Public Safety Commission - Questions & Answers PENDING QUESTIONS: February 5, 2024 Item 4. Policing and Disabilities – Austin Police Department - Data Would like additional information from the planning and research department on data that is available around interactions with our disabled community and the police. APD is actively researching this topic and engaging with various subject matter experts. March 4, 2024 Item 2 - EMS Quarterly Update 1. Why were there not any provided in the eastern crescent in the last quarter? FY2024 Q1 had several items that limited our ability to conduct PURCs in the eastern crescent. o October—we conduct a pink PURC that necessitates an indoor location and privacy for specific examinations. These locations are typically done in central Austin. o We had a PURC scheduled at the Marshalling Yard which is in the 78741 zip code. That had to be rescheduled and was completed in January 2024. o Weather during this time of the year can be difficult which requires an indoor location to conduct a PURC. We have significant constraints for indoor options on the east side as many locations are joined with schools, kids activities or senior programing. 2. What plans are there for PURCs in the eastern crescent for this quarter and in the coming year and what outreach strategies are being used to determine need? For FY2024 Q2, we had 3 PURCs in the eastern crescent (78702, 78744, 78741). We are currently discussion a plan with PARD to formularize a plan to utilize locations that fall within the eastern crescent. This planning will determine location availability over the next 12 months so we can forecast future events. Here are some of our strategies to determine locations: o Appropriate facility given the time of year (cover, indoors, bathrooms, privacy, etc.) o Limit duplication of resources. We stay away from areas where other organizations are already providing services. o Determine locations that have both populations that are in need as well as limited or no services. o Locations need to be near or along a bus line. o Locations should be visible from the street and accessible. Public Safety Commission - Questions & Answers Our process for determining locations has been fluid. Initiatives like camping bans and area clean outs result in movement of vulnerable populations. We trend these movements and try to adjust our approach to ensure we are serving our intended …
Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, March 4, 2024 PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Monday, March 4, 2024 The Public Safety Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Monday, March 4, 2024, at City Hall Building, Boards and Commissions Room, 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Ramírez called the Public Safety Commission Meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Nelly Paulina Ramírez, Chair Rebecca Bernhardt, Vice-Chair David Holmes Pierre Nguyễn Kristy Orr Angelica Reyes Timothy Ruttan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Yasmine Smith PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Stephanie Ryan – support for APD Ruth Moonesinghe – death of her son, Raj Moonesinghe Carlos Leon – APD and CapMetro complaints APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on February 5, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of 02/05/2024, were approved on Commissioner Bernhardt’s motion, Commissioner Nguyễn’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Hall-Martin and Hermesmeyer were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation by Teresa Gardner, Austin Travis County Emergency Medical Services (ATCEMS) Chief of Staff regarding the Austin Travis County EMS Quarterly Report. 1 Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, March 4, 2024 Presentation was given by Stephen White, Acting Assistant Chief of Integrated Services. 3. Presentations by Chief of Staff Jeff Greenwalt, Austin Police Department; Chief of Staff Teresa Gardner, Austin Travis County Emergency Medical Services; and Chief of Staff Rob Vire, Austin Fire Department; Texas Harm Reduction Alliance and Vocal Texas on opioid use hot spots, prevention, and education efforts. Presentations were given by Stephen White, EMS Acting Assistant Chief of Integrated Services; Angela Carr, EMS Division Chief; Mike Sasser, EMS Captain; Cate Graziani, Vocal Texas; and Gaby Libretti, Texas Harm Reduction Alliance. Commissioner Smith requested EMS follow up to include: -geographical locations of the Pop Up Resource Clinics (PURC) and their outreach strategies -a map of the interventions administered through the Buprenorphine Bridge Program (BBP) -zip code data for where the rescue kits are distributed and where Narcan is administered prior to EMS arrival -data included on the Austin Public Health Opioid Overdose Dashboard for overdose calls that result in an arrest 4. Presentations by Chief of Staff Jeff Greenwalt, Austin Police Department; Chief of Staff Teresa Gardner, Austin Travis County Emergency Medical Services; and Chief of Staff Rob Vire, Austin Fire Department regarding electronic payroll system rollout. Presentations were given by Jeff Greenwalt, Chief of Staff, …
ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL Regular Meeting Minutes The Art in Public Places Panel convened a regular meeting on Monday, March 4, 2024, via Zoom. Chair Stephanie Lemmo called the Meeting to order at 6:03 PM. Panel Members in Attendance: Chair Stephanie Lemmo, Vice Chair J Muzacz, and Panel Members Sarah Carr, Kristi-Anne Shaer, and Lisa Woods. Staff in Attendance: EDD staff: Cultural Arts Division Manager Meghan Wells. AIPP staff: Project Coordinators Alex Irrera, Ryan Runcie, Frederico Geib, Sean Harrison, and Lindsay Hutchens. Guests in Attendance: Caitlin Young and Mandi Thomas from The Trail Conservancy, Raasin McIntosh and Emily Risinger from the Downtown Austin Alliance. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES The minutes from the Art in Public Places Panel Regular Meeting on Monday, February 5, 2024, were approved on the motion of Vice Chair Muzacz and Panel Member Shaer seconded. Passed 3-0-1, with Panel Member Carr abstaining. Panel Members Davis and Woods, and Arts Commission Liaison Maldonado absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion of Chair’s Report on AIPP Panel terms by Chair Lemmo. Discussion ensued; Panel Member Carr’s final term ends in May and Vice Chair Muzacz’s final term will begin in July. EDD Staff Wells is administering the nominating committee to fill the upcoming vacancy. Discussion of Arts Commission Liaison Report on Action items from February 2024, Arts Commissions Meeting by Arts Commission Liaison Maldonado. Commissioner Maldonado absent. AIPP Staff Hutchens reported on action items from February Arts Commission meeting. TEMPO Design Presentation by the Trail Conservancy. No action was taken. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS ACTION: Presentation of Downtown Austin Alliance Writing on the Walls Artwork Loan application by Raasin McIntosh, Downtown Austin Alliance Urban Activation Vice President, and Designate AIPP Panel Member to join the Departmental Review 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Committee. Chair Lemmo moved to nominate Vice Chair Muzacz to join the Department Review Committee. Panel Member Carr seconded. Passed 5-0-0, with Panel Member Davis and Arts Commission Liaison Maldonado absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 6. AIPP Staff updated AIPP Panel on collections care and repairs, as well as recent attendance to the Texas Public Art Administrators conference in San Antonio. AIPP Staff Geib also invited AIPP Panelists to attend the upcoming Georgian Acres Neighborhood Park AIPP Artwork Dedication. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS None. ADJOURNMENT Chair Lemmo adjourned the meeting at 7:24 PM without objection. The minutes were approved at the April 1, 2024, Art in Public Places Panel …
MUSIC COMMISSION BUDGET RECOMMENDATION FY24-25 20240304-13 Date: March 4, 2024 Subject: Music Commission budget recommendations for FY24-25 Motioned By: Parliamentarian Oren Rosenthal Seconded By: Commissioner Lauryn Gould Recommendation: Directive to City Council for the City to invest in Austin music economy initiatives to sustain, grow, and transform our music industry. Description of Recommendation to Council: The Music Commission recommends that the Austin City Council adopt the following budget recommendations: • Fiscal support for the Creative Space Assistance Program – match FY23-34 funding lever. CSAP awards between $5,000 and $50,000 to commercial creative spaces facing displacement or new leases at higher and unaffordable rates. Grant funds may be used for revenue-generating space improvements, partial lease payments, and gap financing for creative space purchases. $1.5 Million/ Source: General Fund • Fiscal support for Music and Entertainment Division musician performance program. Funding for city-sponsored music events (festivals, street performance program, City Council and Music Commission performances) showcasing artists from each of the 10 council districts and compensated at the city-approved rate of $200 per performance per musician. $100,000 / Source: General Fund • Fiscal support for the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians health insurance programs. Funding for HAAM’s health insurance navigator and insurance premium programs. $500,000 / Source: General Fund In addition, Music Commission recommends consideration of the following: • Initiation and fiscal support for a new disaster-related Stormy Weather Fund. Financial compensation for musicians and music workers demonstrating financial loss caused by declared disaster emergencies and resulting power failures. $800,000 per year ongoing, subject to adjust based on frequency of emergencies / Source: Austin Energy Annual Revenue • Fiscal support for Austin music marketing campaign. Develop and fund regional marketing campaign to increase attendance at local live music events and increase album sales for local artists. $400,000 / Source: Hotel Occupancy Tax 1 of 2 Rationale The music industry is vital to the economic and cultural life of our city and deserves the same investment as other key growth industries in Austin. • Music and musicians contribute significantly to Austin's economy, including our robust tourism economy. • The cost of living in Austin has risen to nearly unsustainable levels. From 2011 to 2021, the median home price in Austin increased from $193,000 to $517,000, and the median rent increased from $815 to $1,387. • Many musicians struggle to make a living in Austin due to affordability issues. According to a survey by …
MUSIC COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 4 March 2024 The Music Commission convened in a regular meeting on 4 March 2024, at City Hall Council Chambers 301 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701. Chair Medicharla called the Music Commission Meeting to order at 6:44 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Nagavalli Medicharla, Vice-Chair Anne-Charlotte Patterson Parliamentarian Oren Rosenthal, Leonard Davila, Lauryn Gould, Celeste Quesada Commissioners in Attendance: Nelson Aguilar, Tami Blevins, Jonathan Mahone, Scott Strickland CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Nagavalli Medicharla - Chair, Anne-Charlotte Patterson – Vice Chair, Oren Rosenthal – Parliamentarian, Nelson Aguilar, Tami Blevins, Leonard Davila, Lauryn Gould, Jonathan “Chaka” Mahone, Celeste Quesada, Scott Strickland CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA Jeanie Ramirez called in to speak for public communication. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. The minutes from the meeting on January 8, 2024, and February 5, 2024 were approved on Vice Chair Patterson’s motion, Commissioner Quesada’s second with a 9-2 vote. Commissioners Aguilar and Rosenthal abstained. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation on Black Artists and Professional Creatives Registry by Harold McMillan, Founder/President, East Austin Creative Coalition. Font Size: 12; Font: Times New Roman; Font Style: Regular 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 10. 11. 12. Presentation on music journalism and access to media coverage in Austin by Raoul Hernandez, Assistant Professor, School of Journalism and Media, University of Texas, Austin. Update on FY24 Austin Live Music Fund guidelines by Chair Medicharla. Commission candidate Pedro Carvalho owner of the Far Out, Erica Shamaly, Music & Entertainment Division Manager, and Sylnovia Holt-Rabb, Director of Economic Development Department, commented. Presentation on Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM) by Paul Scott, Chief Executive Officer, HAAM. Update on musical performances for Music Commission meetings by Shelbi Mitchell, Program Coordinator, Music & Entertainment, Economic Development Department. Presentation by Austin Federation of Musicians Local representative. Representative was not present. Discussion regarding all ages shows and how the City of Austin supports youth in Austin. Erica Shamaly, Music & Entertainment Division Manager, and Sylnovia Holt- Rabb, Director of Economic Development Department, commented. STAFF BRIEFINGS 9. Live Music Fund collections update by Kim McCarson, Program Manager, Music & Entertainment Division, Economic Development Department. Chair Medicharla motions to move item 13 before item 9, Patterson seconds with a unanimous vote. Update on consultant evaluation of the FY23 Live Music Fund Event Program by Erica Shamaly, Division Manager, Music & Entertainment Division. Update on calendar for Live Music Fund awardee events. Update …
Airport Advisory Commission COMMUNITY INTEREST ANNOUNCEMENT British Airways 10-year Anniversary with Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) March 3, 2024, 5PM – 7PM 3600 Presidential Blvd Austin, TX 78719 A quorum of the Commission may be present. No action will be taken. For further information contact: Jason Alexander, Board Liaison 512-530-6619 or jason.alexander@flyaustin.com
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 BYLAWS OF THE Joint Sustainability Committee ARTICLE 1. NAME. The name of the board is Joint Sustainability Committee. ARTICLE 2. PURPOSE AND DUTIES. The purpose of the board is to advise the council on matters related to conservation and sustainability; and review City policies and procedures relevant to the Austin Community Climate Plan and the Austin Climate Equity Plan, including planning, implementation, community engagement, goal setting, and progress monitoring; promote close cooperation between the council, City management, City boards, commissions, committees, and taskforces, and individuals, institutions, and agencies concerned with the politics, procedures, and implementation of the Austin Community Climate Plan and the Austin Climate Equity Plan with the goal of coordinating all similar activities within the City and the community in order to secure the greatest public benefit; and forward to the city manager all advisory material that the joint committee provides to the council, the Office of Sustainability, City departments and offices, or City boards, commissions, committees, and task forces. ARTICLE 3. MEMBERSHIP. (A) The board is composed of eighteen members. Twelve members are each a representative of the Austin Travis County Food Policy Board , Community Development Commission, the Economic Prosperity Commission, the Electric Utility Commission, the Environmental Commission, the Parks and Recreation Board, the Planning Commission, the Resource Management Commission, the Urban Transportation Commission, the Water and Wastewater Commission, the Zero Waste Advisory Commission, and the Design Commission. To ensure adequate community stakeholder representation and improve racial diversity, the council committee assigned oversight of social service policies will nominate one individual to serve on the joint committee and the mayor will nominate five individuals to serve on the joint committee. A nomination to the joint committee under this subsection is subject to approval by a majority vote of the council. Council will consider the racial composition of the joint committee when making new appointments. (B) A member serves at the pleasure of the city council. (C) Board members serve for a term of four years beginning March 1st on the year of appointment. (D) An individual board member may not act in an official capacity except through the action of …
REGULAR MEETING of the BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION Wednesday, February 28, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive, Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Building and Standards Commission may be participating via videoconference. The meeting may also be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live. 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. 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 Melanie Alley at 512-974-2679 or melanie.alley@austintexas.gov. AGENDA The Building and Standards Commission (“Commission”) may go into a closed session under Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code to receive advice from legal counsel or for other reasons permitted by law as specifically listed on this agenda. Further, if necessary, the Commission may go into a closed session as permitted by law regarding any item on this agenda. Building and Standards Commission Members Blaine Campbell Logan Schugart Stephen Truesdell, Fire Marshal (Ex Officio) Sade Ogunbode, Chair Timothy Stostad Joseph Benigno CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Edward Selig Michael Francis Luis Osta Lugo 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. 1. Approve the minutes of the Building and Standards Commission regular meeting on January 24, 2024 and special called meeting on February 12, 2024. APPROVAL OF MINUTES PUBLIC HEARINGS New Case(s): The Commission will hear the following cases concerning alleged violations of the City’s Property Maintenance Code and may issue an order to vacate, relocate occupants, repair, demolish, or secure the premises; and may assess civil penalties: 2. Case Number: CL 2024-004526 Property address: 1012 Reinli Street / Owner: 1012 Reinli St, LLC Staff presenter: Eric Finn Staff recommendation: Repair Repeat Offender Program commercial multi-family structure Page 1 3. Case Number: CL 2024-004525 and CL 2024-004523 Property address: 2301 Durwood St., Bldgs. 3 and 4 (aka 2324 Wilson St., aka Lucero Apartments) / Owner: 2013 Travis Oak Creek, LP Staff presenter: Eric Finn Staff recommendation: Repair Repeat Offender Program commercial multi-family structure 4. Case Number: CL 2023-140433 Property address: 2507 Bryan Street / Owner: Mary …
Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Advisory Board Community Interest Announcement Phase 2 Construction Project Site Visit February 28, 2024, at 12:00 pm Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center, 600 River St, Austin, TX 78701 A quorum of Commission members may be present. No action will be taken, and no Commission business will occur. Michelle Rojas, Board Liaison 512-974-3771
2. 3. 4. 5. 6. HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION PRESERVATION PLAN COMMITTEE Wednesday, February 28, 2024 – 6:00 P.M. Windsor Park Branch Library, Meeting Room #1 5833 Westminster Drive Austin, Texas 78723 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 board liaison at (512) 974-3393 or preservation@austintexas.gov. COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Raymond Castillo, Chair Tara Dudley Ben Heimsath AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 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 None posted for approval 1. DISCUSSION ITEMS Recap of Feb. 13 community kickoff event for the Equity-Based Preservation Plan Review criteria for success for the preservation plan Discuss process for reviewing and revising the preservation plan in summer 2024 Preview City-hosted events for the preservation plan in March, April, and May Review volunteer opportunities for committee members and Preservation Plan Working Group members around preservation plan outreach FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call the board liaison at the Historic Preservation Office at (512) 974-3393 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Preservation Plan Committee, please contact Cara Bertron at (512) 974-1446.
1. REGULAR CALLED MEETING of the ETHICS REVIEW COMMISSION FEBRUARY 28, 2024 at 6:00 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM, #1101 301 W 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Ethics Review Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public Speakers: Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. If participating remotely by telephone, a speaker must register no later than noon the day before the meeting. To register to speak remotely, contact Lizette Benitez at (512) 974-2915 or lizette.benitez@austintexas.gov. Vice-Chair Mary Kahle Secretary Nguyen Stanton-Adams Haksoon Andrea Low Alysa Nuñez Edward Espinoza William Ross Pumfrey District 2 – Vacancy CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Chair Luis Soberon Amy Casto Michael Lovins District 1 – Vacancy CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA There is no limit on the number of speakers who may speak on agenda items. There is a limit on the number of speakers who may speak on items not posted on the agenda—only the first ten speakers who register prior to the meeting being called to order will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address non-agenda items. For more information on public communication, please see the “Notice Regarding Public Communication” at the end of this agenda. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Consideration, discussion, and potential action regarding: Discussion of existing working groups (Race, Identity, and Equity Working Group, Working Group to Prepare Calendar of Commission Duties and Responsibilities, and 1 2. 3. Working Group to Review ERC Complaints Process), and potential amendments to current working group members. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Ethics Review Commission Regular Meeting on September 27, 2023. Approve the minutes of the Ethics Review Commission Regular Meeting on December 13, 2023. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Lizette Benitez, Wajiha Rizvi, or Victoria Hayslett at the Law Department, at (512) 974-2268 for additional information; TTY users’ route through Relay Texas at 711. For …
Active Working Groups - 2024 Kahle) • Race, Identity, and Equity Working Group (Consisting of Luis Soberon and Mary • Working Group to Prepare Calendar of Commission Duties and Responsibilities (Consisting of Ngyuen Stanton-Adams) – Creation of WG approved at July 2022 meeting. • Working Group to Review ERC Complaints Process (Consisting of Luis Soberon and Michael Lovins) – Creation of WG approved at August 2022 meeting.
JOINT SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE HYBRID MEETING FORMAT February 28, 2024 at 6pm Council Chambers, City Hall 301 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701 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, call or email Zach Baumer at (zach.baumer@austintexas.gov or 415-694-3111). CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Kaiba White, Chair (Electric Utility Commission) Diana Wheeler, Vice Chair (Urban Transportation Commission) Charlotte Davis (Resource Mgmt. Commission) Haris Qureshi (Environmental Commission) Melissa Rothrock (Zero Waste Advisory Commission) Bertha Delgado (Community Development Commission) Larry Franklin (Austin Travis County Food Policy Board) Chris Maxwell-Gaines (Water & Wastewater Commission) Amy Noel (Economic Prosperity Commission) Stephanie Bazan (Parks & Recreation Board) Jon Salinas (Design Commission) Vacant (City Council) Alice Woods (Planning Commission) Rodrigo Leal (Mayor’s Representative) Anna Scott (Mayor’s Representative) Heather Houser (Mayor’s Representative) Yureisly Suarez (Mayor’s Representative) Christopher Campbell (Mayor’s Representative) For more information, please visit: www.austintexas.gov/jsc AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the January 24th meeting of the Joint Sustainability Committee. DISCUSSION Council Meeting). 2. Discussion on the benefits of adopting and implementing the Great Streets Initiative. 3. Discussion of next steps on the Environmental Investment Plan Resolution (Item 25 from 2/15 4. Discussion of Joint Sustainability Committee strategic plan. 5. Update from the Zero Waste Advisory Commission on the Litter Abatement program, the Household Hazardous Waste door-to-door pilot program, multi-family composting, reports in progress, upcoming solicitations, a supplemental brush and bulk contract, and Digital Solutions for Waste Management Contract. 6. Update from the Urban Transportation Commission on Austin Transit Partnership light rail planning and next phases and MetroBike. 7. Update from the Planning Commission on DB-90 which creates a density bonus zoning district in an effort to replace VMU2 and Residential in Commercial density bonus programs that were invalidated by a lawsuit in December, in addition the Planning …
Joint Sustainability Committee RECOMMENDATION 20240228-XXX Date: February 28, 2024 Subject: Joint Sustainability Committee Budget Recommendations (Consumption & Natural Systems) Motioned By: Seconded By: Recommendation Description of Recommendation to Council Food and Product Consumption Budget Needs 1. Sustainable Purchasing: The City of Austin Climate Equity Plan Food & Product Consumption Goal 2 says “By 2030, greenhouse gas emissions from institutional, commercial, and government purchasing are reduced by at least 50%.“ Strategy 2 to achieve that goal is “Strengthen the City’s sustainable purchasing program.” Recent analysis by the Office of Sustainability shows that over 80% of the City of Austin’s greenhouse gas emissions come from the products and services that the city purchases. It is essential that the City establish a comprehensive Sustainable Purchasing Plan that sets minimum standards for all products and services the City procures. And the City must prioritize ongoing staff support to educate all departments on sustainable purchasing and ensure that purchasing decisions comply with the Sustainable Purchasing Plan. The Joint Sustainability Committee recommends that: a. $125,000 be allocated to hire a sustainable purchasing contractor and/or purchase needed software and databases to develop a Sustainable Purchasing Plan that sets minimum standards for all products, materials and services purchased by the city; and b. A full-time Sustainable Purchasing Director position should be added to the Purchasing Department. If an FTE is determined to be infeasible in this budget cycle, a temporary Sustainable Purchasing Director position should be established and funded. Natural Systems Budget Needs 2. Converting Impervious Cover to Functional Green: The City of Austin Climate Equity Plan Natural Systems Goal 4 says “By 2030, include all City-owned lands under a management plan that results in neutral or negative carbon emissions and maximizes community co-benefits.” Strategy 2 to achieve this goal is “Reclaim public space and prioritize green infrastructure.” There is no inventory of the unnecessary impervious cover on City-owned lands, or a plan for converting those areas to functional green. Areas along city streets, in and around parking lots, at city buildings, and in city parks all need evaluation and a plan to remediate. The Joint Sustainability Committee recommends that $200,000 be allocated to audit City-owned non-functional or unnecessary impervious cover, including surface-level parking lots, and develop a plan to convert an ambitious percentage of these to functional green uses as soon as practical. 3. No Mow Signage: The City of Austin Climate Equity Plan Natural Systems Goal …
Joint Sustainability Committee RECOMMENDATION 20240228-XXX Subject: Joint Sustainability Committee Budget Recommendations (Sustainable Buildings) Motioned By: Seconded By: Date: February 28, 2024 Recommendation Description of Recommendation to Council 1. Implement a Passiveand Embodied Carbon Reduction House Pilot Program: The Passive House standard (developed by nonprofit Phius)1 is the most rigorous energy efficiency building code, and provides dramatic reductions in energy use. Buildings meeting this standard are significantly more resilient, quieter, have better indoor air quality, and help the grid by reducing peak demand. This standard is now code minimum in many municipalities and is included in 20 states’ affordable housing scoring metrics. Although some affordable housing developments have come close to meeting the Passive House standard, none have met it yet. In addition to reducing energy use in buildings, reducing the embodied carbon in the materials used in construction is also important. Conducting an embodied carbon analysis during the initial design phase of a building gives the developer an opportunity to select more sustainable building materials. A pilot program will provide financial assistance to achieve certification and collect data to demonstrate the value of achieving the Passive House standard and how to reduce embodied carbon in building materials, and should help drive the market toward utilizing 1 https://www.phius.org/certifications/projects/project-certification-overview Passive House more broadly. The Energy Efficiency Programs fee2 that all customers pay as part of their Austin Energy bills is intended to fund energy efficiency programs, such as this. A local Passive House incentive would help affordable housing developers maximize utilization of the Inflation Reduction Act 45L tax credit because projects certifying with Passive House also receive Zero Energy Ready Home certification and get $5,000 per unit in tax credits. The Joint Sustainability Committee recommends that: a. $2 million be allocated from the Energy Efficiency Programs fund for an Affordable Housing Passive House and Embodied Carbon Reduction Pilot Program to provide incentives to income-restricted affordable housing. Affordable housing projects that certify with Phius and conduct an embodied carbon analysis should be eligible for rebates, paid in three milestone payments during design (for hiring a consultant and committing to certification), construction (for precertification), and completion (for final certification). Projects should be required to share construction cost data, both hard and soft, and post-occupancy energy usage data. b. The Austin Energy Green Building department should be allocated 1 additional FTE or temporary position to develop and administer the program, in close consultation with stakeholders. …
JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) MEETING AGENDA FEBRUARY 28th, 2024 REGULAR MEETING of the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 28TH, 2024, at 3:00 P.M. CST CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS RM #1101 301 W. 2ND STREET, AUSTIN, TX 78701 MEETING AGENDA This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, and some members of the Commission may be participating in a 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 at the beginning of the meeting. Remote speakers must register in advance (February 27th by 12pm-Noon CST). To speak or attend remotely, residents must contact the Equity Office’s Community Services Program Coordinator, Alejandra Mireles, no later than 12pm-noon (CST) on Tuesday, February 27th, email alejandra.mireles@austintexas.gov. To register to speak remotely, the required registration information includes 1) the speaker’s name, 2) the item number(s) they wish to speak on, 3) whether they are for/against/neutral, email address, and 4) the telephone number the speaker will be using to participate (it must be the same number that will be used to call into the meeting). telephone 974-8045 and/or Please 2024. (512) call at CURRENT JIC MEMBER COMMISSIONS & REPRESENTATIVES: Member Commission: African American Resource Advisory Commission Asian American Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission Commission for Women Commission on Aging Primary Representative: Alternate Representative: Serita Fontanesi Antonio Ross Sonny Sin Nayer Sikder Julie Glasser Richard Bondi (Vice- Chair) Commission on Immigrant Affairs Melissa Ortega Leonor Vargas Early Childhood Council Amanda Afifi (Chair) Hispanic/Latino Quality-of-Life Resource Advisory Commission Human Rights Commission Morgan Davis Rebecca Austen Teresa Ferguson Jose Caceres Eliza Gordon Ivana Neri Muneeb "Meebs" Aslam LGBTQ+ Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Charles Curry Melissa Taylor Jennifer Powell Lira Ramirez 1 JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) MEETING AGENDA MEETING AGENDA FEBRUARY 28th, 2024 CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the COMMITTEE’s REGULAR MEETING on January 24th, 2024. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Staff Briefing from Austin Transit Partnership on latest developments regarding Austin Light Rail. (Presenters: Lisa Storer, Program Manager, Sustainability and Design, Alvin Livingstone, SVP …
JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) RECOMMENDATION 20240228-004 RESOLUTION ON COMBATING ANTISEMITISM, ISLAMOPHOBIA, AND ANTI-ARAB SENTIMENTS IN THE CITY OF AUSTIN AND CALLS FOR A CEASEFIRE Date: February 28th, 2024 Subject: Joint Endorsement of the Human Rights Commission’s Recommendation 20231106_001 Resolution on Combating Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and Anti-Arab Sentiments in the City of Austin and Calls for a Ceasefire. Motioned by: Commissioner Seconded by: Commissioner WHEREAS, the City of Austin is dedicated to fostering a community that embraces diversity and upholds the principles of equality and human rights; WHEREAS, incidents of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments are on the rise within our city, posing a significant threat to the well-being and safety of our diverse communities; WHEREAS, it is our duty as the Joint Inclusion Committee of the City of Austin to address and combat discrimination, prejudice, and hate in all its forms; WHEREAS, we recognize the importance of creating a community where every resident can live free from fear and discrimination; WHEREAS, we express profound sorrow and condemnation for the tragic loss of Israeli civilians in the attack on October 7th by Hamas, and we vehemently denounce the indiscriminate retaliation by the State of Israel, which has resulted in collective punishment upon the civilian population of Gaza; WHEREAS, we find it deeply troubling that a dehumanization narrative is being used to rationalize criminal acts of war within this ongoing conflict; WHEREAS, it is the solemn responsibility of the Austin City Council to uphold human rights principles and universal values; 1 NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Joint Inclusion Committee of the City of Austin firmly condemns all acts of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments within our city; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Joint Inclusion Committee recommends that the City of Austin through all applicable agencies to: Vigorously combat acts of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments by implementing programs and initiatives aimed at prevention, education, and awareness. Provide support to victims of hate crimes related to antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments by ensuring that resources and assistance are readily available. Collaborate with community organizations to promote understanding, tolerance, and intercultural dialogue among different religious and ethnic communities. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Joint Inclusion Committee recommends that the City of Austin shall facilitate public awareness campaigns to educate our residents about the harmful effects of antisemitism, Islamophobia, anti-Arab, and Anti-Palestine Sentiments and encourage reporting of such incidents. BE IT FURTHER …
JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) RECOMMENDATION 20240228-005 Resolution on Combating Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and Anti-Arab Sentiments in the City of Austin and promoting a peaceful resolution for all. Date: February 28th, 2024 Subject: Joint Endorsement of the Asian American Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission’s 20240116-005 Resolution on Combating Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and Anti-Arab Sentiments in the City of Austin and promoting a peaceful resolution for all. Motioned by: Commissioner RECOMMENDATION: Seconded by: Commissioner In response to the ongoing Gaza Crisis and subsequent rise in hate-related incidents, the Joint Inclusion Committee recommends that City Council directs City staff to execute a coordinated public awareness campaign combating antisemitism, Islamophobia, and Anti-Arab sentiment; for the Austin Police Department to develop a comprehensive coordinated response to victims of violence stemming from rhetoric of the Gaza Crisis; and calls on City Council to express support for an immediate and permanent ceasefire. DESCRIPTION OF RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL: WHEREAS, the City of Austin is dedicated to fostering a community that embraces diversity, racial equity, and upholds the principles of equality and human rights; WHEREAS, the attack on October 7th by Hamas has led to the tragic loss of Israeli civilians and the subsequent indiscriminate retaliation by the State of Israel has led to the continued loss of civilian lives in Gaza; WHEREAS, rhetoric as a result of the global conflict has led to incidents of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments rising within our city, posing a significant threat to the well-being and safety of our diverse communities; WHEREAS, it is our duty as theJoint Inclusion Committee of the City of Austin to address and combat discrimination, prejudice, and hate against Americans, immigrants, and refugees in all its forms in order to foster a community where every resident can live free from fear and discrimination; WHEREAS that the Joint Inclusion Committee of the City of Austin firmly condemns all acts of 1 antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments within our city; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Austin City Council is called upon to direct City staff in executing a coordinated public awareness campaign that combats acts of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments by implementing programs and initiatives aimed at prevention, education, and awareness; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Austin Police Department coordinate with relevant community organizations and direct service agencies to develop a comprehensive coordinated response of enhanced and culturally appropriate victim’s services for those who experienced violence related to the rhetoric …
JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) RECOMMENDATION 20240228-006 Transparent Hiring in Executive Leadership Date: February 28th, 2024 Subject: Joint Endorsement of the Asian American Quality-of-Life Recommendation 20240220-007 Transparent Hiring in Executive Leadership Motioned by: Commissioner Seconded by: Commissioner RECOMMENDATION: The Joint Inclusion Committee 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 WHEREAS, a transparent and inclusive hiring process fosters public trust, attracts qualified 1 candidates from diverse backgrounds, and ensures a deliberate selection of the best individual for the job; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE: 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 scheduled executive staffing and leadership updates including discussion …
