December 12, 2025 City of Austin Planning Commission City of Austin, City Hall Council Chamber 301 W Second Street Austin, Texas 78701 Re: Support for Block 16 & 18 Rezone on E. 11th Street Dear Austin Planning Chair & Commissioners, I am writing in support of the Block 16 & 18 development project. As Board President of the Texas Music Museum, located in the Marvin Griffin Building at 1009 E. 11th Street, I want to express our full support for the proposed affordable housing project across the street on Block 16 and the Arts and Music Cultural Center on block 18. The Texas Music Museum has been operating for 42 years, researching, archiving, collecting, and presenting detailed exhibits and programs that preserve and honor the legacy of amazing African American musicians from East Austin. Our mission is deeply rooted in preserving East Austin’s history and culture through community-centered projects that help reduce displacement and gentrification. We are hopeful that this project will bring more housing options for our community, including many East Austin musicians who would likely qualify for affordable units. We also support the inclusion of housing for Huston-Tillotson University students. The Texas Music Museum works closely with Huston-Tillotson, hiring archival interns and docents from this important institution who provide exceptional museum tours for visitors from all over the world , across Texas and the US. We would be pleased to see affordable housing on E 11th St. that further strengthens this anchor of the African American Cultural Heritage District Corridor. Thank you for your consideration in supporting equitable development in East Austin. Sincerely, Clay Shorkey, PhD Board President, Texas Music Museum 1009 E 11th St., Austin, Texas 02 East 11th & 12th Street Urban Renewal Area Modification #14 - East 11th and 12th Street Urban Renewal Plan Amendment#14; District 11 of 2 02 East 11th & 12th Street Urban Renewal Area Modification #14 - East 11th and 12th Street Urban Renewal Plan Amendment#14; District 12 of 2
December 12, 2025 City of Austin Planning Commission City of Austin, City Hall Council Chamber 301 W Second Street Austin, Texas 78701 Re: Support for Block 16 & 18 Rezone on E. 11th Street Dear Austin Planning Chair & Commissioners, I am writing in support of the Block 16 & 18 development project. As Board President of the Texas Music Museum, located in the Marvin Griffin Building at 1009 E. 11th Street, I want to express our full support for the proposed affordable housing project across the street on Block 16 and the Arts and Music Cultural Center on block 18. The Texas Music Museum has been operating for 42 years, researching, archiving, collecting, and presenting detailed exhibits and programs that preserve and honor the legacy of amazing African American musicians from East Austin. Our mission is deeply rooted in preserving East Austin’s history and culture through community-centered projects that help reduce displacement and gentrification. We are hopeful that this project will bring more housing options for our community, including many East Austin musicians who would likely qualify for affordable units. We also support the inclusion of housing for Huston-Tillotson University students. The Texas Music Museum works closely with Huston-Tillotson, hiring archival interns and docents from this important institution who provide exceptional museum tours for visitors from all over the world , across Texas and the US. We would be pleased to see affordable housing on E 11th St. that further strengthens this anchor of the African American Cultural Heritage District Corridor. Thank you for your consideration in supporting equitable development in East Austin. Sincerely, Clay Shorkey, PhD Board President, Texas Music Museum 1009 E 11th St., Austin, Texas 03 C14-2025-0103 - Council Initiated Block 16 Rezone; District 11 of 2 03 C14-2025-0103 - Council Initiated Block 16 Rezone; District 12 of 2
URBAN RENEWAL BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20251215-005 Date: September 15, 2025 Subject: Urban Renewal Plan Amendment – 907, 907 ½, 909, 911, 913, and 915 Juniper Street; 920, 924, 926, and 928 East 11th Street Motioned By: Escobar Seconded By: Watson Recommendation The Urban Renewal Board recommends approval regarding the request to amend the Urban Renewal Plan for East 11th and 12th Street for the property at 907, 907 ½, 909, 911, 913, and 915 Juniper Street; 920, 924, 926, and 928 East 11th Street. The proposal would amend Title 25 (Land Development Code) relating to the East 11th Street Neighborhood Conservation Combining District to increase maximum allowable building height for a portion of the site resulting in tiered stepbacks. The proposal would enable the inclusion of 12 additional affordable housing units planned for the site without increasing the building’s highest point. The Urban Renewal Board authorizes Hunter Maples, Board Liaison to attend and represent the Urban Renewal Agency at any Board and Commission or City Council meetings related to the request. Vote: 6-0-0 For: Escobar, Davis, Motwani, Pierce, Tetey, Watson Against: None Abstain: None Absent: None Attest: Hunter Maples, Board Liaison 1 of 1 02 East 11th & 12th Street Urban Renewal Area Modification #14 - East 11th and 12th Street Urban Renewal Plan Amendment#14; District 11 of 1
E. 11 TH ARTS & CULTURE HUB ARTS & CULTURE HUB PRESERVING OUR PAST. SHAPING OUR FUTURE. Who We Are Coalition of creatives, developers, architects, consultants, and community members Selected by the City of Austin to legacy build East 11th’s Block 16 & 18 corridor Mission: Legacy building through culture, equity, place Why This Matters East 11th is more than a street — it’s a story of resilience, innovation, and Black excellence. But gentrification, displacement, and disinvestment threaten that legacy. We see an opportunity to: Reclaim space Build generational wealth Create a cultural home for our community The Block 16 & 18 Project A multi-year plan for a vibrant cultural corridor, featuring: Affordable housing for residents with generational ties to East Austin Affordable restaurants & retail space Central cultural hub for art, history, and performance Huston-Tilloston student housing Public plazas & gathering spaces Cultural & Economic Impact TH E. 11 = CULTURAL DESTINATION EMPOWERING OWNERSHIP JOB & CAREER PATHWAYS COMMUNITY STEWARDSHIP SMALL BUSINESS INCUBATION Community- Informed Four guiding principles: 1.Cultural Preservation 2.Economic Equity 3.Intergenerational Leadership 4.Shared Stewardship CITY & SOUNDING BOARDGROUPSThe E. 11 Arts & Music HubStakeholder Work GroupthUrban Renewal BoardAfrican American CulturalHeritage Strategic PlanCommitteeAfrican American ResourceAdvisory CommitteeDigital Updates (social media,email newsletter, etc.)COMMUNITY OUTREACHLocal artists and creativesNonprofit OrganizationsNeighborhood AssociationsChurchesArt Galleries Music VenuesAlumni AssociationsTabling at community eventsNeighboring MunicipalitiesPress & MediaDigital Updates (social media,email newsletter, etc.)PUBLIC PLACEMAKING &SYNCING SESSIONSOn-site art and musicactivations open to the public Schematic design syncing forcommunity input Design development syncing forcommunity inputCommunity storytellingOpen House syncing forcommunity awarenessDigital Updates (social media,email newsletter, etc.) Let’s Continue Legacy Building in the District!
02 East 11th & 12th Street Urban Renewal Area Modification #14; District 11 of 2 RHNA raises these concerns not to oppose development, but to emphasize the need for timely, transparent, and meaningful engagement. We have agreed to a standing agenda item with the development team to improve communication. Our goal is not to delay progress, but to ensure an informed process and a better project for everyone. Scott Menzies Robertson Hill Neighborhood Association President CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at " ". 02 East 11th & 12th Street Urban Renewal Area Modification #14; District 12 of 2
E. 11 TH ARTS & CULTURE HUB ARTS & CULTURE HUB PRESERVING OUR PAST. SHAPING OUR FUTURE. Who We Are Coalition of creatives, developers, architects, consultants, and community members Selected by the City of Austin to legacy build East 11th’s Block 16 & 18 corridor Mission: Legacy building through culture, equity, place Why This Matters East 11th is more than a street — it’s a story of resilience, innovation, and Black excellence. But gentrification, displacement, and disinvestment threaten that legacy. We see an opportunity to: Reclaim space Build generational wealth Create a cultural home for our community The Block 16 & 18 Project A multi-year plan for a vibrant cultural corridor, featuring: Affordable housing for residents with generational ties to East Austin Affordable restaurants & retail space Central cultural hub for art, history, and performance Huston-Tilloston student housing Public plazas & gathering spaces Cultural & Economic Impact TH E. 11 = CULTURAL DESTINATION EMPOWERING OWNERSHIP JOB & CAREER PATHWAYS COMMUNITY STEWARDSHIP SMALL BUSINESS INCUBATION Community- Informed Four guiding principles: 1.Cultural Preservation 2.Economic Equity 3.Intergenerational Leadership 4.Shared Stewardship CITY & SOUNDING BOARDGROUPSThe E. 11 Arts & Music HubStakeholder Work GroupthUrban Renewal BoardAfrican American CulturalHeritage Strategic PlanCommitteeAfrican American ResourceAdvisory CommitteeDigital Updates (social media,email newsletter, etc.)COMMUNITY OUTREACHLocal artists and creativesNonprofit OrganizationsNeighborhood AssociationsChurchesArt Galleries Music VenuesAlumni AssociationsTabling at community eventsNeighboring MunicipalitiesPress & MediaDigital Updates (social media,email newsletter, etc.)PUBLIC PLACEMAKING &SYNCING SESSIONSOn-site art and musicactivations open to the public Schematic design syncing forcommunity input Design development syncing forcommunity inputCommunity storytellingOpen House syncing forcommunity awarenessDigital Updates (social media,email newsletter, etc.) Let’s Continue Legacy Building in the District!
03 C14-2025-0103 - Council Initiated: Block 16 Rezone; District 11 of 2 RHNA raises these concerns not to oppose development, but to emphasize the need for timely, transparent, and meaningful engagement. We have agreed to a standing agenda item with the development team to improve communication. Our goal is not to delay progress, but to ensure an informed process and a better project for everyone. Scott Menzies Robertson Hill Neighborhood Association President CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at " ". 03 C14-2025-0103 - Council Initiated: Block 16 Rezone; District 12 of 2
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE HISPANIC LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2025, AT 6:00 PM CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM #1101 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource 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 remotely, contact Christi Vitela at christi.vitela@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2792. telephone. To to speak register CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Amanda Afifi, Chair Dulce Castañeda Andrea Flores Johanna Moya Fábregas Lyssette Galvan AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Yesenia Ramos, Vice Chair Brian Peña Jesús Perales Elizabeth Morales Melissa Ruiz 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 Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on November 18, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation regarding the development of a report by Austin Equity and Inclusion to understand and address disparities in community conditions across neighborhoods. Presentation by Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity and Inclusion. 3. Presentation regarding Universal Tech Movement’s updated mission, digital inclusion efforts and ways in which the commission can support UTM's pathways into technology. Presentation by Michael Ward Jr., President and CEO, Universal Tech Movement. 4. Discussion of the Public Spaces Task Force. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve the creation of an Arts and Culture Working Group. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Christi Vitela at the Austin City Clerk’s Office, at 512-974-2792 or christi.vitela@austintexas.gov, to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission, please contact Christi Vitela at 512-974-2792 or christi.vitela@austintexas.gov.
Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission November 18, 2025 HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, November 18, 2025 The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St in Austin, Texas. Commissioner Galvan called the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:07 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Lyssette Galvan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Amanda Afifi, Chair Yesenia Ramos, Vice Chair Andrea Flores Johanna Moya Fábregas Jesús Perales PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Maria Gutierrez – Elevate Grant Program Hector Ordaz - Elevate Grant Program Raquel Rivera - Elevate Grant Program Luis Ordaz - Elevate Grant Program APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on October 28, 2025. The minutes from the meeting on October 28, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Perales’ motion, Vice Chair Ramos’ second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Castañeda, Peña, and Ruiz were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 1 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission November 18, 2025 2. Introduction of the Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment office (AACME). Briefing by Angela Means, Director, Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment. The presentation was made by Candice Cooper, Interim Chief Administrative Officer, Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation by Michael Ward Jr., President and CEO, Universal Tech Movement, regarding an updated mission, digital inclusion efforts and ways in which the commission can support UTM's pathways into technology. Withdrawn. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve an alternate representative to the Joint Inclusion Committee. The motion to approve Dulce Castañeda as the alternate representative to the Joint Inclusion Committee was approved on Commissioner Moya Fábregas’ motion, Chair Afifi’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Castañeda, Peña, and Ruiz were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Discussion of an Arts & Culture Working Group Discussion of Public Spaces Task Force ADJOURNMENT Commissioner Galvan adjourned the meeting at 7:02 p.m. without objection. 2
Mapping Opportunity Gary Aaron | Business Process Consultant Sr. Shivani Datar | Business Process Specialist City of Austin's Commitment In every community, there are conditions—some visible, others deeply embedded—that shape how people live, work, and move through the city. Austin is committed to becoming the most livable city for all identities… Mobility Index The City is developing an index to better align department priorities with community priorities. This index will help: Identify neighborhood- level conditions that affect people’s daily lives Identify where barriers to opportunity persist Guide service delivery and decision-making with data and community insight Purposeful Design Neighborhood-level conditions are grouped into themes Reflect core dimensions of community life Organize conditions into actionable categories Identify shared needs and track progress ex. Limited English Proficiency ex. Median Household Income Belonging & Mobility Livelihood & Work Health & Well Being ex. Access to Health Insurance Indicators Health & Wellbeing ⚬ ⚬ Access to Health Resources ￭ Percent uninsured ￭ Percent of children in poverty Functional and Physical Health Context ￭ Residents with a disability ￭ Estimated Annual Loss Due to Environmental Hazard & Weather ⚬ Livelihood & Work Economic Stability Indicators ￭ Median household income ￭ Is this tract in concentrated poverty? ￭ Underemployment rate Housing Stability and Cost Burdens ￭ Eviction Rate ￭ Percent living in poverty ￭ Percent of income spent on utilities ⚬ ⚬ Belonging & Mobility Social Inclusion and Access ￭ Percent of households that speak limited English ￭ Percent of households with no internet access ￭ Percent of population aged 65+ with an ambulatory difficulty ⚬ Education, Environment, and Household Supports ￭ Percent of people with less than a high school diploma ￭ Percent of people with low physical activity ￭ Household Support Risk Score Building Together | Listening to What Matters Most to Our Community What do you see as the most important issues or opportunities in your community today? In your view, what are the key drivers of success or opportunity in your community? What changes would have the greatest impact on mobility and opportunity in your community? Thank You!
REGULAR MEETING OF THE URBAN RENEWAL BOARD MONDAY DECEMBER 15, 2025, AT 6:00 P.M. STREET JONES BUILDING, ROOM 400A 1000 EAST 11TH ST, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78702 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 Byron Davis Kobla Tetey Darrell W, Pierce, Vice Chair Amit Motwani Jacqueline Watson AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up no later than noon the day before the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Urban Renewal Board’s (URB’s) regular-called meeting on October 20, 2025. 1 of 2 STAFF BREIFINGS 2. 3. Staff Briefing regarding City Council action related to URB recommendation 20250915-003. Presentation by Hunter Maples, Austin Housing. Staff briefing on the African American Cultural Heritage District Strategic Plan by Matthew Schmidt, Austin Economic Development and Mend Collaborative. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. 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 5. Conduct public hearing and receive public comment on proposed Amendment to Urban Renewal Plan related to rezoning request Case No. C14-2025-0103 & E. 11/12th St. (URP Mod No. 14) resulting in tiered height setbacks and increased height and submitted by Urban Renewal Agency of the City of Austin and pending before the Planning Commission who will make its recommendation to the Austin City Council. EXECUTIVE SESSION 6. 7. Discuss legal matters related to the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of an interest in Blocks 16 …
DRAFT MINUTES URBAN RENEWAL BOARD MONDAY OCTOBER 20, 2025, AT 6:00 P.M. STREET JONES BUILDING, ROOM 400A 1000 EAST 11TH ST, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78702 CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Manuel Escobar, Chair Byron Davis Kobla Tetey Darrell W, Pierce, Vice Chair Amit Motwani Jacqueline Watson Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Manuel Escobar, Vice Chair Darrell W. Pierce, and Commissioners Byron Davis, Amit Motwani, Kobla Tetey. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: No members attended remotely. Board Members Absent/off the dais at call to order: Commissioner Jacqueline Watson was absent. CALL TO ORDER Chair Escobar, called the meeting to order at 6:08 pm with 5 members present. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up no later than noon the day before the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. There were no members of the public to address the board. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Urban Renewal Board’s (URB’s) regular-called meeting on September 15, 2025. On Commissioner Watson’s motion, Commissioner Motwani’s second, the December 16, 2024, minutes were approved on a 5-0-0 vote. 1 of 2 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. 4. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair On Commissioner Motwani’s motion, Commissioner Davis’s second, Chair Escobar and Vice Chair Pierce were re-elected to their officer positions on a 5-0-0 vote. Discussion and approval of Urban Renewal Board regular meeting schedule for 2026 On Commissioner Motwani’s motion, Commissioner Tetey’s second, the regular meeting schedule for 2026 was approved on a 5-0-0 vote. EXECUTIVE SESSION Chair Escobar recessed the regular meeting and called the Executive Session to order at 6:23 pm. 5. 6. 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 on East 11th Street in Austin (Real Property - Section 551.072 of the Texas Government Code) Chair Escobar ended executive session and reconvened the regular meeting …
December 9, 2025 PROJECT SUMMARY & STAFF REPORT Address: 907, 907 ½, 909, 911, 913, and 915 Juniper Street; 920, 924, 926, and 928 East 11th Street Applicant/Agent: City of Austin (Hunter Maples) Owner: Urban Renewal Agency of the City of Austin Type of Amendment: East 11/12th URP Modification (Fourteenth Modification); A change to a condition of zoning and an amendment to the Urban Renewal Plan resulting in tiered height setbacks and increased height. Existing Zoning: CS-NCCD-NP and SF-3-NCCD-NP Proposed Rezoning: CS-NCCD-NP, SF-3-NCCD-NP (with a change to a condition of zoning and an amendment to the Urban Renewal Plan) The proposal would amend Title 25 (Land Development Code) relating to the East 11th Street Neighborhood Conservation Combining District to increase maximum building height and establish tiered stepbacks for development on Block 16. Lot Size: approximately 1 Acre (approximately 43,560 square feet) Urban Renewal Plan Adoption Date: January 25, 1999 Urban Renewal Agency of the City of Austin (URA) Recommendation: Scheduled to take up the case on December 15, 2025 Planning Commission Recommendation: Scheduled to take up the case on December 16, 2025 Staff Recommendation: Recommended Basis for Staff Recommendation: On August 28, 2025, the Austin City Council initiated both this Urban Renewal Plan (URP) Amendment and the associated Neighborhood Conservation Combining District (NCCD) Amendment (C14-2025-0103) through Resolution No.20250828-095. Granting this case would provide an opportunity for transformative redevelopment that would support a substantial amount of community planning for the East 11th Street Corridor. This proposed modification would enable the inclusion of additional affordable housing units within proximity to Downtown Austin, public transportation, services, and other resources. Staff Contact: Hunter Maples Phone: 512-974-3120 Email: Hunter.Maples@austintexas.gov
REGULAR MEETING of the SOUTH-CENTRAL WATERFRONT ADVISORY BOARD MONDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2025 AT 6:00PM Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr., Room 1405 Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the South Central Waterfront Advisory 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 or to listen in on the meeting, call or email Aaron D. Jenkins (512) 974-7756 aaron.jenkins@austintexas.gov CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Board Members Luai Abou-emara Peter Breton Marissa A. McKinney Ryan Puzycki David Sullivan Ex- Officios Davon Barbour (Downtown Austin Alliance) Rebecca Edwards (Housing) Hasan Manur (Transportation) Hopie Martinez (Real Estate) Trisha Sims (Real Estate) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board (SCWAB) Regular Meeting on March 17, 2025 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. 3. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair Approve the South Central Waterfront Advisory Board 2026 Annual Meeting Schedule. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Aaron D. Jenkins at Austin Financial Services, at (512) 974-7756 aaron.jenkins@austintexas.gov to request service or for additional information. For more information on the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board, please contact Aaron D. Jenkins (512) 974-7756 aaron.jenkins@austintexas.gov of the Financial Services Department.
Library Commission Community Interest Announcement Reception for Library Commission, Library Foundation and Austin History Center Association December 15, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Central Library Event Center, 710 W Cesar Chavez A quorum of Commission members may be present. No action will be taken, and no Commission business will occur. For more information, please contact: Laura Polio 512-974-9624
REGULAR MEETING OF THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MONDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2025, AT 6 P.M. CENTRAL LIBRARY EVENT CENTER 710 WEST CESAR CHAVEZ STREET, 1ST FLOOR AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Commission may be participating via video conference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Pamela Carlile Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Holly Sabiston CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Magen Davis Sara Gore Andrea Herrera Moreno Edward Selig AGENDA 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 1. 2. Approve the revised minutes of the Library Commission Special-Called meeting on August 2, 2025. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on November 17, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation by Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation, regarding The Library Foundation’s programs and services. 4. Presentation by Adam Powell, Executive Director, Austin History Center Association, regarding Austin History Center Association’s programs and services. STAFF BRIEFINGS 5. Staff briefing on the December APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Laura Polio at Austin Public Library Department, at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Library Commission, please contact Laura Polio at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov.
Library Commission Meeting Minutes August 2, 2025 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES SATURDAY, AUGUST 02, 2025 The Library Commission convened a special called meeting on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at the Austin Central Library in Austin, Texas. Due to technical difficulty, there is no audio recording available for this meeting and all action taken will be taken at a future meeting. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 12:05 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair Pamela Carlile Magen Davis Sara Gore Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Andrea Herrera Moreno Edward Selig Commissioners Absent: Kezia Frayjo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. Zenobia Joseph provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Library Commission Meeting Minutes August 2, 2025 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on June 30, 2025. The June 30, 2025, minutes were approved at the August 2, 2025, special called meeting on a motion by Commissioner Gore, seconded by Commissioners Carlile. The motion passed on a 9–0 vote. Commissioner Frayjo was absent. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing: “The Best of Both Worlds: Integrating Digital Content and Print Resources” by Christina Nelson, Customer Access Division Manager. The briefing was presented by Christina Nelson, Customer Access Division Manager. 3. Staff briefing on the Austin Public Library Poet Laureate Program by Zell Miller, III, Poet Laureate. The briefing was presented by Zell Miller, III, Poet Laureate. 4. Staff briefing on the 2026 Austin Public Library Centennial Celebrations by Baylor Johnson, Public Information and Marketing Program Manager. The briefing was presented by Baylor Johnson, Public Information and Marketing Program Manager. 5. Staff Briefing on the Austin Public Library FY2026 Proposed Budget, by John Cabiya, Acting Financial Manager II. The briefing was presented by John Cabiya, Acting Financial Manager II. 6. Staff briefing on the Austin Public Library Facilities Updates and Capital Improvement Projects, by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager. The briefing was postponed to the August 25, 2025, meeting without objection. 7. Staff briefing on the July APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. Hannah Terrell, Interim Director, yielded their time for the Commission to address other matters on the agenda. Library Commission Meeting Minutes August 2, 2025 DISCUSSION ITEMS 8. Presentation by Kathy Mitchell, …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes November 17, 2025 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, November 17, 2025 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, November 17, 2025, at the Ruiz Branch Library in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Pamela Carlile Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Edward Selig Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Magen Davis Sara Gore Andrea Herrera Moreno PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL NONE APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on September 29, 2025. Library Commission Meeting Minutes November 17, 2025 The September 29, 2025, minutes were approved on a motion by Commissioner Selig, seconded by Commissioner Carlile. The motion passed on a 9-0 vote. 2. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on October 27, 2025. The October 27, 2025, minutes were approved on a motion by Vice Chair Mehta, seconded by Commissioner Gururaj. The motion passed on a 9–0 vote. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Discussion on prospective advocacy initiatives to support the Austin Public Library Centennial Celebrations in 2026. The Commission discussed potential advocacy initiatives in support of Austin Public Library’s Centennial Celebrations in 2026. Proposed actions included submitting a formal recommendation to the City Council advocating for additional funding and support, attending centennial events at branch locations within Commissioners’ respective districts, and promoting broader Council and community engagement in centennial-related outreach and activities. 4. Discussion and approval of a Library Commission representative to the Austin Public Library Honorary Centennial Planning Committee. The motion to approve the appointment of Commissioner Hasdorf and Commissioner Gururaj to Austin Public Library’s Honorary Centennial Planning Committee was approved on Commissioner Selig’s motion, seconded by Commissioner Carlisle on a 9-0 vote. 5. Approve the 2026 Annual Meeting Schedule of the Library Commission. The motion to approve the Library Commission 2026 Annual Meeting Schedule was approved on Commissioner Hasdorff’s motion, seconded by Vice Chair Mehta on a 9-0 vote. STAFF BRIEFING 6. Staff briefing on the November APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The briefing was presented by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Austin History Center Association The Library Foundation Centennial Opportunities Library Commission Meeting Minutes November 17, 2025 Budget Volunteerism Capacity Building ADJOURNMENT Chair Infante Huerta adjourned the meeting …
Library Highlights & Updates Report Hannah Terrell, Director Highlights AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY APL Public Programming Highlights & Facilities Updates Highlights The Light That Grows Here The Light That Grows Here showcases new textile works by artist and weaver Robin Kang, honoring the healing spirit of native Texas plants. Blending folklore, plant-based dyes, and digital design, Kang’s Jacquard-loom weavings merge botanical imagery with circuitry-inspired patterns, exploring the connections between nature, technology, and ritual. ATX Passport to the World th APL and Austin Sister Cities International presented the 10 Annual Passport to the World Festival, a celebration of global culture, music, food, and community. Festival highlights included live performances, hands-on activities, and the debut of the ATX Passport Card with exclusive deals at international Austin merchants. Film Strip Club - Howson Branch On November 11th, the Howson branch hosted the Film Strip Club, which is a creative partnership between APL and the Texas Archive of the Moving Image, where participants explore hands-on, analog filmmaking techniques, from painting on transparent film to scratching designs into black emulsion. 3 AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY APL Public Programming Highlights & Facilities Updates Special Events Updates In November 2025, Central Library Special Events hosted 13 events, including 9 rentals, 3 co- sponsorships, and 1 internal event, along with 2 unstaffed photo shoots. Total estimated attendance for the month was 2,011. Co-sponsorship highlights included the Executive & Supervisor Academy Graduation with the LEAD Office (November 5), the State of the Parkway event with the Red Line Parkway Initiative (November 6, pending City Council approval), and the STORIES Gala with the Library Foundation (November 13). The City’s LEAD Office held the Executive & Supervisor Academy Graduation on November 5. Recycled Reads Transition City Council Updates/Legislative Bills There have not been any recent Austin City Council agenda items nor have there been any legislative bills that would have a direct impact on Austin Public Library. Budget and Expenditures 4 A Recycled Reads Transition Workgroup has been formed to plan the shift from a single-locationbookstore to a systemwide materials sales model. The group is developing timelines and operationalplans to ensure a smooth wind-down of the Burnet Rd. location ahead of the lease ending in March2026, while managing inventory and minimizing service disruptions.Key Dates:Effective Nov. 17, 2025 – APL only accepting materials donations in the form of books andfollowing media.Dec. 31, 2025 – Final day for the public to drop off donations at …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE DESIGN COMMISSION MONDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2025, 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 COMMISSIONERS: Jon Salinas, Chair Josue Meiners, Vice Chair Ramachandra “Rao” Aradhyula David Carroll Nkiru Gelles Kevin Howard CALL TO ORDER AGENDA Saira Khan Conners Ladner Marissa McKinney Evgenia “Jenny” Murkes Brendan Wittstruck PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 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 1. Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on October 27, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. Discussion of analysis on the Design Commission's recommendations and the final approved Downtown Density Bonus Program projects from the past ten years. Discussion of the draft Urban Design Guidelines regarding the sections: Introduction, Core Principle A: Protect Pedestrians and Bicyclists from the Elements, and Core Principle B: Protect Sidewalk and Bikeway Users from Motor Vehicles. Discussion of the timeline and obstacles of the update to the Urban Design Guidelines. Sponsors: Chair Salinas, Vice Chair Meiners, and Commissioner Howard. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. 6. Discussion and action to select Downtown Density Bonus Program projects from the past ten years to analyze outcomes. Sponsors: Chair Salinas and Vice Chair Meiners. Discussion and action to select members for the Planning and Urban Design Working Group. Sponsors: Chair Salinas and Commissioner Howard. COMMITTEE UPDATES 7. 8. Update from the representative of the Downtown Commission regarding the meeting on November 19, 2025. Update from the representative of the Joint Sustainability Committee regarding the meeting on November 19, 2025. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS City Code requires at least 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. …
DESIGN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 27, 2025 The Design Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, October 27, 2025, 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 6:06 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Jon Salinas, Chair Josue Meiners, Vice Chair Ramachandra “Rao” Aradhyula David Carroll Nkiru Gelles Conners Ladner – Commissioner Ladner left the meeting at 8:30 p.m. Evgenia “Jenny” Murkes Brendan Wittstruck Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Kevin Howard Saira Khan Marissa McKinney PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on August 25, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of 08/25/2025 were approved on Commissioner Aradhyula’s motion, Vice Chair Meiners’ second, on a 9-0-2 vote. Commissioners Gelles and Ladner abstained. STAFF BRIEFINGS 1 2. 3. Staff briefing regarding the Green Infrastructure in the Right of Way. Presented by Michelle Marx, Austin Transportation and Public Works. The presentation was made by Michelle Marx, Austin Transportation and Public Works. Staff briefing on proposed amendments to City Code Title 25 (Land Development Code), Case C20-2025-010, related to establishing a maximum building height limit within the Central Business District (CBD) zoning district, and amending the Downtown Density Bonus Program (DDBP) and Rainey Street Subdistrict regulations to modify allowable maximum building height when participating in the DDBP. Presented by Alan Pani, Austin Planning. Sponsors: Chair Salinas and Commissioner Carroll. The presentation was made by Alan Pani, Austin Planning. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. 5. 6. Presentation and discussion regarding Staff’s response to Resolution 20241121-073 related to Bird-Friendly design. Presented by Leslie Lilly, Austin Watershed Protection. The presentation was made by Leslie Lilly, Austin Watershed Protection. Discussion of analysis on the Design Commission's recommendations and the final approved Downtown Density Bonus Program projects from the past ten years. The motion to postpone items 5, 6, and 7 to November 17, 2025, was approved on Commissioner Howard’s motion, Commissioner McKinney’s second, on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Ladner was off the dais. Discussion of the draft Urban Design Guidelines regarding the sections: Introduction, Core Principle A: Protect Pedestrians and Bicyclists from the Elements, and Core Principle B: Protect Sidewalk and Bikeway Users from Motor Vehicles. The motion to postpone items 5, 6, and 7 to November 17, 2025, was approved on Commissioner Howard’s motion, Commissioner McKinney’s second, on a 10-0 …
MEMORANDUM TO: Site Plan and Building Permit Case Managers FROM: Jerry Rusthoven$ Housing & Planning Department DATE: September 8,2027 RE Density Bonus for 321 W. 6th Street under SP-2019-0516C, Expected address: 321 W. 6th Street, Austin, Texas 78701 This memorandum grants approvalto 321 W. 5th Street (the Project) subject to the stated conditions and requirements as of the date listed above. This memorandum also summarizes the requirements that must be met for the above-mentioned project to be granted the entitlements listed below through the Downtown Density Bonus Program as described in City Code section 25-2-586. The entitlements described below are associated only with the Project as described in the attached documents and site plan No. SP-2019-0516C and cannot be transferred to a different project. lf an applicant proposes a different project on the same site and seeks to use a Density Bonus, the applicant must re-apply for the Downtown Density Bonus Program using the rules in effect at the time of application. The entitlements granted herein do not run with the land. "A Certificate of Occupancy shall not be granted for this Project until atl requirements below are met. This memorandum shall be attached to allsite plan applications and building permit applications and the following note shall be placed in AMANDA and on the cover of all site plan applications and building permit applications: 'ACertificate of Occupancy shall not be granted for this Project untilall requirementsspecifiedinthememo f,EDensity Bonusfor32l W. 6th Street dated September 8, 2021 are met." Staffshallverify that all requirements have been met before issuins a certificate of occupancv by checking with Aaron D. Jenkins of the Zonirg &Urban Design Division, Housing and Planning Department, aaron.ienkins@austintexas.gov or (512) 97 4-t243. Requirements to be fulfilled before a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) may be granted for this project: 1. GreatStreets lmprovements: Complete construction of allGreat Streets improvements along all of the project's public right-of-way frontages consistent with the City of Austin Great Streets Standards and in accordance with the attached executed public restrictive covenant and Gatekeeper requirements of Ordinance No. 2014A522-A77. City of Austin Zoning & Urban Design Staff will inspect construction for compliance prior to granting a CO. Page 1 of 2 2. AEBG requirement: Prior to issuance of a CO, achieve a minimum two-star rating under the AEGB program using the ratings in effect at the time the Project is registered with the Austin Energy Green Building Program. 3. …
Contents - The previous draft of guidelines and core principles can be found at this link Assignments KEY- David Marissa Kevin Brendan Sophia WORKING DRAFT1 Introduction PURPOSE APPLICABILITY These categories determine if a project must comply with a specific design guideline. Private Projects Applies to: ● All projects participating in the Downtown Density Bonus Program (DDBP), and ● All private projects for which the City Council or the Planning Commission requests a review by the Design Commission. The applicability extends to these projects regardless of their participation in a density bonus program. The Design Commission will advise the Planning Commission and City Council based on the values and intent of the Urban Design Guidelines as is applicable or appropriate to the project. . Public Projects Applies to all municipal buildings and associated site development including any components of these projects that include Alternative Equivalent Compliance. The Design Commission reviews all municipal buildings and associated site development projects to ensure they demonstrate compliance with city design and sustainability standards (Council Resolution No. 20071129-046), including those seeking Subchapter E Design Standards Alternative Equivalent Compliance (AEC) (Council Resolution No. 20100923-086). Public Infrastructure Applies to all infrastructure projects commissioned by the City of Austin. (Resolution 20100819-035) All projects requiring a right-of-way vacation are required to be reviewed by the Design Commission (Council Resolution No. 20100805-028). Infrastructure is the constructed physical and biophysical elements, facilities, and systems of the built environment that provide a shared foundation for sustaining the health, safety, and welfare of a community. Infrastructure includes, but is not limited to, the following aspects of WORKING DRAFT2 planning and design: air quality management, communication, energy production and transmission (chemical, electrical, mechanical, and thermal), public safety (support for policing and fire suppression), transportation and movement, waste management (refuse recycling and disposal; sewage treatment), and water management (storage, conveyance, distribution, purification). SUBSTANTIAL COMPLIANCE In order for a project to be considered in Substantial Compliance with the Urban Design Guidelines, projects must address each core principle by complying with All Tier 1 Design Guidelines applicable to their project type as well as 12 of the Tier 2 Design Guidelines applicable to their project type. PRIORITIES Tier 1 Tier 1 indicates design guidelines that are mandatory. Applicants must demonstrate compliance with all Tier 1 Guidelines applicable to their project type. Tier 2 Tier 2 indicates design guidelines that are optional but highly recommended. Applicants may choose which …
Project Case Number Project Location In Date Bonus Request (FAR) Bonus Request (Height in ft Bonused Sq. Ft. Status of Project Design Commission (Working Group Date) Date Reviewed by Design Commission Design Commission Outcome DDBP Case Tracking Aspen Heights Apartments (now Rise) SP-2013-0434C 805 Nueces Street (516 W. 8th Street) 11/1/2013 8 5th & West SP-2013-0454C 501 W. 5th Street 1/31/2014 19.7 7th & Congress (Element & Aloft Hotels) SP-2014-0068C 619 & 621 Congress Ave. (109 E. 7th Street) 5/15/2014 21.2 5th & Brazos SP-2014-0406C 501 Brazos 10/3/2014 19.7 Third and Shoal SP-2015-0346C 607 W. 3rd 4/4/2016 10.2 Waterloo Park Tower SP-2016-0106C 1201 Red River 1/25/2017 405 Colorado SP-2016-0260C 405 Colorado 7/21/2016 Marriott at Cesar Chavez SP-2016-0300C 304 E. Cesar Chavez 10/6/2016 48 East Ave Apts SP-2016-0391C 48 East Avenue 8/9/2016 15 13 15 15 1400 Lavaca (now SXSW Center) SP-2016-0452C 1400 Lavaca 10/3/2016 4.11 Town Lake Lofts SP-2017-0107C 16 N I-35 Service Dr 7/22/2016 15 700 11th St SP-2017-0166C 700 11th St 9/7/2017 10.43 6th + Guadalupe SP-2017-0301C.F1 600 Guadalupe Street 5/24/2018 Block 71 (UT System Property) SP-2017-0311C 200 W. 6th St 10/26/2017 25 25 300 Colorado SP-2018-0096C 300 Colorado Street 5/22/2018 15.71 91 Red River SP-2018-0111C 91-93 Red River Street 7/5/2018 13.12 200 430 328 420 391 371 363 381 342 171 352 344 838 555 455 326 86,840 Approved with Memo 194,854 Approved with Memo 11/25/2013 2/24/2014 Recommendation of Compliance with additional recommendations (see letter) Recommendation of Non-Compliance with list of means for compliance (see letter) 145,977 Approved with Memo 5/27/2014 Recommendation of Compliance 408,999 Approved with Memo 10/27/2014 Recommendation of Compliance 77,720 Approved with Memo 4/25/2016 Recommendation of Compliance 133,140 Approved with Memo 3/27/2017 Recommendation of Compliance 85,634 Approved with Memo 1/9/2017 4/24/2017 & 5/22/2017 Recommendation of Non-Compliance 243,677 Approved with Memo 05/22/2017 & 6/05/2017 Recommendation of Compliance 125,055 Approved with Memo 1/23/2017 Recommendation of Compliance 66,600 Approved with Memo 11/28/2016 Recommendation of Compliance 109,214 Approved with Memo 12/19/2016 Recommendation of Compliance 85,702 Approved with Memo 10/23/2017 Motion for Recommendation of Compliance failed for lack of votes 565,109 Approved with Memo 8/27/2018 Recommendation of Compliance 1,296,080 Approved with Memo 11/27/2017 Recommendation of Compliance 191,424 Approved with Memo 6/25/2018 Recommendation of Compliance 164,768 Approved with Memo 9/24/2018 Recommendation of Compliance City of Austin - Planning Zoning Department - Urban Design Division - December 2018 The Travis Ph.1 SP-2018-0159C 80 Red River Street 2/22/2019 The Travis Ph.2 SP-2018-0159C …
REGULAR MEETING of the ARTS COMMISSION December 15, 2025, 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: Gina Houston - Chair, Acia Gray - Vice Chair, Keyheira Keys, Monica Maldonado, Felipe Garza, Heidi Schmalbach, Muna Hussaini, Celina Zisman, Faiza Kracheni, Sharron B Anderson, 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 November 17, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Update on actions taken at the December 1st Art in Public Places Panel by Commissioner Schmalbach 3. Update on actions taken at the November 19th Downtown Commission meeting by Commissioner Houston 4. Discussion and possible recommendations to Spanish language contracts for Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment (AACME) grants 5. Discussion on creating technical workshops at Cultural Centers STAFF BRIEFINGS 6. Staff briefing regarding an update on the Hotel Occupancy Tax by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor. 7. Staff briefing regarding update on the Cultural Arts Funding Programs by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor. 8. Staff briefing regarding an update on the AACME Funding Programs by Laura Odegaard, Acting Division Manager, AACME. 9. Staff briefing regarding an update on Art in Public Places by Jaime Castillo, Art in Public Places Manager. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 10. Approve a recommendation to support of Rally Austin 2026 Bond Proposal. 11. Approve a recommendation to City Council for recommended updates to the Art in Public Places Ordinance, Guidelines and Policies per City Council Resolution No. 20250306-029. Presentation by Jaime Castillo, Art in Public Places Manager, Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment 12. Action to reconvene the selection panel to recommend …
Recommended Updates to AIPP Policies Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment Art in Public Places | 12/15/2025 How’d we get here? Fall 2024 Interest from AIPP Panel to review Guidelines January 13, 2025 AIPP Panel approves Airport Phase I Artist Selections January 14, 2025 Panel Retreat Establish Guidelines Working Group January 30, 2025 City Council approved Convention Center Deaccessions February 2025 Austin Airport Artist Selections RCA pulled from Council agenda February 4, 2025 Past Matters starts Collection Survey February 24, 2025 February 24, 2025 Office of Arts, Culture, Music Office of Arts, Culture, & Entertainment created Music & Entertainment created March 6, 2025 City Council Resolution to assess the AIPP Ordinance & Guidelines April 7, 2025 AIPP Panel approves Airport Phase II Artist Selection March 2025 ACME leadership, City Manager, & City Council explore options to save artworks at Convention Center April 22, 2025 Artworks removed from Convention Center May 21, 2025 ACME Creative Reset launches June 5, 2025 City Council item to approve Airport Phase I and Phase II Artist Selections 2 Resolution No. 20250306-029 Phase 1 (March – May) Resolution + Program Assessment • Historical Data Benchmarking • Reviewed current polices, • contracts, programs Redlined current policies Reviewed program needs • • Targeted focus groups AIPP Panel Guidelines WG Themes Local artist participation Lack of understand of % for Art program Recommendations Update policies for clarity + inclusion Update communications + marketing for transparency + education Explore resources for artists • • • • • T N E M S S E S S A T N E M E G A G N E + S E M E H T S N O I T A D N E M M O C E R Phase 2 (June – August) Council Status Update Resolution • • Establish Cross-departmental WG + action plan for implementation Review draft Ordinance, Guidelines, and policies recommendations • Needs assessment plan + feasibility study UT Landmarks benchmarking ACME Leadership Updates Targeted focus groups Stakeholder internal + external Themes Lack of understand of % for Art program Artist support Recommendations Transparency of process Process flow chart Resources for artists • • • • • • • • Phase 3 (Sept-Dec) Policies Adoption Cross-departmental working group finalizes recommendations LAW Review • CMO + Director Updates • • Ordinance Adoption (Council) • Guidelines and policy updates (Panel + Commission) • • • • • Programmatic Updates …
ARTS COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Date: December 15, 2025 Subject: Recommendation that Legal be instructed to translate Cultural Contracts into the language used on the Application for Funding. Motioned By: Commissioner Houston Seconded By: Commissioner Recommendation Council instruct City Legal Department to issue Cultural Contracts in the language most familiar to the contractor; the language used in the Application for funding. Rationale Austin Artist must be able to fully and completely understand their rights and their obligations to the City under any contract they sign. Recent efforts by third parties to translate the Cultural Funding Contracts into Spanish have resulted in errors, such as the use of the word ‘financiamento’ when there is no financing component to any of the contracts. The City has the capability to translate contracts to ensure complete and thorough understanding. It is disingenuous to offer the Application in another language and then expect the Applicant to understand a contract that is not translated into that same language. Vote: For: Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: 1 of
Proposed Motion for Resolution: Support of Rally Austin’s 2026 Bond Proposal Motion: I move that the Austin Music Commission recommend that the City Council support Rally Austin’s “Keep Austin Ours” 2026 Bond Proposal for $259 Million, recognizing the organization’s ability to leverage public, private, and philanthropic resources to preserve Austin’s cultural and creative identity while reducing the City’s long-term financial burden. Further, I move that the Commission recommend City Council receive a formal briefing from Rally Austin to consider how its multi-purpose local government corporation model can: • Implement programs that secure a(cid:431)ordable creative and cultural, residential and commercial spaces; • Expand the Austin Cultural Trust and related initiatives supporting music and arts venues; • Reduce risk and administrative burden to the City through independent, community- driven project delivery; and • Strengthen Austin’s long-term economic and cultural resilience by investing in local, iconic, legacy and irreplaceable assets. The Commission a(cid:431)irms that Rally Austin’s proposal aligns with the City’s goals for equitable, community-based development and represents a proactive opportunity to secure Austin’s creative and cultural future through the 2026 Bond Program. CITY OF AUSTIN MUSIC COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2025-_____: SUPPORTING RALLY AUSTIN’S “KEEP AUSTIN OURS” 2026 BOND PROPOSAL WHEREAS, Austin’s cultural, creative, and music sectors are foundational to the city’s identity and economy, contributing over $1.8 billion in annual economic activity and supporting thousands of local jobs; and WHEREAS, the loss of a(cid:431)ordable creative, cultural, and commercial spaces poses a critical threat to Austin’s local music venues, legacy businesses, and community-serving organizations; and WHEREAS, Rally Austin, the City’s first multi-purpose local government corporation, was created by Austin City Council in 2020 to facilitate equitable, community-driven development and deliver projects that generate public benefit while leveraging public, private, and philanthropic resources; and WHEREAS, the Keep Austin Ours 2026 Bond Proposal presented by Rally Austin outlines comprehensive strategies for securing cultural, residential and commercial a(cid:431)ordability, including property acquisition, improvement programs, and expansion of the Austin Cultural Trust; and lease stabilization, capital long-term WHEREAS, Rally Austin’s model reduces long-term fiscal risk and administrative burden to the City by independently managing complex real estate and development projects while advancing Council priorities for equity, sustainability, and cultural preservation; and WHEREAS, supporting community-based economic development through the 2026 Bond Program aligns with the Music Commission’s commitment to strengthening Austin’s music ecosystem and ensuring creative and cultural spaces remain accessible to all residents; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED …
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 …
Funding Programs Update Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment | December 15, 2025 Funding Programs: Overview Austin Live Music Fund • $5,000 - $70,000 • Music Industry (musicians, independent promoters, venues) Creative Space Assistance Program • $60,000 • Commercial creative spaces Elevate • Up to $30,000 - $80,000 • Arts organizations, individual artists, creative businesses Heritage Preservation Grant • $50,000 - $250,000 • Preservation projects and activities AACME is providing grant funding for activities that enrich the public, broaden tourism, and contribute to the cultural fabric of Austin. 2 AACME Funding Programs: Extension NEW DEADLINE: December 19th at 6:59 p.m. WHY? ▪ New funding process for our community. ▪ Applicants who submitted their intake forms on time have adequate support and time to complete a brand-new process. ▪ Commitment to accessibility, equity, and meeting the community where they are. 3 REVISED Application Timeline 1. Intake Form Deadline: 6:59 p.m. Thursday, December 4, 2025 2. Eligibility Form Due by 6:59 p.m. Tuesday, December 16, 2025 (includes any edits!) 3. Application Due by 6:59 p.m. Friday, December 19, 2025 (includes any edits!) 4 REVISED Funding Program Timeline December 19, 2025 February 2026 April 2026 REVISED Application Deadline REVISED Panel Meetings Occur 6:59 PM REVISED Funding distribution begins (Activities are still for calendar year 2026) REVISED Austin Live Music Fund and Creative Space Assistance Program scored REVISED Panelists trained and assigned (Elevate and Heritage Preservation Grant) REVISED Funding Decisions announced Nexus Application Opens Thrive, Elevate, Austin Live Music Fund, and Heritage Preservation Grant application cycle begins January 2026 March 2026 July 2026 5 Funding Programs: Application Status • 2,364 Intake Forms Submitted (2,333 EN; 31 SP) Eligibility Forms Sent Eligibility Forms Submitted Applications Sent Applications Submitted Austin Live Music Fund Creative Space Assistance Elevate Heritage Preservation EN SP EN SP EN SP EN SP 1,377 1,057 16 297 10 5 125 0 1,399 1,002 25 247 2 14 116 0 951 4 59 0 818 9 65 0 577 1 33 0 395 2 30 0 ALL PROGRAMS TOTAL 3,373 2,319 1,906 1,038 6 Funding Programs: Application Comparison NOTE: NOT FINAL DUE TO EXTENSION ▪ 2,319 Eligibility Forms Submitted ▪ 1,062 for Austin Live Music Fund (17.5% Increase from 2024) ▪ 125 for Creative Space Assistance Program (17.8% decrease from 2023) ▪ 1,016 for Elevate (83% increase from 2024) ▪ 116 for Heritage Preservation Grant (427% increase from 2024) ▪ Roughly 81% of submitted …
Cultural Arts Funding Update Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment | December 15, 2025 Agenda 1. Contracts & Payments 2. Grant Funded Activities 2 Contracts & Payments Contracts & Payments (as of 11/10/25) 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 230 230 (100%) 230 (100%) 230 (100%) 224 (97%) 97 (42%) 51 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 50 (98%) n/a Total Dist. to date Total Allocation $8,635,000 (93%) $9,265,000 $245,000 (96%) $255,000 35 35 (100%) 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 4 Grant Funded Activities FY 24-25 Cultural Funding Grantee Activities Allday Pizza x Getting in Bed with the Pizza Man December 15 Katie Folger (District 9) – Allday Pizza We Are The Chorus Holiday Sign-Along December 15 Armstrong Community Music School (District 8) – Violet Crown City Church The Weight of Rest December 16 Jessy Wilson (District 1) – 2032B S Lamar Blvd Veneno Film Screening December 16 Oro Dance Company (District 1) – Trinity Street Playhouse 6 FY 24-25 Cultural Funding Grantee Activities Parade December 4 – 20 Ground Floor Theatre (District 3) – Ground Floor Theatre The Summer Sauron Turned Pretty December 18 – 20 The Museum of Human Achievement (MoHA) (District 3) – MoHA Red Light Lit Austin December 19 Red Light Lit Austin (District 1) – RichesArt Gallery Allgo 40th Anniversary December 16 allgo (District 1) – Vibehaus ATX 7 FY 24-25 Cultural Funding Grantee Activities WHY ARE WE LIKE THIS? December 4 – 20 Lauren Sanders (District 1) – Ground Floor Theatre Mobile Echo Artist Workshop Tuesdays and Thursdays through December 30 Urban Echo (District 1) – MoHA Bilingual Dinosaurs! January 24 augzoo (District 1) – Carver Museum Boyd Vance Theatre 8 Questions? 9
Hotel Occupancy Tax Update Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment | December 15, 2025 Hotel Occupancy Tax – November 2025 Approved Budget November Year-to-date H/MOT Penalties & Interest Hotel/Motel Occupancy Tax Total Revenue $511,252 $166,777,013 $167,288,265 Transfer to Cultural Arts Fund $15,968,425 $107,002 $6,452,814 $6,559,815 $627,810 $146,884 $34,368,491 $34,515,375 $3,297,566 • Total HOT Collections November 2025 = $6,559,815 • 21% of FY26 Approved Budget of $167,288,265 • Cultural Arts Fund November 2025 = $627,810 2 Hotel Occupancy Collections – Significant Contributing Events • Austin City Limits Music Festival (Oct 3-5, Oct 10-12) • Austin Oktoberfest (October 11) • Formula 1 Unites States Grant Prix at Circuit of the Americas (October 17-19) • Austin Film Festival (October 23 – 30) AUS Passenger Totals: 2,086,037 (October 2025) 3 HOT Cultural Arts Fund – FY26 Progress Approved Budget $15,968,425 CAF Actuals $3,297,566 4 HOT Cultural Arts Fund – Quarterly Comparison $15.65 M $15.57 M $15.34 M $12.9 M 5 Questions? 6
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12 AT 5:30PM AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W 2nd STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch- atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Nekaybaw Watson, Nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov, 512-974-2562. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Conor Kelly, Chair Elisabeth Meyer, Vice Chair Gabriel Arellano Lisa Chang DeLawnia Comer-HaGans CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA Audrea Diaz Mickey Fetonte Lynn Murphy Elizabeth Slade Kristen Vassallo The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting on November 14, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. Presentation by Gary Aaron, Senior Business Process Consultant, Austin Equity and Inclusion regarding Mapping Opportunity and identifying disparities across different Austin communities. Discussion regarding event mobility accessibility for Texas Tribune Festival and Trail of Lights. 4. Discussion regarding the identification of legislative agenda priorities to share with Austin Government Relations as they prepare for the next Texas and federal congressional sessions. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve the addition of new members to the AWEbility Festival Working Group. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Nekaybaw Watson or nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov to request service or for additional information. Austin City Clerk’s Office, 512-974-2562 at at For more information on the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities, please contact Nekaybaw Watson at nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov.
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes November 14, 2025 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Friday, November 14, 2025 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular meeting on Friday, November 14, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St. Room 1101, Austin, Texas. Chair Kelly called the Mayor’s Committee on People with Disabilities Meeting to order at 5:31 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Conor Kelly, Chair Gabriel Arellano Audrea Diaz Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Elisabeth Meyer, Vice Chair Lisa Chang DeLawnia Comer-HaGans Lynn Murphy Kristen Vassallo Commissioners Absent: Mickey Fetonte Elizabeth Slade PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Melinda Crockom- Congratulations for the AWEbility Festival success!! APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting minutes on September 12, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes from the meeting of September 12, 2025 on Chair Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Arellano’s second passed on a 7-0 vote. Vice Chair Meyer was off the dais. Commissioners Fetonte and Slade were absent. 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes November 14, 2025 2. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting on July 11, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes from the meeting of September 12, 2025 on Chair Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Vassallo’s second passed on a 7-0 vote. Vice Chair Meyer was off the dais. Commissioners Fetonte and Slade were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Staff briefing regarding therapeutic recreation programs. Presentation by Sara Carlson, Recreation Program Manager, Austin Parks and Recreation and Evan Kessler, Recreation Program Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation. Presentation was provided by Sara Carlson, Recreation Program Manager, Austin Parks and Recreation, Evan Kessler, Recreation Program Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation, and Jodi Jay, Assistant Director, Austin Parks and Recreation. 4. Staff briefing regarding the Digital Accessibility Compliance Project. Presentation by Luisa Apolaya Torres, Senior Service Designer, Austin Technology Services. Presentation was provided by Apolaya Torres, Senior Service Designer, Austin Technology Services. DISCUSSION ITEMS 5. Presentation of AWEbility Festival Awards. Community Award to be presented to ADAPT of Texas. Government Award to be presented to Travis County Services for Deaf. Individual Award to be presented to Hayley Broadway. Awards given. 6. Discussion of the AWEbility WEE Festival regarding a recap of the event. Discussion was held. 7. Discussion regarding the submission of budget priorities to Budget Working Group Members. (Current Members: Chair …
Mapping Opportunity Gary Aaron | Business Process Consultant Sr. Shivani Datar | Business Process Specialist City of Austin's Commitment In every community, there are conditions—some visible, others deeply embedded—that shape how people live, work, and move through the city. Austin is committed to becoming the most livable city for all identities… Mobility Index The City is developing an index to better align department priorities with community priorities. This index will help: Identify neighborhood- level conditions that affect people’s daily lives Identify where barriers to opportunity persist Guide service delivery and decision-making with data and community insight Purposeful Design Neighborhood-level conditions are grouped into themes Reflect core dimensions of community life Organize conditions into actionable categories Identify shared needs and track progress ex. Limited English Proficiency ex. Median Household Income Belonging & Mobility Livelihood & Work Health & Well Being ex. Access to Health Insurance Indicators Health & Wellbeing ⚬ Access to Health Resources ￭ Percent uninsured ￭ Percent of children in poverty ⚬ Functional and Physical Health Context ￭ Residents with a disability ￭ Estimated Annual Loss Due to Environmental Hazard & Weather Livelihood & Work ⚬ Economic Stability Indicators ￭ Median household income ￭ Is this tract in concentrated poverty? ￭ Underemployment rate ⚬ Housing Stability and Cost Burdens ￭ Eviction Rate ￭ Percent living in poverty ￭ Percent of income spent on utilities Belonging & Mobility ⚬ Social Inclusion and Access ￭ Percent of households that speak limited English ￭ Percent of households with no internet access ￭ Percent of population aged 65+ with an ambulatory difficulty ⚬ Education, Environment, and Household Supports ￭ Percent of people with less than a high school diploma ￭ Percent of people with low physical activity ￭ Household Support Risk Score Building Together | Listening to What Matters Most to Our Community ❖What do you see as the most important issues or opportunities in your community today? ❖In your view, what are the key drivers of success or opportunity in your community? ❖What changes would have the greatest impact on mobility and opportunity in your community? Thank You!
