Posting Language ..Title Authorize a contract for storm water ponds maintenance and repairs for Austin Energy with BPI-Bauerle Partners Inc., for an initial term of one year with up to two one-year extension options in an amount not to exceed $970,000. Funding: $215,555 is available in the Operating Budget of Austin Energy. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. ..Body Lead Department Austin Financial Services. Client Department(s) Austin Energy. Fiscal Note Funding in the amount of $215,555 is available in the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Operating Budget of Austin Energy. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. Procurement Language: Austin Financial Services issued an Invitation for Bids solicitation IFB 1100 CPG1003 for these services. The solicitation was issued on August 11, 2025 and closed on September 30, 2025. Of the three offers received, the bids submitted by the recommended contractor were the lowest responsive bids received. A complete solicitation package, including a tabulation of the bids received, is available for viewing on the City’s website. This information can currently be found at https://financeonline.austintexas.gov/afo/account_services/solicitation/solicitation_details.cfm?sid=142775 . MBE/WBE: This solicitation was reviewed for subcontracting opportunities in accordance with City Code Chapter 2-9B (Minority-Owned and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Procurement Program). For the services required for this solicitation, there were no subcontracting opportunities, therefore, no subcontracting goals were established. For More Information: Direct questions regarding this Recommendation for Council Action to Austin Financial Services - Central Procurement at FSDCentralProcurementRCAs@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2500. Respondents to the solicitation and their Agents should direct all questions to the Authorized Contact Person identified in the solicitation. Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action: January 12, 2026 - To be reviewed by the Electric Utility Commission. Additional Backup Information: The contract will provide maintenance and repair services to storm water ponds maintained by Austin Energy. The contract will include preventative maintenance of vegetation control and debris removal as well as corrective maintenance on an as needed basis. These services protect water quality, help reduce flooding and minimize risk of damage to infrastructure in and around the area and are required to ensure storm water ponds operate in compliance with all local, state, and federal environmental criteria and regulations. This contract will replace an existing contract for storm water ponds maintenance and repairs. The new Item 9 contract will service seventeen sights, which is an increase of ten locations from …
ELECTRIC UTILITY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20260112-12 Revised January 12, 2026 Subject: Recommendation regarding consideration of gas peaker units for Austin Energy Motioned By: Seconded By: Recommendation: The Electric Utility Commission recommends to the City Council that the full process for evaluating carbon-free alternatives and engaging the community committed to in the Austin Energy Resource, Generation and Climate Protection Plan to 2035 is conducted in a robust and transparent manner before any action is taken regarding the purchase or commitment to purchase any natural gas peaking generators. This includes: 1. A full review of the results of the all-resources RFP at the Electric Utility Commission and City Council to consider all alternatives for both generation and energy management within the Austin load zone that could avoid the need for gas peakers. 2. Commitment to the identified implementation process that must include feasibility, pre-development, development and construction phases. Each phase should include the presentation of detailed results to the City Council, including incorporation of City Council feedback and community input. 3. The process includes robust community engagement with potential evening meetings to solicit feedback on possible sites for any possible additional local resources, including gas peakers, if identified as necessary. 4. Continued analysis and work on projects that increase local transmission capacity to increase reliability, reduce congestion costs and bring more power into Austin Energy’s service area, including the reduction in the need to add local power generation. 1 of 3 Item 12 v2 The analysis of all the alternatives, including any potential gas peakers, shall include, but not be limited to, 1. Economic modeling of the most viable alternatives over a twenty five-year timeline. 2. Modeling of the carbon emissions and other air pollution emissions of each of the options. 3. Analysis of important changes in the ERCOT market and infrastructure since the 2023 and 2024 Generation Plan modeling, including, as appropriate, approval of the 765 KV grid backbone, implementation of Real-Time Co-Optimization Plus Batteries (RTC+B), other completed and planned transmission upgrades, solar and energy storage deployment in ERCOT, additional loads on the system, volatility, and regulations that could affect Austin Energy’s load zone requirements and potential costs from 2025 to 2035. 4. Review and analysis of the Austin Energy utility scale batteries to be installed by 2027 as to their effectiveness in providing significant in-load zone power requirements. 5. Capability of new resources to provide ERCOT black start capability that are …
ELECTRIC UTILITY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Monday, January 12, 2026 ELECTRIC UTILITY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Monday, January 12, 2026 The Electric Utility Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Monday, January 12, 2026, at Austin Energy Headquarters, 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723. Chair David Tuttle called the Electric Utility Commission meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Commissioner Dave Tuttle, Chair; Commissioner Lauren Bellomy; Commissioner Cesar Benavides: Commissioner Al Braden: Commissioner Chris Gillett; Commissioner Chris Kirksey; and Commissioner Cyrus Reed. Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Commissioner Raul Alvarez; Commissioner Jonathon Blackburn; Commissioner Joshua Rhodes; and Commissioner Kaiba White, Vice Chair. Commissioners Absent: None PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL • David Leuesque – eight questions regarding reliability • Jorge Viero – opposition of deposits for gas peakers • Jen Cregar – support of commission’s recommendation, item 12 • Matt Weldon – support of commission’s recommendation, item 12 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Electric Utility Commission Regular Called Meeting on November 10, 2025. The motion approving the minutes of the Electric Utility Commission meeting on November 10, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Bellomy’s motion, Commissioner Braden’s second on a 10-0 vote with Commissioner Alvarez o(cid:431) the dais. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend approval authorizing a contract for customer satisfaction and benchmarking studies for residential and business utility customers for Austin Energy with J.D. Power, for an initial term of two years with up to three one-year extension options in an amount not to exceed $1,100,000. Funding: $320,000 is available in the Operating Budget of Austin Energy. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. ELECTRIC UTILITY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Monday, January 12, 2026 The motion to recommend approval authorizing a contract for customer satisfaction and benchmarking studies for residential and business utility customers for Austin Energy with J.D. Power, was recommended on Commissioner Reed’s motion, Commissioner Bellomy’s second on a 10-1 vote with Vice Chair White voting against. 3. Recommend approval authorizing an amendment to the contracts for engineering services for the Austin Energy Sta(cid:431) Augmentation, Engineering, and Related Engineering Services for Electric Systems and Technical Services Rotation List with HDR Engineering Inc. and Allegis Group Holdings, Inc. to increase the amount by $15,000,000 for a revised total contract amount not to exceed $85,875,000. Funding: Funding is available in the Capital Budget of Austin Energy. The motion to recommend …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AUSTIN-TRAVIS COUNTY FOOD POLICY BOARD MONDAY, JANUARY 12, 2026, AT 5:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1406 6310 WILHELMINO DELCO DRIVE, AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Amanda Rohlich, (512) 974-1364, Amanda.Rohlich@austintexas.gov. CURRENT AUSTIN-TRAVIS COUNTY FOOD POLICY BOARD MEMBERS: Joi Chevalier, Chair Lisa Barden, Vice-Chair Andrea Abel Marissa Bell Beth Corbett Nitza Cuevas Hilda Gutiérrez Kacey Hanson Seanna Marceaux Erin McDonald Natalie Poulos Matt Simon Andrew Smith AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Board Member roll call and introduction of new and existing board members. 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 Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board Regular Meeting on Monday, November 17, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding Austin-Travis County Food Plan Implementation. Presentation by Edwin Marty, Food Policy Manager, Austin Climate Action & Resilience and Yaira Robinson, Assistant Director of Environmental Programs, Travis County. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Report out from Joint Sustainability Committee on November 19, 2025. Discuss the Regional Food System Council Local Collaborative Coalition and opportunities to participate. Report out from the working group to expand access to nutritious foods through improvement to existing materials and resources and explore alternate or expanded hours for existing resources. Report out from the working group to participate in the USDA Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) application for funding for conservation easements as a regional partnership. Report out from the working group to explore revenue generators such a sugar sweetened beverage tax, a surplus food donation requirement for events, and/or a percent conservation fund from all land purchases or new developments. Review Board Member Assignments. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 9. Discuss and take possible action on the Joint Sustainability Committee liaison appointment. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 10. Presentation from Austin Economic Development on Del Valle …
Austin-Travis County Food Plan ATCFPB January 2026 – Staff Update City of Austin Food Plan Updates Milan Urban Food Policy Pact North American Regional Gathering City of Austin ACAR will co-host the first ever North and Central American gathering in March 2026. We will be sharing more about how the Food Policy Board can be involved with this exciting event. City Staff Report Back to Council Regarding the Food Plan ● City staff provided another Memo to Council in November 2025 ● City staff will provide a next Memo in Spring 2026 Food Plan Implementation Collaborative Contract ● City and County staff developed an Interlocal Agreement to support a Food Plan implementation collaborative (Strategy 9.1) ● City staff released an RFP for support of an implementation collaborative. The RFP has closed and staff have evaluated the proposals and selected a consultant. ● The contract was approved on the December 11th City Council. ● Woollard Nichols Tores (WNT) was selected as the Consultant. Food Plan Implementation Convening ● First Food Plan Implementation Convening occurred on May 9th, 2025 ● Food Plan webinar occurred on August 7th, 2025 ● WNT will be presenting to the Food Policy Board in March 2026 ● Future Implementation work will be lead by WNT Food Plan - Relevant Budget Events ● The City has revised the FY26 budget (base & amendments) that was approved by Council in September. ● Austin Public Health had to cut existing social service contracts across the board by 10%. City of Austin 2026 Bond Travis County Food Plan Updates Navigating Processes + Update to Commissioners Court ● All six County member seats are up for (re)appointments. County members, please reach out to me if you need support! ● Working toward a Court item to ask Commissioners Court to extend County terms from 2 to 4 years ● Working toward a Food Plan implementation update for Commissioners Court Thank You! www.austintexas.gov/food /austinsustainability
Austin Public Health WIC:Recent Participation Trends Our Concerns: Downward trends are expected from October from December, due to theholidays. Clinics have reduced hours and clients may travel for theholidays and miss appointments.2025, however, the loss of participants was more than double the typicaldecrease we usually see.We are unsure of the root cause. We are continuing to post on socialmedia, sending reminder text messages for redemption, and following upwith community partner referrals3 Ensuring all categorically eligible citizens are being referred to WIC to screen for program eligibility Call to Action:
AUSTIN-TRAVIS COUNTY FOOD POLICY BOARD MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 12, 2026 AUSTIN-TRAVIS COUNTY FOOD POLICY BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, JANUARY 12, 2026 The Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board (ATCFPB) convened on Monday, January 12, at the City of Austin Permitting and Development Center, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr., Room 1406, Austin, TX 78752. Board Members in Attendance: Joi Chevalier - Chair, Lisa Barden - Vice-Chair, Andrea Abel, Marissa Bell, Beth Corbett, Nitza Cuevas, Hilda Gutiérrez, Kacey Hanson, Seanna Marceaux, Erin McDonald, Natalie Poulos, Matt Simon, Andrew Smith Board Members Absent: None Staff in Attendance: Edwin Marty (City of Austin - remote), Angela Baucom (City of Austin), Amanda Rohlich (City of Austin), Yaira Robinson (Travis County) CALL TO ORDER Joi Chevalier called the meeting to order at 5:05 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Kelly Nichols – APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Board Member Andy Smith motioned to approve the meeting minutes from the Regular Meeting on November 17, 2025, with Marissa Bell seconding the motion. Minutes passed on a 13-0. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding Austin-Travis County Food Plan Implementation. Presentation by Edwin Marty, Food Policy Manager, Austin Climate Action & Resilience and Yaira Robinson, Assistant Director of Environmental Programs, Travis County (see back-up materials for presentation). DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Report out from Joint Sustainability Committee on November 19, 2025. Presented recommendation to support farmland acquisition and preservation to the JSC and it was approved with one minor clarification of language. There were other presentations and discussion regarding solar on City facilities, Commercial Landscape Survey, and Austin Resource Recovery Fleet Electrification. AUSTIN-TRAVIS COUNTY FOOD POLICY BOARD MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 12, 2026 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Discuss the Regional Food System Council Local Collaborative Coalition and opportunities to participate. Report out from the working group to expand access to nutritious foods through improvement to existing materials and resources and explore alternate or expanded hours for existing resources. Meeting on Friday to determine meeting cadence and SPOC to serve in Hilda’s absence. Report out from the working group to participate in the USDA Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) application for funding for conservation easements as a regional partnership. Took presentation to Bond Election Advisory Task Force working group for potential inclusion in bond election. They wanted to know details about implementation. Report out from the working group to explore revenue generators such a sugar sweetened beverage tax, a surplus food donation requirement for events, …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION MONDAY, JANUARY 12, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, ROOM 1101 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Animal Advisory 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, contact Nekaybaw Watson at nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2562. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Dr. Paige Nilson, Chair, D4 Koby Ahmed, Mayor Ryan Clinton, Travis County Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Jennifer Daniel, D6 Erin Ferguson, D8 Ann Linder, Vice Chair, D3 Whitney Holt, D5 Sarah Huddleston, D9 David Loignon, D10 Nancy Nemer, Travis County Jo Anne Norton, Parliamentarian, D7 CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Animal Advisory Commission Regular meeting on December 8, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports. Presentation by Rolando Fernandez, Interim Chief Animal Services Officer, Austin Animal Services. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation from Stephanie Bilbro, Director of Operations, Austin Pets Alive! regarding the quarterly reports and an update on the Barn Cats Program. 4. Final update on the recruitment process for the Austin Animal Services Director by Susana Carbajal, Assistant City Manager. DICUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a list of legislative priorities to be supported by recommendations for the upcoming legislative session. 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 email or call Nekaybaw Watson at Austin City Clerk’s Office, at nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov or 512-974- 2562 to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Animal Advisory Commission, please contact Nekaybaw Watson at nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2562.
ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES 12.08.2025 ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2025 The Animal Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, December 8, 2025, at Austin City Hall 301 W 2nd Street, Room 1101 Austin, Texas. Chair Nilson called the Animal Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Dr. Paige Nilson, Chair, D4 Jennifer Daniel, D6 Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Erin Ferguson, D8 Jo Anne Norton, D7 Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Ann Linder, Vice Chair, D3 Koby Ahmed, Mayor Ryan Clinton, Travis County Whitney Holt, D5 Sarah Huddleston, D9 Nancy Nemer, Travis County Jo Anne Norton, Parliamentarian, D7 Commissioners Absent: David Loignon, D10 PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Robyn Katz Gonzales- State of Animals in Austin Beverly Luna- General Animal Issues and Emergency Services Andrea Greig-Shelter Procedures Rochelle Vickery- Happy Holidays and Good Fix Julie Oliver- Unjust Termination Pia Phillips- Meeting Procedures Pat Valls Trelles- History of No Kill in Austin 1 ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES 12.08.2025 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Animal Advisory Commission regular meeting on November 10, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of November 10, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Norton’s motion, Commissioner Dulzaides’ second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Clinton abstained. Commissioner Holt was off the dais. Commissioner Loignon was absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports. Presentation by Rolando Fernandez, Interim Chief Animal Services Officer, Austin Animal Services. The presentation was made by Jason Garza, Deputy Director of Animal Services, Austin Animal Services and Rolando Fernandez, Interim Chief Animal Services Officer, Austin Animal Services. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Update on the recruitment process for the Austin Animal Services Director. Presentation by Rodney Crain, Senior Consultant, MGT. Presentation was made by Rodney Crain, Senior Consultant, MGT. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Will be emailed to staff liaison. The motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:48 p.m. was approved on Commissioner Daniel’s motion, Commissioner Dulzaides’ second without objection. The minutes were approved at the DATE meeting on BOARD MEMBER’s motion, BOARD MEMBER second on a (vote count). 2 ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES 12.08.2025 3
Fiscal Year 2026 December 2025 § 3-1-27 - Reporting by Animal Shelter (1) Number of impounded animals December 2025 (FY26) saw 627 domestic animals impounded at AAS. There was an 8.87% decrease from November 2025 which brought in 688 domestic animals the shelter. to number This the categories of wildlife, bird (wildlife), opossums, and reptile (wildlife). excludes (2) Number of animals euthanized a description of the animal, including age, species, and size, and the reason for euthanasia Species Primary Breed Owl Domestic Shorthair American Shorthair Reason Injured Injured Injured Bird (wildlife) Cat Cat Cat Cat Cat Cat Cat Cat Cat Cat Cat Cat Dog Dog Dog Dog Dog Dog Dog Dog Dog Dog Dog Kitten Kitten Kitten Kitten Kitten Domestic Shorthair Neurological Domestic Shorthair Neurological Domestic Shorthair Su(cid:431)ering Domestic Shorthair Su(cid:431)ering Domestic Medium Hair Su(cid:431)ering Domestic Shorthair Su(cid:431)ering Domestic Shorthair Su(cid:431)ering Domestic Shorthair Su(cid:431)ering Domestic Shorthair Su(cid:431)ering Domestic Medium Hair Toxicity American Pit Bull Terrier DB4 Bite Golden Retriever DB4 Bite American Pit Bull Terrier Court Order Border Collie Court Order American Pit Bull Terrier Court Order American Pit Bull Terrier Court Order Labrador Retriever English Bulldog Poodle - Miniature Dachshund Su(cid:431)ering Su(cid:431)ering Su(cid:431)ering Su(cid:431)ering Chihuahua - Smooth Trauma Domestic Shorthair Domestic Shorthair Agonal Agonal Domestic Shorthair Su(cid:431)ering Domestic Shorthair Su(cid:431)ering Domestic Shorthair Su(cid:431)ering Wildlife Bat - Little Brown Myotis Rabies Risk Wildlife Fox - Grey Rabies Risk Wildlife Bat - Unspecified Rabies Risk Wildlife Raccoon Rabies Risk Wildlife Bat - Little Brown Myotis Rabies Risk Wildlife Bat - Little Brown Myotis Rabies Risk Wildlife Raccoon Wildlife Raccoon Rabies Risk Rabies Risk Wildlife Bat - Unspecified Rabies Risk Wildlife Skunk - Striped Su(cid:431)ering Puppy Chihuahua - Smooth Su(cid:431)ering (3) Live-release rate for non-wildlife animals December 2025 (FY26) saw a for live-release of domestic 94.98%. rate animals This means that of all outcomes for the month of December, 94.98% were positive and involved rescue adoption, transfer, return-to-owner, etc. (4) Animals adopted December 2025 (FY26) saw a slight dog adoptions after December 12th. decrease in to is due temporary the This emergency implementation of procedures during the Canine Pneumovirus outbreak at Austin Animal Services. (5) Animals returned to owner December 2025 (FY26) saw 68 animals reclaimed. Animal Protection O(cid:431)icers (APOs) returned 22 animals to their owners in the field. (6) Animals in foster care in the month and on day of reporting 301 di(cid:431)erent people/families fostered. As of January 8, there are …
Barn Cat Program APA! Barn Cat Program Overview APA!’s Barn Cat Program provides Travis County’s only consistent live outcome for a specific group of cats who cannot be adopted or safely returned outdoors. These cats are typically truly feral or unsocialized—they avoid human interaction, may be fearful or aggressive in indoor settings, and do not thrive in indoor home environments. Many are not eligible for TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) or SNR (Shelter-Neuter-Return) including: ● ● Zoning restrictions (e.g., high-density housing, highways) Lack of a safe return location When return or adoption aren’t viable options. APA!’s program offers a lifesaving, humane alternative by placing these cats in: ● Outdoor homes (barns, sheds, warehouses, etc.) ● With daily food, water, and shelter ● After a 2–4 week acclimation period and with adopter vetting and education Why this program exists The problem we’re solving • A small subset of cats entering Austin Animal Services and other shelters are not safe or appropriate for traditional indoor adoption (e.g., truly feral/fearful). • When TNR or SNR is not viable, these cats have no other live outcome. • Barn cat placement is a humane, managed alternative: it saves lives while reducing pressure on shelter housing and behavior resources. How this fits with community cat strategies ● ● ● ● ● Return is preferred whenever possible; barn placement is used when return is not feasible. Placements are screened and supported—this is not “release and hope.” Provides a humane outcome for cats who would otherwise be at high risk of euthanasia. Creates managed placements with caretaker responsibility (daily care + shelter). Relieves pressure on shelter space and behavior resources by moving the right population that is least likely to succeed as indoor pets. Barn Cat Eligibility “Barn” can include • Barns, sheds, stables • Warehouses / businesses • Workshops / garages • Other safe, ventilated enclosures Minimum eligibility (must meet all) This is not • Apparently healthy • Not declawed • History of living outside • Not a candidate for return • Dumping cats outside • A substitute for TNR/Return when return is possible • A placement for cats who can thrive as indoor pets Safeguards: how we minimize risk Medical + identification Home screening Acclimation + follow-up • Spay/neuter • Vaccines • Microchip • Parasite prevention • Ear-tipped • Caretaker commits to daily food + water • Safe shelter structure (barn/shed/etc.) • Avoid high-risk placements near busy roads • …
Outcome vs. Intake FY 26 Information is from October 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025 Intake Year (fiscal) Dog totals Cat totals Totals Outcome Year (fiscal) Dog totals Cat totals Totals Difference of outcomes - intakes Dog totals Cat totals Totals Cats - Outcomes Adoption RTO/RTO Adopt Transfer Euthanasia Died Missing SNR (former SCRP) Total Dog - Outcomes Adoption RTO/RTO Adopt Transfer Euthanasia Died Missing Total 2026 966 1323 2289 2026 922 1335 2257 2026 -44 12 -32 2026 809 59 196 74 35 2 160 1335 2026 410 173 289 37 12 1 922
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2026, 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 December 12, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion regarding budget priorities from past budget cycles and new budget priorities. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. 4. Approve a list of legislative priorities for the federal and state government. Update membership for Budget Working Group. (Current members: Chair Kelly, Commissioners Chang and Vassallo) 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 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2025 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular meeting on Friday, December 12, 2025, at 301 W 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Chair Kelly called the Commission on Immigrant Affairs meeting to order at 5:33 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Conor Kelly, Chair Gabriel Arellano Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Lisa Chang Audrea Diaz Mickey Fetonte Elizabeth Slade Kristen Vassallo Commissioners Absent: Elisabeth Meyer, Vice Chair Delawnia Comer-HaGans Lynn Murphy PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Regular Meeting on November 14, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes of the November 14, 2025, regular meeting of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities was approved on Chair Kelly’s motion, 1 Commissioner Chang’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Vassallo was off the dais. Vice Chair Meyer and Commissioners Comer-HaGans and Murphy were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation by Gary Aaron, Senior Business Process Consultant, Austin Equity and Inclusion regarding Mapping Opportunity and identifying disparities across different Austin communities. Presentation was provided by Gary Aaron, Senior Business Process Consultant, Austin Equity and Inclusion and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity and Inclusion regarding Mapping Opportunity and identifying dipartites across different Austin communities. 3. Discussion regarding event mobility accessibility for Texas Tribune Festival and Trail of Lights. Discussion was postponed for the February meeting without objection. 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 was postponed until the next meeting without objection. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve the addition of new members to the AWEbility Festival Working Group. The motion to approve the addition of Nina Centeno, Amanda Tuitt, and Scott Keller were approved on Commissioner Arellano’s motion, Chair Kelly’s second on a 7-0 vote. Vice Chair Meyer and Commissioners Comer-HaGans and Murphy were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned without objection at 6:00 p.m. on Chair Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Arellano’s second. Vice Chair Meyer and Commissioners Comer-HaGans and Murphy were absent. 2
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR MEETING MINUTES FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2026 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular meeting on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 301 W 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Chair Kelly called the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Conor Kelly, Chair Mickey Fetonte Lynn Murphy Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Gabriel Arellano Lisa Chang Kristen Vassallo Commissioners Absent: Elisabeth Meyer, Vice Chair Delawnia Comer-HaGans Audrea Diaz Elizabeth Slade PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Regular Meeting on December 12, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes of the December 12, 2025, regular meeting of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities was approved on Chair Kelly’s motion, 1 Commissioner Vassallo’s second on a 6-0 vote. Vice Chair Meyer and Commissioners Comer-HaGans, Diaz, and Slade were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion regarding budget priorities from past budget cycles and new budget priorities. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Approve a list of legislative priorities for the federal and state government. Discussed. 4. Update membership for Budget Working Group. (Current members: Chair Kelly, Commissioners Chang and Vassallo.) Withdrawn. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Set a discussion item about Bob Kafka, Co-Founder of ADAPT. Approve Budget Recommendations Joint Inclusion Commission representative update about budget recommendations the commission should consider Invite and ADA representative to speak with the commission about programmatic updates from 2025. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned without objection at 5:48 pm on Chair Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Vassallo’s second. Vice Chair Meyer and Commissioners Comer-HaGans, Diaz, and Slade were absent. The minutes of the January 9, 2026, regular meeting of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities were approved during the February 13, 2026 regular meeting of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities on Chair Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Vassallo’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Chang was off the dais. Commissioner Fetonte was absent. 2
REGULAR MEETING OF THE COLLEGE STUDENT COMMISSION FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2026, AT 3:00 P.M. CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 301 W 2ND ST AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the College Student 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, contact Abrianna Citta, 210-232-4773, abrianna.citta01@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Andrew Lyon, Chair, Austin Community College Elisha Mac Gregor, Austin Community College Sage Zuniga, Austin Community Colleg Mekides Guta, Concordia University Lorian Lopez, Concordia University Aidyn Ogle, Concordia University Aidan Cournoyer, University of Texas at Austin Carson Domey, University of Texas at Austin Kritika Ramesh, University of Texas at Austin Caleb Brizuela, Vice Chair, Huston-Tillotson University Camila Colin, St. Edward’s University Caroline Schilling, St. Edward’s University AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the College Student Commission Regular meeting on December 12th, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Presentation by Central Texas Food Bank regarding the College Food Access Program. Presentation by Emily Larsen and Anurita Mittra. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 3. 4. 5. Update from TRANSPORTATION working group on their priorities. Update from MENTAL HEALTH working group on their priorities. Update from HOUSING working group on their priorities. 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 Dr. Chiquita Eugene at the Youth Initiatives Office, at chiquita.eugene@austintexas.gov or (512-972- 5003) to request service or for additional information. For more information on the College Student Commission, please contact Dr. Chiquita Eugene at (512-972-5003).
COLLEGE STUDENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 12, DECEMBER, 2025 The College Student Commission convened in a regular meeting on 12, December, 2025 at 301 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701 in Austin, Texas. Chair Lyon called the College Student Commission Meeting to order at 3:17 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Andrw Lyon, Aidan Cournoyer Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely:, Caleb Brizuela, Camila Colin, Carson Domey, Elisha Mac Gregor, Aidan Ogle, Kritika Ramesh PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. The motion to approve the minutes of the COLLEGE STUDENT COMMISSION SPECIAL CALL MEETING on NOVEMBER 25th , 2025, was approved on Commissioner Cournoyer’s motion, Commissioner Mac Gregor’s second on a 8-0 vote. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding rental housing fee transparency was given by Chase Bryan, Austin Housing. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Discussion on potential future presentations by Austin Planning and CapMetro— presentations were requested. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 4. Update from TRANSPORTATION working group on their priorities. Update by Chair Lyon. Update from MENTAL HEALTH working group on their priorities. Update from Chair Lyon. Update from HOUSING working group on their priorities. Update from Chair Lyon. 5. 6. 1 WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 7. None FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 8. None Chair Lyon adjourned the meeting at 4:10 p.m. without objection. The minutes were approved at the December 12, 2025, meeting on Commissioner Cournoyer motion, Commissioner Mac Gregor’s second on a 8-0 vote. 2
Central Texas Food Bank Update College Student Commission Meeting January 9, 2026 CTFB | About Central Texas Food Bank Who We Are • We are the largest hunger-relief organization in Central Texas and only member food bank of Feeding Texas and Feeding America in the area. • Founded in 1981, CTFB provides food and grocery products through a network of nearly 250 nonprofit community partners and direct- service programs, serving about 93,000 people every week. • Headquartered in Austin, CTFB serves 21 counties in Central Texas. CTFB | College Student Commission 01.09.26 Food Insecurity Trends Central Texas Food Insecurity Trends 800,000 18.2% 16.4% 600,000 n o l i t a u p o P d n a s e t a R y t i r u c e s n I d o o F 19.0% 18.0% 17.0% 16.0% 15.0% 14.0% 13.0% 12.0% 11.0% 10.0% 14.0% 14.3% 437,158 458,497 612,472 537,696 400,000 200,000 0 2022 Food Insecure Population 437,158 Food Insecurity Rate 14.0% 2023 458,497 14.3% 2024 537,696 16.4% 2025 612,472 18.2% CTFB | About Central Texas Food Bank Our Programmatic Approach We believe every Central Texan should have equitable access to nutritious food. This can be done one of two ways: • Provide immediate access to nutritious food. • Provide the resources necessary for all Central Texans to access food on their own. CTFB | Our Programs + Services At-a-Glance Families Home Delivery Mobile Pantries 250+ Partner Agencies Children Afterschool + Summer Meals School + College Pantries Older Adults Monthly Food Boxes Health + Wellness Nutrition + Garden Education Food Prescriptions Pantries Empowerment Workforce Training State Benefits Assistance Employment Resources Program Overview CTFB | College Student Commission 01.09.26 College Food Access Program The College Food Access Program was developed by Central Texas Food Bank (CTFB) to address food insecurity among college students across our 21-county service area. CTFB has scaled this program to 13 campuses across four counties. Through strong campus partnerships and student-led initiatives, the program provides targeted equipment support, food resources, technical assistance, and mentorship to establish and sustain low-barrier, stigma-free food access on college campuses. CTFB | College Student Commission 01.09.26 College Food Access Program in Austin/Travis County CTFB partners with five colleges/universities here in Travis County to deliver equitable, sustainable hunger-relief services tailored to each campus’s needs • Austin Community College (East View, Highland and Riverside) • Concordia University • • University of Texas …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AUSTIN TRAVIS COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7th, 2026, AT 2:30 P.M. CITY HALL, BOARD & COMMISSION ROOM, ROOM 1101 301 W. 2nd STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the [Commission Name] 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 remotely, contact Daniela Romero, participation by daniela.romero@austintexas.gov or Juanita Jackson at Juanita.jackson@austintexas.gov. telephone. To to speak register CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS OR COMMISSIONERS: Natalie Poindexter, Chair Enrique Lin Shiao, Vice Chair Jawad Ali Chris Crookham Cara Dahlhausen Jacob Whitty Martha Lujan William Rice Larry Wallace, Jr. EX-OFFICIO BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Adrienne Sturrup, Director, Austin Public Health Dr. Desmar Walkes, Austin/Travis County Public Health Authority Ana Almaguel, Division Director, Travis County Health & Human Services Perla Cavazos, Deputy Administrator, Central Health AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 5 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Public Health Commission Regular Meeting on November 5th, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. Receive updates from commissioners on assigned action items. Discuss revised Harm Reduction Outreach Expansion recommendation. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. 5. Discuss and approve goals for the 2026 fiscal year. Discuss and approve the 2026 annual schedule of the Public Health Commission. 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 contact Daniela Romero at Austin Public Health, at daniela.romero@austintexas.gov, or Juanita Jackson at Juanita.jackson@austintexas.gov to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Public Health Commission, please contact Daniela Romero at daniela.romero@austintexas.gov or Juanita Jackson at Juanita.jackson@austintexas.gov.
PUBLIC HEALTH COMMISSION Running List of Topics Agenda Topics Sponsors Develop recommendation for budget submission Discussion on federal funding cuts and their effects on local public health initiatives *APH* Commission Consensus Commission Consensus Date Topic was Proposed 12/5/2024 6/4/2025 Cap and Stitch discussion and recommendation for resource allocation Receive a presentation from Austin or Travis County Jail System/APD to discuss behavioral health and Criminal Justice System. Crookham 6/4/2025 Commission Consensus - - Bring back Farmshare for presentation on Poindexter food access/insecurity Invite councilwoman Fuentez to provide input & guidance Rice 4/2/2025 Presentation by Austin Metro re: bus routes Lujan 12/5/2024 and access to care Last Updated: 1/5/2026 Proposed Agenda Date Confirmed - Sept. – specific from CH & DSHS - - - - - Cont. Cont. - - - - - Priority Order 1 2 Priority Items Individual Research: Commissioners will review independently and prepare to discuss further during set agenda days (if applicable) Independently review Travis County Forensic Mental Health Project Report March 2023 Look at Los Angeles, Boston and other Public Health Commissions forums and forms of public meetings Sponsors Date Completed Commission Consensus Commission Consensus Cont. Cont. Completed Agenda Topics Sponsors Receive briefing from agencies on their organizational structure. Budget, Contract, and funding mechanism Programs/services provided related to transgender healthcare Commission Consensus and gender affirming care Scope of services/program provided by Travis County and Austin Public Health including o mental health, o depression on chronic diseases o housing o healthcare, o respect to end-of-life care (hospice) Agenda Date Travis County - 7/12/2023 APH - 8/9/2023 CH – 10/4/2023 o equity/community violence and safety Program/services related to opioid crisis in Travis County Receive a presentation on the Sobering Center Central Health and Sendero long organizational structure - The CH presentation should include its whole organization (Community Care, community collaborative, MAP, committees, etc.) Presentation on the CHA/CHIP Briefing on Central Health 2022 Community Health Assessment (aka 2022 Demographic Report) Follow-up presentation on Opioid Settlement Funds coordinating presentation with Central Health, Travis County and APH - Discuss presentation on opioids given to the Travis County Commissioners Wallace 9/6/2023 Commission Consensus 10/4/2023 Commission Consensus Commission Consensus Commission Consensus 2/7/2024 1/3/2024 8/7/2024 2/7/2024 What is the relationship with other joint Commission? Equity Office to extend membership for PHC to join. - Joint …
AUSTIN TRAVIS COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH COMMISSION Wednesday, November 5th, 2025 AUSTIN TRAVIS COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, November 5th, 2025 The Austin Travis County Public Health Commission convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, November 5th, 2025, at 301 West 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Natalie Poindexter called the Austin Travis County Public Health Commission Meeting to order at 2:35 pm. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Natalie Poindexter, Chair Cara Dahlhausen Enrique Lin Shiao, Vice Chair William Rice Chris Crookham Martha Lujan Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: None Board Members/Commissioners Absent: Jacob Whitty Larry Wallace, Jr Ex-Officio and Staff in Attendance: Dr. Desmar Walkes, Austin/Travis County Public Health Authority Ana Almaguel, Division Director, Travis County Health & Human Services Alicia Ramirez, Government Affairs Manager, Central Health Daniela Romero, Staff, Austin Public Health Juanita Jackson, Staff, Austin Public Health Ex-Officio and Staff in Attendance Remotely: Adrienne Sturrup Ex-Officio and Staff Absent: Megan Cermak Perla Cavazos PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Austin Travis County Public Health Commission regular meeting on November 5th, 2025. The minutes for the regular meeting of October 1st, 2025, were approved on Commissioner William Rice’s motion, Commissioner Chris Crookham second on a 6-0 vote. (Absent: Commissioner Jacob Whitty & Commissioner Larry Wallace, Jr.) DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Introduction of Austin Travis County Community Health Assessment & Improvement Plan (CHA/CHIP) partners by Kodjo Dodo, Program Manager, with Austin Public Health. Presentation by Kelli Lovelace, Community Benefit Director with Ascension Seton, on their contribution to the Community Health & Needs Assessment Report. Presentation by Nichole Edmonds, MPH, Vice President of Community Service Department and Olivia Stelter, Central TX Coordinator, Community Investment with Baylor Scott & White Health on their contribution to the Community Health & Needs Assessment Report. Presentation by Jesse Simmons, MS, Senior Evaluation Officer with St. David’s Foundation on their contribution to the Community Health & Needs Assessment Report. Presentation by Beth Corbett, Vice President of Government Affairs, and Emily Foxman, Research Manager with Central Texas Food Bank on their contribution to the Community Health & Needs Assessment Report. Presentation by Shirley Aldana, Business Process Specialist with Austin Public Health on their contribution to the Community Health & Needs Assessment Report. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 8. 9. 10. Prepare for working retreat in December 2025. Discuss harm reduction recommendation. Revisit community health worker recommendation. …
. . RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Austin Travis County Public Health Commission Recommendation Number: [YYYYMMDD-XXX] Harm Reduction Outreach Expansion: This recommendation seeks to prevent overdoses in the Austin, Travis County area through outreach programs and peer support specialists that provide life-saving services directly to high- risk populations using awarded opioid abatement funds. This recommendation directly addresses priorities identified by Travis County Health and Human Services and community members including outreach, peer support capacity, and reducing the stigma surrounding substance use disorders. NOTE: The “WHEREAS” should give the background and the “NOW, THEREFORE,” should state what the Board or Commission is requesting Council to do. WHEREAS Travis County declared opioid overdoses as a public health crisis in 2022 and extended the declaration in 2024 to stay in effect until October 1, 2026. WHEREAS The City of Austin has declared a need for increased efforts to address the opioid overdose crisis in RESOLUTION NO. 20220616-053. WHEREAS Travis County recorded more than 400 accidental drug-related deaths in 2023. In 2024, Austin-Travis County reported 1,058 EMS calls and dispatches and 831 emergency department visits due to drug overdoses, highlighting the current crisis. WHEREAS Travis County has received three opioid abatement fund disbursements over the course of the next 15 years aiming to prevent, treat, or reduce overdoses and opioid use. WHEREAS an increased capacity for community outreach was identified and presented as a priority in 2024, facilitated by Travis County Health and Human Services, in collaboration with Austin-Travis County community providers WHEREAS harm reduction outreach efforts focused on opioid overdose prevention help expand access to life-saving interventions such as naloxone distribution and training, connection to community services and peer support, especially among high-risk populations such as unhoused individuals, who may face significant barriers to care due to stigma, social determinants of health, and other challenges. WHEREAS peer recovery support services is the best practice associated with improved health outcomes, increased likelihood to engage in recovery services, and reduction in stigma around substance use. . NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Austin Travis County Public Health Commission recommends that Travis County Health and Human Services: 1. Invest opioid abatement funds for organizations that provide Harm Reduction to expand outreach programs in Travis County. 2. Renew and increase existing opioid abatement–funded harm reduction contracts totaling $525,000 that expire September 30, 2026, and allocate additional funds to create new contracts so organizations can hire staff and expand …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER ADVISORY BOARD WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 301 W. 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center 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, contact Michelle Rojas, 512-974-3771, Michelle.Rojas@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Angelica Navarro (D-8), Chair Hilario “Larry” Amaro (D-10), Member Anthony Martinez (D-4), Member Noemi Castro (D-2), Member Lynda Quintana (D-6), Member Alexander “Al” Duarte (D-7), Member Raul “Roy” Reyna (D-1), Member John Estrada (D-3), Member Selma Sanchez (D-9), Member Cynthia “Cy” Herrera (D-5), Member Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz (Mayor), Vice Chair 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 Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center regular meeting of November 5, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on November, December, and January programs, marketing and outreach efforts, and updates on signature event planning. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Olivia Tamzarian, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Marketing & Outreach Representative, Austin Arts Culture, Music and Entertainment & Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager, Austin Arts Culture, Music and Entertainment DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. Update on Phase 2 Construction Project. (Sponsors: Quintana, Sanchez) Presenter(s): Heidi Tse, Capital Delivery Project Manager, Austin Capital Delivery Services Community update outlining the history of the Latino arts community and City of Austin funding programs. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Morgan Messick, Economic Development, Assistant Director, Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment & Laura Odegaard, Program Manager III, Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment Presentation by community members on their experience with Cultural Arts funding. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Luis Ordaz, Hector Ordaz of Proyecto Teatro, Raquel Rivera of SUREM Dance, and Guicha Gutierrez of CasaCostura Presentation by past participants on their experience with the ESB MACC Latino Arts Residency Program. …
ESB-MACC ADVISORY BOARD MEETING MINUTES NOVEMBER 5, 2025 EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER REGULAR MEETING MINUTES NOVEMBER 5, 2025 The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center convened in a Regular Meeting on November 5, 2025, at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. (Some members of the ESB-MACC Advisory Board participated via videoconference.) Chair Navarro called the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Meeting to order at 6:10 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Angelica Navarro, Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Alexander “Al” Duarte, Lynda Quintana, Selma Sanchez. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz (left at 7:40 p.m.), Raul “Roy” Reyna. Board Members Absent: Noemi Castro, John Estrada, Cynthia “Cy” Herrera, Anthony Martinez. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Speaker 1: Emilio Zamora, Ph.D., Co-founder, Academia Cuauhtli and University of Texas Professor addressed the Board to provide an update on Academia Cuauhtli’s ongoing activities and noted their intention to report to the Board every three to four months. He provided information on a proposed historical exhibition of the MACC, stating the exhibition would cover the history from the 1970s to the present. He indicated that the written narrative for the exhibition was halfway complete, and they were actively seeking funding to support the project. Dr. Zamora added that the plan would be to present the exhibition following the facility’s reopening. Speaker 2: Gonzalo Barrientos, Former State Senator made a statement to the Board, explaining that he frequently receives inquiries from community members regarding events such as quinceañeras and other celebrations. He stated that he informs callers that the facility is operated by the City of Austin and governed by the MACC Board, clarifying that the center is simply named in honor of his late wife. He offered suggestions regarding oversight of the MACC, emphasizing the roles of governing bodies, staff, and the use of public funds. He expressed his hope that the questions he commonly receives could be answered through clear communication of departmental responsibilities, programs, projects, and future plans. Mr. Barrientos added that he would be willing to return to the Board if they wished to discuss any specific questions further. Speaker 3: Anna Maciel, Former MACC Advisory Board Member spoke to the Board regarding Pan Am Hillside. She expressed her support for the MACC hosting events at the hillside, provided certain conditions were met. Ms. Maciel stressed the importance of unified communication and collaboration among all parties. She …
EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER Phase 2 Improvements MACC Advisor y Board Update Heidi Tse Capital Delivery Project Manager January 7, 2026 • Parking : Overflow parking sod installed. Exterior (left) : Concrete is being cleaned in preparation for new seal coat. Exterior (right): Existing stair has been repainted • Auditorium: Control Booth has been painted • Interiors: Pin boards installed in classrooms and meeting rooms. South Addition: Storefront Water test in progress. Reception: Curved window with temporary Plexi-glass installation in progress . Auditorium: Theatrical curtains installed. Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) grants temporary, conditional use of a building for stocking or furnishing before all construction work is fully completed. MACC full building TCO for Stocking as of 11/12/2025 Certificate of Occupancy (CO) that proves a structure is habitable based on its legal use and type of property and meets all building codes. Targeted for Spring 2026 TCO vs CO Estimated Completion The Re-opening may occur sometime between the project’s substantial completion and final completion. Substantial Completion (contractual term) is when the facility is deemed ready to be occupied by the owner, but other minor work still needs to be completed by the contractor. The exact date or alignment of the Re-opening will not be known until construction has significantly progressed. Must achieve TCO at a minimum. The anticipated project completion timeline is: 1. Target Substantial Completion: 11/03/25 11/19/25 12/2025 – 2/2026 2. Target Re-opening Spring 2026 Substantial Completion (Contract Promised Date 9/11/25) : 1. Create Punchlist of work to be remediated • Begin generating official Punchlist with each design discipline for conformity of design intent from December 2025 - January 2026 2. Provide Training for MACC staff on building systems. • Begin December 2025 - January 2026 December 12, 2025 No. of Items recorded: 1,094 January 2, 2026 No. of Items recorded: 2,335 Project Milestones Updates • Ceremonial Groundbreaking: December 10, 2022 • GMP 1 (Site Work) Notice to Proceed issued: August 28, 2023 • GMP 2 (Building / Landscape) Notice to Proceed issued: March 7, 2024 • Steel “Topping Out”: September 11, 2024 • Target Major Construction Ends: February 2025 • Target Stocking: Late February 2026 • Target Staff Move-In: March 2026 • Target Grand Re-Opening: Spring 2026 Emergency Project Square Foot Analysis Questions ?
Look Back at 2025 with the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center As we close out the year, we want to take a moment to share some of our highlights of 2025. Thank you to our MACC community and our collaborative partners! Because of you, we expanded our programming reach to new locations and new audiences! A special thanks goes out to those organizations that hosted our MACC programming in 2025. Thanks to the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center, Asian American Resource Center, Dougherty Arts Center! We thank the Parque Zaragoza, Pan Am, and Dove Springs Recreation Centers, our Senior Centers, our Austin Public Libraries and other city sites for hosting us! In 2025 we accomplished quite a lot of firsts! Our Caminos teens created incredible murals in the Pocket Park outside the MACC that tell visitors about the rich cultural history of Mexican Americans in Austin. We explored new places to host our programs. For the first time ever, we held our La Mujer event at the historic Parque Zaragoza Rec Center. We also held our Teen conference at the AARC which allowed us to expand the event to incorporate a dynamite workshop from SaulPaul and to reach even more teens. We collaborated with the annual Grito de la Independencia at Republic Square park and with the Fiesta Reclamada event in May, produced by A3 Art Alliance Austin. In August we collaborated with the Mexican Consulate on a film screening of Pedro Paramo at the Carver. Our collaborations made this possible. Our Education Programs included Spring Break and Summer Camps, afterschool programs, and Breaking Barriers Teen Conference, hosted for the first time at the Asian American Resource Center. We reached a younger audience with Morning Glories in collaboration with Waterloo Greenway. We collaborated with the Dove Springs Community Library for their Noche de Fiesta nights in September and December. Holistic Wellness/ Casa de la Cultura programs provided a wide variety of workshops and classes, including the Day of Wellness at Sunset Community Garden, and Sabados en Familia with Waterloo Greenway. We offered workshops on will writing and, homebuying! We stayed fit with bilingual wellness classes that included self-defense workshops, salsa, bachata, cumbia dance classes, kayaking, swimming, drumming, guitar, and yoga workshops! And we connected with Austinseniors through Cine de Oro and painting classes. Our signature events and annual collaborations kept going strong! We were honored to …
MACC Advisory Board Staff Report January 7, 2026 Casa de la Cultura will offer accessible and inclusive family classes and workshops rooted in preserving Mexican American, Indigenous, and Latino culture and traditions. Each pillar within Casa de la Cultura program will support the presentation of local artists, instructors, and educators. We aim to promote a lifelong curiosity for creating art and the expression of identity. -friendly La Cocina will offer family -friendly culinary workshops and demonstrations. Participants will explore traditional cooking techniques, diverse Latin American flavors, and promote healthy eating practices while preserving authenticity. • La Tamalada/ Tortilla -making Workshops • Cooking Demos • Nutrition classes Tamalada December 6 , 2026 - w/Tamale Addiction Conley Guerreo Senior Center 50 participants Community Partners: Tejano Genealogy Society of Austin Sana Yoga Herbal Action Project Artes Culturales creativity through diverse mediums and styles. Each session encourages artistic expression while highlighting cultural heritage and innovation. hosts art classes that invite participants to explore • Ceramics • Textiles • Cartoneria Danza celebrates rhythm, movement, and the joy of expression. From traditional forms to modern beats, youth and adults alike will connect with culture through motion, music, and dance. • Ballet Folklórico Classes • Social Dance – Cumbia Norteña • Latin folk dance Cine celebrates the art of film through screenings, artist talks, and hands workshops. The program highlights Latin filmmakers, documentaries, and creative storytelling while offering opportunities to learn about filmmaking techniques. -on • Film Screenings • Make -up Workshops • Costume Design Jardín invites participants to get their hands in the soil and connect with the earth. Through volunteer opportunities and educational workshops, the program fosters sustainability, herbal knowledge, and community well -being • Garden Volunteer Workdays • Herbalism and Botanical Classes • Native Plant and Gardening Workshops Música celebrates the vibrant sounds of Latin America through hands music education and creative collaboration. Participants will explore rhythm, melody, and storytelling while building skills in performance. -on • Music Instructional Classes – MACC Conjunto/Mariachi • Songwriting Literatura honors the written word as a powerful expression of identity, memory, and imagination. Participants will engage with culturally relevant works and create their own through reading and writing workshops. • Book Clubs • Storytelling • Poetry Movement promotes physical wellness and self forms of movement. These programs invite participants to reconnect with their bodies, nature, and community via a cultural lens. -expression through diverse • Mindful Movement • …
EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER Phase 2 Improvements MACC Advisor y Board Update Heidi Tse Capital Delivery Project Manager January 7, 2026 • Parking : Overflow parking sod installed. Exterior (left) : Concrete is being cleaned in preparation for new seal coat. Exterior (right): Existing stair has been repainted • Auditorium: Control Booth has been painted • Interiors: Pin boards installed in classrooms and meeting rooms. South Addition: Storefront Water test in progress. Reception: Curved window with temporary Plexi-glass installation in progress . Auditorium: Theatrical curtains installed. Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) grants temporary, conditional use of a building for stocking or furnishing before all construction work is fully completed. MACC full building TCO for Stocking as of 11/12/2025 Certificate of Occupancy (CO) that proves a structure is habitable based on its legal use and type of property and meets all building codes. Targeted for Spring 2026 TCO vs CO Estimated Completion The Re-opening may occur sometime between the project’s substantial completion and final completion. Substantial Completion (contractual term) is when the facility is deemed ready to be occupied by the owner, but other minor work still needs to be completed by the contractor. The exact date or alignment of the Re-opening will not be known until construction has significantly progressed. Must achieve TCO at a minimum. The anticipated project completion timeline is: 1. Target Substantial Completion: 11/03/25 11/19/25 12/2025 – 2/2026 2. Target Re-opening Spring 2026 Substantial Completion (Contract Promised Date 9/11/25) : 1. Create Punchlist of work to be remediated • Begin generating official Punchlist with each design discipline for conformity of design intent from December 2025 - January 2026 2. Provide Training for MACC staff on building systems. • Begin December 2025 - January 2026 December 12, 2025 No. of Items recorded: 1,094 January 2, 2026 No. of Items recorded: 2,335 Project Milestones Updates • Ceremonial Groundbreaking: December 10, 2022 • GMP 1 (Site Work) Notice to Proceed issued: August 28, 2023 • GMP 2 (Building / Landscape) Notice to Proceed issued: March 7, 2024 • Steel “Topping Out”: September 11, 2024 • Target Major Construction Ends: February 2025 • Target Stocking: Late February 2026 • Target Staff Move-In: March 2026 • Target Grand Re-Opening: Spring 2026 Emergency Project Square Foot Analysis Questions ?
Funding Programs Update Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment | January 7, 2026 History of Cultural Funding in Austin ▪ Since 1981: Funded through Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) authorized by state law ▪ Impact: Over $125M invested in 870+ artists and arts organizations ▪ 2019 Snapshot: 5 staff managed 600 contracts in one year ▪ Transparency: Explore all HOT Cultural Funding recipients on the City’s Open Data Portal ▪ 2003: Cultural Funding moved from Parks & Recreation to Economic Development Department ▪ 2013–Present: Arts Commission collaborates with staff to update and approve program guidelines ▪ 2019: Austin Live Music Fund Established through Ordinance No 20190919-149 2 Impetus to Revise Funding Guidelines 2017: Cultural Funding Program Responsiveness Working Group 2018: Funding cuts for the first time (11%) COA Equity Statement: Strategic Direction 2023 Problem: Address 50 years of inequitable funding distribution. 3 Concerns of Inequitable Distribution* *Data shows leadership/staff demographics FY15-FY 21 only. We recognize this is only one indicator. 4 Cultural Funding Review Process 5 Creative Sector Pandemic Relief 2020-2022 $23,042,284 Funded 6 Cultural Funding Review Process Report ▪ June 29, 2022 – Arts Commission Approved Pilot Program Guidelines ▪ Summer 2022 QOL Commissions and Council briefed https://www.austintexas.gov/department/cultural-funding 7 Holistic Funding Ecosystem Nexus Nurture new and emerging applicants by funding creative public projects developed through community activation and/or collaboration. Elevate Creative and administrative expenses of cultural producers that amplify equity and prioritize inclusive programming. Thrive Focused investment to sustain and grow arts organizations that are deeply rooted in, and reflective of Austin’s diverse cultures. 8 Pilot Program Investment Outcomes Grantee Investment by Demographics FY2015 - 2021 Grantee Investment by Demographics FY 2023 - 2024 9 Constant Change! • Established February 24, 2025 • AACME focuses on sustaining and growing Austin's creative sector • AACME acts as a central hub for City's cultural ecosystem and provides resources (funding, institutional support, special permits, access to cultural spaces). The Creative Reset: Phase I 12 The Creative Reset - https://publicinput.com/a88770 Spring-Summer 2025 Community Engagement Phase 1 Goal: to improve funding programs 11,801 Comments Updated AACME Funding Programs Guidelines 13 Funding Programs: Guidelines ▪ Clearer definitions ▪ Clearer criteria ▪ Simplified processes ▪ More accessible resources across all programs ▪ Learn More: austintexas.gov/acme/grants-funding English Guidelines Spanish Guidelines 14 AACME Enhancements ▪ Unified Structure: All funding programs consolidated into one division ▪ Stronger Connections: Cultural Centers & staff better integrated with Funding team ▪ Community Engagement: ▪ …
