. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20251020-009: Crosswalk Response WHEREAS, decorative and colored pedestrian crosswalks — including rainbow-themed crosswalks — have been documented to improve pedestrian safety outcomes in some jurisdictions: for example, a study of 17 intersections (including 7 in Florida) found a reduction in crash rates after installation of street-art crossings. WHEREAS, removal of rainbow crosswalks sends a signal of reduced support and visibility for LGBTQ+ residents and visitors, which will undermine the City’s stated equity, inclusion, and belonging goals. Photographic and journalistic commentary note that rainbow crosswalks “provide a sense of safety and belonging for LGBTQ+ individuals, offering a visible reminder that they are valued members of society.” WHEREAS, consideration of removal has already eroded community trust and removing rainbow crosswalks will generate adverse community reaction and further undermine trust between the City and segments of the public who view such crosswalks as an important form of public expression and inclusive design. WHEREAS, state level direction for removal is clear politicization and intentional attack on the LGBTQ+ community due to backlash from the repainting of the Houston-based Montrose Neighborhood rainbow crosswalks. WHEREAS, the City of Austin has a strong interest in supporting safe, walkable, and inclusive streetscapes; retaining rainbow crosswalks aligns with these objectives by combining pedestrian infrastructure with inclusive urban design. WHEREAS, there is no conclusive evidence that rainbow crosswalks degrade safety compared to standard crosswalks; in fact, some research indicates the opposite (reduced crash rates) — thus removal on the basis of safety concerns alone may not be justified without more context-specific study. WHEREAS, the cost of repainting or maintaining decorative crosswalks is typically modest compared to the broader investment in pedestrian infrastructure, and removal will eliminate an asset that supports civic branding, tourism appeal, and community morale. WHEREAS, the “TEXAS” mural on the drag in addition to other painted crosswalks should also be considered for removal if there is a genuine and research-based safety concern due to their presence. . WHEREAS, the removal of rainbow crosswalks and “Black Artists Matter” street paint go against numerous City approved documents including Imagine Austin, The Austin City Charter, Downtown Austin Plan, and Cultural District Framework Plan. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the LGBTQ QoL Advisory Commission recommend the City Council exhaust every possible action to avoid removing crosswalks including but not limited to applying for exemptions and exploring requesting a …
ELECTRIC UTILITY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20251020-013 October 20, 2025 Subject: Recommendation Allowing Austin Energy to Retain Current Logo Motioned By: Commissioner Joshua Rhodes Seconded By: Commissioner Al Braden Recommendation The Electric Utility Commission recommends to the City Council that Austin Energy be allowed to retain their current logo. Rationale: • The current Austin Energy logo has been in use for almost 30 years and incorporates design elements that had been in use in the various City of Austin Electric Utility Department logos for decades prior to the adoption of the current logo. • Austin Energy has attained well-deserved national name recognition, and its logo is widely recognized throughout the electric utility industry. Additionally, the logo is proudly worn by current and former AE employees. • Transitioning to the proposed new logo, even over an extended period of time, will be a costly effort. Given the current financial challenges facing AE and the City as a whole, retaining the current logo seems to be the more prudent use and stewardship of the AE ratepayers’ money. Vote: 7-0-1 For: Chair Dave Tuttle; Commissioner Raul Alvarez; Commissioner Cesar Benavides; Commissioner Al Braden; Commissioner Chris Gillett; Commissioner Cyrus Reed; Commissioner Joshua Rhodes. Against: None Abstentions: Vice Chair Kaiba White Absent: Commissioner Lauren Bellomy and Commissioner Jonathon Blackburn Off the dais: Commissioner Chris Kirksey Attest: Nici Huff Nici Huff, Staff Liaison 1 of 1
KEEP AUSTIN OURS! 2026 City of Austin Bond Proposal THINK BIG & COLLABORATIVE Rally Austin is the first multi-purpose local government corporation, requested by the community and created by the Austin City Council in October 2020 ▪ Community driven, Equity focused ▪ Designed to be agile, mission-driven, collaborative and flexible ▪ Bring new financial tools and resources to the table and generate consistent revenues ▪ Professional approach to community investment and project delivery 2 MISSION Facilitating equitable development for economic growth while preserving Austin's unique culture. VISION A culturally resilient and economically integrated Austin where diverse communities thrive without risk of displacement. Leading investments in our community, as a community Rally will focus its efforts to unite and drive progress across three critical areas of development in Central Texas: ARTS, MUSIC & CULTURE COMPLETE COMMUNITIES CATALYTIC DEVELOPMENT 3 OUR COMMUNITY AT WORK Board of Directors Collaboration of community leaders and nominating bodies who represent local organizations and asset holders. WHO WE ARE 4 ACTIVE COMMUNITY INVESTMENTS Real estate projects valued at approximately $160M, securing an estimated 293,000 square feet of affordable space: ▪ 180,000 SF Affordable housing ▪ 86,000 SF Cultural spaces ▪ 14,000 SF Commercial spaces ▪ 13,000 SF Outdoor and shared spaces Collective economic impact projected between $320 to $400M, also providing community benefits: ▪ Job creation and tax revenues ▪ Property value increases ▪ Tourism and cultural preservation ▪ Soul and vitality OUR RALLY FOR COMPLETE COMMUNITIES OUR RALLY FOR ARTS, MUSIC & CULTURE OUR RALLY FOR CATALYTIC DEVELOPMENT Mixed-use development Seven real estate Rally moves large-scale, for Blocks 16 & 18 on development projects multi-million-dollar East 11th Street in the valued at $37.5M with an development and African American estimated $75M-$94M infrastructure projects Cultural Heritage District, return on investment. and serves as a flexible building thriving small This area of focus has bridge between public, businesses, cultural led to the successful private, and community anchors and affordable negotiation of a new 20- interests to unlock housing. With a current year lease for historic diverse funding sources project value estimated music venue The Hole in and deliver value and at $128M, and an the Wall and several benefits for all partners. estimated impact of other arts and culture $256-320M. venues. 5 RALLY AUSTIN PROPOSED 2026 COMMUNITY INVESTMENT BOND ▪ Overview of Process ▪ Problem Statement ▪ Proposed Solutions ▪ Rally’s Approach ▪ Invest in Our Identity: Keep …
OVERVIEW OVERVIEW OCT 2025 OCT 2025 WELCOME WE’RE hERE TO buIld an InClusIVE, TRauma InfORmEd PROGRam ThaT suPPORTs bOTh aRTIsTs and OuR unhOusEd nEIGhbORs. PG 2 raasininthesun.orgART FOR ALL 2025-2026 “ Our Mission We transform spaces into places of belonging—through art, culture, and community. RaasIn mCInTOsh fOundER raasininthesun.orgart For aLL 2025-2026 OuR TEam RaasIn mCInTOsh fOundER | CEO mIKE KIm COO TIffany KOWalsKI dIRECTOR, PROJECT manaGEmEnT ChRIs TObaR hEad Of dEsIGn, bRand COdI COPyWRITTER naI’lah bEll WayfIndInG aRChITECT JEnnIfER WEb dEV PG 4 raasininthesun.orgART FOR ALL 2025-2026 Our VISION We envision a city where every space reflects the spirit of its people—vibrant, inclusive, and alive with creativity. raasininthesun.orgart For aLL 2025-2026 Art for All To cultivate safe, respectful, and creative spaces that engage unhoused participants while uplifting our community through art. PG 6 raasininthesun.orgART FOR ALL 2025-2026 Project Vision Art for All envisions murals and creative spaces that go beyond beautif ication—cultivating connection, reducing stigma, and building trust across Austin’s diverse communities. PG 7 raasininthesun.orgART FOR ALL 2025-2026 OUR PARTNERS PG 8 raasininthesun.orgART FOR ALL 2025-2026 fuTuRE muRals WIll bE lOCaTEd hERE! ausTIn CEnTRal lIbRaRy, ausTIn PublIC lIbRaRy PG 9 raasininthesun.orgART FOR ALL 2025-2026 Central Library Garage Transforming the Central Library parking garage into a series of storytelling murals that reflect Austin’s community values. PG 10 raasininthesun.orgART FOR ALL 2025-2026 How It Works • CREaTE PublIC aRT: Participants experiencing housing or economic insecurity collaborate with local artists on mural installations. • EaRn samE day Pay: Up to $250 for 6–8 hours of creative work, exceeding Austin’s living wage. • aCCEss suPPORT sERVICEs: Peer Specialists connect participants to resources such as housing, food, behavioral health, and employment. • OnGOInG lOTTERy sysTEm: 20–30+ work slots per program day. *Dates and details are subject to change due to APL schedules. PG 11 raasininthesun.orgART FOR ALL 2025-2026 Juice Consulting PR TEam Founded in 2007 by Heather Wagner Reed, former Senior Product Manager for Beyoncé, Juice Consulting is an award-winning PR and marketing agency known for bringing “f resh-squeezed vitality” to every campaign. Based in Austin, Juice specializes in arts, culture, and creative industries—crafting buzzworthy strategies, press outreach, and branding that position partners as the talk of the town. hEaThER WaGnER REEd PG 12 raasininthesun.orgART FOR ALL 2025-2026 Key Dates & Timeline PG 13 raasininthesun.orgART FOR ALL 2025-2026 Key Dates & Timeline We Will provide Bi - Weekly/ Monthly Updates via Email/Text. sEPT 2025 Kickoff …
Hotel Occupancy Tax Update Arts Commission | October 20, 2025 Hotel Occupancy Tax – September 2025 Approved Budget Amended Budget September w/ Encumb H/MOT Penalties & Interest $584,562 $584,562 Hotel/Motel Occupancy Tax $169,317,023 $169,317,023 Total Revenue $169,901,585 $169,901,585 Transfer to Cultural Arts Fund $16,217,879 $16,217,879 $53,846 $978,315 $1,032,161 $98,571 Year-to-date w/Encumb $520,879 $161,058,087 $161,578,966 $15,430,791 • Total HOT Collections September 2025 = $978,315 • 95% of FY25 Approved Budget of $169,901,585 • Cultural Arts Fund September 2025 = $98,571 Hotel Occupancy Tax Collections – Significant Contributing Events • Austin City Limits Hall of Fame – August 1 • Central Texas Flood benefits o Resound x Mohawk – August 2 o Lyle Lovett at Heart of Texas Flood Benefit – August 12 o Band Together Texas – August 17 • Blues on the Green – August 5-6 • Zilker Summer Musical – July 11-August 16 • Abbey Lights Up COTA Gala – August 16 • PBR Gambler Days – August 22-24 • Austin Pride Parade – August 23 AUS Passenger Totals: 1,772,810 (August 2025) HOT Cultural Arts Fund – FY25 CULTURAL ARTS FUND FY 25 January February March April May June July August September October November December $4,500,000 $4,000,000 $3,500,000 $3,000,000 $2,500,000 $2,000,000 $1,500,000 $1,000,000 $500,000 $0 December $60,961 November $559,306 October $2,437,899 March $169,486 February $1,108,764 June $57,730 May $1,234,509 January $2,834,689 April $2,858,334 Q1 Q2 Q3 $98,571 August $3,934,592 July $79,750 Q4 HOT Collections (FY22 – FY25) Questions? Learn More: www.austintexas.gov/acme/grants-funding
Cultural Arts Funding Update Arts Commission | October 20, 2025 Agenda 1. Contracts & Payments 2. Grant Funded Activities Contracts & Payments Contracts & Payments (as of 10/20/25) FY23 Elevate FY24 Elevate FY24 Nexus (Spring/ Summer) FY25-26 Thrive (Year 1) FY25-26 Thrive (Year 2) Total Contracts Signed & Processed Contracts Test payments issued & verified Payment 1 Issued Payment 2 Issued Payment 3 Issued 199 199 (100%) 199 (100%) 199 (100%) 199 (100%) 195 (98%) 230 229 (99%) 229 (99%) 229 (99%) 217 (94%) 65 (28%) 51 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 50 (98%) n/a Total Dist. to date $6,221,000 (99%) $8,445,250 (91%) Total Allocation $6,250,000 $9,265,000 $245,000 (96%) $255,000 35 34 (97%) 34 (97%) 34 (97%) 32 (91%) 1 (3%) $3,318,500 (86%) See year 1 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A (N/A) $3,850,000 $3,850,000 *Each grant has a different reporting deadline. Final Payments are issued upon successful close out of Final Report. Grant Funded Activities FY 24-25 Cultural Funding Grantee Activities Esplendor y Cultura de Panama November 1 Folklore y Ritmos de Panama (MSA) – Wyndham Garden Fuego Friday – Weekly Afro-Latin Social Dance Series Every Friday through December 26 Austin Latin Dance Cultural Heritage Project (District 1) – Corazon Latino Dance Studio Groundwork Music Project at Hive Austin 4th Saturday of the month through December 27 Groundwork Music Project (District 2) – Hive Austin Urban Echo Writers Workshop Every Monday and Wednesday through December 31 Urban Echo (District 1) – Austin Central Library Questions? Learn More: www.austintexas.gov/acme/grants-funding
Funding Programs Update Arts Commission | October 20, 2025 The Creative Reset: Phase I Funding Program Guidelines • Clearer definitions • Clearer criteria • Simplified processes • More accessible resources across all programs Learn more: austintexas.gov/acme/grants-funding English Guidelines | Spanish Guidelines Program Launch Memo to Mayor and Council (Creative Reset, Funding Guidelines, Application opening)– October 8th Formal Launch of Information via website and direct communication Application Process thelongcenter.submittable.com/submit Intake Form Eligibility Form Application Form Key Dates • October 14: Intake and Eligibility Verification Forms (10am) • October 21: Application Opens (10am) • December 4: Application Intake Form Deadline (6:59pm) Application Timeline Planned Launch Calendar 2025 October 21st Austin Live Music Fund Creative Space Assistance Program Elevate Heritage Preservation Grant 2026 March Nexus 2027 March Nexus July Austin Live Music Fund Elevate Heritage Preservation Grant Thrive July Austin Live Music Fund Creative Space Assistance Program Elevate Heritage Preservation Grant September Nexus September Nexus Application Assistance Workshops (recordings posted on website after event) • Virtual • October 21st at 6pm; November 5th at 6pm; November 17th at 11am • In-Person • October 22nd at 11am (Pleasant Hill Branch Library; 211 E William Cannon Dr, Austin, TX 78745) • October 23rd at 6pm (5202 East Ben White Boulevard, Ste 400, Austin, TX 78741) Open Office Hours • Every Tuesday, 10-Noon (virtual) • Special sessions 10am – 4pm (virtual and in-Person): December 4th, 9th, 11th 1:1 Meetings via Booking Link The Long Center: Email ApplicationHelp@thelongcenter.org; (512) 457-5161 (M-F, 9-11am) Community Events (Nov 1: MACC Dia de Los Muertos; Nov 7: AARC Fall Exhibit Reception; etc) Language Access Available Resources Languages Available Contact Us Technical Application Support ENG and SPN, others upon request Editable Application Forms English, Spanish, Chinese (simple), Vietnamese, and Korean, others upon request ApplicationHelp@TheLongCenter.org or 512-457-5161 www.CreateAustin.org/resources Workshop Recordings ENG and SPN, others upon request bit.ly/AACMEYouTube Language assistance Other than ENG and SPN Call 3-1-1 Austin’s Creative Community Resources ENG and SPN, others upon request www.CreateAustin.org/resources ASL Interpretation American Sign Language TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711 Questions? Learn More: www.austintexas.gov/acme/grants-funding
ARTS COMMISSION: CANDIDATES FOR BOARD NOMINATION Kathryn (Kate) Meehan Kate Meehan offers a distinctive combination of arts leadership, strategic operations, and community-centered development experience. With a master’s degree in Theatre History and Criticism from Texas State University and a career that bridges the arts, design, and business strategy, Kate has built a reputation as an innovative and systems-minded leader. As Partner and Director of Operations at Rhode Partners Inc., she has led including overhauling human resources processes, refining client engagement systems, and driving organizational transformation efforts, marketing and business development initiatives. Her experience demonstrates a rare ability to merge creativity and efficiency, qualities that have tangible impact on both team culture and the broader Austin arts ecosystem. In her submission, Kate’s voice reflects deep curiosity, optimism, and a clear commitment to community building. She describes herself as a relentless community builder and process nerd, highlighting a belief that thoughtful systems and inclusive collaboration are the foundation of sustainable cultural and economic growth. Her work with arts-related organizations such as the Writers’ League of Texas and her leadership within architecture and design firms illustrate her understanding of the intersections between the arts, real estate, and community development. Kate’s enthusiasm to serve on the Rally Austin Board shines through her recognition that the arts play a vital role in shaping Austin’s evolving urban identity, bridging creative expression with civic and economic vitality. Sara Vanderbeek Sara Vanderbeek brings more than two decades of experience as an artist, curator, and arts advocate whose work has profoundly shaped Austin’s creative landscape. As the Founding Executive Director and Curator of DORF, she has cultivated a dynamic, community-driven platform for emerging and established artists, recognized by The Austin Chronicle as the Best New Experimental Gallery in 2018. Sara’s work extends beyond curation into civic engagement and public art leadership, and she has served as an independent curator for the Texas Municipal Retirement System, Zilker Point, and the University Health public art collections. Her experience spans major arts institutions including Christie’s Auction House, the McNay Art Museum, and The Contemporary Austin, underscoring her deep understanding of the art world’s institutional and market dimensions. Sara’s submission emphasizes her belief in the power of creative collaboration and her commitment to equitable cultural and economic development. She currently serves as a consultant for the City of Austin’s Urban Core Land Use Working Group, where she brings an artist’s perspective to conversations …
Art in Public Places New Panelist Recommendations October 2025 Camille Jobe – Architect Art in Public Places – New Panelist Recommendations Camille Jobe – Architect [Camille Jobe] brings a wealth of experience and knowledge as an architect and working in Austin. She will fill a gap in the technical design evaluation of projects that is currently missing on the panel. - Heidi Schmalbach, Arts Commission Liaison to Art in Public Places Panel Excellent and broad experience as an architect and in community engagement; a "big picture thinker" to use her words; able to be strategic in the real work. - Acia Gray, Arts Commission Vice Chair When I review the criteria for a top score, Camille clearly demonstrates mastery of the required competencies. She would serve as a role model, inspiring and training others through both her breadth of experience and her impressive record of service. In addition, she brings highly valued technical expertise that would be an asset to the panel. - Kristi-Anne Shaer, Art in Public Places Panel Chair Camille's impressive career as an Architect and years of leadership in our community will be helpful in executing the responsibilities of the AIPP Panel. Her experience with complex public projects will be a valuable contribution to this program and its Artists. - Andrew Danziger, Art in Public Places Vice Panel Chair Art in Public Places – New Panelist Recommendations Lindsey Millikan – Artist Art in Public Places – New Panelist Recommendations Lindsey Millikan – Artist While all the candidates we interviewed for the visual arts seat were excellent, Lindsey stood out to me for the way she talked about belonging and public art and because she has had the experience of being an AIPP artist. This perspective will be extremely valuable to the makeup of the panel. - Heidi Schmalbach, Arts Commission Liaison to Art in Public Places Panel Experience within the AIPP process as an artist as well as community knowledge of Austin will be a good voice for the panel. - Acia Gray, Arts Commission Vice Chair As a public artist herself, Lindsey has deep expertise in the process of public art making. Her perspective on the function of public art, as well as her vision for the possibilities within Austin’s public art program, were both thoughtful and refreshing. - Kristi-Anne Shaer, Art in Public Places Panel Chair Lindsey's technical knowledge with painting murals will be a …
2026 Draft Meeting Schedule Arts Commission The montly meeting schedule is as follows: MEETING DATES Monday, January 26, 2026 Monday, February 23, 2026 Monday, March 23, 2026 Monday, April 20, 2026 Monday, May 18, 2026 Monday, June 15, 2026 Monday, July 20, 2026 Monday, August 17, 2026 Monday, September 21, 2026 Monday, October 19, 2026 Monday, November 16, 2026 Monday, December 14, 2026 All meetings take place at 6 pm. CANCELLED DATES January 19, 2026 (holiday) February 16, 2026 (holiday) March 16, 2026 Monday, December 21, 2026 LOCATION TBD TBD TBD City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20251020-005: In-Vitro Fertilization Coverage WHEREAS, in September 2022, the Austin City Council passed a resolution directing staff to provide inclusive fertility and family-building benefits for City employees, including those in same- sex and other LGBTQ+ families; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin is a self-insured employer and therefore has the authority to design and administer benefits beyond those offered through Blue Cross Blue Shield, as demonstrated by additional programs being implemented effective January 2026; and WHEREAS, City staff implemented only the vendor’s “medical infertility” program, which failed to meet Council’s stated intent, leaving a multi-year gap in access for LGBTQ+ families; and WHEREAS, employees and their families reasonably relied on the Council’s 2022 directive when making financial and personal decisions about IVF and family planning, and the City’s failure to fully implement those benefits caused financial and emotional harm; WHEREAS, the LGBTQ Quality of Life Commission has heard directly from City employees who have been directly affected by this gap and who have incurred significant personal financial burden because of this oversight; and WHEREAS, inclusive reproductive healthcare access is essential to the health, safety, and well- being of LGBTQIA+ employees, and equitable benefits align with the City’s values of fairness, transparency, and inclusion; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT: The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends that the City Council direct the City Manager and the Human Resources Department to audit potential gaps in coverage and their impacts, including all IVF and fertility benefit inquiries and expenses incurred by City employees between October 2022 and January 2026 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: . The Commission recommends that the City Council require the Human Resources/Benefits Committee to provide annual public reports on the implementation, utilization, and accessibility of LGBTQIA+ family-building benefits to ensure accountability and transparency. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The Commission recommends that the City Council direct the City Manager to establish a reimbursement mechanism for qualifying out-of-pocket expenses incurred by families who should have had insurance coverage; and recommends City Council allocate emergency interim funding to cover employees who incurred IVF-related expenses during the coverage gap, ensuring LGBTQ+ families are not financially penalized by the City’s delayed implementation. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The Commission recommends that the City Council direct HR to improve employee communication through a communications plan and outreach on family-building benefits, …
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20251020-006: Proclamation for Transgender Day of Remembrance WHEREAS, the Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR), observed annually on November 20, honors the memory of transgender and gender-diverse people whose lives have been lost to acts of anti-transgender violence; WHEREAS, TDOR was founded in 1999 by advocate Gwendolyn Ann Smith as a vigil to memorialize Rita Hester, and has since grown into an internationally recognized observance affirming the dignity, resilience, and humanity of transgender communities; WHEREAS, the City of Austin is committed to advancing equity, inclusion, and safety for transgender, nonbinary, and gender-expansive residents and employees through its policies, programs, and partnerships; WHEREAS, formal recognition of TDOR through a City of Austin proclamation and coordinated City participation would reaffirm the City’s values of respect, justice, and belonging, while providing visible support for a community that continues to experience disproportionate levels of violence, discrimination, and erasure; and, WHEREAS, many U.S. cities—including Dallas, San Antonio, Denver, and Portland—have adopted formal proclamations and partnerships for TDOR to demonstrate solidarity and public commitment to trans equity and safety; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT: The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends that the City Council issue an annual proclamation recognizing November 20th, 2025 as Transgender Day of Remembrance in the City of Austin, beginning in 2025 and continuing annually thereafter. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The Commission recommends that City Council direct the City Manager to direct appropriate City departments—including the Equity Office, Human Resources Department, and Communications and Public Information Office—to coordinate City participation, including public acknowledgment, employee education, and community engagement efforts aligned with local TDOR observances. . BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The Commission recommends that City Council direct City staff to collaborate with local transgender-led organizations in planning and promoting annual TDOR observances to ensure authenticity, safety, and community representation. Date of Approval: October 20, 2025 Motioned By: Commissioner Brown Seconded By: Chair Coyne Vote: 9-0 For: Chair Coyne, Commissioners Bandit, Benson, Brown, Davis, Fierro-Pérez, Knutson, Neal, Rivas Against: None Abstain: None Off the dais: None Absent: Vice Chair McLeod, Commissioners Krueger, Treviño Attest: _____________________________________________ Ryan Sperling, LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Staff Liaison
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20251020-007: Review Austin Pride WHEREAS, the City of Austin recognizes the importance of Pride celebrations in affirming the visibility, safety, and belonging of LGBTQIA+ residents, employees, and visitors; WHEREAS, the Austin Pride festival has historically served as the city’s flagship celebration of LGBTQIA+ communities, but the current organizational structure, funding relationship, and scheduling approach have raised questions about inclusivity, transparency, and alignment with City values; WHEREAS, many major U.S. cities directly fund, coordinate, or partner with local Pride events through structured agreements, city-led committees, or grants that ensure accountability, equity, and representation across LGBTQIA+ subcommunities; WHEREAS, Austin’s Pride celebration is typically held in August, which presents accessibility and safety challenges due to extreme heat, and diverges from the June national observance of Pride Month, limiting coordination with regional and national advocacy efforts; WHEREAS, local community groups and LGBTQ+ leaders have expressed interest in expanding Austin’s Pride-related programming, including trans visibility events, queer arts and culture showcases, and inclusive family-oriented celebrations that reflect the full spectrum of Austin’s unique LGBTQIA+ community; and, WHEREAS, reviewing Austin’s current approach and benchmarking against peer cities could help identify best practices for equitable city partnerships, funding models, and scheduling that better support community needs; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT: The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends that the City Council direct the City Manager to review the City’s current relationship with Austin Pride, including potential funding mechanisms, contracts, city services support, and coordination across departments (including Economic Development, Equity Office, and Visit Austin). BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: . The Commission recommends that the City Council direct staff to conduct a benchmarking analysis of Pride festivals in comparable cities—such as Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, Atlanta, Washington D.C., Denver, and Portland—to assess governance structures, timing, city support models, and community engagement practices. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The Commission recommends that the City Council direct staff to explore and evaluate options for hosting the annual pride event in addition to potentially supporting other City- recognized LGBTQ+ celebrations at other times of year, including events aligned with national LGBTQ+ observances such as Pride Month (June), Trans Day of Visibility (March), AIDS Remembrance Day (Dec. 1), or LGBTQ History Month (October). BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The Commission recommends that City Council direct staff to report back to Council and the LGBTQ Quality of …
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20251020-008: Restroom Access Policy WHEREAS, Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 8 (SB 8), also known as the "Texas Women's Privacy Act," into law on September 22, 2025. The law restricts bathroom usage in government- owned buildings and public schools based on sex assigned at birth and is scheduled to take effect on December 4, 2025, applying to all state agencies, public universities, local governments, and public educational institutions, including K-12 schools; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin is committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and safe environment for all residents, workers, and visitors, including transgender, gender non-conforming, nonbinary, and Two-Spirit individuals, building on existing non-discrimination policies enforced by the Office of Equity & Inclusion (OEI); and WHEREAS, guidance from leading civil-rights organizations emphasizes the importance of affirming all-gender restrooms, clear and inclusive signage, staff training, and departmental accountability to ensure safety, dignity, and compliance with applicable laws; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT: The LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends that the City Council direct the City Manager to develop and implement a comprehensive restroom access policy for city-owned and city-leased facilities that ensures privacy, safety, dignity, and respect for all individuals while complying with state law. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends that City Council require the policy, at minimum: (1) the expansion of single-stall, all-gender restrooms with clear, inclusive signage that avoids gendered labels and promotes universal access; (2) that all new construction, renovations, updates, and City-owned or City-leased facilities shall provide single-stall, all-gender restrooms as a standard design feature for harm reduction, privacy, and safety, consistent with applicable building codes; (3) mandatory staff training on inclusivity, de-escalation, and respectful engagement; and . (4) a prohibition on harassment and any invasive or discriminatory enforcement practices, including attempted verification of a person's anatomy, gender, or gender identity. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends that City Council direct the Austin Police Department (APD) to update its General Orders within forty-five (45) days to reflect this policy, with an emphasis on respect, privacy, de-escalation, and human dignity. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends that City Council direct APD, OEI, and the County and City Attorney's Office to jointly develop a coordinated response plan within forty-five …
DRAFT MINUTES URBAN RENEWAL BOARD September 15, 2025, 6:00 P.M. STREET JONES BUILDING, ROOM 400A 1000 EAST 11TH ST, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78702 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 Darrell W.Pierce and Commissioners Jacqueline Watson, Amit Motwani, Byron Davis. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: No members 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 6:08 pm with 6 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. Paul Stables addressed the board regarding Item 3. 1 of 3 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Urban Renewal Board’s (URB’s) regular-called meeting on August 18, 2025 On Commissioner Tetey’s motion, Commissioner Davis’s second, the August 18, 2025, minutes were approved on a 6-0-0 vote. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion related to updates on future development of Blocks 16 & 18 from Pleasant Hill Collaborative and Rally Austin, including project status and anticipated timeline (Pleasant Hill Collaborative) DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Discussion and approval of a recommendation to City Council proposed by the URB regarding the requested Urban Renewal Plan amendment for 1201 E 11th St. On Commissioner Watson’s motion, Commissioner Motwani’s second, a recommendation to City Council was approved on a 5-1-0 vote. 4. Discussion and approval of an amendment extending the license agreement between the Urban Renewal Agency and DiverseArts On Commissioner Davis’s motion, Commissioner Motwani’s recommendation to City Council was approved on a 5-1-0 vote. second, a 5. Discussion and approval of an amendment extending the license agreement between the Urban Renewal Agency and Capitol View Arts On Commissioner Watson’s motion, Commissioner Davis’s recommendation to City Council was approved on a 5-1-0 vote. second, a 6. Discussion and authorization of Chair Escobar to amend Exclusive Negotiation Agreement language to move necessary items to Phase A-2, as needed second, a On Commissioner Watson’s motion, Commissioner Davis’s recommendation to City Council was approved on a 5-0-0 vote. …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board Recommendation Number: 20251020-05: Support for investing in farmland preservation and access in Austin and Travis County WHEREAS, the 2022 City of Austin State of the Food System Report indicates that less than 0.6% of the food consumed in Travis County is produced locally, and that approximately 16.8 acres of farmland are lost daily to development pressure, underscoring the critical need for agricultural land preservation e(cid:431)orts; and WHEREAS, farmland in Central Texas is continuing to increase in value and decrease in quantity, the opportunity to preserve a meaningful amount of farmland will disappear as development spreads and farmland is permanently converted to other uses; and WHEREAS, it is recognized by the Milan Urban Food Policy Pact and demonstrated by the Carbon Cycle Institute that agricultural land managed according to regenerative principles is vital to local food security, watershed protection, emergency preparedness, and climate resilience; and WHEREAS, farmland preservation supports multiple City priorities, including increasing local food production, improving water quality, wildlife habitat preservation, ecosystem biodiversity, stormwater management, carbon sequestration, and recreation; and WHEREAS, the Austin/Travis County Food Plan, approved by Austin City Council in October 2024, includes strategic, measurable, and time-bound goals and strategies to strengthen food security, promote environmental sustainability, and address climate change; and WHEREAS, Goal 1 of the Austin/Travis County Food Plan prioritizes expanding community food production, preserving agricultural lands, and increasing the amount of farmland dedicated to regenerative food production in Austin and Travis County; and WHEREAS, Strategy 1.1 of the Food Plan calls for the preservation of land for food production in Central Texas through conservation easements, fee-simple purchases, and land-banking, ensuring that farmland remains dedicated to agricultural use; and WHEREAS, Strategy 1.2 of the Food Plan directs the City of Austin to pursue capital funding sources to finance the preservation of land for agricultural use through conservation easements or direct purchases; and WHEREAS, preserving agricultural land also supports the goals of the Austin Climate Equity Plan by promoting sustainable land use and reducing carbon footprints through localized food production; and WHEREAS, Natural Systems Goal 2 of the Austin Climate Equity Plan aims to protect 500,000 acres of farmland across the five-county region through legal conservation or regenerative agriculture programs by 2030; and WHEREAS, the ATCFPB passed Recommendation Number: 20250310-06A: Support for Agricultural Land Acquisition and Preservation in March 2025 encouraging the city to increase sta(cid:431) capacity to …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2025 – 8:30 AM Permitting and Development Center – Room 1401/1402 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Austin, TX 78752 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, please email preservation@austintexas.gov. COMMISSION MEMBERS: Ben Heimsath, (D-8) Chair Roxanne Evans (D-2), Vice Chair Jeffrey Acton (Mayor) Vacant (D-1) Kevin Koch (D-3) Judah Rice (D-4) Harmony Grogan (D-5) Carl Larosche (D-6) Jaime Alvarez (D-7) Bat Taniguchi (D-9) Trey McWhorter (D-10) CALL TO ORDER AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first (10) speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. 2. 3. Presentation and discussion on the Equity-Based Preservation Plan implementation Presenter: Cara Bertron, Historic Preservation Office Presentation and discussion on Commission bylaws Presenter: Kalan Contreras and Kim McKnight, Historic Preservation Office Presentation and discussion on Commission and Committee meetings Presenter: Historic Preservation Office staff ADJOURNMENT 1 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 the Historic Preservation Office at 512-974-3393 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Historic Landmark Commission, please contact Hunter Sturgill, Historic Preservation Planner II, at 512-974-3393; Austin Lukes, Historic Preservation Planner Senior, at 512-978-0766; or Kalan Contreras, Historic Preservation Officer, at 512-974-2727. 2
