AUSTIN CONVENTION CENTER REDEVELOPMENT Austin is the 13th largest city in the country. But the Austin Convention Center is only the 61st largest. 2 Once the redevelopment is complete, we expect the Austin Convention Center to be around the 35th largest in the country. 3 The redeveloped Austin Convention Center will be larger than: Charlotte Fort Worth Baltimore Nashville Kansas City Pittsburgh Once complete, Austin’s new competitive set will include: San Antonio Boston Seattle Philadelphia Denver Project Overview Rentable Square Footage Total Budget $1.66B Annual Economic Impact $750M+ Construction Schedule April 2025-December 2028 EXISTING CONVENTION CENTER 365,000 SF NEW CONVENTION CENTER 620,000 SF + 140,000 SF in the future Funding HOT*, Convention Center Revenues, PFZ* *HOT: Hotel Occupancy Tax, PFZ: Project Financing Zone Our Partners Construction Schedule 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 3rd St. Electrical 3 R Red Line Station Chilled Water Loop AE Demo We are here Excavation Building Construction Closed April 2025 Open March 2029 PROJECT GOALS Austin City Council Resolution NO. 20210610-096 The City Council seeks to work with the prime architecture firm capable of delivering a world class design befitting a city of Austin’s size and prominence. The Convention Center design shall incorporate the most innovative ideas in programming and placemaking and shall aim to create a civic building that draws and serves Austinites as well as visitors. The City council affirms its intention that the convention Center be, like its companion civic building to the west, the Austin Central Library, a landmark of great distinction, a bustling and vital public gathering place, and a point of pride for the community. Uniquely Austin Sustainability ACC will be the world’s First Zero Carbon Certified Convention Center powered by 100% renewable energy and built with low-impact materials. Art in Public Places SCALE $17.7M TOTAL INVESTMENT Austin’s largest single investment in public art to date ARCHITECTURAL INTEGRATION 10 artists selected during schematic design of building for architecturally- integrated art Additional AIPP artwork will follow more traditional procurement timeline PRESENTING Outdoor Event + The Warehouse • Enhance Connections and Movements • Flexible Event & Gathering Places • Abundant Shade & Comfort • Reflect History of the Site and Materials • Extension of Warehouse District Scale E H T A G R THE BAC K YAR D FESTIVA L D A N E M O R P TH EWAREHOUS E E DISPLAY DROP- OFF BACKYARD PROMENAD E WAREHOUS E EXHAL …
Convention Center + Public Benefit Austin Convention Center + AACME March 2, 2026 Hotel Occupancy Tax Collections for Culture How HOT Revenue Supports Arts and Culture in Austin ▪ HOT funds come from visitors who stay in hotels ▪ HOT funds do not come from local property taxes ▪ State law allows up to 15% each for Cultural Arts + Historic Preservation (30% cap total) ▪ Austin is already at the cap ▪ The only way to grow the cultural allocation is to grow the base HOT revenue 3 Tourism Funding + The Creative Economy More visitors in Austin More hotel stays More Hotel Occupancy Tax collections More Cultural/Music/Heritage Funding 4 What Cultural Funding Supports Today ▪ Annually, the City receives $50+ million in requests for HOT funding: ▪ 2024: $22M in grants awarded to 532 artists & cultural organizations ▪ 2023: $16M in grants awarded to 673 artists & cultural organizations ▪ 2021: $5.7M in grants awarded to 356 artists & cultural organizations ▪ 2020: $11M in grants awarded to 361 artists & cultural organizations ▪ 2019: $11M in grants awarded to 361 artists & cultural organizations ▪ Grant funds flow to: ➢Music + Live Music Fund ➢Heritage Preservation projects ➢Cultural Arts Grants ➢Creative business support ➢Festivals + event production ➢Public art initiatives 5 Benefits to Austin & the Creative Community What are the risks of not completing the Convention Center? ▪ Losing potentially millions in: o Cultural funding tied to visitor revenue o Sales tax revenue ▪ Thousands of lost jobs in the hospitality industry, including local restaurants, retail, and other entertainment venues ▪ nearly $18 million in Art in Public Places (AIPP) opportunities would cease to exist if construction is stopped 7 Beyond the Revenue: Additional Benefits ▪ HOT revenue supports: ➢ Artists ➢ Local entertainment venues, retail, restaurants ➢ Local business, including creative sector ➢ Nonprofits ➢ Community cultural organizations ➢ Residents + tourists (access/experience) ▪ What are other community benefits? ➢ Affordable or subsidized event and meeting space for community groups, cultural organizations, and creative practitioners. ➢ Increased programming partnerships, including festivals, showcases, and creative industry events. ➢ Expanded tourism activity, which supports local performers, vendors, hospitality workers, and cultural venues. ➢ Long-term stabilization for cultural funding streams ➢ Public art opportunities at the Convention Center site ➢ Increased national profile for Austin’s creative sectors ➢ Spillover visitation to events, museums, venues, districts 8 Kick …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS MONDAY, MARCH 2, 2026, AT 6:30 PM AUSTIN CITY HALL BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W 2nd ST AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Nekaybaw Watson, 512-974-2562, nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS : Miriam Dorantes, Chair Adrian De La Rosa Aditi Joshi Diane Kanawati Melissa Ortega Caroline Solis AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Alondra Johnson, Vice-Chair Azeem Edwin Jeanne “Canan” Kaba Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch Meghna Roy Yohana Saucedo The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs regular meeting on February 2, 2026. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Update from the Quality-of-Life Study Working Group regarding progress with the Institutional Review Board, data collectors, and study practices. 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 trainings 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. …
COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2026 The Commission on Immigrant Affairs convened in a regular meeting on Monday, February 2, 2026, at 301 W 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Chair Dorantes called the meeting to order at 6:38pm. Commissioners in Attendance: Miriam Dorantes, Chair Azeem Edwin Diane Kanawati Caroline Solis Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Adrian De La Rosa Canan Kaba Meghna Roy Commissioners Absent: Alondra Johnson, Vice Chair Aditi Joshi Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch Melissa Ortega Yohana Saucedo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Ana Maria Rea - Mama Sana Vibrant Woman Alicia Torres - Policy Package 1 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs Regular Meeting on January 5, 2025. The minutes of the January 5, 2026, regular meeting of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was approved during the February 2, 2026, regular meeting on Commissioner Kanawati’s motion, Commissioner Edwin’s second on a 7-0 vote. Vice Chair Johnson, and Commissioners Joshi, Lincoln-Goldfinch, Ortega, and Saucedo were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation by American Gateways regarding successes with the City of Austin and its request for the prioritization of immigration funding in the FY 26-27 budget. Presentation by Rebecca Lightsey, Co-Executive Director, American Gateways. The presentation was given by Rebecca Lightsey, Co-Executive Director, American Gateways. 3. Discussion of a community concern around interactions between Austin Police with U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement. Discussed. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 4. Update from the Budget Working Group regarding areas of support and deadlines for the submission of budget recommendations. Update was provided by Chair Dorantes and Commissioner Kanawati. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a list of budget priorities for each commissioner’s district. Withdrawn. 6. Approve the Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ alternative representative for the Joint Inclusion Committee. The motion to approve Commissioner Edwin as the Joint Inclusion Committee alternate for the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was approved on Commissioner Edwin’s motion, Commissioner Kanawati’s second on a 7-0 vote. Vice Chair Johnson and Commissioners Joshi, Lincoln-Goldfinch, Ortega, and Saucedo were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Approve budget recommendations for FY 27 Budget. Approve a draft statement about board concerns for Immigration and Custom Enforcement. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned without objection at 8:04 on Chair Dorantes’ motion. 2
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20260302- 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: 20260302-004 : 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: 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 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: 20260302-006 : 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: 20260302-007 : 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: 20260302-008: 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: _____________________________________________
Immigration and Customs Enforcement Concerns DRAFT 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 allegedly 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.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL MONDAY, MARCH 2, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. VIRTUAL MEETING Art in Public Places Panel may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams. Public comment will be allowed remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once 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 in Public Places Manager Jaime Castillo at register jaime.castillo@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-7852. to speak remotely, contact Art CURRENT PANEL MEMBERS: Kristi-Anne Shaer, Chair Heidi Schmalbach, Arts Commission Liaison Bernardo Diaz Lindsey Millikan AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Andrew Danziger, Vice Chair Fatima Carbajal Camille Jobe The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Art in Public Places Panel Regular meeting on February 2, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding Art in Public Places Program, including Conservation, Current Projects and Milestones. Presentation by Jaime Castillo, Art in Public Places Manager, Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. Discussion of Arts Commission Liaison Report on Action Items from February 23, 2026, Arts Commission Meeting. Presentation by Heidi Schmalbach, Arts Commission Liaison. Discussion of the TEMPO 2025-2026 Artist Final Designs. Presentation by Mandi Thomas, Chief Operating Officer, The Trail Conservancy and Rebecca Rende, AIPP Coordinator Senior, Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment. 5. 6. 7. 8. Discussion of the Armadillo Water Tank Art in Public Places Project Mid-Design. Presentation by Bill Tavis, Art in Public Places Artist and Bryana Iglesias, AIPP Coordinator, Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment. Discussion of the Austin Convention Center Redevelopment (Phase 1) Art in Public Places Project Mid-Design. Presentation by Manik Nakra, Art in Public Places Artist and Ileana Yordan-Cuevas, AIPP Coordinator Senior, Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment. Discussion of the Austin Convention Center Redevelopment (Phase 1) Art in Public Places Project Mid-Design. Presentation by Betelhem Makonnen / SB Gaya Inc, Art in Public Places Artist and Ileana Yordan-Cuevas, AIPP Coordinator Senior, Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment. Discussion of the Art in Public Places Panel retreat …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW COMMISSION (CPRC) FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 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 Lauren Pena Kathryn Russell AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Laura Cortes Franco, Vice Chair Darrick Eugene Christopher Harris Lee Peterman 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 special called meeting of Friday, January 16, 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. Discussion of the Austin Police Department’s interaction with a community member, including the transfer to federal immigration authorities and questions about APD’s authority. Discussion of a potential recommendation to the Austin Police Department regarding General Orders 330 and its application to immigration-related interactions. Discussion of the Case Review Working Group (Commissioners Flood and Cortes), including progress to date, insights, and potential process changes. Discussion of Commissioners’ Review Working Groups A, B, and C regarding their experience reviewing case files, including a brief description of the review process and whether the groups are ready to present the following cases to the full Commission: 19-0792 (Deadly Use of Force), 24-1258 (Use of Force), 25-01308 (Bias-Based Policing), 2025-02113 (Improper Conduct), 2025-2341 (Use of Force), and 2025-2475 (Use of Force). DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 8. Discussion and election of a CPRC spokesperson and media relations officer. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of …
Community Police Review Commission – Meeting Minutes Friday, January 16, 2026 COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW COMMISSION (CPRC) REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 2026 The Community Police Review Commission convened for a regularly called meeting on Friday, January 16, 2026, at 3:00 PM at Austin City Hall, Council Chambers (1001), located at 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701. Laura Cortes Franco, Vice Chair, called the Community Police Review Commission meeting to order at 3:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Carlos Greaves, Chair Laura Cortes Franco, Vice Chair Ruben De La Paz Darrick Eugene Terry Flood Lauren Peña Lee Peterman Commissioners Absent: Bob Felton Christopher Harris Harold Powell Kathy Russell PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of the minutes of the Community Police Review Commission special called meeting of December 22, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes of the Community Police Review Commission special called meeting held on Monday, December 22, 2025, was made by Carlos Greaves, Chair, seconded by Lauren Peña, and passed with a 7-0 vote. The following commissioners were absent, Bob Felton, Christopher Harris, Harold Powell, and Kathy Russell. 1 Community Police Review Commission – Meeting Minutes Friday, January 16, 2026 STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding progress of work with the Police Technology Unit on an internal drive for the CPRC to access case files. Ryan Alvarez, with Austin Police Oversight and serving as CPRC staff liaison, provided an update on the development of a SharePoint internal drive to allow CPRC direct access to case files. Staff reported that initial storage limitations (30-40 GB) prevented all files from being uploaded. After coordination with the Police Technology Unit (PTU), storage was expanded to one terabyte, and all case files including body-worn camera footage were verified and uploaded. Commissioners asked questions regarding verification and completeness of files. Staff clarified that the files transferred from Internal Affairs to SharePoint represent the full case file, with only CJI information redacted. Commissioners noted the importance of having a process to verify that all files are present, and staff agreed to explore procedures to implement checks and balances. 3. Staff briefing regarding the Executive Liaison monthly update from Austin Police Oversight Director Gail McCant. Gail McCant, Director of Austin Police Oversight (APO), provided the monthly update. Legal counsel Neal Falgoust was unable to attend the meeting, he will address outstanding requests as soon as possible. Commissioners discussed the importance of …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2026 AT 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1401/1402 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Joint Inclusion Committee may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Ryan Sperling, 512-974-3568, ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov CURRENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Member Commission: African American Resource Advisory Commission Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Commission for Women Commission on Aging Commission on Immigrant Affairs Commission on Veterans Affairs Early Childhood Council Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Human Rights Commission LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Primary Representative: Justin Parsons Alternate Representative: Alexandria Anderson Nirali J Thakkar Nayer Sikder Diana Melendez Richard Bondi (Vice Chair) VACANT Bryce F Laake-Stanfield Craig McNary Amanda Afifi (Chair) Becky Bullard Teresa Ferguson Diane Kanawati Christopher Wilson Delphi Alvizo Dulce Castaneda Tannya Oliva-Martínez Jerry Joe Benson VACANT KC Coyne Lisa Chang Conor H. Kelly AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Joint Inclusion Committee regular meeting on January 28, 2026. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Staff briefing on Social Service Contract funding to inform the Commission’s prioritization efforts. Briefing by Kerri Lang, Director, and Daniel Culotta, Assistant Director, Office of Budget & Organizational Excellence. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. Discussion on City budget announcements and activities. Discussion following up on January questions for the Office of Equity and Inclusion. Discussion to compile questions from commissioners to ask Austin Police Department staff. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 6. Report from the Texas Legislative Working Group regarding legislation affecting the Joint Inclusion Committee and its member commissions, and suggested follow-up advocacy. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. Approve a recommendation regarding a moratorium on human services funding reductions pending an inclusive, equity-based program review. Approve a recommendation regarding PARD accessibility and cultural inclusion …
JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, January 28, 2026 JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28, 2026 The Joint Inclusion Committee convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1401/1402, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. in Austin, TX. Chair Afifi called the Joint Inclusion Meeting to order at 6:13 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Amanda Afifi (Chair) Richard Bondi (Vice Chair) Bryce Laake-Stanfield Craig McNary Justin Parsons Tannya Oliva-Martínez Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Jerry Joe Benson Lisa Chang Diane Kanawati Diana Melendez PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Dr. Aaron Alarcon – Cuts to Social Services Hector Ordaz – Budget, Arts/Culture APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Joint Inclusion Committee regular meeting on December 3. 2025. The minutes were approved on Commissioner Laake-Stanfield’s motion, Commissioner Parsons’ second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner McNary was off the dais. Commissioners Thakkar and Sikder were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1 JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, January 28, 2026 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 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. The presentation was made by Rebecca Lightsey, Co-Executive Director, American Gateways Discussion regarding feedback on the January 21st Budget Town Hall. Discussed. Discussion regarding the timeline of the City’s budget process and impacts to commission recommendations. Discussed. Discussion regarding the changes in the structure of Austin Equity & Inclusion over the last year. Discussed. Discussion regarding Austin Police Department and protest response. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. 8. Approve changes to working group membership. Without objection, Craig McNary was added to the APD Office of the Community Liaison Working Group and Emergency Preparedness Working Group. Approve amendments to the JIC 2026 Annual Meeting Schedule. Discussion was held. No action was taken. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 9. 10. Report from the Budget Follow-up Working Group regarding City response and implementation of commission recommendations. Withdrawn without objection. Update from the FY2026-27 Budget Working Group regarding collaboration on home commission budget recommendation drafts and topics. Withdrawn without objection. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Final report from Texas Legislative Session Working Group – Afifi Formation of a new Texas Legislative Session Working Group - Oliva-Martínez Discussion regarding questions to ask APD – Laake-Stanfield ADJOURNMENT Chair Afifi adjourned the meeting at 8:08 p.m. without objection. 2
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Joint Inclusion Committee Recommendation Number 20260226-011: Elisabet Ney Museum Accessible Restroom Facility WHEREAS, the Elisabet Ney Museum is undergoing restoration and improvements; WHEREAS, the Museum lacks an accessible restroom as described in the Americans with Disabilities Act; WHEREAS, plans have been created for an accessible restroom to be constructed as part of the restoration and improvements, in partnership with the Friends of Elisabet Ney Museum, although funding and support for the addition is still being sought; and WHEREAS, the Committee has decided to recommend to the Austin City Council that it support the construction of an ADA accessible restroom to allow all visitors to fully enjoy the Museum. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Joint Inclusion Committee encourages the Austin City Council to allocate funds towards constructing the ADA accessible restroom at the Ney Museum. Seconded By: Date of Approval: Motioned By: Vote: For: Against: Abstain: Off the dais: Absent: Attest: _____________________________________________
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Joint Inclusion Committee Recommendation Number 20260226-012: Budget Recommendation to the City Council regarding Awebility Festival WHEREAS, Commissioner Gabriel Arellano of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities will coordinate a festival celebrating individuals with disabilities and raising awareness, the Awebility Festival; WHEREAS, the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities sponsors this festival with its support; WHEREAS, this festival was coordinated successfully in fall 2025 with limited resources, but desires the City of Austin’s financial support to expand its impact; and WHEREAS, the Awebility Festival will have an outsized impact relative to the cost of support and will help build a stronger community around people with disabilities. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Joint Inclusion Committee encourages the Austin City Council to allocate funds towards the Awebility Festival for 2026. Seconded By: Date of Approval: Motioned By: Vote: For: Against: Abstain: Off the dais: Absent: Attest: _____________________________________________
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Joint Inclusion Committee Recommendation Number: 20260226-013: Budget Recommendation to the City Council regarding Therapeutic Recreation Program WHEREAS, the City of Austin sponsors the Therapeutic Recreation Program through the Parks and Recreation Department providing activity-based interventions to improve the cognitive, physical, emotional, and social functioning of individuals with disabilities; WHEREAS, the Therapeutic Recreation Program is held at parks around the city, often serving under resourced members of the community; WHEREAS, constituents have raised concerns about wait list times and limited locations of the program, which creates barriers to participation for those that need it most; and WHEREAS, additional funding could expand locations and improve services. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Joint Inclusion Committee encourages the Austin City Council to allocate additional funds to the Therapeutic Recreation Program with the goal of expanding the locations of services and reducing wait list times. Seconded By: Date of Approval: Motioned By: Vote: For: Against: Abstain: Off the dais: Absent: Attest: _____________________________________________
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Joint Inclusion Committee Recommendation Number: 20260226-007: Moratorium on Human Services Funding Reductions Pending an Inclusive, Equity-based Program Review WHEREAS, the City has publicly described Imagine Austin—first adopted by Council in 2012—as a 30- year plan that maps out a vision of Austin as “a beacon of sustainability, social equity, and economic opportunity; where diversity and creativity are celebrated; where community needs and values are recognized; where leadership comes from its citizens; and where the necessities of life are affordable and accessible to all”1; and WHEREAS, the Planning Department’s current Imagine Austin update briefing materials describe Imagine Austin as the City’s comprehensive plan and “a guide for long-term growth, development, and land use decisions,”2 and note the plan was initially adopted in 2012 as a 30-year plan; and WHEREAS, the City’s Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan Update memorandum states that Imagine Austin “guides City decision-making when setting goals and policies.”3 reinforcing its relevance to City budget and service decisions; and WHEREAS, the Citywide Strategic Plan identifies “Strategic Anchors” that guide City decision- making, including Equity and Sustainability & Resiliency, and defines equity as ensuring “every member of the community has a fair opportunity to live a long, healthy, and meaningful life”4; and WHEREAS, the same Citywide Strategic Plan defines sustainability as balancing three goal areas—“(1) prosperity and jobs, (2) conservation and the environment, and (3) community health, equity, and cultural vitality”,5 directly linking sustainability to community health and equity outcomes supported by human services; and WHEREAS, the Citywide Strategic Plan includes Proactive Prevention as a Strategic Anchor and states that prevention includes “addressing social determinants of health outcomes, rather than only treating 1 City Embarks on Community-Wide Effort to Update Imagine Austin | AustinTexas.gov 2 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=424906&utm 3 Ibid. 4 FY25_Proposed_Bgt_Citywide_Strategic_Plan.pdf, pp. 2–3 5 FY25_Proposed_Bgt_Citywide_Strategic_Plan.pdf, p. 3 Page 1 of 3 the disease”,6 underscoring the importance of services that prevent crises and reduce long-term costs; and WHEREAS, the City’s age-friendly work is an established City priority, including implementation functions housed within Austin Public Health and updates to the Age-Friendly Austin Action Plan (as described in the City Auditor’s report on City Services for Older Adults)7; and WHEREAS, Austin Public Health has adopted goals to “prevent disease, promote health, and protect the well-being of all,” including promoting healthy behaviors across life stages and preventing and controlling chronic disease and risk factors, goals that are advanced by effective community-based human services (Austin Public …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Joint Inclusion Committee Recommendation Number: 20260226-008: PARD Accessibility and Cultural Inclusion Across Demographics - Budget Neutral WHEREAS, the Austin Older Adult Quality of Life Study states that it gathered a "statistically generalizable representation of historically marginalized voices, identified for purposeful sampling.”1 including Asian American and Asian immigrant older adults; Black or African American older adults; LGBTQIA+ older adults; older adults with disabilities; and older adults living at or below 60% of Austin’s Median Family Income; and WHEREAS, the study further found that "LGBTQIA+ populations report the highest isolation scores across all demographic categories.”2 demonstrating disparities affecting access to recreation and participation; and WHEREAS, the study reports that “lower-income groups earning $10,000–$49,999 show consistently elevated isolation,”3 highlighting the importance of accessible and culturally relevant programming; and WHEREAS, focus group findings reported that older adults experience "access barriers (e.g. language, disability, technology) that prevent relationship-building and community participation,”4 demonstrating the importance of accessibility and inclusion; and WHEREAS, the Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan establishes the City’s vision of Austin as "a beacon of sustainability, social equity and economic opportunity.”5 providing policy support for equitable access; and WHEREAS, the City Council adopted the Parks and Recreation Department Long Range Plan as an amendment to Imagine Austin, establishing the official blueprint guiding parks and recreation planning6; and 1 Austin Older Adult Quality of Life Study, November 2025, p.5 2 Austin Older Adult Quality of Life Study, November 2025, p.123 3 Ibid. 4 Austin Older Adult Quality of Life Study, November 2025, p.43 5 Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan, June 15, 2012, p. 198 6 Our Parks, Our Future Long Range Plan | AustinTexas.gov 7 Age-Friendly Austin Action Plan Amendment, September 2025 Page 1 of 2 WHEREAS, Age-Friendly Austin planning materials identify social participation and accessible public spaces as essential components supporting healthy aging and equitable inclusion7. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE RECOMMENDS: 1. Budget-Neutral Accessibility Improvements. The Parks and Recreation Department incorporate accessibility improvements into existing programs through operational adjustments that reduce barriers affecting lower-income older adults, LGBTQIA+ older adults, older adults with disabilities, and culturally diverse populations without requiring additional appropriations. 2. Budget-Neutral Cultural Inclusion Improvements. PARD strengthen cultural inclusion through partnerships, inclusive practices, and outreach within existing operational structures. 3. Alignment With Adopted City Plans. These actions shall align with Imagine Austin, the PARD Long Range Plan, and the Age-Friendly Austin framework. 4. Budget-Neutral Implementation. Implementation shall …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Joint Inclusion Committee Recommendation Number: 20260226-009: Improving Job and Volunteer Access for Older Adults Across Demographics – Budget Neutral WHEREAS, the City of Austin has stated that the Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan—adopted by City Council in 2012—guides City decision-making when setting goals and policies1; and WHEREAS, the Imagine Austin vision states that Austin is “a beacon of sustainability, social equity and economic opportunity… where community needs and values are recognized… and where the necessities of life are affordable and accessible to all”2; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin Office of the City Auditor reports that cities prioritize being inclusive for people as they age because “older people are a valuable resource for their families and communities”3; and WHEREAS, the City Auditor found that the City “does not have clear outreach about programs and services for older adults.”4 and that as a result “older adults may not be able to find what they need.”5 indicating improvement opportunities through clearer, more consistent outreach and navigation of existing services; and WHEREAS, the City Auditor found that the City provides services to older adults across multiple departments, and that the Age-Friendly Program Coordinator works across departments and “with over 30 community organizations”6 supporting older adults—demonstrating an existing coordination and partner infrastructure the City can leverage; and WHEREAS, the Quality of Life Study “gathered an ambitious and statistically generalizable representation of historically marginalized voices, identified for purposeful sampling by the collaborative study planning process and partners, including: Asian American and Asian immigrant older adults, Black or African American older adults, LGBTQIA+ older adults, Latino or Hispanic older adults, Older adults 1 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=430726 2 https://www.austintexas.gov/sites/default/files/files/Imagine_Austin/IA_InfographicConnections.pdf 3 City_Services_for_Older_Adults_October_2022.pdf 4 Ibid. 5 Ibid. 6 Ibid. Page 1 of 3 with disabilities, Older adults living at or below 60% of Austin's Median Family Income, Older adults living in all ten City Council districts, and Older adults living alone”7; and WHEREAS, the Austin Older Adult Quality of Life Study found that “19% of older adults report wanting to work but are unable to find a job”8, further that this “group, is disproportionately represented among lower-income residents, highlighting the intersection of economic need and barriers to employment,” 9and identified barriers including ageism, functional limitations, and transportation challenges10; and WHEREAS, the Austin Older Adult Quality of Life Study found that 17% of older adults experienced discrimination in places they visit regularly and 13% do not feel safe in their neighborhoods11, …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE JOINT SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25TH, 2026, AT 6 PM CITY HALL, COUNCIL CHAMBERS 301 W 2ND ST AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Joint Sustainability Committee may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by remotely, contact Rohan Lilauwala telephone. To (rohan.lilauwala@austintexas.gov or 512-974-9394). to speak register CURRENT JOINT SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE MEMBERS Home Commission Electric Utility Commission Resource Management Commission Urban Transportation Commission Environmental Commission Zero Waste Advisory Commission Community Development Commission Austin Travis County Food Policy Board Economic Prosperity Commission Water & Wastewater Commission Parks & Recreation Board Design Commission Planning Commission Austin/Travis County Public Health Commission City Council Mayor’s Representative Mayor’s Representative Mayor’s Representative Mayor’s Representative Mayor’s Representative Alternate Al Braden Member Kaiba White (Chair) Charlotte Davis (Vice-Chair) GeNell Gary Varun Prasad Haris Qureshi Vacant Vacant Andrew Smith Aaron Gonzales Chris Maxwell-Gaines Lane Becker Jon Salinas Josh Hiller Chris Crookham Justin Jacobson Vacant Vacant Vacant Marissa Bell Zain Pleuthner Amanda Marzullo Shelby Orme Evgenia Murkes Peter Breton Vacant Vacant Rodrigo Leal Anna Scott Mridula Madipakkam Christopher Campbell Diana Wheeler Vacant N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 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 Joint Sustainability Committee Regular Meeting on January 28th, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. Staff briefing on Refrigerant Management. Presentation by Molly Ellsworth and Phillip Duran, Austin Climate Action and Resilience. Staff briefing on the Comprehensive Climate Implementation Program. Presentation by Braden Latham-Jones, Austin Climate Action and Resilience. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. 5. 6. Approve a recommendation related to climate and sustainability in the FY26 City of Austin Budget. Approve a recommendation related to climate and sustainability in the 2026 bond. Approve a recommendation related to Gas Conservation Programs. DISCUSSION ITEMS 7. 8. Update regarding Austin Water’s Emergency Management; and Q4 report on Water Management Strategy Implementation – Chris Maxwell-Gaines, Water and …
JOINT SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES Nov 19, 2025 The Joint Sustainability Committee convened in a hybrid meeting via videoconferencing and at Austin Energy HQ. Board Members in Attendance in Person: Kaiba White, Anna Scott, Iris Suddaby, Mridula Madipakkam, Charlotte Davis Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Josh Hiller, Lane Becker, Aaron Gonzales, Varun Prasad, Lane Becker, Rodrigo Leal, Chris Crookham Board Members Absent: Chris Campbell, Chris Maxwell-Gaines, Jon Salinas City Staff in Attendance: Rohan Lilauwala, Phillip Duran CALL TO ORDER Chair Kaiba White called the meeting to order at 6:10 pm. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Joint Sustainability Committee Regular Meeting on November 19, 2025. a. Scott motion, Suddaby second, passes on a 11-0 vote with Crookham off the dais. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on Carbon Offsets. Presentation by Phillip Duran, Austin Climate Action and Resilience. a. White: how much do we spend annually? i. Duran: don’t have exact numbers, but estimating $50-60k annual, will follow up later. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Approve the creation of working groups for FY27 City of Austin Budget, funding, and priority policy recommendations. a. How can we be more effective? i. JSC has spent a lot of time working on budget recommendations in the past with mixed success ii. Thematic/refined recommendations, immediate impact, small dollar wins, fewer items, most effective GHG reduction strategies, identify funding sources iii. We have the staff response to past recommendations iv. Motion to create a budget working group (members: Scott (chair) Becker, Leal, Gonzales, Davis, White, Suddaby, Madipakkam) 1. Motioned by White, Davis second, passes 12-0 4. Approve a recommendation related to climate and sustainability in the FY26 City of Austin Budget. a. Conversation had as part of Item #3 5. Approve a recommendation related to climate and sustainability in the 2026 bond. a. Not a lot of carbon-negative items in the bond b. Uncertainty around scale/scope c. Interest in ARR charging, sidewalks/bike lanes, battery storage d. Should highlight cost-effective measures e. Overarching recommendations 6. Approve a recommendation related to Leak Detection and Repair in the Texas Gas Service Franchise Agreement. a. Davis motion, Gonzales second, passes 11-0 with Scott recusing. b. Davis motion, Suddaby second to amend: i. #3 should say ‘Austin Metropolitan area’ instead of city ii. Additional bullet under #3 – the number of leaks repaired and analysis of (DOUBLE CHECK RECORDING) iii. #4 …
Refrigerant Management Agenda 01 Background on refrigerants 02 Motivation for this work 03 Project scope, progress, and lessons 04 Next steps 2 What are refrigerants Refrigerants are the chemicals that make cooling equipment work HVACs, freezers, car ACs, heat pumps, whole building chillers, and district energy Cooling solutions are part of local heat resilience efforts Refrigerants also support grid decarbonization through electrification (heat pumps, district energy) 3 History of refrigerants 1987 Montreal Protocol 1987 • Began phasing out ozone-depleting refrigerants or chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) • Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) replaced CFCs. Unknown at the time, HFCs are often highly potent greenhouse gases (like R-11, R-22, more) • Montreal Protocol amended in 2016 to address this → American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act CFCs:Impact the ozone HFCs: Impact the climate 4 Climate Equity Plan Alignment By 2030, reduce community-wide greenhouse gas emissions from refrigerant leakage by 25% ★ Strategy 1: Capture and destroy old refrigerants ★ Strategy 2: Improve building codes to encourage cleaner refrigerants ★ Strategy 3: Create incentives for leak detection and repair ★ Strategy 4: Awareness and training for HVAC service providers ★ Strategy 5: Reduce the volume of refrigerants 5 Austin’s Carbon Footprint 2024 • Refrigerants small but high-impact share of emissions • Growing cooling demand increases risk of emissions • Refrigerant management is a near-term climate action opportunity 36% 11.5M MT CO2e 31% 10% 5% 9% 9% ~575k MT CO2e 6 Insights from Climate Implementation AIM Act American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act • Federal law (EPA) to reduce HFC production and consumption • Phases down HFCs by 85% by 2036 What Does the AIM Act Mean for the City? Previously only applied to the largest appliances (50+ lbs refrigerants) As of January 2026, applies to smaller appliances with 15lbs of refrigerants (like AC units at mid-sized buildings) AIM Act Requirements: • Leak detection and repair • Recordkeeping and reporting 8 Additional Background on Project City of Austin is a early mover Few, if any, local governments are acting here Refrigerants are a JSC priority Budget recommendations in FY24 and FY25 Emerging climate action Emerging climate action comes with complexity – AIM Act, partner awareness / buy-in, more This is the first step Refrigerant management will be an ongoing effort at COA and throughout the community 9 Addressing Refrigerant Management Project Scope and Progress 10 Contract with Refrigerant Management Solutions Project Scope Internal Goals: • Inventory existing refrigerant-containing appliances …
Comprehensive Climate Implementation Program Joint Sustainability Committee – February 25, 2026 Agenda 01 Council Direction & Purpose 02 CCIP Structure 03 Implementation in Practice 04 Opportunities & Benefits 05 2026 Priorities 2 Council Direction • Resolution 20240718-093 • Bring forward a “comprehensive climate implementation program…” • “…that shall provide a detailed and thorough means for investing in our climate.” 3 Comprehensive Climate Implementation Program Two-year Implementation Plan Public document with climate projects achievable between 2025-2027 Programmatic Adjustments Organizational restructure aimed at successful implementation 4 The two-year Implementation Plan (25’-27’) 46 ACTIONS Sustainable Buildings: 13 Transportation & Land Use: 8 Transportation Electrification: 4 Food & Product Consumption: 7 Natural Systems: 4 + 10 Foundational Actions 5 Action Progress Highlights Implementation Plan (25’-27’) 01 02 03 04 Solar on City Facilities Fleet Electrification Green Building Policy Revision Climate Revolving Fund + Continuing progress across multiple actions 6 Climate Cabinet CART Delivery Teams ● “Steering Committee” ● Strategic oversight/direction ● SPOCs from 20+ depts ● Monthly meetings ● Coordination & collaboration ● Professional networking ● Quarterly meetings ● Cross-functional teams for project- based work ● Implementing our climate and resilience goals ● Built/dissolved as- needed 7 What is the “CART”? • A large, inclusive group of City staff coming together for coordination, networking, education, and information sharing. • Focused on making progress towards meeting Austin’s climate and resilience goals. • Outcome-driven, with buy-in from and two-way communication with leadership. “Climate Cabinets” ▪ Emerging best practice in climate implementation ▪ “Whole-of-government” approach ▪ Climate embedded within each department, breaking down silos and increasing coordination ▪ Efficient implementation through reducing redundancy, overlapping duties ▪ Streamlined project management and problem-solving ▪ Examples: Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Boston 9 Primary Duties of ATX’s Climate Cabinet ▪ Coordinating Citywide climate action ▪ Driving implementation on City plans and priorities ▪ Guiding CART agendas and projects ▪ Tracking and managing progress on “Delivery Teams" ▪ Responding to CMO/MAC action and direction ▪ Adjusting, amending, and evaluating current approaches to CCIP 1 0 What is a “Delivery Team” • A cross-departmental implementation tool for climate and resilience priorities that cannot be delivered by a single department • Enable targeted, coordinated action on complex climate priorities • Criteria for creation include: • Executive Support • Cross-departmental requirement • Connection to adopted priorities • • Clearly defined outcomes & Time-bound deadlines 11 Combined Efforts Leadership in the Climate Space Climate & Environment Leadership …
Joint Sustainability Committee RECOMMENDATION 20260228-XXX Subject: FY 2027Joint Sustainability Committee Budget Recommendations WHEREAS a changing climate presents both a costly disruption and an urgent threat to Austinites way of life; and WHEREAS in 2021, Council approved the Austin Climate Equity Plan that provided 74 strategies to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions equitably by 2040; and WHEREAS Austin FY2027 faces an estimated budget shortfall of $54 M; and WHEREAS Austin is considering the FY2026 budget; AND WHEREAS Council Resolution 20250522-052 directs the City Manager to calculate any energy cost savings or revenue generated annually, realized by solar generation installed on City facilities for departmental use and utilize an equivalent amount of funding for projects that have a beneficial environmental impact, beginning with those identified in the Climate Implementation Plan; and WHEREAS analysis performed by ACAR and presented to the Bond Election Advisory Task Force - Transportation & Electrification Working Group on 10/15/25 in consideration of the CCIP demonstrated that spending on fleet vehicle electrification nets a carbon savings of -28$ per ton of carbon dioxide avoided; and WHEREAS that same analysis demonstrated that rooftop solar nets a carbon savings of -y$ per ton of carbon dioxide avoided, The JSC recommends the following for the upcoming FY2027 budget: 1. No Cuts to ACAR: Recommend that no positions within Austin Climate Action and Resilience be eliminated, reclassified or moved to other departments. Many departments ask ACAR for assistance in developing programs and policies needed to implement the Austin Climate Equity Plan. The department’s workload is only increasing and there already isn't capacity to do all the needed work. 2. Climate Revolving Fund Implementation: Recommend that Council ensure that the Climate Revolving Fund established by Resolution 20250813-022 in August 2025 is formerly in place and that all appropriate savings are directed to it and that ACAR staff have authority to direct their use for appropriate projects. This fund is supposed to enable investments in city buildings that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Many such investments will lead to more financial savings for the City. 3. Environmentally Sustainable Purchasing: Recommend adding a Sustainable Purchasing Program Manager FTE within Austin Climate and Resilience to establish a comprehensive environmentally sustainable purchasing policy and work with Financial Services to implement it and train all employees who are authorized to make purchases for the city. The City of Austin Climate Equity Plan Food & Product Consumption Goal 2 says …
JOINT SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION 20260225-XX Recommendation on Energy Conservation Programs in Texas Gas Service Franchise Agreement WHEREAS, the City of Austin has a 20-year franchise agreement with Texas Gas Service (TGS), which is the Company’s license to operate in the City’s right of way; and WHEREAS, Texas Gas Service (TGS) has been planning and operating Residential energy conservation incentive programs that do not pay for themselves in reduced fuel costs or reduced fuel consumption; and WHEREAS, some of these conservation programs appear to be aimed at marketing gas appliances rather than improving energy efficiency; and WHEREAS, Austin Energy already runs similar conservation programs for energy efficiency building improvements and serves most of the same customers as TGS; and WHEREAS, there is precedent for the City of Austin to operate a gas utility conservation program, which was done between 1987 and 1997; and WHEREAS, TGS is currently in violation of its franchise, which requires it to implement energy conservation programs as part of its normal operations; and NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT The Joint Sustainability Committee recommends that the City implement the following policies as part of the Texas Gas Service franchise agreement: ● Austin should take over planning and management of TGS conservation programs as part of the new franchise agreements, with charges for gas conservation programs paid by TGS. ● These funds should be collected with either an increased franchise fee specific to each rate class of customers or a bill rider similar to the Texas Gas Service’s Conservation Adjustment Charge or Austin Energy’s Community Benefits Charges. The funds from an increased franchise fee or bill rider can be allowed to change from year to year, with a not-to-exceed amount or percentage. ● All previously collected but unspent conservation funds and previously purchased equipment for implementation of the Texas Gas Service program should be transferred to the City of Austin for continued operation of the programs. Previously collected TGS conservation funds should be directed towards low-income home weatherization.
JOINT SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION 20260225-005 Sustainability in Bond Proposals WHEREAS, the purpose of the Joint Sustainability Committee is “to advise the council on matters related to conservation and sustainability; and review City policies and procedures relevant to the Austin Community Climate Plan and the Austin Climate Equity Plan, including planning, implementation, community engagement, goal setting, and progress monitoring”; and WHEREAS, it is the duty of the Joint Sustainability Committee to “promote close cooperation between the council, City management, City boards, commissions, committees, and taskforces, and individuals, institutions, and agencies concerned with the politics, procedures, and implementation of the Austin Community Climate Plan and the Austin Climate Equity Plan with the goal of coordinating all similar activities within the City and the community in order to secure the greatest public benefit”; and WHEREAS, the climate crisis continues to worsen each year and the window of opportunity to preserve a livable climate is rapidly closing as climate tipping points are likely already being reached; and WHEREAS, on July 18, 2024, the Austin City Council adopted a resolution stating “The City Manager is directed to bring to Council two items: 1) a comprehensive bond package that funds and addresses climate, infrastructure, and any other public improvements for the purpose of conducting an election no later than November 2026, and 2) a comprehensive climate implementation program of which one component is a climate bond proposition contained in the comprehensive bond package.” and WHEREAS, the Austin Climate Action and Resilience department has identified city fleet vehicle electrification as the most cost-effective strategy for reducing the city’s greenhouse gas emissions, and calculated that reducing emissions using this strategy saves the city $41 per ton of avoided emissions; and WHEREAS, heavy duty vehicles with diesel engines are dangerous for the Austin community because they create hazardous particulate matter and other pollution harmful to human health - especially children, the elderly and those with respiratory and cardiac conditions - in addition to greenhouse gas emissions; and WHEREAS, additional charging infrastructure, especially for heavy-duty vehicles - including refuse trucks, is needed to enable the City of Austin fleet to transition from polluting internal combustion engine vehicles to zero emissions electric vehicles, and is itself one of the most cost-effective ways for the city to reduce greenhouse gas emissions; and WHEREAS, City of Austin staff have identified electric vehicle charging infrastructure as eligible for voter-approved general obligation bonds; and WHEREAS, …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE ETHICS REVIEW COMMISSION FEBRUARY 25, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM, #1101 301 W 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Ethics Review Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public 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 Lizette Benitez at (512) 974-2915 or Lizette.benitez@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: William Ross Pumfrey, Chair Luis Figueroa Haksoon Andrea Low Cynthia Soliz Brittany Sharkey, Vice Chair Patrick Keel Wallace Lundgren District 5 – Vacancy District 1 – Vacancy William King Brian McGiverin 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. EXECUTIVE SESSION The Ethics Review Commission may announce it will go into Executive Session pursuant to Chapter 551.071 of the Texas Government Code to receive advice from legal counsel on any matter listed in this agenda. 1. The Ethics Review Commission may announce it will go into Executive Session pursuant to Chapter 551.071 of the Texas Government Code to receive advice from legal counsel to discuss: A complaint filed by Andrew Rivera against T.C. Broadnax raising claimed violations of City Code Section 2-7-62 (I) (Standards of Conduct). PRELIMINARY HEARING 2. A complaint filed by Andrew Rivera against T.C. Broadnax raising claimed violations of City Code Section 2-7-62 (I) (Standards of Conduct). Page 1 of 2 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 3. 4. Approve the minutes of the Ethics Review Commission Regular Called meeting on September 24, 2025. Approve the minutes of the Ethics Review Commission Regular Called meeting on January 28, 2026. 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 …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE ECONOMIC PROSPERITY COMMISSION FEBRUARY 25, 2026, 6:30PM PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, 1401 & 1402 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Economic Prosperity Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Ryan Sperling, 512-974-3568, ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Commissioner Appointment Nicole Tomaszewski Ofelia Zapata District 1 District 2 Raquel Valdez Sanchez (Vice Chair) District 3 Michael Nahas Rodrigo Cantu Shakeel Rashed District 4 District 5 District 6 Commissioner Zain Pleuthner VACANT Appointment District 7 District 8 Aaron Gonzales (Chair) District 9 Aditi Joshi Jake Randall District 10 Mayor 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 Economic Prosperity Commission Regular Meeting on January 21, 2026. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion regarding the city’s FY 2026-27 budget process. 3. Discussion regarding the city’s boards & commissions bylaw amendment process. 4. 5. Discussion regarding priority policy areas for potential Working Groups. Update on outreach efforts regarding Recommendation 20251119-010: Pensions and OPEB Benefits DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve a revised version of Recommendation 20251119-010: Pensions and OPEB Benefits based on additional information received from stakeholders. 7. Approve an impact assessment framework and recommendation approval guidelines for the Economic Prosperity Commission. 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 Ryan Sperling at Austin City Clerk’s Office, at 512- 974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov, to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Economic Prosperity Commission, please contact Ryan Sperling at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov.
ECONOMIC PROSPERITY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2026 The Economic Prosperity Commission convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at Austin City Hall, 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Gonzales called the Economic Prosperity Commission Meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Aaron Gonzales, Chair Raquel Valdez Sanchez, Vice-Chair Aditi Joshi Michael Nahas Jacob Randall Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Zain Pleuthner Shakeel Rashed Ofelia Zapata PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Economic Prosperity Commission Regular Meeting on December 17, 2025. The minutes from the Economic Prosperity Commission regular meeting on December 17, 2025 were approved on Commissioner Nahas’ motion, Vice Chair Valdez Sanchez’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Zapata was off the dais. Commissioners Cantu and Tomaszewski were absent. 1 DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. Discussion regarding potential goals and topics for future working groups and recommendations. Discussion was held. Discussion regarding upcoming council initiatives relevant to the Economic Prosperity Commission. Discussion was held. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Presentation by Commissioner Randall and possible approval of an impact assessment framework and recommendation approval guidelines. The presentation was made by Commissioner Randall. Discussion was held. No action was taken. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Update from Commissioner Nahas on outreach for recent commission recommendation Discussion and Possible Action on revisions to commission recommendations ADJOURNMENT Chair Gonzales adjourned the meeting at 8:28 p.m. without objection. 2
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Economic Prosperity Commission Recommendation Number: 20260225-006 : Revised Version of Pensions and OPEB Benefits Recommendation Rationale: The following is an update to the Economic Prosperity Commission’s update regarding Pensions. This document should be the authoritative document regarding the Commission’s stance should it be enacted and voted on by a majority of commission members. This recommendation that was previously made has been updated to reflect community input and feedback since the initial vote as well as new information that was not known regarding this issue at the time it was introduced. Given the large amount of information that is still not known by commission members regarding this issue, given that none of us are licensed financial auditors with retirement planning experience, and the economic impact and significance on everyday city employees’ lives, we have removed many provisions from the previous recommendation. In addition, we have learned that the status of city pensions has changed since the Annual Financial Comprehensive report was issued. Many of the provisions that remain from the initial recommendation cover reporting, given the potential impact on the city’s financial health, we believe that more information will be helpful for all community leaders and elected officials to earlier identify periods of misaligned financial expectations and potential risks. Recommendation: WHEREAS, City Council created the Economic Prosperity Commission to advise the council on matters related to job creation and the City of Austin is one of the largest employers in Austin and retirement benefits make up a large percentage of the compensation of City of Austin employees. WHEREAS, City Council the financial health of the City of Austin’s government is a signal used by employers to decide where to create jobs. WHEREAS, the City of Austin’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report says “The deficit in governmental unrestricted net position is largely due to the net pension liability of $2.3 billion and other postemployment benefits (OPEB) liability of $1.9 billion.” WHEREAS, the Legacy Liability of all 3 pensions is expected to increase. The police pension’s increases until 2030, COAERS until 2031, and the firefighter’s until 2032. . WHEREAS, the payments to reduce the Legacity Liability will exceed $190 million in 2028. And those payments will continue until 2051 for the police pension, until 2053 for COAERS, and until 2055 for the firefighters’. WHEREAS, the City of Austin has not formally set aside saved any money to pay for “other …
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Economic Prosperity Commission Recommendation Number: 20251119-010: Pensions and OPEB Benefits WHEREAS, City Council created the Economic Prosperity Commission to advise the council on matters related to job creation and the City of Austin is one of the largest employers in Austin and retirement benefits make up a large percentage of the compensation of City of Austin employees. WHEREAS, City Council created the Economic Prosperity Commission to advise the council on matters related to job creation and the financial health of the City of Austin’s government is a signal used by employers to decide where to create jobs. WHEREAS, the City of Austin’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report says “The deficit in governmental unrestricted net position is largely due to the net pension liability of $2.3 billion and other postemployment benefits (OPEB) liability of $1.9 billion.”. WHEREAS, the Legacy Liability of all 3 pensions is expected to increase. The police pension’s increases until 2030, COAERS until 2031, and the firefighter’s until 2032. WHEREAS, the payments to reduce the Legacity Liability will exceed $190 million in 2028. And those payments will continue until 2051 for the police pension, until 2053 for COAERS, and until 2055 for the firefighters’. WHEREAS, the City of Austin has not saved any money to pay for “other post-employment benefits” (OPEB), such as medical care. WHEREAS, the City of Austin is not legally required to provide OPEB and employees have no guarantee that OPEB will continue. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Economic Prosperity Commission makes the following recommendations: • • The City should establish a defined-contribution plan to pay for OPEB for all employees hired after the plan was created. This is a legal trust where a fixed percentage of wages should be put into the fund to pay for OPEB benefits during each employees’ retirement. The City should continue to explore the cheapest way to provide medical care to existing retirees. This includes studying Chicago’s plan to use the Affordable Care Act, known as ObamaCare, as a way to get medical coverage for retirees. . • • • • The City Budget’s “Taxpayer Impact Statement” page should include the per-ratepayer change in the City’s “total governmental activities net position” for the previous year. The pensions’ rules should be simulated under random expected conditions (for example, shuffled historical data) and varying assumptions. The output of those simulations should include the range of values …
City of Austin | Economic Prosperity Commission Impact Framework and Procedural Guidance January 21st, 2026 City of Austin | Economic Prosperity Commission Impact Framework and Procedural Guidance Executive Summary This document attempts to establish a clear, shared operating framework for the Austin Economic Prosperity Commission to improve consistency, effectiveness, and accountability in its policy work. The document attempts to define how the Commission measures success, how policy ideas should be developed from concept to Council-ready recommendation, and how potential initiatives are evaluated for impact, feasibility, and readiness. By articulating a North Star Metric and a standardized policy development process, the document is intended to support both new and tenured Commissioners in producing high- quality, actionable recommendations that are well-aligned with City priorities and capable of achieving necessary external buy-in. City of Austin | Economic Prosperity Commission Impact Framework and Procedural Guidance January 21st, 2026 Table of Contents I. II. III. IV. V. VI. VII. VIII. Context & Purpose of Document Scope of Recommendations North Star Metric Definition Impact Assessment Framework Phased Policy Development Workflow Policy Recommendation Template Example Policy Recommendation Communications and Representation Guidelines City of Austin | Economic Prosperity Commission Impact Framework and Procedural Guidance January 21st, 2026 I. Context & Purpose of Document Situational Context: The Economic Prosperity Commission has benefited from the addition of new Commissioners that bring fresh perspectives and expertise. However, newer Commissioners have at times expressed difficulty orienting to the Commission’s core goals, the metrics that define Commission success, and the practical mechanics of forming an initial idea into a well-formed, Council-ready policy recommendation. Historically, the Commission has been unclear on how policy potential is assessed, how Commission success is measured, and how both internal and external policy alignment are achieved. Document Purpose: The purpose of this document is to provide a shared operating context for Commissioners. The document attempts to establish a clear North Star Metric for defining Commission output and success, and it lays out a standardized process for policy development, including a structured rubric for assessing the potential impact, feasibility, and readiness of policy initiatives. The intent is to improve clarity, consistency, and effectiveness across Commission work, while supporting Commissioners in their efforts to produce high-quality, actionable recommendations for City Council and adhering to Commission bylaws. City of Austin | Economic Prosperity Commission Impact Framework and Procedural Guidance January 21st, 2026 II. Scope of Recommendations The Economic Prosperity Commission may advance …
