RECOMMENDATION: The Asian American Quality of Life Commission (AAQoL) recommends that City Council members continue to direct the City Manager to cultivate a transparent and coordinated process of hiring executive leadership positions within the City of Austin, including the roles of the City Manager and Directors. DESCRIPTION OF RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL: WHEREAS, the City of Austin is committed to upholding good governance principles, including transparency and public accountability; and WHEREAS, recent instances of five leadership positions, transitioning from interim to permanent without public notification and feedback, based on the City’s organizational chart released in September 2023 and January 2024, have raised concerns about transparency and fairness in the hiring process; and WHEREAS, additional questions remain regarding the efficacy of the grouping of strategic offices such as Equity, Sustainability, Civil Rights, Innovation, Small Minority Business Relations and Resilience, most which operate with interim or acting leadership and three under one acting director; and WHEREAS, the recent spate of new positions and hiring of individuals without consulting City Council or the general public has raised concerns about the lack of transparency and accountability in the hiring of leaders for the City of Austin; and WHEREAS, Interim City Manager Jesús Garza, in a memo dated January 30, 2024, addressed these concerns by acknowledging ongoing communication with Council Members and outlining his plans for key personnel hires within the next 90 days; and WHEREAS, while the City Manager has discretion over hiring and organizational structure, the many appointed and newly created executive leadership positions since late 2022 has caused significant community and negative news concern; and WHEREAS, a transparent and inclusive hiring process fosters public trust, attracts qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds, and ensures a deliberate selection of the best individual for the job; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION: 1. Strongly urges City Council direct the City Manager to properly and meaningfully reinforce the authority of the Strategic Offices of Equity, Sustainability, Civil Rights, Innovation, Small Minority Business Relations and Resilience as equals alongside other City Departments with Director information listed in the City’s organizational chart; 2. Advises the City Council to adopt a policy requiring the City Manager to prioritize public listing and a competitive application process for executive leadership positions, including positions only open to internal hires; 3. Recommends that City Council considers requiring new City Manager leadership provide them with more frequent …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY-OF-LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION (AAQoL) RECOMMENDATION 20240220-007 Transparent Hiring in Executive Leadership Date: February 20, 2024 Subject: Recommendation on Transparent Hiring in Executive Leadership Motioned by: Commissioner Hanna Huang Seconded By: Commissioner Pierre Nguyen ---- RECOMMENDATION: The Asian American Quality of Life Commission (AAQoL) recommends that City Council members continue to direct the City Manager to cultivate a transparent and coordinated process of hiring executive leadership positions within the City of Austin, including the roles of the City Manager and Directors. DESCRIPTION OF RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL: WHEREAS, the City of Austin is committed to upholding good governance principles, including transparency and public accountability; and WHEREAS, recent instances of five leadership positions, transitioning from interim to permanent without public notification and feedback, based on the City’s organizational chart released in September 2023 and January 2024, have raised concerns about transparency and fairness in the hiring process; and WHEREAS, additional questions remain regarding the efficacy of the grouping of strategic offices such as Equity, Sustainability, Civil Rights, Innovation, Small Minority Business Resources and Resilience, most which operate with interim or acting leadership and three under one acting director; and WHEREAS, Interim City Manager Jesús Garza, in a memo dated January 30, 2024, addressed these concerns by acknowledging ongoing communication with Council Members and outlining his plans for key personnel hires within the next 90 days; and WHEREAS, while the City Manager has discretion over hiring and organizational structure, the many appointed and newly created executive leadership positions since late 2022 has caused significant community and negative news concern; and 1 WHEREAS, a transparent and inclusive hiring process fosters public trust, attracts qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds, and ensures a deliberate selection of the best individual for the job; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION: 1. Strongly urges City Council to direct the City Manager to properly and meaningfully reinforce the authority of the Strategic Offices of Equity, Sustainability, Civil Rights, Innovation, Small Minority Business Resources and Resilience as equals alongside other City Departments with Director information listed in the City’s organizational chart; 2. Advises the City Council to adopt a policy requiring the City Manager to prioritize public listing and a competitive application process for executive leadership positions, including positions only open to internal hires; 3. Recommends that City Council considers requiring new City Manager leadership provide them with more frequent or regularly …
88TH STATE LEGISLATURE Intergovernmental Relations Office – Brie L. Franco, Officer WHERE WE STARTED: 2022 PRE-FILED LEGISLATION • Multiple Austin-specific and General City bills were pre-filed in 2022, indicating a tough session ahead for Austin and Cities in general. • Austin Specific • District of Austin – HB 714 by Patterson • DPS Takeover of Austin Police Department – HB 880 by Slawson • Guaranteed Income Preemption – HB 553 by Troxclair • Paid Sick Leave Preemption – SB 130 by Campbell; HB 121 by Vasut • City Specific • Intra-state Commerce Preemption • Municipal Permitting • Community Advocacy (i.e. taxpayer funded lobbying) • By the time the Session began, additional bills concerning significant issues impacting Cities had been filed, such as ETJ regulation, permitting, anddisannexation. 1 88TH REGULAR SESSION STATISTICS • A total 8,153 bills and joint resolutions were filed in the 88th Regular Session, with 1,020 bills and joint resolutions filed on the final day of filing alone. • For context, a total of 7,148 bills and joint resolutions were filed in the 87th Regular Session in 2021. • IGRO tracked 1,678 bills • IGRO identified 81 priority bills that would have had a highly negative impact on City. By the end of the 88th Session, 75 of the priority negative bills failed to pass and 6 finally passed. • Governor Abbott vetoed 76 bills, many of which he said could be taken up again in a special session. No vetoed bills were taken up during the special sessions. 2 88TH SPECIAL SESSIONS: STATISTICS 1st Called Session 2nd Called Session 3rd Called Session • May 29 – June • June 27 – July 27 Filed. 13 Filed • Oct. 9 – Nov. 7 JRs Filed • 66 Bills and JRs • 94 Bills and JRs • 287 Bills and JRs Filed • No bills passed • 3 bills passed • 2 bills passed 4th Called Session* • Nov. 7 – Dec. 5 • 161 Bills and • 2 bills passed * First time a Texas governor has called a fourth special session the same year as the regular session 3 88TH SPECIAL SESSION(S) • The Governor called a total of four Special Sessions on a range of topics, including: • Cutting property-tax rates • Increasing or enhancing the penalties for criminal conduct involving the human smuggling or the operation of a stash house • Border security infrastructure and …
Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan Community Update City of Austin Boards & Commissions Meeting Winter 2024 What is Imagine Austin & why does it matter? • Imagine Austin (IA) is the City’s comprehensive plan, a guide for long-term growth, development, and land use decisions • A comprehensive plan is required by City Charter Article X containing: • Initially adopted in 2012, IA is a 30-year plan, • 231 Actions & 289 Policies • 8 Priority Programs - Overseeing implementation • 1 Growth Concept Map • 1 Community Vision • It seeks to make Austin a city of “Complete Communities”* * Areas that provide amenities, transportation, services, and opportunities that fulfill all residents’ material, social, and economic needs. Imagine Austin Update – Timeline 4 Q 3 2 ‘ 1 Q 4 2 ‘ 2 Q 4 2 ‘ 3 Q 4 2 ‘ 4 Q 4 2 ‘ 1 Q 5 2 ‘ 2 Q 5 2 ‘ 3 Q 5 2 ‘ 4 Q 5 2 ‘ 6 2 ‘ 7 2 ‘ 8 2 ‘ Project Kickstart SEP - MAR Data evaluation; City staff pre-engagement; Framework development; Contracting Engagement JUN - OCT Plan Update Draft Data ongoing; Active dev. with public input Budgeting / IA integration NOV - MAY Ongoing coordination Implementation Priority Program Implementation Enhancements Today Key highlights of IA update pre-planning efforts to date • Refinement of plan update goals & strategies (ongoing) • City collaboration (ongoing) with: • Sustainability & Resilience; and Equity • City Departments • Department Leadership • Priority Programs & Champions • Budget Office • CPIO • Equity-driven Public Participation Planning (draft complete: March/April) Reasons, Goals, Strategies for an update to Imagine Austin: Our Equity Vision The Planning Department acknowledges the history of planning in Austin, and how past planning, including the City’s 1928 Comprehensive Plan and redlining in the 1930s produced continued struggle with displacement and gentrification, and growing disparities across all quality of life outcomes, still felt today. Additionally, the Planning Department acknowledges neighborhood planning, still in place today, covers only a fraction of the city, and even as of 2016 lacked representative decision-making and transparency. Further, those plans were found to be inconsistent with the citywide vision. In sum, some plans in place today have created planning-related outcomes both inconsistent with citywide goals, and planning activities with barriers to representative decision-making. Planning understands this opportunity to learn lessons from the …
SB-17 Impact on UT ADPAC Aneesha Kandikonda(Financial Director) Rachel Joseph (Co-Director of Operations) Agenda 01 ADPAC and the MEC 03 How to help 02 SB-17 04 Discussion What is ADPAC? We are the Asian Desi Pacific-Islander American Collective! We serve as a registered student organization that: - provides community resources, identity-based events, leadership institutes, - - - the tools to fight for Asian American/immigrant rights, - and plans the ONLY graduation event for Asian American students on campus, encompassing over 50,000 students. What was the MEC? The Multicultural Engagement Center, formerly Minority Information Center, has been on campus for 36 years. We are: - a hangout space for all students as often serve as a 'home away from home' for many. - provide multiple computer stations, outlets, watch tv, study desks, spaces to talk/hangout with five full-time dedicated staff! - house five University sponsored student groups: Afrikan American Affairs (AAA), Asian Desi Pacific islander American Collective (ADPAC), Latinx Community Affairs (LCA), Native American and Indigenous Collective (NAIC), Queer Trans Black Indigenous People of Color Alliance (QTBIPOCA) - Mid-1980s - - campus. - Founder: Michael L. Davis university - 2014 History of the MEC and Student Activism at UT Students held sit-ins, protested on the mall and demanded UT Austin to withdraw investment and support for the South African economy. The student-led anti-apartheid struggle spurred increased awareness of racial fissures on - Goal: centralize academic, social and financial support resources available from the - Davis was honored with the Heman Marion Sweatt Student Legacy Award. Davis served as deputy assistant Secretary of Labor during President Obama’s first term and is now a member of the Global Institutional Services management team at T. Rowe Price What is SB-17? Prohibits diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) offices, policies, and programs at state funded universities in Texas Author: Sen. Brendan Creighton Date Effective: January 1st, 2024 Date Passed: June 16th, 2023 The Breakdown Constraints on: Prospective Employment 1. 2. Current Employees 3. University Power → increased political oversight, hold on state funds, state compliance audit(every 4 years) a. anti-DEI ban by Board of Regents b. DEI trainings needed for state law approved by THECB and university counsel 8 exemptions: Course Instruction, Scholarly Research, Student Orgs & Activities, Guest Speakers, Data Collection, Student Retention & Admissions, Grants & Accreditation, Initiatives for Student Achievements or Post-Graduate Outcomes SB-17 and its Consequences Under the exemptions, we should have …
Regular Meeting ZONING & PLATTING COMMISSION Tuesday, February 20, 2024 The Zoning & Platting Commission convened in a meeting on Tuesday, February 20, 2024 @ http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Chair Smith called the Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Betsy Greenberg – Vice-Chair Alejandra Flores - Parliamentarian William D. Floyd Dave Fouts Carrie Thompson - Secretary Hank Smith – Chair Absent Scott Boone Lonny Stern Kendra Garrett 2 Vacancies on the dais. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION The first four (4) speakers signed up prior to the speaker registration deadline 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 minutes from February 6, 2024. Approval of minutes from February 6, 2024 was approved on the consent agenda on the motion by Vice-Chair Greenberg, seconded by Commissioner Flores on a vote of 6-0. Commissioners Boone and Garrett absent. Two vacancies on the dais. PUBLIC HEARINGS 2. Rezoning: Location: Owner/Applicant: Agent: Request: Staff Rec.: Staff: C14-2023-0120 - Chaparral 10% Below; District 2 211 & 203 Chaparral Rd; 7005 & 7007 Circle S. Rd., South Boggy Creek Watershed Rundog Real Estate Group (Mr. Justin Poses) RD Chaparral Subd LLC SF-2 to SF-4A Recommended Cynthia Hadri, 512-974-7620, cynthia.hadri@austintexas.gov Planning Department Motion to grant Applicant’s request for postponement of this item was approved on the consent agenda on the motion by Vice-Chair Greenberg, seconded by Commissioner Flores on a vote of 6-0. Commissioners Boone and Garrett absent. Two vacancies on the dais. 3. Rezoning: Location: Owner/Applicant: Agent: Request: Staff Rec.: Staff: C14-2023-0121 - Bradshaw; District 2 10801 Bradshaw Road, Rinard Creek Watershed DRMTX Investments LLC Keepers Land Planning (Ricca Keepers) I-RR to SF-3 Recommended Cynthia Hadri, 512-974-7620, cynthia.hadri@austintexas.gov Planning Department Public Hearing closed. Motion to grant Staff’s recommendation of SF-3 district zoning for C14-2023-0121 - Bradshaw located at 10801 Bradshaw Road was approved on the consent agenda on the motion by Vice-Chair Greenberg, seconded by Commissioner Flores on a vote of 6-0. Commissioners Boone and Garrett absent. Two vacancies on the dais. 4. Zoning: Location: C14-2023-0100 - Optimist Club Recreation, District 6 13504 ½ Briarwick Drive, 9100 Meadowheath Drive, 13332 Villa Park Drive, 13300-134011 Morris Road, Lake Creek Watershed Optimist Club of Town & Country Round Rock Thrower Design LLC (A. Ron Thrower) I-RR to GR-CO Recommended Sherri Sirwaitis, 512-974-3057, sherri.sirwaitis@austintexas.gov Planning Department Owner/Applicant: Agent: Request: Staff Rec.: Staff: Postponement Request: …
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, February 20, 2024 RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, February 20, 2024 The Resource Management Commission convened in a Regular Called meeting on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at Austin Energy Headquarters 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723. Chair Louis Stone called the Resource Management Commission meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. in Attendance: Commissioner Louis Stone, Chair; Board Members/Commissioners Commissioner Paul Robbins, Vice Chair; Commissioner Trey Farmer; Commissioner GeNell Gary Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Commissioner Melissa Carugati; Commissioner Charlotte Davis; Commissioner Shane Johnson; Commissioner Alison Silverstein PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Resource Management Commission Regular Meeting on November 14, 2023. The motion approving the minutes of the Resource Management Commission meeting of November 14, 2023 was approved on Commissioner Silverstein’s motion, Commissioner Gary’s second on an 8-0 vote with Commissioner Scaffidi absent and two vacancies. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend approving issuance of a capacity-based incentive to KMFA Station, for the installation of solar electric systems on their facilities located at 41 Navasota St, Austin, TX, 78702, in an amount not to exceed $80,676. The motion to approve a recommendation approving the issuance of a capacity-based incentive to KMFA Station, was recommended on Vice Chair Robbins motion, Commissioner Silverstein’s second on a vote 8-0 with Commissioner Scaffidi absent and two vacancies. 3. Recommend approving issuance of a capacity-based incentive to Kensington Apartments, LLC, for the installation of solar electric systems on their facility located at 3300 Manor Rd Austin, TX, 78723, in an amount not to exceed $184,802. RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, February 20, 2024 STAFF BRIEFINGS The motion to approve a recommendation approving the issuance of a capacity- based incentive to Kensington Apartments, LLC, was recommended on Vice Chair Robbins motion, Commissioner Silverstein’s second on a 6-2 vote with Chair Stone and Commissioner Gary voting against, Commissioner Scaffidi absent, and two vacancies. 4. Recommend approving issuance of an incentive to the Texas Solar Energy Society for their Pathways Pilot Program to demonstrate how Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program funding can be applied to solar installations in Austin Energy service territory, in an amount not to exceed $90,000. The motion to approve a recommendation approving the issuance of an incentive to the Texas Solar Energy Society for their Pathways Pilot Program, was recommended on Commissioner Silverstein’s motion, Vice Chair Robbins second on …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY-OF-LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES 02.20.2024 ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY-OF-LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 20th, 2024 The ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY-OF-LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION convened a SPECIAL meeting on TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 20th, 2024, in the Boards and Commissions Room #1101 in City Hall (301 W. 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701). Chair HANNA HUANG called the ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY-OF-LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING to order at 6:11 pm CST. Commissioners in Attendance: Hanna Huang (Chair) Kuo Yang Padmini Jambulapati Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Sarah Chen (Vice-Chair) Seonhye “Sonny” Sin Pierre Nguyen Sabrina Sha Nayer Sikder Mohsin Lari Commissioners Absent: Lily Trieu Anna Lan Satyajeet Dodia Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan Staff in Attendance: Alejandra Mireles – Community Services Program Coordinator, Equity Office Eric Anderson – Program Coordinator, Office of City Clerk CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 1 ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY-OF-LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES 02.20.2024 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. a. Sergio Torres, Food and Resilience Coordinator, Office of Sustainability: follow up from 2021 food plan; start the process of compiling all the content from over the past two years which has included 21 workshops and 2,000 people. The office is creating a draft plan which should be ready for review and feedback from March 18-april 18. Love to hear from the Commission during a presentation or workgroup for feedback to the draft food plan in a future meeting. There will also be an online survey and an online review meeting on April 3 via zoom. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Discussion and possible action to approve the minutes of the COMMISSION’s SPECIAL MEETING on JANUARY 30th, 2024. The JANUARY 30th, 2024, the minutes were approved on COMMISSIONER SARAH CHEN’s motion, COMMISSIONER SONNY SIN’s second on a 9-0 vote. (Absent: Commissioner Lily Trieu, Anna Lan, Satyajeet Dodia, and Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan.) STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Brie Franco, Intergovernmental Affairs Officer, 2023 Legislative Update. COMMISSIONER SARAH CHEN asks what the efforts were to deflect AE bills. Answer, to mitigate taking away from those investors into the AE (the city) to get the return (go back to the budget). COMMISSIONER HANNA HUANG asks between now and the next sessions, what can the Commission do to help the work in the city. Answer, given some of the Commission’s priorities, find …
PUBLIC NOTICE OF A MEETING TAKE NOTICE OF A BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR BOARD MEETING OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN TO BE HELD AT HACA Central Office, 1124 S. Interstate Highway 35 Austin, TX (512.477.4488) Thursday, February 15, 2024 12:00 PM CALL TO ORDER, ROLL CALL CERTIFICATION OF QUORUM Pledge of Allegiance Citywide Advisory Board Update CONSENT AGENDA Public Communication (Note: There will be a three-minute time limitation) Items on the Consent Agenda may be removed at the request of any Commissioner and considered at another appropriate time on this agenda. Placement on the Consent Agenda does not limit the possibility of any presentation, discussion, or action at this meeting. Under no circumstances does the Consent Agenda alter any requirements under Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, Texas Open Meetings Act. 1. Presentation, Discussion, and Possible Action regarding the Approval of the Board Minutes Summary for the Board Meeting held on January 18, 2024 CONSENT ITEMS ACTION ITEMS 2. Presentation, Discussion, and Possible Action regarding Resolution No. 02829: to approve the revised Utility Allowance Schedules for the Housing Choice Voucher Program 3. Presentation, Discussion, and Possible Action on Resolution No. 02830 by the Board of Commissioners of the Housing Authority of the City of Austin (the “Authority”) to take the following actions with regard to the Bridge at Three Hills (the “Development”) in Austin, Texas: (i) acquire the site of the Development; (ii) lease the Development site to the owner of the Development; and (iii) such other actions necessary or convenient to carry out this Resolution. 4. Presentation, Discussion, and Possible Action regarding Resolution No. 02831 Approval of the renewal of the Contract for Employee Dental Insurance with United Healthcare 5. Presentation, Discussion and Possible Action regarding Resolution No: 02832: Approval of renewal of Employee Medical Insurance with United Healthcare 6. Presentation, Discussion, and Possible Action Regarding Resolution No. 02833: Approving the Award of a 5th final Year Renewal Contract For Janitorial and Day Porter Services to M & R Elite Janitorial Solutions, LLC. 7. Presentation, Discussion, and Possible Action regarding Resolution No. 02834: Approval of the Revisions to the Travel Policy of the Housing Authority of the City of Austin EXECUTIVE SESSION The Board may go into Executive Session (close its meeting to the public) Pursuant to: a. 551.071, Texas Gov't Code, consultations with Attorney regarding legal advice, pending or contemplated litigation; or a …
PUBLIC NOTICE OF A MEETING TAKE NOTICE OF A BOARD OF DIRECTORS REGULAR BOARD MEETING OF THE AUSTIN AFFORDABLE HOUSING CORPORATION TO BE HELD AT HACA Central Office, 1124 S. Interstate Highway 35, Austin, TX Austin, TX (512.477.4488) Thursday, February 15, 2024 12:00 PM CALL TO ORDER, ROLL CALL CERTIFICATION OF QUORUM CONSENT AGENDA Public Communication (Note: There will be a three-minute time limitation) Items on the Consent Agenda may be removed at the request of any Commissioner and considered at another appropriate time on this agenda. Placement on the Consent Agenda does not limit the possibility of any presentation, discussion, or action at this meeting. Under no circumstances does the Consent Agenda alter any requirements under Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, Texas Open Meetings Act. CONSENT ITEMS ACTION ITEMS 1. 2. 3. 4. Presentation, Discussion, and Possible Action regarding the Approval of the Board Minutes Summary for the Board Meeting held on December 21, 2023 Presentation, Discussion and Possible Action on Resolution No. 00241 by the Board of Directors of Austin Affordable Housing Corporation (“AAHC”) authorizing AAHC to execute any and all documents, or take any other action, that is necessary or desirable to: (i) facilitate the completion of construction, development and operation of the Bridge at Three Hills (the “Development”), which consists of multifamily housing units and associated amenities in Austin, Texas to be ground-leased from the Housing Authority of the City of Austin; (ii) cause AAHC’s affiliated limited liability company (the “General Partner”) to acquire the general partner interest in the limited partnership that owns the Development (the “Owner”); (iii) cause the Owner to modify its existing construction financing for the Development; and (iv) cause AAHC and/or the Owner to execute any such further documentation as necessary or desirable to allow the consummation of the transactions described herein. Presentation, Discussion and Possible Action on Resolution No. 00242 by the Board of Directors of Austin Affordable Housing Corporation (“AAHC”) authorizing AAHC to execute any and all documents, or take any other action, that is necessary or desirable to participate in (i) the housing tax credit application for Cameron HiLine, (ii) the housing tax credit application for Village at Collinwood, (iii) the housing tax credit application for Heritage Pointe, and (iv) the housing tax credit application for Eagle’s Landing. Presentation, Discussion and Possible Action on Resolution No. 00243 by the Board of Directors of Austin Affordable Housing …
REVISED PUBLIC NOTICE OF A MEETING TAKE NOTICE OF A BOARD OF DIRECTORS REGULAR BOARD MEETING OF THE AUSTIN AFFORDABLE HOUSING CORPORATION TO BE HELD AT HACA Central Office, 1124 S. Interstate Highway 35, Austin, TX Austin, TX (512.477.4488) Thursday, February 15, 2024 12:00 PM CALL TO ORDER, ROLL CALL CERTIFICATION OF QUORUM CONSENT AGENDA Public Communication (Note: There will be a three-minute time limitation) Items on the Consent Agenda may be removed at the request of any Commissioner and considered at another appropriate time on this agenda. Placement on the Consent Agenda does not limit the possibility of any presentation, discussion, or action at this meeting. Under no circumstances does the Consent Agenda alter any requirements under Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, Texas Open Meetings Act. CONSENT ITEMS ACTION ITEMS 1. 2. 3. 4. Presentation, Discussion, and Possible Action regarding the Approval of the Board Minutes Summary for the Board Meeting held on December 15, 2023 Presentation, Discussion and Possible Action on Resolution No. 00241 by the Board of Directors of Austin Affordable Housing Corporation (“AAHC”) authorizing AAHC to execute any and all documents, or take any other action, that is necessary or desirable to: (i) facilitate the completion of construction, development and operation of the Bridge at Three Hills (the “Development”), which consists of multifamily housing units and associated amenities in Austin, Texas to be ground-leased from the Housing Authority of the City of Austin; (ii) cause AAHC’s affiliated limited liability company (the “General Partner”) to acquire the general partner interest in the limited partnership that owns the Development (the “Owner”); (iii) cause the Owner to modify its existing construction financing for the Development; and (iv) cause AAHC and/or the Owner to execute any such further documentation as necessary or desirable to allow the consummation of the transactions described herein. Presentation, Discussion and Possible Action on Resolution No. 00242 by the Board of Directors of Austin Affordable Housing Corporation (“AAHC”) authorizing AAHC to execute any and all documents, or take any other action, that is necessary or desirable to participate in (i) the housing tax credit application for Cameron HiLine, (ii) the housing tax credit application for Village at Collinwood, (iii) the housing tax credit application for Heritage Pointe, and (iv) the housing tax credit application for Eagle’s Landing. Presentation, Discussion and Possible Action on Resolution No. 00243 by the Board of Directors of Austin Affordable …
1. REGULAR MEETING of the TOURISM COMMISSION BOARD February 14, 2024, at 2:30 pm City Hall Chambers Room 1001 301 W. Second St Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Tourism Commission Board 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 Felicia Ojeda, 512.404.4022 or felicia.ojeda@austintexas.gov CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Daniel Ronan, Chair Aileen Bazan Mike Cannatti Stefani Mathis John Riedie Bishop Chappell Ed Bailey, Vice Chair Greg Chanon Rachel Magee Anna Panossian Christian Tschoepe 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 Approve the minutes of the Tourism Commission Board Regular Meeting on January 10, 2024. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. DISCUSSION ITEMS Presentation by Nicole Klepaldo, Interim Executive Director with the Red River Cultural District to present an overview of their organization. Presentation by Natalia Morgan, Donor and Membership Manager for the Lyndon Baines Johnson (LBJ) Foundation to reveal their upcoming music exhibition. Economist Report Presentation by Matt Patton with Angelou Economics regarding the Austin Tourism and Implications for the Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT). DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Approve a recommendation from the Short-Term Rental (STR) Working Group regarding short-term rentals in the city of Austin and how to address challenges to unlicensed STRs in Austin, Texas. Discussion and possible action regarding 2024 Tourism Commission calendar for altering or approving the calendar as is. Discussion and possible action regarding upcoming Agenda topics for the 2024 calendar year for editing or approving of agenda topics. WORKING GROUPS Update from the Short-Term Rental Working Group. Update from the Parks and Environment Working Group. call 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 …
OUR MISSION The Red River Cultural District is a creative community providing authentic Austin experiences through diverse local music, art and food for every fan and guest. In an ever-changing ATX, our nonprofit seeks to preserve and grow Red River's creative, business, and music scene. As a community rooted in artists, musicians, performers, music venues, cultural institutions and small businesses, the District embodies the soul and heart of Austin. WHO is the RED RIVER Cultural District The District is managed by the Red River Merchant’s Association, a coalition of 50+ businesses including live music venues, food, hospitality, entertainment businesses and also the Austin Symphony Orchestra, First Baptist Church, German-Texan Heritage Society and Waterloo Greenway. The District was designated a State Cultural District in 2020 by the Texas Commision on the Arts and a local Cultural District by the City of Austin in 2013. RED RIVER Cultural District IMPACT • Conserve Austin's only walkable live music hub of over dozen independent music venues • Support thousands of local musicians and performers annually through direct financial support • Foster 1000+ music and service industry jobs in the district • Backbone to major tourism and economic generators including SXSW, ACL, Levitation, Oblivion Access, GTHS Oktoberfest and more RED RIVER Cultural District IMPACT • Local, State, and Federal Policy advocacy for live music ecosystem and small and local business assistance • Creative economy hub including opportunities for photographers, video production, designers, fashion, artists, and more • Destination for local and Texas music heritage • Industry Development Incubator RED RIVER Cultural District IMPACT • $200K in direct pandemic relief to music and service industry to 3,000 individuals served • Curb appeal, district identify and safety enhancements $1.5M+ improvements • Local, State, Federal Policy and Program Advocacy and Education FREE Signature Music Festivals Our premier all-ages district-wide festivals Free Week and Hot Summer Nights fuel community growth in the traditionally dog-days of summer and dead of winter. • Support with direct payment 300+ musicians, artists, and performers per festival over 3 days • Average 15,000+ attendees of locals and visitors • Leverage industry support and causes through partnerships • Average 15-25% first time performers during either fest Hot Summer Nights 2023 Highlights 30+ Million media impressions in July alone including the front page of the Austin Chronicle Total Participating Venues: 14 total (largest participation yet) Total Music Acts: 130 Our largest Hot Summer Nights Estimated total …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Austin Tourism Commission Recommendation Number: 20240214-005: The STR Working group outlines a multi-pronged approach to address the challenges posed by unlicensed short-term rentals (STRs) in Austin, Texas. The goal is to foster a responsible and sustainable STR ecosystem that benefits both the tourism industry and residents. WHEREAS, STRs operate in Austin, leading to lost revenue from hotel occupancy taxes, permit fees, and indirect costs such as increased enforcement and strain on City infrastructure; WHEREAS, Unreliable data hinders accurate estimates of lost tax revenue and poses risks related to inaccurate property information, host background checks, and health hazards; and WHEREAS, Legal limitations, such as the Zaatari vs. City of Austin case, restrict the City's ability to directly eliminate Type 2 STR licenses. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Austin Tourism Commission recommends the City Council: • Require more information from applicants for STR licenses and maintain a database; Focus on underreported Hotel Occupancy Taxes (HOT) which leads to a loss in revenue. While the revenue generated from permit fees may seem insignificant compared to HOT revenue, permit fees are crucial in driving license adoption. This, in turn, helps drive compliance for licenses and maximizes HOT revenue, leading to a more efficient and effective system; • Enhance transparency and streamline licensing by simplifying the application process, implementing online systems, and addressing open citations by implementing an efficient tax and permit fee system; Prioritize safety and community well-being by upholding safety regulations through proactive inspections, addressing noise complaints, and promoting responsible guest behavior; Foster collaborative partnerships by building strategic partnerships with platforms, neighborhood associations, and the Austin Police Department; • • • 1 DRAFT • Rectify open citations held by non-compliant hosts and ensure accurate property listings via an accountable process to notify short-term rental platforms to remove hosts as appropriate. Once the necessary validations are completed, the property listings may be reposted; • Implement platform fees and hold platforms accountable for aiding non-compliance; • Explore innovative funding models for cultural & arts preservation and offering discounts and incentives for compliant and sustainable STRs; • Create performance benchmarks and an honorary "Best Practices" badge for STRs that consistently meet performance benchmarks; and • Continuously assess and adapt to changes in the Austin STR ecosystem by maintaining open communication channels, leveraging data-driven insights, and embracing consistent program review and adaptation. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: (Unanimous on a …
WORKING DOCUMENT: Tourism Commission Road Map March 2024 – December 2024 Agenda Topics, Potential Speakers & Community Presenters Note: All meetings take place on Wednesdays from 2:30pm-4:30pm in City Council Chambers. 1. March 13, 2024 – The Tourism Outlook: From Green Space to Outer Space • Potential Speakers: Visit Austin Update • Potential Community Presenters: Austin Park Foundation & Chair of Astronomy Department at the University of Texas Austin 2. 3. 4. April 10, 2024 – A Good Time: Food & Beverage • Potential Speakers: Restaurant Associations, Food Journalists • Potential Community Presenters: Independent Restaurants May 8, 2024 – National Tourism Week: Music Makers & Marketers • Potential Speakers: Music Venues • Potential Community Presenters: Event Promoters June 12, 2024 – Cultural Hubs: Museums & Cultural Sites • Potential Speakers: Texas Association of Museums & the Texas Historical Commission • Potential Community Presenters: Museums & Independent Cultural Sites 5. July 10, 2024 – Coming Together: Conventions & Special Events • Potential Speakers: Convention Organizers & the City of Austin Convention Center Department • Potential Community Presenters: Local Event Companies 6. 7. August 14, 2024 – Proposed: No Meeting September 11, 2024 – Funding Austin Tourism: City HOT Tax • Potential Speakers: City of Austin Chief Financial Officer & Economic Development Department • Potential Community Presenters: Doherty Arts Center 8. October 9, 2024 – Across the Town: From Districts to Downtown • Potential Speakers: City of Austin Economist, Downtown Austin Alliance & • Potential Community Presenters: Palm District Cultural Organizations & Preservation Austin Local Tour Guides 9. November 13, 2024 – Open Topic • Potential Speakers: • Potential Community Presenters: December 11, 2024 – Proposed: No Meeting 10. DRAFT
REGULAR MEETING OF THE COMMISSION ON AGING FEBRUARY 14TH, 2024 AT NOON CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 301 W 2ND ST AUSTIN, TEXAS, 78701 Some members of the BOARD/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 Halana Kaleel, 512‐972‐5019, Halana.Kaleel@austintexas.gov. CURRENT MEMBERS: Richard Bondi, Chair Gretchen Flatau, Vice‐Chair Austin Adams Jacqueline Angel Patricia Bordie Gloria Lugo Preston Tyree Henry Van de Putte Vacancy since January 2024‐District 1 Vacancy since May 2023‐District 6 Emily De Maria Nicola Teresa Ferguson Mariana Gonzalez Martin Kareithi Fred Lugo AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the January 10th, 2023 Regular Commission on Aging Meeting. STAFF BRIEFINGS/ANNOUNCEMENTS 2. Staff briefing regarding Age‐Friendly Austin Update, Halana Kaleel, Public Health Community Engagement Specialist, Austin Public Health. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. FY 24‐29 Consolidated Plan Community Needs Assessment Presentation & Discussion (Housing Department: Chris Duran, Senior Research Analyst; Julie Smith, Community Engagement Specialist; Jamey May, Housing & Community Development Officer; Austin 4. 5. 6. 7. 9. 10. Public Health: Helen Howell, Austin Public Health Social Services Funding Specialist Senior) Update and discussion on the Age Friendly Community Engagement Survey Distribution and Results (Staff Liaison Halana Kaleel). Discussion on FY25 Commission on Aging Process and Planning for Budget Recommendations (Chair Bondi). Discussion on updating the goals, strategies, and metrics of the Age Friendly Austin Action Plan (Chair Bondi and Staff Liaison Halana Kaleel). Discussion and update on planning for Older Americans Month 2024 (Chair Bondi). DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 8. Presentation from April Geruso, City of Austin Planning Department, about updating the 2012 Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan, and possible action to appoint a representative to support the development and implementation of the Imagine Austin Comprehensive Engagement Process. Discussion and possible action on pursuing designation as a Dementia‐Friendly City (Chair Bondi). Discussion and possible action on the annual Commission on Aging Community Service Awards (Chair Bondi). 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 …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE HIV PLANNING COUNCIL FINANCE/ALLOCATIONS AND STRATEGIC PLANNING/NEEDS ASSESSMENT COMMITTEE WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2024, 1:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE, RM. 1203 AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the HIV PLANNING COUNCIL may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: Click here to join the meeting 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 the Office of Support, (512)-972-5841, HIVPlanningCouncil@austintexas.gov CURRENT HIV PLANNING COUNCIL FINANCE/ALLOCATIONS AND STRATEGIC PLANNING/NEEDS ASSESSMENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Ashley Garling, Committee Chair Kelle’ Martin Kristina McRae-Thompson Gin Pham AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up no later than noon on 2/13/2024 will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. September 20, 2023 CONFLICT OF INTEREST DECLARATIONS 2. Members will declare conflict of interest with relevant agenda items, service categories, and/or service standards STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Introductions/Announcements 4. Office of Support staff report 5. Administrative Agent report DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 10. Workplan Calendar review ADJOURNMENT Indicative of action items 6. Discussion and approval of recommended reallocations 7. Discussion and approval of FY24 Planning Council Budget and Stigma Index Proposal 8. Discussion and approval of National Week of Prayer Event Budget 9. Discussion and approval of topic for Needs Assessment Year 2 Literature Review The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. TTY users’ route through Relay Texas at 711. For More Information on the HIV Planning Council, please contact Nathalia Delgadillo at (512) 972-5841.
