ARTS COMMISSION: CANDIDATES FOR BOARD NOMINATION Kathryn (Kate) Meehan Kate Meehan offers a distinctive combination of arts leadership, strategic operations, and community-centered development experience. With a master’s degree in Theatre History and Criticism from Texas State University and a career that bridges the arts, design, and business strategy, Kate has built a reputation as an innovative and systems-minded leader. As Partner and Director of Operations at Rhode Partners Inc., she has led including overhauling human resources processes, refining client engagement systems, and driving organizational transformation efforts, marketing and business development initiatives. Her experience demonstrates a rare ability to merge creativity and efficiency, qualities that have tangible impact on both team culture and the broader Austin arts ecosystem. In her submission, Kate’s voice reflects deep curiosity, optimism, and a clear commitment to community building. She describes herself as a relentless community builder and process nerd, highlighting a belief that thoughtful systems and inclusive collaboration are the foundation of sustainable cultural and economic growth. Her work with arts-related organizations such as the Writers’ League of Texas and her leadership within architecture and design firms illustrate her understanding of the intersections between the arts, real estate, and community development. Kate’s enthusiasm to serve on the Rally Austin Board shines through her recognition that the arts play a vital role in shaping Austin’s evolving urban identity, bridging creative expression with civic and economic vitality. Sara Vanderbeek Sara Vanderbeek brings more than two decades of experience as an artist, curator, and arts advocate whose work has profoundly shaped Austin’s creative landscape. As the Founding Executive Director and Curator of DORF, she has cultivated a dynamic, community-driven platform for emerging and established artists, recognized by The Austin Chronicle as the Best New Experimental Gallery in 2018. Sara’s work extends beyond curation into civic engagement and public art leadership, and she has served as an independent curator for the Texas Municipal Retirement System, Zilker Point, and the University Health public art collections. Her experience spans major arts institutions including Christie’s Auction House, the McNay Art Museum, and The Contemporary Austin, underscoring her deep understanding of the art world’s institutional and market dimensions. Sara’s submission emphasizes her belief in the power of creative collaboration and her commitment to equitable cultural and economic development. She currently serves as a consultant for the City of Austin’s Urban Core Land Use Working Group, where she brings an artist’s perspective to conversations …
Art in Public Places New Panelist Recommendations October 2025 Camille Jobe – Architect Art in Public Places – New Panelist Recommendations Camille Jobe – Architect [Camille Jobe] brings a wealth of experience and knowledge as an architect and working in Austin. She will fill a gap in the technical design evaluation of projects that is currently missing on the panel. - Heidi Schmalbach, Arts Commission Liaison to Art in Public Places Panel Excellent and broad experience as an architect and in community engagement; a "big picture thinker" to use her words; able to be strategic in the real work. - Acia Gray, Arts Commission Vice Chair When I review the criteria for a top score, Camille clearly demonstrates mastery of the required competencies. She would serve as a role model, inspiring and training others through both her breadth of experience and her impressive record of service. In addition, she brings highly valued technical expertise that would be an asset to the panel. - Kristi-Anne Shaer, Art in Public Places Panel Chair Camille's impressive career as an Architect and years of leadership in our community will be helpful in executing the responsibilities of the AIPP Panel. Her experience with complex public projects will be a valuable contribution to this program and its Artists. - Andrew Danziger, Art in Public Places Vice Panel Chair Art in Public Places – New Panelist Recommendations Lindsey Millikan – Artist Art in Public Places – New Panelist Recommendations Lindsey Millikan – Artist While all the candidates we interviewed for the visual arts seat were excellent, Lindsey stood out to me for the way she talked about belonging and public art and because she has had the experience of being an AIPP artist. This perspective will be extremely valuable to the makeup of the panel. - Heidi Schmalbach, Arts Commission Liaison to Art in Public Places Panel Experience within the AIPP process as an artist as well as community knowledge of Austin will be a good voice for the panel. - Acia Gray, Arts Commission Vice Chair As a public artist herself, Lindsey has deep expertise in the process of public art making. Her perspective on the function of public art, as well as her vision for the possibilities within Austin’s public art program, were both thoughtful and refreshing. - Kristi-Anne Shaer, Art in Public Places Panel Chair Lindsey's technical knowledge with painting murals will be a …
2026 Draft Meeting Schedule Arts Commission The montly meeting schedule is as follows: MEETING DATES Monday, January 26, 2026 Monday, February 23, 2026 Monday, March 23, 2026 Monday, April 20, 2026 Monday, May 18, 2026 Monday, June 15, 2026 Monday, July 20, 2026 Monday, August 17, 2026 Monday, September 21, 2026 Monday, October 19, 2026 Monday, November 16, 2026 Monday, December 14, 2026 All meetings take place at 6 pm. CANCELLED DATES January 19, 2026 (holiday) February 16, 2026 (holiday) March 16, 2026 Monday, December 21, 2026 LOCATION TBD TBD TBD City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20251020-005: In-Vitro Fertilization Coverage 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 financially penalized by the City’s delayed implementation. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The Commission recommends that the City Council direct HR to improve employee communication through a communications plan and outreach on family-building benefits, …
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20251020-006: Proclamation for Transgender Day of Remembrance 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. Date of Approval: October 20, 2025 Motioned By: Commissioner Brown Seconded By: Chair Coyne Vote: 9-0 For: Chair Coyne, Commissioners Bandit, Benson, Brown, Davis, Fierro-Pérez, Knutson, Neal, Rivas Against: None Abstain: None Off the dais: None Absent: Vice Chair McLeod, Commissioners Krueger, Treviño Attest: _____________________________________________ Ryan Sperling, LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Staff Liaison
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20251020-007: Review Austin Pride 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 the annual pride event in addition to potentially supporting other City- recognized LGBTQ+ celebrations at other times of year, including events aligned with national LGBTQ+ observances such as Pride Month (June), Trans Day of Visibility (March), AIDS Remembrance Day (Dec. 1), or LGBTQ History Month (October). BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The Commission recommends that City Council direct staff to report back to Council and the LGBTQ Quality of …
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20251020-008: Restroom Access Policy 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 City Council direct the Austin Police Department (APD) to update its General Orders within forty-five (45) days to reflect this policy, with an emphasis on respect, privacy, de-escalation, and human dignity. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends that City Council direct APD, OEI, and the County and City Attorney's Office to jointly develop a coordinated response plan within forty-five …
DRAFT MINUTES URBAN RENEWAL BOARD September 15, 2025, 6:00 P.M. STREET JONES BUILDING, ROOM 400A 1000 EAST 11TH ST, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78702 CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Manuel Escobar, Chair Darrell W, Pierce, Vice Chair Amit Motwani Byron Davis Jacqueline Watson Kobla Tetey Tam Hawkins Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Manuel Escobar, Vice Chair Darrell W.Pierce and Commissioners Jacqueline Watson, Amit Motwani, Byron Davis. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: No members attended remotely. Board Members Absent/off the dais at call to order: Commissioner Tam Hawkins was absent. CALL TO ORDER Chair Escobar, called the meeting to order at 6:08 pm with 6 members present. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers who registered to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting, if speaking virtually, or who signed up prior to the meeting being called to order if speaking in person, will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. Paul Stables addressed the board regarding Item 3. 1 of 3 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Urban Renewal Board’s (URB’s) regular-called meeting on August 18, 2025 On Commissioner Tetey’s motion, Commissioner Davis’s second, the August 18, 2025, minutes were approved on a 6-0-0 vote. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion related to updates on future development of Blocks 16 & 18 from Pleasant Hill Collaborative and Rally Austin, including project status and anticipated timeline (Pleasant Hill Collaborative) DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Discussion and approval of a recommendation to City Council proposed by the URB regarding the requested Urban Renewal Plan amendment for 1201 E 11th St. On Commissioner Watson’s motion, Commissioner Motwani’s second, a recommendation to City Council was approved on a 5-1-0 vote. 4. Discussion and approval of an amendment extending the license agreement between the Urban Renewal Agency and DiverseArts On Commissioner Davis’s motion, Commissioner Motwani’s recommendation to City Council was approved on a 5-1-0 vote. second, a 5. Discussion and approval of an amendment extending the license agreement between the Urban Renewal Agency and Capitol View Arts On Commissioner Watson’s motion, Commissioner Davis’s recommendation to City Council was approved on a 5-1-0 vote. second, a 6. Discussion and authorization of Chair Escobar to amend Exclusive Negotiation Agreement language to move necessary items to Phase A-2, as needed second, a On Commissioner Watson’s motion, Commissioner Davis’s recommendation to City Council was approved on a 5-0-0 vote. …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board Recommendation Number: 20251020-05: Support for investing in farmland preservation and access in Austin and Travis County WHEREAS, the 2022 City of Austin State of the Food System Report indicates that less than 0.6% of the food consumed in Travis County is produced locally, and that approximately 16.8 acres of farmland are lost daily to development pressure, underscoring the critical need for agricultural land preservation e(cid:431)orts; and WHEREAS, farmland in Central Texas is continuing to increase in value and decrease in quantity, the opportunity to preserve a meaningful amount of farmland will disappear as development spreads and farmland is permanently converted to other uses; and WHEREAS, it is recognized by the Milan Urban Food Policy Pact and demonstrated by the Carbon Cycle Institute that agricultural land managed according to regenerative principles is vital to local food security, watershed protection, emergency preparedness, and climate resilience; and WHEREAS, farmland preservation supports multiple City priorities, including increasing local food production, improving water quality, wildlife habitat preservation, ecosystem biodiversity, stormwater management, carbon sequestration, and recreation; and WHEREAS, the Austin/Travis County Food Plan, approved by Austin City Council in October 2024, includes strategic, measurable, and time-bound goals and strategies to strengthen food security, promote environmental sustainability, and address climate change; and WHEREAS, Goal 1 of the Austin/Travis County Food Plan prioritizes expanding community food production, preserving agricultural lands, and increasing the amount of farmland dedicated to regenerative food production in Austin and Travis County; and WHEREAS, Strategy 1.1 of the Food Plan calls for the preservation of land for food production in Central Texas through conservation easements, fee-simple purchases, and land-banking, ensuring that farmland remains dedicated to agricultural use; and WHEREAS, Strategy 1.2 of the Food Plan directs the City of Austin to pursue capital funding sources to finance the preservation of land for agricultural use through conservation easements or direct purchases; and WHEREAS, preserving agricultural land also supports the goals of the Austin Climate Equity Plan by promoting sustainable land use and reducing carbon footprints through localized food production; and WHEREAS, Natural Systems Goal 2 of the Austin Climate Equity Plan aims to protect 500,000 acres of farmland across the five-county region through legal conservation or regenerative agriculture programs by 2030; and WHEREAS, the ATCFPB passed Recommendation Number: 20250310-06A: Support for Agricultural Land Acquisition and Preservation in March 2025 encouraging the city to increase sta(cid:431) capacity to …
ELECTRIC UTILITY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Monday, October 20, 2025 ELECTRIC UTILITY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Monday, October 20, 2025 The Electric Utility Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Monday, October 20, 2025, at Austin Energy Headquarters, 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723. Chair David Tuttle called the Electric Utility Commission meeting to order at 6:06 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Commissioner Dave Tuttle, Commissioner Cesar Benavides, Commissioner Chris Gillett, and Commissioner Joshua Rhodes Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Commissioner Raul Alvarez; Commissioner Al Braden; Commissioner Chris Kirksey; Commissioner Cyrus Reed; and Commissioner Kaiba White, Vice Chair. Commissioners Absent: Commissioner Lauren Bellomy and Commissioner Jonathon Blackburn. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL • Sara Black – AE disconnection and customer service experience • Scott Johnson – Utility bill funds and programs APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Electric Utility Commission Regular Called Meeting on September 8, 2025. The motion approving the minutes of the Electric Utility Commission meeting on September 8, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Gillett’s motion, Commissioner Benavides’ second on a 9-0 vote with Commissioner Bellomy and Blackburn absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend approval authorizing a contract for an Industrial Control Systems Technology solution to ensure compliance with upcoming North American Electric Reliability Corporation - Critical Infrastructure Protection regulations and audit readiness for Austin Energy with Freeit Data Solutions Inc., for an initial term of one year with up to four 1-year extension options in an amount not to exceed $4,105,000. Funding: $1,300,000 is available in the Capital Budget of Austin Energy. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. The motion to recommend approval authorizing execution of a contract for an Industrial Control Systems Technology solution to ensure compliance with upcoming North American Electric Reliability Corporation - Critical Infrastructure Protection regulations and audit readiness for Austin Energy with Freeit Data Solutions Inc., was recommended on Commissioner Rhodes’ motion, Commissioner Gillett’s second on a 9-0 vote with Commissioners Bellomy and Blackburn absent. 3. Recommend approval authorizing a contract for continued security services for Austin Energy with Universal Protection Service LP/Allied Universal Security Services to increase the amount by $180,045 and to extend the term by two years for a revised total contract amount not to exceed $256,045. Funding: $90,023 is available in the Operating Budget of Austin Energy. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in …
REGULAR MEETING of the ARTS COMMISSION October 20, 2025, at 6:00 PM Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001. 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 The ARTS COMMISSION convened in a REGULAR meeting on 20, October 2025 at Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001. 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Commissioner Houston called the ARTS COMMISSION Meeting to order at 6:05p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Gina Houston, Acia Gray, Celina Zisman, Sharron B Anderson Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Keyheira Keys, Monica Maldonado, Muna Hussaini, Heidi Schmalbach Board Members Absent: Felipe Garza, Faiza Kracheni, Nagavalli Medicharla CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Gina Houston - Chair, Acia Gray - Vice Chair, Keyheira Keys, Monica Maldonado, Felipe Garza, Heidi Schmalbach, Muna Hussaini, Celina Zisman, Faiza Kracheni, Sharron B Anderson, Nagavalli Medicharla MEETING MINUTES CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 1. Maria Luisa from Casa Costura spoke on their frustrations with Spanish language support. The translations and assistance were improved from before, but they were frustrated that their contract was not offered in Spanish. They have reached out to TALA to get assistance in translating the contract but haven’t heard back. They are uncomfortable signing a document they don’t understand. 2. Hector Ordaz from Proyecto Teatro spoke on their frustrations with the revised AACME guidelines and the lack of serving underrepresented communities. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Arts Commission Regular Meeting on September 22, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of September 22, 2025 were approved on Commissioner Zisman’s motion, Commissioner Grey’s second on an 6-0 vote with Commisisoner Anderson abstaining and Commissioners Maldonado, Garza, Kracheni, and Medicharla absent. A motion to move item 12 to after Item 2 was approved on Commissioner Zisman’s motion, Commissioner Schmalbach’s second on a 7-0 with Commissioners Maldonado, Garza, Kracheni, and Medicharla absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation on Rally Austin’s Proposal for the 2026 City of Austin Bond Election by David A. Colligan, Chief Operating Officer, Rally Austin. The presentation was given by David A. Colligan, Chief Operating Officer, Rally Austin. and Theresa Alvarez, Chief Executive Officer, Rally Austin. 3. Presentation on Art for All by Raasin McIntosh, Founder & CEO, and Mike Kim, COO of Raasin in the Sun. The presentation was given by Raasin McIntosh, Founder & CEO, and Mike Kim, COO of Raasin in the Sun. 4. Discussion on Commissioner Keys’ concerns coming from artists and arts advocates and discuss …
Austin/Travis County Food Policy Board MEETING MINUTES October 20, 2025 The Austin/Travis County Food Policy Board (ATCFPB) convened on Monday, October 20, at the City of Austin Permitting and Development Center, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Room 1406, Austin, TX 78752. Board Members in Attendance: Lisa Barden, Joi Chevalier, Beth Corbett, Hilda Gutierrez, Kacey Hanson, Matt Simon, Andy Smith, Andrea Abel, Natalie Poulos, Marissa Bell Board Members Absent: Nitza Cuevas, Erin McDonald Staff in Attendance: Edwin Marty (City of Austin), Angela Baucom (City of Austin), Yaira Robinson (Travis County), Johanna Arendt (Travis County) CALL TO ORDER Chair Joi Chevalier called the meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Board Member Andrea Abel motioned to approve the meeting minutes from the Regular Meeting on September 15, 2025, with Board Member Hilda Gutierrez, seconding the motion. Minutes passed on an 10-0 vote. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Briefing on Food During Emergencies and Disasters, Eric Carter, Chief Emergency Management Coordinator, Travis County Office of Emergency Management. In alignment with Goal 4 of the Austin-Travis County Food Plan, Travis County works across strategic partnerships, provides coordination across agencies and areas during emergency response, and works toward resilience through ongoing preparedness efforts informed by prior event and response experiences. (see backup materials for presentation) 3. Briefing on Austin Emergency Management, Food During Emergencies and Disasters, John “Donny” Cummings, Mass Care Coordinator. The Mass Care office began in 2023. Shelter, Food and Water coordination and the Austin Resilience Network all fall under the Mass Care umbrella. a. Three activations for 2025: February cold weather sheltering, end of May microburst of severe weather, and the July floods encompass. Hot washes were completed after each, which helped identify priority areas to direct focus through end of this year. Food and Water feature heavily in those priorities. b. There will a be a process to identify contractors who can meet a need to activate to deliver more feeding options rapidly. A contract should be going out for bid in the near future. AEM has established a working group that includes city, county, and regional government and non-governmental partners to discuss sheltering needs, which will include information to feed into food and water related topics. c. The focus of the Austin Resilience Network is to create an awareness and inventory of entities involved in community resilience work. AEM has identified a little under 150 organizations in …
LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, October 20, 2025 The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, October 20, 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) Brigitte Bandit Jerry Joe Benson Garry Brown Rocío Fierro-Pérez Asher Knutson Steven Rivas Commissioners in attendance remotely: Morgan Davis J. Scott Neal Chair Coyne called the meeting to order at 6:36 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Sweet Gwendolyn – Rainbow Safety Squad Dan Chavez – Rainbow Safety Squad Jonathan Barrett – Cheer Up Charlies Travis Coles – Cheer up Charlies APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission's regular meeting of September 15, 2025. The minutes of the September 15, 2025 meeting were approved on Commissioner Benson’s motion, Commissioner Brown’s second on a 9-0 vote. Vice Chair McLeod and Commissioners Krueger and Treviño were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS Page 1 of 4 2. Briefing regarding the Homeless Strategy Office’s current homelessness response efforts and key metrics, use of funding that targets trans community needs, and potential commission support. Briefing by David Gray, Director, Homeless Strategy Office. The presentation was made by David Grey, Director, and Charles Loosen, Community Engagement Consultant, Austin Homeless Strategies and Operations. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation informing commissioners about the new ASHwell Community Center. Presentation by Cy Herrera, Executive Director, ASHwell. The presentation was made by Cy Herrera, Executive Director, ASHwell. The meeting was recessed without objection at 8:05 p.m. The meeting reconvened at 8:15 PM. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve the 2026 Annual Meeting Schedule of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission. Taken up after item 11 without objection. Item 4 was postponed to November 17, 2025 without objection. 5. Approve a Recommendation for Equal Access to IVF Benefits. Item 5 was taken up before Item 4 without objection. The motion to approve a recommendation for equal access to IVF benefits was approved on Commissioner Benson’s motion, Commissioner Fierro-Pérez’ second on an 8-0-1 vote. Commissioner Neal abstained because he was unable to review recommendation language prior to the vote. Vice Chair McLeod and Commissioners Krueger and Treviño were absent. 6. Approve a Recommendation for a Proclamation for Transgender Day of Remembrance. The motion to approve a recommendation for a proclamation for Transgender …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2025 – 8:30 AM Permitting and Development Center – Room 1401/1402 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Austin, TX 78752 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, please email preservation@austintexas.gov. COMMISSION MEMBERS: Ben Heimsath, (D-8) Chair Roxanne Evans (D-2), Vice Chair Jeffrey Acton (Mayor) Vacant (D-1) Kevin Koch (D-3) Judah Rice (D-4) Harmony Grogan (D-5) Carl Larosche (D-6) Jaime Alvarez (D-7) Bat Taniguchi (D-9) Trey McWhorter (D-10) CALL TO ORDER AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first (10) 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. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. 2. 3. Presentation and discussion on the Equity-Based Preservation Plan implementation Presenter: Cara Bertron, Historic Preservation Office Presentation and discussion on Commission bylaws Presenter: Kalan Contreras and Kim McKnight, Historic Preservation Office Presentation and discussion on Commission and Committee meetings Presenter: Historic Preservation Office staff ADJOURNMENT 1 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 Historic Preservation Office at 512-974-3393 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Historic Landmark Commission, please contact Hunter Sturgill, Historic Preservation Planner II, at 512-974-3393; Austin Lukes, Historic Preservation Planner Senior, at 512-978-0766; or Kalan Contreras, Historic Preservation Officer, at 512-974-2727. 2
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION OPERATIONS COMMITTEE Friday, October 17, 2025 – 11 a.m. Permitting and Development Center Conference Room 1401/1402 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the committee may be participating by videoconference Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item NOT on the agenda 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 cara.bertron@austintexas.gov or call (512) 974-1446. COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Jeffrey Acton Trey McWhorter Judah Rice CALL TO ORDER AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten (10) 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. ACTION ITEMS 1. Approval of minutes from Sept. 15, 2025 meeting DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. Feedback on educational and outreach material use cases Potential update to historic sign standards 4. Ways to approach concerns about structural issues in older buildings 5. Cadence of in-person and hybrid meetings 6. Discussion of items for future Committee agendas 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 Historic Preservation Office at 512-974- 3393 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Operations Committee, please contact Cara Bertron at 512- 974-1446. COMMITTEE MEETING LOCATION City of Austin Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr., Austin 78752 Directions: From the parking garage, enter the double doors (center blue line in above map). In the lobby, take an immediate left and walk past the tables in the open area. Conference room 1401/1402 is on the right after the double doors (circled in red on the map). 2025 COMMITTEE MEETING SCHEDULE Monday, September 15, 11 a.m. Friday, October 17, 11 a.m. Wednesday, November 19, 11 a.m. Wednesday, December 17, 11 a.m.
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION PRESERVATION PLAN COMMITTEE Friday, October 17, 2025 – 11 a.m. Permitting and Development Center Conference Room 1215 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the committee may be participating by videoconference Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item NOT on the agenda 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 cara.bertron@austintexas.gov or call (512) 974-1446. COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Roxanne Evans Carl Larosche Bat Taniguchi CALL TO ORDER AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten (10) 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. ACTION ITEMS 1. 2. Approval of minutes from January 9, 2025 meeting Selection of Committee chair DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. Process to develop and update implementation plan for 10-year span Review of the Progress Dashboard and Open Data Portal 5. 6. 7. Introduction to and discussion of Preservation Plan Summit Cadence of in-person and hybrid meetings Items for future Committee agendas 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 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. COMMITTEE MEETING LOCATION City of Austin Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr., Austin 78752 Directions: From the parking garage, enter the double doors, following the center blue line in the above map. In the lobby, walk past the information desk on the right and elevators on the left, then turn left. Conference room 1215 is on the left (circled in red on the map). 2025 COMMITTEE MEETING SCHEDULE Friday, October 17, 11 a.m. Tuesday, November 11, 4 p.m. Tuesday, December 9, 4 p.m.
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION OPERATIONS COMMITTEE Monday, September 15, 2025 – 11 a.m. Permitting and Development Center Conference Room 1203 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Austin, TX 78752 COMMITTEE MEMBERS: x x x Jeffrey Acton Trey McWhorter Judah Rice DRAFT MINUTES CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No public communication. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. Operations Committee purview, as outlined in Historic Landmark Commission bylaws • Review of Committee purview 2. Equity-Based Preservation Plan progress dashboard and implementation plan • Review of progress dashboard and progress database for the Equity-Based Preservation Plan • Explanation of how Plan recommendations were prioritized for implementation 3. Feedback on list of potential educational and outreach materials • Recommendation that materials from other departments reflect preservation good practices • Request to develop use cases and user personas to identify gaps in existing materials • Discussion of proactive outreach out to historic property owners about historic review requirements and good practices (e.g., via real estate agents) 4. Possible changes to historic preservation sections of the Land Development Code • Overview of code change process 5. Proposed near-term items for Committee review and input • Committee members can suggest items for future agendas 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 Historic Preservation Office at 512-974- 3393 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Operations Committee, please contact Cara Bertron at 512- 974-1446.
