Arts Commission FY 24-25 Approved Budget Recommendations ● $548K for Cultural Arts Division staff and admin fees from General Fund, alleviating this expense from the limited Hotel Occupancy Tax reserved for CAD funding. $548,000 / City of Austin General Fund ● Fiscal support for Service Organizations to be issued $500,000 / City of Austin General Fund ● Fiscal support for Community Navigators in order to better support applicants during the cultural funding program application process, in particular for translation service providers. $1 Million / City of Austin General Fund ● Fiscal support to continue the Austin Civilian Conservation Core program. $1 Million / City of Austin General Fund ● Funding* to support the Austin Economic Development Corporation to continue implementing the Cultural Trust program, especially with Common Area Maintenance and other associated costs borne by operators who would be managing spaces for community use *Economic Development Department has provided funding to the extent feasible within their Department budget but cannot continue to contribute funding (see memo attached), so any funding for AEDC would need to be identified through another City source. (Amount?) Items from the Music Budget Requests to consider including: ● Fiscal support for the Creative Space Assistance Program – match FY23-34 funding lever. CSAP awards between $5,000 and $50,000 to commercial creative spaces facing displacement or new leases at higher and unaffordable rates. Grant funds may be used for revenue-generating space improvements, partial lease payments, and gap financing for creative space purchases. $1.5 Million/ City General Fund
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: (20250324-004): Budget Proposal for Enhanced Climate Resilience in Austin Motioned by: Vice Chair Zeidan Seconded by: Commissioner Kirsh Pozen WHEREAS, The Human Rights Commission recognizes that access to clean air, water, and a stable climate is a fundamental human right, and Austin is experiencing increasingly severe climate impacts. In 2024, the city recorded the highest number of 100°F+ days in its history. WHEREAS, These extreme weather events, including destructive flooding, prolonged drought, and dangerous heat waves, affect disproportionately vulnerable communities. Austin's most vulnerable populations are largely concentrated on the east side, a result of early 20th-century segregation policies and the legacy of discriminatory practices. These communities are more likely to experience adverse outcomes due to socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, and age, making them more susceptible to climate-related disasters. WHEREAS, Austin has committed to climate neutrality by 2040 through the Austin Climate Equity Plan, yet current funding levels are insufficient to meet this goal, and environmental injustice—the disproportionate exposure of marginalized communities, particularly low-income communities and communities of color, to environmental hazards, along with their systemic exclusion from environmental decision-making—further exacerbates these challenges; and the 2023 Annual Highlights report from the Office of Sustainability notes that the city surpassed $1 million in funds provided to Austin-area schools through the Bright Green Future Grants program, supporting 555 projects since 2012; however, more substantial investments are needed to accelerate progress toward climate neutrality. WHEREAS, Austin Energy's transition to renewable energy currently stands at 43% of its energy portfolio, falling short of the interim goal of 65% renewable energy by 2025. The 2020 generation plan indicates an aim to achieve 375 MW of local solar by the end of 2030, with 200 MW targeted for customer-sited installations. To meet these targets, increased investment in renewable energy infrastructure is essential. WHEREAS, Extreme weather events have exposed vulnerabilities in Austin's infrastructure. The Central Texas Extreme Weather and Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment highlights that future climate scenarios predict increased heavy rain events and severe droughts, potentially shifting Austin's climate to resemble the arid Southwest. This underscores the urgent need for investments in climate resilience and energy independence. WHEREAS, Rising temperatures and extended heat waves pose significant public health risks. Data indicates that 32.3% of residents reported five or more poor mental health days in 2021, up from 17% in 2011, highlighting the mental health challenges exacerbated by climate stressors. The …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: (20250324-005): Budget Proposal for Increased Emergency Housing Assistance Motioned by: Commissioner Krueger Seconded by: Commissioner Clemmons WHEREAS, the City of Austin is facing a housing affordability crisis as data reports show that the overall median rent is now $1,995.00, with the median rent for a one bedroom at $1,387.00 which is 6.4% more expensive than the national average. WHEREAS, even though median rent has fallen in the past year, rental prices are still unsustainable; especially given that the cost of living for Austinites has continued to increase due to national trends such as soaring healthcare costs, grocery bills, and child and dependent care. WHEREAS, Eviction filings in Austin JP Courts reached a record high of 13,210 filings in a single year in 2024, an increase of 26% from 2023, and the State Legislature is currently advancing a bill to weaken what little rights tenants already possess in the state of Texas. WHEREAS, per the Eviction Lab at Princeton University, eviction filings in Austin have soared to over 50% higher than the pre-pandemic average rate, with communities of color drastically more at risk of eviction in a state with some of the country’s weakest protections for renters. WHEREAS, a record 2.1 million renters, more than half of the state’s renter households, are “cost burdened,” meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on rent and utilities per a recent Harvard University study. WHEREAS, the State of Texas shuttered its statewide rent relief program in the summer of 2023 leaving it up to municipalities to act on the growing rental crisis. Austin has stepped up to the plate, most recently in last year’s budget cycle with a $8 million rental assistance and eviction support program through the City of Austin Housing Department’s “I Belong in Austin” program. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Human Rights Commission encourages the Austin City Council to allocate at least another $8 million dollars in rental relief funds and explore all available means in order to create short-, medium-, and long-term solutions for individuals at risk of eviction in Austin. Date of Approval: March 24, 2025 Record of the vote: Approved on an 8-0 vote. For: Chair Duhon, Vice Chair Zeidan, Commissioners Aslam, Clemmons, Kirsh Pozen, Krueger, Khawar, Oliva Martínez. Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Commissioners Bryant, Davis, and Weigel Attest: _____________________________________________ (Human Rights Commission Staff Liaison)
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: (20250324-006): Budget Recommendation Providing Funding for Community Dialogues in the City of Austin Motioned by: Commissioner Clemmons Seconded by: Commissioner Duhon WHEREAS, the City Charter outlines that the Austin Human Rights Commission shall “initiate and facilitate discussions and negotiations between individuals and groups to lessen tensions and improve understanding in the community”; and, WHEREAS, the City Charter also outlines that the Austin Human Rights Commission shall, “institute and conduct educational programs to promote equal treatment, opportunity and understanding”; and, WHEREAS, the City Charter further outlines that the Austin Human Rights Commission shall “sponsor meetings, institutes, forums, and courses of instruction to lead to a clearer understanding and solution of human relations problems”; and, WHEREAS, pursuant to the City Charter, the Human Rights Commission formed a working group, the Intergroup Relations Working Group, for these purposes on January 27, 2025; and, WHEREAS, the working group shall propose that a series of up to 8 community dialogue sessions which will provide training, resources, and opportunities to bridge divides around topics related to immigration- based and other kinds of discrimination; and, WHEREAS, these dialogues have the potential to incur costs related to venue, travel, supplies, snacks, printing, and other preparatory materials. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Human Rights Commission encourages the Austin City Council to allocate $7,500 from the FY25 budget to aid in hosting up to 8 community dialogue sessions that promote greater understanding among members of our community who face discrimination related to immigration and other marginalized identities. Date of Approval: March 24, 2025 Record of the vote: Approved on an 8-0 vote. For: Chair Duhon, Vice Chair Zeidan, Commissioners Aslam, Clemmons, Kirsh Pozen, Krueger, Khawar, Oliva Martínez Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Commissioners Bryant, Davis, Weigel Attest: _____________________________________________ (Human Rights Commission Staff Liaison)
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: (20250324-007): Budget Recommendation Providing Funding for Printing and Distribution of "Know Your Rights" Red Cards at Austin Public Library Sites Motioned by: Comimssioner Oliva Martinez Seconded by: Chair Duhon WHEREAS, the City Charter outlines that the Austin Human Rights Commission shall “initiate and facilitate discussions and negotiations between individuals and groups to lessen tensions and improve understanding in the community”; and, WHEREAS, the City Charter also outlines that the Austin Human Rights Commission shall “institute and conduct educational programs treatment, opportunity and understanding”; and, to promote equal WHEREAS, public libraries serve as trusted and accessible community spaces where residents can receive critical information about their rights, particularly those related to immigration, law enforcement interactions, and workplace protections; and, WHEREAS, organizations such as the Immigrant Legal Resource Center and other advocacy groups have developed "Know Your Rights" red cards to help individuals understand their constitutional rights in various situations, including interactions with law enforcement and immigration officials; and, WHEREAS, ensuring that all Austin Public Library locations have printed "Know Your Rights" red cards available in multiple languages will empower community members with important legal information and contribute to greater public awareness and safety; and, WHEREAS, the costs associated with printing and distributing these materials include design, translation, printing, and distribution across all Austin Public Library branches. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Human Rights Commission encourages the Austin City Council to allocate up to $10,000 from the FY25-26 budget to the Austin Public Library for the printing and distribution of "Know Your Rights" red cards at all library locations, ensuring that critical legal information is accessible to all community members. Date of Approval: March 24, 2025 Record of the vote: Approved on an 8-0 vote. For: Chair Duhon, Vice Chair Zeidan, Commissioners Aslam, Clemmons, Kirsh Pozen, Krueger, Khawar, Oliva Martínez Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Commissioners Bryant, Davis, Weigel Attest: _____________________________________________ (Human Rights Commission Staff Liaison)
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: (20250324-008): Budget Proposal for a High School to Technical/Trade School to City Workforce Pipeline Program Motioned by: Chair Duhon Seconded by: Vice Chair Zeidan WHEREAS, The City of Austin has implemented programs like the Austin Youth Development (AYD) Program, which provides youth development services focusing on personal development and employability skills for youth aged 17-22, including educational and developmental activities within a year-long City work experience. WHEREAS, The Economic Development Department’s Workforce Development Program manages multiple, multiyear service delivery contracts with local nonprofit organizations to provide free or low-cost workforce training to individuals pursuing self-sustaining employment. WHEREAS, The Austin Chamber of Commerce supports funding for student success and programs that enhance workforce training, including a high school internship program with Austin ISD. WHEREAS, This initiative directly supports the mission of the Austin Human Rights Commission by promoting equal employment opportunities and reducing systemic barriers to workforce access for historically marginalized communities. WHEREAS, Despite these initiatives, there remains a need for a structured pipeline that directly connects high school students to technical/trade schools and subsequently to employment within City of Austin departments, addressing both workforce needs and providing clear career paths for students. WHEREAS, Other cities have successfully implemented similar programs. For instance: ● Philadelphia introduced a program that gives job priority to students in trade schools, leading to successful hires within city departments. ● New Orleans established the New Orleans Career Center (NOCC), offering career and technical education to high school students, providing training and certifications in fields such as building trades, culinary arts, digital media, and healthcare. ● Chicago’s City Colleges launched the College to Careers program, partnering with industry leaders to align curricula with workforce needs, effectively creating a pipeline from education to employment in high-demand sectors. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: The Human Rights Commission of the City of Austin recommends that the City Council allocate $2.5 million to establish a High School to Technical/Trade School to City Workforce Pipeline Program to: 1. Create Paid Apprenticeships & Pre-Apprenticeship Programs – $1,000,000 a. Establish paid internships and apprenticeships within city departments for high school juniors and seniors interested in skilled trades. b. Provide summer pre-apprenticeship programs for students exploring public works, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, cybersecurity, transportation, emergency services, and other high-demand fields. c. Offer stipends and tuition assistance for students enrolling in trade schools and certification programs at Austin Community College …
AUSTIN CONVENTION CENTER REDEVELOPMENT DESIGN COMMISSION PRESENTATION SPO-2025-001BC MARCH 24, 2025 PROJECT SCOPE LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 BY THE NUMBERS CONSTRUCTION COST $1.26B RENTABLE SPACE AREAS EXISTING CONVENTION CENTER 365,000 SF NEW CONVENTION CENTER INDOOR + OUTDOOR 550,000 + 70,000 SF FUTURE EXPANSION 140,000 SF LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 PROJECT GOALS LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 AUSTIN CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 20210610-096 The City Council seeks to work with the prime architecture firm capable of delivering a world class design befitting a city of Austin’s size and prominence. The Convention Center design shall incorporate the most innovative ideas in programming and placemaking and shall aim to create a civic building that draws and serves Austinites as well as visitors. The City council affirms its intention that the convention Center be, like its companion civic building to the west, the Austin Central Library, a landmark of great distinction, a bustling and vital public gathering place, and a point of pride for the community. LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 THE AUSTIN MATRIX UNIQUELY AUSTIN Slide 9 | July 24, 2024 CONFIDENTIAL DRAFT LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 ARTS + CULTURE + MUSIC + ENTERTAINMENT CITY LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 FESTIVAL CITY LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 TECH CITY LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES AREA WIDE AW.1 CREATE DENSE DEVELOPMENT AW.2 CREATE MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT AW.3 LIMIT DEVELOPMENT WHICH CLOSES DOWNTOWN STREETS N/A AW.4 BUFFER NEIGHBORHOOD EDGES AW.5 INCORPORATE CIVIC ART IN BOTH PUBLIC AND PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT AW.6 PROTECT IMPORTANT PUBLIC VIEWS AW.7 AVOID HISTORICAL MISINTERPRETATIONS AW.8 RESPECT ADJACENT HISTORIC BUILDINGS AW.9 ACKNOWLEDGE ROOFTOPS ARE SEEN FROM OTHER BUILDINGS AND STREET AW.10 AVOID THE DEVELOPMENT OF THEME ENVIRONMENTS AW.11 RECYCLE EXISTING BUILDING STOCK LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES PUBLIC STREETSCAPE PS.1 PROTECT THE PEDESTRIAN WHERE THE BUILDING MEETS THE STREET PS.2 MINIMIZE CURB CUTS PS.3 CREATE THE POTENTIAL FOR TWO-WAY STREETS PS.4 REINFORCE PEDESTRIAN ACTIVITY PS.5 ENHANCE KEY TRANSIT STOPS PS.6 ENHANCE THE STREETSCAPE PS.7 AVOID CONFLICTS BETWEEN PEDESTRIANS AND UTILITY EQUIPMENT PS.8 INSTALL STREET TREES PS.9 PROVIDE PEDESTRIAN SCALED-LIGHTING PS.10 PROVIDE PROTECTION FROM CARS/ PROMOTE CURBSIDE PARKING PS.11 SCREEN MECHANICAL AND UTILITY EQUIPMENT PS.12 PROVIDE GENEROUS STREET-LEVEL WINDOWS PS.13 INSTALL PEDESTRIAN-FRIENDLY MATERIALS AT STREET LEVEL LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES PLAZAS AND OPEN SPACE PS.1 TREAT THE FOUR SQUARES WITH …
RECONNECTING AUSTIN LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 UNPRECEDENTED OPPORTUNITIES UNPRECEDENTED OPPORTUNITIES • • • • • • • • • • • February 25, 2025 LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 RECONNECTION OF THE GRID SCALE AND POROSITY RECONNECTION OF THE GRID SCALE AND POROSITY February 25, 2025 LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 THE BLOCKS THE BLOCKS February 25, 2025 LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 INTERSECTION OF PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE INTERSECTION OF PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE February 25, 2025 LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 URBAN TO LANDSCAPE URBAN TO LANDSCAPE URBAN / LANDSCAPE February 25, 2025 Slide 17 | September 5, 2024 CONFIDENTIAL DRAFT LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 URBAN TO URBAN TO LANDSCAPE LANDSCAPE February 25, 2025 LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 INDOOR TO OUTDOOR INDOOR TO OUTDOOR INSIDE / OUTSIDE February 25, 2025 Slide 18 | September 5, 2024 CONFIDENTIAL DRAFT LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 THE NEW BLOCKS INDOOR TO OUTDOOR THE RAVINE VERTICAL CONNECTIONS EX HALL TO FLEX HALL LINKS TO NATURE AND CREEK THE PASEO ACTIVATED PROMENADE CONNECTOR URBANE AND ORDERED LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 TRIO OF LANDMARK BUILDINGS CENTRAL LIBRARY CITY HALL CONVENTION CENTER LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 ARCHITECTURALLY INTEGRATED ART LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 UNPRECEDENTED SCALE ~$17.7M TOTAL INVESTMENT Austin’s largest single investment in public art to date ARCHITECTURAL INTEGRATION 10 artists selected during Schematic Design of building for architecturally-integrated art Additional AIPP artwork will follow more traditional procurement timeline LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 SELECTED ARTISTS Aaron Michalovic Alejandra Almuelle Carmen Rangel Dave McClinton Dawn Okoro Deborah Roberts Diego Miro-Rivera Jenaro Goode Rex Hamilton Tsz Kam LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 PRELIMINARY LOCATIONS WAREHOUSE CORNER WAREHOUSE FLEX HALL PORTALS HUB WEST HUB EAST REGISTRATION PASEO SOFFIT BALLROOM SHADE CANOPY LEVEL 03 PREFUNCTION LIGHTING BALLROOM SOUTH STONE FABRICATION LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 DESIGN APPROACH LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 GROUND LEVEL PROGRAM 1 GROUND LEVEL • CONVENTION SPACES INTEGRATED WITH SURROUNDING STREETS • CENTRAL MULTISTORY LOBBY CONNECTS TO UPPER AND LOWER LEVELS • SIGNATURE TIMBER BALLROOM AND LOBBY STRUCTURE • MEETING ROOMS AND BALLROOM WITH CONNECTIONS TO OUTDOOR SPACES • MULTI FUNCTIONAL OUTDOOR EVENT SPACES February 25, 2025 LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 PROGRAM STACKED WITH VERTICAL CONNECTIONS STACKED …
URBAN RENEWAL BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20250331-001 Commissioner Watson FY26 Budget Recommendation Seconded By: Commissioner Tetey Date: March 31, 2025 Subject: Motioned By: Recommendation Approve the base budget for the Urban Renewal Board (the “Board”) consistent with the approved FY 2024-25 budget, including a 5% increase for inflation, and providing an additional $100,000 to support additional anticipated operational expenses in connection with the proposed development project on Blocks 16 and 18 (the “Development Project”). During the past year the Board has engaged in an additional successful year of community engagement with area stakeholders including Ebenezer Church, Huston Tillotson University, Six Square and through the Board’s URB Stakeholder Working Group that includes area residents, businesses, and institutions, and recommended a development team for the Development Project that was approved by City Council. Now that predevelopment activities for the Development Project are imminent, we anticipate a busy year of activation relating to the Development Project and planning initiatives relating to the future of the Board beyond the completion of the Development Project. Additional budgeting also will help us provide complementary planning efforts to other major projects being undertaken in the immediate surrounding area including without limitation the expansion of Interstate 35 and the “cap and stitch” projects expected at 11th Street, the continued implementation of Project Connect and associated transportation improvements, planning initiatives by the Economic Development Department and District One offices, and the continued development of the African American Cultural Heritage District. We are requesting a total FY 2025-26 budget of $150,000. The development project for Block 16 & 18 that we have been advancing represents the most significant placemaking effort along East 11th Street and in the Urban Renewal Plan area in at least two decades, and potentially will set the stage to create a truly meaningful connection between Downtown and Greater East Austin. The Board requests funding to engage with consultants for additional planning to ensure that we properly coordinate pre-development and development activities to connect with and enhance each of these other monumental efforts to improve our city. Description of Recommendation to Council FY 2025-2026, the Board requests the base funding amount be increased for inflation and supplemented with funds to support additional operational expenses, planning initiatives for the Board, and additional planning relating to the Development Project. Rationale: 3957386.v1 1 of 3 Activation of Blocks 16 and 18 As the Development Project moves into the pre-development phase, there have …
DESIGN COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250324-002 March 24, 2025 AUS West Garage Vice Chair Meiners Seconded By: Commissioner Gelles Date: Subject: Motioned By: Recommendation The Design Commission recommends to City Council that the project AUS West Garage, located at 2921 1/2 Presidential Boulevard, complies with the City Design and Sustainability Standards with the inclusion of solar array, exploring water retention, increased electric vehicle capacity, increased vertical or horizontal vegetation to mitigate the heat island effect, and to encourage safer, intuitive paths for pedestrians Rationale: The Design Commission agreed that the project as presented met the City Design and Sustainability Standards with the inclusions outlined above. These inclusions are instrumental in meeting the Shared Values for Urban Areas as outlined in the Urban Design Guidelines with specific reference to sustainability. However, the quantity of electric vehicle charging stations was noted as being too small of a percentage of the overall proposed parking count. It was also discussed that a more intuitive and safe passage of pedestrians should be provided from the ground level to the terminals especially when crossing vehicular drives Vote For: Chair Salinas, Vice Chair Meiners, Commissioner Carroll, Commissioner Gelles, 6-0-1 Commissioner McKinney, Commissioner Murkes Commissioner Wittstruck Commissioner Howard, Commissioner Ladner, Commissioner Luckens, Commissioner Wallace Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: Jon Salinas, AIA Chair – Design Commission 1 of 1
ARTS COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250324-010 Date: 4/4/2025 Subject: Arts Commission FY26 Budget Recommendations Motioned By: Commissioner Gray Seconded By: Commissioner Houston RECOMMENDATIONS: 1. The Arts Commission requests that ACME staffing expenses and admin fees are to be sourced from the General Fund (or any other appropriate source) and NOT from limited Hotel Occupancy Taxes designated for Arts. (FY24-25 amount was approx. $548,000) / City of Austin General Fund 2. Fiscal support for Cultural Arts Service Organizations to be issued to better support applicants during the cultural funding program application process, in particular for translation service providers. $500,000 / City of Austin General Fund 3. The Arts Commission recommends the addition of the following two positions for each cultural facility: Asian American Resource Center, George Washington Carver Museum & Cultural Center, Mexican American Culture Center, and the Dougherty Arts Center. While we understand the marketing representatives may be housed within a central division or public information office, we recommend there’s 1 FTE with a dedicated portfolio of serving a given facility. a. 1. Marketing Representative A - Communicates via social and news outlets each facility’s programs, identifies sharing of related City-wide initiatives needing more input from cultural and arts communities tied to each facility. b. Community Engagement Specialist - Seeks community input into public planning processes, attends community events to share about programs, services, and updates on capital projects. 4. The Arts Commission recommends that City Council and the Mayor commit to complete the Dougherty Arts Center as designed by Studio 8, and include the Dougherty Arts Center in the 2026 Bond. 5. Fiscal support for the Creative Space Assistance Program – match FY24-25 funding lever. CSAP awards between $5,000 and $50,000 to commercial creative spaces facing displacement or new leases at higher and unaffordable rates. Grant funds may be used for revenue-generating space improvements, partial lease payments, and gap financing for creative space purchases. $1.5 Million/ City General Fund JUSTIFICATIONS REC. 1. Hotel Occupancy Taxes (HOT) are already limited in their scope and should be used primarily for direct support of arts organizations, artists, and cultural programming rather than administrative expenses. Ensures Long-Term Sustainability: Reliance on HOT for administrative costs creates funding instability, as these revenues fluctuate based on tourism trends. Shifting these costs to the General Fund ensures consistent support. Aligns with Best Practices: Other cities with thriving arts ecosystems, such as San Francisco and Seattle, allocate administrative costs separately …
Harold McMillan Cultural Advisor PLEASANT HILL COLLABORATIVE Block 16 and 18 VISION TO REALITY PLEASANT HILL COLLABORATIVE – BLOCK 16 & 18 PROPOSAL Harold McMillan Cultural Advisor Sean Garretson Project Manager PARTNERSHIP WITH URB/CITY/COMMUNITY Lessons learned make us a better partner to you, bringing best practices in design, construction, financing and legal structure. 44 PUBLIC PARTNERS SERVED NEW TO THE TEAM • zvv Sean Garretson Project Manager TERESA BOWYER LIHTC CONSULTANT PLEASANT HILL COLLABORATIVE – BLOCK 16 & 18 PROPOSAL VISION TO REALITY THINGS THAT KEEP US UP AT NIGHT and THAT WE EMBRACE ON THIS JOURNEY TO DEVELOP BLOCK 16/18 Sean Garretson Project Manager Cost vs Source Demand Parking Community PLEASANT HILL COLLABORATIVE – BLOCK 16 & 18 PROPOSAL Harold McMillan Cultural Advisor THANK YOU!
REGULAR MEETING of the ARTS COMMISSION March 24, 2025, at 6:00 PM Austin Energy, Mueller Assembly Rm 1111a (115). 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723 The ARTS COMMISSION convened in a REGULAR meeting on 24, March 2025 at Austin Energy, Mueller Assembly Rm 1111a (115). 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723 Commissioner Zisman called the ARTS COMMISSION Meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Celina Zisman, Heidi Schmalbach, Acia Gray, Sharron Anderson, Gina Houston, Nagavalli Medicharla, Felipe Garza Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Monica Maldonado, Keyheira Keys Board Members Absent: Faiza Kracheni CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Celina Zisman - Chair, Heidi Schmalbach - Vice Chair, Keyheira Keys, Monica Maldonado, Felipe Garza, Gina Houston, Acia Gray, Faiza Kracheni, Sharron B Anderson, Nagavalli Medicharla AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Natalie Earheart of Almost Real Things spoke about their Touch The Art event Daniel Llanes spoke about his desire to bring humanity back to arts funding by creating a task force that includes artists like himself APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Arts Commission Regular Meeting on February 24th, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of February 24, 2025 were approved on Commissioner Houston’s motion, Commissioner Gray’s second on a 7-0 vote with Commissioner’s Schmalbach and Anderson abstaining and Commissioner Kracheni absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Report of the Art in Public Places Liaison concerning actions taking during the March 3rd meeting of the Art in Public Places Panel by Commissioner Maldonado An update was given by Commissioner Maldonado 3. Presentation by Board Members of Austin Creative Alliance on the most recent petition to Council An update was given by Commissioner Zisman 8. Presentation by Artists Margo Sawyer, Paula Priour, and Dr. John Yancey on their efforts to save their pieces that are slated to be destroyed (rather than deaccessed/sold) when the Convention Center is rebuilt. The presentation was given by Artists Margo Sawyer, Paula Priour, and Dr. John Yancey STAFF BRIEFINGS 4. Staff briefing regarding an update on the Hotel Occupancy Tax by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor The presentation was made by Matthew Schmidt, Acting Cultural Arts Division Manager 5. Staff briefing on the Cultural Arts Funding Programs by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor The presentation was made by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor 9. Staff briefing to Arts and Music Commissions about Rally Austin Bond etc.by Anne Gatling Haynes, Chief Transactions Officer The presentation was …
MINUTES URBAN RENEWAL BOARD March 24, 2025, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1401/1402 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR. AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Manuel Escobar, Chair Darrell W, Pierce, Vice Chair Amit Motwani Byron Davis Jacqueline Watson Kobla Tetey Tam Hawkins Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Manuel Escobar, Commissioners Byron Davis, Kobla Tetey, and Jacqueline Watson, and Vice Chair Darrell W. Pierce. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: No members attended remotely. Board Members Absent/off the dais at call to order: Commissioner Tam Hawkins and Amit Motwani were absent. CALL TO ORDER Chair Escobar, called the meeting to order at 6:09 p.m. with five members present. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers who registered to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting, if speaking virtually, or who signed up prior to the meeting being called to order if speaking in person, will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. Harold McMillan and Sean Garretson addressed the board on item two. Paul Stables addressed the board on item three. 1 of 3 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Urban Renewal Board’s (URB’s) regular-called meeting on February 24, 2025 On Commissioner Watson’s motion, seconded by Commissioner Davis, the minutes from February 24, 2025, were approved with a vote of 5-0-0. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion related to updates on future development of Blocks 16 & 18 from Rally Austin and Pleasant Hill Collaborative, including project status and anticipated timeline (Lex Miller, Rally Austin, Jen Boss, Hayat Brown, Sean Garretson and Garrett Scharton, Pleasant Hill Collaborative) Harold McMilan and Sean Garretson from Pleasant Hill Collaborative addressed the board. 3. Discussion and possible action regarding the request to amend the Urban Renewal Plan to allow additional uses at 1201 E 11th St. Hunter Maples from the City of Austin Housing Department provided the update. Paul Staples updated the board on the rezoning of 11th St. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Discuss and approve further action in support of the Urban Renewal Board Recommendation to City Council related to the upcoming budget cycle for the Urban Renewal Board Assistant Director Anne Eaton of the Economic Development Department addressed the board. Director Angela Means, Office of Arts, Cultural Music and Entertainment, addressed the board. On Commissioner Watson’s motion, seconded by Commissioner Davis, Chair Escobar was authorized to submit a …
MUNICIPAL CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250324-003 Date: March 24, 2025 Subject: Recommendation of Chair of the Municipal Civil Service Commission Motioned By: Commissioner Umphress Seconded By: Vice Chair Gupta Recommendation The Municipal Civil Service Commission has made a recommendation to nominate Kevin Mullen as the Chair of the Municipal Civil Service Commission. Description of Recommendation to Council Article IX, Section 2(B) of the City Charter provides for the designation by the council of one of the commissioners of the Municipal Civil Service Commission as chair. In addition, Chapter 2-1-164(D) of City Code states council shall designate the commission chair annually at the time new commissioners are appointed. The appointment of Chair is traditionally reviewed and recommended by the Audit and Finance Committee when Commissioner appointments are recommended to Council. The Municipal Civil Service Commission has nominated Kevin Mullen to be reappointed as Chair for a term of one year. This will be Kevin Mullen’s second term as Chair of the Commission. Vote: 3 – 0 – 1 For: Kavita Gupta, Commission Vice Chair Melissa Rogers, Commissioner; John Umphress, Commissioner; Against: 0 Abstain: Kevin Mullen, Commission Chair Absent: 0 Attest: Matthew Chustz, Municipal & Civil Service Manager 1 of 1
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES MARCH 24, 2025 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MARCH 24, 2025 The PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD convened in a REGULAR meeting on March 24, 2025 at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas Vice Chair Flowers called the PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Stephanie Bazan, Lane Becker, Kathryn Flowers, Jennifer Franklin, Nicole Merritt. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Luai Abou-Emara (left meeting at 7:44 p.m.), Holly Reed. Board Members Absent: Shelby Orme, Kim Taylor, Pedro Villalobos. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Liz Barhydt - Austin Rowing Club Chris Flores - Swim scholarships and budget recommendation Gavino Fernandez - Mexican American Land Owners in East Austin Mike Cannatti - Joan Mean Khabele Bathhouse Project Joy Casnovsky - Austin Parks Foundation Fleetwood Jacobs - Zilker 351 Joel Manzo - Barton Springs and Zilker Park budget issues Mary Fero - Wildfire mitigation at Northwest park APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of February 24, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of February 24, 2025 was approved on Board Member Franklin’s motion, Board Member Bazan’s second on a 7-0 vote with one vacancy. Board Members Orme, Taylor and Villalobos absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for PARD Staff who have increased low- income access to PARD programs by improving financial aid programs, effective collaboration and removal of barriers. 1 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES MARCH 24, 2025 Christa McCarthy, Centralized Programming Division Manager and Davin, Bjornaas, Program Manager, Parks and Recreation Department gave a presentation and answered questions. The motion to and approve letters of support for PARD Staff who have increased low-income access to PARD programs by improving financial aid programs, effective collaboration and removal of barriers was approved on Vice Chair Flowers’ motion, Board Member Becker’s second on a 7-0 vote with one vacancy. Board Members Orme, Taylor and Villalobos absent. 3. Presentation, discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council to approve the negotiation and execution of an interlocal agreement between the City of Austin and the Austin Independent School District for Project SAFE, a swim lesson and water safety education program that includes opportunities for students to continue their education by joining either paid or free swim lessons …
