REGULAR MEETING of the DESIGN COMMISSION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2024, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1405 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Design Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Nicole Corona, at 512-974-3146 or nicole.corona@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Jon Salinas, Chair Josue Meiners, Vice Chair David Carroll Nkiru Gelles Kevin Howard Conners Ladner AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Ben Luckens Marissa McKinney Brita Wallace Brendan Wittstruck Vacancy, District 6 The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on October 28, 2024. 1. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation by John Rigdon, Waterloo Greenway, regarding an update on the Palm Park design process. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES Select a representative to serve on the Downtown Commission per City Code § 2-1-140. 4. Update from the representative of the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board regarding the meeting on November 18, 2024. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Note: City Code requires two board members sponsor an item to be included on an agenda. This section of the agenda provides members an opportunity to request items for future agendas. Staff should assume that if there is no objection from other members expressed at the meeting, the members’ silence indicates approval for staff to include on the next agenda. 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 or email Nicole Corona at the Planning Department, at 512-974-3146 or nicole.corona@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on …
1. DESIGN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2024 The Design Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, October 28, 2024, at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, located at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Salinas called the Design Commission meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Jon Salinas, Chair Josue Meiners, Vice Chair David Carroll Nkiru Gelles Kevin Howard Conners Ladner Ben Luckens Brita Wallace Brendan Wittstruck Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Marissa McKinney PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on September 23, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of 09/23/2024 were approved on Commissioner Howard’s motion, Vice Chair Meiners’ second on an 8-0-1 vote. Commissioner Carroll abstained. Commissioner Wallace was off the dais. One vacancy on the dais. STAFF BRIEFINGS 1 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Staff briefing regarding an update on the Corridor Program. Presented by Eric Bailey, Capital Delivery Services Department. The presentation was made by Eric Bailey, Capital Delivery Services Department. Staff briefing regarding the Red River Cultural District. Presented by Donald Jackson, Economic Development Department. The presentation was made by Donald Jackson, Economic Development Department. Discussion and action to recommend the Equity-based Preservation Plan to City Council. Presented by Cara Bertron, Planning Department. The motion to recommend the Equity-based Preservation Plan to City Council was approved on Commissioner Wittstruck’s motion, Chair Salinas’ second on a 10-0 vote. One vacancy on the dais. Discussion and action to recommend to City Council whether the project 305 W MLK, located at 305 West Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, complies with the Urban Design Guidelines for the City of Austin in accordance with Land Development Code § 25-2-586 (C)(1)(a)(ii). Presented by Victoria Haase, Thrower Design. The motion that the project 305 W MLK, located at 305 West Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, does not comply with the Urban Design Guidelines for the City of Austin in accordance with Land Development Code § 25-2-586 (C)(1)(a)(ii) was approved with the following friendly amendments on motion by Commissioner Howard, seconded by Vice Chair Meiners on a 9-0-1 vote. Commissioner Carroll abstained. One vacancy on the dais. The friendly amendment from Vice Chair Meiners was that the project is not in compliance with the following Urban Design Guidelines: AW.5 – Incorporate Civic Art in Both Public and Private Development PS.1 – Protect the …
Palm Park COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT OVERVIEW Context: Waterloo Greenway Engagement Report PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT REPORT Available Online waterloogreenway.org/future Engagement Phases 1 2 3 GROUNDING June 2023–August Complete ENVISIONING September–November Complete CO-CREATING December–April 2024 Complete Project Launches Planning & Outreach Begins Gallery Walk Open Houses (2) Outreach Continues Small Group Conversations (5) Pop-Up Activity: Creek Show Virtual Survey Planning Phase III Review & Analyze Data Design Scenarios Phase III Outreach Public Meeting (1) Project Report Engagement Timeline JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2024 Project Launch Phase I Outreach Begins Virtual Survey Launches Small Group Conversations (Mtg #2) Creek Show Pop-Up Phase III Planning Gallery Walk Open Houses (Mtg #1) Public Meeting (Mtg #3) Summary Report Phase II Outreach Begins Engagement Strategies Tabling Events Flyering Block Walking Email Campaigns Partner Promotion Community Leader Outreach Marketing (social media, e-newsletters, press) Engagement - Overview SMALL GROUP CONVOS SURVEYS DESIGN CONVOS 93 93 30 9 Spanish Speakers + 84 English Speakers 54 Virtual + 39 Paper Surveys Completed 109 Comments 11 Palm School Alum 9 Palm School Alum 2 Palm School Alum TABLING POP-UP EVENT TOTAL ENGAGEMENT 939 1,055 2,024 Phase II Data - Local Representation SMALL GROUP CONVOS SURVEYS Primary Zipcodes: 78702 (Central East Austin–City Council District #3) 78747 (South East Austin–City Council District #2) 78744 (South East Austin–City Council District #2) Primary Zipcodes: 78702 (Central East Austin–City Council District #3) 78747 (South East Austin–City Council District #2) 78701 (Central South Austin–City Council District #3) Phase II Data - Key Themes 632 Total Comments Collected Small Group Conversations How the redesign of Palm Park will transform surrounding areas? Cultural anchor to surroundings Place of gathering and play in East Austin Improve connectivity Honoring place/history of what once was Accessibility for East Austin residents Noise reduction from I-35 Business, neighborhood & Palm School connection Feel of what Palm Park should provide? Welcoming to all Peaceful & tranquil Oasis Family friendly Safe Natural Historic Informative/Educational space Phase II Data - Key Themes 632 Total Comments Collected Small Group Conversations How to reflect history & culture in Palm Park? Murals/monuments/artwork History of East Austin families Honor the pool history Stories from past, present & future Celebrate Mexican American heritage Educational experiences for families Recognition of Palm School Alumni How to use the space in Palm Park? Bridge to Downtown Community gatherings Water Feature Family-friendly space Walking, games, meditation, gardens Rest space from urban areas Connection of East …
DESIGN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2024 The Design Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, located at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Salinas called the Design Commission meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Jon Salinas, Chair David Carroll Nkiru Gelles Kevin Howard Brita Wallace Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Conners Ladner Ben Luckens PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on October 28, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of 10/28/2024 were approved on Commissioner Gelles’ motion, Commissioner Carroll’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Luckens was off the dais. Vice Chair Meiners and Commissioners McKinney and Wittstruck were absent. One vacancy on the dais. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation by John Rigdon, Waterloo Greenway, regarding an update on the Palm Park design process. 1 Presentation was made by John Rigdon, Waterloo Greenway. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Select a representative to serve on the Downtown Commission per City Code § 2-1-140. The motion to select Nkiru Gelles as the representative for Downtown Commission was approved on Chair Salinas’ motion, Commissioner Howard’s second on a 7-0 vote. Vice Chair Meiners and Commissioners McKinney and Wittstruck were absent. One vacancy on the dais. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 4. Update from the representative of the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board regarding the meeting on November 18, 2024. Update was given by Commissioner Ladner. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Discussion and action on the minimum requirements for applicants participating in the Downtown Density Bonus Program. Sponsors: Chair Salinas and Commissioner Howard. Staff briefing on the update to the Great Streets Program. Presented by Jill Amezcua, Planning Department. Sponsors: Chair Salinas and Commissioner Carroll. ADJOURNMENT Chair Salinas adjourned the meeting at 6:52 p.m. without objection. The minutes were approved at the 12/09/2024 meeting on Vice Chair Meiners’ motion, Chair Salinas’ second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner McKinney was off the dais. Commissioners Carroll, Gelles, and Ladner were absent. One vacancy on the dais. 2
REGULAR MEETING of the ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION November 19, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W 2ND ST, AUSTIN, TX 78701 Some members of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Eric Anderson at (512) 974-2562 or eric.anderson@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Hanna Huang, Chair Sarah Chen Zachary Dolling Pierre Nguyễn Alpha Shrestha Seonhye “Sonny” Sin Kuo Yang CALL TO ORDER Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Sarah Xiyi Chen Hailey Easley Sabrina Sha Nayer Sikder Luan Tran AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on October 15, 2024. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. 5. Presentation regarding cultural arts funding from Sylnovia Holt-Rabb, Director, Economic Development Department. Presentation regarding a health assessment project focused on the Asian and Asian American community in Austin, with an emphasis on updating the current Quality of Life survey, from Dr. Shetal Vohra-Gupta and Cheng Chow of the University of Texas at Austin Steve Hicks School of Social Work. Discussion of past and upcoming Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) Community Input Sessions and Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission members attending. Presentation regarding the Central Texas Food Bank Food Access Community Needs Assessment (CNA) and a CNA focus group with Vietnamese community members experiencing food insecurity from Tracy Ayrhart, Vice President of Strategic Insights, Central Texas Food Bank. Approve the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission 2025 meeting location. Update from the food security working group regarding a review of the Austin-Travis County Food Plan and potential recommendations. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 7. 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 …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 15, 2024 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on October 15, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Jambulapati called the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:07 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Sarah Chen Sarah Xiyi Chen Zachary Dolling Hailey Easley Pierre Nguyễn Nayer Sikder Luan Tran Commissioners Absent: Hanna Huang, Chair Sabrina Sha Sonny Sin Kuo Yang PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on September 17, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of September 17, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Sarah Chen’s motion, Commissioner Nguyễn’s second on an 8-0 vote. Chair Huang, Commissioners Sha, Sin, and Yang were absent. None 1 STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding the Equity-Based Preservation Plan from Cara Bertron, Program Manager, Planning Department. The presentation was made by Cara Bertron, Program Manager, Planning Department. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a recommendation to Council to adopt the Equity-Based Preservation Plan. The motion to approve the recommendation to Council to adopt the Equity-Based Preservation Plan was approved on Commissioner Easley’s motion, Commissioner Sarah Chen’s second on an 8-0 vote. Chair Huang, Commissioners Sha, Sin, and Yang were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of the inclusion of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission's approved budget recommendations in the City of Austin FY2025 Budget. Discussed. Discussion of upcoming Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) Community Input Sessions and Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission members attending. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS CONTINUED 6. Approve the creation of a City of Austin FY2026 Budget working group. The motion to approve the creation of a City of Austin FY2026 Budget working group was approved on Commissioner Nguyễn’s motion, Commissioner Sarah Chen’s second on an 8-0 vote. Chair Huang, Commissioners Sha, Sin, and Yang were absent. Chair Huang, Vice Chair Jambulapati, Commissioner Dolling, and Commissioner Sarah Chen were added to the working group without objection. Approve the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission 2025 meeting schedule. The motion to approve the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission 2025 meeting schedule was approved on Commissioner Sarah Chen’s motion, Commissioner Nguyễn’s second on an 8-0 vote. Chair Huang, Commissioners …
Travis County Food Access Community Needs Assessment: Elevating Asian American Voices Dr. Tracy Ayrhart, Vice President of Strategic Insights November 19, 2024 AGENDA • About Central Texas Food Bank • Food Insecurity by the Numbers • Food Access Community Needs Assessments • Next Steps WHO WE ARE • We are the largest hunger-relief organization in Central Texas, and a member of Feeding Texas and Feeding America. • Founded in 1981, the Food Bank provides food and grocery products through a network of nearly 250 nonprofit community partners and direct-service programs, serving about 93,000 people every week • Headquartered in Austin, the Food Bank serves 21 counties in Central Texas, an area about twice the size of Massachusetts. THE FUTURE IS F.R.E.S.H. Our approach to ensure every Central Texan has equitable access to nutritious food. • Provide immediate access to nutritious food • Provide the resources necessary for all Central Texans to access food on their own F Food Access (Distribution and Systems) R Research E Economic Stability S Sustainability H Health (food is medicine) FOOD INSECURITY BY THE NUMBERS: TRAVIS COUNTY • 16.2% of the population is food insecure, or 208,411 individuals • 1 in 5 children are food insecure (55,908) • 1 in 8 older adults are food insecure (23,108) are older adults Racial/Ethnic Composition 65.0% 46.7% 47.7% 33.3% 34.3% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 0% 15.3% 11.7% 10% 6.8% 14.0% 12.2% 7.3% 5.8% Black or African American Hispanic or Latino White Other & 2 or More Races/Ethnicities PLACE-BASED DISPARITIES • Disproportionately high food insecurity along the I-35 corridor, in the Eastern Crescent, and in rural corners of the county • Despite representing only 44% of Travis County’s overall population, these high need areas make up: • 59% of Travis County’s food insecure population • 61% of Travis County’s Black/African American population • 59% of Travis County’s Hispanic/Latino population MISSING VOICES: ASIAN POPULATION • Small sample size in public datasets • Small percentage (2%) of neighbors accessing CTFB services • May face unique barriers, including those related to cultural or dietary needs ELEVATING COMMUNITY VOICES: COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENTS Bell County Launch Feb 2025 Waco July 2023-Feb 2024 Williamson County March – Sept 2024 Travis County Sept 2024 – April 2025 Del Valle May – Nov 2023 Bastrop County June 2024 – Jan 2025 Hays County Jan – July 2024 METHODOLOGY (TRAVIS COUNTY) Create Initial Community Profile Community Discussion …
Cultural Arts Funding Update Economic Development Department November 19, 2024 Agenda Cultural Funding Review Process History Overview (FY24 Funding Requests/Distribution) 1. FY25 Launch Calendar 2. Past and Planned Promotion/Marketing of Programs 3. 4. Highlights of Awardees from AAPI led organizations 5. Questions Noting: All Cultural Funding programs are funded via Hotel Occupancy Tax. There are other programs run in our department, and with Rally Austin (a Local Government Corporation) utilizing other funding sources. Examples: - Creative Space Assistance Fund (General Fund, EDD) - Iconic Venue Fund (Managed by Rally Austin) C I T Y O F A U S T I N Cultural Funding Review Process History Cultural Funding – Reminders 2017: Cultural Funding Program Responsiveness Working Group 2018: Funding cuts for the first time (11%) COA Equity Statement: Strategic Direction 2023 Problem: Address 50 years of inequitable funding distribution. C I T Y O F A U S T I N Cultural Funding Review Process — Community Led C I T Y O F A U S T I N Cultural Funding Review Process – MJR Partners Report https://www.austintexas.gov/department/cultural-funding C I T Y O F A U S T I N Cultural Funding Review Process – Pilot Programs Approved by Arts Commission June 29, 2022 Solution: Holistic Funding Ecosystem addressing past disparities in funding. Note: Current Guidelines for these Pilot programs do not prevent awardees from being eligible in the following year of funding opportunities. C I T Y O F A U S T I N Cultural Funding – Pilot Program Investment Outcomes Grantee Investment by Demographics FY2015 - 2021 C I T Y O F A U S T I N Cultural Funding – Pilot Program Investment Outcomes Grantee Investment by Demographics FY2015 - 2021 Grantee Investment by Demographics FY 2023 - 2024 C I T Y O F A U S T I N Cultural Funding – Pilot Program Investment Outcomes Note: 2015-2021 Investment was 18% Majority Diverse; 25% Equally Led; 57% Majority White/Prefer not to answer. C I T Y O F A U S T I N Cultural Funding Program Overview – FY 2024 Awards $17,475,000 Awarded (FY 25-26 Thrive, FY24 Elevate, FY24 Nexus) $3.3M Increase from previous cycle (FY23-FY24 Thrive, FY23 Elevate, FY23 Nexus) $63 Million In Total Requested Funds 366 Total Awards (FY 25-26 Thrive, FY24 Elevate, FY24 Nexus) 190 New to COA Cultural Funding Awardees 77% Majority Diverse Led 66% Women/Non-Binary …
Health Assessment on the Asian and Asian American Community in Austin Asian American Quality of Life Shetal Vohra-Gupta, Ph.D., MSW, Assistant Professor Cheng Chow, MPhil, PhD Student Steve Hicks School of Social Work The University of Texas at Austin Chinese Americans: 24% (5.4 million) Indian Americans: 21% (4.6 million) Filipinos:19% (4.2 million) Roots in Vietnam (2.2 million), Korea (1.9 million) and Japan (1.5 million) each have a population of at least 1 million. Asian population is on the rise in Texas The number of Asian Americans in Texas increased by 91,921 people from 2022 to 2023, amounting to over 1.7 million people in total. The fastest growing numbers were in the Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos metro area, with 10.5% increase from 2022 to 2023 – First among U.S. metro areas. Source: U.S. Census Bureau Credit: Elijah Nicholson-Messmer Older age groups – the sharpest increase Social services? Healthcare access? Affordability? Chronic health conditions? Caregiver resources? Transportation? Social isolation? Support infrastructure? Source: U.S. Census Bureau Credit: Elijah Nicholson-Messmer Diversity of Asian population in Austin Ethnicity Total Asian Asian Indian Chinese Vietnamese Korean Filipino Pakistani Taiwanese Japanese Nepalese Two or more Asian groups Population 80,245 30,361 15,246 9,659 6,738 4,790 2,135 1,943 1,507 1,412 1,344 1,212 Share 100.0% 37.8% 19.0% 12.0% 8.4% 6.0% 2.7% 2.4% 1.9% 1.8% 1.7% Other Central Asian 1.5% Source: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2022 5-Year Estimates Asian American Health Assessment Health issues identified Obesity, Diabetes, Heart Disease, Cancer, Hepatitis B, Tuberculosis, Behavioral Health, Healthcare Access Barriers Recommendations suggested Improve OUTREACH to subpopulations Focus on PREVENTION Increase ACCESS to health care Provide CULTURALLY SENSITIVE health care Asian American Quality of Life Survey Asian American Quality of Life Survey Major findings (N=2,609) • A majority of the survey participants (90.8%) were foreign-born immigrants • More than 28% of the overall sample had at least one chronic disease • Tobacco use more prevalent among Korean and Vietnamese while Koreans and Filipinos were least likely to engage in physical exercise and a healthy diet. • More than 11% reported an experience of unmet health care needs during the past 12 months (particularly in Koreans [15.4%] and Vietnamese [17.1%]) -inconsistent with the findings from national data (2.8% among Asians) • 20% of the sample reported the need for transportation and interpretation (particularly high in Koreans [29.5%], Chinese [24.0%], and Vietnamese [22.4%]) • The prevalence of mental distress and serve mental illness was 44.2% …
Health Assessment on the Asian and Asian American Community in Austin Shetal Vohra-Gupta, Ph.D., MSW, Assistant Professor Cheng Chow, MPhil, PhD Student Steve Hicks School of Social Work The University of Texas at Austin Chinese Americans: 24% (5.4 million) Indian Americans: 21% (4.6 million) Filipinos:19% (4.2 million) Roots in Vietnam (2.2 million), Korea (1.9 million) and Japan (1.5 million) each have a population of at least 1 million. Asian population is on the rise in Texas The number of Asian Americans in Texas increased by 91,921 people from 2022 to 2023 The fastest growing numbers were in the Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos metro area, with 10.5% increase from 2022 to 2023 – First among U.S. metro areas. Source: U.S. Census Bureau Credit: Elijah Nicholson-Messmer Older age groups – the sharpest increase Social services? Healthcare access? Affordability? Chronic health conditions? Caregiver resources? Transportation? Social isolation? Support infrastructure? Source: U.S. Census Bureau Credit: Elijah Nicholson-Messmer Population growth 33% 45% Natural Increase International Migration Internal Migraiton 22% Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Population Estimates Vintage 2023. Diversity of Asian population in Austin - San Marcos - Round Rock Metro area Population Total Asian Asian Indian Chinese Filipino Japanese Korean Vietnamese ACS 2015 Estimation ACS 2023 Estimation 92,512 28,195 18,549 6,877 2,332 8,188 16,697 5.0% 1.5% 1.0% 0.4% 0.1% 0.4% 0.9% 193,555 81,618 37,099 12,366 2,473 9,893 19,786 7.8% 3.3% 1.5% 0.5% 0.1% 0.4% 0.8% Source: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey Estimates Asian American Health Assessment Health issues identified Obesity, Diabetes, Heart Disease, Cancer, Hepatitis B, Tuberculosis, Behavioral Health, Healthcare Access Barriers Recommendations suggested Improve OUTREACH to subpopulations Focus on PREVENTION Increase ACCESS to health care Provide CULTURALLY SENSITIVE health care Asian American Quality of Life Survey Asian American Quality of Life Survey Major findings (N=2,609) • A majority of the survey participants (90.8%) were foreign-born immigrants • More than 28% of the overall sample had at least one chronic disease • Tobacco use more prevalent among Korean and Vietnamese while Koreans and Filipinos were least likely to engage in physical exercise and a healthy diet. • More than 11% reported an experience of unmet health care needs during the past 12 months (particularly in Koreans [15.4%] and Vietnamese [17.1%]) -inconsistent with the findings from national data (2.8% among Asians) • 20% of the sample reported the need for transportation and interpretation (particularly high in Koreans [29.5%], Chinese [24.0%], and Vietnamese [22.4%]) • The prevalence …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES NOVEMBER 19, 2024 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on November 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 6:05 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hanna Huang, Chair Alpha Shrestha Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Sarah Chen Sarah Xiyi Chen Zachary Dolling Hailey Easley Nayer Sikder Sonny Sin Luan Tran Kuo Yang Commissioners Absent: Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Pierre Nguyễn Sabrina Sha PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL CALL TO ORDER None PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on October 15, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of October 15, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Sarah Chen’s motion, Commissioner Sarah Xiyi Chen’s second on a 10-0 vote. Vice Chair Jambulapati, Commissioners Nguyễn and Sha were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation regarding cultural arts funding from Sylnovia Holt-Rabb, Director, Economic Development Department. The presentation was made by Sylnovia Holt-Rabb, Director, Economic Development Department. Chair Huang requested information on the increase in funding to Asian American and Pacific Islander led organizations. Presentation regarding a health assessment project focused on the Asian and Asian American community in Austin, with an emphasis on updating the current Quality of Life survey, from Dr. Shetal Vohra-Gupta and Cheng Chow of the University of Texas at Austin Steve Hicks School of Social Work. The presentation was made by Dr. Shetal Vohra-Gupta, University of Texas at Austin School of Social Work and Cheng Cho, University of Texas at Austin School of Social Work. Presentation regarding the Central Texas Food Bank Food Access Community Needs Assessment (CNA) and a CNA focus group with Vietnamese community members experiencing food insecurity from Tracy Ayrhart, Vice President of Strategic Insights, Central Texas Food Bank. The presentation was made by Tracy Ayrhart, Vice President of Strategic Insights, Central Texas Food Bank. Discussion of past and upcoming Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) Community Input Sessions and Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission members attending. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve the Asian American Quality of Life …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING of the URBAN RENEWAL BOARD November 18, 2024, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1401/1402 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR. AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 Some members of the Urban Renewal Board may be participating by videoconference and a quorum will be present at the location identified above. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Hunter Maples, (512) 974-3120 or hunter.maples@austintexas.gov. The Urban Renewal Board reserves the right to go into closed session to discuss any of the items on this agenda as permitted by the Texas Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Manuel Escobar, Chair Darrell W, Pierce, Vice Chair Amit Motwani Byron Davis Jacqueline Watson Kobla Tetey Tam Hawkins 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, or who signed up prior to the meeting being called to order if speaking in person, will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Urban Renewal Board’s (URB’s) regular-called meeting on October 16, 2024 1 of 2 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion related to resident concerns regarding the 1500 block of East 12th Street Discussion regarding the request to amend the Urban Renewal Plan to allow additional uses at 1201 E 11th St Discussion related to updates on future development of Blocks 16 & 18 from Rally Austin, including project status and anticipated timeline (Anne Gatling Haynes, Rally Austin) DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and approval of the 2025 regular Urban Renewal Board meeting schedule 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) Discuss real estate matters related to the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of an interest in Blocks 16 and 18 located …
Draft Minutes URBAN RENEWAL BOARD October 21, 2024, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1401/1402 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR. AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Manuel Escobar, Chair Darrell W, Pierce, Vice Chair Amit Motwani Byron Davis Jacqueline Watson Kobla Tetey Tam Hawkins Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Manuel Escobar, Vice Chair Darell W. Pierce, and Commissioners Byron Davis, Jacqueline Watson, Amit Motwani. Commissioner Kobla Tetey arrived at 6:19 pm. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Vice Chair Darrell W. Pierce attended remotely. Board Members Absent/off the dais at call to order: Commissioner Tam Hawkins was absent. CALL TO ORDER Chair Escobar, called the meeting to order at 6:07 pm with five members present. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers who registered to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting, if speaking virtually, or who signed up prior to the meeting being called to order if speaking in person, will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. There were no members of the public to address the board. 1 of 3 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Urban Renewal Board’s (URB’s) regular-called meeting on September 16, 2024 On Commissioner Motwani’s motion, Commissioner Watson’s second, the September 16, 2024, minutes were approved on a 4-0-0 vote, Vice Chair Darell W. Pierce was off the dais. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion related to updates on future development of Blocks 16 & 18 from Rally Austin (formerly Austin Economic Development Corporation), including project status and anticipated timeline (Anne Gatling Haynes, Rally Austin) Anne Gatling Hayes, Rally Austin provided updates. Discussion related to resident concerns regarding the 1500 block of East 12th Street Anne Gatling Hayes led the discussion and the URB requested Liaison contact developer to speak on updates on development plans on following URB meeting. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair On Commissioner Watson’s motion, Commissioner Motwani’s second, Chair Escobar was nominated to continue as Chair and Vice Chair Pierce was nominated to continue as Vice Chair. The motion passed on a 6-0-0 vote. Discussion and approval of the 2025 regular Urban Renewal Board meeting schedule The Urban Renewal Board requested the proposed meeting schedule be provided by Liaison at the following meeting. Authorize delegated representative to sign and execute the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement, and …
URBAN RENEWAL BOARD November 18, 2024, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1401/1402 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR. AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 Jacqueline Watson Kobla Tetey Tam Hawkins CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Manuel Escobar, Chair Darrell W, Pierce, Vice Chair Amit Motwani Byron Davis Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Manuel Escobar, and Commissioners Jacqueline Watson, Kobla Tetey, Amit Motwani, Byron Davis. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: No members attended remotely. Board Members Absent/off the dais at call to order: Vice Chair Darrell W, Pierce, and Commissioner Tam Hawkins were absent. CALL TO ORDER Chair Escobar, called the meeting to order at 6:12 pm. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers who registered to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting, if speaking virtually, or who signed up prior to the meeting being called to order if speaking in person, will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. Daphne McDole addressed the URB about preparation for the 150-year celebration of the Houston Tillotson University. 1 of 3 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Urban Renewal Board’s (URB’s) regular-called meeting on October 16, 2024 On Commissioner Watson’s motion, Commissioner Davis’s second, the October 21, 2024, minutes were approved on a 5-0-0 vote. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion related to resident concerns regarding the 1500 block of East 12th Street Hunter Maples, City of Austin provided the update for the speaker for the December meeting. Discussion regarding the request to amend the Urban Renewal Plan to allow additional uses at 1201 E 11th St Hunter Maples, City of Austin gave the update, provided a status update regarding the process to update the e 11th St NCCD. Discussion related to updates on future development of Blocks 16 & 18 from Rally Austin, including project status and anticipated timeline (Anne Gatling Haynes, Rally Austin) Anne Gatling Haynes, Rally Austin provided updates. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and approval of the 2025 regular Urban Renewal Board meeting schedule On Commissioner Motwani’s motion, Commissioner Tetey’s second, the 2025 regular Urban Renewal Board meeting schedule was approved on a 5-0-0 vote. 2 of 3 EXECUTIVE SESSION Chair Escobar recessed the regular meeting and called the Executive Session to order at 6:45pm. 6. Discuss legal matters related to the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of an interest in Blocks 16 and 18 located …
REGULAR MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION November 18 , 2024 – 6P.M. University Hills Branch Library 4721 Loyola Lane Austin, Texas This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and online virtual participation. Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Magen Davis Kezia Frayjo Andrea Herrera Moreno Mark Smith AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Steve DeRosa Melissah Hasdorff Cristina Masters The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Library Commission's regular meeting on October 28, 2024. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing on Library Community Engagement by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian, Austin Public Library 1. 2. Staff briefing on the November Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries, Austin Public Library. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve a recommendation in support of Austin Public Library’s hotspot circulation 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 Laura Polio at the Austin Public Library Department, at 512-974-9624 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Library Commission, please contact Laura Polio at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov. 3.
LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20241118-004 Date: 11/18/2024 Subject: Increase the spending total allowed by Austin Public Library on the existing City of Austin wireless contract. Motion By: Commissioner Davis Seconded By: vice Chair Mehta Recommendation Grant additional authority to increase the spending total allowed by Austin Public Library on the existing City of Austin wireless contract. Description of Recommendation to Council The Austin Library Commission recommends that Austin City Council supports the request for council approval from Austin Public Library and grants additional authority to increase the spending total allowed on the existing City of Austin wireless contract. Rationale: The Austin Library Commission strongly recommends that the Austin City Council approve the request from Austin Public Library (APL) to increase the spending total on the existing wireless contract. This approval would allow APL to order 500 brand-new 5G Wi-Fi hotspots and gain access to an online management portal, enhancing the Library’s ability to serve the community’s digital needs. These new devices would replace the current hotspots, which are reaching the end of their useful life and are no longer able to meet the high demand from Austin residents. APL would cover the monthly service fees for these devices through its existing budget. The demand for Wi-Fi hotspots is significant, with a current waitlist of 234 people for just 29 available devices. Originally, APL had a larger pool of hotspots, but many have been lost, damaged, or are no longer functioning. By increasing the number of available devices, APL will be better positioned to meet the needs of underserved communities, providing equitable access to digital resources for those who may otherwise have limited or no internet access. Their goal is to add at least 300 new devices into circulation by January 2025, if not sooner, and assign additional devices to library branches for outreach services that help serve the community more broadly. This initiative supports Austin's broader digital equity goals, which were recently recognized by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) when the City of Austin was named a 2023 Digital Inclusion Trailblazer. Austin earned this designation for its ongoing efforts to close the digital divide and provide residents with affordable internet access, devices, and digital literacy programs. The City’s commitment to digital inclusion is evident in its support of various programs, such as the Technology Opportunities Program, the Community PC Program, and digital literacy training initiatives through partners like Austin Free-Net. …
N O V E M B E R 1 8 , 2 0 2 4 C O M M U N I T Y E N G A G E M E N T L a u r a T a d e n a C o m m u n i t y E n g a g e m e n t L i b r a r i a n THE POWER OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT B u i l d t r u s t a n d r e l a t i o n s h i p s F o s t e r s i n c l u s i o n a n d a m p l i f i e s v o i c e s R e f l e c t s c o m m u n i t y n e e d s D r i v e s i n n o v a t i o n a n d r e l e v a n c e I m p r o v e s a c c e s s a n d s t r e n g t h e n s o u t c o m e s STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT A P L M I S S I O N & V I S I O N M i s s i o n : I n s p i r e a l l t o d i s c o v e r , l e a r n , a n d c r e a t e . V i s i o n : B e a m o d e l o f e q u i t y , d i v e r s i t y , a c c e s s , a n d i n c l u s i o n . P U R P O S E A N D G O A L A s s e s s a n d e n h a n c e h o w e f f e c t i v e l y A P L e n g a g e s w i t h …
1 Director’s Report November 2024 TABLE OF CONTENTS Highlights ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….1 Facilities Update ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………3 Capital Projects Update …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..3 Gallery ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..4 APL Data & Numbers ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….5 Programs ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………….6 Cardholders & Visitors …………………………………………………………………………………….……………………………………………….7 Circulation………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………..8 Check Outs & Conference Rooms……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..9 Platforms & Tech ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……..10 Volunteers.………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………………………………….………………….11 Budget & Expenditures .………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….11 HIGHLIGHTS APL Hosts Netherlands & Dutch Caribbean APL hosted an International Study Visit for 24 library professionals from the Netherlands and Dutch Caribbean. The four-day event featured collaborative roundtables, in-depth discussions with APL's Executive Leadership Team, and presentations on community engagement, school partnerships, and outreach strategies led by Jennifer Peters, Laura Tadena, Jenny Stirrat, and Melissa Sanchez. The group visited library locations, including the Central Library, St. John Branch, Windsor Park Branch, Terrazas Branch, Austin History Center, and African American Cultural and Heritage Facility. The group also had the opportunity to tour Austin City Hall and view the People's Gallery. The event concluded with a reflection session, which helped to foster cross-cultural insight and innovative approaches to library services. Nature Smart Libraries New Project! Pollinator Garden at Ruiz and Cepeda Branch Libraries Austin Public Library is in the planning and design stage of installing pollinator gardens at both Ruiz and Cepeda. The gardens will serve as a resource for educating the community about the importance of pollinators and connecting people with nature APL and Roots and Wings! APL is participating in the Roots and Wings Festival and is offering a variety of programs that highlight nature, creativity, and environmental stewardship. One highlight is the Urban Forest Explorers Nature Play Kit, which was made possible by a Roots and Wings grant. The kits will circulate with PARD’s Loose Parts Kit and will also be available in the youth areas of Cepeda, Ruiz, and Twin Oak Branch Libraries throughout the festival. APL Branch and Librarian Spotlight - Kayla De La Portilla @ Terrazas Branch Terrazas recently completed its renovation and the children's area now includes elements of nature play in the space. Kayla De La Portilla, Youth Librarian, has helped transform the area by introducing engaging, hands-on activities that connect children with the natural world. African American Cultural and Heritage Facility (AACHF) The AACHF recently played host to the City of Austin's Equity Office for their "Equity 101" workshop, a pivotal event aimed at fostering, understanding and promoting inclusivity within the community. This workshop provided participants with foundational knowledge on equity principles, highlighting the importance of addressing …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes October 28, 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES 28 OCTOBER 2024 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, October 28, 2024, at the John Gillum Branch Library, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair, Sheila Mehta, Vice- Chair, Melissah Hasdorff, Andrea Herrera Moreno Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: Magen Davis, Mark Smith Commission Members Absent: Steve DeRosa, Kezia Frayjo, Christina Masters PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León spoke to the Commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the September 23, 2024, special called meeting. The minutes from the special called meeting of September 23, 2024, were approved with amendments on a motion by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Vice Chair Mehta, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners DeRosa, Frayjo, and Masters absent. The amendments were as follows: 1. Corrections to the spelling of “African” in the first sentence of the minutes. Library Commission Meeting Minutes October 28, 2024 2. Correction of Commissioner Herrera Moreno’s name in the Approval of Minutes and Discussion and Action Items sections’ 3. Capitalization of the word “Commission” in the Public Comment and Staff Briefing Sections 4. Addition of the statement, “Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding approval of minutes concerns” in the Approval of Minutes section. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding approval of minutes concerns. STAFF BRIEFINGS Librarian III. 2. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Summer 2024 Programming by Alanna Graves, The presentation was made by Alanna Graves, Librarian III. 3. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Bond Progress Update by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager. The presentation was made by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager. 4. Staff briefing on the October Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The presentation was made by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approval of the 2025 Library Commission Meeting Schedule The motion to approve the 2025 Library Commission Meeting Schedule was approved on Commissioner Smith’s motion, Commissioner Herrera Moreno’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner DeRosa, Frayjo, and Masters absent. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 6. Update from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group. The update was given by Commissioner Herrera Moreno. Carlos León provided public …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes November 18, 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 18 NOVEMBER 2024 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, November 18, 2024, at the University Hills Branch Library, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair, Sheila Mehta, Vice- Chair, Melissah Hasdorff, , Mark Smith, Magen Davis, Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: Steve DeRosa, Andrea Herrera Moreno, Kezia Frayjo, Christina Masters Commission Members Absent: PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León spoke to the Commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the October 28, 2024, special called meeting. The minutes from the regular meeting on October 28, 2024, were approved on a motion by Commissioner Smith, seconded by Vice Chair Mehta, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner DeRosa and Herrera Moreno absent during approval. Library Commission Meeting Minutes STAFF BRIEFINGS November 18, 2024 2. Staff briefing on Library Community Engagement by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian, Austin Public Library The presentation was made by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian, Austin Public Library. 3. Staff briefing on the November Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The presentation was made by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve a recommendation in support of Austin Public Library’s hotspot circulation program. The motion to increase the spending total allowed by Austin Public Library on the existing City of Austin wireless contract was approved with the following amendment on Commissioner Davis’s motion, Commissioner Hassdorf’s second, on a 9-0 vote. The amendment was: to remove the name T-Mobile from the language. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 2026 Bond School Partnerships Nature Smart Programming Language Access Immigrant Services Passport Services Strategic Plan Roadshow Digital Inclusion Equity Initiatives Adult Programming Civic Engagement Signature Cultural Programming Budget Austin History Center Innovation Lab Poet Laureate ADJOURNMENT Chair Infante Huerta adjourned the meeting at 7:14 p.m. without objection. Library Commission Meeting Minutes November 18, 2024 The minutes from the November 18, 2024, regular meeting were approved at the December 16, 2024, meeting on a motion by Commissioner Herrera Moreno, seconded by Commissioner Smith, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner DeRosa and Frayjo absent.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ELECTRIC UTILITY COMMISSION November 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 Amy Everhart, at Amy.Everhart@AustinEnergy.com or via phone at 512-322-6087. AGENDA Members: Dave Tuttle, Chair Kaiba White, Vice Chair Ayo Akande Raul Alvarez Cesar Benavides Jonathon Blackburn Randy Chapman Chris Kirksey Cyrus Reed Joshua Rhodes 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 October 21, 2024. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend approval of a resolution authorizing the filing of eminent domain proceedings and payment to acquire the property interests needed for the Cap Ex South, CKT987&1031 Structure Relocation 2021 Project for the public use of relocating various structures along the existing circuits 926, 927, 987, and 988 requiring relocation to accommodate the Texas Department of Transportation expansion of Interstate Highway 35 (I-35) as part of its I-35 Capital Express program, requiring the acquisition of 0.3596 of one acre (15,662 square feet) of permanent electric transmission and distribution easement, being out of the Santiago Del Valle Survey, Abstract No. 24, being a portion of the remainder of Lot 1, Block A, Amended Plat of Lots 1, 2, 5 and 6 of the South Bend Subdivision, a Subdivision recorded November 13, 2001, in Document No. 200100339, Official Public Records, Travis County, Texas, currently appraised at $839,319 subject to an increase in value based on updated appraisals or a Special Commissioners’ award. The owner of the needed property is the Housing Authority of the City of Austin. The property is located at 8515 South I-35, Austin, Texas 78744. The property is currently appraised at $839,319 and the general route of the project is along Interstate-35 from State Highway 71 south to State Highway 45. Funding: Funding is …
..Body Posting Language ..Title Approve a resolution authorizing the filing of eminent domain proceedings and payment to acquire the property interests needed for the Cap Ex South, CKT987&1031 Structure Relocation 2021 Project for the public use of relocating various structures along the existing circuits 926, 927, 987, and 988 requiring relocation to accommodate the Texas Department of Transportation expansion of Interstate Highway 35 (I- 35) as part of its I-35 Capital Express program, requiring the acquisition of 0.3596 of one acre (15,662 square feet) of permanent electric transmission and distribution easement, being out of the Santiago Del Valle Survey, Abstract No. 24, being a portion of the remainder of Lot 1, Block A, Amended Plat of Lots 1, 2, 5 and 6 of the South Bend Subdivision, a Subdivision recorded November 13, 2001, in Document No. 200100339, Official Public Records, Travis County, Texas, currently appraised at $839,319 subject to an increase in value based on updated appraisals or a Special Commissioners’ award. The owner of the needed property is the Housing Authority of the City of Austin. The property is located at 8515 South I-35, Austin, Texas 78744. The property is currently appraised at $839,319 and the general route of the project is along Interstate-35 from State Highway 71 south to State Highway 45. Funding: Funding is available in the Capital Budget of Austin Energy. Lead Department Financial Services Department Fiscal Note Funding is available in the Capital Budget of Austin Energy. For More Information: Michael Gates, Financial Services Department, (512) 974-5639; Brandon Williamson, Financial Services Department, (512) 974-5666; Amy Everhart, Austin Energy (512) 322-6087; Elaine Veselka, Austin Energy, (512) 322-6667; Tina Little, Austin Energy, (512) 322-6396. Council Committee, Boards, and Commission Action: November 18, 2024 - To be reviewed by the Electric Utility Commission. Additional Backup Information: Various structures along the existing circuits 926, 927, 987, and 988 require relocation to accommodate the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) expansion of Interstate Highway 35 (I-35) as part of its I-35 Capital Express program. TxDOT’s I-35 Capital Express South project runs along I-35 from State Highway 71 south to State Highway 45. The relocation of the circuit adjacent to the properties located at 6900 and 6940 South I-35 requires the City to purchase an electric easement across Lots 1, 2, 5, and 6 of the South Bend Subdivision, a Subdivision recorded November 13, 2001, in Document No. 200100339, Official Public Records, …
..Body Posting Language ..Title Authorize negotiation and execution of all documents and instruments necessary or desirable to acquire a permanent electric transmission and distribution easement consisting of approximately 0.1952 acres (8,505 square feet) of land and a 12-month temporary construction easement consisting of approximately 0.0280 acres (1,220 square feet) of land, out of the William Cannon League Survey No. 19, Abstract No. 6, generally located at 8300 South Interstate Highway 35, Austin, Texas 78745, and being a portion of the remainder of Lot 3A, Mrs. Sosa J. Spillmann Estate, a subdivision recorded in Book 8, Page 15 of the Plat Records of Travis County, Texas, from Hazel Rose Investments Limited Partnership, in an amount not to exceed $549,900, including closing costs. Funding: Funding is available in the Capital Budget of Austin Energy. Lead Department Financial Services Department Fiscal Note Funding is available in the Capital Budget of Austin Energy. For More Information: Michael Gates, Financial Services Department, 512-974-5639; Brandon Williamson, Financial Services Department, 512-974-5666; Amy Everhart, Austin Energy, Director, Local Government Issues (512) 322- 6087; Elaine Veselka, Austin Energy, VP Electric Systems Engineering and Technical Services, (512) 322- 6667; Tina Little, Austin Energy, Director, Electric Systems and Shared Services, (512) 322-6396. Council Committee, Boards, and Commission Action: November 18, 2024 - To be reviewed by the Electric Utility Commission. Additional Backup Information: Various structures along the existing circuits 926, 927, 987, and 988 require relocation to accommodate the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) expansion of Interstate Highway 35 (I-35) as part of its I-35 Capital Express program. TxDOT’s I-35 Capital Express South project runs along I-35 from State Highway 71 south to State Highway 45. The relocation of the circuit adjacent to the property at 8300 South I-35 requires the City to purchase an electric easement and a temporary construction easement out of the William Cannon League Survey No.19, Abstract No.6, Travis County, Texas, being a portion of the remainder of Lot 3A, Mrs. Sosa J. Spillmann Estate, a subdivision recorded October 15, 1956, in Book 8, Page 15 of the Plat Records, Travis County, Texas. An independent, third-party appraisal was procured to establish the fair-market value of the proposed acquisition. The appraisal supports the purchase price of $545,659. The amount of the purchase price plus closing costs is not to exceed $549,900.
..Body Posting Language ..Title Authorize negotiation and execution of an amendment to the professional services agreement for engineering services for the Austin Energy Staff Augmentation Engineering and Related Engineering Services for Electric System Engineering and Technical Services Rotation List with the following two firms (or other qualified responders): HDR Engineering, Inc. and Allegis Group Holdings, Inc. in the amount of $22,500,000 for a total contract amount not to exceed $70,875,000. Funding: -Funding is available in the Capital Budget of Austin Energy. Lead Department Financial Services Department. Managing Department Austin Energy. Amount and Source of Funding Funding is available in the Capital Budget of Austin Energy. Purchasing Language: Two contracts were awarded through a qualifications-based selection process. MBE / WBE: This amendment will be awarded in compliance with City Code 2-9B (Minority Owned and Women Owned Business Enterprise Procurement Program). Current participation to date is 3.85% MBE and 2.98% WBE. Prior Council Action: September 1, 2022 - Council approved an amendment to the professional services agreement with HDR Engineering, Inc. and Allegis Group Holdings, Inc. for the AE Staff Augmentation, Engineering and Related Engineering Services for Electric System Engineering and Technical Services Rotation List. June 10, 2021 - Council approved a professional services agreement with Allegis Group Holdings, Inc., for the AE Staff Augmentation, Engineering and Related Engineering Services for Electric System Engineering and Technical Services Rotation List. March 4, 2021 - Council approved a professional services agreement with HDR Engineering, Inc., and POWER Engineers, Inc. for the AE Staff Augmentation, Engineering and Related Engineering Services for Electric System Engineering and Technical Services Rotation List. For More Information: Direct questions regarding this Recommendation for Council Action to the Financial Services Department – Central Procurement at: FSDCentralProcurementRCAs@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2500. Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action: November 18, 2024 – To be reviewed by the Electric Utility Commission. Additional Backup Information: The firms serve as professional consultants, providing technical consultation and advice for the Electric System Engineering and Technical Services group of Austin Energy. Services generally include producing turnkey project and construction drawing packages, as well as providing engineering, technical and drafting personnel to augment Austin Energy workspaces. The work products produced by this contract directly help Austin Energy safely deliver clean, affordable, and reliable energy to customers. These services include, but are not limited to, the following: • Transmission Design • Substation Design • Switchyard Design for Clean Energy Interconnects • Relay …
Electric Utility Commission Resolution 20241118-XXX on Austin Energy Resource Plan WHEREAS, on August 8, 2019, the Austin City Council adopted a resolution declaring a climate emergency and calling “for an immediate emergency mobilization to restore a safe climate” and directing the city manager to take a number of steps to accelerate local greenhouse gas emissions reductions, including from Austin Energy; and WHEREAS, in 2020, the Austin City Council adopted the Austin Energy Resource, Generation and Climate Protection Plan to 2030, which states that “Austin Energy will maintain an energy supply portfolio sufficient to offset customer demand while eliminating carbon and other pollutant emissions from its electric generation facilities as rapidly as feasible within the limitations set by the Austin City Council.” and states that “and all generation resources will be carbon-free by 2035;” and WHEREAS, the Austin Energy Resource, Generation and Climate Protection Plan to 2030 also states that “Austin Energy will no longer purchase, contract for or build long-term generation or storage resources that emit new carbon”; and WHEREAS, in 2021, the Austin City Council adopted the Austin Climate Equity Plan, which includes community-wide greenhouse gas reduction goals to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040, with about 75% reduction by 2030; and WHEREAS, electrification is a key strategy for reducing and eliminating greenhouse gas emissions in many sectors and Carbon-Free electricity is needed to achieve those goals; and WHEREAS, on June 8, 2023, the Austin City Council adopted a resolution endorsing the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty and a plan for “transitioning to a 100 percent clean energy economy, phase out fossil fuel production, and invest in communities on the frontlines of environmental injustice;” and WHEREAS, ground level ozone and particulate matter air pollution in the Austin region already exceed the health-based standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and CAPCOG has identified that increased NOx emissions from electric generating units, including Austin Energy's power plants, as highly correlated with high local ozone measurements; and WHEREAS, the Austin Energy Resource, Generation and Climate Protection Plan to 2030 references an affordability goal and affordability remains important to many customers, but the workshops that Austin Energy hosted as part of this process to update the Austin Energy Resource, Generation and Climate Protection Plan revealed that a large majority of participants are supportive of allowing rate increases beyond the current goal of two percent per year, so long as low-income customers are shielded …
REGULAR MEETING of the AUSTIN-TRAVIS COUNTY FOOD POLICY BOARD MONDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2024, 6:00 PM CITY OF AUSTIN PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1406 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Austin Travis County Food Policy Board may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Amanda Rohlich, 512-974-1364, Amanda.Rohlich@austintexas.gov. Larry Franklin Hilda Gutierrez Kacey Hanson Natalie Poulos Matt Simon Andrew Smith CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Andrea Abel Lisa Barden, Vice-Chair Marissa Bell Mark Bethell Joi Chevalier, Chair Beth Corbett AGENDA CALL TO ORDER 1. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Board member roll call. 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 the minutes of the Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board Regular Meeting from Monday, October 21, 2024. 2. 3. STAFF BRIEFINGS Briefing on Strategy 9.1 of the Austin Travis County Food Plan (Launch an inclusive, community-based food collaborative or network that brings together businesses, community-based organizations, educational institutions, government, funders, and other stakeholders to support the implementation of the Austin/Travis County Food Plan, prioritizing community involvement on a regular basis.), Edwin Marty, Food Policy Manager, City of Austin. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Continue conversation from September and October Strategic Planning meetings and discuss Board Members’ priority strategies from the Austin/Travis County Food Plan. 5. Review Board Member Assignments FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Discussion and scheduling of 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 Amanda Rohlich at Office of Sustainability, at 512-974-1364, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board, please contact Amanda Rohlich at Office of Sustainability, at 512-974-1364.
A Food Plan for Austin-Travis County ATCFPB November 2024 Austin/Travis County Food Planning Process Planning Team Coordinating and Project Managing the Planning Process ● ● ● ● ● ● City of Austin staff Travis County staff Consultant Team Equity Consultants Austin Travis Food Policy Board Executive Leadership Team Issue Area Groups Goal and Strategy Development Community Food Ambassadors Community Connections Community Advisory Committee ( CAC ) Advisory body overseeing the planning process Public Engagement General Public and Community Input The Public Engagement Phases We are here IFC from Austin City Council ● Develop an asset map of available resources and current food ● Create a roadmap with actionable steps for the City to prioritize and ● Identify ongoing funding and partnership opportunities to implement system conditions lead Plan strategies ● Continue to engage and support community-based organizations, school districts and higher education entities, small and large businesses, faith communities, grassroots initiatives, and individual community members to collaboratively achieve all goals within the Plan ● Identify and clearly define leadership roles and responsibilities for implementation of the various strategies within the Plan, including defining metrics and measurements of success, to return to Council with an update by March 2025, and to thereafter provide biannual updates on the implementation of the Plan ● Identify and prioritize the strategies within the Plan that address racial inequities and have a large impact on displacement, food access and insecurity, food workers, emergency food preparedness and response, and agricultural land ● Identify funding in the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget for investment in and implementation of the Plan and to identify strategy priorities to be included as part of the next bond package ● Before the end of the Plan’s initial five-year time frame, the City Manager is directed to work with the Austin Travis County Food Policy Board and Plan partners to assess the state of the Plan and provide a recommendation to update the Plan accordingly Insert IFC Gant Chart Strategy 9.1 Launch an inclusive, community-based food collaborative or network that brings together businesses, community-based organizations, educational institutions, government, funders, and other stakeholders to support the implementation of the Austin/Travis County Food Plan, prioritizing community involvement on a regular basis Approach ● City and County staff are exploring a funding opportunity for an implementation coalition ● Staff are scoping and negotiating specifics and hope to have more detail before the end of the year ● …
Austin/Travis County Food Policy Board MEETING MINUTES November 18, 2024 The Austin/Travis County Food Policy Board (ATCFPB) convened on Monday, November 18, at the City of Austin Permitting and Development Center, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Room 1406, Austin, TX 78752. Board Members in Attendance: Andrea Abel, Lisa Barden, Marissa Bell, Mark Bethell, Joi Chevalier, Beth Corbett, Larry Franklin, Hilda Gutierrez, Kacey Hanson, Natalie Poulos, Matt Simon, Andy Smith Board Members Absent: None Staff in Attendance: Edwin Marty (City of Austin), Amanda Rohlich (City of Austin), Angela Baucom (City of Austin), Yaira Robinson (Travis County) CALL TO ORDER Chair Joi Chevalier called the meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION Elysa Hammond – Speaking to making all food solutions a climate solution. Treat energy like an ingredient in our food system. Beth Taylor – Tempeh producer. In support of Texas VegFest Tara Notvest – Vegan food festival coming to Austin in 2025, Seed Food and Wine Festival. Adrienne Wesk – Works with Texas VegFest and looking for City support especially around permitting and fees. APPROVAL OF MINUTES STAFF BRIEFINGS 1. Board Member Mark Bethell motioned to approve the meeting minutes from the Regular Meeting on October 21, 2024, with Board Member Matt Simon, seconding the motion. Minutes passed on an 12-0 vote. 2. Briefing on Strategy 9.1 of the Austin Travis County Food Plan (Launch an inclusive, community-based food collaborative or network that brings together businesses, community-based organizations, educational institutions, government, funders, and other stakeholders to support the implementation of the Austin/Travis County Food Plan, prioritizing community involvement on a regular basis.), Edwin Marty, Food Policy Manager, City of Austin. [See back-up materials for presentation.] DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Continue conversation from September and October Strategic Planning meetings and discuss Board Members’ priority strategies from the Austin/Travis County Food Plan. Larry Franklin left the dais at 7:03 pm 4. Review Board Member Assignments a. Staff to share information of what departments are already doing related to the food plan (likely available in December/January). County to work towards this in early 2025. b. Staff to ask City Clerk about the process of how the City Manager reviews and incorporates Board and Commission Budget Recommendations that are submitted in March. c. Board Member Lead on various priority strategies to set meetings with relevant board members to get recommendations started. d. Board Members to bring recommendations to full board in January. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS …
REGULAR MEETING of the ARTS COMMISSION November 18, 2024, at 6:00 PM Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001. 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the ARTS COMMISSION may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than Noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Jesús Varela at jesus.varela@austintexas.gov or at 512-974-2444. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Celina Zisman - Chair, Heidi Schmalbach - Vice Chair, Keyheira Keys, Monica Maldonado, Felipe Garza, Gina Houston, Acia Gray, Faiza Kracheni, Amy Mok, Nagavalli Medicharla AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Arts Commission Regular Meeting on October 21, 2024. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion of Chair’s Report on Growth and Future Planning by Chair Zisman 3. Report of the Art in Public Places Liaison concerning actions taking during the November 4th meeting of the Art in Public Places Panel by Commissioner Maldonado 4. Update on actions taken at the October 16th Downtown Commission meeting by Commissioner Mok 5. Presentation by Laura Esparza from Friends of the Dougherty on the Dougherty Arts 6. Presentation by Allison Steger from Austin Public Library on the Austin Poet Laurate 7. Presentation by Laura Esparza on the Introduction to A3 (Art Alliance Austin) 8. Presentation by Sara Vanderbeek, art consultant for Zilker Point (218 South Lamar Blvd Planned Unit Development [PUD]) Center Plan Program STAFF BRIEFINGS 9. Staff briefing regarding an update on the Hotel Occupancy Tax by Laura Odegaard, Acting 10. Staff briefing on the Cultural Arts Funding Programs by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Cultural Arts Division Manager Supervisor DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 11. Discussion and possible action on recommendation to Council to Complete the Dougherty Arts Center Replacement Project by Laura Esparza from Friends of Dougherty 12. Action: Approve the Final Design for the AFD1/EMS6 Station AIPP Project – 13. Action: Approve 10 Recommended artists & 5 …
Friends of Dougherty.org SAVE THE DAC CAMPAIGN WHO ARE WE? All volunteer organization Organized 15 years ago to support the DAC. In touch with DAC supporters; over 500 signatures on petition. ADVOCATES FOR THE COMPLETION OF THE DAC HISTORY OF DAC REPLACEMENT PROJECT SEVERE MAINTENANCE ISSUES ON 80 YR OLD TEMPORARY BUILDING FREQUENT FLOODING-25 YR FLOOD PLAIN 4 HVAC, 16 WINDOW UNITS DISINTEGRATING PLUMBING, FAILING ROOFS, STRUCTURAL & ADA ISSUES ETC. ACTION STEPS TAKEN BY PARD 2010: MWM Design Group completed conditions assessment 2012: Bond Program yielded $3.9 million for DAC. 2015: Architecture Plus completed feasibility study; reviewed alternative locations/bldgs 2017: Studio 8 Architects completed architectural program for new facility 2018: Bond program yielded $25 million for original budget of $28.5million 2019: Community Engagement began and continued for 3 yrs 2019: Council approved redevelopment of DAC at Butler Shores 2021: Council adopted redevelopment scenario but added underground parking garage 2022: Design refined, completed & presented to stakeholders, Parks Board, Design Comm. at a cost of $4.6million 2023: Construction Documents completed 2024: Acting City Manager Juan Garza requested that the project be shelved in favor of a new design that could be completed with remaining $20million eliminating theater and galleries. DAC PROJECT CHALLENGES Council direction expanded project scope COVID 19 resulted in doubling of construction costs Alternative funding did not materialize because funders did not see the project as feasible without a clear City commitment Supply chain challenges December 2022 Council Resolution directing City Mgr to complete the project “as designed” was ignored by a new City Council and acting City Manager. Inflation: $28.5 million project is now a $60 million project in today’s dollars. Project loses $8700/day in escalating construction costs. DAC is at risk of imminent closure as project is stalled. WHAT WE ARE REQUESTING CLEAR COMMITMENT BY COUNCIL TO COMPLETE THE PROJECT AS DESIGNED BY STUDIO 8 SUPPORT AN ALTERNATIVE PARKING SOLUTION INCLUSION ON 2026 BOND HOW YOU CAN HELP 1. Pass our resolution. 2. Sign our petition at FriendsofDougherty.com. 3. Write your Councilmember. THANK YOU! QUESTIONS?
