HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION MINUTES REGULAR MEETING FEBRUARY 23, 2026 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on February 23, 2026, at 301 W. 2nd St., Boards & Commissions Room, in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon (Chair) Gabriella Zeidan (Vice Chair) Mariana Krueger Mindy Morgan Avitia Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Muneeb “Meebs” Aslam Morgan Davis Lila Igram Maryam Khawar Tannya Oliva-Martínez PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission Special Called meeting on February 2, 2026. The February 2, 2026 minutes were approved on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Commissioner Davis’ second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Kirsh Pozen was absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation providing an update on American Gateways’ successes and requesting prioritization of immigration funds in next year’s budget. Presentation by Rebecca Lightsey, Co-Executive Director, American Gateways. 1 The presentation was made by Rebecca Lightsey, Co-Executive Director, American Gateways. 3. Update regarding discussions and actions at the recent Joint Inclusion Committee meetings. Update by Commissioner Oliva-Martínez DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve updates to working group membership. There was a motion by Chair Duhon, seconded by Vice Chair Zeidan, to add Commissioner Khawar to the Human Rights Resource Guide Working Group. The motion was approved on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Kirsh Pozen was absent. There was a motion by Vice Chair Zeidan, seconded by Commissioner Krueger, to add Commissioner Davis to the Human Rights Resource Guide Working Group. The motion was approved on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Kirsh Pozen was absent. Without objection, Vice Chair Zeidan left the FY2026-27 Budget Recommendation Working Group. 5. Approve a nomination for the Human Rights Commission’s alternate representative on the Joint Inclusion Committee. Commissioner Lila Igram was approved as the Human Rights Commission’s alternate representative on the Joint Inclusion Committee on Chair Duhon’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Kirsh Pozen was absent. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 6. Update from the Budget Working Group regarding its progress on formulating budget recommendations for the FY2026-27 budget. Update by Commissioner Khawar. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Recommendation regarding Festival Beach Food Forest and how the City of Austin can make renumeration for the damages caused by poor communication and the placement of water main directly through Phase 2 of their project. – Krueger, Morgan Avitia Budget WG Update – Duhon, Zeidan …
Economic Mobility Austin Equity & Inclusion Our Time Together • Economic Mobility Overview • Quality-of-Life Studies: Key Connections • Building the Economic Mobility Index • Turning the Index Into Action • Upcoming Event 2 What Drives Economic Mobility Economic mobility is shaped by our systems, policies, and investments — not just individual effort. Mobility includes building wealth and long-term stability for future generations. Education, health, housing, childcare, and strong social conditions enable families to thrive. In Austin, persistent disparities limit opportunities, but a person’s future shouldn’t be determined by their neighborhood or systemic barriers. Beyond Wages Quality of Life We Shape Systems 3 Quality-of-Life Studies: Key Connections High-Level Themes Financial Progress & Economic Outcomes • Deeply affordable housing • • Utility assistance and energy relief Job pipelines and employment access programs Quality of Life & Well-Being • Pop-up clinics in high-need areas • Culturally competent healthcare training • Inclusive planning processes for older adults Opportunities & Access Teen job search portal • • Strengthen multilingual outreach • Partnerships with schools, nonprofits, and public agencies Families, Communities, & Systems • Neighborhood safety audits • Greening and beautification initiatives • Strengthen family-support systems through childcare access and wraparound services 4 Definition Economic mobility addresses systems to improve unfair conditions that influence whether individuals, families, and communities can prosper over time and across generations. It means access to opportunities and resources needed for basic needs, financial security, and a dignified, high quality of life — regardless of race, place, gender, or ability. 5 Economic Mobility Index Human-centered, place-based tool for understanding conditions that shape residents’ ability to thrive in Austin. Visualizes neighborhood- level disparities as defined by economic mobility. Focuses on underlying conditions to guide service delivery and decision- making using data and community insights. Provides a common lens to support coordination, planning, and shared outcomes—without replacing existing tools. 6 Our Approach: Identifying Levers National Frameworks & Local Tools • Drivers of Poverty • Social Vulnerable Index • Justice 40 • Neighborhood Prosperity Dashboard etc. Hybrid Engagement Process • Quality of Life Studies • CoA Commissions • Internal & External Stakeholders • Every Texan Peer Cities Review 10 cities similar in: • State • Size • Demographics • Product CoA Levers of Economic Mobility • 3 Themes • 6 Sub-themes • 18 Levers of Economic Mobility 7 Building the Index Together Early childhood foundations shape mobility • Indicator: Enrollment in early education (public …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number (20260323-004): Recommendation on Strengthening and Formalizing Funding, Staffing, Reporting, and Commission Engagement for the City’s Anti-Hate Infrastructure During the Upcoming Budget Cycle WHEREAS, the Human Rights Commission is charged with advising and consulting with the City Council on matters involving discrimination and promoting equal opportunity in the City of Austin; WHEREAS, the City of Austin has previously recognized the need for coordinated local action to respond to hate crimes and hate incidents, most recently through Resolution No. 20250724-122, which directed the City Manager to establish a comprehensive plan outlining programs and resources to respond to hate crimes and to expand the We All Belong initiative into a more formal city-led structure; WHEREAS, the July 24, 2025 resolution called for, among other things, establishment of an Intergovernmental Committee on Hate Crimes, quarterly meetings, a multilingual and accessible hate crimes web portal, a community notification and engagement program, stronger transparency and accuracy in hate-crime reporting data, and an annual hate crimes report; WHEREAS, the City’s October 8, 2025 staff response confirmed that oversight of the We All Belong initiative shifted to the Human Rights Division of Austin Equity and Inclusion effective October 1, 2025, and that implementation would require significant cross-department coordination among Austin Equity and Inclusion, the Austin Police Department, Austin Police Oversight, Austin Public Health, and other City partners; WHEREAS, the same staff response further acknowledged that the City intended to recruit only a part- time employee to lead stakeholder engagement and data analysis, while staff recommended establishing a full-time position to sustain and expand the work, indicating that the current staffing and administrative structure may not yet match the expanded mandate established by Council; WHEREAS, the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 adopted City budget includes $150,000 for the We All Belong anti- hate campaign and reflects a broader Human Rights Division budget of $1,435,358, but that division is also responsible for numerous other issue areas, including immigrant affairs, ADA compliance and accessibility, LGBTQ+ advocacy, anti-human trafficking, veterans’ affairs, and related human-rights functions; WHEREAS, Austin’s population is estimated at 993,588 as of July 1, 2024, meaning the City’s identified dedicated anti-hate allocation of $150,000 represents approximately $0.15 per resident; WHEREAS, New York City operates a formal Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes with a citywide interagency structure and a documented $3 million baseline enhancement, and with a population of approximately 8.478 million residents as …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: (20260323-005): Recommendation to Support Youth Transitioning Out of Foster Care Through Housing Stability, Targeted Services, and Legislative Advocacy WHEREAS, youth who age out of foster care face disproportionate risks of homelessness, housing instability, unemployment, poor health outcomes, and the absence of consistent familial or adult support during the transition to adulthood; and WHEREAS, research published in Children and Youth Services Review using the National Youth in Transition Database and the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System found that 29% of foster youth nationally had experienced homelessness by age 21; and WHEREAS, according to the Texas Institute for Child & Family Wellbeing at The University of Texas at Austin, 33% of youth who age out of foster care in Texas experience homelessness by age 21, exceeding the national rate; and WHEREAS, according to the Texas Institute for Child & Family Wellbeing’s 2025 executive summary on youth homelessness and foster care, the number of young adults ages 18 to 25 seeking housing assistance in Austin and Travis County increased from 376 in Fiscal Year 2022 to 1,018 in Fiscal Year 2024, and 53% of those young people reported a history in foster care; and WHEREAS, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services permits eligible young adults to remain in or return to Extended Foster Care through age 21, yet many young people still encounter barriers to stable housing, transportation, education, employment, healthcare, and long-term support as they transition out of care; and WHEREAS, housing support, caring adult connections, coordinated transition planning, and flexible financial assistance are recognized as important protective factors for youth leaving foster care; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has a substantial interest in preventing homelessness, advancing equity, supporting youth well-being, and strengthening community-based systems of care for transition-age young people; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Human Rights Commission encourages the Austin City Council to prioritize youth transitioning out of foster care in the City’s budget, policy, and intergovernmental planning and to direct the City Manager to explore and report back on opportunities to support this population through the following actions: 1. Develop targeted housing interventions for transition-age youth with foster care history, including rapid rehousing, transitional housing, move-in assistance, emergency rental assistance, landlord incentives, and other homelessness-prevention tools. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Expand support for nonprofit and community-based providers serving youth exiting foster care, including …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number 20260323-006: Budget Proposal for Increased Emergency Housing Assistance WHEREAS, the City of Austin is still facing a housing affordability crisis as data reports show that the overall median rent is now $1,624.00, with the median rent for a one bedroom at $1,405.00. Both of these figures, though a decrease from previous years and a trend in the right direction, are the second highest for any city in the state of Texas. WHEREAS, even though median rent has fallen in the past year, rental prices are still unsustainable; especially given that the cost of living for Austinites has continued to vastly increase due to national trends such as soaring healthcare costs, grocery bills, increases at the gas pump, and child and dependent care. WHEREAS, Eviction filings in Austin JP Courts reached a record high of 15,253 filings in a single year in 2025, an increase of 13% from 2024, and the State Legislature codified a bill in the last legislative session that has already weakened what little rights tenants already possess in the state of Texas. WHEREAS, per the Eviction Lab at Princeton University, eviction filings in Austin have soared to over 32% higher than the pre-pandemic average rate, with communities of color drastically more at risk of eviction in a state with some of the country’s weakest protections for renters. WHEREAS, a record 2.1 million renters, more than half of the state’s renter households, are “cost burdened,” meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on rent and utilities per a recent Harvard University study. WHEREAS, the State of Texas shuttered its statewide rent relief program in the summer of 2023 leaving it up to municipalities to act on the growing rental crisis. Austin has stepped up to the plate, most recently in last year’s budget cycle with a renewal of the $8 million rental assistance and eviction support program through the City of Austin Housing Department’s “I Belong in Austin” program. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Human Rights Commission encourages the Austin City Council to allocate at least another $8 million dollars in rental relief funds and explore all available means in order to create short, medium, and long term solutions for individuals at risk of eviction in Austin.
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: 20260323-008: Budget Proposal for Small Business Support: Advancing Human Rights Through Economic Opportunity Motioned by: Seconded by: WHEREAS, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights recognizes every person's right to free choice of employment, protection against unemployment, and remuneration sufficient to ensure an existence worthy of human dignity — rights that extend to the sustainability of small business ownership as a livelihood; and, (UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 23) WHEREAS, the Austin City Code charges the Human Rights Commission to promote equal treatment and opportunity for all residents, which includes equitable access to economic resources and protection from conditions that threaten the financial stability and dignity of Austin business owners and their employees; and, (Austin City Code § 2-1-148) WHEREAS, small businesses in the Austin metro area account for 48.1 percent of local employment, represent 99.8 percent of all businesses in Texas, and accounted for 84 percent of the state's annual job growth in 2024, making their economic resilience a matter of direct public and human rights concern; and, WHEREAS, job growth in the Austin-Round Rock area slowed to just 0.7 percent in 2025, the slowest pace of all major Texas cities, while rising commercial rents have forced the City to modify its Business Expansion Program to address accelerating small business displacement across Austin neighborhoods. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Human Rights Commission urges the Austin City Council to allocate $5,000 to the City's Small Business Division to establish an economic impact fund providing grants and forgivable loans to Austin small businesses facing economic hardship.
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number 20260223-009: Budget Recommendation for Immigration and Legal Assistance Funding WHEREAS, under Section 2-1-148 of the Austin City Code, the Human Rights Commission is charged to secure for all individuals in the City freedom from discrimination based on national origin. Without access to legal counsel, immigrants face detention and deportation stripped of the constitutional protections of due process and the right to representation guaranteed under the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments; WHEREAS, 55 percent of people facing deportation in immigration court lack legal counsel; arrests of immigrants with no criminal record surged 2,450 percent in 2025; and interior deportations by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) increased more than four and a half times compared to 2024, without a court hearing or right to appeal under the expanded expedited removal policy; and, WHEREAS, deaths in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody reached a two-decade high in 2025, with more people dying in ICE detention than in the prior four years combined, due to medical neglect, denial of care, and conditions that constitute both a public safety and human rights crisis; and, WHEREAS, when immigrants cannot access legal counsel, they are less likely to report crimes and cooperate with local law enforcement, undermining public safety for all Austin residents; and, WHEREAS, American Gateways, Austin's largest nonprofit immigration legal services provider, receives approximately 100 calls per week from immigrants seeking legal assistance and serves low-income clients across 23 Central Texas counties at no or low cost, yet relies on insufficient and inconsistent public funding to meet this demand. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Human Rights Commission urges the Austin City Council to allocate $750,000 per fiscal year from the General Fund to American Gateways as a designated recurring annual appropriation.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE HIV PLANNING COUNCIL MONDAY MARCH 23RD 2026, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, RM. 1203 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the HIV PLANNING COUNCIL may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: Join the meeting now Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone or Teams. 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, call or email the Office of Support, (737)- 825-1684 or hivplanningcouncil@austintexas.gov. CURRENT HIV PLANNING COUNCIL MEMBERS: Kelle’ Martin, Chair Marquis Goodwin, Vice Chair Kristina McRae-Thompson, Secretary Drew Kyler, Treasurer Joe Anderson Jr. Alicia Alston Liza Bailey Aran Belani Henry Chan Jeremy Caballero AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up no later than noon on 3/20/2026 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 HIV Planning Council regular meeting on February 23rd, 2026. CONFLICT OF INTEREST DECLARATIONS 2. Members will declare conflicts of interest with relevant agenda items, service categories, and/or service standards. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Introductions/Announcements 4. Office of Support Staff Briefing 5. Administrative Agent Staff Briefing 6. Part B Staff Briefing DISCUSSION ITEMS 7. Discussion of 2026 Resource Guide updates 8. Discussion of Data Binder contents DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 9. Discussion and approval of new applicants a. Kathleen Irwin b. Deondre Moore 10. Discussion and approval of Conflict of Interest (COI) policy 11. Discussion and approval of focus group questions 12. Discussion and approval of Service Standards edits and updates COMMITTEE UPDATES 13. Care Strategies and Engagement Committee 14. Finance and Assessment Committee FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 15. Discussion of workplan calendar and social calendar ADJOURNMENT Indicative of action items 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. TTY users’ route through Relay Texas at 711. For More Information on …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE DESIGN COMMISSION MONDAY, MARCH, 23rd, 2026, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1405 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Design 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 Chad Sharrard at 512- 974-8333 or chad.sharrard@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Jon Salinas, Chair Josue Meiners, Vice Chair Ramachandra “Rao” Aradhyula David Carroll Nkiru Gelles Kevin Howard CALL TO ORDER AGENDA Saira Khan Conners Ladner Marissa McKinney Evgenia “Jenny” Murkes Brendan Wittstruck PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular or special called meeting on February 23rd, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on Downtown Density Bonus Program gatekeeper requirements. Presented by Alan Pani, Austin Planning. Sponsors: Vice Chair Meiners and Commissioner Howard. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. Discussion of the implications of expanding the boundaries of Downtown to match the Central City District Plan and how that affects Design Commission scope and rewrite of and Howard. urban Sponsors: Commissioners Gelles guidelines. design Discussion on the future of the Downtown Density Bonus Program and integrating urban design guidelines, principles, and standards into that process. Sponsors: Commissioners Howard and Carroll. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. 6. 7. Discussion and action to recommend to City Council whether the project Nash Hernandez Building Renovation, located at 1621 Nash Hernandez Senior Road in Holly Shores/ Edward Rendon Sr. Metropolitan Park at Festival Beach, complies with the City Design and Sustainability Standards. Presented by Philip Reed, Levy Dykema Architects. Discussion and action to appoint a member of the Design Commission to serve as the Commission’s representative on the Downtown Commission. Sponsors: Chair Salinas and Vice Chair Meiners. Discussion and action to recommend to City Council whether the project Fiesta Gardens, located at 2101 Jesse E. Segovia St., complies with the City Design and Sustainability Standards. …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE DESIGN COMMISSION MONDAY, MARCH, 23rd, 2026, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1405 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Design 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 Chad Sharrard at 512- 974-8333 or chad.sharrard@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Jon Salinas, Chair Josue Meiners, Vice Chair Ramachandra “Rao” Aradhyula David Carroll Nkiru Gelles Kevin Howard STAFF BRIEFINGS Saira Khan Conners Ladner Marissa McKinney Evgenia “Jenny” Murkes Brendan Wittstruck AGENDA ADDENDUM 8. Staff briefing on Concourse M improvements at Austin Bergstrom Airport. Presented by Pradeep Ramadoss, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. Sponsors: Vice Chair Meiners and Commissioner Howard. 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 Chad Sharrard at Austin Planning at 512-974-8033 or chad.sharrard@austintexas.gov to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Design Commission, please contact Chad Sharrard at 512-974-8033 or chad.sharrard@austintexas.gov.
DESIGN COMMISSION MINUTES REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2026 The Design Commission convened in a regular meeting on February 23, 2026, at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, located at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Commented [NC1]: Please correct to February 23, 2026, Chair Salinas called the Design Commission meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Jon Salinas, Chair Ramachandra Aradhyula David Carroll Kevin Howard Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Josue Meiners, Vice Chair Nkiru Gelles Conners Lander Marissa McKinney Jenny Murkes PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Commented [NC2]: Should be bold 1. Approve the minutes of the Design Commission special-called meeting on February 2, 2026. The minutes from the Design Commission special called meeting on February 2, 2026, were approved on Commissioner Aradhyula’s motion, Chair Salinas’s second on a 7-0-1. Commissioner Howard abstained. Commissioners Khan and Wittstruck were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. Discussion of the Design Commission’s strategy prioritizing urban design in Density Bonus Program projects in the City of Austin. Sponsors: Commissioners Howard and Wittstruck. Discussed. Commented [NC3]: Comma instead of period Commented [NC4]: All motions need to list absent commissioner and commissioners who abstained or recused from the vote. The commissioners first name are not used here. It should read, Commissioner Aradhyula’s motion, Chair Salinas’ second, on a 7-0- 1 vote. Commissioner Howard abstained. Commissioners x, y, and z were absent. Commented [NC5]: No space between item and action Commented [NC6]: No space between item and action 1 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Discussion and action to recommend to City Council whether the project ABIA Retail Center, located at 2703 Spirit of Texas Drive, complies with the City Design and Sustainability Standards. Presented by Mirza Tahir Baig, Professional StruCIVIL Engineers, Inc. This item was withdrawn without objection. COMMITTEE UPDATES Commented [NC7]: No space between item and action Commented [NC8]: Perfect! 3. Update from representative of the Downtown Commission regarding the meeting on February 18, 2026. Update was given by Commissioner Gelles. Commented [NC9]: No space between item and action FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Staff briefing on Downtown Density Bonus Program Gatekeeper Requirements. Presented by Alan Pani, Austin Planning. Sponsors: Commissioners Howard and Vice Chair Meiners.. Discussion on the future of the Downtown Density Bonus Program and integrating urban design guidelines, principles, and standards into that process. Sponsors: Commissioners Howard and Carroll. Discussion on the implications of expanding the boundaries of Downtown …
Prereq Construction Activity Pollution Prevention Required V4 LEED v4.1 BD+C: Core and Shell Project Checklist ? N Y 1 Credit Integrative Process 11 0 26 Location and Transportation 20 Credit LEED for Neighborhood Development Location Credit Sensitive Land Protection Credit High Priority Site and Equitable Development Credit Surrounding Density and Diverse Uses 6 Credit Access to Quality Transit Credit Bicycle Facilities Credit Reduced Parking Footprint Credit Electric Vehicles 2 2 Sustainable Sites Credit Site Assessment 2 Credit Protect or Restore Habitat Credit Open Space 2 Credit Rainwater Management Credit Heat Island Reduction Credit Light Pollution Reduction Credit Tenant Design and Construction Guidelines 2 3 Water Efficiency Prereq Outdoor Water Use Reduction Prereq Indoor Water Use Reduction Prereq Building-Level Water Metering 1 1 Credit Outdoor Water Use Reduction Credit Indoor Water Use Reduction 3 Credit Optimize Process Water Use Credit Water Metering 3 21 Energy and Atmosphere Prereq Fundamental Commissioning and Verification Prereq Minimum Energy Performance Prereq Building-Level Energy Metering Prereq Fundamental Refrigerant Management 6 Credit Enhanced Commissioning 14 Credit Optimize Energy Performance Credit Advanced Energy Metering Credit Grid Harmonization 3 Credit Renewable Energy 1 Credit Enhanced Refrigerant Management 11 2 Y 1 1 0 Materials and Resources Prereq Storage and Collection of Recyclables Credit Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction Credit Environmental Product Declarations Credit Sourcing of Raw Materials Credit Credit Material Ingredients Construction and Demolition Waste Management 6 0 Indoor Environmental Quality Prereq Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance Prereq Environmental Tobacco Smoke Control Credit Enhanced Indoor Air Quality Strategies Credit Low-Emitting Materials Credit Construction Indoor Air Quality Management Plan Credit Daylight 2 1 3 1 1 6 1 1 1 6 Y 1 1 2 1 1 5 Y Y Y 1 3 1 9 Y Y Y Y 4 1 2 2 6 1 1 1 2 5 Y Y 1 2 1 Regional Priority V4 RP - 1PT RP - 2PT RP - 2PT RP - 4PT RP - 10PT RP - 2PT 1 20 20 2 3 6 6 1 1 1 11 V4 V4 V4 V4 V4 V4 V4 V4 V4 V4 V4 1 2 1 3 2 1 1 11 Required Required Required 3 4 3 1 33 Required Required Required Required 6 18 1 2 5 1 14 Required 6 2 2 2 2 10 Required Required 2 3 1 3 3 1 1 1 1 3 1 1 1 2 1 1 Credit Quality …
NASH HERNANDEZ GREEN BUILDING FEASIBILITY ANALYSIS FOR SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM NATURAL GAS AVOIDANCE AUXILIARY WATER SUPPLY ELECTRICAL VEHICLE CHARGING STATION OCTOBER 29, 2025 PREPARED BY: ACR Engineering, Inc. 3001 South Lamar, Ste. 210 Austin, Texas 78704 (512) 440-8333 OVERVIEW In accordance with the project scope and the city of Austin policy, ACR has conducted an evaluation of “Green Building” features for consideration in the renovation of the Nash Hernandez Facility. The renovation of municipal facilities, such as Nash Hernandez, require a Green Building Feasibility Analyses as outlined in a City of Austin Memorandum dated June 12, 2020, and further detailed in the accompanying FINAL City of Austin Green Building Policy Update. See appendix A. The proposed final policy includes requirements for mandatory feasibility analyses for: 1. Rooftop solar installation. 2. Avoidance of natural gas. 3. Use of auxiliary water supply. 4. Provision of EV charging stations. This report presents the results of a high-level evaluation of these potential Green Building features for Nash Hernandez facility. These analyses are intended as a guide for the Owner to consider and determine which features to include, if any, in the plans for the current project and/or future development. 1 SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM A preliminary study was conducted to evaluate the Solar-Ready Zone Area within the mandatory “Reserved for Future Solar Installation” at the Nash Hernandez facility. The analysis utilized 3D roof views in conjunction with the 2D roof plan (see figure below). The Solar-Ready Zone is defined as 50% of the Potential Solar Area, identified as the red-shaded region. The Potential Solar Area is defined as free from obstructions such as, but not limited to, vents, pipes, ducts, and other equipment and must comply with access, pathway, smoke ventilation, spacing, and other requirements of the city of Austin Land Development Code. The red outline of the roof shall be reserved for future solar installation. Code Compliance Data (per C402.8 & C402.8.1): • Total Potential Solar Area: 5,796 sq ft • Total Solar-Ready Zone Area: 2,955 sq ft 2 Code Compliance Data (per C405.15.1): • Total Conditioned Space: 9,160 sq ft • Required Onsite Generation: 0.75 W/sq ft • Total Generation Required: 6,870 W • Generation per Panel: 340 W • Estimated Number of Panels: ~20 panels Electrical Provisions The electrical design for the Nash Hernandez project includes provisions for both future and solar photovoltaic (PV) installation to meet code requirements. A minimum generation …
C i t y o f A u s t i n Design Commission Project Review Application Photo courtesy of Jorge E. Rousselin C i t y o f A u s t i n Design Commission Project Review Application The Design Commission provides advisory recommendations to the City Council to assist in developing public policy and to promote excellence in the design and development of the urban environment. The Design Commission reviews three types of projects: 1. City projects (see page 3 for process) The Commission reviews all municipal buildings and associated site plans to ensure they demonstrate compliance with city design and sustainability standards (Council Resolution No. 20071129-046), including those seeking Subchapter E Design Standards Alternative Equivalent Compliance (AEC) (Council Resolution No. 20100923-086). 2. Density Bonus projects (see page 4 for process) The Commission reviews density bonus projects for substantial compliance with the Urban Design Guidelines for Austin in accordance with the Gatekeeper requirements of LDC 25-2-586 for the Downtown Density Bonus Program. 3. Advisory Recommendations for Private projects (see page 3 for process) The Commission will consider Project Review Applications from private projects during its regularly scheduled monthly public meetings and may issue an advisory recommendation in the form of a Project Review Letter to the Applicant. Page 2 Design Commission - Project Review ApplicationPhoto courtesy of Jorge E. Rousselin This Project Review Application must be submitted before your project can be presented to the Design Commission for their review. Design Commission requests project be presented in their Conceptual/ Schematic Design phase. This application primarily addresses inhabited buildings and structures and their effect on the public realm; please refer to Appendix A for infrastructure type projects. The Commission’s review of projects is based on the planning/design principles in the Urban Design Guidelines for Austin. Ensure that all applicable principles are addressed in the application questions and in your presentation. The Design Commission supports the vision and principles of Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan, especially those that affect the urban environment and fabric. All projects should consider this vision and principles, many of which are similar to the Urban Design Guidelines. Refer to Appendix C for the most pertinent sections of Imagine Austin. The Design Commission expects the applicant’s design team to present their project with those most knowledgeable and encourages the inclusion of sub-consultants at the presentation, when deemed necessary. EXHIBITS TO PRESENT 1. Completed Project Review Application …
- SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE AUSTIN-TRAVIS COUNTY FOOD POLICY BOARD MONDAY, MARCH 23, 2026, AT 5:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1406 6310 WILHELMINO DELCO DRIVE, AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Amanda Rohlich, (512) 974-1364, Amanda.Rohlich@austintexas.gov. CURRENT AUSTIN-TRAVIS COUNTY FOOD POLICY BOARD MEMBERS: Joi Chevalier, Chair Lisa Barden, Vice-Chair Andrea Abel Marissa Bell Beth Corbett Nitza Cuevas Kacey Hanson Seanna Marceaux Erin McDonald Natalie Poulos Andrew Smith AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Board Member roll call and introduction of new and existing board members. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board Regular Meeting on Monday, February 9, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. Staff briefing regarding Women, Infant, and Children Program. Presentation by Clare Shellooe, Austin Public Health. Staff briefing regarding Austin-Travis County Food Plan Implementation. Presentation by Edwin Marty, Food Policy Manager, Austin Climate Action & Resilience and Yaira Robinson, Assistant Director of Environmental Programs, Travis County. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Presentation and discussion regarding the Food Plan Implementation Collaborative, Kelly Nichols, Woollard Nichols & Torres. Report out from Joint Sustainability Committee on February 25, 2026. Presentation and discussion regarding the working group to expand access to nutritious foods through improvement to existing materials and resources and explore alternate or expanded hours for existing resources. Presentation and discussion regarding the working group to participate in the USDA Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) application for funding for conservation easements as a regional partnership. Presentation and discussion regarding the working group to explore revenue generators such as sugar sweetened beverage tax, a surplus food donation requirement for events, and/or a percent conservation fund from all land purchases or new developments. Review Board Member Assignments. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 10. Discuss and take possible action …
Austin-Travis County Food Plan ATCFPB March 2026 – Staff Update City of Austin Food Plan Updates Milan Urban Food Policy Pact North American Regional Gathering City of Austin ACAR co-hosted the first ever North and Central American gathering in March 2026. City also hosted the inaugural convening of the Urban Agriculture Directors Alliance (UADA) Milan Urban Food Policy Pact North American Regional Gathering 40 cities from Canada, US, Mexico, Hondurus Reception dinner in partnership with Urban Roots and Good Work Austin, featuring City and County officials at Vuka Forum with panels, presentations, and workshops on best practices and challenges at Barr Mansion Keynote from Dr Patel and Dr Reese Output: Development of a Regional Roadmap Urban Agriculture Directors Alliance 25 US cities Convening took place st Zilker Botanical Gardens, with support from the Vermont Law School Output: Landscape Analysis of municipal work on urban ag City Staff Updates ● City staff provided another Memo to Council in November 2025 ● City staff will provide a next Memo in April 2026 ● City staff working to update the Food Plan Dashboard, to be completed in April 2026 Food Plan Implementation Convening ● First Food Plan Implementation Convening occurred on May 9th, 2025 ● Food Plan webinar occurred on August 7th, 2025 ● WNT will be presenting to the Food Policy Board in March 2026 ● Future Implementation work will be led by WNT ● ●Public launch for the Collaborative is being scheduled for Summer 2026 ● Funding from the MUFPP Award will be released via a RFA in fall 2026 City of Austin 2026 Bond Travis County Food Plan Updates General Updates 1. Update on County appointments and terms 2. Forecast for FY27 budget Thank You! www.austintexas.gov/food /austinsustainability
Q1 Update: Austin/Travis County Food Plan Implementation Collaborative Food Policy Board Meeting March 23rd, 2026 Overview 1. Background and Year 1 Goals 2. First Quarter Update • Actions taken so far • Proposed Liaison roles for the City, Travis County, and Food Policy Board • Requests for support from the City 3. Questions for the Food Policy Board Our Role The WNT team will serve as backbone support We will: • Design and facilitate inclusive processes • Support governance and structure development • Coordinate outreach, meetings, and reporting • Steward alignment with Food Plan goals and values We do not make decisions for the Collaborative - we support the Collaborative in making them. Our Team • WNT (Kelly Nichols, Kelley Abell, & Andrea Torres) • Blue Sky Partners (Matt Glazer & Audrey Sherman) • Dwyer Consulting (JC Dwyer) • Network Weavers • Black Lives Veggies the Nonprofit (Larry Franklin) • Cygnus Advisory Group (Joi Chevalier) • Joshua Collier • Good Work Austin (Nitza Cuevas and Kara Hanaoka) • Fruitful Commons (Angie Holliday) Year 1 Goals (At a Glance) Three core goals for Year 1: (1) Launch inclusive governance and leadership (2) Engage a broad, representative food system network (3) Establish clear ways of working and accountability Year 1 Goal #1: Governance Build a Collaborative people trust: • Establish an interim structure to operate quickly • Co-create a Collaborative Charter • Define leadership roles, participation tiers, and decision-making • Ensure power-sharing and equity guardrails Year 1 Goal #2: Engagement Bring the full food system to the table • Targeted outreach across all food system sectors • Network Weavers as trusted connectors • Meeting people where they are • Multiple ways to participate (deep + light touch) Year 1 Goal #3: Credibility & Alignment Build confidence with partners and the public • Regular check-ins with City, County, and Food Policy Board • Clear documentation and transparent communication • Early wins that demonstrate momentum and value Actions Taken So Far 1. Governance • Obtained federal EIN # for the Collaborative 2. Engagement • Informal Stakeholder conversations • Hosted Community Orientation Session 2/24 • Initiated signup form for Network updates • Convened Network Weavers to develop a food system stakeholder map and designate target networks 3. Credibility & Alignment • Convened Subcontractor Team and Established Year 1 Work Plan; monthly check-in meetings with City/County • Confirmed performance measures + reporting Next Up: Targeted Outreach …
REGULAR MEETING of the ARTS COMMISSION March 23, 2026, at 6:00 PM Austin Energy, Mueller Assembly Rm 1111a (115). 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723 Some members of the ARTS 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 Jesús Varela at jesus.varela@austintexas.gov or at 512-974-2444. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Gina Houston - Chair, VACANT - Vice Chair, Keyheira Keys, Monica Maldonado, Felipe Garza, Heidi Schmalbach, Kirtana Banskota, Muna Hussaini, Bailey Pownall, Faiza Kracheni, Sharron B Anderson, Nagavalli Medicharla 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 Arts Commission Regular Meeting on February 23, 2026. 1 of 3 DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Update on actions taken at the March 2, 2026 Art in Public Places Panel by Commissioner Schmalbach. 3. Update on actions taken at the March 11, 2026 Downtown Commission meeting by Commissioner Houston. 4. Discussion of the TEMPO on the Trail 2025-2026 Artist Final Designs Presentation by Mandi Thomas, Chief Operating Officer, The Trail Conservancy. 5. Report from Mayor’s Public Places Task Force by Commissioner Garza. 6. Update on meeting with Acting Director of Austin Convention Center, Katy Zamesnik, by Commissioner Anderson. 7. Discussion on creating technical workshops at Cultural Centers. 8. Discussion on The Long Center contract review. 9. Discussion of the Arts in Public Places ordinance update. STAFF BRIEFINGS 10. Staff briefing regarding an update on the Hotel Occupancy Tax by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor. 11. Staff briefing regarding update on the Cultural Arts Funding Programs by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor. 12. Staff briefing regarding an update on the ACME Funding Programs by Laura Odegaard, Acting Division Manager, ACME. 13. Staff briefing regarding an update on Art in Public Places by Jaime Castillo, Art in Public Places Manager. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 14. Discussion and approval on the 2027 Budget …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW COMMISSION (CPRC) FRIDAY, MARCH 20, 2026, 3:00 PM AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS, ROOM 1101 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 The Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, please call or email Ryan Alvarez at 512-974-9090 or Ryan.Alvarez@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Carlos Alfonso Greaves, Chair Ruben DeLaPaz Terry Flood Christopher Harris Lee Peterman Celesta Williams AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Laura Cortes Franco, Vice Chair Darrick Eugene Marissa Johnson Lauren Pena Kathryn Russell Speakers who sign up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of the minutes of the Community Police Review Commission regular-called meeting of February 27, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. Staff briefing regarding progress of work with the Police Technology Unit on an internal drive for the CPRC to access case files. Staff briefing regarding updates related to Austin Police Oversight, including an overview and key highlights; administrative and operational updates; commission support and follow-up; community engagement; policy highlights; and upcoming items and priorities from Director Gail McCant. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. interactions with federal Discussion of how the Community Police Review Commission could participate in public outreach events conducted by Austin Police Oversight (APO). Discussion of a recommendation to the Austin Police Department (APD) to create a public immigration authorities for public dashboard of all APD transparency. Discussion of Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) requirements for CPRC commissioners and use of a shared drive for case review. Discussion of CPRC Workflow and any potential changes to the process. Discussion of Commissioner Review Working Groups A, B, and C’s progress, experience, & recommendation templates. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 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 …
Community Police Review Commission – Meeting Minutes Friday, February 27, 2026 COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW COMMISSION (CPRC) REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2026 The Community Police Review Commission convened for a regular-called meeting on Friday, February 27, 2026, at 3:00 PM at Austin City Hall, Council Chambers (1001), located at 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701. Carlos Greaves, Chair, called the Community Police Review Commission meeting to order at 3:02 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Carlos Greaves, Chair Ruben De La Paz Darrick Eugene Terry Flood Lee Peterman Kathy Russell Commissioners Absent: Laura Cortes Franco, Vice Chair Christopher Harris Lauren Peña PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Peter Hunt spoke about a January 5 incident in South Austin in which APD officers responding to a disturbance reportedly identified an ICE administrative warrant for a woman at the scene and referred her to ICE, after which she was taken into custody and deported. He suggested the CPRC consider conducting a community review of the interaction to determine whether proper procedures were followed and noted that a formal complaint may not be possible since the individual involved is no longer in the country. He also raised broader concerns about APD policies related to administrative warrants. Judy Bradford presented testimony on behalf of a community member identified as “MTL,” describing a racially motivated attack near her home that was not reported to police due to fear and distrust of law enforcement. Ms. Bradford stated that this fear may discourage residents from reporting crimes and asked the Commission to review claims that officers may not always distinguish between judicial and administrative warrants. Ian McAdams spoke about concerns regarding cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. He stated that local police do not have independent authority to 1 Community Police Review Commission – Meeting Minutes Friday, February 27, 2026 detain individuals solely for civil immigration violations and raised concerns that such actions could present constitutional issues. Mr. McAdams encouraged greater transparency regarding any operational or financial impacts related to coordination between local law enforcement and federal immigration agencies. Jim Crosby read testimony from a community member named “Donna” regarding a September 2024 traffic accident after which she was reportedly arrested, taken to jail, and later placed on an immigration hold. The testimony stated she remained detained for several months and experienced significant personal and family hardship, raising concerns about the arrest and detention process. Chanda …
Community Police Review Commission – Meeting Minutes Friday, February 27, 2026 COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW COMMISSION (CPRC) REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2026 The Community Police Review Commission convened for a regular-called meeting on Friday, February 27, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Austin City Hall, Council Chambers (1001), located at 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701. Carlos Greaves, Chair, called the Community Police Review Commission meeting to order at 3:02 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Carlos Greaves, Chair Ruben De La Paz Darrick Eugene Terry Flood Lee Peterman Kathy Russell Commissioners Absent: Laura Cortes Franco, Vice Chair Christopher Harris Lauren Peña PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Peter Hunt spoke about a January 5 incident in South Austin in which APD officers responding to a disturbance reportedly identified an ICE administrative warrant for a woman at the scene and referred her to ICE, after which she was taken into custody and deported. He suggested the CPRC consider conducting a community review of the interaction to determine whether proper procedures were followed and noted that a formal complaint may not be possible since the individual involved is no longer in the country. He also raised broader concerns about APD policies related to administrative warrants. Judy Bradford presented testimony on behalf of a community member identified as “MTL,” describing a racially motivated attack near her home that was not reported to police due to fear and distrust of law enforcement. Ms. Bradford stated that this fear may discourage residents from reporting crimes and asked the Commission to review claims that officers may not always distinguish between judicial and administrative warrants. Ian McAdams spoke about concerns regarding cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. He stated that local police do not have independent authority to 1 Community Police Review Commission – Meeting Minutes Friday, February 27, 2026 detain individuals solely for civil immigration violations and raised concerns that such actions could present constitutional issues. Mr. McAdams encouraged greater transparency regarding any operational or financial impacts related to coordination between local law enforcement and federal immigration agencies. Jim Crosby read testimony from a community member named “Donna” regarding a September 2024 traffic accident after which she was reportedly arrested, taken to jail, and later placed on an immigration hold. The testimony stated she remained detained for several months and experienced significant personal and family hardship, raising concerns about the arrest and detention process. Chanda …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS FRIDAY, MARCH 20, 2026, AT 6:30 PM PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1406 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE 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 March 2, 2026. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion and update regarding the Social Services Framework presented at last JIC meeting. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Approve a Recommendation to Council to expand and strengthen eviction prevention programs to protect housing stability. 4. Approve a Recommendation to Council to establish a dedicated funding framework for a universal immigration representation model. 5. Approve a Recommendation to Council to prioritize filling the Immigrant Affairs Manager position to strengthen city coordination and leadership. 6. Approve a Recommendation to Council to fund comprehensive equity and inclusion training across city departments. 7. Approve a Recommendation to Council to re-instate and fund the Family Stabilization Grant. 8. Approve a Recommendation to Council to maintain and increase funding support for American Gateways’ Immigrant Legal Services to ensure ongoing community access to representation. 9. Approve a statement of concern regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement. 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 …
COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, MARCH 2, 2026 The Commission on Immigrant Affairs convened in a regular meeting on Monday, March 2, 2026, at 301 W 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Chair Dorantes called the meeting to order at 6:36pm. Commissioners in Attendance: Miriam Dorantes, Chair Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Alondra Johnson, Vice-Chair Adrian De La Rosa Aditi Joshi Canan Kaba Diane Kanawati Melissa Ortega Caroline Solis Yohana Saucedo Commissioners Absent: Azeem Edwin Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch Meghna Roy PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. 1 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs Regular Meeting on February 2, 2026. The minutes from the February 2, 2026 regular meeting of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs were approved during the regular meeting of March 2, 2026 on Commissioner Solis’ motion, Vice Chair Johnson’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Kanawati was off dais. Commissioners Edwin, Lincoln-Goldfinch, and Roy were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Update from the Quality-of-Life Study Working Group regarding progress with the Institutional Review Board, data collectors, and study practices. The update was given by Commissioner Kanawati. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Approve a Recommendation to Council to expand and strengthen eviction prevention programs to protect housing stability. Chair Dorantes and Commissioner Saucedo have elected to work on amendments for this recommendation. This item was postponed until the upcoming special-called meeting. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Approve a Recommendation to Council to establish a dedicated funding framework for a universal immigration representation model. This item was postponed until the upcoming special-called meeting. Approve a Recommendation to Council to prioritize filling the Immigrant Affairs Manager position to strengthen city coordination and leadership. Commissioners Kanawati and Ortega elected to work on amendments for this recommendation. This item was postponed until the upcoming special-called meeting. Approve a Recommendation to Council to fund comprehensive equity and inclusion trainings across city departments. This item was postponed until the upcoming special-called meeting. Approve a Recommendation to Council to re-instate and fund the Family Stabilization Grant. Commissioner Joshi has elected to work on amendments for this recommendation. This item was postponed until the upcoming special-called meeting. Approve a Recommendation to Council to maintain and increase funding support for American Gateway’s Immigrant Legal Services to ensure ongoing community access to representation. Commissioners De La Rosa and Saucedo have elected to work on amendments to this recommendation. This item was postponed until the upcoming …
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20260320- 003: Strategies to Slow Residential Evictions and Protect Immigrant Households WHEREAS, Recent local housing data shows eviction filings have climbed to levels not seen in several years, signaling ongoing instability in the rental market. While Austin’s economy has grown, rent burdens remain high, wages for many service and construction workers have not kept pace with housing costs, and affordable units remain limited. WHEREAS, Immigrant households face heightened vulnerability to eviction due to: • Concentration in low-wage and contract labor sectors • • Fear of interacting with legal systems due to immigration status concerns Language barriers limiting understanding of court processes • Mixed-status households avoiding public programs due to perceived immigration consequences • Higher likelihood of informal lease arrangements that limit legal protections WHEREAS, Evictions are not isolated housing events, they trigger cascading impacts on employment stability, school continuity, mental health, and long-term housing access. For immigrant workers, housing displacement often leads to job loss, wage theft exposure, and deeper economic precarity. WHEREAS, Slowing eviction proceedings, particularly through mediation, diversion, rental assistance linkage, and language access, allows families time to stabilize while reducing long-term public costs associated with homelessness, emergency shelter, and crisis response. WHEREAS, The Commission finds that proactive eviction prevention aligns with the City’s equity commitments and immigrant inclusion priorities and urges Council to act urgently to prevent avoidable displacement and family destabilization. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends that the Austin City Council take immediate action to slow the pace of residential evictions in the City of Austin and strengthen stabilization measures for immigrant and mixed-status households amid significantly rising eviction filings in Travis County. BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED The Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends the City Council to: . • Direct the City Manager to evaluate lawful mechanisms to extend eviction timelines, including pre-filing mediation requirements, enhanced notice periods, and eviction diversion coordination. •Council should direct the HACA Board to develop a plan now to support potentially impacted households and consult with the City’s Immigration Officer and the Commission on Immigrant Affairs. • Expand funding for emergency rental assistance, right-to-counsel programs, and eviction defense services, with culturally responsive outreach to immigrant and Limited English Proficiency (LEP) households. • Require strengthened language access standards for eviction notices, rental assistance applications, and tenant education materials. • Partner with Travis County courts to formalize …
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20260320-004 : Establish a Dedicated Funding Framework for a Universal Immigration Representation Model. WHEREAS, Austin, like the rest of the United States, has seen increased immigration enforcement in the community. Our neighbors are being detained at record levels, and the federal government has cut funding that previously supported pro se immigration legal assistance. Noncitizens are being detained at routine immigration court hearings and US Citizenship and Immigration Services interviews at never-before seen levels. WHEREAS, In South Central Texas, ICE arrested nearly 12,000 people during the first nine months of the Trump Administration—nearly double from the previous year. This includes all of ICE San Antonio field office’s jurisdiction (Austin and others) but is illustrative of the overall effect of the increased enforcement policies. WHEREAS, One in three children in Austin has at least one immigrant parent. Eighty-seven percent of those children are United States citizens. Therefore, the risk of permanent family separation is high. WHEREAS, Further, immigrant-led households in Austin earned $234.3 billion in 2023 and contributed $19.3 billion in combined state and local taxes. The financial impact of these policies are detrimental to the City of Austin. WHEREAS, The decrease in federal funding has resulted in immigration legal services budgets to be slashed or fully cut. This has resulted in layoffs at local immigration nonprofits and attorneys withdrawing their representation. Noncitizens are struggling to find legal assistance and are often turning to notarios who are engaging in unlicensed practice of law, damaging people’s chances of being granted immigration status. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends increasing funding for immigration legal assistance to expand deportation defense. Date of Approval: Motioned By: Vote: For: Against: Seconded By: . Abstain: Off the dais: Absent: Attest: _____________________________________________
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20260320-005 : Development of the Immigration Affairs Office WHEREAS, Ensuring immigrant inclusivity will build stronger educated communities that can contribute to economic growth, creative potential, and innovation throughout Austin and its society. WHEREAS, The City of Austin is committed to continuous improvement and inclusivity, and the development of an Immigrant Affairs Office would enhance the quality-of-life for all Austinites, ensuring that we remain equal to or superior to other cities that have already established similar offices. WHEREAS, The Commission on Immigrant Affairs has consistently recommended the development and/or expansion of an Immigrant Affairs Office over the years—Recommendation Number: 20190429- 5AI, Recommendation Number: 20200422-002A2, Recommendation Number: 20210301‐2b Recommendation Number: 20220307-2d—recognizing that one person is insufficiently supported in handling all the responsibilities and demands placed on them. WHEREAS, The following roles as essential to the Immigrant Affairs Office: • Immigrant Affairs Officer: leads strategy and sets direction for the Office, develops policies, and elevates immigrant affairs as a priority for the City. • Immigrant Affairs Program Manager: oversees programs and partnerships with City departments and community organizations focused on key areas like Civic Engagement, Naturalization / Citizenship, Economic Mobility, Employment Authorization Assistance, and Adult Education. • Community Engagement Coordinator (Immigrant Affairs): facilitates communication and collaboration between the City, immigrant leaders, and community organizations. Coordinates outreach efforts with immigrant communities and community partners and provides follow-up to connect people to social services. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends the development of an Immigrant Affairs Office with adequate staffing to serve as a centralized unit to coordinate services and support for our immigrant communities who are vulnerable to experiencing discrimination, marginalization, hate crimes, and/or persecution. BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED The Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends Austin Equity and inclusion fill the vacant Immigrant Affairs Manager position; develop an Immigrant Affairs Office to ensure that the needs of Austin's immigrant community are recognized, supported, and effectively addressed, which would allow for stronger community engagement, more responsive services, as well as better coordination across city departments to close existing gaps; and develop a comprehensive budget plan focused on expanding staff, services, and infrastructures will promote the immigrant community’s economic mobility, human services (health care/food/legal services), education, and civic participation. Seconded By: Date of Approval: Motioned By: Vote: For: Against: Abstain: Off the dais: Absent: Attest: _____________________________________________
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20260320-006 : Fund Equity and Inclusion Training WHEREAS, The City of Austin continues to see an increase in reported hate crimes and hate incidents year to year since 2021. WHEREAS, Dismantling hate and bias in our community requires a collective effort and meaningful collaboration between the city, its staff, and residents. WHEREAS, An addition of Bystander Intervention training would empower staff and community members with the skills to safely intervene and respond to instances of hate-driven discrimination or violence. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends adequate funding be allocated to Anti-hate campaigns and programs, creating a centralized hub where both staff and citizens can easily access information on reporting hate-based incidents, current program offerings, and available public training. BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED The Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends Austin Equity and Inclusion to expand outreach efforts to engage a broader and more diverse audience. We urge the city council to invest in the expansion of Undoing Racism training for the general public, and to ensure that both city staff and community members have access to Bystander Intervention training. These efforts are critical to fostering a safer, more inclusive, and better-informed community. Seconded By: Date of Approval: Motioned By: Vote: For: Against: Abstain: Off the dais: Absent: Attest: _____________________________________________ .
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20260320-007 : Reinstate funding for the Family Stabilization Grant WHEREAS, It can be very difficult for cities like Austin to meet their residents’ needs through subsidized house programs, as federal housing programs have limited reach and limited funding; and WHEREAS, Affordability continues to be one of the most common issues expressed by residents. The Family Stabilization Program offers more flexible access to housing support, accords more choice and dignity, reduces discrimination, and offers more efficient and cost-effective housing; WHEREAS, According to findings from the Urban Institute’s report titled Evaluation of the Austin Guaranteed Income Pilot, participants reported spending, on average, more than 50% of their pilot cash to cover housing costs, and the average share participants spent on housing was more than twice as much spending in any other category. WHEREAS, Improved housing security allowed participants to also focus on other goals, including financial investing, skills building, expanding their professional networks, and pursuing additional education; and for recipients, overall, median household incomes increased over time. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends ongoing funding of the Family Stabilization Program $3 million for FY26-27 as part of the City’s base budget. Seconded By: Date of Approval: Motioned By: Vote: For: Against: Abstain: Off the dais: Absent: . Attest: _____________________________________________
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20260320-008 : Expansion of Immigration Legal Services WHEREAS, Austin, like the rest of the United States, has seen increased immigration enforcement in the community. Our neighbors are being detained at record levels, and the federal government has cut funding that previously supported pro se immigration legal assistance. Noncitizens are being detained at routine immigration court hearings and US Citizenship and Immigration Services interviews at never-before seen levels. WHEREAS, In South Central Texas, ICE arrested nearly 12,000 people during the first nine months of the Trump Administration—nearly double from the previous year. This includes all of ICE San Antonio field office’s jurisdiction (Austin and others) but is illustrative of the overall effect of the increased enforcement policies. WHEREAS, One in three children in Austin has at least one immigrant parent. Eighty-seven percent of those children are United States citizens. Therefore, the risk of permanent family separation is high. WHEREAS, Further, immigrant-led households in Austin earned $234.3 billion in 2023 and contributed $19.3 billion in combined state and local taxes. The financial impact of these policies are detrimental to the City of Austin. WHEREAS, The decrease in federal funding has resulted in immigration legal services budgets to be slashed or fully cut. This has resulted in layoffs at local immigration nonprofits and attorneys withdrawing their representation. Noncitizens are struggling to find legal assistance and are often turning to notarios who are engaging in unlicensed practice of law, damaging people’s chances of being granted immigration status. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends increasing funding for immigration legal assistance to expand deportation defense. Date of Approval: Motioned By: Vote: For: Against: Abstain: Seconded By: . Off the dais: Absent: Attest: _____________________________________________
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20260320-009: Maintain Funding to Support American Gateways’ Immigrant Legal Services WHEREAS, Austin, like the rest of the United States, has seen increased immigration enforcement in the community. Our neighbors are being detained at record levels, and the federal government has cut funding that previously supported pro se immigration legal assistance. Noncitizens are being detained at routine immigration court hearings and US Citizenship and Immigration Services interviews at never-before seen levels. WHEREAS, In South Central Texas, ICE arrested nearly 12,000 people during the first nine months of the Trump Administration—nearly double from the previous year. This includes all of ICE San Antonio field office’s jurisdiction (Austin and others) but is illustrative of the overall effect of the increased enforcement policies. WHEREAS, One in three children in Austin has at least one immigrant parent. Eighty-seven percent of those children are United States citizens. Therefore, the risk of permanent family separation is high. WHEREAS, Further, immigrant-led households in Austin earned $234.3 billion in 2023 and contributed $19.3 billion in combined state and local taxes. The financial impact of these policies are detrimental to the City of Austin. WHEREAS, The decrease in federal funding has resulted in immigration legal services budgets to be slashed or fully cut. This has resulted in layoffs at local immigration nonprofits and attorneys withdrawing their representation. Noncitizens are struggling to find legal assistance and are often turning to notarios who are engaging in unlicensed practice of law, damaging people’s chances of being granted immigration status. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends maintaining the current funding for American Gateways’ Immigration Legal Services. Date of Approval: Motioned By: Vote: For: Against: Seconded By: . Abstain: Off the dais: Absent: Attest: _____________________________________________
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20260320- 003: Strategies to Slow Residential Evictions and Protect Immigrant Households WHEREAS, Recent local housing data shows eviction filings have climbed to levels not seen in several years, signaling ongoing instability in the rental market. While Austin’s economy has grown, rent burdens remain high, wages for many service and construction workers have not kept pace with housing costs, and affordable units remain limited. WHEREAS, Immigrant households face heightened vulnerability to eviction due to: • Concentration in low-wage and contract labor sectors • Fear of interacting with legal systems due to immigration status concerns • Language barriers limiting understanding of court processes • Mixed-status households avoiding public programs due to perceived immigration consequences • Higher likelihood of informal lease arrangements that limit legal protections WHEREAS, Evictions are not isolated housing events, they trigger cascading impacts on employment stability, school continuity, mental health, and long-term housing access. For immigrant workers, housing displacement often leads to job loss, wage theft exposure, and deeper economic precarity. WHEREAS, Slowing eviction proceedings, particularly through mediation, diversion, rental assistance linkage, and language access, allows families time to stabilize while reducing long-term public costs associated with homelessness, emergency shelter, and crisis response. WHEREAS, The Commission finds that proactive eviction prevention aligns with the City’s equity commitments and immigrant inclusion priorities and urges Council to act urgently to prevent avoidable displacement and family destabilization. WHEREAS, Evictions increase homelessness and can cause economic distress for the city. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends that the Austin City Council take immediate action to slow the pace of residential evictions in the City of Austin and strengthen stabilization measures for immigrant and mixed-status households amid . significantly rising eviction filings in Travis County, Williamson County, and other surrounding counties. BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED The Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends the City Council to: • Direct the City Manager to evaluate lawful alternatives that may reduce and delay evictions where permitted, including extending applicable deadlines, prioritizing mediation, and providing enhanced notice requirements consistent with governing law and local policy. •Council should direct the HACA Board to develop a plan now to support potentially impacted households and consult with the City’s Immigration Officer and the Commission on Immigrant Affairs. • Expand funding for emergency rental assistance, right-to-counsel programs, and eviction defense services, with culturally responsive outreach to immigrant and …
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20260320-004 : Establish a Dedicated Funding Framework for a Universal Immigration Representation Model. WHEREAS, Austin, like the rest of the United States, has seen increased immigration enforcement in the community. Our neighbors are being detained at record levels, and the federal government has cut funding that previously supported pro se immigration legal assistance. Noncitizens are being detained at routine immigration court hearings and US Citizenship and Immigration Services interviews at never-before seen levels. WHEREAS, In South Central Texas, ICE arrested nearly 12,000 people during the first nine months of the Trump Administration—nearly double from the previous year. This includes all of ICE San Antonio field office’s jurisdiction (Austin and others) but is illustrative of the overall effect of the increased enforcement policies. WHEREAS, One in three children in Austin has at least one immigrant parent. Eighty-seven percent of those children are United States citizens. Therefore, the risk of permanent family separation is high. WHEREAS, Further, immigrant-led households in Austin earned $234.3 billion in 2023 and contributed $19.3 billion in combined state and local taxes. The financial impact of these policies are detrimental to the City of Austin. WHEREAS, The decrease in federal funding has resulted in immigration legal services budgets to be decreased or eliminated. This has resulted in layoffs at local immigration nonprofits and attorneys withdrawing their representation. Noncitizens are struggling to find legal assistance and are often turning to “notarios” or other entities who are engaging in unauthorized practice of law, damaging people’s chances of being granted immigration status. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends Austin City Council to increase funding for immigration legal assistance to expand access to deportation defense and ensure that immigrant residents have meaningful access to legal representation. Date of Approval: March 20, 2026 Motioned By: Chair Dorantes Seconded By: Commissioner Saucedo Vote: 8-0 For: Chair Dorantes, Vice Chair Johnson, Commissioners De La Rosa, Joshi, Kaba, Ortega, Roy, and Saucedo . Absent: Commissioners Edwin, Kanawati, and Solis. Attest: Nekaybaw Watson, Staff Liaison
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20260320-005 : Development of the Immigration Affairs Office WHEREAS, Ensuring immigrant inclusivity will build engaged and informed communities that can contribute to economic growth, creative potential, and innovation throughout Austin and its society. WHEREAS, The City of Austin is committed to continuous improvement and inclusivity, and the development of an Immigrant Affairs Office would enhance the quality-of-life for all Austinites, ensuring that we remain equal to or superior to other cities that have already established similar offices. WHEREAS, The Commission on Immigrant Affairs has consistently recommended the development and/or expansion of an Immigrant Affairs Office over the years—Recommendation Number: 20190429- 5AI, Recommendation Number: 20200422-002A2, Recommendation Number: 20210301‐2b Recommendation Number: 20220307-2d—recognizing that one person is insufficiently supported in handling all the responsibilities and demands placed on them. WHEREAS, the permanent, full-time Immigrant Affairs Program Manager position has been vacated and is currently being filled only on a temporary basis by an interim appointee who already has significant competing demands, placing the needs of Austin’s immigrant communities at risk of being deprioritized; and WHEREAS, the current staffing arrangement is structurally insufficient to provide the full-time attention and dedicated leadership this work requires; and WHEREAS, Austin’s immigrant communities represent more than 18% of the city’s population1, come from over 120 countries2, and speak more than 82 languages3; and WHEREAS, the Advancing Immigrant Incorporation in Austin, TX4 report by the LBJ School of Public Affairs at The University of Texas at Austin, highlights that the creation and dedicated staffing of the Immigrant Affairs Program Manager was a key factor in driving Austin’s high scores in government leadership, community outreach, and legal support; and 1 https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/austincitytexas/POP645224#POP645224 2 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=430901 3 https://www.austintexas.gov/communications/programs/ispeak-austin 4 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=367457 WHEREAS, The following roles as essential to the Immigrant Affairs Office: • Immigrant Affairs Officer: leads strategy and sets direction for the Office, develops policies, and elevates immigrant affairs as a priority for the City. • Immigrant Affairs Program Manager: oversees programs and partnerships with City departments and community organizations focused on key areas like Civic Engagement, Naturalization / Citizenship, Economic Mobility, Employment Authorization Assistance, and Adult Education. • Community Engagement Coordinator (Immigrant Affairs): facilitates communication and collaboration between the City, immigrant leaders, and community organizations. Coordinates outreach efforts with immigrant communities and community partners and provides follow-up to connect people to social services. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Commission on Immigrant Affairs …
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20260320-006 : Fund Equity and Inclusion Training WHEREAS, The City of Austin continues to see an increase in reported hate crimes and hate incidents year to year since 2021. WHEREAS, Dismantling hate and bias in our community requires a collective effort and meaningful collaboration between the city, its staff, and residents. WHEREAS, An addition of Bystander Intervention training would empower staff and community members with the skills to safely intervene and respond to instances of hate-driven discrimination or violence. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends adequate funding be allocated to Anti-hate campaigns and programs, creating a centralized hub where both staff and community members can easily access information on reporting hate-based incidents, current program offerings, and available public training. BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED The Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends Austin Equity and Inclusion to expand outreach efforts to engage a broader and more diverse audience. We urge the city council to invest in the expansion of Undoing Racism training for the general public, and to ensure that both city staff and community members have access to Bystander Intervention training. These efforts are critical to fostering a safer, more inclusive, and better-informed community. Date of Approval: March 20, 2026 Motioned By: Chair Dorantes Seconded By: Commissioner Joshi Vote: 8-0 For: Chair Dorantes, Vice Chair Johnson, Commissioners De La Rosa, Joshi, Kaba, Ortega, Roy, and Saucedo Absent: Commissioners Edwin, Kanawati, and Solis Attest: Nekaybaw Watson, Staff Liaison
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20260320-007 : Reinstate funding for the Family Stabilization Grant WHEREAS, It can be very difficult for cities like Austin to meet their residents’ needs through subsidized house programs, as federal housing programs have limited reach and limited funding; and WHEREAS, Affordability continues to be one of the most common issues expressed by residents. The Family Stabilization Program offers more flexible access to housing support, accords more choice and dignity, reduces discrimination, and offers more efficient and cost-effective housing; WHEREAS, According to findings from the Urban Institute’s report titled Evaluation of the Austin Guaranteed Income Pilot, participants reported spending, on average, more than 50% of their pilot cash to cover housing costs, and the average share participants spent on housing was more than twice as much spending in any other category. WHEREAS, Improved housing security allowed participants to also focus on other goals, including financial investing, skills building, expanding their professional networks, and pursuing additional education; and for recipients, overall, median household incomes increased over time. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends ongoing funding of the Family Stabilization Program $3 million for FY26-27 as part of the City’s base budget. Date of Approval: March 20, 2026 Motioned By: Chair Dorantes Seconded By: Commissioner Saucedo Vote: 8-0 For: Chair Dorantes, Vice Chair Johnson, Commissioners De La Rosa, Joshi, Kaba, Ortega, Roy, Saucedo Absent: Commissioners Edwin, Kanawati, and Solis. Attest: Nekaybaw Watson, Staff Liaison
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20260320-008: RESTORE Funding to Support American Gateways’ Immigrant Legal Services WHEREAS, Austin, like the rest of the United States, has experienced a significant increase in immigration enforcement within the community, with neighbors being detained at record levels and federal funding for pro se immigration legal assistance significantly reduced; and WHEREAS, noncitizens are increasingly being detained at routine immigration court hearings and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services interviews at unprecedented levels, creating heightened fear and instability within immigrant communities; and WHEREAS, in South Central Texas, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested nearly 12,000 individuals during the first nine months of the Trump Administration, nearly double the previous year, including within the San Antonio field office jurisdiction, which encompasses Austin, illustrating the broader impact of intensified enforcement policies; and WHEREAS, one in three children in Austin has at least one immigrant parent, and 87 percent of those children are United States citizens, placing a substantial number of families at risk of permanent separation and long term economic and emotional harm; and WHEREAS, immigrant led households in Austin contributed significantly to the local economy, earning approximately 234.3 billion dollars in 2023 and contributing 19.3 billion dollars in combined state and local taxes, underscoring the critical role immigrant communities play in the city’s economic stability and growth; and WHEREAS, reductions in federal funding have resulted in substantial cuts to immigration legal services budgets, leading to layoffs at local nonprofit organizations, reduced legal representation, and increased reliance on unlicensed practitioners, often referred to as notarios, which places vulnerable individuals at risk of fraud and negatively impacts their ability to secure lawful status; and WHEREAS, access to competent and affordable immigration legal services is essential to ensuring due process, protecting family unity, and promoting community stability; and WHEREAS, local organizations such as American Gateways play a vital role in providing these services to low income immigrant communities in Austin and Travis County and Williamson County , yet recent budget reductions have limited their capacity to meet growing demand. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends that the Austin City Council maintain and strengthen its investment in immigration legal services by restoring the recent 10 percent budget reduction to American Gateways Immigration Legal Services program; and . BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Commission strongly urges the City Council to prioritize the restoration of …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20260302-005 : Development of the Immigration Affairs Office WHEREAS, Ensuring immigrant inclusivity will build stronger educated communities that can contribute to economic growth, creative potential, and innovation throughout Austin and its society. WHEREAS, The City of Austin is committed to continuous improvement and inclusivity, and the development of an Immigrant Affairs Office would enhance the quality-of-life for all Austinites, ensuring that we remain equal to or superior to other cities that have already established similar offices. WHEREAS, The Commission on Immigrant Affairs has consistently recommended the development and/or expansion of an Immigrant Affairs Office over the years—Recommendation Number: 20190429- 5AI, Recommendation Number: 20200422-002A2, Recommendation Number: 20210301‐2b Recommendation Number: 20220307-2d—recognizing that one person is insufficiently supported in handling all the responsibilities and demands placed on them. WHEREAS, the permanent, full-time Immigrant Affairs Program Manager position has been vacated and is currently being filled only on a temporary basis by an interim appointee who already has significant competing demands, placing the needs of Austin’s immigrant communities at risk of being deprioritized; and WHEREAS, the current staffing arrangement is structurally insufficient to provide the full-time attention and dedicated leadership this work requires; and WHEREAS, Austin’s immigrant communities represent more than 18% of the city’s population1, come from over 120 countries2, and speak more than 82 languages3; and WHEREAS, the Advancing Immigrant Incorporation in Austin, TX4 report by the LBJ School of Public Affairs at The University of Texas at Austin, highlights that the creation and dedicated staffing of the 1 https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/austincitytexas/POP645224#POP645224 2 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=430901 3 https://www.austintexas.gov/communications/programs/ispeak-austin 4 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=367457 Immigrant Affairs Program Manager was a key factor in driving Austin’s high scores in government leadership, community outreach, and legal support; and WHEREAS, The following roles as essential to the Immigrant Affairs Office: • Immigrant Affairs Officer: leads strategy and sets direction for the Office, develops policies, and elevates immigrant affairs as a priority for the City. • Immigrant Affairs Program Manager: oversees programs and partnerships with City departments and community organizations focused on key areas like Civic Engagement, Naturalization / Citizenship, Economic Mobility, Employment Authorization Assistance, and Adult Education. • Community Engagement Coordinator (Immigrant Affairs): facilitates communication and collaboration between the City, immigrant leaders, and community organizations. Coordinates outreach efforts with immigrant communities and community partners and provides follow-up to connect people to social services. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends …
Immigration and Customs Enforcement Concerns Statement The Immigrant Affairs Commission of the City of Austin unequivocally condemns the recent actions of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement ICE in this city, state, and country. Austin is a city that prides itself on being rooted in community. The City Charter itself reflects these values, declaring: “We the citizens of Austin, in reverence to the dignity and the enrichment of all people, do ordain and establish this Charter to assure economic, environmental, and cultural prosperity throughout our community.” Yet the continued presence and aggressive tactics of ICE in our city stand in direct conflict with Austin’s stated values. Such actions do not enrich all people, nor do they assure prosperity throughout our community. Instead, ICE’s approach to immigration enforcement has fostered fear in neighborhoods, separated families, and discouraged immigrant residents from accessing housing, schools, healthcare, and public safety services. When people are afraid to report crimes, seek medical care, or send their children to school, the entire community becomes less safe. Texas as a whole is home to the second-largest immigrant population in the United States, with approximately 5.1 million foreign-born residents. These numbers reflect a fundamental truth: immigrants are not outsiders to our community. They are our neighbors, coworkers, classmates, and family members. Austin should be a place where everyone, regardless of immigration status, can live with dignity. Everyone in this city should be able to trust local institutions. Achieving that vision requires drawing a clear line between local government and federal immigration enforcement. Texas calls itself the state of friendship, yet hostility toward immigrant communities does not reflect that ideal. We call on city leaders to limit cooperation with ICE, strengthen sanctuary policies, and reaffirm that in Austin, belonging is not conditioned upon paperwork. But, upon our shared humanity.
