• The Montopolis-Fairway Mixed Use Zoning & FLUM Case is a clear example of Environmental Racism. Montopolis is a predominantly low- income community with a majority of people of color. • Montopolis families are being squeezed out by luxury & unaffordable apartments. Thes new Apartments do not serve families. The majority of over 3,744 apartment units are 1- or 2- bedroom units. The Montopolis-Fairway Mix Use Case is currently zoned SF-3-GR- NP. The Montopolis-Fairway Mix Use case is a developers speculation case and here is the evidence: • On February 21, 2024 it was presentd as CS-MU-V-NP. • On May 17th, 2024, it was then presented as CS-DB90-NP • On September 19, 2025 is was presented as GR-V-NP • On January 22, 2026 is presented as GR-V-DB90-NP • We know where fundamental change is most urgently needed. Montopolis already has the highest concentration of multifamily, commercial and industrial zoning of any planning area in the city. Our green spaces, like our single-family zoning, are precious and limited. Help us to protect our families and our community by opposing clearly incompatible and unwelcome development. Montopolis has Currently has Over 3,744 apartment units. More units will be built in the near future. Montopolis Single family homes are being destroyed. We need to preserve our single family housing
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION DRAFT MEETING MINUTES MARCH 10th, 2026 The COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION convened in a REGULAR MEETING on MARCH 10th, 2026, at CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSION ROOM, in Austin, Texas. Some members of the commission participated by video conference. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Jose Noe Elias (Chair) Cynthia Jaso Jenny Achilles Lyric Wardlow Tiffany Moore Raul Longoria Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Cassandra Medrano Ebonie Oliver JoAnne Ortiz Sonia Martinez Nyeka Arnold Taniquewa Brewster Valerie Menard Tisha-Vonique Hood Board Members/Commissioners Absent: Staff Members in Attendance: Angel Zambrano Lorena Lopez Chavarin (Remotely) Miguel Lopez Nefertitti Jackmon CALL TO ORDER Chair Elias called the meeting to order at 6:31 PM, with 8 members present. Commissioner Longoria, Arnold and Medrano joined the dais at 6:37 PM, bringing the total to 11 members present. Commissioners Menard, Tisha, and Brewster joined the dais at 6:42 PM, bringing the total 14 Commissioners present. 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. Susana Almanza from PODER spoke regarding the Equity Overlay. Zenobia Joseph spoke regarding bus shelters and infrastructure on Mopac. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the CDC Regular meeting on February 10th, 2026. On Commissioner Longoria's motion, Commissioner Lyric seconded, and February 10th, 2026, the minutes were approved on a 12-0-1 vote. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) activities and outcomes. Presentation by Angel Zambrano, Program Manager III, Austin Public Health. Angel Zambrano presented on the Community Services Block Grant. 3. Staff briefing regarding Austin Housing activities and outcomes will be included in Item 5 “Update on the Austin Housing Community Initiated Solutions (CIS) and Anti-Displacement Community Acquisition Program (ADCAP) programs”. Presentation by Nefertitti Jackmon, Community Displacement Prevention Officer, Austin Housing. Nefertitti Jackmon presented. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Update on the CDC Annual Retreat. Discussion led by Miguel Lopez, Planner I, Austin Housing. 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 by calling 512-974-1606 at least 2 days prior to the meeting date. TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more …
My Community Needs The Annual Action Plan decides how to distribute approximately $14 million in grant funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The programs from this grant fund affordable housing, job creation, and public service needs for low- and moderate-income families, persons with disabilities, and seniors. Tuesday, April 14th at Community Development Commission nd Austin City Hall (301 W. 2 Street) Thursday, April 23rd at Austin City Council Austin City Hall (301 W. 2 Street) nd Learn more at SpeakUpAustin.org/MyCommunityNeeds Share your community needs by attending a Public Hearing and/or filling out the Needs Assessment Survey that informs the Action Plan. (512) 974-3100 | Housing@AustinTexas.govAustinTexas.gov/Housing | SpeakUpAustin.org/HousingHub El Plan de Acción Anual decide cómo distribuir aproximadamente $14 millones en subvenciones de Servicios de Vivienda de Austin y Desarrollo Urbano de los Estados Unidos (HUD). Los programas de esta subvención financian viviendas asequibles, la creación de empleo y las necesidades de servicios públicos para familias de ingresos bajos y moderados, personas con discapacidad y personas mayores. Mis necesidades comunitarias Martes 14 de abril en la Comisión de Desarrollo Comunitario Ayuntamiento de Austin (301 W. 2nd Street) Jueves 23 de abril en el Ayuntamiento de Austin Ayuntamiento de Austin (301 W. 2nd Street) Obtenga más información en SpeakUpAustin.org/MyCommunityNeeds_esp Comparta las necesidades de su comunidad asistiendo a una Audiencia Pública y/o completando la Encuesta de Evaluación de Necesidades que informa el Plan de Acción. (512) 974-3100 | Housing@AustinTexas.govAustinTexas.gov/Housing | SpeakUpAustin.org/HousingHub
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Community Development Commission WHEREAS, The Austin Community Development Commission is tasked with reviewing programs designed to serve the poor and the community at large, and providing recommendations to the Austin City Council; WHEREAS, the Community Development Commission has discussed the need for deeply affordable housing with the Austin Housing Department, the Austin Planning Department, additional city departments, and community organizations, that coordinate with community development programs; and WHEREAS, one of those community organizations, People Organized in Defense of Earth and her Resources (PODER), has brought forward a recommendation to city council to purchase the property at Montopolis and Fairway to secure the property for future low-income single-family housing; and WHEREAS, In 2001 the Austin City Council adopted the Montopolis Neighborhood Plan, which called for sustaining its single-family zoning in the heart of Montopolis; and WHEREAS, the 2018 report, “Uprooted: Residential Displacement in Austin’s Gentrifying Neighborhood and What Can be Done About It,” commissioned by the Austin City Council and completed by University of Texas experts recommended that the city make strategic, anti- displacement investments in Montopolis to protect it from further gentrification; and WHEREAS, for years, the Montopolis Neighborhood Plan Contact Team, along with other supporters, have been fighting to sustain its single-family zoning; and WHEREAS, Montopolis already has the highest concentration of multifamily, commercial, and industrial zoning of any planning area in the city; and WHEREAS, The 1.9 acres, known as the Montopolis-Fairway Zoning case, is currently zoned for single-family housing and includes properties at 6202, 6204 Caddie Street; 6205, 6211, 6215 Fairway Street; 1600, 1604, 1606, 1608, 1612, and 1614 Montopolis; and WHEREAS, while the zoning request from the developer to change the zoning from Single- Family (SF-3-NP) and Community Commercial (GR-NP) to Community Commercial Vertical mixed use (GR-V-NP) was denied, the property remains vulnerable to future gentrifying developments; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Community Development Commission recommends that the city of Austin purchase the property included in the Montopolis-Fairway zoning case to be used to build low-income single-family housing and protect the neighborhood from future gentrification.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Support for allocating $10 million for rental assistance Date: April XX, 2026 Subject: Rental Assistance Recommendations Motioned By: Commissioner Seconded By: Commissioner Recommendation Description of Recommendation to Council ● Allocate $10 million in funding to restart the rental assistance program and to provide emergency rental assistance. Rationale As Austin celebrates the recent decrease in rents driven by an increase in housing supply, the reality is that our community is also experiencing record numbers of evictions and a growing number of neighbors facing homelessness. The increase in housing supply has contributed to declining rents at the higher end of the market, but it has not meaningfully improved affordability for those struggling on the lower end of the income spectrum, especially because the increased density has led to the demolition of naturally occurring affordable housing. Austin must continue to address housing supply, but we must also ensure that our policies support those most at risk of displacement. Protecting our most vulnerable residents is essential to maintaining the inclusive and resilient community we strive to be. As lower-wage workers—those who keep our city functioning every day—struggle to remain in Austin, the Housing Department has made the decision to end its rental assistance program. This program has been a critical lifeline. According to Dr. Murillo of El Buen Samaritano, it was already reaching only about 20% of those in need—families on the brink of eviction. Ending the program now, when the need is clearly far greater than the resources available, will only exacerbate housing instability across our community. For many families, rental assistance is the difference between stability and eviction, between remaining housed and falling into homelessness. Commendation Whereas, data shows that higher income, luxury developments dominate the housing built in Austin over the past several years, and Whereas, although Austin is leading the nation in affordable unit development, we are only building housing at 60% MFI and above, and Whereas, Austin is falling behind in the development of housing that is affordable for our lowest-income neighbors, particularly those living at or below 30% of the Area Median Income (AMI), and Whereas, nearly half of all renters struggling to pay rent and Austin is seeing more than 14,000 evictions in the last 12 months, and Whereas, the Austin Community Development Commission has heard countless stories from residents highlighting the urgent need for rental assistance and the importance of expanding, not …
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES APRIL 14th, 2026 The COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION convened in a REGULAR MEETING on APRIL 14th, 2026, at CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSION ROOM, in Austin, Texas. Some members of the commission participated by video conference. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Jose Noe Elias (Chair) Cynthia Jaso Jenny Achilles Lyric Wardlow Tiffany Moore Raul Longoria Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Nyeka Arnold (Vice Chair) Cassandra Medrano Ebonie Oliver JoAnne Ortiz Sonia Martinez Taniquewa Brewster Valerie Menard Board Members/Commissioners Absent: Tisha-Vonique Hood Staff Members in Attendance: Angel Zambrano Lorena Lopez Chavarin (Remotely) Miguel Lopez Nefertitti Jackmon CALL TO ORDER Chair Elias called the meeting to order at 6:41 PM 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. Susana Almanza provided public comment. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the CDC Regular meeting on March 10th, 2026. Postponement for the next meeting. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) activities and outcomes. Presentation by Angel Zambrano, Program Manager III, Austin Public Health. The presentation was made by Angel Zambrano, Program Manager III, Austin Public Health. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation on the Public Hearing on Needs Assessment for Annual Action Plan. Presentation by Veronica Samo, Public Information and Marketing Program Manager, and Julie Smith, Community Engagement Specialist, Austin Housing. The presentation was made by Miguel Lopez, Planner I, Austin Housing. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and possible action on the Neighborhood Services Unit’s mission statement. 4. Presentation by Angel Zambrano, Program Manager III, Austin Public Health. 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 by calling 512-974-1606 at least 2 days prior to the meeting date. TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Community Development Commission, please contact Edward Blake at 512-974-3108. CDC Commissioners may contact CTM for email/technology assistance: 512-974-4357. The following amendment was made by Vice Chair Arnold and seconded by Commissioner Jaso. The amendment was to revise the section to state: “The Neighborhood Services Unit aims to improve the lives and …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE AUSTIN INTEGRATED WATER RESOURCE PLANNING COMMUNITY TASK FORCE TUESDAY, April 14, 2026, AT 12 P.M. WALLER CREEK CENTER, ROOM 104 625 EAST 10TH STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Austin Integrated Water Resource Planning Community (Water Forward) Task Force 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 remotely, contact Emily Rafferty, Emily.rafferty@austintexas.gov. telephone. To to speak register CURRENT TASK FORCE MEMBERS: Jennifer Walker, Chair Robert Mace, Vice Chair Paul DiFiore Hani Michel Madelline Mathis Todd Bartee Perry Lorenz Sarah Faust Leah Martinsson AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Austin Integrated Water Resource Planning Community Task Force Regular Called meeting on December 9, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. 4. Staff briefing regarding Lower Colorado River and Highland Lakes water supply conditions. Presentation by Emily Rafferty, Program Manager, Austin Water. Staff briefing regarding CY25 Q4 Water Management Strategy (WMS) Implementation Report. Presentation by Kevin Kluge, Water Conservation Division Manager, Austin Water. Staff briefing regarding Aquifer Storage and Recovery and Brackish Groundwater Desalination Field Testing and Community Engagement plan. Presentation by Marisa Flores Gonzalez, Water Resources Team Supervisor, and Emlea Chanslor, Chief of Staff, Austin Water. 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 Emily Rafferty at Austin Water Department, at 512-972-0427 or Emily.rafferty@austintexas.gov, to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Austin Integrated Water Resource Planning Community Task Force, please contact Emily Rafferty at 512-972-0427 or Emily.rafferty@austintexas.gov.
Update on Lower Colorado River and Highland Lakes water supply conditions Austin Water | Water Forward Task Force Meeting | April 14, 2026 Highland Lakes Inflows 2 Lakes Buchanan & Travis Combined Storage 3 U.S. Drought Monitor 4 NOAA 3-month Outlook: May – July The seasonal outlooks combine long-term trends, soil moisture, and El Nino/Southern Oscillation. 5 NOAA El Niño/Southern Oscillation Forecast ENSO-neutral conditions are present and are favored through April-June 2026 (80% chance). In May-July 2026, El Niño is likely to emerge (61% chance) and persist through at least the end of 2026. 6 Lakes Buchanan & Travis Combined Storage Projections 7 Questions? 8
Aquifer Storage and Recovery and Brackish Groundwater Field Testing and Community Engagement Austin Water | 4/14/2026 Agenda Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) & Brackish Groundwater Desalination Field Testing Current Status Contracting Pathways Preliminary Activities Overview Field Testing and Drilling Overview 2026 Community Engagement Strategy Next Steps 2 ASR and Brackish Current Status Early Site Planning AW is considering several City-owned properties in eastern Travis County for potential test well sites AW is working closely with other City departments to collaborate on plans for City- owned land 3 Contracting Pathway: Two-Scope Approach Scope 1 – Preliminary Activities Covers early desktop study updates, environmental and cultural analyses, and permitting activities Does not include test well drilling Will use existing allocated funds Can be approved administratively by City staff Scope 2 – Field Testing & Drilling Covers test well drilling, sample collection, laboratory testing, and brackish evaluation Will require City Council action, anticipated in May, to authorize additional funding for expanded scope 4 Preliminary Activities Overview Analysis of Project Locations in Travis County A more detailed hydrogeological desktop study of potential project locations in Travis County Environmental Desktop Study Will identify environmental constraints and outline permitting needs at potential well sites Test-Well Site Selection Timeline Using results from the hydrogeological and environmental analyses, we will advance toward selecting specific test well locations Current draft schedule: complete test well site selection by Fall 2026 Ongoing Interdepartmental Coordination Coordination with City departments will continue throughout Phase 1B kickoff and test well site selection 5 Field Testing and Drilling Overview Field testing will include: Exploratory test wells drilled at two potential locations (Trinity-Hosston aquifer formations) Pump tests, geophysical logging, water quality analysis, and geochemical compatibility studies Coordination with environmental, permitting, and cultural resource requirements Test wells converted into long-term monitoring installations Preliminary Timeline Fall 2026: Test well design, environmental, and permitting tasks Spring 2027: Test well drilling, sample collection, and laboratory analysis Spring 2028: Complete Phase 1B plan report, start Phase 2 ASR pilot well design, and prepare for TCEQ ASR pilot authorization 6 Community Engagement Purpose Raise Awareness: Help secure Austin’s water future and raise awareness about AW water supply projects, including Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) and …
Water Forward 2024 Implementation Working Group Meeting Draft Notes March 10, 2026 Teams Meeting, 12:00 pm Attendees: Paul DiFiore, WFTF Perry Lorenz, WFTF Marisa Flores Gonzalez, Austin Water Daniel Cavazos, Austin Water Jennifer Walker, WFTF Katherine Jashinski, Austin Water Emily Rafferty, Austin Water Water Forward 2024 Water Conservation Strategies Update Daniel Cavazos provided an update on the following water conservation activities: - 1,600 new residential automatic irrigation systems have been inspected since October of 2024. - Over 30 million gallons were saved through participation in rebate programs in 2025. - A position was added to focus on addressing water loss. Task Force Member Paul DiFiore asked about the structure of rebate programs, and the amount that is spent on rebate programs. Daniel Cavasos explained the key differences between the structure of residential vs commercial rebates and is planning on following up about the cost that goes into rebate programs. Water Forward 2024 Water Reuse Update Katherine Jashinski provided an update on water reuse activities highlighted in the Q4 Water Management Strategy Implementation Report. Katherine shared that a construction contract for the West Riverside Reclaimed water main project was advertised. AW held a webinar for their newly published Onsite Water Reuse System Operator Training Manual and certificate program. The training manual is free and available to the public for anyone who wants to study it and pursue the certificate. Task Force Member Paul DiFiore asked about the rate structure for reclaimed water. Katherine Jashinski shared that there are a few groups of rates. There was a new Onsite Water Reuse project that came through at the end of Q4. There were no new incentives issued in Q4 but there are some new reclaimed water projects that will be eligible to submit applications for incentives. Two new reclaimed ready projects were approved for fee in lieu in Q4. Task Force Member Paul DiFiore asked about the fee in lieu process and Katherine shared that it means the developer paid a cost in lieu of installing their own onsite water reuse system and their plumbing is set up to connect to the centralized reclaimed system if the system reaches them in the future. Katherine also shared that the fee in lieu option only applies to multifamily units who are eligible. A new large scale wastewater mining project is set to start commercial operation soon. The first affordable and multifamily unit to use reclaimed …
Water Management Strategy Implementation REPORT Fourth Quarter 2025, October - December February 2026 Contents Fourth Quarter Summary Water Conservation Updates Water Loss Reduction Updates Reclaimed Water and Onsite Reuse Updates Conservation Outreach Updates Water Supply Project Updates Water Use and GPCD Notes Regarding Data 2 Fourth Quarter Summary The Water Management Strategy Implementation Report is intended to provide transparency and accountability regarding the execution of strategies from the 2024 Water Conservation Plan and the 2024 Water Forward Plan. The plans include proactive and substantial demand management strategies and innovative local supply strategies, but the hard work necessary to complete the strategies and meet the goals are illustrated in the implementation reports. While the combined water storage in Lakes Buchanan and Travis stayed about 80 percent full throughout the fourth quarter of 2025, Central Texas entered moderate and severe levels of hydrologic drought and remained throughout the quarter. These dry conditions resulted in summer-like water use levels in October before lessening in November. 3 Water Conservation Updates Annual WaterWise Irrigation Program seminar was held on November 6, 2025. Over 130 irrigators and landscapers attended the seminar to learn about landscaping and irrigation. Irrigation inspection anniversary – since October 2024, 1,600 new residential automatic irrigation systems have been inspected to meet State and Austin regulations, providing more efficient and effective landscape irrigation. In 2025, customers saved over 30 million gallons from rebate programs, the highest in 5 years. 4 Water Conservation Metrics Residential Rebate Programs Approved Rebates 50 45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 Drought Survival Tools Irrigation Upgrades Rainwater Harvesting Rebates WaterWise Landscape WaterWise Rainscape Other Residential Programs Q4 2024-Q3 2025 Q4 2025 5 Water Conservation Metrics Commercial Rebate Programs Approved Rebates 5 4 3 2 1 0 4 4 3 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 Bucks for Business Other Commercial Programs Q4 2024-Q3 2025 Q4 2025 6 Water Conservation Metrics Compliance Assessments Number of Compliant Commercial Facilities 86% 3,500 3,000 2,500 2,000 1,500 1,000 500 0 Number of Compliant Commercial Facilities 85% 96% 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 Landscape Irrigation Assessment Cooling Tower Assessment Vehicle Wash Assessment Q4 2024-Q3 2025 Q4 2025 Q4 2024-Q3 2025 Q4 2025 7 Water Conservation Strategy Milestones (Water Conservation Plan, p. 35-36, Water Forward Plan, p. 34, 36) 2025 Milestones Commercial Incentives Progress Pilot an …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE AFRICAN AMERICAN RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2026, AT 5:30 PM AFRICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL AND HERITAGE FACILITY 912 E 11th STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the African American 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, contact Nekaybaw Watson, 512-974-2562, nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Alexandria Anderson, Chair Roger Davis Dr. Chiquita Eugene Kyron Hayes Antony Jackson Kenneth Loyde Mueni Rudd Emmy Weisberg AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Justin Parsons, Vice Chair Sophia Dozier Joi Harden Daryl Horton Nelson Linder Antonio Ross Greg Smith 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 African American Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on April 7, 2026. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the support and funding of American Gateways in the FY 2026- 2027 Budget 3. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the support and funding of the Career, Research, Learning and Development Institute (CARLDI) in the FY 2026-2027 budget. 4. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the funding for social services in the FY 2026- 2027 Budget. 5. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the support and funding for Mama Sana Vibrant Woman in the FY 2026-2027 Budget. 6. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the support and funding of an Austin Multicultural STEM Symposium in the FY 2026-2027 Budget. 7. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the support and funding for Voting Accessibility in the FY 2026-2027 Budget. 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 at Austin City Clerk’s Office Department, …
AFRICAN AMERICAN RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2026 The African American Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at the Permitting and Development Center Room 1401. Chair Horton called the African American Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 5:37 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Daryl Horton, Chair Dr. Chiquita Eugene, Vice Chair Alexandria Anderson Roger Davis Sophia Dozier Nelson Linder Justin Parsons Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Kyron Hayes Mueni Rudd Greg Smith Commissioners Absent: Joi Harden Antony Jackson Kenneth Loyde Antonio Ross Emmy Goss-Weisberg PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. 1 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the African American Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on February 3, 2026. The minutes from the meeting of February 3, 2026, were approved on Commissioner Parsons’ motion, Commissioner Davis’ second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Smith was off dais. Commissioners Harden, Jackson, Loyde, Ross and Weisberg were absent. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff Briefing on Social Service Contract funding to inform the Commission’s prioritization efforts. Briefing by Kerri Lang, Director, and Daniel Culotta, Assistant Director, Office of Budget & Organizational Excellence. Presentation given by Kerri Lang, Director, Office of Budget and Organizational Excellence. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. Presentation from the Office of the County Clerk regarding election demographics information for primary elections in Austin. Presentation by Dyana Limon-Mercado, Travis County Clerk, Office of the County Clerk. Presentation given by Dyana Limon-Mercado, Travis County Clerk, Office of the City Clerk and John Lawler, Chief Deputy of Elections, Office of the County Clerk, and Victoria Hinojosa, Director of Electoral Affairs, Office of the County Clerk. Discussion regarding FY 26/27 recommendations. Discussed. Board roles and responsibilities. Discussed. Discussion regarding possible bylaws changes. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. 8. Approve the election of Chair. The motion to approve Commissioner Anderson as Chair of the African American Resource Advisory Commission was approved on Commissioner Parsons’ motion, Vice Chair Eugene’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Rudd and Smith were off dais. Commissioners Harden, Jackson, Loyde, Ross and Weisberg were absent. Approve the election of Vice Chair. The motion to approve Commissioner Parsons as Vice Chair of the African American Resource Advisory Commission was approved on Commissioner Anderson’s motion, Vice Chair Eugene’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Rudd and Smith were off dais. Commissioners Harden, Jackson, Loyde, Ross and Weisberg were absent. 2 FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL African American Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20260414-002: Support of American Gateways in the FY 2026-2027 Budget Date of Approval: Fund American Gateways at their Full Year 2026 request of $750,000 total ($570,000 core + $150,000 supplemental). Description of Recommendation to Council: We recommend the City Council maintain American Gateways’ funding at current levels. A cut could result in the loss of a staff member and significantly reduce capacity to meet the community’s growing need for immigration legal services. Currently, American Gateways receives more than 100 requests per week from individuals and families seeking legal guidance, support, and advocacy. American Gateways is one of the only organizations in the region providing immigration legal services grounded in a pro se (self-help) model, with additional support including "Know Your Rights" sessions and family planning services. They deliver critical legal and educational support that ensures immigrants, particularly those most at risk, including Black immigrants, can safely navigate the immigration system. Rationale: ● Crucial, Irreplaceable Services: American Gateways is one of the only providers in Austin offering free and low-cost immigration legal services to vulnerable populations. ● High Demand: Weekly requests for help exceed 100, showing the overwhelming demand for legal advocacy and information. ● Disproportionate Impact on Black Immigrants: Black immigrants face compounded barriers due to racial and immigration enforcement systems. Funding American Gateways helps mitigate these harms. ● Proactive, Scalable Approach: Their hybrid model—offering both direct services and legal education—maximizes reach and efficiency. Alignment with AARAC Mission/Vision/Values: This funding directly supports AARAC’s mission to advance racial equity in Austin by preserving essential services for immigrant communities, particularly Black immigrants. American Gateways provides culturally responsive, community-driven legal support that aligns with AARAC’s vision of justice, empowerment, and sustained local oversight. Defunding would compromise immigrant safety and contradict our shared values of equity, access, and accountability. Seconded By: Motioned By: Vote: For: Against: Abstain: Off the dais: Absent: Attest: __________________________________
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL African American Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20260414-003: Support the Career, Research, Learning and Development Institute in the FY 2026-2027 Budget. Date of Approval: Recommendation: Fund CARLDI full year ask of $190,000 Description of Recommendation to Council: The African American Resource Advisory Commission strongly urges the Austin City Council to include new, dedicated funding in the FY 2026–2027 budget to fully support the annual operating expenses of Career, Research, Learning and Development Institute (CARLDI). This sustained investment is essential to advancing equity for African Immigrant seniors in Austin. Without reliable funding, critical services that reduce social isolation, improve physical and mental health outcomes, and address longstanding economic disparities are placed at risk. CARLDI provides more than programming; it fosters belonging, dignity, and intergenerational connection. Investing in this organization ensures that seniors will unlock the skills needed to actively integrate, their lived experiences are recognized as community assets and will strengthen families and neighborhoods across Austin. This funding represents a tangible commitment to health equity, cultural preservation, and the well-being of a newly elderly population of our city. Rationale: ● ESL and Citizenship Education ○ Understand and navigate U.S. systems. Improve English language use, financial literacy and digital skills. ● Health Education ○ Access health care and public benefits such as CAN, CPR, etc ● Employment Opportunities ○ Re-enter the workforce or contribute through mentoring and community leadership. ● Mental and Physical Wellbeing ○ Build social connections that reduce isolation and improve well-being. Alignment with AARAC Mission/Vision/Values: This funding directly supports AARAC’s mission to advance racial equity in Austin by preserving essential services for immigrant communities, particularly Black immigrants. CARLDI’s work directly advances AARAC’s advisory priorities of equitable aging and economic inclusion by expanding access to culturally responsive programs and services for Austin’s rapidly growing Black immigrant community. Seconded By: Motioned By: Vote: For: Against: Abstain: Off the dais: Absent: Attest: __________________________________
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL African American Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20260414-004: Funding for social services in the FY 2026-2027 Budget. Date of Approval: Recommendation: Maintain current funding levels for social service contracts in the upcoming fiscal year (FY26) and avoid further reductions. General ask to maintain funding for organizations like: ● Alliance for African American Health in Central Texas ● African-American Men's Health Clinic ● Austin Urban Technology Movement (AutmHQ) Description of Recommendation to Council: We recommend the City Council maintain funding for city social service contracts at current levels and avoid any additional cuts. Many of these organizations that currently hold city contracts deliver crucial services to some of our most vulnerable populations. As the commission charged with advising the city council on matters related to the quality of life of Austin’s African American residents, it is imperative that we continue to fund the resources these organizations need to sustain the impact they are making in our community. Additional cuts will most certainly result in a significant reduction of capacity to meet the community’s growing needs. Preserving these investments is essential to sustaining core community services, preventing cost escalation in other public systems, and protecting vulnerable populations during continued economic uncertainty. Rationale: ● Social service contracts are cost-avoidance tools, not discretionary spending These contracts reduce demand on higher-cost public systems such as emergency medical care, law enforcement, child welfare, and homelessness response. Cuts to preventive and stabilization services often result in greater downstream expenditures that exceed any short-term budget savings. ● Contract stability protects service continuity and workforce retention Maintaining funding ensures continuity of care for clients and reduces turnover among trained service professionals. Workforce instability leads to service disruptions, increased onboarding costs, and reduced program effectiveness. ● Demand for services remains elevated Economic pressures, housing instability, public health impacts, and demographic shifts continue to drive demand for social services. Reducing funding at this time would widen service gaps and increase unmet needs in the community. Alignment with AARAC Mission/Vision/Values: This 10% reduction is impacting numerous organizations that provide services to Austin’s African American community, thereby directly affecting the quality of life. Whether it's workforce training programs through Austin Economic Development or preventative health care screenings from Austin Public Health, the over $5 million being cut from social service contracts continues to perpetuate the disparities experienced by the community this commission represents. The African American Resource Advisory Commission has …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL African American Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20260414-005: Support of Mama Sana Vibrant Woman in the FY 2026- 2027 Budget. Date of Approval: Recommendation: Maintain full funding for Mama Sana Vibrant Woman at FY26 levels ($900,000), including maternal health and perinatal housing stabilization services. Restore rental assistance support to at least prior-year levels to prevent further erosion of critical care infrastructure. Description of Recommendation to Council: Mama Sana Vibrant Woman (MSVW) has been a long-standing partner with the City of Austin since 2016, providing culturally responsive maternal health care to Black and Latinx communities. Despite the growing need and the rising cost of living in Central Texas, funding for MSVW’s maternal health services was reduced by 10% in FY26, and their rental assistance support was fully eliminated. We urge the City Council to restore and maintain prior funding levels—$900,000 total ($500,000 for housing stabilization and $400,000 for maternal health). This is not a request for expansion; it is a stabilization measure aimed at preventing family displacement, maternal health deterioration, and downstream public costs. In 2025 alone, MSVW: ● Served 218 households ● Supported 477 children ● Distributed $666,759 in rental assistance, directly preventing eviction and promoting safe postpartum recovery. Rationale: ● Housing Stability Is Health Care: Research confirms that housing instability during pregnancy increases rates of low birth weight, preterm delivery, maternal mental health issues, and NICU admissions. The data is clear: stable housing improves health outcomes. ● Equity-Focused Intervention: Black and Latinx mothers in Austin experience disproportionate maternal morbidity and housing insecurity. MSVW’s services directly counteract those disparities. ● Preventing Crisis-Level Gaps: Without restored funding, service reductions will lead to longer waitlists, decreased rental support, reduced follow-up, and more families falling through the cracks at a vulnerable life stage. ● Proven Partnership with the City: MSVW has a strong track record of responsibly administering City funds, effectively collaborating with sister organizations, and responding quickly to emerging community needs. ● Preserving Multi-Organizational Capacity: MSVW’s housing stabilization program also supports six other maternal health organizations. Without restored funding, citywide perinatal care infrastructure will fragment. Alignment with AARAC Mission/Vision/Values: MSVW’s work directly furthers AARAC’s goals of racial equity, family support, and displacement prevention. Their programs help keep Black and Latinx mothers housed, healthy, and connected to culturally competent care, ensuring a just and inclusive Austin. To cut funding now would undermine years of progress and contradict the City’s public …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL African American Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20260414-006: Support and funding of a Multicultural STEM Symposium in the FY 2026-2027 Budget. Date of Approval: Description of Recommendation to Council: Subject: Recommendation on the FY 2027 Budget related to Austin Multicultural STEM Symposium Recommendation To Council: WHEREAS, the City of Austin has experienced sustained economic growth driven in part by the expansion of the technology sector, supported through public incentives, tax benefits, and partnerships intended to strengthen the local economy and workforce; and WHEREAS, this growth has coincided with significant gentrification pressures that have disproportionately impacted marginalized communities, particularly Black residents, resulting in displacement and migration to the outer edges of the city; and WHEREAS, Black residents in Austin remain underrepresented in the technology workforce relative to the City’s overall population and continue to face historic barriers to STEM education access, workforce pipelines, and capital investment; and WHEREAS, while economic development efforts have focused on attracting and retaining technology companies, many communities lack early exposure, culturally relevant engagement, and structured pathways into STEM and technology related careers; and WHEREAS, early, age appropriate exposure to STEM learning and diverse career role models is a critical factor in building long term educational, economic, and workforce equity; and WHEREAS, Mayor Kirk Watson’s Gen ATX initiative prioritizes making Austin the best place to be a kid, with pillars centered on healthy kids, safe kids, and happy and successful kids, including fostering a sense of belonging and access to opportunity; and WHEREAS, inclusive, community rooted STEM programming directly supports these goals by connecting youth and families to educational resources, career pathways, and local employers in trusted and accessible environments; THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Austin allocate $250,000 in the FY 2027 budget directly to the Office of Equity and Inclusion for the sole purpose of planning, convening, and executing the inaugural Austin Multicultural STEM Symposium as a city sponsored, publicly accessible initiative advancing equitable access to STEM pathways; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Office of Equity and Inclusion establish and lead a cross departmental working group responsible for the planning, coordination, and execution of the Austin Multicultural STEM Symposium, including program design, nonprofit coordination, corporate engagement, logistics, outreach, community engagement, and evaluation, to ensure clear accountability and measurable impact; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Office of Equity and Inclusion formally partner with Universal Tech Movement, under …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL African American Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20260414-007: Support and funding for Voting Accessibility in the FY 2026-2027 Budget. Date of Approval: Description of Recommendation to Council: Subject: Recommendation on the FY 2027 Budget related to Voting Accessibility Recommendation To Council: WHEREAS, civic participation through voting is a foundational element of United States democracy and a critical component of community trust, representation, and collective decision- making; and WHEREAS, voter turnout data in Travis County indicates that even in high-participation elections, a significant portion of eligible voters do not cast ballots, with participation rates commonly ranging between approximately 50 and 60 percent, signaling persistent barriers to access rather than lack of civic interest; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin and Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority (CapMetro) have previously partnered to offer free public transit on Election Day to reduce transportation barriers for voters; and WHEREAS, many residents—particularly those working hourly, shift-based, frontline, or service- sector roles—rely on early voting periods to participate in elections due to limited schedule flexibility, caregiving responsibilities, disability considerations, and financial constraints; and WHEREAS, limiting free transit access to a single Election Day does not equitably serve voters who depend on early voting opportunities but may lack reliable or affordable transportation during those periods; and WHEREAS, extending free public transit to include all city-observed early voting days would meaningfully expand access, reduce cost and time barriers, and provide voters with the flexibility needed to participate in the democratic process; and WHEREAS, a defining characteristic of Austin is its commitment to community-centered solutions and partnerships with trusted local institutions that strengthen civic life and democratic participation; and WHEREAS, trusted community institutions such as churches, nonprofit organizations, and neighborhood-based groups often maintain existing transportation resources, including buses and vans, and have established relationships that allow them to support community members in safe, coordinated, and familiar ways; and WHEREAS, structured, organization-led transportation support on official Election Day can address last-mile and same-day accessibility challenges while providing meaningful opportunities for community partners to engage directly in supporting democratic participation; THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Austin support and explore a partnership with CapMetro to extend free public transit access beyond Election Day to include all city- observed early voting periods and official voting hours, ensuring equitable transportation access for residents who rely on early voting opportunities; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this expanded public transit access …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL African American Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20260414-002: Support of American Gateways in the FY 2026-2027 Budget Date of Approval: April 14, 2026 Fund American Gateways at their Full Year 2026 request of $750,000 total ($570,000 core + $150,000 supplemental). Description of Recommendation to Council: We recommend the City Council maintain American Gateways’ funding at current levels. A cut could result in the loss of a staff member and significantly reduce capacity to meet the community’s growing need for immigration legal services. Currently, American Gateways receives more than 100 requests per week from individuals and families seeking legal guidance, support, and advocacy. American Gateways is one of the only organizations in the region providing immigration legal services grounded in a pro se (self-help) model, with additional support including "Know Your Rights" sessions and family planning services. They deliver critical legal and educational support that ensures immigrants, particularly those most at risk, including Black immigrants, can safely navigate the immigration system. Rationale: ● Crucial, Irreplaceable Services: American Gateways is one of the only providers in Austin offering free and low-cost immigration legal services to vulnerable populations. ● High Demand: Weekly requests for help exceed 100, showing the overwhelming demand for legal advocacy and information. ● Disproportionate Impact on Black Immigrants: Black immigrants face compounded barriers due to racial and immigration enforcement systems. Funding American Gateways helps mitigate these harms. ● Proactive, Scalable Approach: Their hybrid model—offering both direct services and legal education—maximizes reach and efficiency. Alignment with AARAC Mission/Vision/Values: This funding directly supports AARAC’s mission to advance racial equity in Austin by preserving essential services for immigrant communities, particularly Black immigrants. American Gateways provides culturally responsive, community-driven legal support that aligns with AARAC’s vision of justice, empowerment, and sustained local oversight. Defunding would compromise immigrant safety and contradict our shared values of equity, access, and accountability. Motioned By: Vice Chair Parsons Seconded By: Commissioner Dozier Vote: 9-0 For: Chair Anderson, Vice Chair Parsons, Commissioners Davis, Dozier, Harden, Hayes, Linder, Rudd, Smith Absent: Commissioners Eugene, Horton, Jackson, Loyde, Ross, and Weisberg Attest: Nekaybaw Watson, Staff Liaison
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL African American Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20260414-003: Support the Career, Research, Learning and Development Institute in the FY 2026-2027 Budget. Date of Approval: April 14, 2026 Recommendation: Fund CARLDI full year ask of $190,000 Description of Recommendation to Council: The African American Resource Advisory Commission strongly urges the Austin City Council to include new, dedicated funding in the FY 2026–2027 budget to fully support the annual operating expenses of Career, Research, Learning and Development Institute (CARLDI). This sustained investment is essential to advancing equity for African Immigrant seniors in Austin. Without reliable funding, critical services that reduce social isolation, improve physical and mental health outcomes, and address longstanding economic disparities are placed at risk. CARLDI provides more than programming; it fosters belonging, dignity, and intergenerational connection. Investing in this organization ensures that seniors will unlock the skills needed to actively integrate, their lived experiences are recognized as community assets and will strengthen families and neighborhoods across Austin. This funding represents a tangible commitment to health equity, cultural preservation, and the well-being of a newly elderly population of our city. Rationale: ● ESL and Citizenship Education ○ Understand and navigate U.S. systems. Improve English language use, financial literacy and digital skills. ● Health Education ○ Access health care and public benefits such as CAN, CPR, etc ● Employment Opportunities ○ Re-enter the workforce or contribute through mentoring and community leadership. ● Mental and Physical Wellbeing ○ Build social connections that reduce isolation and improve well-being. Alignment with AARAC Mission/Vision/Values: This funding directly supports AARAC’s mission to advance racial equity in Austin by preserving essential services for immigrant communities, particularly Black immigrants. CARLDI’s work directly advances AARAC’s advisory priorities of equitable aging and economic inclusion by expanding access to culturally responsive programs and services for Austin’s rapidly growing Black immigrant community. Motioned By: Commissioner Dozier Seconded By: Commissioner Davis Vote: 9-0 For: Chair Anderson, Vice Chair Parsons, Commissioners Davis, Dozier, Harden, Hayes, Linder, Rudd, Smith Absent: Commissioners Eugene, Horton, Jackson, Loyde, Ross, and Weisberg Attest: Nekaybaw Watson, Staff Liaison
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL African American Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20260414-004: Funding for social services in the FY 2026-2027 Budget. Date of Approval: April 14, 2026 Recommendation: Maintain current funding levels for social service contracts in the upcoming fiscal year (FY26) and avoid further reductions. General ask to maintain funding for organizations like: ● Alliance for African American Health in Central Texas ● African-American Men's Health Clinic ● Austin Urban Technology Movement (AutmHQ) Description of Recommendation to Council: We recommend the City Council maintain funding for city social service contracts at current levels and avoid any additional cuts. Many of these organizations that currently hold city contracts deliver crucial services to some of our most vulnerable populations. As the commission charged with advising the city council on matters related to the quality of life of Austin’s African American residents, it is imperative that we continue to fund the resources these organizations need to sustain the impact they are making in our community. Additional cuts will most certainly result in a significant reduction of capacity to meet the community’s growing needs. Preserving these investments is essential to sustaining core community services, preventing cost escalation in other public systems, and protecting vulnerable populations during continued economic uncertainty. Rationale: ● Social service contracts are cost-avoidance tools, not discretionary spending These contracts reduce demand on higher-cost public systems such as emergency medical care, law enforcement, child welfare, and homelessness response. Cuts to preventive and stabilization services often result in greater downstream expenditures that exceed any short-term budget savings. ● Contract stability protects service continuity and workforce retention Maintaining funding ensures continuity of care for clients and reduces turnover among trained service professionals. Workforce instability leads to service disruptions, increased onboarding costs, and reduced program effectiveness. ● Demand for services remains elevated Economic pressures, housing instability, public health impacts, and demographic shifts continue to drive demand for social services. Reducing funding at this time would widen service gaps and increase unmet needs in the community. Alignment with AARAC Mission/Vision/Values: This 10% reduction is impacting numerous organizations that provide services to Austin’s African American community, thereby directly affecting the quality of life. Whether it's workforce training programs through Austin Economic Development or preventative health care screenings from Austin Public Health, the over $5 million being cut from social service contracts continues to perpetuate the disparities experienced by the community this commission represents. The African American Resource …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL African American Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20260414-005: Support of Mama Sana Vibrant Woman in the FY 2026- 2027 Budget. Date of Approval: April 14, 2026 Recommendation: Maintain full funding for Mama Sana Vibrant Woman at FY26 levels ($900,000), including maternal health and perinatal housing stabilization services. Restore rental assistance support to at least prior-year levels to prevent further erosion of critical care infrastructure. Description of Recommendation to Council: Mama Sana Vibrant Woman (MSVW) has been a long-standing partner with the City of Austin since 2016, providing culturally responsive maternal health care to Black and Latinx communities. Despite the growing need and the rising cost of living in Central Texas, funding for MSVW’s maternal health services was reduced by 10% in FY26, and their rental assistance support was fully eliminated. We urge the City Council to restore and maintain prior funding levels—$900,000 total ($500,000 for housing stabilization and $400,000 for maternal health). This is not a request for expansion; it is a stabilization measure aimed at preventing family displacement, maternal health deterioration, and downstream public costs. In 2025 alone, MSVW: ● Served 218 households ● Supported 477 children ● Distributed $666,759 in rental assistance, directly preventing eviction and promoting safe postpartum recovery. Rationale: ● Housing Stability Is Health Care: Research confirms that housing instability during pregnancy increases rates of low birth weight, preterm delivery, maternal mental health issues, and NICU admissions. The data is clear: stable housing improves health outcomes. ● Equity-Focused Intervention: Black and Latinx mothers in Austin experience disproportionate maternal morbidity and housing insecurity. MSVW’s services directly counteract those disparities. ● Preventing Crisis-Level Gaps: Without restored funding, service reductions will lead to longer waitlists, decreased rental support, reduced follow-up, and more families falling through the cracks at a vulnerable life stage. ● Proven Partnership with the City: MSVW has a strong track record of responsibly administering City funds, effectively collaborating with sister organizations, and responding quickly to emerging community needs. ● Preserving Multi-Organizational Capacity: MSVW’s housing stabilization program also supports six other maternal health organizations. Without restored funding, citywide perinatal care infrastructure will fragment. Alignment with AARAC Mission/Vision/Values: MSVW’s work directly furthers AARAC’s goals of racial equity, family support, and displacement prevention. Their programs help keep Black and Latinx mothers housed, healthy, and connected to culturally competent care, ensuring a just and inclusive Austin. To cut funding now would undermine years of progress and contradict …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL African American Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20260414-006: Support and funding of a Multicultural STEM Symposium in the FY 2026-2027 Budget. Date of Approval: April 14, 2026 Description of Recommendation to Council: Subject: Recommendation on the FY 2027 Budget related to Austin Multicultural STEM Symposium Recommendation To Council: WHEREAS, the City of Austin has experienced sustained economic growth driven in part by the expansion of the technology sector, supported through public incentives, tax benefits, and partnerships intended to strengthen the local economy and workforce; and WHEREAS, this growth has coincided with significant gentrification pressures that have disproportionately impacted marginalized communities, particularly Black residents, resulting in displacement and migration to the outer edges of the city; and WHEREAS, Black residents in Austin remain underrepresented in the technology workforce relative to the City’s overall population and continue to face historic barriers to STEM education access, workforce pipelines, and capital investment; and WHEREAS, while economic development efforts have focused on attracting and retaining technology companies, many communities lack early exposure, culturally relevant engagement, and structured pathways into STEM and technology related careers; and WHEREAS, early, age appropriate exposure to STEM learning and diverse career role models is a critical factor in building long term educational, economic, and workforce equity; and WHEREAS, Mayor Kirk Watson’s Gen ATX initiative prioritizes making Austin the best place to be a kid, with pillars centered on healthy kids, safe kids, and happy and successful kids, including fostering a sense of belonging and access to opportunity; and WHEREAS, inclusive, community rooted STEM programming directly supports these goals by connecting youth and families to educational resources, career pathways, and local employers in trusted and accessible environments; THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Austin allocate $250,000 in the FY 2027 budget directly to the Office of Equity and Inclusion for the sole purpose of planning, convening, and executing the inaugural Austin Multicultural STEM Symposium as a city sponsored, publicly accessible initiative advancing equitable access to STEM pathways; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Office of Equity and Inclusion establish and lead a cross departmental working group responsible for the planning, coordination, and execution of the Austin Multicultural STEM Symposium, including program design, nonprofit coordination, corporate engagement, logistics, outreach, community engagement, and evaluation, to ensure clear accountability and measurable impact; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Office of Equity and Inclusion formally partner with Universal …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL African American Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20260414-007: Support and funding for Voting Accessibility in the FY 2026-2027 Budget. Date of Approval: April 14, 2026 Description of Recommendation to Council: Subject: Recommendation on the FY 2027 Budget related to Voting Accessibility Recommendation To Council: WHEREAS, civic participation through voting is a foundational element of United States democracy and a critical component of community trust, representation, and collective decision- making; and WHEREAS, voter turnout data in Travis County indicates that even in high-participation elections, a significant portion of eligible voters do not cast ballots, with participation rates commonly ranging between approximately 50 and 60 percent, signaling persistent barriers to access rather than lack of civic interest; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin and Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority (CapMetro) have previously partnered to offer free public transit on Election Day to reduce transportation barriers for voters; and WHEREAS, many residents—particularly those working hourly, shift-based, frontline, or service- sector roles—rely on early voting periods to participate in elections due to limited schedule flexibility, caregiving responsibilities, disability considerations, and financial constraints; and WHEREAS, limiting free transit access to a single Election Day does not equitably serve voters who depend on early voting opportunities but may lack reliable or affordable transportation during those periods; and WHEREAS, extending free public transit to include all city-observed early voting days would meaningfully expand access, reduce cost and time barriers, and provide voters with the flexibility needed to participate in the democratic process; and WHEREAS, a defining characteristic of Austin is its commitment to community-centered solutions and partnerships with trusted local institutions that strengthen civic life and democratic participation; and WHEREAS, trusted community institutions such as churches, nonprofit organizations, and neighborhood-based groups often maintain existing transportation resources, including buses and vans, and have established relationships that allow them to support community members in safe, coordinated, and familiar ways; and WHEREAS, structured, organization-led transportation support on official Election Day can address last-mile and same-day accessibility challenges while providing meaningful opportunities for community partners to engage directly in supporting democratic participation; THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Austin support and explore a partnership with CapMetro to extend free public transit access beyond Election Day to include all city- observed early voting periods and official voting hours, ensuring equitable transportation access for residents who rely on early voting opportunities; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this expanded …
AFRICAN AMERICAN RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2026 The African American Resource Advisory Commission convened in a special called meeting on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at the African American Cultural and Heritage Facility. Chair Anderson called the African American Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Alexandria Anderson, Chair Justin Parsons, Vice Chair Roger Davis Nelson Linder Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Sophia Dozier Joi Harden Kyron Hayes Mueni Rudd Greg Smith Commissioners Absent: Dr. Chiquita Eugene Daryl Horton Antony Jackson Kenneth Loyde Antonio Ross Emmy Goss Weisberg PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. 1 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the African American Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on April 7, 2026. The minutes from the meeting of April 7, 2026, were approved on Commissioner Davis’ motion, Vice Chair Parsons’ second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Eugene, Horton, Jackson, Loyde, Ross, and Goss Weisberg were absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the support and funding of American Gateways in the FY 2026-2027 Budget. The motion to approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the support and funding of American Gateways in the FY 2026-2027 Budget was approved on Vice Chair Parsons’ motion, Commissioner Dozier’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Eugene, Horton, Jackson, Loyde, Ross, and Goss Weisberg were absent. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the support and funding of the Career, Research, Learning and Development Institute (CARLDI) in the FY 2026-2027 budget. The motion to approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the support and funding of the Career, Research, Learning and Development Institute (CARLDI) in the FY 2026- 2027 budget was approved on Commissioner Dozier’s motion, Commissioner Davis’ second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Eugene, Horton, Jackson, Loyde, Ross, and Goss Weisberg were absent. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding social services in the FY 2026-2027 Budget. The motion to approve a Recommendation to Council regarding social services in the FY 2026-2027 budget was approved on Commissioner Dozier’s motion, Commissioner Hayes’ second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Eugene, Horton, Jackson, Loyde, Ross, and Goss Weisberg were absent. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the support and funding for Mama Sana Vibrant Woman in the FY 2026-2027 Budget. The motion to approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the support and funding for Mama Sana Vibrant Woman in the …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE 2026 BOND ELECTION ADVISORY TASK FORCE MONDAY, April 13, 2026, AT 6:00 PM PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, EVENTS CENTER, ROOM 1405 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the 2026 Bond Election Advisory Task Force may be participating by video conference. 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 Nicole Hernandez, 512-974-7644, nicole.hernandez@austintexas.gov. CURRENT MEMBERS: Mary Hager, Chair Ana Aguirre Nicole Conley Richard DePalma Robert Fiedler Donald Jackson Noelita Lugo Luke Metzger Kenneth Standley Ben Suddaby Heyden Walker CALL TO ORDER Frances Jordan, Vice Chair Tina Cannon Charles Curry JC Dwyer Jeremiah Hendricks Andrew Kogler Garry Merritt Katrina Miller Rachel Stone David Sullivan Kaiba White AGENDA 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 2026 Bond Election Advisory Task Force Regular Called meeting on March 23, 2026. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. Discussion of the revised and updated Working Group recommendations. Discussion of the Policy recommendations to be included in the Bond Election Advisory Task Force final recommendation. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve revisions to 2026 Bond Election Advisory Task Force Work Plan. 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 Nicole Hernandez at Austin Capital Delivery Services Department, at 512-974-7644 and nicole.hernandez@austintexas.gov, to request service or for additional information. For more information on the 2026 Bond Election Advisory Task Force, please contact Nicole Hernandez at 512-974-7644 or nicole.hernandez@austintexas.gov.
BEATF WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS AT 20% Updated 4.10.26 $750,000,000.00 AFFORDABLE HOUSING TOTAL Development of Affordable Housing Homeless Strategy Office $ 150,000,000.00 $ 105,000,000.00 $ 45,000,000.00 GHG Emissions % based on total 20% 14,715 70.00% 6,426 14.00% 30.00% 8,289 6.00% PARKS AND OPEN SPACE TOTAL Building Renovations and Replacements Parkland Acquisition Aquatic Program $ 150,000,000.00 20% -1261 GHG Emissions % based on total $ 65,000,000.00 43.33% 6807 8.67% $ 40,000,000.00 26.67% -11692 5.33% $ 20,000,000.00 13.33% 2000 2.67% Parkland Infrastructure Program $ 15,000,000.00 10.00% 31 2.00% Recreation and Senior Center Improvement Program $ 10,000,000.00 6.67% 1593 1.33% FACILITIES AND ASSETS $ GHG Emissions % based on total TOTAL 150,000,000.00 20% 16323 Colony Park Public Health 42,000,000.00 $ 28.00% 5387.76 5.60% $ Northeast Public Health 51,000,000.00 34.00% 7184 6.80% Colony Park Branch Library* $ 54,000,000.00 36.00% 3124 7.20% Animal Service Center $ 3,000,000.00 2.00% 628 0.40% *to fully fund this, the number has to be $58,800,000 (arbitrarily lowered to fit the $150MM model) TRANSPORTATION AND ELECTRIFICATION TOTAL Local Mobility - New Sidewalks Vision Zero Program Local Mobility - Safe Routes to School Local Mobility - Urban Trails Local Mobility - Bikeways Program Local Mobility - Transit Enhancements Program Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Bridge Rehabilitation & Reconstruction Program $ 150,000,000.00 20% GHG Emissions −68,678 % based on total $ 65,000,000.00 43.33% -3656 8.67% $ 30,000,000.00 20.00% -1898 4.00% $ 10,000,000.00 6.67% -1143 1.33% $ 10,000,000.00 6.67% -372 1.33% $ 15,000,000.00 10.00% -860 2.00% $ 6,000,000.00 4.00% -827 0.80% $ 6,000,000.00 4.00% -70588 0.80% $ 8,000,000.00 5.33% 10666 1.07% STORMWATER $ GHG Emissions % based on total TOTAL 150,000,000.00 20% 128442 Open Space Acquisition $ 12,000,000.00 8.00% -3508 1.60% Small Scale Stormwater & $ 9,000,000.00 6.00% 7247 1.20% Total net GHG emissions 89,541 Stormwater & Drainage Stormwater Resilience Tannehill Creek - $ $ 3,000,000.00 2.00% 0.40% $ 1,400,000.00 0.93% 1039 0.19% Walnut Creek - North Acres $ 21,250,000.00 14.17% 23900 2.83% Tannehill Creek - Morris $ 8,500,000.00 5.67% 9582 1.13% $ Boggy Creek - Kealing park 1,300,000.00 0.87% -108 0.17% $ Walnut Creek - McNeil Drive 1,500,000.00 1.00% 1508 0.20% Colorado River- CAPEX Water $ 21,650,000.00 14.43% 19384 2.89% Williamson Creek - Boggy Creek - MLK TOD $ 20,000,000.00 13.33% 24697 2.67% $ 1,500,000.00 1.00% 2074 0.20% Waller Creek - Guadalupe St $ 35,000,000.00 23.33% 31354 4.67% 14,000,000.00 9.33% 11273 ? 1.87%
2026 Bond Election Advisory Task Force (BEATF) REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Monday, April 13, 2026 The 2026 Bond Election Advisory Task Force convened in a Regular meeting on Monday April 13, 2026, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Hager called the 2026 Bond Election Advisory Task Force Meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Mary Hager, Chair Frances Jordan, Vice Chair JC Dwyer Robert Fiedler Donald Jackson Andrew Kogler Garry Merritt Kenneth Standley David Sullivan Heyden Walker Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Nicole Conley Richard DePalma Jeremiah Hendricks Luke Metzger Rachel Stone Ben Suddaby Kaiba White PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL • Katerina Harris – Spoke to the Task Force in support of the Garrison Pool being included in the bond package. • John Harris – Spoke to the Task Force in support of the Garrison Pool being included in the bond packaged. 1 • Rebecca Adelson – Spoke to the Task Force in support of the Garrison Pool and ask for support for renovations be included in the bond package. • Pamela Vance – Spoke to the Task Force in support of funding for the Carver Museum being included in the bond package. • David Featherston – Spoke to the Task Force in support of the Carver Museum being included in the bond package. • Naome Lescroart – Spoke to the Task Force in support of having the Garrison Pool renovations included in the bond package. • Imani Aanu- Spoke to the Task Force advocating that the Carver Museum project be included in the bond package. • Henry Duscheid – Spoke to the Task Force to included affordable housing in the bond package. • Zenobia Joseph- Spoke to the Task Force about the inequities and safety concerns a the North Lamar/Yager area and the inequities compared to other corridors. • Barbara Scott- Spoke to the Task Force in support library and public health facility be included in the bond package for the Colony Park/Lakeside area. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the 2026 Bond Election Advisory Task Force Regular Called meeting on March 23, 2026. The minutes were approved at the April 13, 2026, meeting on MEMBER Sullivan’s motion, MEMBER Suddaby’s second on a (14-0) vote. MEMBERS Fiedler and Kogler abstaining, Member Stone off the dais, MEMBERS Aguirre, Cannon, Curry, Lugo, and Miller absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. Discussion of the revised and …
MEETING OF THE ELECTRIC UTILITY COMMISSION April 13, 2026 ▪ 6:00 PM AUSTIN ENERGY HEADQUARTERS/SHUDDE FATH CONFERENCE ROOM 4815 MUELLER BLVD AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Electric Utility Commission maybe 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 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. To register to speak remotely, contact Nici Huff, at Nici.Huff@AustinEnergy.com or via phone at 512-972-8621. Members: Dave Tuttle, Chair Kaiba White, Vice Chair Raul Alvarez Lauren Bellomy CALL TO ORDER Cesar Benavides Jonathon Blackburn Al Braden Chris Gillett AGENDA Chris Kirksey Cyrus Reed Joshua Rhodes 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 Electric Utility Commission Regular Called Meeting on March 9, 2026. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend approval authorizing a contract for a process information analytics platform for Austin Energy with Aveva Software, LLC for an initial term of three years with up to two one-year extension options in an amount not to exceed $2,000,000. Funding: $309,000 is available in the Capital Budget of Austin Energy. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. 3. Recommend approval authorizing a contract for customer assistance program enrollment support services for Austin Energy with Solix, Inc., for an initial term of two years with up to three one-year extension options in an amount not to exceed $10,000,000. Funding: $833,333 is available in the Operating Budget of Austin Energy. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. 4. Recommend approval authorizing a resolution authorizing the filing of eminent domain proceedings and payment to acquire the property interests needed for CKT961 Induction Reduction Project for the public use of mitigating an induced voltage by the Ausstin Energy Circuit 961 transmission line on the CapMetro Red Rail Line rail requiring the acquisition of a permanent electric transmission and distribution easement consisting of approximately 0.2767 acres (12,052 square feet) out of the Rachael …
Posting Language ..Title Authorize a contract for a process information analytics platform for Austin Energy with Aveva Software, LLC for an initial term of three years with up to two one-year extension options in an amount not to exceed $2,000,000. Funding: $309,000 is available in the Capital Budget of Austin Energy. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. Item 2 ..Body Lead Department Austin Financial Services. Client Department(s) Austin Energy. Fiscal Note Funding in the amount of $309,000 is available in the Capital Budget of Austin Energy. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. Procurement Language: Sole Source. MBE/WBE: Sole source contracts are exempt from the City Code Chapter 2-9B (Minority-Owned and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Procurement Program); 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. Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action: April 13, 2026 - To be reviewed by the Electric Utility Commission. Additional Backup Information: This contract will provide continued use of the enterprise-wide process information software and data infrastructure system currently utilized by Austin Energy’s System Control Center, Backup Control Center, Sand Hill Energy Center, Decker Creek Power Station, Mueller Headquarters, Mueller Energy Center, and Domain Plant. It provides near real-time information from multiple systems, enabling management to troubleshoot issues and optimize asset performance across Austin Energy facilities. The system collects and processes data including temperature, pressure, load percent availability, equipment usage status, and substation, transmission, distribution, and district energy metrics, and integrates with critical utility systems, such as the Energy Management System, Advanced Distribution Management System, power plants, and chilled water plants. The software retains operational data for two years to satisfy insurance and regulatory requirements. Aveva Software, LLC is the sole developer and service supporter of the proprietary software and the sole owner of the software source code. Aveva Software, LLC does not permit outsourcing of these products and services through third parties. The recommended contractor is the current provider for these services. Without this contract Austin Energy will not have contractor support, access to security patches, or access to Item 2 future upgrades for its process information software, and should any issues occur, there could be potential compliance violations. Contract Details: Contract Term Initial Term Optional Extension 1 Optional Extension 2 …
