HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Regular Meeting Monday, March 25, 2024 6:00 p.m. – Adjournment Austin City Hall, Board & Commission Room, 1101 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 AGENDA Some members of the Human Rights Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may speak up to three minutes on an item only once either in-person or remotely. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register, call or email the board liaison at 512-974-3253 or Damian.Pantoja@austintexas.gov CURRENT COMMISSION MEMBERS: Kolby Duhon, Vice Chair (He/They)\ Alicia Weigel (She/They) Gabriella Zeidan Michael Stevenson Muneeb ‘Meebs’ Aslam (He/Him) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES Morgan Davis (He/Him) Mariana Krueger (She/Her) Jeffrey Clemmons Srini Raghavan 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission meeting on February 26, 2024. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Select an alternative Human Rights Commission member to represent the Commission to support the development and implementation of the Imagine Austin comprehensive engagement process. 3. Approve a recommendation for Promoting a Culture of Care thought Implementation of Harm Reduction Strategies in our Communities. 4. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Increased Emergency 5. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Funding of Emergency 6. Approve a recommendation for addressing the ban on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Housing Assistance. Housing Assistance. initiatives. 7. Approve a recommendation for addressing the difficulties confronted by immigrants and refugees through immigrant supportive policies. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please email Damian Pantoja at damian.pantoja@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711.
REGULAR MEETING of the DESIGN COMMISSION MONDAY, MARCH 25, 2024, 6:00 PM PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1401 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Design Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Nicole Corona, at 512-974-3146 or nicole.corona@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Jon Salinas, Chair Josue Meiners, Vice Chair David Carroll Nkiru Gelles Kevin Howard Conners Ladner AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Chi Lee Ben Luckens Marissa McKinney Brita Wallace Brendan Wittstruck The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting February 26, 2024. 1. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. 3. Discussion and action on the engagement plan for the update to the Urban Design Guidelines. Presented by Sophia Benner, Planning Department. Conduct a nomination for the representative for the Downtown Commission. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 4. 5. 6. 7. Update from the Urban Design Guidelines Working Group regarding the meeting on March 1, 2024. Update from representative of the Downtown Commission regarding the meeting on March 20, 2024. Update from representative of the Joint Sustainability Committee regarding the meeting on February 28, 2024. Update from representative of the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board regarding the meeting on March 18, 2024. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Note: City Code requires two board members sponsor an item to be included on an agenda. This section of the agenda provides members an opportunity to request items for future agendas. Staff should assume that if there is no objection from other members expressed at the meeting, the members’ silence indicates approval for staff to include on the next agenda. 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 …
Urban Design Guidelines Update - Engagement Plan 3 Groups of Stakeholders 3 Phases of Engagement Austin Foundation for Architecture AIA Austin (American Institute of Architects) Phase 1: Preparation Austin Center of Architecture APA Central Texas (American Planning Association) ULI (Urban Land Institute) Downtown Commission UTSOA professors ASLA (American Institute of Landscape Architects) EDD Cultural Arts Division and Music & Entertainment staff Phase 1 of engagement was led by commissioners through the creation of working groups, engagement with stakeholders in the Design Focus and Interest Group categories, engagement with ambassadors, and the onset of editing the guidelines. May 2021 - September 2022 Phase 2: Creation Phase 2 of engagement includes work led by commissioners, work led by staff, and more collaborative work. 1. A new working group was formed to shepherd the creation of the draft UDG. 2. Commissioners will provide the narrative, finalize the guidelines, test the guidelines & finalize the draft UDG document. 3. Staff will lead engagement with the Technical Focus stakeholders. Staff will lead the creation of the document design. 4. After the Technical stakeholders weigh in, commissioners will finalize the draft UDG. 5. When the final draft is ready, commissioners will create a recorded presentation to post on SpeakUp alongside the draft UDG for public comment. 6. Staff will assist by uploading documents to SpeakUp and managing the web page. 7. Commissioners will reach out to stakeholders in the Design and Interest groups to invite their feedback. 8. Commissioners will incorporate their feedback into the UDG document. Phase 3 of engagement includes: 1. Staff will lead the finalization of the UDG graphic design 2. Staff and Commissioners will collaborate on the finalization of the UDG document. 3. Commissioners will lead presentations to Downtown Commission, Planning Commission, and City Council. 4. Staff and Commissioners will collaborate on incorporating any feedback from Boards, Commissions & Council presentations into the UDG. 5. Upon City Council's adoption of a new UDG, staff will update the SpeakUp page and the Design Commission page with the new document. September 2022 - September 2024 September 2024 - February 2025 Downtown Austin Neighborhood Alliance (DANA) Phase 3: Finalization s u c o F n g i s e D s l a n o i s s e f o r p , s r e n n a l p n a b r u , s t c e t i h …
URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES UPDATE Adopted Priorities Climate & Environment – Strategy upholds the fundamental human right to clean, healthy and adequate air, water, land, food, education, transportation, safety, and housing by minimizes the harmful effects of construction projects on human health and the environment. Mobility & Connectivity- Strategy includes planning for density, reducing dependence on single occupant vehicles, increased multimodal transportation options, sidewalk and street connectivity, and uderutilized rights- of-way. Equity & Affordability - Strategy lowers and stabilizes costs related to basic living needs (housing, food, utilities, healthcare, transportation, etc.) for low-income communities, and communities of color, as well as eliminate disparities that can be predicted by race. Cultural Preservation - Strategy deliberately and respectfully honors cultural relevance and history to maintain cultural heritage from the past and present for the benefit of all generations. Project Types - Strategy includes design & planning for different project uses, sizes, and locations. Design Excellence - Strategy that upholds design standards that include: functionality, durability, beautiful design, creativity, contextual response, sustainability, good business, and legacy. Adaptability & Resilience - Strategy enhances the ability of a building to both prevent damage and to recover from damage as well as the ability to accommodate substantial change over the lifetime of the building. Adopted Plans & Policies- Strategy ensures design & planning efforts will be in alignment with adopted city policies and plans. Advisory Groups BUILDINGS (Includes all occupiable structures, both public & private) • Climate & Environment • Mobility & Connectivity • Equity & Affordability • Preserve Vibrant Culture of Austin • Various Project Types • City Adopted Plans • Design Excellence • Adaptability & Resilience OPEN SPACES (Includes public gathering spaces, like Plazas, Open Spaces, Parks, & Trails) • Climate & Environment • Mobility & Connectivity • Equity & Affordability • Preserve Vibrant Austin Culture • Various Project Types • City Adopted Plans • Design Excellence • Adaptability & Resilience STREETSCAPE (Elements placed in the streetscape, like Furniture, Trees, Art, Lighting, Signage, Barriers, Fencing, etc.) • Climate & Environment • Mobility & Connectivity • Equity & Affordability • Preserve Vibrant Austin Culture • Various Project Types • City Adopted Plans • Design Excellence • Adaptability & Resilience URBAN FABRIC (Components that connect with existing development to reinforce the surrounding urban fabric) • Climate & Environment • Mobility & Connectivity • Equity & Affordability • Preserve Vibrant Austin Culture • Various Project Types • City …
1. 2. DESIGN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2024 The Design Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, February 26, 2024, at the Permitting and Development Center located at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Salinas called the Design Commission Meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Jon Salinas, Chair David Carroll Nkiru Gelles Kevin Howard Ben Luckens Marissa McKinney Brita Wallace Brendan Wittstruck Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Josue Meiners, Vice Chair Conners Ladner PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on December 11, 2023. The minutes from the meeting of 12/11/2023 were approved on Commissioner McKinney’s motion, Commissioner Wittstruck’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Lee was absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing regarding the Equity-Based Preservation Plan. Presented by Cara Bertron, Planning Department. The presentation was made by Cara Bertron, Planning Department. 1 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Discussion and possible action to consider a recommendation to support the Green Streets Initiative. Presented by Jana McCann, McCann Adams Studio. Sponsors: Chair Salinas, Commissioner Wittstruck The motion to recommend the Green Streets Initiative (Green Infrastructure Resolution) to City Council was approved on Commissioner Lucken’s motion, Commissioner Wittstruck’s second on a 9-0-1 vote. Commissioner Howard recused himself from this item due to a conflict of interest and left the dais. Commissioner Lee was absent. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES Update from the Urban Design Guidelines Working Group regarding updates to the guidelines. Update was given by Commissioner Carroll. Update from representative of the Downtown Commission regarding last meeting. Update was given by Commissioner McKinney. Update from representative of the Joint Sustainability Committee regarding last meeting. Update was given by Chair Salinas. Update from representative of the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board regarding last meeting. Update was given by Commissioner Ladner. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion of the Urban Design Guidelines related to the review of Downtown Density Bonus Projects. Presented by Sophia Benner, Planning Department. The presentation was made by Sophia Benner, Planning Department. Chair Salinas adjourned the meeting at 7:43 p.m. without objection. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 2
REGULAR MEETING OF THE HIV PLANNING COUNCIL BUSINESS COMMITTEE MEETING MONDAY, MARCH 25, 2024, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, RM. 1203 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the HIV PLANNING COUNCIL may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: 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 MEMBERS: Kelle’ Martin, Chair Zachery Garay Ashley Garling AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Rocky Lane, Non-Voting Gin Pham Kristina McRae-Thompson The first 10 speakers signed up no later than noon on 3/24/2024 will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. February 26, 2024 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 6. Part B Report DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Discussion and approval of recommendation for Stigma Index Proposal 8. Discussion and review of Reallocation and Conflict of Interest Policies 9. Open nominations for Vice-Chair and Secretary COMMITTEE UPDATES 10. Governance/Membership and Care Strategies 11. Finance/Allocations and Strategic Planning/Needs Assessment 12. Review of workplan calendar and social calendar FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT Indicative of action items The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. TTY users’ route through Relay Texas at 711. For More Information on the HIV Planning Council, please contact Nathalia Delgadillo at (512) 972-5841.
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: 20240325-04: Budget Proposal for Increased Emergency Housing Assistance WHEREAS, the City of Austin is facing a housing affordability crisis as data reports show that the overall median rent is now $2,100, with the median rent for a one bedroom at $1,443. WHEREAS, per the Eviction Lab at Princeton University, eviction filings in Austin have soared to over 50% higher than the pre-pandemic average rate, with communities of color drastically more at risk of eviction in a state with some of the country’s weakest protections for renters. WHEREAS, a record 2.1 million renters, more than half of the state’s renter households, are “cost burdened,” meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on rent and utilities per a recent Harvard University study. WHEREAS, the State of Texas shuttered it’s statewide rent relief program last summer leaving it up to municipalities to act on the growing rental crisis. Austin has stepped up to the plate, most recently in December with an $8 million rental assistance and eviction support through the City of Austin Housing Department’s “I Belong in Austin” program. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Human Rights Commission encourages the Austin City Council to allocate at least another $8 million dollars in rent relief funds and explore all available means in order to create short, medium, and long term solutions for individuals at risk of eviction in Austin. Date of Approval: Record of the vote: Attest:
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, FEB 26, 2024 HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Regular Meeting MINUTES Monday, February 26, 2024 The Human Rights Commission convened in a REGULAR meeting on Monday, February 26, 2024, at Austin City Hall, Board & Commission Room, 1101, 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Vice Chair Duhon called the BOARD NAME Meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. Board Members/Commissioner in Attendance: Vice Chair K. Duhon, J. Clemmons, M. Davis, S. Raghavan (6:09 PM), G. Zeidan, Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: M. Aslam, M. Krueger PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission meeting on January 22, 2024 The Minutes from the meeting of January 22, 2024 were approved on M. Davis motion; M. Krueger seconded the motion; motion passed 6 – 0; Raghavan off the dais; A. Weigel, L. Garcia, and M. Steveson were absent 2. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission special meeting on Dec 11, 2022 The Minutes from the meeting of December 11, 2022 were approved on M. Davis motion; M. Krueger seconded the motion; motion passed 6 – 0; Raghavan off the dais; A. Weigel, L. Garcia, and M. Steveson were absent STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Staff briefing regarding updating the 2012 Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan. Presented by April Geruso, Planning Department. The presentation was made by April Geruso with the Planning Department. 1 HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES DISCUSSION ITEMS MONDAY, FEB 26, 2024 4. Discussion of a new May 2024 Commission meeting date 5. Presentation by The American Gateway about the services they provide that improve the quality of life for the immigrant community in Austin. 6. Presentation by Commissioner Davis about ATX Kind DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair for a term ending in April 2024. The motion to approve K. Duhon to be the Chair was approved on M. Davis motion and G. Zeidan seconded the motion; motion passed 7 – 0; A. Weigel, L. Garcia, and M. Steveson were absent. The motion to approve G. Zeidan for Vice Chair was approved on M. Krueger motion and M. Aslam seconded the motion; motion passed 7 – 0; A. Weigel, L. Garcia, and M. Steveson were absent. 8. Approve a recommendation for Addressing the Youth Mental Health Crisis through Enhanced Budgetary Allocations and Support for Local Nonprofits and Community-Based Organizations The …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: 20240325-03: Promoting a Culture of Care Through the Implantation of Harm Reduction Strategies in our Communities. Whereas, the War on Drugs describes the continued prohibition on and criminalization of a broad set of substances under the Controlled Substances Act; and, Whereas, harm reduction, in the context of substance use, is a community-oriented public health and safety approach aimed at reducing the negative consequences associated with the use of substances; and, Whereas, harm reduction is one of the four core strategies being implemented by the Department of Health and Human Services to address the ongoing Opioid Crisis; and, Whereas, in 2022 the CDC counts 51,435 total overdose deaths, among which 64.3% could have been prevented by intervention, including over 120 overdoses in Austin for the same year; and, Whereas, in 2022, Travis County ranked 27th among Texas counties with the highest number of unintentional overdose deaths, representing a 23% increase from two years prior, per CDC data; and, Whereas, the City of Austin was also the recipient of $1.53m from the State's disbursement of Opioid Settlement Funding, the express purpose for which is to address opioid related harms in the communities; and, Whereas, the current substance use crisis is inflamed by state laws encouraging abstinence and criminalization-especially regarding the possession of drug paraphernalia including sterile injection materials, testing supplies, and supervised use-have made it more difficult for individuals, organizations, and municipalities to seek and render life-saving aid; and, Whereas, in the midst of a statewide healthcare crisis under which over 4 million people, per the Texas Medical Association, lack healthcare, including up to 20% of Austin's own citizens under 65; and, Whereas, stagnant or negative statewide healthcare funding, including for labor and infrastructure, has exacerbated existing gaps in coverage and made it more difficult for individuals to seek care in a timely manner; and, Whereas, the costs and stigma associated with substance use create a barrier to outreach and access for those who need it most; and Whereas, the City of Austin's mission involves "partner[ing] with one another and with our community to provide the best service possible" and "actively seek[ing] out good ideas that have a lasting, positive impact on our work, our community and our environment,"; and, Whereas, discrimination based on substance use is in conflict with this Commission's responsibility to further human rights in the City of Austin, and therefore poses …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number 20240325-07: Addressing the difficulties confronted by immigrants and refugees through immigrant supportive policies. WHEREAS, the United States is in critical need of comprehensive immigration reform that reflects the values of fairness, compassion, and respect for due process. The current immigration system is outdated, overly complex, and lacks sufficient pathways for legal immigration, leading to widespread inefficiencies and injustices in the treatment of immigrants and refugees seeking to contribute to American society. WHEREAS, the robustness of the U.S. economy relies on the contributions of immigrant workers who fill vital roles in industries such as agriculture, hospitality, healthcare, and technology. Immigrants not only fill essential jobs that many American citizens are unwilling to undertake but also stimulate economic growth by establishing businesses, purchasing goods and services, and paying taxes, thereby enriching local communities and bolstering the national economy. WHEREAS, recent years have witnessed a concerning rise in anti-immigrant sentiment, perpetuated by populist politicians who scapegoat immigrants for societal challenges and economic insecurities. In regions like Texas, which is home to a significant immigrant population, such divisive rhetoric has exacerbated tensions and fostered a climate of fear and hostility towards immigrant communities, undermining social cohesion and collective well-being. WHEREAS, a substantial number of immigrants seeking refuge in the United States are asylum seekers fleeing dire circumstances in their home countries, including poverty, violence, political persecution, and environmental disasters. These individuals and families embark on perilous journeys in search of safety and opportunity, often facing additional hardships and trauma along the way. WHEREAS, the city of Austin prides itself on its values of freedom, compassion, and inclusivity, recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of all individuals regardless of their immigration status. In the absence of meaningful immigration reforms and permanent protections for immigrant families at the federal level, community organizations play a vital role in providing essential services and support to immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers, ensuring their basic needs are met and their rights upheld. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Austin City Council, in partnership with the Human Rights Commission, is called on to reaffirm its commitment to supporting immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers in the local community by implementing the following measures: • Enhanced Budgetary Allocations: The Austin City Council is called on to pledge to allocate additional resources in the city budget to fund programs, initiatives, and services specifically tailored to meet …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number 20240325-06: Addressing the Ban on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives. WHEREAS, Texas state law SB17, which took effect on January 1st, 2024, has ignited a contentious debate surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at public institutions of higher education. The legislation, while seemingly aimed at promoting equal treatment and opportunity, has sparked concerns among stakeholders about its potential to stifle efforts to address systemic inequities and promote diversity on college campuses. Critics argue that the law's broad language and prohibitions on certain forms of outreach and support for underrepresented groups could have unintended consequences, including the erosion of longstanding diversity initiatives and the exacerbation of disparities in educational outcomes. Moreover, the implementation of SB17 has raised questions about the role of universities in advancing social justice and equity, as well as the appropriate balance between state regulation and institutional autonomy in matters of diversity and inclusion. WHEREAS, the ramifications of SB17 extend beyond the realm of policy and regulation, permeating the very fabric of academic life and community engagement. In the wake of the law's enactment, public higher education institutions in Texas have grappled with a climate of uncertainty and apprehension, as administrators, faculty, and students navigate the complexities of compliance while striving to uphold principles of fairness, inclusivity, and respect for diversity. The chilling effect of SB17 has been palpable, with reports of self-censorship and reluctance to engage in discussions about race, gender, and other identity-related issues out of fear of reprisal or legal sanction. Such dynamics have profound implications for the educational experience and intellectual vitality of college campuses, where open dialogue and robust exchange of ideas are foundational to the pursuit of knowledge and understanding. WHEREAS, the implementation of SB17 has cast a shadow of doubt over the future of diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts at the University of Texas at Austin and Austin Community College, a venerable institution with a rich tradition of academic excellence and cultural diversity. As the flagship university of the state's public higher education system, UT Austin plays a pivotal role in shaping the intellectual landscape of Texas and beyond, serving as a beacon of innovation, scholarship, and social progress. However, the constraints imposed by SB17 threaten to undermine the university's commitment to diversity and inclusion, jeopardizing its ability to attract and retain a diverse student body, faculty, and staff. Moreover, the chilling effect of …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number 20240325-05: Funding for Emergency Housing Assistance WHEREAS, Austin continues to face a housing affordability crises particularly impacting renters that have seen multiple years of rental increases, and WHEREAS, the LGBTQ Quality of Life Study noted that the increase cost of rental housing was the highest-ranked domain of priority for participants in the town hall meetings, and WHEREAS, in the referenced Study, 10% of respondents indicated they had been homeless in the last 5 years, 65% of respondents spent 30% or more of their income on housing while 9% spent more than half of their income, and WHEREAS, the City of Austin provided funding for a program entitled "I Belong in Austin" to provide emergency assistance for renters in danger of losing their housing including short-term rental assistance as well as moving and storage expenses to lessen the impact of forced relocation, and WHEREAS, "I Belong in Austin" had over 800 people on the waiting list when the program began this year and that waiting list quickly grew to 4,000 before being capped at that number indicating the continuing need for this assistance, NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Human Rights Commission supports the LGBTQ Quality of Life Commission recommendation that the Austin City Council approve continued funding in the next fiscal year based on an evaluation of the program's effectiveness in preventing homelessness for diverse clients in order to mitigate the affordability crisis and accomplish strategic goals related to housing stabilization, economic opportunity and affordability. Date of Approval: _ Record of the vote: Attest:
AUSTIN TRANSITIONAL GRANT AREA (TGA) HIV PLANNING COUNCIL REALLOCATIONS POLICY Adopted August 24, 2020 Reallocation Policy Overview Making decisions on what service categories are to be funded by Part A/MAI funds is a core responsibility of the HIV Planning Council during its annual Priority Setting & Resource Allocation (PSRA) process. This process is completed in advance of the submission of the annual grant application, eight to nine months before a Notice of Award (NoA) is issued by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). When the actual NoA is received by the Grantee, the Administrative Agent allocates funds in proportion to the Service Category Allocation Plan approved by the Planning Council. (In other words, if 8.2% of the Part A direct services funding request was allocated to mental health services, 8.2% of actual awarded Part A direct services funds are allocated to Mental Health Services.) Reallocation recommendations do not affect or preempt the PSRA process; reallocation only occurs after a grant award, based on the results of the PSRA process has been made and the grant period has started. It is imperative that as much as possible of the Part A/MAI grant award be spent during the grant year. This has the dual effect of providing as many services as possible during the grant year as well as reducing the possibility that unspent funding will create a mistaken impression that the full amount of the grant award is not needed by the TGA. Reallocation is defined as an adjustment of the Planning Council’s current Service Category Allocation Plan. Ongoing evaluation of subrecipient performance and other factors determine areas in which expenditures and/or service utilization is likely to exceed or fall below awards and service goals, as well as identified areas of unmet need not known or realized at the time the current Service Category Allocation Plan was adopted. The City of Austin’s contracting process is long and complex, which makes timely shifts in funding between service categories and/or subrecipient contracts challenging. The purpose of this policy is to define the Planning Council’s reallocations process and, when necessary and possible, reduce the amount of time between a conclusion by the Administrative Agent that a funding reallocation recommendation is advisable/necessary and the redeployment of funds to service categories and subrecipient contracts in which the funding can be spent within the grant year. By adopting this Reallocations Policy, the Planning Council specifies procedures …
Policy and Procedure 6.0 Conflict of Interest Policy and Procedures Purpose: Policy: To elaborate further upon the Conflict of Interest guidelines established within the HIV Planning Council’s (Planning Council) Bylaws and set forth these policies and procedures listed below. To minimize and manage conflict of interests relating to activities of the Planning Council. A conflict of interest may arise in various aspects throughout the Planning Council’s duties and responsibilities; therefore, these steps may be applied to various scenarios. It is the policy of the HIV Planning Council Support Staff to maintain and secure all records relating to all Planning Council business on file in the PC office, including buty not limited to, conflict of interest statements. Conflict of Interest Defined Per the Planning Council’s Bylaws, a conflict of interest shall be defined as it is within the Ryan White Part A Primer which includes an actual or perceived conflict of interest. Affiliated Planning Council Members Members who meet this definition as defined by the Planning Council’s Bylaws and Ryan White Part A Primer, shall have their “Conflicted” membership status indicated on their name placards which are to be prominently displayed at each Planning Council meeting in which the member is in attendance. Also referred to as “unaligned” or “conflicted” in reference to their affiliation with sub recipients of the Ryan White Part A grant funds. The Planning Council will bear in mind that a Conflicted Planning Council membership designation does not limit those within this designation to be the only ones who may have a conflict of interest. Committee Meetings, Discussions, and Voting All Planning Council members shall dissociate from actual or perceived special interests during Planning Council meetings and when conducting business related to the Planning Council. Each member shall only act within the best interest of people living with or affected by HIV/AIDS within the Austin TGA in totality. Prior to each Planning Council meeting, each member shall indicate whether they have a conflict of interest with an agenda item (specifying the agenda item number) on the meeting “Sign in sheet”. The Chair or presiding member of each Planning Council meeting shall verbally declare which members indicated a conflict of interest and to which agenda item during the meeting (Declarations of Conflict of Interest shall be a designated Agenda Item). The Secretary or Office of Support Staff shall maintain a record …
Austin Transitional Grant Area (TGA) Administrative Agent (AA) Report to HIV Planning Council March 2024 1. 2. PART A & MAI GRANTS ADMINISTRATION/MANAGEMENT UPDATE We have hired a Funding Specialist for RW Part A and for EHE. We anticipate these two new employees will start employment with APH on 4/8/24. Tameka Houston was hired to be the Funding Specialist for HOPWA. She began work with our unit on 3/11/24. Once the 2 new employees begin, we will be fully staffed. One agency that received carryover funds did not get their amended grant agreement signed by the end of the grant year, due to an oversight by the agency. Approximately $380k of funds carried over from FFY22 went unspent and are lost to our community. The oversight was examined with the agency and adequate measures were put into place to ensure this doesn’t happen again. OTHER HIV RESOURCES ADMINISTRATION GRANT UPDATES 1. HOPWA: 2 contracts executed, 2 routing for signatures 2. Part C: FFY24 1 contract executed, 2 under negotiation 3. EHE PS20: Both contracts are executed and will be receiving a 2-month extension 4. Part A/MAI: All FFY24-25 contracts are under negotiation 5. HRSA EHE: All FFY24-25 contracts are under negotiation PART A & MAI FISCAL UPDATE 1. Expenditures Through January CATEGORY Part A Formula MAI MAI Carryover Budgeted Amount Expended Amount Percent Expended $3,374,977 $3,054,161 90% $388,620 $280,267 72% $16,925 $16,925 100% Part A Formula Carryover $449,918 $167,654 37% Part A Supplemental $1,774,600 $1,734,823 98% TOTAL $6,005,040 $5,253,830 87% • Correction made in Part A Formula Carryover Expenditures from last report. • Will be processing final claims by end of March. Austin TGA Administrative Agent Report to HIV Planning Council, January 2024, Page 12 CLINICAL QUALITY MANAGEMENT 1. CQM Plan Development and Next Steps: The CQM plan is currently being revised to include EHE and Part C activities, monitoring and evaluation. HRA team will meet with HRSA to review CQM Plan prior to finalization. 2. CQM Performance Measures: CQM performance measures for Part A/MAI, Part C and EHE have been drafted and shared with the CQM Committee. Performance measures will be finalized after review from the HRSA TA. 3. Newly Diagnosed Linkage to Care presentation: Staff from Collaborative Research provided a presentation to our subrecipients on March 14th, during the CQM Committee meeting which focused on linkage to care for newly diagnosed clients within the TGA. The focus was …
AUSTIN TGA RYAN WHITE PART A HIV/AIDS PROGRAM ADMINISTRATIVE/RAPID REALLOCATION REPORT ☒ Rapid Reallocation (November – February Only) ☐ Administrative Reallocation (Administration/Quality Management Funds Only) REALLOCATION INFORMATION Grant Year: 2023-2024 Date of Report: 02/29/2024 From Service Category/Amount To Service Category/Amount PART A CORE MEDICAL SERVICES ☐ Ambulatory Outpatient Health Services ☐ AIDS Pharmaceutical Assistance Local ☐ Oral Health Care ☐ Early Intervention Services ☒ Health Insurance Premium & Cost Sharing Assistance ☐ Mental Health Services ☐ Medical Nutrition Therapy ☐ Medical Case Management ☐ Substance Abuse Outpatient ☐ Ambulatory Outpatient Health Services ☐ AIDS Pharmaceutical Assistance Local ☐ Oral Health Care ☐ Early Intervention Services $5,576.41 ☐ Health Insurance Premium & Cost Sharing Assistance ☐ Mental Health Services ☐ Medical Nutrition Therapy ☒ Medical Case Management ☐ Substance Abuse Outpatient PART A SUPPORT SERVICES ☐ Non-Medical Case Management ☐ Emergency Financial Assistance ☐ Food Bank/Home Delivered Meals ☐ Housing ☐ Medical Transportation ☐ Substance Abuse Outpatient ☐ MAI Early Intervention Services ☐ MAI Non-Medical Case Management ☐ Non-Medical Case Management ☐ Emergency Financial Assistance ☐ Food Bank/Home Delivered Meals ☐ Housing ☐ Medical Transportation ☐ Substance Abuse Outpatient MAI ☐ MAI Early Intervention Services ☐ MAI Non-Medical Case Management $5,576.41 ☐ Administration ☐ Quality Management TOTAL REALLOCATION FROM: ADMINISTRATION/QUALITY MANAGEMENT ☐ Administration ☐ Quality Management $5,576.41 TOTAL REALLOCATION TO: $5,576.41 Percent of NEW Direct Services total represented by this reallocation: XX.X% Cumulative Percent of NEW Direct Services total reallocated during this grant year: XX.X% CIRCUMSTANCES RELATED TO THIS REALLOCATION The timing of getting approved for transferring from EFA to HIPCSA made it difficult to identify enough eligible patients for enrollment in HIPCSA services. Based on this, funding identified for the assistance must be transferred to other service categories that have excess expenditure beyond current service category funding. ☒ Without this reallocation, the funds in the “From” boxes are not expected to be spent within the grant year ☒ This reallocation will preserve the HRSA 75% minimum Core Medical Services spending requirement for the current grant year Approved: Signature of TGA Project Director Version 2020-08-24 02/29/24 Date
AUSTIN TGA RYAN WHITE PART A HIV/AIDS PROGRAM ADMINISTRATIVE/RAPID REALLOCATION REPORT ☒ Rapid Reallocation (November – February Only) ☐ Administrative Reallocation (Administration/Quality Management Funds Only) REALLOCATION INFORMATION Grant Year: FY 2024 Date of Report: 03/07/2024 From Service Category/Amount To Service Category/Amount PART A CORE MEDICAL SERVICES ☐ Ambulatory Outpatient Health Services ☐ AIDS Pharmaceutical Assistance Local ☐ Oral Health Care ☒ Early Intervention Services ☐ Health Insurance Premium & Cost ☒ Ambulatory Outpatient Health Services ☐ AIDS Pharmaceutical Assistance Local ☐ Oral Health Care 7,638.15 ☐ Early Intervention Services ☐ Health Insurance Premium & Cost Sharing Assistance ☐ Mental Health Services ☐ Medical Nutrition Therapy ☒ Medical Case Management ☐ Substance Abuse Outpatient Sharing Assistance ☐ Mental Health Services ☒ Medical Nutrition Therapy 9,033.34 ☐ Medical Case Management ☐ Linguistics PART A SUPPORT SERVICES ☐ Non-Medical Case Management ☐ Emergency Financial Assistance ☐ Food Bank/Home Delivered Meals ☐ Housing ☒ Medical Transportation ☒ Linguistics ☐ MAI Early Intervention Services ☐ MAI Non-Medical Case Management ☒ Non-Medical Case Management ☐ Emergency Financial Assistance ☒ Food Bank/Home Delivered Meals ☐ Housing 10,117.00 ☐ Medical Transportation 4,881.00 ☐ Substance Abuse Outpatient MAI ☐ MAI Early Intervention Services ☐ MAI Non-Medical Case Management ☐ Administration ☐ Quality Management TOTAL REALLOCATION FROM: ADMINISTRATION/QUALITY MANAGEMENT ☐ Administration ☐ Quality Management TOTAL REALLOCATION TO: 13,857.97 5,135.53 129.45 12,546.54 Percent of NEW Direct Services total represented by this reallocation: XX.X% Cumulative Percent of NEW Direct Services total reallocated during this grant year: XX.X% CIRCUMSTANCES RELATED TO THIS REALLOCATION We utilized other resources for Linguistic and medical transportation. As such the funds are to be used in other categories. EIS and Medical Case Management has staff turnover which reduced the use of the funds. We had more need for Nutrition, OAHS, Food and a slight increase for non-medical case management. ☒ Without this reallocation, the funds in the “From” boxes are not expected to be spent within the grant year ☒ This reallocation will preserve the HRSA 75% minimum Core Medical Services spending requirement for the current grant year Approved: Signature of TGA Project Director Version 2020-08-24 3/8/24 Date
AUSTIN AREA HIV PLANNING COUNCIL The mission of the HIV Planning Council is to develop and coordinate an effective and comprehensive community-wide response to HIV. Planning Council: Office of Support Staff Report March 25, 2024 Business Committee Meeting OFFICE OF SUPPORT STAFF Kodjo Dodo, Manager Kodjo.Dodo@austintexas.gov Nathalia Delgadillo, Planner II Nathalia.Delgadillo@austintexas.gov Zaria Thomas, Planner I zaria.thomas@austintexas.gov. Deena Rawleigh, Admin Sr. Deena.Rawleigh@austintexas.gov AUSTIN AREA HIV PLANNING COUNCIL MEMBERS TOTAL 6 (1 Non-voting member) 1. Kelle’ Martin, Chair 2. Zachery Garay 3. Ashley Garling 4. Rocky Lane, Non-Voting 5. Kristina McRae-Thompson 6. Gin Pham Prospective Members 1. Judith Hassan 2. Marquis Goodwin 3. Alicia Alston 4. Joe Anderson Jr. Summary • The Austin Area HIV Planning Council (HIVPC) is at 6 members. o 4 members are pending approval from CEO (one member was resubmitted along with new applicants due to incomplete training). o Jonathan has resigned from his position effective March 15, 2024 o New Requirement from BCIC: Pending members are waiting for City Council Approval • Kelle’ Martin will be joining the GMCS committee temporarily until new members are onboarded • Two people are eligible to interview at the next GMCS Meeting • The Needs Assessment Year 2 literature review topic selection is expected to take place during the April FASPNA meeting • The CAB/Caucus Partnership rotation schedule is being planned. • If the HIVPC would be interested in having bi-weekly office hours with the Office of Support Planners, please send a preferred time and date as to when you would like to have this resource available. • The Office of Support has created an event requests form for the community to request the HIVPC to join. Council is invited to provide comments and edits to the Event form, as needed. This discussion can be followed up in the Governance/Membership and Care Strategies committee. Event Requests Form https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HIVPCEvents HIV PLANNING COUNCIL COMMITTEE UPDATES • Executive Committee needs nominations for Vice Chair and Secretary. Per the bylaws, nominations must be made during a Business meeting. • Governance/Membership combined Care Strategies Committee (GMCS) committee chair is Zachery Garay o March meeting was canceled after BC liaison informed OoS that a member is ineligible due to lack of completed trainings. This member will be resubmitted to the CEO for approval. o During February, Planning Council received interest from two people. They will be eligible to interview at the next available GMCS meeting o Three …
MEMORANDUM To: Kelle’ Martin, Chair HIV Planning Council (Austin Area TGA) From: Social Determinants of Health & Equity Working Group Austin Fast Track Cities Contact: Rick Astray-Caneda III, rickyaciii@gmail.com, 786.325.7425; and Michelle Osorio, michelle.osorio@austintexas.gov, 941-269-9288 Cc: Rick Astray-Caneda III, Friends of the David Powell Clinic; Flor Hernandez-Ayala, Austin Public Health; Avery Westendorf, CommUnityCare; Michelle Osorio, Austin Public Health February 21, 2024 Request for Funds, Partnership, and In-kind Support to Administer the Persons Living with HIV Stigma Index 2.0 in the Austin Transitional Grant Area Dear Kelle’: Subsequent to our presentations related to the administration of the Persons Living with HIV Stigma Index 2.0 in the Austin Transitional Grant Area on September 25, 2023, and February 14, 2024, the Social Determinants of Health & Equity Working Group of the Austin Fast Track Cities Initiative requests support of the HIV Planning Council for the Austin Area TGA. Thank you for allowing us time to present this to the Planning Council on the prior occasions and thank you for considering this request. In Appendix A, we provide an overview of the project. At present we are recruiting approximately 12 people, including at least five living with HIV, to lead this effort. We ask that the Planning Council considers supporting this effort in as many of the ways below as you can. We know that the Planning Council has many priorities, and we appreciate any assistance toward this valuable effort. Monetary Amount Request Sponsor the administration of the Persons Living with HIV Stigma Index 2.0 in the Austin Transitional Grant Area. The sponsorship sends a message of legitimacy and importance to our community. Allow us to table with you at events to recruit Steering Committee members and later to recruit interviewees. This gives the initiative exposure and through presence with the Planning Council adds legitimacy. Sponsor all or part of the first year of stipends for Steering Committee Members. We calculate that at 12 members x three hours per month x $20 per hour at Austin’s living wage x 12 months. Assist us identifying a medical or social service organization that will allow us to use their calendaring system to schedule interviews. Set aside funds to help with logistics and tools for the Steering Committee. We have put a suggested amount of $2,000. This money would be used for $0.00 $0.00 $8,640.00 $0.00 $2,000.00 Page 1 of 5 # 1 2 3 4 5 …
