REGULAR MEETING OF THE LIBRARY COMMISSION June 30, 2025 – 6 P.M. Yarborough Branch Library 2200 Hancock Drive Austin, Texas This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and online virtual participation. Some members of the Commission may be participating via video conference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Pamela Carlile Kezia Frayjo Sara Gore Andrea Herrera Moreno CALL TO ORDER AGENDA Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Magen Davis Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Edward Selig PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on May 19, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Immigrant Services, provided by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian III, Austin Public Library. 3. Staff briefing on the June APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Discussion and Approval of the Date, Time and Agenda for a Special Called Library Commission Retreat. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If you require Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Laura Polio at the Library Department, at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Library Commission, please contact Laura Polio at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov.
1 APL Public Programming Highlights & Facilities Updates Hannah Terrell, Interim Director June 2025 HIGHLIGHTS Roots Unveiled Showcases 200 Years of Chinese American Stories The exhibition reception for Roots Unveiled: Chinese American History 1783–1945 was held on May 18 at the Central Library Gallery, drawing more than 200 attendees. As the first major institutional exhibition in Texas to explore the 200-year journey of Chinese Americans, it features over 60 historical artifacts, rarely seen archival materials, oral histories, and contemporary artworks. Highlights include Texas Roses, a collaborative portrait created by 71 local residents, and Cousins, a photo series reconnecting branches of the Lung family across the U.S. and China. The event brought together artists, scholars, and descendants of Austin’s earliest Chinese American families, alongside special guests such as Texas State Representative Gene Wu, Dr. Mitchel Wong, and leaders from the Austin Chinese American Network. Together, they helped underscore the powerful message that Chinese American history is an essential part of American history. Families Gather for a Fun-Filled Kids Block Party The Kids Block Party on Saturday, June 7 brought energy and excitement to the Central Library and Seaholm Intake Facility. Families participated in outdoor games, nature play, crafts, puppet- making, and STEM activities, with support from Parks and Recreation, the Austin Park Rangers, and other community partners. Highlights included storytimes, a laser light show, typewritten poems from Typewriter Rodeo, and photos with HEB Buddy. Inside the library, kids explored 3D pens, Makey Makey banana pianos, and a sensory-friendly room for quiet breaks. With something for every age, the event welcomed families into a summer of creativity, learning, and connection. The Reading and Badge Challenge 2025 The Reading and Badge Challenge 2025 launched on June 7 as part of Summer at Austin Public Library, inviting readers of all ages to explore the theme “Color Our World”. Participants are encouraged to read or be read to for at least 20 minutes a day—or a total of 600 minutes—and complete three activity badges by August 10. Starting June 10, readers can claim a prize at any APL branch while supplies last: a free book for ages 0–17 and a free mug for adults. The challenge is available online through Beanstack or in print at all library locations. APL Strategic Plan We are continuing the implementation phase of our strategic plan. Currently, we are customizing the tool provided by UT to ensure it aligns with …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes May 19, 2025 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, MAY 19, 2025 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, May 19, 2025, at the Southeast Branch Library in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Vice Chair Mehta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair Pamela Carlile Kezia Frayjo Sara Gore Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Andrea Herrera Moreno Edward Selig Board Members/Commissioners Absent: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Magen Davis PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on April 28, 2025. Library Commission Meeting Minutes May 19, 2025 The April 28, 2025, minutes were approved at the May 19, 2025, regular meeting on a motion by Commissioner Selig, seconded by Commissioner Gore. The motion passed on an 8–0 vote. Chair Infante Huerta and Commissioner Davis were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation by Wendy Woodland, Director of Advocacy & Communications for the Texas Library Association, on legislative issues impacting libraries and TLA’s work in this area. Wendy Woodland, Director of Advocacy & Communications for the Texas Library Association, presented information on legislative issues impacting libraries and TLA’s work in this area. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. STAFF BRIEFING 3. Staff briefing on Summer at Austin Public Library and Kids Block Party, by Alanna Graves, Librarian III, Austin Public Library. The briefing was presented by Alanna Graves, Librarian III, Austin Public Library. 4. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Language Access, by Baylor Johnson, Public Information & Marketing Program Manager, Austin Public Library. The briefing was presented by Baylor Johnson, Public Information & Marketing Program Manager, Austin Public Library. 5. Staff briefing on the May APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The briefing was presented by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT Vice Chair Mehta adjourned the meeting at 7:41 p.m. without objection.
Welcoming Services at Austin Public Library Newcomer Engagement & Navigation June 30, 2025 Laura Tadena (she/her/ella) Community Engagement Librarian Austin Central Library Agenda 1 2 3 4 5 Community Context & Growth Overview of APL’s Welcoming Services Enhanced Library Cards What’s Next Q&A Austin is a Welcoming City The City of Austin is part of a Welcoming Network, a national coalition of 300+ local governments and nonprofits working to build more inclusive and welcoming communities in the United States. Austin is pursuing Certified Welcoming status, with a goal of achieving a 2-star designation The Welcoming Standard recognizes public libraries as essential infrastructure for: Hubs for language access and learning Facilitators of civic participation Anchors of cultural connection and trust- building Why this work matters. Austin is rapidly changing: One of the fastest-growing and most diverse cities in the U.S. Immigrants make up 14% of Austin’s population. Nearly 1 in 3 children in Austin has at least one immigrant parent. Libraries are already essential to this populations: According to ALA’s New Americans Library Project White Paper: Over 55% of new Americans use their public library weekly. Vera Institute (n.d.). Profile of the foreign-born population in Austin, Texas: https://vera-institute.files.svdcdn.com/production/downloads/publications/profile-foreign- born-population-austin.pdf Language Access & Community Need What is “Linguistic Isolation”? According to the U.S. Census Bureau, a household is considered linguistically isolated if: “No person age 14 or older speaks English at least ‘very well.’” What does this mean? No one in the home can confidently navigate forms, services, or institutions in English. These households are more likely to face barriers to education, health care, housing, and civic participation. Darker areas = higher levels of linguistic isolation; helps to identify residents who may need: Translated information In-language services Bilingual or multilingual staff Outreach that is culturally and linguistically responsive Map: 2020 ACS Linguistic Isolation by Census Tract What are Welcoming Services? Austin Public Library plays a vital role in helping all Austinites, regardless of language, status, or origin, feel welcomed and empowered to discover, learn and create. Welcoming Services are: Rooted in trust, safety, and dignity Designed to support newcomers and multilingual communities Moves beyond access to foster belonging, leadership, and connection Strategic Alignment APL’s Strategic Plan City of Austin Alignment Certified Welcoming Standards SG1 Provide Community-Centric Programs & Services: We design services with and for our diverse communities. SG3 Foster Stakeholder Relationships: We build partnerships that strengthen community trust and connection. SG4 …
Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Advisory Board Community Interest Announcement ESB-MACC Awards of Excellence Ceremony June 28, 2025, at 3:00 pm Long Center- Kodosky Lounge, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704 A quorum of Commission members may be present. No action will be taken, and no Commission business will occur. Michelle Rojas, Board Liaison 512-974-3771
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING of the HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, June 27, 2025 – 8:30 AM Permitting and Development Center – Room 4001 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Austin, TX 78752 Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, please email preservation@austintexas.gov. COMMISSION MEMBERS: Ben Heimsath, (D-8) Chair Roxanne Evans (D-2), Vice Chair Jeffrey Acton (Mayor) Harrison Eppright (D-1) Kevin Koch (D-3) Judah Rice (D-4) Harmony Grogan (D-5) Carl Larosche (D-6) Jaime Alvarez (D-7) Bat Taniguchi (D-9) Trey McWhorter (D-10) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first (10) speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. 2. Presentation and discussion on the Historic Preservation Office, Commission review processes, historic designations, and Historic Landmark Commission Committees. Presenter: Kalan Contreras, Historic Preservation Office Presentation and discussion on dais procedures, duties, and discussions. Presenter: Kelly Little, Certified Local Government Program, Texas Historical Commission 1 3. 4. 5. Presentation and discussion on the Heritage Preservation Grant Program. Presenter: Melissa Alvarado, Heritage Tourism Division, Office of Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment Presentation and discussion on Robert’s Rules of Order and standard motion language. Presenter: Mary Marrero, City of Austin Law Department Presentation and discussion on the Equity-Based Preservation Plan. Presenter: Cara Bertron, Historic Preservation Office ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call the Historic Preservation Office at 512-974-3393 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Historic Landmark Commission, please contact Sam Fahnestock, Historic Preservation Planner II, at 512-974-3393; Austin Lukes, Historic Preservation Planner Senior, at 512-978-0766; or Kalan Contreras, Historic Preservation Officer, at 512-974-2727. 2 3
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING of the HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION FRIDAY, June 27, 2025 – 8:30 AM Permitting and Development Center – Room 4001 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Austin, TX 78752 Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, please email preservation@austintexas.gov. COMMISSION MEMBERS: Ben Heimsath, (D-8) Chair Roxanne Evans (D-2), Vice Chair Jeffrey Acton (Mayor) Harrison Eppright (D-1) Kevin Koch (D-3) Judah Rice (D-4) Harmony Grogan (D-5) Carl Larosche (D-6) Jaime Alvarez (D-7) Bat Taniguchi (D-9) Trey McWhorter (D-10) REVISED AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first (10) speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. 2. Presentation and discussion on the Historic Preservation Office, Commission review processes, historic designations, and Historic Landmark Commission Committees. Presenter: Kalan Contreras, Historic Preservation Office Presentation and discussion on dais procedures, duties, and discussions. Presenter: Kelly Little, Certified Local Government Program, Texas Historical Commission 1 3. 4. 5. Presentation and discussion on the Heritage Preservation Grant Program. Presenter: Melissa Alvarado, Heritage Tourism Division, Office of Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment Presentation and discussion on Robert’s Rules of Order and standard motion language. Presenter: Mary Marrero, City of Austin Law Department Presentation and discussion on the Equity-Based Preservation Plan. Presenter: Cara Bertron, Historic Preservation Office ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call the Historic Preservation Office at 512-974-3393 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Historic Landmark Commission, please contact Sam Fahnestock, Historic Preservation Planner II, at 512-974-3393; Austin Lukes, Historic Preservation Planner Senior, at 512-978-0766; or Kalan Contreras, Historic Preservation Officer, at 512-974-2727. 2 3
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION June 26, 2025, 6:00 P.M. City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room #1101 301 West 2nd St Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Christi Vitela, 512- 974-2792, christi.vitela@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Ivanna Neri, Chair Daniela Silva, Vice Chair Amanda Afifi Dulce Castañeda Lyssette Galvan Kevin Jackson Jr Johanna Moya Fábregas Brian Peña Jesús Perales Yesenia Ramos Melissa Ruiz 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 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on March 25, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation regarding the need for funding for Academia Cuauhtli. 3. Update from the Joint Inclusion Committee representative on the work of the committee from the past three months. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM 4. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Christi Vitela at the City Clerk’s Department, at 512-974-2792, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission please contact Christi Vitela at 512-974-2792 or christi.vitela@austintexas.gov.
Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission March 25, 2025 HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, March 25, 2025 The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Silva called the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:08 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Daniela Silva, Vice Chair Melissa Ruiz Brian Peña Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Ivanna Neri, Chair Amanda Afifi Lyssette Galvan Jesus Perales PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on February 25, 2025. The minutes from the meeting on February 25, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Peña’s motion, Commissioner Perales’ second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Castañeda and Jackson were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion of the undocumented immigrant policy at the Austin Police Department. Presentation by Stephanie Gonzales, Equity and Inclusion Coordinator, Austin Police Department, and Fausto Rodriguez, Executive Lieutenant, Austin Police Department. 1 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission March 25, 2025 The presentation was made by Stephanie Gonzales, Equity and Inclusion Coordinator, Austin Police Department, Fausto Rodriguez, Executive Lieutenant, Austin Police Department, and Sadot Azzua, Public Information Specialist Senior, Communications and Public Information Office. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATION 3. Report of recommendations from the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget Working Group. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM 4. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget. The motion to approve the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget Recommendation was made by Commissioner Perales and seconded by Commissioner Peña. The following amendment was made by Vice Chair Silva, seconded by Commissioner Perales. The amendment was to insert the following to the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget Recommendation. “Family Stabilization Program as a Mechanism for Promoting Housing Stability Recommendation As in previous years, affordability continues to be one of the most common issues expressed by residents. The Family Stabilization Program offers more flexible access to housing support, accords more choice and dignity, reduces discrimination, and offers more efficient and cost-effective housing. The current pilot funds are primarily helping people of color, including Hispanic or Latino/a/x families. Additionally, over half of the participants identify as African American or Latina women. Last year, the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission recommended ongoing funding …
Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission June 26, 2025 HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES Thursday, June 26, 2025 The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission convened in a special called meeting on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St in Austin, Texas. Commissioner Afifi called the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Amanda Afifi Melissa Ruiz Brian Peña Yesenia Ramos Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Dulce Castañeda Jesús Perales PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on March 25, 2025. The minutes from the meeting on March 25, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Perales’ motion, Commissioner Castañeda’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Galvan, Jackson, Moya Fábregas, and Silva were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation regarding the need for funding for Academia Cuauhtli. The presentation was made by Dr. María Unda, Academia Cuauhtli. 1 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission June 26, 2025 3. Update from the Joint Inclusion Committee representative on the work of the committee from the past three months. Commissioner Afifi provided an update. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM 4. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair. The motion to approve Commissioner Afifi as Chair was approved on Commissioner Peña’s motion, Commissioner Castañeda’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Galvan, Jackson, Moya Fábregas, and Silva were absent. The motion to approve Commissioner Ramos as Vice Chair was approved on Commissioner Ramos’ motion, Commissioner Peña’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Galvan, Jackson, Moya Fábregas, and Silva were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Recommendation for support of Academia Cuauhtli Recommendation regarding the Office of Community Liaison Communications and Technology Management Presentation Know Your Rights Presentation Director of Office of Equity and Inclusion ADJOURNMENT The motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:05 p.m. was approved on Vice Chair Peña’s motion, Commissioner Ramos’ second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Galvan, Jackson, Moya Fábregas, and Silva were absent. The minutes were approved at the July 22, 2025, regular called meeting on Commissioner Perales’ motion, Commissioner Silva’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Peña was off the dais. Commissioners Jackson and Ramos were absent. 2
JOINT SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE HYBRID MEETING FORMAT June 25, 2025 at 6 pm Austin Energy Headquarters Shudde Fath Conference Room 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, Texas 78723 Some members of the Committee 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, email or call Rohan Lilauwala at (Rohan.lilauwala@austintexas.gov or 512-974-9394). CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Home Commission Electric Utility Commission Resource Management Commission Urban Transportation Commission Environmental Commission Zero Waste Advisory Commission Community Development Commission Austin Travis County Food Policy Board Economic Prosperity Commission Water & Wastewater Commission Parks & Recreation Board Design Commission Planning Commission Austin/Travis County Public Health Commission City Council Mayor’s Representative Mayor’s Representative Mayor’s Representative Mayor’s Representative Mayor’s Representative Alternate Al Braden Member Kaiba White (Chair) Charlotte Davis (Vice-Chair) GeNell Gary Vacant Haris Qureshi Vacant Vacant Andrew Smith Aaron Gonzales Chris Maxwell-Gaines Lane Becker Jon Salinas Josh Hillier Chris Crookham Vacant Vacant Vacant Vacant Marissa Bell Vacant Amanda Marzullo Shelby Orme Evgenia Murkes Vacant Vacant Vacant Rodrigo Leal Anna Scott Yure Suarez Christopher Campbell Diana Wheeler Vacant N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A For more information, please visit: www.austintexas.gov/jsc 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. Approval of minutes from the April 23rd, 2025 meeting of the Joint Sustainability Committee STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff Briefing on the Environmentally Preferable Procurement Program – Matt Duree, Capital Procurement, Financial Services Department DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 2024-2025 Joint Sustainability Committee Annual Report DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Recommendation in support of Solar on City Facilities and a Revolving Fund. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please contact Rohan Lilauwala at rohan.lilauwala@austintexas.gov or 512-974-9394 …
JOINT SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING MEETING MINUTES April 23, 2025 The Joint Sustainability Committee convened in a hybrid meeting via videoconferencing and at Austin Energy Headquarters. Board Members in Attendance in Person: Kaiba White, Chris Maxwell-Gaines, Jon Salinas, Melissa Rothrock, Isabella Changsut, Charlotte Davis Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Diana Wheeler, Shelby Orme, Marissa Bell, Alberta Phillips, Anna Scott, Heather Houser, Rodrigo Leal Board Members Absent: Amy Noel, Chris Crookham, Chris Campbell, Yure Suarez City Staff in Attendance: Rohan Lilauwala, Braden Latham-Jones, Michelle Marx, Richard Mendoza, Eric Bailey, Marcus Hammer, Barbara Shack CALL TO ORDER Chair Kaiba White called the meeting to order at 6:06 pm. Public Communication • Tom 1. Approval of minutes from the March 26rd, 2025 meeting of the Joint Sustainability Committee. • Davis motion, Maxwell-Gaines second, passes on a 10-0 vote (Salinas abstains, Leal and Bell off dais). DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 2026 Bond Development Process – Eric Bailey and Marcus Hammer, Capital Delivery Services Department; Braden Latham-Jones, Office of Climate Action and Resilience. • Scott: How will changes in bond rates affect bond? • Bailey: If rates go up, total amount available will decrease. Prioritization matrix will help identify the most important things. Rates set on a yearly basis when the funding is needed, when city goes to market. • White: will GHG assessment be done on all projects? Life cycle? In-house? • Bailey: one of technical criteria is sustainability/environment. Working through how projects will be scored. Not enough staff to evaluate all projects – could need consultant support (probably available on existing rotation list). • Davis: how is the size of the bond package decided? • Bailey: multiple factors: bond capacity of city; how much city can deliver in 6 years. Decided as part of public process, with BEATF, council, etc. In Aug 2026, council will call for bond election – that’s when language and total dollar value will be finalized. • White: what is general range of bonding capacity? • Bailey: all debts (incl. non-voter approved bonds) affect capacity. When needs assessment was first completed, list was 600 projects, $10b. Evaluating projects against eligibility, it’s now 200 projects, $4b. Safe assumption that it’ll land under $1b, but work to be done. • Phillips: How do certificates of obligation fit in? • Bailey: Not part of 2026 plan, defers to Financial Services Department for further info. 3. I-35 Cap and Stitch Updates – Richard Mendoza …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING of the ETHICS REVIEW COMMISSION JUNE 25, 2025 at 6:00 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM, #1101 301 W 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Ethics Review Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public Speakers: Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. If participating remotely by telephone, a speaker must register no later than noon the day before the meeting. To register to speak remotely, contact Lizette Benitez at (512) 974-2915 or lizette.benitez@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Chair William Ross Pumfrey Patrick Keel Amy Casto Haksoon Andrea Low Wallace Lundgren Brian McGiverin Jordan Preddy Luis Figueroa William King Vice-Chair Brittany Sharkey Secretary Adam Materne AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL There is no limit on the number of speakers who may speak on agenda items. There is a limit on the number of speakers who may speak on items not posted on the agenda—only the first ten speakers who register prior to the meeting being called to order will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address non-agenda items. For more information on public communication, please see the “Notice Regarding Public Communication” at the end of this agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Ethics Review Commission Regular meeting on April 23, 2025. 1 EXECUTIVE SESSION The Ethics Review Commission may announce it will go into Executive Session pursuant to Chapter 551.071 of the Texas Government Code to receive advice from legal counsel on any matter listed in this agenda. 2. 3. 4. 5. The Ethics Review Commission may announce it will go into Executive Session pursuant to Chapter 551.071 of the Texas Government Code to receive advice from legal counsel to discuss: A complaint filed by Adam Haynes against Mike Siegel raising claimed violations of City Code Chapter 2-2 (Campaign Finance), Section 2-2-13 (Candidates’ Contribution Limits), Section 2-2-21 (Additional Information Required on All Campaign Finance Reports Filed with the City), and City Charter, Article III, Section 8 (Limits on Campaign Contributions and Expenditures). The Ethics Review Commission may announce it will go into Executive Session pursuant to Chapter 551.071 of the Texas Government Code to receive advice from legal counsel to discuss: A complaint filed by …
REGULAR MEETING of the BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION Wednesday, June 25, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive, Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Building and Standards Commission may be participating via videoconference. The meeting may also be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Melanie Alley at 512-974-2679 or melanie.alley@austintexas.gov. AGENDA The Building and Standards Commission (“Commission”) may go into a closed session under Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code to receive advice from legal counsel or for other reasons permitted by law as specifically listed on this agenda. Further, if necessary, the Commission may go into a closed session as permitted by law regarding any item on this agenda. Building and Standards Commission Members Timothy Stostad, Chair Blaine Campbell, Vice-Chair Raisch Tomlanovich Grant Gilker Michael Francis Jeffrey Musgrove Kurt Lockhart Maria Elena O Ibarra Stephen Truesdell, Fire Marshal (Ex Officio) CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Building and Standards Commission regular meeting on April 23, 2025. PUBLIC HEARINGS New Case(s) The Commission will hear the following cases concerning alleged violations of the City’s Property Maintenance Code and may issue an order to vacate, relocate occupants, repair, demolish, or secure the premises; and may assess civil penalties: Page 1 2. Case Number: CL 2025-036211 Property address: 212 Dunlap Street / Owner: Hector G Reyna Staff presenter: Roman Lopez Staff recommendation: Repair residential structure 3. Case Number: CL 2025-049075 Property address: 1209 E 52nd Street / Owner: 1209 East Apartments LLC Staff presenter: Courtney Britt Staff recommendation: Repair commercial multi-family structure. 4. Case Number: CL 2025-050605 Property address: 1807 Ferguson Lane / Owners: Lucille Jennings Staff presenter: Erica Thompson Staff recommendation: Demolish fire-damaged residential structure. 5. Case Number: CL 2025-058648 Property address: 1122 E 51st Street / Owner: 51st Center LLC Staff …
Regular Meeting of the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) Wednesday, June 25th, 2025, at 3:00 P.M. CST Boards and Commission Room #1101, 301 W. Second Street, Austin, TX 78701 and some members may be attending via videoconference Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Alejandra Mireles (Equity and Inclusion Program Coordinator, Equity Division) at (512) 974-8045 or alejandra.mireles@austintexas.gov. CURRENT JIC MEMBER COMMISSIONS & REPRESENTATIVES: Member Commission: African American Resource Advisory Commission Asian American Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission Primary Representative: Justin Parsons Alternate Representative: Alexandra Anderson Nirali J Thakkar Nayer Sikder Commission for Women Diana Melendez Richard Bondi Melissa Ortega Commission on Aging Commission on Immigrant Affairs Commission on Veterans Affairs Bryce F Laake-Stanfield Early Childhood Council Hispanic/Latino Quality-of-Life Resource Advisory Commission Human Rights Commission LGBTQ+ Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Alice Navarro Amanda Afifi (Chair) Jeffrey Clemmons Jerry Joe Benson Lisa Chang Becky Bullard Teresa Ferguson Miriam Dorantes Vacant Andrea McIllwain Daniela Silva Muneeb "Meebs" Aslam Katie Coyne Conor H. Kelly 1 AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION 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 JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE’s REGULAR MEETING May 28th, 2025. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing to provide an introduction and overview of the Office of Equity and Inclusion by Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director, Office of Equity and Inclusion, Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Office of Equity and Inclusion, and Enrique Serrano, Civil Rights Officer, Office of Equity and Inclusion. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. Discussion on Joint Inclusion Committee meeting norms and commissioner expectations, including a review of conduct guidelines for all commissioners, a review of the standard two-hour meeting duration, and strategies to maintain quorum throughout meetings. Discussion on attendance records for Joint Inclusion Committee commissioners, including a review of past absence rates and consideration of measures to support consistent participation. Discussion on JIC collaborating with other Public Safety Commission, Community Development Commission, Ethics …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Joint Inclusion Committee Recommendation Number: (20250625-011): Community Investment Budget 2025/2026 WHEREAS, the City of Austin is committed to an inclusive and transparent budget development process that utilizes resident and stakeholder feedback to ensure budget priorities are being met1; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has made community engagement a core pillar of its budget planning process, employing a diverse mix of tools and strategies—including multilingual surveys, public meetings, digital budget simulators, and data transparency initiatives—to ensure residents play a meaningful role in shaping the city's funding priorities; and WHEREAS, for the last several years, 30 to 40 community groups have come together on a yearly basis to create detailed budget recommendations known as the Community Investment Budget, issued by Equity Action; and WHEREAS, the 2025/2026 version of the Community Investment Budget includes closely mirrors Joint Inclusion Committee budget recommendations for funding Undoing Racism training, sustained funding for Family Stabilization Grant, additional funds for climate resilience initiatives and prepared meals; and WHEREAS, the 2025/2026 version of the Community Investment Budget addresses concerns that echo or are similar to Joint Inclusion Committee recommendations on additional funds for: Implementation of climate resilience and disaster preparedness initiatives, Immigrant legal and other support services, • • Numerous recommendations on enhancing childcare services, • • Expansion of programs offered by Office of Equity and Inclusion, • Culturally competent community engagement during emergencies, • Expansion of emergency shelters for inclement weather events, • Expansion of cool corridors, • Know Your Rights clinics, and • Expansion of technical apprenticeships and training. 1 https://www.austintexas.gov/page/city-budget Page 1 of 2 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Joint Inclusion Committee encourages the Austin City Council to adopt the Community Investment Budget 2025/2026. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: (Unanimous on a 7-0 vote, 4-3 vote with names of those voting no listed) Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign) Page 2 of 2
Expansion and Empowerment of the Community Liaison Office Proposal to Expand and Elevate the Austin Police Department Community Liaison Office Overview: In order to strengthen community policing, build trust with minoritized communities, and ensure that feedback from impacted groups shapes department policy and practice, we propose expanding and elevating the Community Liaison Office within the Austin Police Department (APD). Key Changes Proposed: ● Structural Elevation: Move the Community Liaison Office out of the Public Information Office (PIO) and establish it as an independent division that reports directly to the Chief of Police (or a designated Assistant Chief). ● Role Expansion: Assign both a civilian liaison and a sworn officer liaison for each major minoritized community (such as LGBTQ+, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, Asian American/Pacific Islander, and Women). These teams would work in close partnership, giving community members the choice of engaging with a civilian or a sworn officer depending on the nature of their concern. ● Formalization of Sworn Officer Roles: Formalize the currently unofficial liaison roles many sworn officers already fulfill, making community liaison work an official, recognized part of their job duties and workload. ● Direct Communication Channels: Create dedicated public contact points (e.g., phone hotline numbers and emails) for each liaison team, and ensure they are prominently available on the APD website and communications. ● Training Responsibilities: Liaison officers would assist in training the broader police force on issues specific to their communities, such as: ○ Correct use of pronouns and respectful engagement with transgender residents ○ Cultural sensitivity and best practices for interacting with various minoritized groups ○ Awareness of systemic issues and culturally competent policing ● Commission and JIC Engagement: Require that liaisons regularly engage with their corresponding City of Austin Quality of Life Commissions (e.g., the Asian American QOL Commission, the LGBTQIA+ Commission) and provide updates and receive input. The liaisons should act as bridges between community representation bodies and APD leadership. ● Policy Feedback Role: Empower liaison teams to provide policy recommendations to APD leadership informed by the needs of their respective communities, ensuring direct integration of lived experiences into policing policy. Goals of This Proposal: ● Create more accessible, transparent, and culturally competent channels for communication between APD and minoritized communities. ● Ensure that community voices—especially those represented by the city's various commissions and the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC)—are actively heard and integrated into APD policies and practices. ● Build lasting trust by …
M E M O R A N D U M TO: Mayor and City Council THROUGH: Jon Fortune, Deputy City Manager FROM: Carrie Rogers, Intergovernmental Relations Officer DATE: Tuesday, June 3, 2025 SUBJECT: Intergovernmental Relations Office – State Legislative Update 89th Texas Legislature Adjourns Sine Die The Texas Legislature adjourned their 89th Session Sine Die on Monday, June 2, 2025, at 12 p.m. A list of bills filed this session that would impact the City of Austin operations are attached. The Intergovernmental Relations Office will work with the Law Department and all City departments to review final bills passed and begin the work of implementing new laws. The legislative team, with regular engagement by Mayor Kirk Watson, worked with legislators throughout the session, including weekly committee schedules and daily floor alerts prepared for delegation members. The legislative team also collaborated routinely with city departments, peer cities and community stakeholders on shared priorities. We extend enormous appreciation to our partners, most especially the Austin legislative delegation, and Members across the state and their staff for working with our legislative team. The following update is based on information currently available. Local Government Preemption Several bills were filed relating to preemption of local government. • Senate Bill (SB) 2858 by Senator Creighton did not pass. SB 2858, considered the next iteration of House Bill (HB) 2127 passed during the 88th Texas Legislature, would have preempted local regulations that conflict with state statutes regarding, elections, health and safety, and criminal justice. The bill would have authorized the Attorney General to investigate alleged violations within three months and possibly withhold sales taxes during that time. • SB 18 by Representative Hull did not pass. The bill would have prohibited municipal libraries from receiving state or other public funding if they host events where a man presenting as a woman, or a woman presenting as a man, reads a story to a minor. PAGE: DATE: SUBJECT: 2 of 7 June 3, 2025 IGR State Legislative Update • SB 412 by Senator Middleton passed the Legislature and has been signed by the Governor, effective September 1, 2025. The bill amends the Texas Penal Code to remove the affirmative defense for individuals – such as educators, librarians, or parents – who distribute or display material deemed "harmful to minors" under the justification of having a scientific, educational, governmental, or similar purpose. • SB 689 by Senator Hughes did …
