2026 Proposed URB Meeting Schedule S M January T T W 1 8 15 S 3 10 5 4 12 17 11 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 F 2 9 16 6 13 7 14 February S F T T W S M 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 12 11 10 14 13 9 8 15 19 20 21 18 17 16 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 March S F T T W S M 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 12 14 13 11 10 9 8 15 19 20 21 18 17 16 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 April May June S M S T W 4 1 11 8 5 18 15 12 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 F 3 10 17 T 2 9 16 6 13 7 14 July S M S T W 4 1 11 8 5 12 18 15 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 F 3 10 17 T 2 9 16 6 13 7 14 T S M T W F 1 8 15 S 2 9 7 5 3 16 14 12 10 17 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 4 11 18 6 13 August T T W F S M S 1 8 5 2 15 9 12 16 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 3 10 17 4 11 18 6 13 7 14 S M 1 8 15 S F T W 6 5 3 2 12 13 10 9 7 19 20 17 16 14 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 T 4 11 18 September S M S T W 5 2 1 12 9 8 6 13 19 16 15 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 T 3 10 17 F 4 11 18 7 14 S M October T T W 1 8 15 S 3 10 5 4 17 12 11 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 F 2 9 16 6 13 7 14 November S F T T W S M 7 6 5 …
LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, DATE, 2025 The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a special called meeting on Monday, March 17, 2025, at 6:30 PM at Austin City Hall, 301 W 2nd St., Austin, Texas 78701, Boards & Commissions Room 1101. Commissioners in attendance in person: KC Coyne (Chair) Kitty McLeod (Vice Chair) Brigitte Bandit Jerry Joe Benson Garry Brown Asher Knutson Mariana Krueger Steven Rivas Commissioners in attendance remotely: Morgan Davis Taylor Treviño Rocío Fierro-Pérez Chair Coyne called the meeting to order at 6:33 pm. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Muna Hussaini – Hate Crimes Task Force Katie Lorenz – COA “Fertility Benefit” APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission's regular meeting of August 18, 2025. The minutes were approved on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Commissioner Brown’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioners Andersen and Neal were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion regarding the City’s Fertility Assistance Program and In vitro fertilization benefit gaps. Presentation by Selena Xie. The presentation was made by Selena Xie. 3. Update on LGBTQIA+-related bills in the special session of the Texas state legislature. Presentation by Miriam Laeky, Government Affairs Director, Equality Texas. The presentation was made by Miriam Laeky, Government Affairs Director, Equality Texas. Page 1 of 4 4. Discussion regarding the state of transgender rights in Texas and how the commission can respond in Austin. Discussed. 5. Discussion regarding a potential survey to engage the community about areas of concern regarding the pillars included in the commission’s 2024-2025 annual report. Discussed. 6. Discussion regarding the results of Austin Pride 2025. Discussed. 7. Discussion on the formulation of budget recommendations for the FY2026-27 budget. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 8. Approve the formation of a working group to formulate budget recommendations for the City of Austin FY2026- 27 Budget. The motion to approve the formation of a working group to formulate budget recommendations for the City of Austin FY2026-27 Budget was approved on Commissioner Brown’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioners Andersen and Neal were absent. Members: Benson (Chair), McLeod, Brown, Rivas, Coyne 9. Approve changes to commission working group membership. Discussed. No action was taken. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 10. Update from the Community Safety Working Group regarding planning for the upcoming Community Safety Town Hall and outreach assignments. Update by Commissioner Benson FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Recommendation …
RECOMMENDATION NO. [Assigned by City Clerk] A RECOMMENDATION REQUESTING CITY COUNCIL TO DIRECT THE CITY MANAGER TO REVIEW THE CITY’S IN-VITRO-FERTILIZATION (IVF) COVERAGE, AUDIT UTILIZATION AND IMPACTS, AND RETROACTIVELY REIMBURSE IMPACTED CITY EMPLOYEES AND THEIR FAMILIES IN ALIGNMENT WITH THE 2022 COUNCIL RESOLUTION, WITH SPECIFIC ATTENTION TO EQUITABLE ACCESS FOR LGBTQ/SAME-SEX COUPLES. WHEREAS, in September 2022, the Austin City Council passed a resolution directing staff to provide inclusive fertility and family-building benefits for City employees, including those in same-sex and other LGBTQ+ families; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin is a self-insured employer and therefore has the authority to design and administer benefits beyond those offered through Blue Cross Blue Shield, as demonstrated by additional programs being implemented effective January 2026; and WHEREAS, City staff implemented only the vendor’s “medical infertility” program, which failed to meet Council’s stated intent, leaving a multi-year gap in access for LGBTQ+ families; and WHEREAS, employees and their families reasonably relied on the Council’s 2022 directive when making financial and personal decisions about IVF and family planning, and the City’s failure to fully implement those benefits caused financial and emotional harm; WHEREAS, the LGBTQ Quality of Life Commission has heard directly from City employees who have been directly affected by this gap and who have incurred significant personal financial burden because of this oversight; and WHEREAS, inclusive reproductive healthcare access is essential to the health, safety, and well- being of LGBTQIA+ employees, and equitable benefits align with the City’s values of fairness, transparency, and inclusion; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT: The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends that the City Council direct the City Manager and the Human Resources Department to audit potential gaps in coverage and their impacts, including all IVF and fertility benefit inquiries and expenses incurred by City employees between October 2022 and January 2026 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The Commission recommends that the City Council require the Human Resources/Benefits Committee to provide annual public reports on the implementation, utilization, and accessibility of LGBTQIA+ family-building benefits to ensure accountability and transparency. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The Commission recommends that the City Council direct the City Manager to establish a reimbursement mechanism for qualifying out-of-pocket expenses incurred by families who should have had insurance coverage; and recommends City Council allocate emergency interim funding to cover employees who incurred IVF-related expenses during the coverage gap, ensuring LGBTQ+ families are not …
RECOMMENDATION NO. [Assigned by City Clerk] A RECOMMENDATION REQUESTING CITY COUNCIL TO ISSUE AN ANNUAL PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING NOVEMBER 20th, 2025 AS TRANSGENDER DAY OF REMEMBRANCE AND DIRECT THE CITY MANAGER TO COORDINATE CITY PARTICIPATION AND PUBLIC AWARENESS EFFORTS. WHEREAS, the Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR), observed annually on November 20, honors the memory of transgender and gender-diverse people whose lives have been lost to acts of anti- transgender violence; WHEREAS, TDOR was founded in 1999 by advocate Gwendolyn Ann Smith as a vigil to memorialize Rita Hester, and has since grown into an internationally recognized observance affirming the dignity, resilience, and humanity of transgender communities; WHEREAS, the City of Austin is committed to advancing equity, inclusion, and safety for transgender, nonbinary, and gender-expansive residents and employees through its policies, programs, and partnerships; WHEREAS, formal recognition of TDOR through a City of Austin proclamation and coordinated City participation would reaffirm the City’s values of respect, justice, and belonging, while providing visible support for a community that continues to experience disproportionate levels of violence, discrimination, and erasure; and, WHEREAS, many U.S. cities—including Dallas, San Antonio, Denver, and Portland—have adopted formal proclamations and partnerships for TDOR to demonstrate solidarity and public commitment to trans equity and safety; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT: The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends that the City Council issue an annual proclamation recognizing November 20th, 2025 as Transgender Day of Remembrance in the City of Austin, beginning in 2025 and continuing annually thereafter. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The Commission recommends that City Council direct the City Manager to direct appropriate City departments—including the Equity Office, Human Resources Department, and Communications and Public Information Office—to coordinate City participation, including public acknowledgment, employee education, and community engagement efforts aligned with local TDOR observances. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The Commission recommends that City Council direct City staff to collaborate with local transgender- led organizations in planning and promoting annual TDOR observances to ensure authenticity, safety, and community representation. Sponsored by: [Commissioner Name(s)] Date Approved by Commission: [Insert Date]
RECOMMENDATION NO. [Assigned by City Clerk] A RECOMMENDATION REQUESTING CITY COUNCIL TO DIRECT THE CITY MANAGER TO REVIEW THE CITY’S RELATIONSHIP WITH AUSTIN PRIDE, EXPLORE CROSS-CITY BENCHMARKING OF PRIDE FESTIVALS, AND IDENTIFY OPTIONS FOR CITY-SUPPORTED PRIDE CELEBRATIONS AT DIFFERENT TIMES OF YEAR TO BETTER REFLECT THE AUSTIN LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY’S NEEDS. WHEREAS, the City of Austin recognizes the importance of Pride celebrations in affirming the visibility, safety, and belonging of LGBTQIA+ residents, employees, and visitors; WHEREAS, the Austin Pride festival has historically served as the city’s flagship celebration of LGBTQIA+ communities, but the current organizational structure, funding relationship, and scheduling approach have raised questions about inclusivity, transparency, and alignment with City values; WHEREAS, many major U.S. cities directly fund, coordinate, or partner with local Pride events through structured agreements, city-led committees, or grants that ensure accountability, equity, and representation across LGBTQIA+ subcommunities; WHEREAS, Austin’s Pride celebration is typically held in August, which presents accessibility and safety challenges due to extreme heat, and diverges from the June national observance of Pride Month, limiting coordination with regional and national advocacy efforts; WHEREAS, local community groups and LGBTQ+ leaders have expressed interest in expanding Austin’s Pride-related programming, including trans visibility events, queer arts and culture showcases, and inclusive family-oriented celebrations that reflect the full spectrum of Austin’s unique LGBTQIA+ community; and, WHEREAS, reviewing Austin’s current approach and benchmarking against peer cities could help identify best practices for equitable city partnerships, funding models, and scheduling that better support community needs; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT: The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends that the City Council direct the City Manager to review the City’s current relationship with Austin Pride, including potential funding mechanisms, contracts, city services support, and coordination across departments (including Economic Development, Equity Office, and Visit Austin). BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The Commission recommends that the City Council direct staff to conduct a benchmarking analysis of Pride festivals in comparable cities—such as Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, Atlanta, Washington D.C., Denver, and Portland—to assess governance structures, timing, city support models, and community engagement practices. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The Commission recommends that the City Council direct staff to explore and evaluate options for hosting or supporting additional City-recognized Pride celebrations at other times of year, including events aligned with national LGBTQ+ observances such as Pride Month (June), Trans Day of Visibility (March), or LGBTQ History Month (October). BE IT FURTHER …
Our Vision: Everyone has access to stable housing and the support they need to thrive. HSO Strategic Pillars System Leadership We are a trusted system leader, working collaboratively to ensure an efficient, accessible, and effective homeless response. Impactful Community Investments We make investments that resolve individual experiences of homelessness and result in meaningful system change. Crisis Response System Management We ensure that people experiencing homelessness have easy access to basic needs, outreach, crisis shelter, and other services to support survival and pathways to stable housing. Communications Through public dialogue and intentional communication with stakeholders, we strengthen community trust, align efforts and drive systemwide impact. Investing in our People We pursue a culture of continuous learning, creating a collaborative, supportive, and engaging workplace that centers growth, development, and well-being. Our staff are inspired and empowered to drive meaningful change. We’re building the capacity to serve more households and reduce unsheltered homelessness. We’re getting upstream with prevention and early intervention, serving more Austinites more quickly. Example Housing Situations • People facing eviction • People with low incomes who are severely rent burdened • People experiencing partner or family violence • People who are doubled up or living in other unstable housing situations HSO Investments in Early Intervention • Digital navigation and resource hotline • Prevention programs for households/youth • Diversion resources for quick resolution of new homelessness • Leverage brick-and-mortar facilities such as shelters and navigation centers to provide rapid exit funds. Help Households Exit Homelessness & Then Promote Stability Stabilize Divert Quickly Resolve Crisis When Not Prevented Prevent Problem Solve Before Crisis Happens $34,000-$40,000 Average cost of RRH or PSH services and subsidy per client per year. $2,040 Average one-time cost per early intervention per client. Spotlight: Digital Innovations PEH Text Alert System • Launched in 2023 to enhance emergency notifications. • Reaches more than 5,000 subscribers. Navigation Hotline • Staffed 60 hours per week. • Immediate screening for early intervention eligibility. • Live referrals to appropriate resources. • 1/3 of callers are families with children. Service Pods • Deployed at high traffic social and health service locations, like navigation centers and emergency rooms. • Video conferencing and tele-health capabilities. • Clients can complete or update a housing assessment. • Reduces need to visit brick-and-mortar locations. Online Resource Finder • Launched austintexas.gov/opennow in 2025. • Provides interactive, up-to-date information on the availability and locations of resources. We’re learning from our successes …
A RECOMMENDATION REQUESTING CITY COUNCIL TO DIRECT THE CITY MANAGER TO DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT A COMPREHENSIVE RESTROOM ACCESS POLICY FOR CITY-OWNED AND CITY-LEASED FACILITIES THAT ENSURES SAFETY, DIGNITY, PRIVACY, AND RESPECT FOR ALL INDIVIDUALS WHILE COMPLYING WITH STATE LAW; TO EXPAND SINGLE-STALL ALL-GENDER RESTROOMS WITH CLEAR SIGNAGE; TO REQUIRE INCLUSIVE DESIGN IN NEW CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATIONS; TO MANDATE STAFF TRAINING ON INCLUSIVITY AND DE-ESCALATION; TO PROHIBIT HARASSMENT AND INVASIVE ENFORCEMENT PRACTICES; AND TO ESTABLISH COORDINATED IMPLEMENTATION, REPORTING, AND ACCOUNTABILITY MEASURES. ⸻ WHEREAS, Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 8 (SB 8), also known as the "Texas Women's Privacy Act," into law on September 22, 2025. The law restricts bathroom usage in government-owned buildings and public schools based on sex assigned at birth and is scheduled to take effect on December 4, 2025, applying to all state agencies, public universities, local governments, and public educational institutions, including K-12 schools; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin is committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and safe environment for all residents, workers, and visitors, including transgender, gender non- conforming, nonbinary, and Two-Spirit individuals, building on existing non-discrimination policies enforced by the Office of Equity & Inclusion (OEI); and WHEREAS, guidance from leading civil-rights organizations emphasizes the importance of affirming all-gender restrooms, clear and inclusive signage, staff training, and departmental accountability to ensure safety, dignity, and compliance with applicable laws; and ⸻ NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT: The LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends that the City Council direct the City Manager to develop and implement a comprehensive restroom access policy for city- owned and city-leased facilities that ensures privacy, safety, dignity, and respect for all individuals while complying with state law. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends that City Council require the policy, at minimum: (1) the expansion of single-stall, all-gender restrooms with clear, inclusive signage that avoids gendered labels and promotes universal access; (2) that all new construction, renovations, updates, and City-owned or City-leased facilities shall provide single-stall, all-gender restrooms as a standard design feature for harm reduction, privacy, and safety, consistent with applicable building codes; (3) mandatory staff training on inclusivity, de-escalation, and respectful engagement; and (4) a prohibition on harassment and any invasive or discriminatory enforcement practices, including attempted verification of a person's anatomy, gender, or gender identity. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends that …
2026 Proposed South Central Waterfront Advisory Board (SCWAB) Meeting Schedule Room 1405 ( Need ATXN/CTM Support) Meetings Occur on the 3rd Monday of the month 1. January 20, 2026 (Tuesday) 2. February 17, 2026 (Tuesday) 3. March 16, 2026 4. April 20, 2026 5. May 18, 2026 6. June 15, 2026 7. July 20, 2026 8. August 17, 2026 9. September 21, 2026 10. October 19, 2026 11. November 6, 2026 12. December 21, 2026 *Dates in Red Denote a Tuesday Meeting Date due to City Holiday
SOUTH-CENTRAL WATERFRONT ADVISORY BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, MARCH 17, 2025 AT 6:00PM The South Central Waterfront Advisory Board convened the Regular Meeting at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Austin, TX 78752 in a hybrid format. BOARD MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE: Jim Stephenson, Chair David Sullivan, Board Member Manar Hasan, Ex Officio (Transportation) BOARD MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY: Felicity Maxwell, Vice Chair Julia Woods, Board Member Ryan Puzycki, Board Member CALL TO ORDER 6:03p PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board (SCWAB) Regular Meeting on October 21, 2024 a. The motion to approve the minutes was made by Vice Chair F. Maxwell and seconded by Board Member D. Sullivan, passed with a vote of 5-0. Board Members S. Bazan and I. Cohen were absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION 2. Discussion and action to provide recommendations to Council for Community Benefits as it relates to Planned Unit Developments (PUDs). a. No action taken 3. Discussion and action on FY2025-26 Budget Recommendations a. No action taken FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Affordable Housing Trust Fund & Site Development Group ADJOURNMENT 6:36p
Electric Utility Commission 2026 Meeting Schedule The Electric Utility Commission meets monthly on the second Monday of the month, unless otherwise determined by the Commission. If the regular meeting day conflicts with a holiday, the meeting will be held on the following Monday. Meetings are held at 6:00 p.m. in the Shudde Fath Conference Room at Austin Energy Corporate Headquarters, 4815 Mueller Blvd., Austin, TX. Changes to the above regarding date, time or location will be noted on meeting agendas. Meeting Dates January 12, 2026 February 9, 2026 March 9, 2026 April 13, 2026 May 11, 2026 June 8, 2026 July 20, 2026 August 10, 2026 September 14, 2026 October 19, 2026 November 9, 2026 Cancelled Dates July 13, 2026* October 12, 2026*** December 14, 2026** Agenda Item Submittal Date December 29, 2025 January 26, 2026 February 23, 2026 March 30, 2026 April 27, 2026 May 22, 2026 July 6, 2026 July 27, 2026 August 31, 2026 October 5, 2026 October 26, 2026 *Post budget presentation to Council ***Move due to Columbus and Indigenous Peoples’ Day **EUC does not meet in December Item 9 v3
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20251020-009: Crosswalk Response WHEREAS, decorative and colored pedestrian crosswalks — including rainbow-themed crosswalks — have been documented to improve pedestrian safety outcomes in some jurisdictions: for example, a study of 17 intersections (including 7 in Florida) found a reduction in crash rates after installation of street-art crossings. WHEREAS, removal of rainbow crosswalks sends a signal of reduced support and visibility for LGBTQ+ residents and visitors, which will undermine the City’s stated equity, inclusion, and belonging goals. Photographic and journalistic commentary note that rainbow crosswalks “provide a sense of safety and belonging for LGBTQ+ individuals, offering a visible reminder that they are valued members of society.” WHEREAS, consideration of removal has already eroded community trust and removing rainbow crosswalks will generate adverse community reaction and further undermine trust between the City and segments of the public who view such crosswalks as an important form of public expression and inclusive design. WHEREAS, state level direction for removal is clear politicization and intentional attack on the LGBTQ+ community due to backlash from the repainting of the Houston-based Montrose Neighborhood rainbow crosswalks. WHEREAS, the City of Austin has a strong interest in supporting safe, walkable, and inclusive streetscapes; retaining rainbow crosswalks aligns with these objectives by combining pedestrian infrastructure with inclusive urban design. WHEREAS, there is no conclusive evidence that rainbow crosswalks degrade safety compared to standard crosswalks; in fact, some research indicates the opposite (reduced crash rates) — thus removal on the basis of safety concerns alone may not be justified without more context-specific study. WHEREAS, the cost of repainting or maintaining decorative crosswalks is typically modest compared to the broader investment in pedestrian infrastructure, and removal will eliminate an asset that supports civic branding, tourism appeal, and community morale. WHEREAS, the “TEXAS” mural on the drag in addition to other painted crosswalks should also be considered for removal if there is a genuine and research-based safety concern due to their presence. . WHEREAS, the removal of rainbow crosswalks and “Black Artists Matter” street paint go against numerous City approved documents including Imagine Austin, The Austin City Charter, Downtown Austin Plan, and Cultural District Framework Plan. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the LGBTQ QoL Advisory Commission recommend the City Council exhaust every possible action to avoid removing crosswalks including but not limited to applying for exemptions and exploring requesting a …
ELECTRIC UTILITY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20251020-013 October 20, 2025 Subject: Recommendation Allowing Austin Energy to Retain Current Logo Motioned By: Commissioner Joshua Rhodes Seconded By: Commissioner Al Braden Recommendation The Electric Utility Commission recommends to the City Council that Austin Energy be allowed to retain their current logo. Rationale: • The current Austin Energy logo has been in use for almost 30 years and incorporates design elements that had been in use in the various City of Austin Electric Utility Department logos for decades prior to the adoption of the current logo. • Austin Energy has attained well-deserved national name recognition, and its logo is widely recognized throughout the electric utility industry. Additionally, the logo is proudly worn by current and former AE employees. • Transitioning to the proposed new logo, even over an extended period of time, will be a costly effort. Given the current financial challenges facing AE and the City as a whole, retaining the current logo seems to be the more prudent use and stewardship of the AE ratepayers’ money. Vote: 7-0-1 For: Chair Dave Tuttle; Commissioner Raul Alvarez; Commissioner Cesar Benavides; Commissioner Al Braden; Commissioner Chris Gillett; Commissioner Cyrus Reed; Commissioner Joshua Rhodes. Against: None Abstentions: Vice Chair Kaiba White Absent: Commissioner Lauren Bellomy and Commissioner Jonathon Blackburn Off the dais: Commissioner Chris Kirksey Attest: Nici Huff Nici Huff, Staff Liaison 1 of 1
KEEP AUSTIN OURS! 2026 City of Austin Bond Proposal THINK BIG & COLLABORATIVE Rally Austin is the first multi-purpose local government corporation, requested by the community and created by the Austin City Council in October 2020 ▪ Community driven, Equity focused ▪ Designed to be agile, mission-driven, collaborative and flexible ▪ Bring new financial tools and resources to the table and generate consistent revenues ▪ Professional approach to community investment and project delivery 2 MISSION Facilitating equitable development for economic growth while preserving Austin's unique culture. VISION A culturally resilient and economically integrated Austin where diverse communities thrive without risk of displacement. Leading investments in our community, as a community Rally will focus its efforts to unite and drive progress across three critical areas of development in Central Texas: ARTS, MUSIC & CULTURE COMPLETE COMMUNITIES CATALYTIC DEVELOPMENT 3 OUR COMMUNITY AT WORK Board of Directors Collaboration of community leaders and nominating bodies who represent local organizations and asset holders. WHO WE ARE 4 ACTIVE COMMUNITY INVESTMENTS Real estate projects valued at approximately $160M, securing an estimated 293,000 square feet of affordable space: ▪ 180,000 SF Affordable housing ▪ 86,000 SF Cultural spaces ▪ 14,000 SF Commercial spaces ▪ 13,000 SF Outdoor and shared spaces Collective economic impact projected between $320 to $400M, also providing community benefits: ▪ Job creation and tax revenues ▪ Property value increases ▪ Tourism and cultural preservation ▪ Soul and vitality OUR RALLY FOR COMPLETE COMMUNITIES OUR RALLY FOR ARTS, MUSIC & CULTURE OUR RALLY FOR CATALYTIC DEVELOPMENT Mixed-use development Seven real estate Rally moves large-scale, for Blocks 16 & 18 on development projects multi-million-dollar East 11th Street in the valued at $37.5M with an development and African American estimated $75M-$94M infrastructure projects Cultural Heritage District, return on investment. and serves as a flexible building thriving small This area of focus has bridge between public, businesses, cultural led to the successful private, and community anchors and affordable negotiation of a new 20- interests to unlock housing. With a current year lease for historic diverse funding sources project value estimated music venue The Hole in and deliver value and at $128M, and an the Wall and several benefits for all partners. estimated impact of other arts and culture $256-320M. venues. 5 RALLY AUSTIN PROPOSED 2026 COMMUNITY INVESTMENT BOND ▪ Overview of Process ▪ Problem Statement ▪ Proposed Solutions ▪ Rally’s Approach ▪ Invest in Our Identity: Keep …
OVERVIEW OVERVIEW OCT 2025 OCT 2025 WELCOME WE’RE hERE TO buIld an InClusIVE, TRauma InfORmEd PROGRam ThaT suPPORTs bOTh aRTIsTs and OuR unhOusEd nEIGhbORs. PG 2 raasininthesun.orgART FOR ALL 2025-2026 “ Our Mission We transform spaces into places of belonging—through art, culture, and community. RaasIn mCInTOsh fOundER raasininthesun.orgart For aLL 2025-2026 OuR TEam RaasIn mCInTOsh fOundER | CEO mIKE KIm COO TIffany KOWalsKI dIRECTOR, PROJECT manaGEmEnT ChRIs TObaR hEad Of dEsIGn, bRand COdI COPyWRITTER naI’lah bEll WayfIndInG aRChITECT JEnnIfER WEb dEV PG 4 raasininthesun.orgART FOR ALL 2025-2026 Our VISION We envision a city where every space reflects the spirit of its people—vibrant, inclusive, and alive with creativity. raasininthesun.orgart For aLL 2025-2026 Art for All To cultivate safe, respectful, and creative spaces that engage unhoused participants while uplifting our community through art. PG 6 raasininthesun.orgART FOR ALL 2025-2026 Project Vision Art for All envisions murals and creative spaces that go beyond beautif ication—cultivating connection, reducing stigma, and building trust across Austin’s diverse communities. PG 7 raasininthesun.orgART FOR ALL 2025-2026 OUR PARTNERS PG 8 raasininthesun.orgART FOR ALL 2025-2026 fuTuRE muRals WIll bE lOCaTEd hERE! ausTIn CEnTRal lIbRaRy, ausTIn PublIC lIbRaRy PG 9 raasininthesun.orgART FOR ALL 2025-2026 Central Library Garage Transforming the Central Library parking garage into a series of storytelling murals that reflect Austin’s community values. PG 10 raasininthesun.orgART FOR ALL 2025-2026 How It Works • CREaTE PublIC aRT: Participants experiencing housing or economic insecurity collaborate with local artists on mural installations. • EaRn samE day Pay: Up to $250 for 6–8 hours of creative work, exceeding Austin’s living wage. • aCCEss suPPORT sERVICEs: Peer Specialists connect participants to resources such as housing, food, behavioral health, and employment. • OnGOInG lOTTERy sysTEm: 20–30+ work slots per program day. *Dates and details are subject to change due to APL schedules. PG 11 raasininthesun.orgART FOR ALL 2025-2026 Juice Consulting PR TEam Founded in 2007 by Heather Wagner Reed, former Senior Product Manager for Beyoncé, Juice Consulting is an award-winning PR and marketing agency known for bringing “f resh-squeezed vitality” to every campaign. Based in Austin, Juice specializes in arts, culture, and creative industries—crafting buzzworthy strategies, press outreach, and branding that position partners as the talk of the town. hEaThER WaGnER REEd PG 12 raasininthesun.orgART FOR ALL 2025-2026 Key Dates & Timeline PG 13 raasininthesun.orgART FOR ALL 2025-2026 Key Dates & Timeline We Will provide Bi - Weekly/ Monthly Updates via Email/Text. sEPT 2025 Kickoff …
Hotel Occupancy Tax Update Arts Commission | October 20, 2025 Hotel Occupancy Tax – September 2025 Approved Budget Amended Budget September w/ Encumb H/MOT Penalties & Interest $584,562 $584,562 Hotel/Motel Occupancy Tax $169,317,023 $169,317,023 Total Revenue $169,901,585 $169,901,585 Transfer to Cultural Arts Fund $16,217,879 $16,217,879 $53,846 $978,315 $1,032,161 $98,571 Year-to-date w/Encumb $520,879 $161,058,087 $161,578,966 $15,430,791 • Total HOT Collections September 2025 = $978,315 • 95% of FY25 Approved Budget of $169,901,585 • Cultural Arts Fund September 2025 = $98,571 Hotel Occupancy Tax Collections – Significant Contributing Events • Austin City Limits Hall of Fame – August 1 • Central Texas Flood benefits o Resound x Mohawk – August 2 o Lyle Lovett at Heart of Texas Flood Benefit – August 12 o Band Together Texas – August 17 • Blues on the Green – August 5-6 • Zilker Summer Musical – July 11-August 16 • Abbey Lights Up COTA Gala – August 16 • PBR Gambler Days – August 22-24 • Austin Pride Parade – August 23 AUS Passenger Totals: 1,772,810 (August 2025) HOT Cultural Arts Fund – FY25 CULTURAL ARTS FUND FY 25 January February March April May June July August September October November December $4,500,000 $4,000,000 $3,500,000 $3,000,000 $2,500,000 $2,000,000 $1,500,000 $1,000,000 $500,000 $0 December $60,961 November $559,306 October $2,437,899 March $169,486 February $1,108,764 June $57,730 May $1,234,509 January $2,834,689 April $2,858,334 Q1 Q2 Q3 $98,571 August $3,934,592 July $79,750 Q4 HOT Collections (FY22 – FY25) Questions? Learn More: www.austintexas.gov/acme/grants-funding
Cultural Arts Funding Update Arts Commission | October 20, 2025 Agenda 1. Contracts & Payments 2. Grant Funded Activities Contracts & Payments Contracts & Payments (as of 10/20/25) FY23 Elevate FY24 Elevate FY24 Nexus (Spring/ Summer) FY25-26 Thrive (Year 1) FY25-26 Thrive (Year 2) Total Contracts Signed & Processed Contracts Test payments issued & verified Payment 1 Issued Payment 2 Issued Payment 3 Issued 199 199 (100%) 199 (100%) 199 (100%) 199 (100%) 195 (98%) 230 229 (99%) 229 (99%) 229 (99%) 217 (94%) 65 (28%) 51 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 50 (98%) n/a Total Dist. to date $6,221,000 (99%) $8,445,250 (91%) Total Allocation $6,250,000 $9,265,000 $245,000 (96%) $255,000 35 34 (97%) 34 (97%) 34 (97%) 32 (91%) 1 (3%) $3,318,500 (86%) See year 1 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A (N/A) $3,850,000 $3,850,000 *Each grant has a different reporting deadline. Final Payments are issued upon successful close out of Final Report. Grant Funded Activities FY 24-25 Cultural Funding Grantee Activities Esplendor y Cultura de Panama November 1 Folklore y Ritmos de Panama (MSA) – Wyndham Garden Fuego Friday – Weekly Afro-Latin Social Dance Series Every Friday through December 26 Austin Latin Dance Cultural Heritage Project (District 1) – Corazon Latino Dance Studio Groundwork Music Project at Hive Austin 4th Saturday of the month through December 27 Groundwork Music Project (District 2) – Hive Austin Urban Echo Writers Workshop Every Monday and Wednesday through December 31 Urban Echo (District 1) – Austin Central Library Questions? Learn More: www.austintexas.gov/acme/grants-funding
Funding Programs Update Arts Commission | October 20, 2025 The Creative Reset: Phase I Funding Program Guidelines • Clearer definitions • Clearer criteria • Simplified processes • More accessible resources across all programs Learn more: austintexas.gov/acme/grants-funding English Guidelines | Spanish Guidelines Program Launch Memo to Mayor and Council (Creative Reset, Funding Guidelines, Application opening)– October 8th Formal Launch of Information via website and direct communication Application Process thelongcenter.submittable.com/submit Intake Form Eligibility Form Application Form Key Dates • October 14: Intake and Eligibility Verification Forms (10am) • October 21: Application Opens (10am) • December 4: Application Intake Form Deadline (6:59pm) Application Timeline Planned Launch Calendar 2025 October 21st Austin Live Music Fund Creative Space Assistance Program Elevate Heritage Preservation Grant 2026 March Nexus 2027 March Nexus July Austin Live Music Fund Elevate Heritage Preservation Grant Thrive July Austin Live Music Fund Creative Space Assistance Program Elevate Heritage Preservation Grant September Nexus September Nexus Application Assistance Workshops (recordings posted on website after event) • Virtual • October 21st at 6pm; November 5th at 6pm; November 17th at 11am • In-Person • October 22nd at 11am (Pleasant Hill Branch Library; 211 E William Cannon Dr, Austin, TX 78745) • October 23rd at 6pm (5202 East Ben White Boulevard, Ste 400, Austin, TX 78741) Open Office Hours • Every Tuesday, 10-Noon (virtual) • Special sessions 10am – 4pm (virtual and in-Person): December 4th, 9th, 11th 1:1 Meetings via Booking Link The Long Center: Email ApplicationHelp@thelongcenter.org; (512) 457-5161 (M-F, 9-11am) Community Events (Nov 1: MACC Dia de Los Muertos; Nov 7: AARC Fall Exhibit Reception; etc) Language Access Available Resources Languages Available Contact Us Technical Application Support ENG and SPN, others upon request Editable Application Forms English, Spanish, Chinese (simple), Vietnamese, and Korean, others upon request ApplicationHelp@TheLongCenter.org or 512-457-5161 www.CreateAustin.org/resources Workshop Recordings ENG and SPN, others upon request bit.ly/AACMEYouTube Language assistance Other than ENG and SPN Call 3-1-1 Austin’s Creative Community Resources ENG and SPN, others upon request www.CreateAustin.org/resources ASL Interpretation American Sign Language TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711 Questions? Learn More: www.austintexas.gov/acme/grants-funding
