TECHNOLOGY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING Wednesday – March 5th, 2025 – 6:30PM Austin Energy – Mueller Assembly Room – Room 1111a 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723 Some members of the BOARD/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, email Dan Martinez at dan.martinez@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Steven Apodaca, Chair Keith Pena-Villa Thomas Rice Suzanne Heritage Sumit DasGupta AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carina Alderete, Vice Chair Brian AM Williams Gabriel Nwajiaku Ibiye Anga The first ten speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will 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 Technology Commission meeting on February 12th, 2025. 2. Presentation on the Professional Development and EdExchange program (Madeleine Edwards, CEO, Austin Children’s Museum) DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation on the status of the city’s participation and involvement in the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment program challenge process (Khotan Harmon, Program Manager, City of Austin Economic Development Department) 4. Presentation regarding Grant received applications (Dan Martinez, Business Process Specialist, City of Austin Community Technology Division) for Technology Opportunities Program 5. Presentation on the City of Austin and Travis County’s collaborative Digital Needs Assessment (Chloe Munn, Reyda Taylor from Travis County and Jesse Rodriguez from City of Austin) DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Review and approval of recommendation for maintaining Funding for the Grant for Technology Opportunities Program (GTOPs) in the FY26 Budget 7. Review and approval of recommendation for funding an affordable device distribution & repair program in the FY26 Budget FY26 budget in the FY26 Budget 8. Review and approval of recommendation for expanding public internet access in the 9. Review and approval of recommendation for increased funding for Digital Skills training 10. Review and Approval of recommendation for continued funding for AI upskilling for City of Austin employees in the FY26 Budget WORKING GROUP UPDATES 11. Public Surveillance working group updates regarding further meetings with surveillance stakeholders 12. Artificial …
Recommendation for Continued Funding for AI Upskilling for City of Austin Employees in the FY26 Budget WHEREAS, artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries, including government operations, and enhancing efficiencies in data analysis, decision-making, and service delivery; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has already made initial investments in AI training and upskilling programs to ensure that its workforce is equipped with the necessary knowledge and tools to leverage AI-based technologies effectively; and WHEREAS, the previous requested budget amendment during FY2025 of $75,000 for AI training, technical assistance, and continuing education has provided City employees with critical skills in data science, design, and AI applications; and WHEREAS, demand for AI-related education and resources continues to grow among City employees, highlighting the need for sustained investment in training programs; and WHEREAS, the expansion of initiatives such as the DIVE (Data Impact Visualization and Exploration) program would further support the City’s commitment to fostering technological innovation and digital proficiency among its workforce; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Technology Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate continued funding in the FY26 Budget to sustain and expand AI upskilling initiatives for City of Austin employees, ensuring they remain proficient in emerging technologies that enhance public service delivery.
Recommendation for Maintaining Funding for the Grant for Technology Opportunities Program (GTOPs) in the FY26 Budget WHEREAS, digital inclusion remains a critical issue for the residents of Austin, impacting access to essential services, economic opportunities, and educational resources; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has demonstrated its commitment to digital equity through continued investment in initiatives that support underserved communities; and WHEREAS, the Grant for Technology Opportunities Program (GTOPs) has a proven track record of funding impactful community programs that provide digital literacy training, access to devices, and broadband connectivity to Austin residents; and WHEREAS, maintaining the GTOPs budget at $400,000 will ensure the program’s continued impact, enabling more organizations to bridge the digital divide and support the City’s strategic goals on digital equity; and WHEREAS, community organizations rely on GTOPs funding to expand digital inclusion programs, ensuring that residents have access to the technology and skills necessary to participate fully in an increasingly digital world; and WHEREAS, continued investment in GTOPs aligns with the City of Austin’s strategic objectives related to digital equity, workforce development, and economic opportunity; and WHEREAS, the GTOPs program offers multiple funding pathways to ensure a comprehensive approach to addressing digital inclusion challenges, including Core Funding, Mini Funding, and Capacity Funding; and WHEREAS, Core Funding supports large-scale initiatives aimed at significantly advancing digital inclusion efforts within the community; and WHEREAS, Mini Funding serves as a vital resource for smaller-scale projects and initiatives seeking to make meaningful contributions to digital inclusion efforts in Austin; and WHEREAS, Capacity Funding provides essential support to grassroots organizations and initiatives, enabling them to build capacity and expand their reach in addressing digital inclusion disparities within underserved communities; and WHEREAS, the demand for digital inclusion funding continues to grow, with community organizations reporting an ongoing need for financial resources to support programs that enhance digital access and literacy; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Community Technology and Telecommunications Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate $400,000 in the FY26 Budget to the Grant for Technology Opportunities Program (GTOPs) to further advance digital inclusion efforts citywide.
Recommendation for Funding an Affordable Device Distribution & Repair Program in the FY26 Budget WHEREAS, access to affordable, functioning digital devices is essential for participation in education, employment, healthcare, and government services; and WHEREAS, the Travis County - City of Austin Broadband and Digital Equity Needs Assessment found that lower-income households, older adults, and individuals with disabilities face significant barriers to obtaining and maintaining digital devices; and WHEREAS, planned obsolescence, high repair costs, and lack of affordable device options disproportionately affect underserved communities; and WHEREAS, expanding access to low-cost or refurbished devices and repair services would enable more Austin residents to participate fully in the digital economy; and WHEREAS, creating a dedicated GTOPs Hardware Fund would allow for targeted grants supporting device distribution and repair programs through partnerships with local nonprofits, libraries, and community organizations; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Community Technology and Telecommunications Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate funding in the FY26 Budget to establish a GTOPs Hardware Fund, ensuring that all residents have access to affordable devices and repair services, thereby closing the digital divide in Austin.
Recommendation for Expanding Public Internet Access in the FY26 Budget WHEREAS, reliable internet access is essential for education, employment, healthcare, and civic engagement; and WHEREAS, the Travis County - City of Austin Broadband and Digital Equity Needs Assessment found that many residents rely on public Wi-Fi to access essential services but face inconsistent availability; and WHEREAS, expanding free public internet access at libraries, parks, transit hubs, and community centers would increase digital inclusion for residents without reliable home connectivity; and WHEREAS, investment in public Wi-Fi infrastructure would particularly benefit lower-income residents, unhoused individuals, and communities with limited broadband options; and WHEREAS, extending public Wi-Fi service hours and coverage areas would enhance accessibility for those who rely on it for job applications, remote learning, and telehealth services; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Technology Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate funding in the FY26 Budget to expand and enhance public internet access across the city, ensuring equitable digital access for all residents in the following ways: - Public internet access points with after-hour and weekend hours of operation - Public computer labs should be equipped with robust features, like webcams and private spaces for private communications (like telehealth visits) and device charging stations - Emergency response locations should have resilient internet/phone connectivity and charging stations.
Recommendation for Increased Funding for Digital Skills Training in the FY26 Budget WHEREAS, digital skills are increasingly necessary for full participation in the workforce, education, healthcare, and civic engagement; and WHEREAS, the Travis County - City of Austin Broadband and Digital Equity Needs Assessment found that lower-income residents, older adults, justice-impacted individuals, and non-native English speakers face significant barriers to digital literacy; and WHEREAS, survey data indicate that 59% of respondents would be interested in free digital skills training for themselves or a household member, with interest particularly high among individuals without home internet access; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has an opportunity to expand digital literacy programs through partnerships with libraries, schools, community organizations, and workforce development centers; and WHEREAS, the demand for digital literacy training continues to grow, and increased investment will ensure residents have access to relevant skills training in multiple formats, including in- person, online, and hybrid learning; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Technology Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate additional funding in the FY26 Budget for expanding digital skills training programs, ensuring free and accessible training opportunities for Austin residents who face the greatest barriers to digital literacy.
REGULAR MEETING of the EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER ADVISORY BOARD Wednesday, March 5, 2025, 6:00 PM City Hall – Boards and Commissions Room 301 W. Second St. Austin, TX 78701 Some members of the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Advisory Board may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by 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. To speak in person, registration is required at least 10 min prior to the start of the meeting. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register call or email the board liaison at 512-974-3771 or michelle.rojas@austintexas.gov BOARD MEMBERS Angelica Navarro, Chair (D-8) Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz, Vice Chair (Mayor) Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Member (D-10) Noemi Castro, Member (D-2) John Estrada, Member (D-3) Gerardo Gandy, Member (D-7) Vacant, Member (D-9) Cynthia “Cy” Herrera, Member (D-5) Mónica Siañez, Member (D-6) Anthony Martinez, Member (D-4) Raul “Roy” Reyna, Member (D-1) 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 (3) three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Regular Meeting of February 5, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on the new Office of Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment, February Education and Holistic Wellness programs, marketing and outreach efforts, and updates on La Mujer: A Celebration of Women event planning. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Marjorie Flanagan, Division Manager and ESB-MACC Staff DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Update on the ESB-MACC Phase 2 Construction Project. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager 4. Update by Laura Esparza, Executive Director of A3 Art Alliance Austin, on efforts to provide a donation to the ESB-MACC Caminos program and an upcoming collaboration with ESB-MACC called Fiesta Reclamada, May 4th at The Cathedral. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Laura Esparza, Executive Director of A3 Art Alliance Austin DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Presentation and recommendation by Dr. Angela Valenzuela requesting financial support for Academia Cuauhtli programming for fiscal year 25-26 budget. (Sponsors: Martinez, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Dr. Angela Valenzuela, Professor at The University of …
Commission for Women Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 5, 2025 COMMISSION FOR WOMEN Wednesday, February 5, 2025 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The Commission for Women convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St, Austin, Texas, Boards and Commissions, Room 1101. Chair Tau called the Commission for Women Meeting to order at 12:03 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Jocelyn Tau, Chair Rebecca Austen Katrina Scheihing Becky Bullard, Vice Chair Vanessa Bissereth Diana Melendez Fernanda Veloz-Salas PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission for Women regular meeting on January 8, 2025. The minutes from the meeting on January 8, 2025, were approved on Chair Tau’s motion, Commissioner Austen’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Harris and Rattan were absent. 1 Commission for Women Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 5, 2025 2. Update from the Joint Inclusion representative on the recent work of the Joint Inclusion DISCUSSION ITEMS Committee. Postponed without objection. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Discussion of possible FY26 draft budget recommendations and formation of a Budget Working Group to research and write budget recommendations. The motion to form a FY 26 Budget Working Group to research and write budget recommendations was approved on Chair Tau’s motion, Vice Chair Bullard’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Harris and Rattan were absent. Chair Tau, Vice Chair Bullard, Commissioners Veloz Salas and Melendez were added to the working group without objection. 4. Collective Sex Crimes Response Model (CSCRM) Working Group Q4 2024 progress update, including overview of project management dashboard and burndown timelines, project scope changes, challenges, and risks. WORKING GROUP UPDATES Discussed. Item 2 was reconsidered without objection. 2. Update from the Joint Inclusion representative on the recent work of the Joint Inclusion DISCUSSION ITEMS Committee. Discussed. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Imagine Austin – (Scheihing) (Tau, Austen) Update from the Budget Working Group with possible action to approve recommendations Update from the Quality of Life Study Working Group (Tau) 2 Commission for Women Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 5, 2025 Update from the Recognition Working Group (Tau) ADJOURNMENT Chair Tau adjourned the meeting at 12:33 p.m. without objection. 3
EMMA S. BARRIENROS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER REGULAR MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2025 The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at City Hall – Board and Commissions Room located at 301 West Second Street in Austin, Texas 78701. (Some members of the ESB-MACC Advisory Board participated via videoconference.) Chair Navarro called the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Meeting to order at 6:02pm. Board Members in Attendance: Board Members Absent: Angelica Navarro, Chair Gerardo Gandy, Member Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz, Vice Chair Raul “Roy” Reyna, Member Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Member Noemi Castro, Member John Estrada, Member Mónica Siañez, Member Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Cynthia “Cy” Herrera, Member Anthony Martinez, Member (Arrived at 6:15pm/Left at 7:12pm) Staff in Attendance: Marjorie Flanagan, PARD Division Manager of Museums and Cultural Programs Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager Marie Ortiz, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Supervisor Tina Davila, ESB-MACC Administrative Specialist PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Chair Navarro took a moment to introduce commissioner Mónica Siañez and asked her to share a little about herself and why she joined the ESB-MACC Advisory board. Member Siañez let the board know she was an assistant professor for the University of Texas at Austin Public Health Program. She mentioned the work she did in public health was about empowering and encouraging students to get involved with their communities. Taking that into account, she shared that she had only lived in Austin for 5 years and hadn’t had a chance to get involved with her local community, so she felt it was important for her to be involved in some capacity and decided to join the board. 1 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. The minutes from the Regular meeting of January 8, 2025, were approved on Member Castro’s motion. Vice Chair Zamarripa-Saenz seconded. Unanimous vote (7.0). Motion passed. Members Gandy, Martinez, and Reyna absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on staffing updates, December and January programs, marketing and outreach efforts, and updates on signature event planning. Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager provided an update on the Holistic Wellness programs Will Clinic event that was held at Hardie Alcozer Law Firm where the goal was to help community members create basic wills, ensuring their wishes were legally documented and their families are protected. The program was created to help individuals gain peace of mind …
3.5.25 MACC Staff Report – Website - Facebook - Instagram Please share our social media posts, sign up for our newsletter, and check out our upcoming events! Holistic Wellness Programming Past: All-Levels Yoga: Saturdays @ 10:30-11:30am Southeast Library. Attendance: 50 Focuses on body awareness, connection with the breath, with gentle movement, and time for meditation and relaxation. The library has mats to share. Chair Yoga: 3rd Wed of each month @ 10am Dove Springs Recreation Center. Attendance:5 A gentle form of yoga that can be done seated in a chair. These modifications make yoga accessible to people with various physical abilities. Chair Yoga: Friday, Feb 21 @ 10:30am Yarborough Library. Attendance:8 A gentle form of yoga that can be done seated in a chair. These modifications make yoga accessible to people with various physical abilities. Slow Flow + Sound Healing: 4th Sat of each month @ 1:30-2:30pm My Vinyasa Practice- Highland Studio. Attendance: 3 Join us for a serene and rejuvenating yoga experience that combines gentle yoga poses, breathing techniques, and guided relaxation with sound healing bowls to help calm the mind. Taller Abierto: Painting Workshop (15+): 4th Sat of each month @ 2-4pm North Village Branch Library. Attendance:13 Art classes for all levels. Includes exploration of different techniques. All materials provided! Pre- registration required. Nourishing Flow: 1st Sat of each month @ 1:30-2:30pm My Vinyasa Practice- SoCo Studio. Attendance:3 A gentle and restorative yoga class that invites you to reconnect with your body and breath. Through mindful movement, soothing breathwork, and the healing power of sound, we’ll cultivate a deep sense of relaxation Guitar Lessons (15+): Tuesdays, starting January 28 @ 3-4:15 George Washington Carver Museum. Beg: 3-3:30pm / Inter: 3:45-4:15pm. Attendance: 27 Join accomplished musician Mauricio Callejas for guitar lessons for beginners (finger placement, strumming, sight-reading) and intermediate (chord progressions, ear training, reading sheet music) students. Please bring your guitar. Voice/Guitar/Songwriting Lessons Beg/Inter (15+): Mondays, starting Jan. 27 @ 4-5pm Windsor Park Library. Attendance: 22 Join award winning song-writer Javier Jara for voice, guitar and songwriting lessons. Skills addressed: left and right hand technique, chords, arpeggios, strumming patterns, vocal technique, and songwriting approaches. Please bring your own guitar. Taller Abierto: Lending Library Painting (18+): Tuesdays, Jan 14 -Feb 18 @ 9-11am. Dove Springs Recreation Center. Attendance: 21 Art classes for all levels. Includes exploration of different techniques. All materials provided! Pre-registration required. Drumming Lessons: 4th Sat of each …
Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Phase 2 Improvements Project Update March 5, 2025 Heidi Tse, Capital Delivery Project Manager PROJECT TIMELINE: ESB MACC Groundbreaking for Phase 2 Improvements / Move-Out Began– 12/10/22. • • Parking Lot Closure – 3/10/23. • Contractor Mobilization/Pre-construction Inspections – Began 3/11/23. • Permitting (Site) – Approved on 7/25/23. • Bidding & Negotiation (GMP1/Site) – Executed contract on 8/28/23. • Construction (Site) – Underway since 8/28/23. • Permitting (Building) – Approved on 3/4/24. • Bidding & Negotiation (GMP2/Building) – Executed contract on 3/7/24. • Construction (Site + Building) – Currently underway. • AIPP ESB-MACC Phase 2 – Artist(s) selection approval by Austin City Council on 8/29/24 • • Building dry-in – Process of ensuring the building envelope is weather sealed is expected March. Topping Out – Topmost structural beam was lifted into place on 9/11/24. • The below freezing temperatures and wet days have slowed outdoor work in February. CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS: • Site retaining walls at Zocalo are 85% complete. • Brick installation is ongoing at the north addition. • New elevator has been delivered and installation is in progress. • Exterior stairs and handrailing’s are being welded in place. • Installation of major mechanical equipment is 60% complete. • Window installation is underway. • Tape & float of interior drywall continues. • Re-roof of the auditorium will resume with dry weather forecast. Site Tour: The City of Austin invites the MACC Advisory Board to a construction tour on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at 4:00 pm to witness the progress firsthand. The building is projected to be completely enclosed. The site is still very active but the City wants to offer this last opportunity for a tour to show how the building and grounds have transformed from a vision to a reality. Additional Enhancements to Phase 2: In response to the MACC Advisory Board question on returning the value engineered items from Phase 2 as referenced in the memo from PARD to the MACC Advisory Board dated 1/5/24, the City believes many of the these construction related items should be grouped into a new capital improvement project. The current goal is to complete the existing construction requirements and transitioning the center back to the City within budget and the target delivery of Fall 2025. Items which can be installed after construction such as acoustical panels, TV monitors, and displays could be added if new …
L A U R A E S P A R Z A E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R W H AT I S A 3 ? - A non-profit Local Arts Agency devoted to supporting artists, musicians, performers and arts contractors who make Austin a vibrant city by raising money and raising awareness. - An all-volunteer organization of business and arts professionals who believe that the arts are integral to our quality of life. - A catalyst for community change in collaboration with others who are committed to the value of the arts. WHAT IS A LOCAL ARTS AGENCY? • The nation’s 4,500 Local Arts Agencies (LAAs) promote, support, and develop the arts at the local level ensuring a vital presence for the arts throughout America’s communities. LAAs are diverse in their makeup—they have many different names and embrace a spectrum of artistic disciplines. But each LAA, in its own way, works to sustain the health and vitality of the arts and artists locally, while also striving to make the arts accessible to all members of a community. • The Cultural Arts Division is a Local Arts Agency but cities can have more than one thus diversifying the funding pool. • Americans for the Arts tells us that the Arts strengthen the economy and community cohesiveness. WHO IS A3? PA S T • The Texas Fine Arts Association started in 1911 at the Elisabet Ney Museum. In 1950 it fundraised for Laguna Gloria Museum with an Arts and Crafts Festival. In 1956 they renamed their festival FIESTA, in an inappropriate act of cultural appropriation. In 1989 the organization became Art Alliance Austin and produced Art City Austin. It went dormant in 2020 due to COVID-19 pandemic. • Relaunched in September 2024 as an LAA. • • • • P R E S E N T • Austin’s first non-profit Local Arts Agency with a diverse board including: • Board Chair Eric Hiduke, Attorney-at-Law • Vice-Chair Kevin Ivester, Gallery Owner • Treasurer Imani Aanu, Director RECLAIM! • David Goujon, Architect • Andrea Hyland, Event Producer • Kayo Asazu, Restaurant owner/operator • Advisors: Constance White (Airport Arts & Music) Lourdes Rodriguez (ED David Rockefeller Fund) Lydia Galvan (Teacher) Dana Friis-Hansen (Retired Museum Director) HOW CAN A3 FUND CITY FACILITIES? • City staff and Commissioners cannot solicit funds from individuals, businesses or …
EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER ADVISORY BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20250305- Date: March 5, 2025 Subject: FY2026 Budget Recommendations Motioned By: Recommendation The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Advisory Board (MACC) recommends the City Council direct the City Manager to take the following actions and to allocate additional funds for the following items for FY 2026. These recommendations include actions that can be taken immediately outside the budget process and recommendations for the FY 2026 budget: Description of Recommendation to Council 1. Allocate funding for items that were removed from the MACC’s Phase 2 project for a total amount between $2.2 and $2.4 in the FY26 budget. Seconded By: Rationale: Phase 2 Operating Budget In 2018 a comprehensive community engagement was completed as part of the Facility Expansion Plan which included community members and Austin City Council members. The Austin City Council unanimously voted to adopt the 2018 Facility Expansion Plan on May 24, 2018, with the intent to complete all remaining phases without preconditions on funding sources. The 2018 Bond Committee recommended, and Austin City Council approved $27 million to be included under Proposition B for the ESB-MACC Phase 2 project. 74 percent of voters in the 2018 election voted in favor of Proposition B. The Joint Venture team of Miro Rivera Architects (Austin) and Estudio Tatiana Bilbao (Mexico City) was selected to lead the Phase 2 design in part because of their experience designing world-class facilities. The project team has been diligently working on completing the project slated for completion in the Fall of 2025. The Mexican American Cultural Center Advisory Board recommends to the Austin City Council to allocate the necessary amount needed to complete the items as were presented during community engagement to fulfill the commitment by the City of Austin to complete a Phase 2 expansion and renovation that is commensurate with a world-class cultural center that continues to be a reflection of the strength and resiliency of Austin’s Mexican American community. 1 of 2 Vote For: Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: Michelle Rojas, Staff Liaison 2 of 2
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS MARCH 5, 2025 HR-2025-014398 HYDE PARK LOCAL HISTORIC DISTRICT 4105 AVENUE G 5.0 – 1 PROPOSAL Reconstruct the front elevation and construct a second-story addition. PROJECT SPECIFICATIONS 1) Rebuild the original design of the front porch, including restoration of windows, siding, and porch finishes. 2) Replace deteriorated or missing siding on all elevations. 3) Construct a ground-floor addition at the rear right corner. 4) Construct a second-story addition, set back from the front of the original house. ARCHITECTURE DESIGN STANDARDS The house at 4105 Avenue G is a single-story Craftsman-style building with a wide, deep front porch that is supported at the corners by two ample posts clad in stucco. The porch and stair accessing it are both concrete in construction, likely a replacement or earlier wood systems. Two large front windows, which appear to be original, face the street at the back of the porch. Above, a front gable projects forward and features a wide attic window it its center, which also includes some decorative ends supporting the fascia. The Hyde Park Design Standards are used to evaluate projects within the historic district. The following standards apply to the proposed project: 1. General Standards 1.2: Retention of Historic Style Proposed design retains the original style and seeks to rehabilitate damaged elements, but only at historic locations. 1.3: Avoidance of False Historicism After taking consideration of guidance offered by ARC, the additions feature elements that are compatible is scale and design to the historic, but do not reach the level of replication or false historicism. A visual break in the form of a setback breaks up the roof slope at the front of the house. 1.4: Appropriate Treatment Options for Contributing or Potentially Contributing Structures Intact historic material is proposed to be retained rather than replaced. Reconstructed elements, such as wood siding, is proposed to be from new material that generally matches size and dimensions of historic. 3. Residential Standards: Single Family and Contributing Multifamily – Preservation and Restoration 3.1 Front of Houses Historic approach and dimensions are to be retained; second-floor addition is proposed to be located over 15 feet from the front wall at the back of the porch. 3.5 Roofs The existing roof pitch is maintained, and a visual break between the original and the addition is clear and legible from the street. 3.6 Chimneys There is no …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS MARCH 5, 2025 PR-2025-011991 BRUNSON HOUSE 200 THE CIRCLE 6.0 – 1 PROPOSAL Construct a rear accessory structure. PROJECT SPECIFICATIONS ARCHITECTURE Construction of a rear building that includes the remodel of an existing detached garage and construction of an office/gym. Construction of a lap pool at rear of property. Additionally, some site grading and minor landscape work. Constructed in 1917, the Brunson House is an excellent example of the bungalow style in the Fairview Park neighborhood. The house is set at the highest point of the lot, with a steep slope leading from the street to the porch stairs. A front porch is supported by two brick columns holding up a curved gable projecting from a larger gable spanning the width of the house. There is decorative woodwork at both gables, and at the right of the building is a side porch. Windows and front door are all intact and in good condition. DESIGN STANDARDS The City of Austin’s Historic Design Standards (March 2021) are based on the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation and are used to evaluate projects at historic landmarks. The following standards apply to the proposed project: Residential new construction 1. Location New construction is at the rearmost section of the property. Given the grade changes on site, it will not be visible from the street. 2. Orientation Along with the existing garage that is proposed to be placed in service, the addition will orient towards the front and rear of the property. The rear is accessed by a private drive at an adjacent property, so it is not expected to be a main entry to the site. 3. Scale, massing, and height New construction is one story in height. Though it, along with the original house, are located at the highest area of the lot, it is to be minimally visible due to it being behind the main house. 4. Proportions The floor-to-ceiling height of the single-story addition is taller than the original house, but not to a degree that creates a stark disparity between the two. 5. Design and style The new construction is proposed to be largely glazed. After some revisions, the building was simplified to eliminate some more decorative elements that may have detracted from the original house 6. Roofs A low-slope roof is proposed to reduce visibility of the new construction, …
1412 Preston Ave. Objec�on to Proposed Building Permit. March 3, 2025 Candace & John Volz 1406 Preston Ave. Our objec�on to the proposed building permit is based on three concerns: 1)1412 Preston is a contribu�ng structure in our Old West Aus�n Na�onal Register Historic District (OWANRHD). The house is significant in that it was designed and built in the mid-1950s by Aus�n architect Kelly McAdams (1929-2014) and his wife Nancy Reeves McAdams (1929- 2005), also an architect. Kelly, based on his obituary, graduated “from the School of Architecture of The University of Texas at Aus�n in 1951. While s�ll a student, he passed the state architectural registra�on examina�on and became a registered architect at 21 years of age. A�er gradua�on, he worked in Aus�n as an associate architect with R. Gommel Roessner, FAIA, and as a partner with his wife Nancy R. McAdams, AIA, designing mid-century modern residences in Balcones Park, Pemberton Heights and Rosedale. As a staff architect with the firm of Page Southerland Page, he prepared the construc�on drawings of many Aus�n landmark buildings, including the Bergstrom AFB headquarters building (now the Airport Hilton Hotel) and the Headliners Club in the Westgate Tower. In 1968 he began work toward a master's degree in architecture and developed innova�ve computer methodologies for technical drawings and solar energy calcula�ons. He joined the faculty of the School of Architecture in 1970 and taught construc�on drawings and computer graphics un�l his re�rement from the University in 1988. For several years he served as Assistant to the Dean of Architecture with responsibility for advising students seeking admission to the School.” Nancy Reeves, from her obituary, “married Kelly R. McAdams of Aus�n in 1950, while both were seniors in the School of Architecture at The University of Texas at Aus�n. A�er gradua�ng in 1951, they prac�ced architecture together and as members of other firms. Pursuing an interest in research, Nancy returned to campus in 1961 and earned a Master of Library Science degree. In 1965 she began 20 years of service to the University, first as manager of the Architecture Library; then as Associate Director of General Libraries; as the Libraries project director for construc�on and occupancy of the Perry-Castaneda Library, Fine Arts Library and several other campus libraries; and finally as Associate Director of the Office of Planning Services, where she facilitated new construc�on and renova�on projects of all kinds for the Main and …
From: To: Subject: Date: Historic Preservation Office HR 25-007269 Monday, March 3, 2025 8:07:15 AM You don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Good morning, I am the homeowner of 404 E Annie Street, Austin Texas 78704. I'm writing in support of the project to be completed at 503 E. Annie. I have seen the plans, and they comport with the character of the neighborhood. I believe this project will be a great addition to the block. The owners of the property are respectful of the neighbors and the aesthetic of the area, and I have no doubt they will complete the project with care. Please don't hesitate to reach out if I can provide any other information. Best, Grace Matthews CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov".
Historic Preservation Office HR 25-007269 Monday, March 3, 2025 8:58:20 AM You don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution From: To: Subject: Date: Hello, Thank you, Tecuan Flores I am the home owner at 1910 Newning, Austin, TX 78704, and I support the new construction project at 503 E. Annie. CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov".
From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Historic Preservation Office Fahnestock, Sam 503 E. Annie Tuesday, March 4, 2025 9:31:27 AM You don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Hello, The applicant has been in touch with the neighborhood Historic Preservation Committee prior to the March 5 HLC meeting. We appreciate their proactive communication. They have shared their plans and sought feedback. We shared that we appreciate the set-back compatibility and smaller design of the two homes. The only feedback given mirrors City staff’s recommendations regarding a front gable addition and requesting any way to soften the contemporary design that distinguishes it from neighboring properties. Thank you – SRCC Historic Preservation Committee CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov".
