Play audio — original link
Play audio
All documents
Approved Minutes — original pdf
AFRICAN AMERICAN RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES 01.06.26 AFRICAN AMERICAN RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2026 The African American Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at the Permitting and Development Center Room 1406. Commissioner Parsons called the African American Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 5:40 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Daryl Horton, Chair Dr. Chiquita Eugene, Vice Chair Roger Davis Sophia Dozier Justin Parsons Emmy Weisberg Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Alexandria Anderson Joi Harden Kyron Hayes Mueni Rudd Greg Smith Commissioners Absent: Antony Jackson Nelson Linder Kenneth Loyde Antonio Ross PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. 1 AFRICAN AMERICAN RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES 01.06.26 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the African American Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on December 2, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of December 2, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Weisberg’s motion, Commissioner Dozier’s second on a 9-0 vote. Chair Horton and Vice Chair Eugene were off the dais. Commissioners Jackson, Linder, Loyde, and Ross were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the African American Cultural Heritage District Strategic Plan by Matthew Schmidt, Division Manager, Austin Economic Development, and Mend Collaborative. The presentation was made by Matthew Schmidt, Division Manager, Austin Economic Development and C Terrance Anderson, Mend Collaborative. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation from Dr. Obiageli Chukwuneke, President, Career Research Learning and Development Institute (CARLDI) regarding CARLDI’s priorities and programmatic goals. Presentation was made by Dr. Obiageli Chukwuneke, President, Career Research Learning and Development Institute. 4. 5. 6. Discussion regarding the African American Resource Advisory Commission officer elections, officer duties and potential interest in becoming an officer. Discussed. List of roles and role responsibilities to be sent to commissioners. Discussion regarding updates on the progress of finding a facility for Mission Accomplished and next steps in writing a recommendation to Council regarding Mission Accomplished as a budget priority for FY27. Discussed. Discussion regarding the creation of a mobilization unit for voter registration and transport to the polls for the upcoming elections. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Approve the addition of new members to the Budget Working Group. The motion to add Chair Horton, and Commissioners Davis and Dozier to the Budget Working Group was approved on Vice Chair Eugene’s motion, Commissioner Parsons’ motion on a 11-0 vote. Commissioners Jackson, Linder, Loyde, and Ross were absent. Current membership on the Budget …
Agenda — original pdf
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION MONDAY, JANUARY 5, 2026, 4:00 PM AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM, #1101 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Public Safety Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote remotely, contact Christi Vitela at participation by christi.vitela@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2792. telephone. To to speak register CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Nelly Paulina Ramírez, Chair Rebecca Bernhardt Enrique Duran II Kimberly Hidrogo CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Timothy Ruttan, Vice Chair David Holmes Michael Sierra-Arévalo Yasmine Smith AGENDA The first 5 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on December 1, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. Public Safety Quarterly Report, Austin Police. Presentation by Robin Henderson, Chief of Staff, Austin Police. Update on the Counsel at First Appearance Program. Presentation by Travis County Public Defender’s Office, Capital Area Private Defender Service, and Equity Action. 4. 5. Discussion of the Collective Sex Crimes Response Model (CSCRM) status of the project as of Q3 2025. Presentation by Hannah Senko, Project Manager, CSCRM Project. Discussion of Public Safety Commission officer roles, agenda, and succession planning. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Christi Vitela at the Austin City Clerk’s Office, at 512-974-2792 or christi.vitela@austintexas.gov, to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Public Safety Commission, please contact Christi Vitela at the Austin City Clerk’s Office, at 512-974-2792 or christi.vitela@austintexas.gov.
Item 1 - Draft Meeting Minutes December 1, 2025 — original pdf
Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, December 1, 2025 PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Monday, December 1, 2025 The Public Safety Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Monday, December 1, 2025, at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room, 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Ramírez called the Public Safety Commission Meeting to order at 4:03 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Nelly Paulina Ramírez, Chair Timothy Ruttan, Vice Chair Rebecca Bernhardt Enrique Duran II Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Kimberly Hidrogo Pierre Nguyễn Michael Sierra-Arévalo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Joel Beder – Chicano Park Lori Renteria – Martin Park Carlos León - CapMetro APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on November 3, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on November 3, 2025, was approved on Commissioner Bernhardt’s motion, Commissioner Duran’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Carroll, Holmes, Orr, and Smith were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Public Safety Quarterly Report, Austin/Travis County Emergency Medical Services. 1 Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, December 1, 2025 3. 4. The presentation was made by Wesley Hopkins, Chief of Staff, Austin/Travis County Emergency Medical Services. Presentation regarding Vision Zero by Joel Meyer, Transportation Safety Officer, Austin Transportation and Public Works. The presentation was made by Joel Meyer, Transportation Safety Officer, Austin Transportation and Public Works. Introduction and overview of Austin Equity and Inclusion. Presentation by Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director, Austin Equity and Inclusion; Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Austin Equity and Inclusion; and Emi Johnson, Interim Civil Rights Officer, Austin Equity and Inclusion. The presentation was made by Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director, Austin Equity and Inclusion; Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Austin Equity and Inclusion; and Emi Johnson, Interim Civil Rights Officer, Austin Equity and Inclusion. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Budget Counsel at First Appearance Inclement Weather Response Public Safety Headquarters Whole Blood Wheelchair exits Sobering Center First Pilot Budget/Efficiency Improvements Community Member access to APD ADJOURNMENT Chair Ramírez adjourned the meeting at 6:00 p.m. without objection. 2
Play video — original link
Play video
Item 2 - Austin Police Quarterly Update — original pdf
APD Quarterly Update to PSC Austin Police | January 5, 2026 Crimes Against Persons by Offense Type June - November Offense Type Aggravated Assault Simple Assault, Intimidation Homicide Offenses Kidnapping/Abduction Sex Offenses Human Trafficking 5-Year Mean Jun-Nov Jun-Nov, 2024 Jun-Nov, 2025 1-Year Change Difference from 5-Year Mean 1,700 7,734 40 126 499 7 1,512 7,523 40 144 493 11 1,343 7,953 28 131 495 3 -11% 6% -30% -9% 0% -73% -21% 3% -31% 4% -1% -58% Source: Versadex 2 Crimes Against Property/Society by Offense Type June - November 5-Year Mean Jun-Nov, 2024 Jun-Nov, 2025 1-Year Change Offense Type Robbery Arson Burglary/Breaking & Entering Larceny/Theft Offenses Motor Vehicle Theft Counterfeiting/Forgery Fraud Offenses Destruction/Damage/Vandalism of Property Drug/Narcotic Offenses Pornography/Obscene Material Prostitution Offenses Weapon Law Violations Animal Cruelty Jun-Nov 497 76 2,294 12,231 2,693 450 3,167 3,321 1,935 142 26 436 156 424 64 2,032 10,989 2,637 288 2,733 2,973 2,824 154 16 480 225 396 43 2,107 11,203 2,168 283 2,409 2,921 4,119 181 23 482 176 -7% -33% 4% 2% -18% -2% -12% -2% 46% 18% 44% 0% -22% Difference from 5-Year Mean -20% -43% -8% -8% -20% -37% -24% -12% 113% 28% -13% 11% 13% Source: Versadex 3 Crime Reduction Focus Areas Auto Theft Auto Thefts continue to decrease and have reached their lowest numbers since 2018-2019 Seen 36.44% decrease from 2023 to 2025 Auto Theft Unit is actively using proactive initiatives and community engagement to further support this decrease PNI Place Network Investigation (PNI) was recently piloted around E. Braker Lane September 2025, various Austin Police units and several other organizations launched a large- scale operation, focused on two establishments, resulting in three arrests Since that time, only one criminal incident was reported which was the result of a proactive enforcement effort Also seen a reduction in major Calls for Service and no violent crimes have been reported in the area 4 Crime Reduction Focus Areas Encampment Management Cleanup Multiple City Departments engaged in a month-long collaborative effort to support the unhoused population and address safety at local encampments Over 950 individuals were engaged across 585 sites 144 individuals were sheltered and 76 were connected to supportive services Only 64 citations were issued and 21 arrests made Over 563 tons of debris was collected Chicano Park- Car Clubs Residents in East …
Item 2 - Austin Police Quarterly Update - Data and Backup Materials — original pdf
APD Quarterly Update to PSC Data and Backup Materials Austin Police | January 5, 2026 APD Quarterly Presentation 2 Crimes Against Persons by Offense Type June - November Numbers noted next to Offense Type refer to NIBRS Code Source: Versadex 3 Crimes Against Persons by APD Sector June - November Source: Versadex 4 Crimes Against Persons by City Council District June - November Source: Versadex 5 Crimes Against Property/Society by Offense Type June - November Numbers noted next to Offense Type refer to NIBRS Code Source: Versadex 6 Crimes Against Property/Society by APD Sector June - November Source: Versadex 7 Crimes Against Property/Society by City Council District June - November Source: Versadex 8 Clearance Rates- Crimes Against Person January - November, 2025 Offense Reported (YTD 2025) Offenses Cleared (YTD 2025) Percent Cleared (YTD 2025) Percent of Category (YTD 2025) Murder Negligent Manslaughter Sexual Assault Fondling Aggravated Assault Simple Assault Intimidation Kidnapping/Abduction Sex Offenses, Non-Forcible Human Trafficking Offenses Crimes Against Persons Total 47 12 637 289 2,452 8,677 5,382 267 0 9 39 11 75 37 1,309 3,705 564 172 0 6 82.98% 91.67% 11.77% 12.80% 53.38% 42.70% 10.48% 64.42% 0.00% 66.67% 0.26% 0.07% 3.58% 1.63% 13.80% 48.82% 30.28% 1.50% 0.00% 0.05% 17,772 5,918 33.30% 100.00% * Period reported Jan 1 to Nov 30, 2025 Source: TXDPS Uniform Crime Report System 9 Clearance Rates- Crimes Against Property January – November, 2025 Offense Robbery Arson Extortion/Blackmail Burglary/Breaking & Entering Larceny/Theft Offenses Motor Vehicle Theft Counterfeiting/Forgery Fraud Offense Bribery Embezzlement Stolen Property Offenses Destruction Of Property Crimes Against Property Total Reported (YTD 2025) Offenses Cleared (YTD 2025) Percent Cleared (YTD 2025) Percent of Category (YTD 2025) 739 93 32 4,034 19,929 4,044 475 4,929 2 11 20 5,352 39,660 426 33 1 531 1,669 393 33 289 2 0 15 584 3,976 57.65% 35.48% 3.13% 13.16% 8.37% 9.72% 6.95% 5.86% 100.00% 0.00% 75.00% 10.91% 10.03% 1.86% 0.23% 0.08% 10.17% 50.25% 10.20% 1.20% 12.43% 0.01% 0.03% 0.05% 13.49% 100.00% * Period reported Jan 1 to Nov 30, 2025 Source: TXDPS Uniform Crime Report System 10 Clearance Rates- Crimes Against Society January - November, 2025 Offense Reported (YTD 2025) Offenses Cleared (YTD 2025) Percent Cleared (YTD 2025) Percent of Category (YTD 2025) Drug/Narcotic Violations Drug Equipment Violations Pornography/Obscene Material Gambling Offenses Prostitution Offenses Weapons Law Violation Animal Cruelty 4,757 2,198 337 9 48 924 385 3,054 757 45 3 19 753 48 Crimes Against Society …
Item 4 - CSCRM Project Update Q3 2025 — original pdf
Collective Sex Crimes Response Model (CSCRM) Project Status Update – Q3 2025 Austin Police | January 5, 2026 Quarterly Performance Summary Progress Snapshot 57% project completion (up from 51% in Q2) 9 items completed this quarter Missed target by one scope item Key Highlights Project management position funded for FY2026 SOP updates covering SCU Vision/Mission statement, case assignment, clearance statuses, and victim communication Public education campaign completed (1-year duration) SCU vehicles delivered Scope and Timeline Adjustments Several deliverables shifted between Q4 2025 and 2026 targets Net increase of 5 items moved to 2026 Training: EVAWI curriculum contract finalized; scoping underway Year-one Abby Honold grant module (8-hour patrol training) shared for feedback Q3 2025 Status Update 2 Overall Project Status as of 09/30/2025 Current Overall Status Complete: 70 Items (57%) In Progress: 50 Items (41%) Not Started: 3 Items (2%) Scope Assigned by Workgroup PM: 11 items total (9%); 4 complete (36%) PR&I: 62 Items total (50%); 47 complete (76%) Training: 28 Items total (23%); 7 complete (25%) D&M: 9 Items total (7%); 2 complete (22%) O&P: 13 Items total (11%); 10 complete (77%) Q3 2025 Status Update 3 Burndown Timeline Key Takeaways Project is 57% complete 53 items remain 15 items targeted for Q4 2025 17 items deferred to 2026 21 items scheduled for 2027 Timeline Considerations Progress tracked quarterly for each scope item Timelines may shift due to leadership changes, funding, project team capacity, or other constraints. Q3 2025 Status Update We are Here % Complete: 9% 26% 50% 57% 69% 83% 100% 4 Remaining Work Q4 2025 --- 15 Scope Items Scheduled 7 = General Order updates (PR&I)* 2 = SCU SOP update for pseudonym handling (PR&I) 2 = Survivor survey (D&M) 2 = Data dashboard (D&M) 1 = Officer and employee wellness (PM) 1 = APD SCU website (O&P) 2026 --- 17 Scope Items Scheduled 5 = Updates to General Orders (PR&I) 4 = Populations at risk of marginalization (O&P, D&M, PR&I)* 4 = Victim Services staffing (PM)* 2 = One-time and recurring audit/oversight (PM)* 1 = Crime analyst capacity (D&M)* 1 = Metrics for culture of downstream orientation (D&M)* 2027 --- 21 Scope Items Scheduled 21 = …
Follow Up Questions — original pdf
APD Follow Up Drug Offenses Austin Police | February 2, 2026 Follow Up Questions from PSC Can you please help us follow up on the questions we had around the Drug Offense category of APD’s quarterly report? We were looking for: A more detailed breakdown of offense types; Geographic location information; Demographic information; and More information on who is spearheading efforts in this category (patrol v special units, etc) 2 Policing Efforts Pandemic-era disruptions significantly reduced drug enforcement activity through 2021 2025 reflects a return to pre-pandemic activity levels Post-pandemic rebound reflects strategic enforcement shifts, not uniform growth Majority of drug-related activity is identified through patrol-based encounters, often tied to calls for service or proactive policing efforts Specialized units support distribution-level and higher-impact cases, particularly involving delivery or repeat offenders This layered approach allows APD to balance public safety priorities with measured enforcement 3 Drug Offense Types Drug offenses break down into three major categories Delivery and paraphernalia offenses increased most sharply Marijuana possession remains below historical levels In 2025, 80% of these incidents resulted in a suspended or open case, meaning no charges were filed on the individual and the marijuana was seized for disposal Less than 18% resulted in an arrest- typically tied to other charges or possession of a felony amount of marijuana Drug offenses co-occur with other, higher, offenses between 12%-23% of the time (2022-2025) Most often with Weapons Law Violations, Simple Assault, and Theft Please note, these major categories make up the majority of drug offenses. There are other smaller offense types not included in this grouping. 4 Geographic Locations • Districts 3, 4, & 9 consistently represent about 2/3 of all drug offenses each year 5 Demographic Information Percent Suspect/Arrested BLACK HISPANIC OR LATINO WHITE 2022 33% 39% 26% 2023 35% 36% 27% 2024 37% 37% 25% 2025 36% 36% 27% From 2022–2025, the racial and ethnic distribution of individuals identified as suspects or arrested for drug offenses has remained relatively stable Year-to-year changes are modest, with no single group experiencing abrupt shifts 6
Approved Minutes — original pdf
Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, January 5, 2026 PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Monday, January 5, 2026 The Public Safety Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Monday, January 5, 2026, at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room, 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Ramírez called the Public Safety Commission Meeting to order at 4:04 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Nelly Paulina Ramírez, Chair Timothy Ruttan, Vice Chair Rebecca Bernhardt Enrique Duran II Michael Sierra-Arévalo Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: David Holmes Yasmine Smith PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Scott Johnson – Distracted driving Carlos León - CapMetro APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on December 1, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on December 1, 2025, was approved on Vice Chair Ruttan’s motion, Commissioner Bernhardt’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Smith abstained. Commissioner Hidrogo was absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Public Safety Quarterly Report, Austin Police. Presentation by Robin Henderson, Chief of Staff, Austin Police. The presentation was made by Robin Henderson, Chief of Staff, Austin Police. 1 Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, January 5, 2026 3. 4. 5. Update on the Counsel at First Appearance Program. Presentation by Travis County Public Defender’s Office, Capital Area Private Defender Service, and Equity Action. The presentation was made by Adeola Ogunkeyede, Chief Public Defender, Travis County Public Defender’s Office, Ryan Crisler, CAPDS Director of Magistration, Travis County Public Defender’s Office, Katy Jo Muncie, CAPDS Director of Defense Services and Outreach, Travis County Public Defender’s Office, Geoff Burkhart, County Executive, Travis County Public Defender’s Office, Kristen Jernigan, Chief Counsel, Travis County Public Defender’s Office, Bob Batlan, Founding Member, Advocates for Social Justice Reform, Savannah Lee, Director of Policy and Operations, Equity Action. Discussion of the Collective Sex Crimes Response Model (CSCRM) status of the project as of Q3 2025. Presentation by Hannah Senko, Project Manager, CSCRM Project. Presentation by Hannah Senko, Project Manager, CSCRM Project. Discussion of Public Safety Commission officer roles, agenda, and succession planning. Discussed. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Office of Budget and Organizational Excellence G File Open Records Request Regular updates from Public Safety Unions Homeless Strategy Office Homeland Security ADJOURNMENT Chair Ramírez adjourned the meeting at 5:50 p.m. without objection. The minutes were approved at the February 2, 2026 meeting on Commissioner Bernhardt's motion, Commissioner Duran's second, on an …
Agenda — original pdf
REGULAR MEETING of the MUSIC COMMISSION January 5, 2026 6:30 PM CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS ROOM 1001, 301 W 2ND STREET, Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Music Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Shelbi Mitchell, 512-974-6318, Shelbi.Mitchell@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Nagavalli Medicharla - Chair, Pedro Carvalho – Vice Chair, Joe Silva – Parliamentarian, Nelson Aguilar, Tami Blevins, Clarissa Cardenas, Clayton England, Cornice “Ray” Price Jr., Penny Jo Pullus, Celeste Quesada AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Music Commission meeting on December 1, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on Live Music Fund collections by Kim McCarson, Program Manager, Music & Entertainment Division, Austin Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment (AACME). 3. Staff briefing on FY24 Austin Live Music Fund final reports by Erica Shamaly, Division Manager, Music & Entertainment Division, AAACME. 4. Staff briefing on Austin-Bergstrom Airport (AUS) live music performances/booking by Erica Shamaly, Division Manager, and Greg Gonzalez, Program Manager, Music & Entertainment Division, AACME. 5. Staff briefing on AACME funding programs by Laura Odegaard, Acting Division Manager, AACME. 6. Staff briefing on The Creative Reset Phase II by Candice Cooper, Acting Chief Administrative Officer and Marion Sanchez, Acting Public Information & Marketing Manager, AACME. DISCUSSION ITEMS 7. Downtown Commission update on priorities and recent actions by Parliamentarian Silva. 8. Music Commission strategic planning for 2026. 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 Shelbi Mitchell at the Economic Development Department, at 512-974-6318, Shelbi.Mitchell@austintexas.gov, for …
Play video — original link
Play video
Supporting Document for FY26 Live Music Fund Update — original pdf
Funding Programs Update Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment | January 5, 2026 AACME Funding Programs: Extension REVISED DEADLINE: December 19th at 6:59 p.m. WHY? ▪ New funding process for our community. ▪ Applicants who submitted their intake forms on time have adequate support and time to complete a brand-new process. ▪ Commitment to accessibility, equity, and meeting the community where they are. 2 REVISED Funding Program Timeline December 19, 2025 February 2026 April 2026 REVISED Application Deadline REVISED Panel Meetings Occur 6:59 PM REVISED Funding distribution begins (Activities are still for calendar year 2026) REVISED Austin Live Music Fund and Creative Space Assistance Program scored REVISED Panelists trained and assigned (Elevate and Heritage Preservation Grant) REVISED Funding Decisions announced Nexus Application Opens Thrive, Elevate, Austin Live Music Fund, and Heritage Preservation Grant application cycle begins January 2026 March 2026 July 2026 3 Funding Programs: Funds Available Austin Live Music Fund • $5,000 - $70,000 • Music Industry (musicians, independent promoters, venues) $7 Million ~370 awards Creative Space Assistance Program • $60,000 • Commercial creative spaces $1.6 Million ~25 awards Elevate • Up to $30,000 - $80,000 • Arts organizations, individual artists, creative businesses $13 Million ~250 awards Heritage Preservation Grant • $50,000 - $250,000 • Preservation projects and activities $3 Million ~25 awards 4 Eligible (Application sent) Ineligible (No Application sent) Applications Submitted Funding Programs: Application Status • 2,085 Intake Forms Submitted (2,065 EN; 20 SP) Austin Live Music Fund Creative Space Assistance Elevate Heritage Preservation EN SP EN SP EN SP EN SP Eligibility Forms Sent Eligibility Forms Submitted 1,377 1,111 16 299 10 6 138 0 1,399 1,060 25 247 8 14 125 1 991 4 72 0 855 9 67 1 ALL PROGRAMS TOTAL 3,381 2,455 1,999 120 2 66 0 205 5 58 0 456 806 3 64 0 680 7 46 0 1,607 5 Funding Programs: Austin Live Music Fund Detailed Applicant Breakdown ▪ $70,000 Live Music Venue Applicants - 46 ▪ $20,000 Applicants – 590 ▪ 49 Independent Promoters ▪ 541 Professional Musicians (3 Spanish) ▪ $5,000 Applicants – 173 ▪ 9 Independent Promoters ▪ 164 Professional Musicians 6 Funding Programs: Application Comparison Austin Live Music Fund ▪ 2024: 904 Submissions ▪ 2025: Elevate ▪ 2024: 554 Submissions ▪ 2025: ▪ 1,117 Eligibility Forms submitted ▪ 1,074 Eligibility Forms submitted ▪ 24% increase ▪ 93% increase ▪ 810 Applications Forms submitted ▪ 687 Application …
Supporting Document for Live Music Fund Report — original pdf
Music Commission Meeting Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment | Jan 5, 2026 FY24 Austin Live Music Fund – Current Stats ▪ 136 grant awards accepted so far out of 136 total grant awards (100%) ▪ 136 signed agreements so far out of 136 total grant agreements (100%) ▪ 136 completed Grant Agreement Orientations so far out of 136 total awardees (100%) ▪ 136 completed Financial Information Forms out of 136 forms sent so far to awardees (100%) ▪ 135 first payments paid so far out of 136 total awardees (99%) ▪ 106 second payments paid so far out of 136 total awardees (78%) ▪ 55 final payments paid so far out of 136 total awardees (40%) 2 Thank you! 3
Agenda — original pdf
REGULAR MEETING OF THE COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS MONDAY, JANUARY 5th, 2026, AT 6:30 PM AUSTIN CITY HALL BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W 2nd ST AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs 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 : Miriam Dorantes, Chair Adrian De La Rosa Aditi Joshi Diane Kanawati Melissa Ortega Caroline Solis AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Alondra Johnson, Vice-Chair Azeem Edwin Jeanne “Canan” Kaba Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch Meghna Roy Yohana Saucedo 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 Commission on Immigrant Affairs regular meeting on December 1st, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the upcoming programs and services for immigrant support and a recap of Welcoming Week 2025. Presentation provided by Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Austin Equity and Inclusion and Rocio Villalobos, Immigrant Affairs Manager and DACA Liaison Officer, Austin Equity, and Inclusion. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Approve the Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ primary representative for the Joint Inclusion Committee. 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, at 512-974-2562 or nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Commission on Immigrant Affairs please contact Nekaybaw Watson at 512-974-2562 or nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov.
Item 1: December 2, 2025, Draft Agendas — original pdf
COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2025 The Commission on Immigrant Affairs convened in a regular meeting on Monday, December 1, 2025, at 301 W 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Johnson called the Commission on Immigrant Affairs meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Alondra Johnson (Vice-Chair) Adrian De La Rosa Diane Kanawati Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Azeem Edwin Aditi Joshi Canan Kaba Melissa Ortega Yohana Saucedo Caroline Solis PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs Regular Meeting on November 3, 2025. The minutes were approved on Commissioner Joshi’s motion, Commissioner Kanawati’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Edwin was off the dais. Chair Dorantes and Commissioners Lincoln-Goldfinch and Roy were absent. 1 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding tenant and homeowner stabilization programs. Presentation provided by Susan Watkins, Division Manager, Austin Housing. The presentation was made by Susan Watkins, Division Manager, and Nefertitti Jackmon, Community Displacement Prevention Officer, Austin Housing. 3. Staff briefing regarding the Utility Assistance Program data and qualifications to apply. Presentation provided by Gerardo “Jerry” Galvan, Vice President of Customer Care Services, Austin Energy. The presentation was provided by Gerardo “Jerry” Galvan, Vice President of Customer Care Services, Austin Energy. Melissa Ortega dropped off in the middle of this item. 4. Staff briefing by Jennifer Peters, Division Manager Programs and Partnerships, Austin Public Library regarding an update on the enhanced library cards. The presentation was provided by Jennfier Peters, Division Manager of Programs and Partnerships and Christina Nelson, Division Manager, Austin Public Library. DISCUSSION ITEMS 5. Presentation by Gary Aaron, Senior Business Process Consultant, Austin Equity and Inclusion regarding Mapping Opportunity and identifying disparities across different Austin communities. Presentation was provided by Gary Aaron, Senior Business Process Consultant, Austin Equity and Inclusion and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity and Inclusion regarding Mapping Opportunity and identifying dipartites across different Austin communities. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 6. 7. Update on the Budget Working Group regarding last meeting. Update by Vice Chair Johnson and Commissioner Kanawati. Update on the Quality-of-Life Study reading last meeting. Update by Vice Chair Johnson. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Presentation about changes to the asylum process – Commissioner De La Rosa ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned without objection at 8:50 p.m. on Commissioner Kanawati’s motion. 2
Play audio — original link
Play audio
Approved Minutes — original pdf
COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, JANUARY 5, 2026 The Commission on Immigrant Affairs convened in a regular meeting on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 301 W 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Commissioner Ortega called the meeting to order at 6:41pm. Commissioners in Attendance: Azeem Edwin Aditi Joshi Melissa Ortega Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Adrian De La Rosa Canan Kaba Diane Kanawati Meghna Roy Yohana Saucedo Caroline Solis Commissioners Absent: Miriam Dorantes, Chair Alondra Johnson, Vice Chair Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs Regular Meeting on December 1, 2025. 1 The minutes of the December 1st, 2025, regular meeting of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was approved during the January 5th, 2026, regular meeting on Commissioner Kanawati’s motion, Commissioner Joshi’s second on a 9-0 vote. Chair Dorantes, Vice Chair Johnson, and Commissioner Lincoln-Goldfinch were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the upcoming programs and services for immigrant support and a recap of Welcoming Week 2025. Presentation provided by Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Austin Equity and Inclusion and Rocio Villalobos, Immigrant Affairs Manager and DACA Liaison Officer, Austin Equity and Inclusion. The presentation was made by Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Austin Equity and Inclusion and Rocio Villalobos, Immigrant Affairs Manager and DACA Liaison Officer. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Approve the Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ primary representative for the Joint Inclusion Committee. The motion to approve Commissioner Diane Kanawati as the primary representative for the Joint Inclusion Committee was approved on Commissioner Ortega’s motion, Commissioner Joshi’s second on a 9-0 vote. Chair Dorantes, Vice Chair Johnson, and Commissioner Lincoln-Goldfinch were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Approve the appointment of an alternate representative for the Joint Inclusion Committee. Human Rights Framework Presentation including milestones, expected outcomes, and commission feedback. – Joshi, Ortega Update from the Budget Working Group, Quality of Life Study Working Group, and U-Visa T-Visa Working Group. – Ortega, Joshi ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned without objection at 7:26p.m. on Commissioner Ortega’s motion. The minutes of the January 5, 2026, regular meeting of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs were approved during the February 2, 2026 regular meeting on Commissioner Kanawati’s motion, Commissioner Edwin’s second on a 7-0 vote. Vice Chair Johnson and Commissioners Joshi, Lincoln-Goldfinch, Ortega, and Saucedo were absent. 2
Agenda — original pdf
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL MONDAY, JANAURY 5, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. VIRTUAL MEETING Some members of the Art in Public Places Panel may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Art in Public Places Manager Jaime Castillo at jaime.castillo@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-7852. CURRENT PANEL MEMBERS: Kristi-Anne Shaer, Chair Heidi Schmalbach, Arts Commission Liaison Camille Jobe Andrew Danziger, Vice Chair Bernardo Diaz Lindsey Millikan AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Art in Public Places Panel Regular meeting on December 1, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding Art in Public Places Program, including Conservation, Current Projects and Milestones. Presentation by Jaime Castillo, Art in Public Places Manager, Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of Arts Commission Liaison Report on Action Items from December 15, 2025, Arts Commission Meeting. Presentation by Heidi Schmalbach, Arts Commission Liaison. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve a recommendation to the Arts Commission for the Colony Park Pool Art in Public Places Project Final Design. Presentation by Chirs Tobar and Celica Ledesma, Art in Public 5. 6. 7. Places Artists and Bryana Iglesias, AIPP Coordination, Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment. Approve a recommendation to the Arts Commission for the Faulk History Center Art in Public Places Project Final Design. Presentation by Suzy Gonzalez, Art in Public Places Artist and Bryana Iglesias, AIPP Coordination, Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment. Approve a letter from the Art in Public Places Panel to the Arts Commission to support the clarification of how the AIPP 2% allocation is calculated. Presentation by Jaime Castillo, Art in Public Places Manager, Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment. Approve a recommendation to Arts Commission for recommended updates to the Art in Public Places Ordinance, Guidelines, and Policies per …