Hybrid Public Transit for Austin What are the components? • City-wide on-demand micro transit in multi-passenger EV vans • In conjunction with Rapid Bus in high-density, high-demand corridors What is City-wide on-demand micro transit? • EV vans for shared, door-to-door rides anywhere in town, summoned by app or phone • Routes dynamically located and optimized for multiple riders with projected travel times • Integrated with Rapid Bus Transit whenever a transfer to BRT would be faster Advantages of city-wide on-demand micro transit: • Ease of use -- Eliminates walking to/from bus stops, eliminates transfers, no schedule- planning, rides arrive within 15 minutes after request • Equity – Easy transit access for the entire city, not just those who want and can afford to live in transit corridors • Safe, direct, inexpensive transit for the elderly, those with disabilities, and children • Faster than conventional fixed-route • no first/last mile walks or trips, no waiting for transfers integrates with rapid bus at both ends where useful • • Cost • Phase One Project Connect rail: 28500 riders/day, capital cost $7.1 billion • On-Demand: 400 vans + 4 100-port charging stations, 28,500 riders/day (as per experience elsewhere), capital cost $62 million • operations and maintenance cost $94 million/yr • On-Demand is Adaptable • can expand service without expanding infrastructure • can flex for commuting on weekdays vs. weekend and special events • flexes as the future city changes shape • Reduces traffic – Door-to-door convenience and cost savings will induce private car • Preserves parklands – Can reduce parking demand at major parks, preserving drivers to use ride-sharing transit parkland for recreation • Sustainable – publicly available charging stations support wider EV adoption • Fast implementation – the only new physical infrastructure is charging stations • Proven, commercially available technology, used in other cities, dispatching software matches vans to sets of riders along approximate paths and constructs optimal routes
Office of Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment Update Arts Commission Meeting February 24, 2025 Office of Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment Established February 24, 2025, ACME focuses on sustaining and growing Austin’s creative sector Implements recommendation of CreateAustin Cultural Master Plan • Principal Recommendation #3: Create a City Department of Arts and Culture Inaugural Director: Angela Means Impacted Departments/Divisions: • Aviation: Music & Events; Austin Public Library: Heritage Centers; Economic Development: Cultural Arts, AIPP; Parks & Recreation: Cultural Centers, Office of Special Events, Heritage Tourism; Development Services: Austin Center for Events, Entertainment Services • Streamlines staff coordination, provides a more cohesive and accessible experience for stakeholders and amplifies the reach and effectiveness of joint initiatives • • • • Goals: C I T Y O F A U S T I N Questions? C I T Y O F A U S T I N
Hotel Occupancy Tax Update Arts Commission Meeting February 24, 2025 Hotel Occupancy Tax – January 2025 • Total HOT Collections January 2025 = $29,682,604 • 36% of FY25 Approved Budget of $169,901,585 • Cultural Arts Fund January 2025 = $2,834,604 C I TY O F A U S T I N HOT Cultural Arts Fund - FY25 C I TY O F A U S T I N Approved Budget for FY25: $16,217,879 FY25 HOT Cultural Arts Fund to date: $5,892,855 HOT Collections (FY22 – FY25) C I TY O F A U S T I N Questions? C I TY O F A U S T I N
Cultural Arts Funding Update February 24, 2025 Agenda 1. Contracts & Payments 2. FY 25 Cultural Funding Updates 3. Grant Funded Activities C I T Y O F A U S T I N Contracts & Payments FY23 Elevate FY23 Nexus (Fall/Winter) FY24 Nexus (Spring/ Summer) FY23-24 Thrive (Year 1) FY23-24 Thrive (Year 2) Contracts & Payments (As of 2/21/25) 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%) 196 (98%) 155 (78%) 51 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 49 (96%) n/a 51 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 51 (100%) n/a 36 36 (100%) 36 (100%) 36 (100%) 36 (100%) n/a See year 1 N/A N/A 35 (97%) 35 (100%) n/a Total Dist. to date Total Allocation $6,005,942 (96%) $6,250,000 $254,000 (99%) $255,000 $255,000 (100%) $255,000 $3,901,500 (100%) $3,901,500 (100%) $3,901,500 $3,901,500 *Each grant has a different reporting deadline. Final Payments are issued upon successful close out of Final Report. C I T Y O F A U S T I N FY 25 Cultural Funding Updates Cultural Funding Program Update Staff have determined the need for an intentional timeline shift for Cultural Funding Programs (Elevate) Established Goals within Timeline Shift • Maintain Goals established during Cultural Funding Review Process (Pilot Year 3) • Address Legislative Impacts (State/Federal) • Meaningfully Engage Community and Commission • Limit Potential Funding Disruptions Goal Launch: Early Fall 2025 C I T Y O F A U S T I N Speak Up Austin 1. https://publicinput.com/x76220 2. Open through July 2025 C I T Y O F A U S T I N January Responses C I T Y O F A U S T I N FY 25 Nexus Timeline January 28, 2025 May 1, 2025 May 30, 2026 Nexus application opens Nexus activities begin Latest Nexus Final Report due date Nexus application closes Last day for Nexus activities March 6, 2025 April 30, 2026 C I T Y O F A U S T I N Grant Funded Activities FY23-24 Cultural Funding Grantee Activities Irene Antonia Diane Reece • January 18 – March 4 • Women & Their Work – Women & Their Work (Dist 4) 7th Annual Fresh Squeezed Ounce of Opera • February 21 – March 2 • One Ounce Opera – dadaLab (Dist 4) The Art of Taxes • February …
•Project: Asian American Resource Center •Artist: TBD •Phase: ACTION: Approve Request for Qualifications •Sponsoring Department: Parks & Recreation •Project Budget: $90,000 •Council District: District 1 •Project Manager: Lindsay Hutchens Arts Commission Meeting 02/24/2025 Asian American Resource Center 8401 Cameron Rd, Austin, TX 78754 Project Background The Asian American Resource Center Pavilion project centers around the development of a multipurpose pavilion that integrates with the existing great lawn. The pavilion is envisioned as a flexible, year-round venue designed to host a variety of small to medium-sized programs and events. Key planned features include a performance area, accessible amenities, and supporting infrastructure for diverse community activities. This project is designed to provide a high-quality, versatile space that meets the diverse needs of its users and emphasizes sustainability. 2D or 3D artwork Austin area artists Asian American Resource Center AIPP on-site Lotus, 2013, ceramic tile and granite Sunyong Chung and Philippe Klinefelter AIPP in the area Gus Garcia Recreation Center Building Community, 2023 painted mural Lindsey Millikin Tribute to Gus Garcia, 2008 steel and stone Lars Stanley Georgian Acres Park To Be Together, 2023, aluminum stainless steel, paint Kemba Opio St. John's Pocket Park St. John Community Pillar, 2021 concrete, steel, acrylic paint Damon Moseley St. Johns Community Center Community Core Sample Project, 2002, mixed media Threshold Project, 2002, marble Beverly Penn and Steve Wiman EMS Station 14 Sky Gates, 2013 aluminum, brass, copper, glass Peter Mangan OPEN CALL TO ARTISTS Public Art Opportunity Asian American Resource Center - City of Austin Art in Public Places project, District 1 City of Austin (Texas): Art in Public Places (AIPP) Call open – May 20, 2025 Deadline for Submissions – June 26, 2025, time TBD Submit all information via TBC Description The City of Austin Art in Public Places program (AIPP) of the Cultural Arts Division, Economic Development Department (EDD) seeks to commission one professional visual artist or artist-led team to design, fabricate and install two and/or three-dimensional exterior artwork at the Asian American Resource Center at 8401 Cameron Rd, Austin, TX 78754. Public Artwork Goals • A work of art of redeeming quality that advances public understanding of visual art and enhances • Conceptualizes a strong overall artwork design approach that integrates with the site the aesthetic quality of public places and surrounding natural environment • Speaks to and represents the Asian American experience in Austin, Texas, including o Diaspora, migration o Belonging, setting …
• Project: Terminal Expansion Phase (TEP) II A • Artist(s): Beili Liu • Phase: Final Design Review • Sponsoring Department: Aviation • Project Budget: $200,000 • Council District: District 2 • Project Manager: Alex Irrera DATE:02/24 /2025 ARTS COMMIS SION ME ETING AGE NDA ITEM TEP II A Recent Project Timeline: ➢ August 2023 – Mid-Design Review at AIPP Panel ➢ September 2023 – Final Design Package submitted ➢ April 2024 – Site change ➢ May 2024 – Budget increase from $155K to $200K ➢ September 2024 – Staff update to AIPP Panel ➢ December 2024 – Revised Final Design Package submitted ➢ January 2025 – Permitting/Fire Review and AUS Review of Revised Final Design ➢ February 2025 – AIPP Panel & Arts Commission Review of Revised Final Design Original Site: Exit of the elevated International Corridor and above the main escalator and staircase within the FIS/CBP area TEP II A New Site: High ceiling triangle nook and clerestory volume by Gate 15 (approximate area shown) Convergence / Austin AUS Terminal Expansion Phase II AIPP Project Final Design Presentation Beili Liu Studio Lure/Rise Chinese Culture Foundation of San Francisco Thread, needle, dimensions variable Narrative The Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is one of the fastest-growing airports in our nation, reflecting the impressive growth and increasing allure of our beloved city of Austin as an eclectic culture, arts, and technology destination. Serving both Austin residents and travelers around the world, the AUS Terminal Expansion Phase II accommodates an additional four million passengers and supports the AUS Airport’s mission to be the “Gateway to the World for All.” Convergence / Austin is a site-responsive public art installation that reflects and responds to the purpose, growth, and excellence of the Austin-Bergstrom Airport. Visual Impact The ascending, fluid rhythm of the artwork invokes the intricate and interconnected balance among diverse individuals and the powerful force that emerges when we come together to form an ever-evolving and energetic community. Convergence / Austin encourages travelers to take a moment to slow down—to observe and contemplate, to connect and share. Rendering Full View Artwork overlaid on the Fire suppression plan Artwork overlaid on the Fire suppression plan (zoomed in) Artwork overlaid on the Mezzanine Floorplan 44'7" floor tobottom of beam50'2" floorto ceiling45'5" floor tobottom of beam18'5" floor tobottom of panel21'3" floor to bottomof window frame33'-6"40'30'18'-7"18'-6"18'-9"10"12"412" Ceiling Suspension Structure • • • Footprint of artwork: 16’x 12‘, updated to fit …
RECOMMENDATION FOR EVOLVING THE CURRENT CULTURAL ARTS GRANTS PROGRAM FRAMEWORK Recommenda�on from the 2025 CAD Grants Working group PARTICIPANTS Arts Commissioners Community members RECOMMENDATION RE-DEFINE PROGRAMS Acia Gray, Gina Houston, Faiza Kracheni, Monica Maldanado, Nagavalli Medicharla (Chair, Working Group) Bonnie Cullum (Vortex), Candyce Rusk (Individual ar�st, crea�ve + business writer), John Riedi (Aus�n Crea�ve Alliance), Matrex Kilgore (Individual ar�st, Theatre/Arts educa�on, TCA background), Toni Bravo (DiverseSpace Dance Theatre), Anne Charlote Paterson (Individual ar�st, Dance, Music Commission), Celeste Quesada (Non-profit/film, Music Commission) ** Sections highlighted in yellow indicate that there was difference of approach/opinion on the item within the working group • THRIVE (biennial): Two Year Opera�onal Support to help arts nonprofits get to ins�tu�onal • ELEVATE (annual): Annual Project-based Support for arts nonprofits, art groups, and • Nexus (semi-annual): Semi-annual / short term Project-based Support for arts nonprofits, status o Emerging o Established / Legacy independent ar�sts. o Note: Removed “creative businesses” independent ar�sts, and art groups o Note: Removed “creative businesses” RE-DEFINE APPLICANT ELIGIBILITY Thrive: • Arts Nonprofits crea�ve history for the past 5 years • Org opera�onal budget min. $50K in the past year Elevate: • Organiza�on should be registered as an arts non-profit for min. 5 years and have demonstrated • Arts Non-profits • Independent Ar�sts o Organiza�on should be registered as a non-profit for min. 3 years and have demonstrated crea�ve history for the past 3 years o Demonstrated crea�ve history for the past 2 years o Require fiscal sponsorship Fiscal sponsorship fee limited to 10% of grant or less Sponsoring en��es should meet accepted standards for sponsoring qualifica�ons - separa�on of funds, financial processes mee�ng GAAP, do not share staff with sponsored projects, etc. • All applicants need 50% matching funds incl. IN KIND or possible staff explora�on of ques�ons that would highlight this community engagement • Arts Group o Demonstrated crea�ve history for the past 2 years o Require fiscal sponsorship Fiscal sponsorship fee limited to 10% of grant or less Sponsoring en��es should meet accepted standards for sponsoring qualifica�ons - separa�on of funds, financial processes mee�ng GAP, do not share staff with sponsored project, etc • All applicants need 50% matching funds incl. in kind or staff explora�on of ques�ons that would highlight community engagement Nexus: • Independent ar�sts • Arts groups • Arts Nonprofits • Demonstrated crea�ve history for the past 1 year • No fiscal sponsorship requirement …
DESIGN COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250224-003 February 24, 2025 Austin Core Transportation Plan Date: Subject: Motioned By: Recommendation The Design Commission recommends the Austin Core Transportation Plan to City Council with the following friendly amendments. Commissioner Luckens Seconded By: Commissioner Carroll • Street trees be mandatory in the corridor projects presented in the Austin Core Transportation Plan • The implementation of the plan shall include the green costs and green infrastructure estimates be part of the base estimates and not a line item • The inclusion of a multimodal transportation plan in and out of the urban core to the surrounding communities. • Projects in the Austin Core Transportation Plan be brought to the Design Commission. Rationale: The rational for supporting The Core Transportation Plan with the friendly amendments is to emphasize items of importance that reflect vision and goals set forth in the Urban Design Guidelines. 1. We strongly feel the need to prioritize the mandatory inclusion of street trees for any right of way improvements. Street trees are a necessity that greatly helps us meet our goals of becoming a more walkable city by providing critical shading along sidewalks, helps mitigate climate change through carbon sequestration and can act as a barrier to protect pedestrians from vehicular traffic. 2. The commission believes that the plan should also include provisions to address the reduction of the TxDOT level speeds as vehicles enter downtown city streets. This protects pedestrian and existing downtown multimodal transportation from collisions with vehicles moving at unsafe rates of speed. 3. The plan should also include a plan for multimodal transportation in and out of the urban core from the surrounding districts to provide for an equitable opportunity to explore the downtown core. 4. The commission agreed that the priority and supporting projects presented in The Austin Core Transportation Plan meet the requirements of infrastructure projects to be reviewed by the commission and should come before the commission for review and comment. A majority of the elements proposed in the plan include design strategies that directly correspond to the goals of the Urban Design Guidelines. 10-0 Vote: 1 of 2 For: Chair Salinas, Vice Chair Meiners, Commissioner Carroll, Commissioner Gelles, Commissioner Howard, Commissioner Ladner, Commissioner Luckens, Commissioner McKinney, Commissioner Wallace, Commissioner Wittstruck Against: Abstain: Absent: Vacancy: District 6 Attest: Jon Salinas, AIA Chair - Design Commission District 2 2 of 2
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20250224-11 February 24, 2025 Date: Subject: Motioned By: Holly Reed City-Wide On-Demand Micro Transit to Parks and Recreation Centers Seconded By: Kim Taylor Whereas many of Austin's favorite parks, including Zilker Park, Vic Matthias Shores, Michael Butler Park, Roy G.Guerrero Park, Bull Creek Park, and the Barton Creek Greenbelt have parking capacity problems on busy days Whereas Austin's voters have indicated support for public transit solutions to the extent of willingness to be taxed specifically for solutions Whereas On-Demand transit (aka Demand-Response transit), which offers shared-ride van service summoned by cell phone, browser app, or telephone, can provide direct transit from a rider's location to their destination, including any City Park, thus relieving the need to take a personal car Whereas compared to conventional fixed-route modes that have first mile/last-mile problems and often involve transfers between vehicles, direct van transit offers an ease-of-use and accessible advantage for carrying recreational equipment, children, and small groups to and from a park Whereas by reducing the number of car and truck trips to parks and recreation centers from any city-wide origin, On-Demand transit can reduce the demand for on-site and near on-site parking Whereas CapMetro currently offers On-Demand van service (Pickup) in several zones around the city, but only within those zones Whereas experience in other cities suggests that On-Demand transit can be successfully offered as a city- wide service, providing rides between any source and destination within the city Whereas the only public transit to many parks is by fixed route/fixed schedule bus, with many parks having little or no public transit access Whereas On-Demand fleets can serve multiple purposes, supporting work commuting on weekdays and recreational commuting during more popular recreational hours Whereas public transit agencies typically set On-Demand fares so that rides are affordable for all citizens Whereas On-Demand service requires no physical infrastructure, so is more adaptable to long-term changes in the configuration of the city and can be financed with much lower capital expenditure than other forms of public transit with the possible exception of conventional buses Whereas commercially available modeling technology is available that would support rich, formal analysis of the potential sizing and functioning of On-Demand public transit integrated with Rapid Bus (BRT) service in the context of Austin's physical layout, traffic data, and other existing transit modes 1 of 2 Therefore the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Board recommends …
ARTS COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250224-011 Date: 2/24/2025 Subject: RECOMMENDATION FOR EVOLVING THE CURRENT CULTURAL ARTS GRANTS PROGRAM FRAMEWORK Seconded By: Commissioner Garza Motioned By: Commissioner Medicharla Recommendation This recommendation comes from the FY25 Arts Commission Working group chaired by Commissioner Nagavalli Medicharla with participants including Arts Commissioners Acia Gray, Gina Houston, Faiza Kracheni and Monica Maldanado, and Community members including Bonnie Cullum (Vortex), Candyce Rusk (Individual artist, creative + business writer), John Riedi (Austin Creative Alliance), Matrex Kilgore (Individual artist, Theatre/Arts education, TCA background), Toni Bravo (DiverseSpace Dance Theatre), Anne Charlotte Patterson (Individual artist, Dance, Music Commission), Celeste Quesada (Non-profit/film, Music Commission) Note: The recommendation includes sections highlighted in yellow indicating difference of approach/opinion on the item within the working group. Description of Recommendation to Council RE-DEFINE PROGRAMS • THRIVE (biennial): Two Year Operational Support to help arts nonprofits get to • ELEVATE (annual): Annual Project-based Support for arts nonprofits, art groups, and • Nexus (semi-annual): Semi-annual / short term Project-based Support for arts nonprofits, institutional status o Emerging o Established / Legacy independent artists. o Note: Removed “creative businesses” independent artists, and art groups o Note: Removed “creative businesses” RE-DEFINE APPLICANT ELIGIBILITY Thrive: • Arts Nonprofits • Organization should be registered as an arts non-profit for min. 5 years and have demonstrated creative history for the past 5 years • Org operational budget min. $50K in the past year Elevate: • Arts Non-profits o Organization should be registered as a non-profit for min. 3 years and have demonstrated creative history for the past 3 years 1 of 4 • Independent Artists o Demonstrated creative history for the past 2 years o Require fiscal sponsorship Fiscal sponsorship fee limited to 10% of grant or less Sponsoring entities should meet accepted standards for sponsoring qualifications - separation of funds, financial processes meeting GAAP, do not share staff with sponsored projects, etc. • All applicants need 50% matching funds incl. IN KIND or possible staff exploration of questions that would highlight this community engagement • Arts Group o Demonstrated creative history for the past 2 years o Require fiscal sponsorship Fiscal sponsorship fee limited to 10% of grant or less Sponsoring entities should meet accepted standards for sponsoring qualifications - separation of funds, financial processes meeting GAP, do not share staff with sponsored project, etc • All applicants need 50% matching funds incl. in kind or staff exploration of …
MINUTES URBAN RENEWAL BOARD February 24, 2025, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1407 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR. AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 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, Commissioners Amit Motwani, Byron Davis, Kobla Tetey, and Jacqueline Watson, and Vice Chair Darrell W. Pierce arrived at 6:26 p.m. 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 6:14 p.m. with five members present. Vice Chair Darrell W. Pierce off the dais at call to order. 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. There were no members of the public to address the board. 1 of 3 2. 3. 4. 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Urban Renewal Board’s (URB’s) regular-called meeting on January 13, 2025 On Commissioner Motwani’s motion, seconded by Commissioner Watson, the minutes from January 13, 2025, were approved with a vote of 5-0-0. Vice Chair Darrell W. Pierce off the dais. DISCUSSION ITEMS Update and discussion related to the annual budget process (Mandy DeMayo, Interim Director, Housing Department) Mandy DeMayo, Interim Director of the Housing Department, updated on changes in the budget process. Discussion related to updates on future development of Blocks 16 & 18 from Rally Austin, including project status and anticipated timeline (Anne Gatling Haynes, Rally Austin) Anne Gatling Haynes, Rally Austin provided updates. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS No discussion or action items for this meeting. EXECUTIVE SESSION Chair Escobar recessed the regular meeting and called the Executive Session to order at 6:31 p.m. Discuss legal matters related to the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of an interest in Blocks 16 and 18 located on East 11th Street in Austin (Private consultation with legal counsel - Section 551.071 of the Texas Government Code) Discuss real estate matters related to the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of an interest in Blocks 16 and 18 located …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 24, 2025 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 24, 2025 The PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD convened in a REGULAR meeting on February 24, 2025 at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas Chair Villalobos called the PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Meeting to order at 6:06 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Lane Becker, Kathryn Flowers, Holly Reed, Pedro Villalobos. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Stephanie Bazan (arrived at 7:25 p.m.), Jennifer Franklin, Shelby Orme, Kim Taylor. Board Members Absent: Cathleen Eady, Nicole Merritt. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Frank Cruz IV - Thankful to the City for not banning pier fishing Carol Baxter - ARC learn to row and paddle programs Phil Thomas - Deep Holly Advocates and Nash Hernandez Building Larry Akers - Public transit to parks APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of January 27, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of January 27, 2025 was approved on Chair Villalobos’ motion, Vice Chair Flowers’ second on a 7-0 vote with one vacancy. Board Members Bazan, Eady and Merritt absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for Parks and Recreation Forestry Staff for their work planting, watering and maintaining trees, as well as participating in and hosting tree climbs. Josh Erickson, Urban Forestry Program Manager, Parks and Recreation gave a presentation. The motion to approve letters of support for Parks and Recreation Forestry Staff for their work planting, watering and maintaining trees, as well as participating in and hosting tree climbs was approved on Chair Villalobos’ motion, Vice Chair Flowers’ second on a 7-0 vote with one vacancy. Board Members Bazan, Eady and Merritt absent. 1 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 24, 2025 3. Presentation, discussion and approve a recommendation that Austin City Council authorize negotiation and execution of an interlocal agreement with AISD to collaborate on the GO Project, an educational program for high school aged students with disabilities. Devon Farber, Program Manager, Parks and Recreation gave a presentation. The motion to recommend that Austin City Council authorize negotiation and execution of an interlocal agreement with AISD to collaborate on the GO Project, an educational program for high school aged students with disabilities was approved on Chair Villalobos’ motion, Board Member Becker’s second on a 7-0 …
REGULAR MEETING of the ARTS COMMISSION February 24, 2025, at 6:00 PM Austin Energy, Mueller Assembly Rm 1111a (115). 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723 The ARTS COMMISSION convened in a REGULAR meeting on 24, February 2025 at Austin Energy, Mueller Assembly Rm 1111a (115). 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723 Commissioner Zisman called the ARTS COMMISSION Meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Celina Zisman, Acia Gray, Amy Mok, Faiza Kracheni, Gina Houston, Felipe Garza, Monica Maldonado, Nagavalli Medicharla Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Board Members Absent: Heidi Schmalbach, Keyheira Keys CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Celina Zisman - Chair, Heidi Schmalbach - Vice Chair, Keyheira Keys, Monica Maldonado, Felipe Garza, Gina Houston, Acia Gray, Faiza Kracheni, Amy Mok, Nagavalli Medicharla AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Jaymie and Ursula Walker from Dance Verity invited the Arts Commission to their event called (You)nity Nights APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Arts Commission Regular Meeting on January 27, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of January 27, 2024 were approved on Commissioner Gray’s motion, Commissioner Garza second on a 7-0 vote with Commissioner’s Medicharla, Keys, and Medicharla absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion of DEI words that will no longer allowed to be used by the Trump administration by Chair Zisman An update was given by Commissioner Zisman 3. Report of the Art in Public Places Liaison concerning actions taking during the February 3rd meeting of the Art in Public Places Panel by Commissioner Maldonado No update given 4. Update on actions taken at the January 15th Downtown Commission meeting by Commissioner Mok An update was given by Commissioner Mok STAFF BRIEFINGS 5. Staff briefing regarding the establishment of the Office of Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment by Matthew Schmidt, Acting Cultural Arts Division Manager The presentation was made by Matthew Schmidt, Acting Cultural Arts Division Manager and Angela Means, Director of the Office of Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment 6. Staff briefing regarding an update on the Hotel Occupancy Tax by Matthew Schmidt, Acting Cultural Arts Division Manager The presentation was made by Matthew Schmidt, Acting Cultural Arts Division Manager 7. Staff briefing on the Cultural Arts Funding Programs by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor The presentation was made by Matthew Schmidt, Acting Cultural Arts Division Manager DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 8. Action to Approve Request for Qualification for the Asian American Resource Center Art in …
DESIGN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2025 The Design Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, February 24, 2025, located at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive, in Austin, Texas. Chair Salinas called the Design Commission meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Jon Salinas, Chair David Carroll Conners Ladner Ben Luckens Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Josue Meiners, Vice Chair Nkiru Gelles Kevin Howard Marissa McKinney – Commissioner McKinney joined the meeting at 6:22 p.m. Brita Wallace Brendan Wittsruck PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on January 27, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of 01/27/2025 were approved on Commissioner Ladner’s motion, Chair Salinas’ second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner McKinney was off the dais. One vacancy on the dais. STAFF BRIEFINGS 1. 1 2. Staff briefing regarding the process for corridor planning. Presented by Michelle Marx, Transportation and Public Works. Sponsors: Vice Chair Meiners and Commissioner Carroll. The presentation was made by Michelle Marx, Transportation and Public Works. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Discussion and action to recommend the Austin Core Transportation Plan to City Council. Presented by Michelle Marx, Transportation and Public Works. The motion to recommend the Austin Core Transportation Plan to City Council was approved with the following friendly amendments on Commissioner Lucken’s motion, Commissioner Carroll’s second on a 10-0 vote. One vacancy on the dais. The friendly amendment from Commissioner Howard was to recommend that street trees be mandatory. This was accepted by the maker of the motion, Commissioner Lukens, and Commissioner Carroll, who seconded the motion. The friendly amendment from Commissioner Wittstruck was to recommend the implementation plan include the green cost and green infrastructure estimates be part of the base estimates and not a line item. This was accepted by the maker of the motion, Commissioner Lukens, and Commissioner Carroll, who seconded the motion. The friendly amendment from Commissioner Wittstruck was to recommend coordination with TxDOT to reduce speed limits leading into downtown. This was accepted by the maker of the motion, Commissioner Lukens, and Commissioner Carroll, who seconded the motion. The friendly amendment from Commissioner Wittstruck was to recommend that the projects in the Austin Core Transportation Plan be brought to the Design Commission. This was accepted by the maker of the motion, Commissioner Lukens, and Commissioner Carroll, who seconded …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: 20250224-007: Recommendation to Protect Immigrant Communities and Ensure Access to Accurate, Accessible Information and Education in Austin Schools and Prioritize Anti-Discrimination Efforts Related to Immigration Status City Wide Motioned by: Commissioner Clemmons Seconded by: Commissioner Bryant Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: (20250220-001): Recommendation to Protect Immigrant Communities and Ensure Access to Accurate, Accessible Information and Education in Austin Schools and Prioritize Anti-Discrimination Efforts Related to Immigration Status City Wide WHEREAS, recent tragic events, such as the suicide of Jocelynn Rojo-Carranza, an 11 year- old-girl who faced bullying due to her family’s immigration status, have highlighted the severe and devastating impacts of immigration-related discrimination and lack of adequate protections within schools; WHEREAS, reports from immigrant families in Austin indicate that increased raids and threats of deportation have created a climate of fear, deter families from seeking assistance,, access education, or report incidents of violence or harassment for fear of being separated; WHEREAS, immigrants in Austin, including students, face systemic challenges, including bullying, harassment, and an overall lack of understanding about their rights and protections; WHEREAS, the City of Austin has a responsibility to ensure that all residents, irrespective of immigration status, have access to the resources and support they need to thrive, and that our schools provide a safe environment where all children can learn without fear of discrimination or retaliation; WHEREAS, inaccurate and inaccessible information about immigration laws and rights continues to be a barrier for many immigrants and their families, exacerbating their vulnerability contributing to mistrust of local institutions; and threatening their constitutional due process rights; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Human Rights Commission of the City of Austin recommends the following: 1. Ensure Access to Know Your Rights Materials in All Schools and Libraries: The City of Austin must ensure that Know Your Rights materials, such as Red Cards, specifically tailored for immigrant communities, are readily available in all public schools, libraries, and community centers through collaboration with Austin Independent School District and city libraries on the city of Austin website. These materials should provide clear, accessible information on immigration protections, including the right to an education regardless of immigration status, as well as the rights of students and families in case of detention or deportation. 2. Develop City-Sponsored Educational Resources on Immigration: The City should create and distribute educational resources and lessons on immigration to be used in …
PUBLIC NOTICE OF A MEETING TAKE NOTICE OF A BOARD OF DIRECTORS REGULAR BOARD MEETING OF THE AUSTIN AFFORDABLE HOUSING CORPORATION TO BE HELD AT HACA Central Office, 1124 S. Interstate Highway 35 To attend via Zoom: http://bit.ly/42OX8x7 Austin, TX (512.477.4488) Thursday, February 20, 2025 9:00 AM CALL TO ORDER, ROLL CALL CERTIFICATION OF QUORUM CONSENT AGENDA Public Communication (Note: There will be a three-minute time limitation) Items on the Consent Agenda may be removed at the request of any Commissioner and considered at another appropriate time on this agenda. Placement on the Consent Agenda does not limit the possibility of any presentation, discussion, or action at this meeting. Under no circumstances does the Consent Agenda alter any requirements under Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, Texas Open Meetings Act. CONSENT ITEMS 1. 2. ACTION ITEMS Presentation, Discussion, and Possible Action regarding the Approval of the Board Minutes Summary for the Board Meeting held on January 16, 2025 Presentation, Discussion and Possible Action on Resolution No. 00265 by the Board of Directors of Austin Affordable Housing Corporation (“AAHC”) authorizing AAHC to execute any and all documents, or take any other action, that is necessary or desirable to: (i) facilitate the acquisition of the Bridge at Iron Rock Ranch Apartments (the “Development”), which consists of multifamily housing units and associated amenities in Austin, Texas to be ground-leased from the Housing Authority of the City of Austin; (ii) cause AAHC’s subsidiary limited liability company (the “Owner”) to own the Development; (iii) cause the Owner to enter into acquisition and development financing for the Development; and (iv) cause AAHC and/or the Owner to execute any such further documentation as necessary or desirable to allow the consummation of the transactions described herein. EXECUTIVE SESSION The Board may go into Executive Session (close its meeting to the public) Pursuant to: a. 551.071, Texas Gov't Code, consultations with Attorney regarding legal advice, pending or contemplated litigation; or a settlement offer; b. 551.072, Texas Gov't Code, discussion about the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property; c. 551.074, Texas Gov't Code, discuss the appointment, employment, evaluation, reassignment, duties, discipline, or dismissal of a public officer or employee; or to hear a complaint or charge against an officer or employee. d. 551.087, Texas Gov't Code, discuss certain economic development negotiations. OPEN SESSION If there is an Executive Session, the Board will return to Open Session for …
PUBLIC NOTICE OF A MEETING TAKE NOTICE OF A BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR BOARD MEETING OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN TO BE HELD AT HACA Central Office, 1124 S. Interstate Highway 35 http://bit.ly/42OX8x7 Meeting ID: 825 2483 1908; Passcode 907066 Austin, TX (512.477.4488) Thursday, February 20, 2025 9:00 AM CALL TO ORDER, ROLL CALL CERTIFICATION OF QUORUM Citywide Advisory Board Update CONSENT AGENDA Public Communication (Note: There will be a three-minute time limitation) Items on the Consent Agenda may be removed at the request of any Commissioner and considered at another appropriate time on this agenda. Placement on the Consent Agenda does not limit the possibility of any presentation, discussion, or action at this meeting. Under no circumstances does the Consent Agenda alter any requirements under Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, Texas Open Meetings Act. 1. Presentation, Discussion, and Possible Action regarding the Approval of the Board Minutes Summary for the Board Meeting held on January 16, 2025 CONSENT ITEMS ACTION ITEMS 2. Presentation, Discussion, and Possible Action regarding Resolution No. 02878: Approval of the revised Utility Allowance Schedules for the HCV Program 3. Presentation, Discussion and Possible Action regarding Resolution No: 02879: Approval of Revisions to the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual of the Housing Authority of the City of Austin 4. Presentation, Discussion, and Possible Action on Resolution No. 02880 by the Board of Commissioners of the Housing Authority of the City of Austin (the “Authority”) to take the following actions with regard to the Bridge at Iron Rock Ranch Apartments (the “Development”) in Austin, Texas: (i) acquire the site of the Development; (ii) lease the Development site to the owner of the Development; and (iii) such other actions necessary or convenient to carry out this Resolution 5. Presentation, Discussion and Possible Action regarding Resolution No: 02882: Approval of renewal of Employee Medical, Vision, and Dental Insurance with United Healthcare EXECUTIVE SESSION The Board may go into Executive Session (close its meeting to the public) Pursuant to: a. 551.071, Texas Gov't Code, consultations with Attorney regarding legal advice, pending or contemplated litigation; or a settlement offer; b. 551.072, Texas Gov't Code, discussion about the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property; c. 551.074, Texas Gov't Code, discuss the appointment, employment, evaluation, reassignment, duties, discipline, or dismissal of a public officer or employee; or to hear a complaint or charge against an …
