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Approved Minutes — original pdf
ZONING AND PLATTING COMMISION REGULAR CALLED MEETING TUESDAY, AUGUST 5, 2025 The Zoning and Platting convened in a regular called meeting on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001, 301 W. Second Street, in Austin, Texas. Chair Smith called the Zoning and Platting Meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hank Smith Betsy Greenberg David Fouts Luis Osta Lugo Christian Tschoepe Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Alejandra Flores Ryan Puzycki Lonny Stern Commissioners Absent: Scott Boone Taylor Major PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Zoning and Platting Commission regular meeting on July 15, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of July 15, 2025, were approved on the consent agenda on Commissioner Flores’ motion, Commissioner Tschoepe’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Boone and Major were absent. 1 PUBLIC HEARINGS 2. Conditional Use SPC-2024-0424A - Crow Bar; District 3 Permit: 523 Thompson Lane, Carson Creek, Suburban Watershed Location: Owner/Applicant: Crow Bar (Steve Gee) Agent: Request: Staff Rec.: Staff: Element 5 Architecture; PLLC (Drew Randall) Conditional Use Permit for a Cocktail Lounge in the CS-1-CO Zone Recommended Randall Rouda, 512-974-3338, randall.rouda@austintexas.gov Development Services Department The motion to approve Staff’s recommendation of a conditional use permit for a cocktail lounge in the CS-1-CO Zone for SPC-2024-0424A - Crow Bar; District 3, located at 523 Thompson Lane, was approved on the consent agenda on Commissioner Flores’ motion, Commissioner Tschoepe’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Boone and Major were absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Discussion and action regarding the September 12, 2023, Planning Commission Recommendation to Council to establish a Regulatory Plan for the area generally bounded to the east by Capital of Texas Hwy 360, to the south by the north shoreline of Lake Austin, to the west by 620, and to the north by Boulder Lane and Bull Creek. (Sponsored by Vice Chair Greenberg and Commissioner Tschoepe) The motion to approve and transmit to the Austin City Council the recommendation that is regarding the September 12, 2023, Planning Commission Recommendation to Council to establish a Regulatory Plan for the area generally bounded to the east by Capital of Texas Hwy 360, to the south by the north shoreline of Lake Austin, to the west by 620, and to the north by Boulder Lane and Bull Creek was approved with the following friendly amendment on motion by Vice Chair …
Approved Minutes — original pdf
URBAN TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, August 5, 2025 URBAN TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, August 5, 2025 The Urban Transportation Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 6310 Whilemina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Schumacher called the Commission Meeting to order at 5:05 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Spencer Schumacher, Vice Chair - (District 9) Justin Jacobson - (District 8) Commissioners in Attendance Virtually: Susan Somers, Chair - (District 4) Daniel Kavelman, Parliamentarian - (District 5) Kevin Chen - (District 6) Joshua Sorin – (District 10) Deshon Brown- (Mayoral Appointee) PUBLIC COMMUNICATION None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the URBAN TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING on July 1, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of 7/1/2025 were approved on a motion from Chair Somers, and a second from Vice Chair Schumacher on a 6-0 vote, with Commissioners Buffo, Alvarez, Chen, & Prasad absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion on the Cap Metro Bike Share Expansion. The commission received a presentation from Michael Kimbro & Jacob Barrett, Transportation and Public Works with JD Simpson, CapMetro 3. Discussion on Emergency Response Management The commission received a presentation from Kimmi McMinn & Dan Valbraht, Transportation and Public Works 4. Discussion on Autonomous Vehicles The commission received a presentation from Kristin Bray, Transportation and Public Works 1 URBAN TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, August 5, 2025 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion on and approval of Urban Transportation Commission comment to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles on Autonomous Vehicles Rules adoption. On a motion from Vice Chair Schumacher, and a second from Chair Somers, the item was postponed indefinitely with a 7-0 vote, with Commissioners Buffo, Alvarez, & Prasad absent. 6. Discussion and possible action regarding an appointment to the Downtown Commission (one vacancy). On a motion from Vice Chair Schumacher, and a second from Commissioner Chen, the item was postponed to the September 2, 2025 meeting with a 7-0 vote, with Commissioners Buffo, Alvarez, & Prasad absent. COMMITTEE UPDATES 8. Update from Commissioner Schumacher from the Bicycle Advisory Council regarding actions taken at the July 15, 2025, meeting. The commission received an update from Vice Chair Schumacher. 9. Update from Commissioner Kavelman from the Pedestrian Advisory Council regarding actions taken at the July 7, 2025, meeting. The commission received an update from Commissioner Kavelman. 10. Update from Chair Somers from the City Council …
Approved Minutes — original pdf
African American Resource Advisory Commission Minutes August 5, 2025 African American Resource Advisory Commission Regular Meeting Minutes Tuesday, August 5, 2025 The African American Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the African American Cultural and Heritage Facility at 912 E 11th St, in Austin, Texas. Chair Horton called the African American Resources Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 5:41 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Daryl Horton, Chair Roger Davis Nelson Linder Justin Parsons Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Alexandria Anderson Sophia Dozier Joi Harden Kyron Hayes Mueni Rudd Greg Smith PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the African American Resource Advisory Commission Regular Meeting on June 3, 2025. The minutes were approved on Commissioner Parsons’ motion, Commissioner Linder’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Davis and Rudd were off the dais. Vice Chair Eugene and Commissioners Jackson, Ross, and Weisberg were absent. 1 African American Resource Advisory Commission Minutes August 5, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. Staff briefing by Ann Eaton, Assistant Director, Economic Development Department regarding funding priorities and project updates by the Economic Development Department that impact the African American Community. Staff briefing provided by Ann Eaton, Assistant Director, Economic Development Department. Staff briefing from David Alcorta, Paraprofessional, Communication and Public Information Office (CPIO) and Houmma Garba, Community Engagement Consultant, CPIO regarding CPIO’s and Homeland Security and Emergency Management’s (HSEM) new emergency language access plan. Staff briefing postponed until September 2, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Discussion and approve the date, time, location and subjects of a 2025 African American Resource Advisory Commission Retreat. Discussed no action taken. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS SXSW’s impact on Black Austinites and how the commission can support them in improving engagement. Community Powered ATX’s impact on Black Austinites and how the commission can support them in improving engagement. Updates from the previous JIC meetings and informational clinics. Chair Horton adjourned the meeting at 6:51 p.m. without objection. The minutes of the August 5, 2025 regular meeting were approved during the September 2, 2025 regular meeting on Commissioner Linder’s motion, Commissioner Parson’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioners Anderson and Rudd were off the dais. Commissioners Jackson and Ross were absent. 2
Agenda — original pdf
REGULAR MEETING of the ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL Monday, August 4, 2025, at 6:00 PM Economic Development Offices 5202 East Ben White Boulevard, Suite 400 Austin, Texas 78741 Members of the ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL may participate by video conference. Public comment will be allowed remotely via video conference or telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item 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 participation. To register to speak, call or email AIPP Program Manager Jaime Castillo at jaime.castillo@austintexas.gov, (512) 974-7852. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Chair – Kristi-Anne Shaer, Vice Chair – Andrew Danziger, Taylor Davis, Bernardo Diaz, Monica Maldonado – Arts Commission Liaison. 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 minutes of the Art in Public Places Panel Regular Meeting on July 7, 2025 DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. Discussion of Arts Commission Liaison Report on Action Items from July 21, 2025, Arts Commissions Meeting by Arts Commission Liaison Maldonado Discussion of Resolution No. 20250306-029 Update Discussion of Concept Design for the Elisabet Ney Museum Art in Public Places Project – Tamara Johnson DISCUSSION ITEMS DISCUSSION ITEMS AND ACTION ITEMS 5. ACTION: Approve the Final Design for the Duncan Park Art in Public Places Project – Andre Fuqua STAFF BRIEFINGS 6. Art in Public Places Staff Briefing on Conservation, Current Projects, and Milestones FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please contact AIPP Program Manager Jaime Castillo at jaime.castillo@austintexas.gov or (512) 974- 7852 for additional information; TTY users' route through Relay Texas at 711.
Agenda — original pdf
REGULAR MEETING OF THE COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS AUGUST 4, 2025, 6:30 PM AUSTIN CITY HALL BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W 2nd Street 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 or in person, contact Nekaybaw Watson at nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-2562. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS : Melissa Ortega, Chair Jeanne “Canan” Kaba Miriam Dorantes, Vice-Chair Diane Kanawati Adrian De La Rosa Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch Azeem Edwin Alondra Johnson Yohana Saucedo Aditi Joshi Meghana Roy AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up 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 July 7, 2025. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding revisions to Austin Police Department’s U-Visa Policy by Lieutenant Robert Smith, Special Victims Bureau, Austin Police Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion regarding the Travis County Commissioner’s Court vacancy. 4. Update on the most recent Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) meetings held in July 2025, as they relate to the Commission on Immigrant Affairs. 5. Update regarding the discussion during the July LGBTQ Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission Meeting about Immigrant Affairs. 6. Discussion regarding the written update on the Naturalization Informational Sessions and Clinics provided by Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Office of Equity and Inclusion. 7. Discussion regarding the written update on the Immigrant Quality-of-Life Study provided by Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director of the Office of Equity and Inclusion. 8. Discussion regarding the new structure for requesting updates from the Office of Equity and Inclusion. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 9. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the staffing support of the Commission for Immigrant Affairs. 10. Approve the election of Chair. 11. Approve the election of Vice Chair. 12. Approve the appointment of Joint Inclusion Committee primary representative and alternate representative. 13. Approve the creation of a Working Group that prepares statements for commissioners to use when representing the …
Item 1: Draft Minutes 07.07.2025 — original pdf
Commission on Immigrant Affairs Meeting Minutes July 7, 2025 Commission on Immigrant Affairs Regular Meeting Minutes Monday, July 7, 2025 The Commission on Immigrant Affairs convened in a regular meeting on Monday, July 7, 2025, at Austin City Hall, W 3rd St, Room 1101 in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Dorantes called the Commission on Immigrant Affairs Regular Meeting to order at 6:39 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Miriam Dorantes, Vice Chair Adrian De La Rosa Alondra Johnson Diane Kanawati Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Melissa Ortega, Chair Azeem Edwin Aditi Joshi Jeanne “Canan” Kaba Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch Meghna Roy PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos Soto – Community Advancement Network Kathy Mitchell – General Budget Savannah Lee – Funding for community investment priorities APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Immigration Affairs regular meeting on June 2, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of June 2, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Johnson’s motion, Vice Chair Dorantes’ second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Saucedo was absent. 1 Commission on Immigrant Affairs Meeting Minutes July 7, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding updates on the procurement process and budget of the Quality- of-Life Study by Alejandra Mireles, Equity and Inclusion Program Coordinator and Jeremy Garza, Business Process Consultant – Equity Division, Office of Equity and Inclusion. Staff briefing was made by Jeremy Garza, Business Process Consultant and Amanda Jasso, Program Manager 1 – Equity Division, Office of Equity and Inclusion. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. Welcome new Commissioners to Commission on Immigrant Affairs. Discussed. Update on the most recent Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) meeting held in June 2025, as it relates to the Commission on Immigrant Affairs. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. 6. 7. 8. Approve the 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review Report. The motion to approve the 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review Report was approved on Vice Chair Dorantes’ motion, Commissioner Kaba’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Saucedo was absent. Approve updates to the membership of the Quality-of-Life Working Group. (Working group Members: Chair Melissa Ortega, Commissioners Alondra Johnson, Aditi Joshi, Jeanne C Kaba; Community Stakeholders: Karen Crawford, Krystal Gomez, Oscar Ponce, and Kirk Yoshida). The motion to approve the addition of Commissioners Kanawati and Roy to the Quality-of-Life Working Group was approved on Chair Ortega’s motion, Vice Chair Dorantes’ second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Saucedo was absent. Approve updates to the membership of the Budget Working Group. (Working Group Members: …
Item 14: Travis County Commissioners Court Appointment Letter — original pdf
Dear Travis County Commissioners Court and County Judge, I am writing to you today in my capacity as [Commissioner/member of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs] to respectfully urge your support in filling the Travis County appointment seat, which has been vacant for over two years. On behalf of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs, I would like to express our sincere gratitude for the Court's previous actions, particularly your resolution calling for the constitutional and humane treatment of immigrants in the custody of U.S. law enforcement agencies, as well as your commitment to the Constitution, due process, and the protection of habeas corpus. This resolution holds profound significance for our immigrant community, especially in the current moment, and we deeply appreciate your continued leadership in advocating for justice. The Commission on Immigrant Affairs highly values the Travis County seat. However, the prolonged vacancy in this position has created substantial challenges in our ability to meet and perform our duties. In 2024, the Commission was unable to convene for six consecutive months due to the lack of sufficient members, with just one member short of the quorum required after the addition of the Travis County appointment. This absence has at times, hindered our capacity to serve the immigrant population in Austin. The immigrant community in our city is facing an increasingly hostile political climate, both at the state and federal levels. With policies that disproportionately target immigrants and refugees, it is more critical than ever that the Commission operates at full capacity. The need for a full Commission is urgent to ensure that we can effectively advocate for and support this vulnerable population. Therefore, we respectfully ask the Court to fill the Travis County vacancy as soon as possible, at the latest, to start the process by August 31. The immigrant community in Austin relies on the Commission’s work to protect their rights, ensure their voices are heard, and address the unique challenges they face. Thank you for your time and your continued leadership. We remain grateful for your dedication to our shared values of justice, fairness, and compassion. We look forward to hearing from you soon. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Position] [Your Contact Information]
Item 2: U Visa Presentation from APD — original pdf
U Visa Program Updates Lieutenant Robert Smith | Austin Police Department | August 4, 2025 History of the Program The U Visa program was created by Congress in 2000 with the passage of the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act. The program aims to strengthen law enforcement’s ability to investigate and prosecute serious and violent crimes, and to protect victims of these crimes through enhanced collaboration with immigrant communities. The program offers temporary legal status to noncitizen victims of certain qualifying crimes who are willing to cooperate in the investigation or prosecution of those crimes. 2 APD’s Role in the Program Applications for U Visa status require the submission of a certification form from a federal, state, tribal or local law enforcement agency, prosecutor, or judge. While APD helps facilitate certifications through this program, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) ultimately determines whether an individual qualifies for a U Visa. 3 APD Policy Updates Following staffing changes made by Chief Davis, the Special Victims Investigations Bureau leadership identified ways to better clarify the U Visa application review process, particularly regarding the statute of limitations for reported crimes. Department policy (GO 607) and APD’s internal U Visa Committee Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) have both been updated with clear language that aligns with federal program guidelines. APD staff will be trained on the updated policies and procedures. 4 Impact on U Visa Applicants In 2024: • 508 requests submitted • 4 rejected for expired statute of limitations In 2025: • 304 requests submitted (through July 17) • 10 rejected for expired statute of limitations 5 Next Steps Individuals who previously submitted petitions for U Visas under prior department policy and whose applications were rejected based on an expired statute of limitations have been encouraged to reapply. 6 Engaging the Community The Austin Police Department is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all individuals in our community, regardless of their background or immigration status. APD will continue to work with our community to foster trust through continued outreach, education, and collaborative partnerships. 7 Questions? ROBERT.SMITH@AUSTINTEXAS.GOV
Item 3: Travis County Commissioners Court Vacancy Report — original pdf
Introduction The Travis County Commissioners Court – the county’s five-member governing body – plays a key role in appointing individuals to various boards and commissions. These appointments include Travis County’s own boards and committees as well as seats on City of Austin boards and commissions that reserve positions for Travis County. The City of Austin’s Commission on Immigrant Affairs is one example: its bylaws stipulate that 11 members are appointed by the Austin City Council and one member is appointed by the Travis County Commissioners Court[1]. However, that Travis County-appointed seat on the Immigrant Affairs commission has been vacant for over two years, highlighting the need to understand and engage in the county’s appointment process. Below is a comprehensive overview of how the Travis County Commissioners Court handles board and commission appointments, a list of all bodies where the Court has appointing authority (with emphasis on City of Austin commissions involving the County), the application process and timeline for appointments, and guidance for community members interested in these roles. Travis County’s Appointment Process: General Overview Two Appointment Methods: Travis County appointments fall into two broad categories – individual Commissioner nominations and the Uniform Appointment Process (UAP). In many cases, each of the five members of the Commissioners Court directly nominates a person to serve (for example, if a board requires one appointee per commissioner or per precinct). In other cases – especially for significant external boards or joint City/County commissions – the full Court uses a uniform, open process to select appointees from the community[2][3]. ● Individual Nominations: When a board has a number of seats equal to the number of Court members (or a multiple thereof), it is common for each County Commissioner (and the County Judge) to nominate a candidate. For instance, if there are five seats to fill, each of the five Court members may put forward one nominee. This ensures representation across all four precincts and the county at-large. (The Travis County Code notes that when the Court has five appointments to make, each Court member will nominate one; if there are more than five, nominations are divided equally among Court members)[2]. These nominations are then confirmed by a Commissioners Court vote. Examples of boards handled in this way include certain advisory committees or task forces – e.g. bond advisory committees – where each Commissioner appoints a constituent from their precinct. These appointments typically do not …
Item 7: Immigrant Quality of Life Study Update — original pdf
M E M O R A N D U M TO: Commission on Immigrant Affairs FROM: Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director, Office of Equity & Inclusion DATE: July 25, 2025 SUBJECT: Update: Quality of Life Study for Immigrant, Refugee, and other Foreign-born Community Members This memo provides a brief update on the status of the study and a tentative timeline for next steps. As a reminder, when City contracts exceed $76,000, staff are required to seek City Council approval via a Recommendation for Council Action (RCA). The Austin Equity and Inclusion – Equity Division is pleased to report that the selected research team, the National Center for Farmworker Health (NCFH), has signed the contract, and the RCA has been submitted for placement on the August 28th City Council meeting agenda. Once the RCA is approved by City Council and the contract is officially executed, Austin Equity and Inclusion will coordinate with NCFH to initiate project activities. At that time, we will distribute a Doodle poll to schedule the first Kick-Off Meeting with the Commission Workgroup, which we anticipate will take place in September. Additionally, Welcoming Week is scheduled for September 12–21, 2025. This presents a timely opportunity to align the launch of the Quality-of-Life Study with other key office initiatives, such as the Welcoming Certification Report. Members of the public—including Commissioners—can sign up for public comment at the August 28th Council meeting. If you wish to do so, please follow the City’s guidelines for registering to speak, which are available on the City Council Meeting Information Center. Thank you again for your continued support, dedication and collaboration on this important project. If you have any questions, ideas, or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at Lindsey.Wilson@austintexas.gov.
Item 9: Draft Recommendation regarding staffing support for the Commission on Immigrant Affairs. — original pdf
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20250804XXX: Recommendation Supporting Focused Staffing for Immigrant Affairs WHEREAS, we commend the establishment of the Human Rights Officer Division and the appointment of a dedicated officer overseeing Immigrant Affairs, Veteran Affairs, and ADA, all under the Office of Equity and Inclusion; and WHEREAS, it is important to acknowledge that the current scope of work for Austin remains too vast for a sole Immigrant Affairs Program Manager to focus on all the aspects of Immigrant Affairs; and WHEREAS, in Austin, more than 18% of the population are foreign-born1; and WHEREAS, Austin’s immigrant population comes from over 120 different countries2; and WHEREAS, according to City data at iSpeak Austin, more than 85 languages are spoken throughout the City, 31% of Austinites speak a language other than English at home and 11.4% of Austinites speak English “less than very well”3; and WHEREAS, the recommendation to establish an office with staff exclusively dedicated to immigrant Affairs, is supported by multiple reports, including “Advancing Immigrant Incorporation in Austin, TX.”4 by the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin, which found that an Immigrant Affairs Office is necessary and recommended its creation; and WHEREAS, presently, the Human Rights Officer is tasked with balancing multiple duties, which at times overlap and, at other times, diverge from immigrant affairs; and WHEREAS, there is only one position that is entirely focused on Immigrant Affairs, with the individual in this role being uniquely and solely able to be the best advisor on this account; and 1 https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/austincitytexas 2 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=430901 3 https://www.austintexas.gov/iSpeakAustin 4 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=367457 WHEREAS, the current Immigrant Affairs Program Manager has served in this role for the past five years, during which they have built strong partnerships and collaborated with numerous nonprofit organizations as well as community members within the immigrant community; and WHEREAS, the Immigrant Affairs Program Manager has been providing monthly briefings to the Commission on Immigrant Affairs regarding their efforts within the immigrant community and should continue to do so; and WHEREAS, given the complexities of the current political climate, it is essential that the Immigrant Affairs Program Manager receive additional, focused support dedicated entirely to their role and responsibilities; and WHEREAS, we strongly believe that the Immigrant Affairs Program Manager should be present at every meeting related to immigrant affairs, alongside the Human Rights Officer, to ensure comprehensive and focused advocacy for immigrant …
Agenda — original pdf
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION Monday, August 4, 2025, 4:00 PM Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room, #1101 301 West 2nd Street Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Public Safety Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely or in person, call or email Christi Vitela, 512-974-2792, christi.vitela@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Nelly Paulina Ramírez, Chair Timothy Ruttan, Vice Chair Rebecca Bernhardt Angel Carroll Enrique Duran II Kimberly Hidrogo David Holmes Pierre Nguyễn Kristy Orr Michael Sierra-Arévalo Yasmine Smith AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on July 7, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Public Safety Quarterly Report, Austin Fire Department. 3. 4. Discussion of the City of Austin Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget and impact on public safety departments. Update on the 89th Texas Legislature and impacts on public safety. Presentation by Carrie Rogers, Intergovernmental Relations Officer, Austin Office of Intergovernmental Relations. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATION 5. Training Academy Working Group recommendation to the Public Safety Commission. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding implementation, tracking, and transparency of recommendations made for Austin Police Department’s Cadet Training Academy. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Christi Vitela at the Office of the City Clerk Department, at 512-974-2792 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Public Safety Commission, please contact Christi Vitela at (512-974- 2792 or christi.vitela@austintexas.gov).
Item #1 Draft Meeting Minutes July 7, 2025 — original pdf
Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, July 7, 2025 PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Monday, July 7, 2025 The Public Safety Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Monday, July 7, 2025, at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room, 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Ramírez called the Public Safety Commission Meeting to order at 4:02 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Nelly Paulina Ramírez, Chair Tim Ruttan, Vice Chair Rebecca Bernhardt Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Angel Carroll Enrique Duran II Kimberly Hidrogo David Holmes Yasmine Smith PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos Soto – Community Advancement Network Rubén Rivera Clemente – Harassment APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. 2. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on May 5, 2025. The minutes were approved at the July 7, 2025, meeting on Vice Chair Ruttan’s motion, Commissioner Bernhardt’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Smith abstained. Commissioners Nguyễn, Orr, and Sierra-Arévalo were absent. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on June 2, 2025. The minutes were approved at the July 7, 2025, meeting on Vice Chair Ruttan’s motion, Commissioner Bernhardt’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Nguyễn, Orr, and Sierra-Arévalo were absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Approve the Public Safety Commission 2024-2025 Annual Internal Report. 1 Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, July 7, 2025 The motion to approve the Public Safety Commission 2024-2025 Annual Internal Report was approved on Vice Chair Ruttan’s motion, Commissioner Bernhardt’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Nguyễn, Orr, and Sierra-Arévalo were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Public Safety Quarterly Report, Austin Police Department and update on the Automated License Plate Reader Program. Presentation by Robin Henderson, Chief of Staff, Austin Police Department. The presentation was made by Robin Henderson, Chief of Staff, Austin Police Department. 4. 5. Chair Ramírez requested the most recent Berry Dunn Report. Commissioner Bernhardt requested the next quarterly update include attrition rates for each of the academies and progress towards the 30 by 30 goal. Vice Chair Ruttan asked if the increases in Kidnapping/Abduction (100) and Drug/Narcotic Offenses (35A, 35B) and Pornography/Obscene Material (370) could be attributed to changes in enforcement patterns or whether it was a random variation. Discussion of bylaw amendment process, current bylaws, and potential changes. Discussed. Discussion of sexual assault data with Austin Police Department Sex Crimes Unit, Austin- Travis County Sexual Assault Response & Resource Team (SARRT), The …
Item #6 Draft Recommendation - Implementation, tracking and transparency of recommendations made for Austin Police Department’s Cadet Training Academy — original pdf
PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION Recommendation 20250804-006: Date: August 4, 2025 Subject: Motioned by: Seconded by: Implementation, tracking and transparency of recommendations made for Austin Police Department’s Cadet Training Academy D RAFT WHEREAS, The Austin Public Safety Commission is tasked with reviewing public safety agency budgets and providing policy recommendations to the Austin City Council; and WHEREAS, The City of Austin in conjunction with Austin community members developed a comprehensive plan for reimagining public safety; and WHEREAS, in 2018, multiple former cadets from the Austin Police Academy notified the Austin Police Department of academy curricula they believed was strongly focused on dominance, aggression, and violence in keeping with a “warrior” approach to policing; and WHEREAS a 2020 lawsuit against the City of Austin, the Austin Police Department, and the chief of the Austin Police detailed at least 8 cadets fell ill in APD academy training as a result of policy violations and improperly implemented “Stress Reaction Training,”; and WHEREAS, City Council Resolution 66, the work of the Reimagining Public Safety Task Force, and the 2020 Strategic Plan of the APD Training Academy articulate the goal of realizing an Austin Police Academy that transparently addresses issues of racial and gender equity, emphasizes de-escalation tactics that minimize the use of force, and moves away from a regimented, paramilitary culture into an academy which incorporates community partnerships and current evidence-based strategies for the learning of current and future officers; and WHEREAS, on November 12, 2020, the City of Austin’s Office of Police Oversight (OPO), in consultation with the City Manager's Office, retained Kroll Associates, Inc. to review and evaluate the Austin Police Department on the extent to which forms of racism, bigotry, and discrimination are present in the protocols, practices, and behaviors of the APD, beginning with an assessment of the APD training academy; and WHEREAS, Kroll’s assessment of the APD Training Academy recommended: 1. The APD academy shift away from stress-oriented military-style curricula toward a resiliency- based approach supported by adult learning and student-centered instructions 2. That adoption of a “guardian” approach that emphasizes service to the community 3. That APD become an evidence-based learning organization that rigorously tests changes to its training and shares research findings with Academy staff to continually improve Academy curricula; and WHEREAS, Kroll’s assessment recommended several measures for immediate implementation, including (but not limited to): 1. Hiring and onboarding a Training Supervisor to work with the Division Manager in …
Agenda — original pdf
REGULAR MEETING of the MUSIC COMMISSION August 4, 2025 6:30 PM AUSTIN CITY HALL 301 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701 Some members of the Music Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Shelbi Mitchell, 512-974-6318, Shelbi.Mitchell@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Nagavalli Medicharla - Chair, Pedro Carvalho – Vice Chair, Joe Silva – Parliamentarian, Scott Strickland – Secretary, Nelson Aguilar, Tami Blevins, Clayton England, Cornice “Ray” Price Jr., Celeste Quesada AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Music Commission meeting on July 7, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Live Music Fund collections briefing by Kim McCarson, Program Manager, Music & Entertainment Division, Office of Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment. 3. FY23 Austin Live Music Fund final reports briefing by Erica Shamaly, Division Manager, Music & Entertainment Division. 4. History of AUS Airport music programming and transition to future programming with ACME briefing by Ramonika Carr, AUS Airport Guest Services Manager and Erica Shamaly, Division Manager, Music & Entertainment Division. DISCUSSION ITEMS 5. ACME funding guidelines update by Morgan Messick, Assistant Director, Office of Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment. 6. 2026 Bond Program public engagement and awareness update. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please the Economic Development Department, at 512-974-6318, call Shelbi Mitchell at Shelbi.Mitchell@austintexas.gov, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Music Commission, please contact Shelbi Mitchell at 512-974-6318, Shelbi.Mitchell@austintexas.gov.
Item #2 Austin Fire Department FY 25 Q3 Data — original pdf
Austin Fire Department | Public Safety Commission Quarterly Report July 22, 2025 Public Safety Commission Austin Fire Department Quarterly Report FY25 Q3 Data Fire Operations Requests for Service Q3 Comparison - By Council District (All incidents, regardless of priority) 6 6 2 3 , 4 6 0 3 , 9 6 0 3 , 2 1 9 2 , 6 5 3 3 , 6 1 3 3 , 8 3 1 4 , 9 3 6 3 , 5 3 7 2 , 9 6 3 2 , 8 9 3 2 , 8 7 2 2 , 3 4 7 2 , 2 4 7 2 , 0 1 7 1 , 2 4 6 1 , 3 7 3 1 , 5 8 4 1 , 6 6 8 1 , 3 3 9 1 , 4,500 4,000 3,500 3,000 2,500 2,000 1,500 1,000 500 0 District 1 District 2 District 3 District 4 District 5 District 6 District 7 District 8 District 9 District 10 FY24 Q3 FY25 Q3 Requests for Service Q3 Comparison - By Call Type (All incidents, regardless of priority) 1,420 1,220 FY25 Q3 FY24 Q3 17,726 17,581 138 133 158 134 6,985 6,539 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Fire Medical Rescue HazMat Other This document was created by the Austin Fire Department Research & Data Analytics section. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy. Austin Fire Department | Public Safety Commission Quarterly Report July 22, 2025 Emergency Incidents Q3 Comparison - By Council District (Includes Priority 1, 2, 3, and 4M responses) 3 9 0 2 , 0 7 9 1 , 6 3 7 1 , 5 1 8 1 , 1 5 1 2 , 2 7 1 2 , 4 4 8 1 , 8 1 6 1 , 2 2 5 1 , 1 4 4 1 , 8 2 6 1 , 3 1 6 1 , 1 5 0 1 , 1 7 0 1 , 2 7 0 2 , 8 9 8 1 , 3 0 8 2 5 8 0 1 0 1 , 7 9 9 2,500 2,000 1,500 1,000 500 0 District 1 District 2 District 3 District 4 District 5 District 6 District 7 District 8 District 9 District 10 FY24 Q3 FY25 Q3 Emergency Incidents Q3 Comparison - By Call Type (Includes …
Item #2 Austin Fire Department Q3 Presentation — original pdf
Austin Fire Rob Vires | Chief of Staff | Public Safety Commission Quarterly Presentation FY25 Q3 Central Texas Flooding Response • AFD’s first deployment was on July 4, sending three rescue swimmers to serve with the Texas Task Force 1 helicopter search and rescue team (HSART) to perform water rescues in San Angelo, Kerrville and Seguin. • During July 5-8, AFD deployed additional units and personnel, including: • On July 5 and 6, one battalion chief, a rescue truck and an AFD boat were assigned to assist ESD 1 with water rescue and search efforts. • Six additional personnel to augment Texas Task Force 1 • One Engine for drone assistance to Williamson County • Four Engines to Marble Falls/Burnet County to assist search and rescue • One Battalion Chief to Texas Department of Emergency Management to assist with communications infrastructure • Two-person drone team to Liberty Hill and Leander • During July 8-9, AFD sent a battalion chief and six units per day in support of search efforts in Marble Falls. Texas Task Force 1 performing search and rescue. Photos courtesy of AFD Public Information Office. FY25 Q3 | AUSTIN FIRE | PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION QUARTERLY PRESENTATION 2 Emergency Response Time Trends As the City of Austin grows – and the demand for fire services increases – response times continue to increase. 84,473 86,641 89,541 89,563 81,973 86,636 87,935 92,612 89,797 Incident Volume 103,626 109,280 110,304 108,750 FY12 FY13 FY14 FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24 89,101 FY25 YTD *incomplete year: Jan 1-July 18 8:41 8:43 8:51 9:00 9:13 Response Time Standard: 8 minutes Response Times 9:35 9:24 9:12 9:58 10:28 9:55 10:28 10:32 10:26 120,000 70,000 11:00 10:00 9:00 8:00 7:00 6:00 5:00 4:00 3:00 2:00 1:00 0:00 FY12 FY13 FY14 FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24 FY25 Q2 | AUSTIN FIRE | PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION QUARTERLY PRESENTATION FY25 YTD *incomplete year: Jan 1-July 18 3 Facility Improvement Projects Recently Completed Projects: • • • • Station 8 – Completed May 12, 2025 Station 20 – Completed May 12, 2025 Station 21 – Driveway replacement completed May 13, 2025 Station 29 – Completed May 12, 2025 Station 25 Projects Nearing Completion: • Station 23 • • All units and crews have returned as of May 17, 2025 Renovations complete pending a small number of warranty items • Station 25 • …