year, a stabbing attack in West Campus of a group of South Asians was classified as a hate crime after the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR) issued a wide- alert about the context around the crime and held a press release at City Hall following it. Prior to that, news reports did not mention the use of racial slurs and targeting of the victim, who is Palestinian American. Our commission sees the continued need for the We All Belong Austin against the hate campaign and wants to see it continue its reach to along with staying current and updated with current news communities targeted disproportionately for their race, ethnicity, or religion. Recommendation $350,000 in one-time funding is recommended to sustain the program and campaign Department Communications & Public Information Office Alignment with Council Strategic Priorities Government that works for all; Equity of City programs and resource allocation, Safety, Proactive Prevention, Community Trust & Relationships Vote: 12-0 For: Chair Hanna Huang, Vice Chair Sarah Chen, Commissioners Satyajeet Dodia, Padmini Jambulapati, Anna Lan, Pierre Nguyen, Sabrina Sha, Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan, Nayer Sikder, Sonny Sin, Luan Tran, and Lily Trieu Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Commissioners Mohsin Lari and Kuo Yang Attest: ______________________________ Eric Anderson, Staff Liaison
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MARCH 19, 2024 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a Regular meeting on March 19, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Chair Huang called the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:08 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hanna Huang, Chair Satyajeet Dodia Pierre Nguyen Seonhye “Sonny” Sin Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Sarah Chen, Vice Chair Padmini Jambulapati Anna Lan Sabrina Sha Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan Nayer Sikder Luan Tran Lily Trieu Commissioners Absent: Mohsin Lari Kuo Yang PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. 1 Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission on February 20, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of February 20, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Nguyen’s motion, Vice Chair Chen’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioner Tran was off the dais. Commissioners Lari and Yang were absent. Discussion of a 2024 Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Heritage Month proclamation. Discussed. Commissioner Sha offered to work on a proclamation. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Approve the creation of a working group on food security. The motion to approve the creation of a working group on food security was approved on Commissioner Sin’s motion, Commissioner Nguyen’s second on a 12-0 vote. Commissioners Lari and Yang were absent. Commissioners Jambulapati, Sha, and Sin were added to the working group without objection. Approve the creation of a working group related to a GraduAsian graduation event. The motion to approve the creation of a GraduAsian graduation event working group was approved on Commissioner Nguyen’s motion, Commissioner Sha’s second on a 12- 0 vote. Commissioners Lari and Yang were absent. Chair Huang, Commissioner Nguyen, and Commissioner Sha were added to the working group without objection. Select an Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission member to represent the Commission to support the development and implementation of the Imagine Austin comprehensive engagement process. The motion to select Commissioner Lan to represent the Commission to support the development and implementation of the Imagine Austin comprehensive engagement process was approved on Chair Huang’s motion, Commissioner Lan’s second on a 12-0 vote. Commissioners Lari and Yang were absent. Action was taken on Item 6 but was later reconsidered. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 16. Update from the Budget Working Group on potential FY25 Budget recommendations DISCUSSION AND ACTION …
Special CALLED MEETING of the AFRICAN AMERICAN RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION March 19, 2024, at 5:30 pm. City of Austin Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Room 1401/1402 Austin, Texas 78752 Some African American Resource Advisory Commission members may participate in a video conference. Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, in person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration by telephone for remote participation is required by noon the day before the meeting. Call or email Florinda Bryant at 512.974.2715 florinda.bryant@austintexas.gov to register to speak remotely. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Elaina Fowler, Chair (District 10) Daryl Horton, (Appointee) Mueni Rudd (District 2) Dr. Chiquita Eugene (District 5) Serita Fontanesi (District 7) Joi Harden (District 9) Greg Smith (ARA Appointee) Cherelle Vanbrakle, Vice Chair (District 4) Dewi Smith (District 1) Anthony Jackson (District 3) Vacant (District 6) Antonio Ross (District 8) Vacant (AAUL Appointee) Nelson Linder (NAACP Appointee) Roger Davis (GABC Appointee) MEETING AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION The first ten speakers signed up 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 African American Resource Advisory Commission Special Call Meeting on November 28th, 2023. 2. Approve the minutes of the Committee’s Regular Called Meeting on February 6, 2024. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Anne Gatlin Hayes, CTO of Austin Economic Development Corporation, will provide an update on Blocks 16 and 18. 4. Cara Berton, Equity-Based Preservation Plan draft sharing. 5. Chris Duran, Sr Research Analyst; Julie Smith, Community Engagement Specialist with the Housing Department; and Leslie Boyd, Interim Public Health Manager II with Austin Public Health, will share Federal funding priorities for a five-year strategic plan. 6. Amanda Johnston, Executive Director of Torch Literary Arts, will share information on 7. Kim Wright, Manager of Millennium Youth Entertainment Complex, provides updates the organization and the 2024-2025 budget request. on the complex, including impact and budget needs. 8. Azeem Edwin will share a presentation by American Gateways on the services they provide that improve the quality of life for the immigrant community in Austin. 9. Sue Spears, Bethany Cemetery Association presentation on needs of the organization/cemetery and 2024-2025 budget requests. 10. Chase Wright, Hungry Hill …
Discussion on community needs and spending priorities for the FY 24-29 Consolidated Plan for federal grants. Agenda Where Does Our Funding Come From? Planning and Reporting for Federal Funding How We Make Decisions Fair Housing Programs and Activities Overview What We've Heard From the Community Group and Community Input 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 Federal Grants: Planning & Reporting Programs & Activites The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) allocates entitlement funding to municipalities and state governments. The City of Austin applies for what in recent years has been approximately $14 million in annual grant entitlements across four grants for affordable housing, community development, economic development, and public services. Each year, we plan and evaluate the programs funded by the HUD grants. 5 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) 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 6 How are funding decisions made? We are here Community Participation: Community Needs Assessment Available Use of Funding Sources Consolidated Plan Housing Needs & Market Analysis Other Planning Efforts Austin Strategic Housing Blueprint Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice 7 Consolidated Plan Funding Sources Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Goal: Provide decent housing and a suitable living environment; expand economic opportunities for low-income people Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) Goal: Benefit low-income persons living with HIV/AIDS and their families by providing supportive services and housing Consolidated Plan (5-Year) HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) Goal: create affordable housing for low- income households Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) Goal: Assist people to quickly regain stability in permanent housing after experiencing a housing crisis and/or homelessness 8 Fair Housing • 2019 Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (AI) • Potential upcoming "Equity Plan" related to fair housing • Seeking input and surveying on fair housing issues, experiences 9 Programs & Activities 10 Who Do We Serve? Fiscal Year 22-23 Snapshot 64.4% 3,017 # households served FY 22-23 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% 17.5% 16.7% Extremely Low Income (<30% MFI) Very Low Income (31%- 50% MFI) Low Income (51%-80% MFI) 1.4% 81%+ MFI *Income data does …
Torch Literary Arts Amplifying Black Women Writers TorchLiteraryArts.org ABOUT TORCH Founded in 2006, Torch Literary Arts is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization established to create advancement opportunities for Black women writers. We publish contemporary writing by emerging and experienced writers alike in our online publication, Torch Magazine. Our features have gone on to be nominated for the Emmy Awards, the Pulitzer Prize, and have received notable honors including the NAACP Image Award, National Book Award, Lambda Literary Award, and more. Torch has featured work by Tayari Jones, Sharon Bridgforth, Ebony Stewart, Lisa B. Thompson, Crystal Wilkinson, Sapphire, Evie Shockley, Natasha Trethewey, Shay Youngblood, and many others. Our programs include the Wildfire Reading Series, creative writing and professional development workshops, an annual retreat, and special events with community partners like the Texas Book Festival. “...if you are free, you need to free somebody else. If you have some power, then your job is to empower somebody else. ” ― Toni Morrison THE ISSUE Black women writers live and create at the intersection of race, gender, and class. Representation and visibility remain scant across the literary landscape. Creating and supporting spaces for the advancement of Black women writers is vital to ensure our voices are heard and our stories are available for all readers. While Toni Morrison was an editor at Random House, their first female Black editor, the number of Black authors published increased to 3.3 percent. However, the percentage dropped quickly after her departure. Of 512 books published by Random House between 1984 and 1990, only two were by Black authors: Morrison's Beloved and Sarah Phillips by Andrea Lee. One person cannot be responsible for changing the systems that continue to marginalize and silence diverse voices. From hiring publishing executives of color to supporting emerging writers finding their way to the page, we must encourage, empower, and nurture writers of color for inclusive representation on and off the page. Torch Literary Arts works to combat these disheartening statistics and make a meaningful impact in the lives of Black women by encouraging and amplifying their work as writers and industry leaders. 11% In 2018, only 11% of books published were by people of color. New York Times 5.3% In 2023, just 5.3% of people in publishing identified as Black or being of African Decent. Diversity Baseline Survey, Lee & Low Books 8% Only eight percent of literary journals pay contributors. The Millions …
AFRICAN AMERICAN RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION MARCH 5, 2024 Austin History Center (C05767, PICA 24201, PICA 29995); Chen Chen Wu; City of Austin Why Does This Matter? 16% PLAN VISION Historic preservation in Austin actively engages communities in protecting and sharing important places and stories. Preservation uses the past to create a shared sense of belonging and to shape an equitable, inclusive, sustainable, and economically vital future for all. Photos (L-R): Preservation Austin; Marilyn Poole; City of Austin; HUD PD&R Edge Community-Based Process 12 months 22 working group and drafting committee meetings 1,100 working group hours 38 focus group hours 2,200+ staff hours Icons from the Noun Project: Community by Gan Khoon Lay, focus group by mikicon, committee by Adrien Coquet Community-Based Process “Being part of the working group was a great experience mainly because the members had diverse backgrounds, but the same goal. It was a rare learning experience.” Michelle Benavides Ursula A. Carter Linda Y. Jackson Brenda Malik Emily Payne Gilbert Rivera 1 Brita Wallace* 1 Justin Bragiel 2 Mary Jo Galindo* Meghan King* Alyson McGee 1 Rocio Peña-Martinez* JuanRaymon Rubio 2 Bob Ward 1 Noel Bridges Jerry Garcia 1 Jolene Kiolbassa 1 Debra Murphy 2 Misael Ramos* Maria Solis* 1 Caroline Wright 1 *Drafting Committee member 1 Phase 1 only 2 Phase 2 only Julia Brookins* Ben Goudy 2 Kevin Koch Robin Orlowski 2 Mary Reed* 1 Erin Waelder Amalia Carmona 2 Hanna Huang* 1 Kelechi Madubuko Leslie Ornelas 1 Lori Renteria 1 Equity-Based Preservation Plan REVIEWING THE DRAFT Neal Douglass, Oct. 1949, ND-49-346-02, Austin History Center, Austin Public Library. Draft Plan Goals 1. Tell Austin’s full history 9. Proactively identify important places 2. Recognize cultural heritage 10. Follow good designation practices 3. Preserve archaeological resources 11. Support stewardship of community 4. Stabilize communities assets 5. Support environmental sustainability 12. Be strategic with review 6. Engage communities equitably 13. Protect historic resources 7. Support people doing the work 14. Implement the plan collaboratively 8. Engage new partners What We Preserve Parade and mural unveiling (The Austin Chronicle), San Antonio Office of Historic Preservation Think broadly. • Recognize Austin’s rich and complex history through active listening, inclusive research, and interpretation • Better recognize and protect legacy businesses, murals, and archaeological resources • Use preservation tools to support community stabilization and environmental sustainability Who Preserves Invite and support. • Help people access knowledge, resources, and decision-making power • Streamline and …
OUR WORK IN 2023 African American Resource Advisory Commission 03/05/2024 WHO ARE WE? Serving the Austin community for over 30 years - since 1987 Originally known as the Political Asylum Project of Austin (PAPA) 501(C)(3) non-profit Providing immigration legal services, advocacy, and education OUR LEGAL SERVICES... Legal Representation ● Survivors of crime & family violence ● Asylum ● DACA ● Family-based Immigration ● Deportation defense ● Coordination of pro bono representation Pro Se representation ● Translations ● Legal orientation at detention centers & Immigration Court ● Legal clinics & workshops Outreach ● Community education for immigrant community & service providers 12,000+ We served over 12,000 individuals in 2023 with legal services. $1,100,000+ Over $1,100,000 worth of volunteer and pro bono attorney hours leveraged to assist our clients Legal Pro Se Assistance Program - Pro Se I-589 The goal is to complete 48 asylum applications, improving or protecting their immigration status and/or ensuring their right to obtain or maintain employment authorization. ACCOMPLISHMENTS WHAT WE DO Assist individuals with specific legal needs Service any upcoming court appearance or deadline and that can be done with Pro Se Legal Assistance rather than full legal representation. Assist individuals in Removal Proceedings who have Notices to Appear Help those with time-sensitive deadlines for filing applications and forms so they are able to meet deadlines and become eligible for benefits, such as work permits. EXAMPLES OF SUCCESSES IN 2023 ❏ Green card granted to Eritrean national based on marriage to USC spouse. ❏ Juvenile Visa granted (SIJS) to 13-year-old Guatemalan child ❏ Asylum granted to politically active Cameroonian national ❏ Asylum granted to politically active Haitian national ❏ Asylum granted to politically active Venezuelan national ❏ 5-year-old entered on consular processing national Salvadoran immigrant visa after ❏ Many cases of work authorization granted, proceedings removal dismissed, and deferred action for victims of crime granted CITIZENSHIP CLINICS In 2023, our staff took on over 1,000 new cases We represented a family unit that fled the Democratic Republic of Congo and Angola. In DRC, the family suffered horrific harm on account of their political opinion. The father was stabbed and left for dead. They fled to Angola but the daughter suffered harm there. They then fled to the U.S. where the family unit was granted asylum. Jojo was persecuted in his home country after speaking out against a corrupt politician. He traveled through many countries to arrive in …
Block 16 & 18 AARAC Update 3/05/2024 1 Request for Proposal (RFP) Process Focus: Development Team & Vision/Approach Focus: Project Specifics/Finances Phase I Phase II RFP Registration and Release Evaluation Committee reviews proposals and selects a shortlist Evaluation Committee conducts interviews with shortlisted teams Shortlisted teams record short presentation for community feedback AEDC releases requirements and community feedback to shortlisted teams AEDC releases requirements and community feedback to shortlisted teams Urban Renewal Board votes on recommended team City Council votes on recommended team Aug-Oct 2023 Nov 2023 Nov 2023 Dec 2023 Jan 2023 Feb 2024 May 2024 June 2024 Anticipated Schedule: Jan-June 2024 2 East 11th Stakeholder Working Group Representatives Type Renter Resident Owner Resident Property Owner Business Owner Business/ Renter Church Minister Owner Resident/Business Manager Neighborhood Association Organization Miscellaneous Rentals Black Lives Veggies COMMUNITY VEGAN Mount Zion Baptist Church / Baptist Ministers Union KAZI Radio Station Robertson Hill Neighborhood Association Representatives Name Andres Moguel Josh Knowles Beth Puorro Larry Franklin Marlon Riso Darrel Horton Marion Nickerson Paul Stables African American Cultural & Heritage Facility Institution Representative Historic Business Glenn Williams Manager Church Representative Ebenezer Baptist Church Michael Rhone Victory Grill Florinda Bryant Phase 2 Timeline Introduction to Phase 2 RFP • 2 Proposals Advancing to Phase 2 • National and Local Collaboration •Conceptual Vision and Project Team •Final Developer Selection Follows Phase 2 5 Proposing Team Vision : Austin Revitalization Authority / Legacy 6 Proposing Team : ARA / Legacy Please see team’s full presentation, above is only a brief selection BLOCK 16 BLOCK 18 7 7 Please see team’s full presentation, above is only a brief selection BLOCK 18 Perspective view from courtyard BLOCK 18 Perspective view from Juniper and Waller St Proposing Team : ARA / Legacy 8 8 Proposing Team Vision: Servitas/Guadalupe Neighborhood Development Corporation aka: Pleasant Hill Collaborative 9 Proposing Team : Pleasant Hill Collaborative Please see team’s full presentation, above is only a brief selection BLOCK 16 BLOCK 18 10 Please see team’s full presentation, below is only a brief selection BLOCK 16 Adjacent to the Austin African American Culture and Heritage Facility BLOCK 18 Perspective along Juniper St 11 Urban Renewal Board Meetings City of Austin Permitting and Development Center, Wihomena Drive https://www.austintexas.gov/content/urban-renewal-board Next Meetings March 18 at 6:00 PM The Two teams will be Presenting Questions? Please send to Jose Lopez Jose@AEDC.org 12
s THE MILLENNIUM VISIO N & MISSIO N Mis s io n The Millennium was constructed in 1999 to provide a safe space fo r re cre a tio n a l a n d cu ltu ra l a ctivitie s fo r yo u th a n d fa m ilie s o f th e Ea st Au stin co m m u n ity. Ove r tim e m o re th a n 5,000 p e rso n s h a ve p a sse d th ro u gh its d o o rs e a ch m o n th . Th e ve n u e h a s b e e n h o m e to sp o rts co m p e titio n s, film fe stiva ls, b u sin e ss exp o s a n d jo b fa irs, su m m e r ca m p , re ligio u s ce le b ra tio n s, a lo ca l p o llin g ce n te r, a n d h u n d re d s o f p u b lic a n d p riva te fu n ctio n s a n d eve n ts . Vis io n Wh ile th e o rigin a l u se o f th e Mille n n iu m re m a in s co n siste n t, th e fa cility will se e k to exp a n d its p ro gra m m in g a n d re so u rce b a se in o rd e r to fu rth e r se rve th e n e e d s o f a n eve r- growin g co m m u n ity. Ou r visio n m ovin g fo rwa rd is b a se d o n a stro n ge r in te gra tio n o f e co n o m ic in itia tive s, in clu d in g co rp o ra te p a rtn e rsh ip s, fu n d ra isin g, a n d cre a tive re so u rce d eve lo p m e n t will b e …
Budget Request Subject: Request for Budget Allocation for Lawn Maintenance at the Historic Bethany Cemetery Dear African American Resource Advisory Commission, I am writing to request your consideration for a budget allocation dedicated to lawn maintenance for Austin's first African American cemetery. A well-maintained lawn contributes significantly to the overall preservation of this unique and historical space. As we strive to restore the grounds and record the history of the cemetery, we are reaching out to create partnerships with community stakeholders who are committed to preserving the history of East Austin. We must invest in saving the few remaining landmarks that remain in the city. Our goal is to preserve Bethany Cemetery, despite the new developments that are moving in, and the regular maintenance of the grounds is an integral part of the process. However, without regular maintenance, it is susceptible to deterioration, which could adversely impact our mission. I am confident that the proposed budget allocation for lawn maintenance will yield significant returns in terms of improved aesthetics, enhanced functionality for visitors to the site, and prolonged lifespan of the historic headstones. Moreover, it aligns with our commitment to excellence and responsible stewardship of this educational and historical community resource. We propose allocating funds toward the following essential maintenance services: ▪Lawn Mowing: Regular mowing is essential to control the height of the grass to promote healthy growth and enhance the overall appearance of the cemetery. ▪Fertilization and Weed Control: Proper fertilization and weed control measures are necessary to nourish the grass and prevent weed infestation. ▪Seasonal Cleanup: Periodic cleanup activities, including leaf removal and debris clearing, are necessary to maintain a tidy and inviting outdoor environment. By allocating resources to these maintenance tasks, we can preserve the integrity of the cemetery to maximize our preservation efforts, and promote its use to educators, and visitors to our city as well as all stakeholders. Thank you for considering this request. If you require any further information or clarification, please do not hesitate to contact me. Your support in this matter is appreciated. Sincerely, Sue Spears-Martin (512) 300-3675 President, Bethany Cemetery of Austin Bethanycemeteryofaustin@gmail.com Bethany Cemetery Association of Austin Budget Request Description: Funding Request for Lawn Maintenance for the Historic Bethany Cemetery, located at 1308 Springdale Road in Austin, Texas. This request would include but is not limited to cutting the 6.3-acre lot, trimming, and edging all trees, grave markers, and fencing. …
African American Resource Advisory Commission SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES March 19, 2024 The African American Resource Advisory Commission convened in a SPECIAL CALLED meeting on March 19, 2024, in Austin, Texas. Chair Fowler called the African American Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 5:50 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Elaina Fowler, Chair (District 10) Cherelle Vanbrakle, Vice Chair (District 4) Daryl Horton, (Appointee) Dewi Smith (District 1) Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Mueni Rudd (District 2) Serita Fontanesi (District 7) Roger Davis (GABC) Dr. Chiquita Eugene (District 5) Greg Smith (ARA Appointee) PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Ms, Joseph Bill Wallace Chas Moore Sid Johnson Derrick Smith APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the African American Resource Advisory Commission Special Call Meeting on November 28th, 2023. Approve by Vanbrakle and Dewi Smith 1 2. Approve the minutes of the Committee’s Regular Called Meeting on February 6, 2024. Approve by Dewi Smith and Vanbrakle WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 3. Strategic Planning Work Group – Requested follow-up documentation from consultant. DISCUSSION ITEMS Anne Gatlin Hayes, CTO of Austin Economic Development Corporation, will provide an update on Blocks 16 and 18. Anne Gatlin Hayes spoke about the process on Block 16 and 18 providing information and Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the timeline with everything will be completed. 5. Cara Berton, Equity-Based Preservation Plan draft sharing of the community-based process for the Historic Landmark Commission and the different working groups. The group wanted the commission to provide the history around Austin that the community is not aware of. Chris Duran, Department: Analyst; Julie Smith, Community Engagement Specialist with the Housing Department; and Leslie Boyd, Interim Public Health Manager II with Austin Public Health, will share Federal funding priorities for a five-year strategic plan. Amanda Johnston, Executive Director of Torch Literary Arts, will share information on the organization and the 2024-2025 budget request. Ms. Johnson information to the commission about the number of Black Women Writers in Austin working as a non-profit organization. There are programs Wildfire Reading Series, workshops on professional development. 8. Kim Wright, Manager of Millennium Youth Entertainment Complex, provides updates on the complex, including impact and budget needs. Ms. Wright provided information the things they currently needing funding on to bring the MYEC back to the community, for example upgrading the bowling alley and the game arcade. She provided information to commissioners about the theater and how SXSW used …
1. REGULAR CALLED MEETING of the URBAN RENEWAL BOARD MARCH 18, 2024, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1407 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR. AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 *NOTE: The Urban Renewal Board no longer meets at the Street-Jones Building. Some members of the Urban Renewal Board may be participating by videoconference and a quorum will be present at the location identified above. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Courtney Banker, (512) 974-3114 or courtney.banker@austintexas.gov. The Urban Renewal Board reserves the right to go into closed session to discuss any of the items on this agenda as permitted by the Texas Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Manuel Escobar, Chair Darrell W, Pierce, Vice Chair Amit Motwani Jacqueline Watson Kobla Tetey Tam Hawkins CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers who registered to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting, if speaking virtually, 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 URB’s special-called meeting on January 29, 2024 1 of 2 DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion related to updates on future development of Blocks 16 & 18 from Austin Economic Development Corporation, including the Request for Proposals process underway and the teams under consideration (Austin Revitalization Authority and Legacy Real Estate Developers; Servitas and Guadalupe Neighborhood Development Corporation, AKA Pleasant Hill Collaborative) (Anne Gatling Haynes and Jose Lopez, AEDC) Presentation by Team One regarding their response to the Request for Proposals for Blocks 16 & 18 Presentation by Team Two regarding their response to the Request for Proposals for Blocks 16 & 18 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Approve a recommendation to City Council related to the FY 2024-25 annual budget for the Urban Renewal Board EXECUTIVE SESSION Discuss legal matters related to the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of an interest in Blocks 16 and 18 located on East 11th Street in Austin (Private consultation with legal counsel - Section 551.071 of the Texas Government Code) …
URBAN RENEWAL BOARD MEETING DRAFT SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, JANUARY 29, 2024 The URBAN RENEWAL BOARD convened in a SPECIAL CALLED MEETING on MONDAY, JANUARY 29, 2024, at the Permitting and Development Center - 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. in Austin, Texas. Chair Manuel Escobar called the Urban Renewal Board meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Manuel Escobar, Vice Chair Darrell Pierce, Commissioners Kobla Tetey, Jacqueline Watson and Amit Motwani were present. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Commissioner Danielle Skidmore attended remotely. Board Members Absent/off the dais at call to order: Commissioner Tam Hawkins was absent. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No speakers signed up to speak. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the amended minutes of the URB’s regular meeting on December 18, 2023. On Commissioner Tetey’s motion, Commissioner Motwani’s second, the January 22, 2023, minutes were approved with the following amendment, on a 6-0-0 vote. The amendment was to correct the spelling of Vice Chair Pierce’s first name. 1 2. 3. 5. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and possible action related to updates on future development of Blocks 16 & 18 from Austin Economic Development Corporation, including the Request for Proposals process focused on the evaluation criteria and program requirements related to Phase Two of the Request for Proposals (Anne Gatling Haynes, Theresa Alvarez, and Jose Lopez, AEDC) Anne Gatling Haynes gave the update. Discussion and possible action on amending the Memorandum of Understanding between the Urban Renewal Agency and Austin Economic Development Corporation to add the Project fee schedule as an exhibit in relation to the development of Blocks 16 & 18 (Anne Gatling Haynes Theresa Alvarez, and Jose Lopez, AEDC) Anne Gatling Haynes gave the update. Commissioner Motwani requested that the minutes include confirmation from staff from the Housing Department that AEDC’s fees are reasonable and in-line with the market. Mandy DeMayo, Interim Director of the Housing Department, confirmed. On Commissioner Motwani’s motion, Commissioner Tetey’s second, the amended Memorandum of Understanding with Austin Economic Development Corporation was approved with the fee structures discussed on a 6-0-0 vote. Chair Escobar recessed the meeting for Executive Session at 6:11 p.m. 4. Discuss legal matters related to the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of an interest in Blocks 16 and 18 located on East 11th Street in Austin (Private consultation with legal counsel - Section 551.071 of the Texas Government Code) Discuss real estate matters related to …
AUSTIN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION URBAN RENEWAL BOARD DEVELOPMENT PARTNER FOR BLOCKS 16 & 18 • A proposal by : • Austin Revitalization Authority • Legacy Real Estate Development • Monge Capital Vision for Urban Design • This project, a vibrant mixed-use complex, is set to redefine East Austin's Blocks 16 and 18. Orchestrated by a collaboration between the Austin Revitalization Authority, Legacy Real Estate Development, and Monge Capital, urban transformation. is poised to be a beacon of this development • On Block 18, our plan includes the creation of affordable housing, a retail, and ample hub, modern office spaces, dynamic cultural parking facilities. • On Block 16, we will feature a blend of affordable housing, retail spaces, and convenient parking solutions. • Our mission is anchored in the principle of equitable development. We envision this project as a transformative addition to East Austin, creating a dynamic campus that fosters living, working, and recreational activities in a cohesive community environment. • ARA will be the operator of the commercial components of the Project. ARA is a leader in commercial property management in East Austin for over 3 decades. • The development will feature public spaces designed to be welcoming for both the greater East Austin community and the development's residents, fostering an inclusive and vibrant communal environment. Community Impact • Community Impact Initiatives: • Community Responsive Retail • Attract health-focused retail tenants for community well-being. • Attract and promote local small businesses Pursue sustainability with LEED Certification and a minimal carbon footprint. • • Offer diverse community courses in finance, homebuying, mental health, and physical fitness • Offer creative equity ownership alternatives • Local Engagement and Diversity: • Collaborate with The Greater Austin Black Chamber of Commerce and • Actively engage local businesses, share bid opportunities, and organize events. Project goal of 33% MWBE participation. • Host quarterly community meetings on campus to maintain community McKissack engagement • Equitable Development Vision Goal: • Work with Six Square for community engagement and programming. Contracting opportunities for local creatives. Project Team Structure and Experience • Developers - Legacy/Austin Revitalization Authority/Monge Capital • Principal-In-Charge - Legacy • Local Partner - ARA • Architects - Architecture in Formation/Mark Odom Studio & McKissack • Developer Senior Project Manager - McKissack • Design Project Manager - Mark Odom Studio • Planner/Urban Designer - MakeMake | Sekou Cooke Studio • General Contractor – Andres • CM – OHLA+Journey …
Harold McMillan Cultural Advisor PLEASANT HILL COLLABORATIVE Block 16 and 18 VISION TO REALITY PLEASANT HILL COLLABORATIVE – BLOCK 16 & 18 PROPOSAL Harold McMillan Cultural Advisor Sean Garretson Project Manager EXECUTE THE PROPOSED VISION Garrett Scharton Lead Developer $1B HOUSING PROJECTS DEVELOPED 7,500+ HOUSING UNITS DEVELOPED PLEASANT HILL COLLABORATIVE – BLOCK 16 & 18 PROPOSAL MAINTAIN A PROACTIVE PARTNERSHIP THROUGH FINANCIAL OR MARKET CHALLENGES Keep the project in bounds and on target • Units on par with like product • Reduce reliance on private capital and private • gain Tension between code-minimum parking vs lease-up best practices • Ground Lease term that extends beyond the debt term COLLINS PARK PREVIOUS PROJECT Garrett Scharton Lead Developer Gap Financing Utilize to reduce need for public financial support FORTIFY SUBORDINATE DEBT BACKED BY THE PUBLIC ENTITY PURCHASED BY THE DEVELOPER TARGET EMPLOYERS IN NEED PLEASANT HILL COLLABORATIVE – BLOCK 16 & 18 PROPOSAL MAINTAIN A PROACTIVE PARTNERSHIP THROUGH FINANCIAL OR MARKET CHALLENGES Rents Should Cast a Wide Net • • Offer relief on maximum income for breathing room Target whomever YOU want to target on block 18; block 16 conforms with HUD regulations (for example, target lower rents, but allow incomes at higher levels) • Offer that new leases could temporarily reset at higher AMIs, if it cannot maintain debt service • Resident Eligibility is a priority, not a prohibition (be inclusive of the broader community at the bottom of the waterfall) Garrett Scharton Lead Developer o Right to Return & Displaced o HBCU o African American Creatives o Small Businesses, poised for growth o Folks with generational ties to East Austin o Arts / Culture / Music o Any other workers employed within East Austin with priority for income-eligible workers 1 2 3 PLEASANT HILL COLLABORATIVE – BLOCK 16 & 18 PROPOSAL COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS 2 Years of curating a list of potential tenants with confirmed LOIs Arts and Culture Projects and Nonprofits Texas Music Museum Kenny Dorham Mini-museum and Listening Room East Austin Black History Project Austin Black Music Archive East Austin Creative Coalition DiverseArts Austin Professional Musicans (ATX Music Pros) Women In Jazz Association Others TBA for Co-working Space Commercial Cultural/Creative Professionals Deborah Roberts Rejina Thomas—GraphicGlass Marcellus Sapenter Runway Underground/Design Works! Studio DM Profits Monks Jazz Lounge Jon Deas/Gary Clark,jr. Band, et. Al. (structure TBA) Commercial—Ethnic/Culture-based F&B Hoover's Good Eats Nissi Veggie Mex Tony's Jamaican Food PLEASANT HILL COLLABORATIVE – …
MEMORANDUM TO: Boards and Commissions FROM: Kerri Lang, FSD - Budget Officer DATE: January 29, 2024 SUBJECT: FY 2024-25 Budget Process and Calendar ______ The City remains committed to an inclusive annual budget process. Resident and stakeholder feedback, including the various boards and commissions recommendations, guide City leadership during budget deliberations. The FY 2023-24 budget contained investments that aligned to boards and commissions recommendations, budget priority survey results and community conversations. These enhancements included funding to improve maintenance and security at parks, expand the Enhanced Library Card program, continue emergency shelter operations, bolster the capacity of the Downtown Austin Community Court, and renovate Zilker Park restrooms to be more inclusive with an adult-sized changing table. The Financial Services Department’s Budget and Performance Division will continue to coordinate with City departments to review recommendations passed by boards and commissions. To ensure the recommendations are voted and approved by the full commission, please post the approved recommendation to the respective board and commission website, under meeting documents. The deadline for submitting recommendations is March 31, 2024, allowing staff the necessary time to review the recommendations. For your information, the proposed calendar for the FY 2024-25 budget is shown below: • March 31 • May 3 • July 12 • July 24 • August 1 • August 14 Board and Commission recommendations due to the Budget and Performance Division Department budgets due to the Budget and Performance Division Presentation of the FY 2024-25 Proposed Budget to City Council Community Input Sessions at 10am Community Input Session at 3pm Budget Adoption Additional information can be found at www.austintexas.gov/budget. Should you have any questions, please contact our office at BudgetQA@austintexas.gov. cc: Ed Van Eenoo, Chief Financial Officer, Financial Services Department
URBAN RENEWAL BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20240318-005 Commissioner Watson FY25 Budget Recommendation Seconded By: Commissioner Motwani Date: March 26, 2024 Subject: Motioned By: Recommendation Approve the base budget for the Urban Renewal Board (the “Board”) consistent with the approved FY 2023-24 budget, including a 5% increase for inflation, and providing an additional $100,000 to support an initial year of strategic planning initiatives, additional planning, engagement and outreach relating to the African American Cultural Heritage District, for a total FY 2024-25 budget of $152,000. Description of Recommendation to Council The Board’s budget for FY 2023-2024 is $47,956. For FY 2024-2025, the Board requests this base funding amount be increased for inflation and supplemented with funds to support strategic planning initiatives for the Board as well as additional planning, engagement and outreach related to activation and implementation of district specific improvements within the Urban Renewal Plan area related to and supportive of the African American Cultural Heritage District (the “District”) and the vibrancy of a commercial corridor that reflects the heritage and future of the District, building upon the initial engagement accomplished and programs that have been identified for the multi-use project proposed for Blocks 16 and 18. Rationale: Strategic Planning The Board has diligently pursued the tasks assigned to it by City Council when the Urban Renewal Plan (the “Plan”) was renewed in 2018, and has completed its work on the updates to the Plan and the neighborhood conservation combining district documents relating to the Plan area. As the Board has already launched and continues to progress through the RFP process for the development of Blocks 16 and 18 – the final item assigned to it by City Council – the Board desires to explore how it may best support the Plan area and the City of Austin in the future. Many similarly situated urban renewal agencies and boards across the country have transitioned over time into other district support organizations once the goals of their original urban renewal plans have been accomplished. The Board would like to build on the engagement accomplished in the work to date and potentially help transition the momentum into a longer-term district support organization as has been done by similar bodies nationwide. The Urban Renewal Board would like to engage in a strategic planning process to determine its best path forward, from district support specific activities/purposes to potential governance models and requests funding to engage with consultants …
Harold McMillan Cultural Advisor PLEASANT HILL COLLABORATIVE Block 16 and 18 VISION TO REALITY PLEASANT HILL COLLABORATIVE – BLOCK 16 & 18 PROPOSAL Harold McMillan Cultural Advisor Sean Garretson Project Manager VISION TO REALITY Sean Garretson Project Manager Things that keep us up at night • Cost vs source • Demand • Parking • Community PLEASANT HILL COLLABORATIVE – BLOCK 16 & 18 PROPOSAL PARTNERSHIP WITH URB/CITY/COMMUNITY Lessons learned make us a better partner to you, bringing best practices in design, construction, financing and legal structure. 44 PUBLIC PARTNERS SERVED NEW TO THE TEAM Garrett Scharton Lead Developer TERESA BOWYER LIHTC CONSULTANT PLEASANT HILL COLLABORATIVE – BLOCK 16 & 18 PROPOSAL EXECUTE THE PROPOSED VISION Garrett Scharton Lead Developer $1B HOUSING PROJECTS DEVELOPED 7,500+ HOUSING UNITS DEVELOPED PLEASANT HILL COLLABORATIVE – BLOCK 16 & 18 PROPOSAL MAINTAIN A PROACTIVE PARTNERSHIP THROUGH FINANCIAL OR MARKET CHALLENGES Garrett Scharton Lead Developer Keep the project in bounds and on target • Units on par with like product • Student Housing • Affordable Housing • Missing Middle Housing • Affordable, creative commercial • Reduce reliance on private capital and private gain • Gap financing is a tool, not a crutch • • Diverse methods of finance means a diverse neighborhood • Ground Lease term that extends beyond the debt term, but not longer Tension between code-minimum parking vs lease-up best practices PLEASANT HILL COLLABORATIVE – BLOCK 16 & 18 PROPOSAL Rachel Stone Block 16 Developer MAINTAIN A PROACTIVE PARTNERSHIP THROUGH FINANCIAL OR MARKET CHALLENGES Rents Should Cast a Wide Net • Block 16: residential will be 100% affordable housing prioritizing people with generational ties to the neighborhood GNDC waitlist has over 900 people from East Austin trying to return to/remain in their community o o Majority seeking 2- and 3- bedrooms, 50% MFI o Experience in low-income housing tax credit financing and filling gaps with fundraising Block 18: Target whomever YOU want to target on block 18 (arts, culture, music, Huston Tillotson) Offer relief on maximum income for breathing room • • • (for example, target lower rents, but allow incomes at higher levels) Offer that new leases could temporarily reset at higher AMIs, if it cannot maintain debt service Resident Eligibility is a priority, not a prohibition (be inclusive of the broader community at the bottom of the waterfall) • • o Right to Return & Displaced o HBCU o African American Creatives …
1. URBAN RENEWAL BOARD MEETING MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, MARCH 18, 2024 The URBAN RENEWAL BOARD convened on MONDAY, MARCH 18, 2024, at the Permitting and Development Center - 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Manuel Escobar called the Urban Renewal Board meeting to order at 6:09 p.m. with six members present. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Manuel Escobar, Vice Chair Darrell W. Pierce, and Commissioners Kobla Tetey, Jacqueline Watson and Amit Motwani were present. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: No commissioners attended remotely Board Members Absent/off the dais at call to order: Commissioner Tam Hawkins joined the dais at 6:40pm. Since the last meeting, Commissioner Danielle Skidmore resigned from the board. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Nook Turner of Jump On It (BAC) addressed the board regarding the future development of Blocks 16 and 18. Bill Wallace of Tomorrow’s Promise addressed the board regarding the future development of Blocks 16 and 18. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the URB’s special-called meeting on January 29, 2024 On Commissioner Watson’s motion, Commissioner Motwani’s second, the January 29, 2024, minutes were approved, on a 5-0-0 vote. Commissioner Hawkins was off the dais. 1 DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion related to updates on future development of Blocks 16 & 18 from Austin Economic Development Corporation, including the Request for Proposals process underway and the teams under consideration (Austin Revitalization Authority and Legacy Real Estate Developers; Servitas and Guadalupe Neighborhood Development Corporation, AKA Pleasant Hill Collaborative) (Anne Gatling Haynes and Jose Lopez, AEDC) Anne Gatling Haynes and Jose Lopez, Austin Economic Development Association (AEDC), addressed the board. Presentation by Team One regarding their response to the Request for Proposals for Blocks 16 & 18 Team One, (Austin Revitalization Authority and Legacy Real Estate Developers) presented. Following the Team One presentation, Chair Escobar called a recess at 7:10pm. Presentation by Team Two regarding their response to the Request for Proposals for Blocks 16 & 18 Chair Escobar reconvened the meeting at 7:17pm. Team Two, (Guadalupe Neighborhood Development Corporation, AKA Pleasant Hill Collaborative) presented. Following the Team Two presentation, Chair Escobar called a recess at 8:08pm. The Chair reconvened the meeting at 8:26pm. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Approve a recommendation to City Council related to the FY 2024-25 annual budget for the Urban Renewal Board The motion to approve the recommendation to increase the URB’s FY 2024-25 budget from $52,000 to $152,000 was approved …
REGULAR MEETING of the SOUTH-CENTRAL WATERFRONT ADVISORY BOARD MONDAY, MARCH 18, 2024 AT 7:00PM Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr., Room 1405 Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the BOARD/COMMISSION may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely or to listen in on the meeting, call or email Margaret Shaw at (512)-974-6497 or margaret.shaw@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Jim Stephenson, Chair Felicity Maxwell, Vice Chair Conners Ladner, Board Member David Sullivan, Board Member Julia Woods, Board Member Stephanie Bazan, Board Member Isaac Cohen, Board Member Ryan Puzycki, Board Member Vacant , South River City Neighborhood Association Rebecca Edwards, Ex Officio (Housing) Dewitt Peart, Ex Officio(Downtown Austin Alliance) Matiur Rahman, Ex Officio (Transportation) Hopie Martinez, Ex Officio (Financial Services - Real Estate) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1. 2. 3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board (SCWAB) Regular Meeting of the February 22, 2024 DISCUSSION Discussion on a presentation on redevelopment plans for 500 South Congress in a Planned Unit Development (PUD) application by Michael Iannacone of The Related Companies, L.P. Discussion on the proposed South Central Waterfront Combining District with a Density Bonus Program. 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 Margaret Shaw at the Economic Development Department, at (512)-974-6497 or margaret.shaw@austintexas.gov, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board, please contact Margaret Shaw at the Economic Development Department, at (512)-974-6497 or margaret.shaw@austintexas.gov.
SOUTH-CENTRAL WATERFRONT ADVISORY BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 22, 2024, AT 6:00PM The South Central Waterfront Advisory Board convened the Regular Meeting at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Austin, TX 78752 in a hybrid format. BOARD MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE: Jim Stephenson, Chair David Sullivan Ryan Puzycki BOARD MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY: Julia Woods Felicity Maxwell, Vice Chair Isaac Cohen Stephanie Bazan Rebecca Edwards, Ex-Officio Hopie Martinez, Ex-Officio DeWitt Peart, Ex-Officio Matiur Rahman, Ex-Officio CALL TO ORDER Chair J. Stephenson called the Meeting to order at 6:03 pm. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board (SCWAB) Regular Meeting of the January 18, 2024 The motion to approve the minutes was made by Board Member D. Sullivan, seconded by Vice Chair F. Maxwell and approved by a vote of (7-0). Board Member C. Ladner was not present. DISCUSSION 2. Staff presentation on the South Central Waterfront Combining District with a Density Bonus Program by April Geruso of the City of Austin Planning Department. April Geruso and staff from the City of Austin Departments of Watershed Protection, Planning, Housing, Transportation and Public Works, and Parks and Recreation briefed the Board on status of the South Central Waterfront (SCW) Combining District and Density Bonus Program. Discussion on FY2024-25 City of Austin Budget Recommendations. SCWAB staff liaison, Margaret Shaw, provided overview of City budget process and explained all Boards and Commissions may submit recommendations to City Council regarding allocation of resources (funding, staff) by March 31, 2024. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 4. Update from Active Projects Working Group meeting on January 24, 2024 with developer of 500 South Congress. Chair J. Stephenson and Board Member D. Sullivan shared update on their meeting with Michael Iannacone from The Related Companies on plans to redevelop 500 South Congress. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Board action on Combining District and Density Bonus Program from City Planning Department staff (Chair Stephenson, Vice Chair Maxwell) Presentation by Michael Iannacone from The Related Companies on plans to redevelop 500 South Congress. (Chair Stephenson, Board Member Sullivan) Updates from Working Groups (Chair Stephenson, Vice Chair Maxwell) ADJOURNMENT Chair J. Stephenson adjourned the meeting at 8:13 pm. 3.
500 S O U T H C O N G R E S S M I X E D - U S E D E V E L O P M E N T CONFIDENTIAL : NOT FOR UNAUTHORIZED DISTRIBUTION RELATED A G L O B A L R E A L E S TAT E C O M PA N Y Widely recognized as one of the most innovative and prolific developers in the U.S., The Related Companies is one of the most prominent privately-owned real estate firms in the country with over $60 billion in assets owned, managed, or under development. Founded in 1972 by Stephen M. Ross, Related has become a fully-integrated, highly diversified industry leader with experience in virtually every aspect of development, design, construction, acquisitions, management, finance, marketing, leasing, and sales. Led by visionaries who are passionate about real estate and the future of cities, Related Companies has an extensive track record executing complex transactions across the country with the resources necessary to deliver successful development projects. Related’s capabilities include residential development ranging from affordable and workforce housing to luxury rental and for-sale residences; large format retail and industrial developments; hotel and hospitality opportunities; office developments; and unparalleled expertise incorporating all of these uses, along with verdant and reflective open spaces, into dynamic city centers. Headquartered in New York City, Related has additional offices and major developments in Austin, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, San Francisco, Washington, D.C., West Palm Beach, Abu Dhabi, and London - and boasts a team of over 4,000 professionals. WORLD CLASS OPERATOR R E L AT E D E X P E R I E N C E $60+ Billion Real Estate Portfolio Owned, and/or managed, and under construction Innovator in Mixed- Use Development Hudson Yards, Deutsche Bank Center (f.k.a. Time Warner Center), The Square Downtown West Palm, Al Maryah Central, Related Santa Clara, The 78, The Grand Los Angeles and Brent Cross Town 67,500 Residential Units 5,500 luxury condominiums 12,000 luxury rental apartments 50,000 affordable and workforce apartments 30 Million SF of Commercial Space Including retail, office and hotel Focus on Gateway Cities New York, Boston, Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Washington DC, Miami/South Florida, Abu Dhabi, London and now Austin Developer of Hudson Yards, New York The largest private real estate development in US history, 28 acres, including 20 million SF of development 1 LADYBIRD LAKE 500 SOUTH …
March 18th, 2024 South Central Waterfront Advisory Board Item #3 - Discussion on the proposed SCW Combining District and Density Bonus Program Submitted by the Travis Audubon Society The Travis Audubon Society requested this report on bird safe buildings for presentation to the City of Austin and general dissemination within the Central Texas community. It has been prepared by Heidi Trudell, a bird collision prevention researcher and consultant, who in March 2024 was hired as a technical advisor by Guardian Glass. Passing directly over Austin, North America’s Central Flyway serves as the primary migration corridor1 during spring and fall for hundreds of species of birds. Due to this geographic funneling, Texas is home to three of the top ten most deadly cities for birds2 (Houston, Dallas, San Antonio), making it especially critical to proactively preserve biodiversity. Travis County alone has documented 4273 species of birds, which is more than fourteen states4 have recorded. With bird populations in steep decline,5 and 621 million to 2 billion6 birds dying at windows in the US annually, it is critical now more than ever that municipal leaders, especially in ecologically significant areas like Austin, step forward to reverse the trend. Initial steps have already been taken; Austin’s dedication to bird conservation has already been established by committing to meet the standards of a Bird City.7 This includes a pledge to reduce nonessential lighting during migration8 that comes as part of a statewide initiative9 to address the detrimental impact that artificial light at night has on migrating birds. As Austinites are well aware, however, it’s not just birds that need dark skies to thrive; even outside of bird migration, bats are especially sensitive to lighting.10 1allaboutbirds.org/news/heres-how-to-use-the-new-migration-forecast-tools-from-birdcast/# 2news.cornell.edu/stories/2019/04/chicago-tops-list-most-dangerous-cities-migrating-birds 3ebird.org/region/US-TX-453?yr=all 4ebird.org/region/US/regions 53billionbirds.org 6meridian.allenpress.com/wjo/article-abstract/doi/10.1676/23-00045/498924/Evidence-consequences-and-angle-of-strike-of-bird 7austintexas.gov/news/austin-now-designated-bird-city-working-protect-habitats-and-promote-bird-friendly-practices 8traviscountytx.gov/news/2021/2113-lights-out-for-migrating-birds 9tx.audubon.org/urbanconservation/lights-out-texas 10batcon.org/new-paper-suggests-light-pollution-limits-bat-habitat/ The next step is to address the built environment directly. Glass is a dynamic material; it can reflect habitat or be entirely transparent. As a result, birds are unable to see glass11 unless it is modified. Poorly designed buildings dramatically increase the risk of collision. One way to significantly improve the odds of survival for birds living in or migrating through Central Texas is to ensure that buildings meet bird safe standards.12 Every building that is made bird safe - as new construction or a retrofit - will save dozens to hundreds of birds13 per building, per year. Best practices in bird safe building standards align with Austin’s values14 of …
1. SOUTH-CENTRAL WATERFRONT ADVISORY BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MARCH 18, 2024, AT 7:00PM The South Central Waterfront Advisory Board convened the Regular Meeting at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Austin, TX 78752 in a hybrid format. BOARD MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE: Jim Stephenson, Chair David Sullivan DeWitt Peart, Ex-Officio BOARD MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY: Julia Woods Felicity Maxwell, Vice Chair Isaac Cohen Stephanie Bazan Ryan Puzycki Conner Ladner Hopie Martinez, Ex-Officio Absent Matiur Rahman, Ex-Officio Rebecca Edwards, Ex-Officio CALL TO ORDER Chair J. Stephenson called the Meeting to order at 7:01 pm. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board (SCWAB) Regular Meeting of the February 22, 2024 The motion to approve the minutes was made by Board Member D. Sullivan, seconded by Vice Chair F. Maxwell and approved by a vote of (8-0). DISCUSSION 2. Discussion on a presentation on redevelopment plans for 500 South Congress in a Planned Unit Development (PUD) application by Michael Iannacone of The Related Companies, L.P. Michael Iannacone, Executive Vice President, and Dawood Rouben, Vice President, of The Related Companies, L.P. briefed the Board on redevelopment plans for 500 South Congress through a powerpoint presentation and video. No action was taken 3. Discussion on the proposed South Central Waterfront Combining District with a Density Bonus Program. Public speaker Maureen Powers from Texas Audubon Society requested SCWAB consider including in their recommendation “bird safe design” and other elements that support biodiversity in SCW District. No action was taken. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Special called meeting on April 1, 2024 for Board action on Combining District and Density Bonus Program from City Planning Department staff (Chair Stephenson, Vice Chair Maxwell) Updates from Working Groups (Chair Stephenson, Vice Chair Maxwell) ADJOURNMENT Chair J. Stephenson adjourned the meeting at 8:13 pm. The minutes were approved at the April 1, 2024 Special Called Meeting on a motion from Board Member D. Sullivan and seconded by Vice Chair F. Maxwell on a 6-0 vote. (Absent: Board Member S. Bazan and Board Member C. Ladner)
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ELECTRIC UTILITY COMMISSION MARCH 18, 2024 6:00 PM AUSTIN ENERGY HEADQUARTERS/SHUDDE FATH CONFERENCE ROOM 4815 MUELLER BLVD AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Electric Utility Commission maybe 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. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register contact Robin Otto, at Robin.Otto@austinenergy.com or via phone at 512-322-6254. AGENDA Members: Dave Tuttle, Chair Kaiba White, Vice Chair Raul Alvarez Cesar Benavides Jonathon Blackburn Randy Chapman Mick Long Cyrus Reed Vacant Vacant Vacant CALL MEETING TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 5 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 Electric Utility Commission Regular meeting on February 12, 2024. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend authorizing negotiation and execution of a contract for demand response program support and consulting services with CLEAResult Consulting, Inc., for up to three years for a total contract amount not to exceed $2,300,000. 3. Recommend authorizing negotiation and execution of a revenue contract for reclamation services with Austin Metal & Iron Co LP, for up to five years for a total estimated revenue amount of $5,000,000. 4. Recommend approving issuance of a capacity-based incentive to the City of Sunset Valley for installation of solar electric systems on their facilities located at 3203 and 3207 Jones Road, Sunset Valley, Texas, 78745, in an amount not to exceed $119,899. 5. Recommend authorizing negotiation and execution of a contract for mobile medical surveillance and related services with Capitol Medical Services, LLC, for up to three years for a total contract amount not to exceed $500,000. 6. Recommend authorizing negotiation and execution of a contract for an electronic visitor management system with Force 5, Inc., for up to five years for a total contract amount not to exceed $700,000. 7. Recommend authorizing negotiation and execution of a contract for Doble testing equipment and related services with Doble Engineering Company, for up to five years, for a total contract amount not to exceed $586,500. 8. Recommend authorizing negotiation and execution …
Electric Utility Commission RECOMMENDATION 20240318-12 Date: March 18, 2024 Subject: Austin Energy Budget Recommendations Motioned By: Seconded By: Recommendations on the FY 24-25 Budget Description of Recommendation to Council 1. Low-Income Bill Discounts: Low-income residents are struggling with the lack of affordability in Austin and Austin Energy has increased customer bills three times in the past year and a half. Utility bill discounts are one of the limited tools that the City of Austin has available to address affordability. Austin Energy customers pay a dedicated Customer Assistance Program fee for this purpose. The Electric Utility Commission recommends that: a. The default bill discount for customers eligible for the Customer Assistance Program be increased to 15%, as it was during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic; and b. All bill discounts for lower-income residents be paid from the Customer Assistance Program fund, including bill discounts for low-income Community Solar subscribers. 2. Transmission Improvements: Improvements to Austin Energy’s transmission system are essential for mitigating local congestion that increases costs to the utility and customers and for enabling the transition from fossil fuels to clean energy. Austin Energy commissioned a study that identified five recommended types of transmission upgrades. The Electric Utility Commission recommends that these recommended upgrades be implemented as quickly as possible and that sufficient funding be allocated to this need to ensure that that of funds is not a source of delay. 3. Fayette Coal Plant: Austin Energy and the Austin City Council have established that shutting down Austin Energy’s portion of the Fayette coal plant is a top priority. Investing in an asset that the utility is actively trying to shut down is not a prudent use of ratepayer or utility funds. The Electric Utility Commission recommends that the budget not include any investments in Fayette.
