PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20220328-B2-2 March 28, 2022 Summer Camp Staffing Board Member Nina Rinaldi Date: Subject: Motioned By: Recommendation Pursue all available measures to increase staffing to sustainable levels for all summer camp programming. RATIONALE: The Parks and Recreation Board recommends to the Parks and Recreation Department and Austin City Council to pursue all available measures to increase staffing to sustainable levels for all summer camp programming, including but not limited to the following measures: Seconded By: Vice-Chair Richard DePalma 1) increasing pay rates for all summer camp staff; 2) allocating additional funding as needed to the Parks and Recreation Department to fulfill fully staffed summer camps during summer 2022; 3) any other measures found by the Austin City Council or the Parks and Recreation Department to be effective in training and retaining summer camp and afterschool program staff. Vote: Board Member Nina Rinaldi made a motion to recommend Council pursue all available measures to increase staffing to sustainable levels for all summer camp programming; Vice- Chair Richard DePalma seconded the motion. The motion passed on a vote of 10-0 with one vacancy For: Chair Dawn Lewis, Vice-Chair Richard DePalma, Board Members Nina Rinaldi, Anna Di Carlo, Patrick Moore, Sarah Faust, Lisa Hugman, Nancy Barnard, Kim Taylor and Laura Cottam Sajbel Against: None Abstain: None Absent: None Attest: [Staff or board member can sign] 1 of 1
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20220328-B3 Seconded By: Chair Dawn Lewis Date: March 28, 2022 Subject: City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department FY 2023 Operating Budget Motioned By: Board Member Sarah Faust RATIONALE: WHEREAS, the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Board (“PARB”) Financial Committee reviewed the Parks and Recreation Department (“PARD”) Fiscal Year 2023 Budget Forecast and Department Overview at its meeting on March 21, 2022 and the Financial Services Division Under Resourced Service Expectations at its February 28, 2022 meeting and provided PARB with its unanimous recommendations; and WHEREAS, the Parks and Recreation Board finds that the Fiscal Year 2023 Budget items are all necessary in order to strive to achieve the PARD Strategic Direction 23 goals of: activating and enhancing urban park spaces to provide flexible and diverse programming; aligning accessible and diverse programs and services with community needs and interests; ensuring the parks system preserves recreational and natural spaces to serve as a respite from urban life; and expanding and improve access to parks and facilities for all; and WHEREAS; the Parks and Recreation Board finds that the FY 2023 Under Resourced Service Expectations, including: addressing homelessness, safety and security; increasing human resources support; advancing equity; and meeting customer service expectations for condition and quality of parks and facilities as described in Attachment A [Austin Parks and Recreation Department Financial Services Division PARB Finance Committee Presentation Under Resourced Service Expectations February 28, 2022] are all critical needs that are essential to meeting the service expectations of our community and achieving the Strategic Direction 23 goals listed above, but lack resources, and; WHEREAS; the Finance Committee finds that some staff members have not received adequate cost of living increases to wages and are not making a livable wage that is necessary to attract and retain qualified staff necessary provide the services of a functioning parks and recreation system, in particular the temporary and part-time employees; and WHEREAS, the Parks and Recreation Board recognizes the demand for Parks and Recreation facilities, maintenance, programming, and safety measures continues to grow significantly over the past several years and continuing into the 2023 fiscal year; THEREFORE, the Parks and Recreation Board recommends to the Austin City Council: 1) approval of the Parks and Recreation Department FY 2023 Operating Budget as presented in the FY 2023 Budget Forecast. 2) that it provide allocations in addition to the Parks and Recreation Department …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20220328-B5 Date: March 28, 2022 Subject: Code Amendments to the Parkland Dedication Ordinance Motioned By: Chair Dawn Lewis Seconded By: Board Member Laura Cottam-Sajbel Recommendation Support Mayor Pro Tem Alter’s resolution asking that city staff initiate code amendments to the Parkland Dedication Ordinance in City Code Chapter 25-1. RATIONALE: WHEREAS, the Parks and Recreation Board recognizes the unequivocal value that the City of Austin’s parkland and its amenities bring to our community in the areas of health, equity, environmental and economic benefits. The Board also are recognizes how much these spaces are a vital piece of Austin’s vibrancy as our parks, trails, amenities and greenspaces contribute significantly to Austin’s special beauty, lifestyle and appeal; and WHEREAS, the Board also understands that the parkland dedication ordinance fees have provided crucial funding for the acquisition of parkland and improvement of parks; Since 2007, the ordinance has provided the acquisition of over 1700 square acres of parkland, created and improved park infrastructure and amenities, reduced Austin’s park deficiency and improved park access with a focus on equity; and WHEREAS, the Board recognizes the positive impact of parkland dedication fees on residential and hotel developments, but is also aware that there are commercial, office and industrial developments in our community that are located in park-deficient areas and that these developments could potentially contribute; and WHEREAS, in February 2020, the Parks and Recreation Board passed a resolution on the land development code which included a recommendation that commercial properties be included in the parkland dedication ordinance; THEREFORE, the Parks and Recreation Board supports Mayor Pro Tem Alter’s resolution asking that city staff initiate code amendments to the Parkland Dedication Ordinance in City Code Chapter 25-1 to require parkland dedication for office, industrial, and commercial developments. This would include engaging with stakeholders and creating the amendment in a timely manner so a potential fee would be set in the Fiscal Year 2023 budget. 1 of 2 Vote: Chair Dawn Lewis made a motion to recommend that Council support Mayor Pro Tem Alter’s resolution asking that city staff initiate code amendments to the Parkland Dedication Ordinance in City Code Chapter 25-1 to require parkland dedication for office, industrial, and commercial developments. This would include engaging with stakeholders and creating the amendment in a timely manner so a potential fee would be set in the Fiscal Year 2023 budget; Board Member Laura Cottam-Sajbel …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20220328-B6 Date: March 28, 2022 Subject: Austin Rowing Center Agreement Motioned By: Vice-Chair Richard DePalma Seconded By: Board Member Laura Cottam-Sajbel RATIONALE: WHEREAS, Austin Rowing Club (ARC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the sport of rowing in Austin; and WHEREAS, ARC offers a variety of low-cost and no-cost rowing programs for eligible youth and adult rowers; and WHEREAS, ARC has a contract, No. NR120000004, with the City for the management and operation of the Waller Creek Boathouse; and WHEREAS, the contract along with all available contract extensions expire on March 1, 2023; and WHEREAS, the Waller Creek Boathouse may be demolished in the near future to implement the Blue Line light rail identified in Austin Transit Partnership’s Project Connect program; and WHEREAS, the Parks and Recreation Board values, when possible, the continuity of services and programs to the public; and WHEREAS, the uncertainty of the timing of a future demolition and the current contract may impact rowing concessions available to the public. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Parks and Recreation Board recommends to the Parks and Recreation Department Director to either 1) Extend Contract No. NR120000004 until a Demolition Permit application is submitted on the Waller Creek Boathouse located at 74 Trinity Street or a decision is made that the Waller Creek Boathouse located at 74 Trinity Street will not be demolished; and/or 2) enter into a Park Operations, Maintenance and Programming Agreement for the current and future boathouse and related facilities with ARC once an approved Operations & Maintenance Plan is approved by the Parks and Recreation Board and the Austin City Council. 1 of 2 Vote: Vice-Chair Richard DePalma motioned to recommend to the Parks and Recreation Department Director to either 1) Extend Contract No. NR120000004 until a Demolition Permit application is submitted on the Waller Creek Boathouse located at 74 Trinity Street or a decision is made that the Waller Creek Boathouse located at 74 Trinity Street will not be demolished; and/or 2) enter into a Park Operations, Maintenance and Programming Agreement for the current and future boathouse and related facilities with ARC once an approved Operations & Maintenance Plan is approved by the Parks and Recreation Board and the Austin City Council; Board Member Laura Cottam-Sajbel seconded the motion. The motion passed on a vote of 10-0 with one vacancy. For: Chair Dawn Lewis, Vice-Chair Richard DePalma, …
BOARD RECOMMENDATION PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Recommendation Number: 20220328-B6: Austin Rowing Center Agreement WHEREAS, Austin Rowing Club (ARC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the sport of rowing in Austin; and WHEREAS, ARC offers a variety of low-cost and no-cost rowing programs for eligible youth and adult rowers; and WHEREAS, ARC has a contract, No. NR120000004, with the City for the management and operation of the Waller Creek Boathouse; and WHEREAS, the contract along with all available contract extensions expire on March 1, 2023; and WHEREAS, the Waller Creek Boathouse may be demolished in the near future to implement the Blue Line light rail identified in Austin Transit Partnership’s Project Connect program; and WHEREAS, the Parks and Recreation Board values, when possible, the continuity of services and programs to the public; and WHEREAS, the uncertainty of the timing of a future demolition and the current contract may impact rowing concessions available to the public. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Parks and Recreation Board recommends to the Parks and Recreation Department Director to either 1) Extend Contract No. NR120000004 until a Demolition Permit application is submitted on the Waller Creek Boathouse located at 74 Trinity Street or a decision is made that the Waller Creek Boathouse located at 74 Trinity Street will not be demolished; and/or 2) enter into a Park Operations, Maintenance and Programming Agreement for the current and future boathouse and related facilities with ARC once an approved Operations & Maintenance Plan is approved by the Parks and Recreation Board and the Austin City Council. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20220328-4B Seconded By: Koch Date: March 28, 2022 Subject: FY 2023 Budget Recommendation Motioned By: Heimsath Recommendation Allocation of funds to the Historic Preservation Office. See attached document. Description of Recommendation to Council Recommendation by the Historic Landmark Commission to Council regarding the FY 2023 budget. Rationale See attached document. Vote For: Castillo, Featherston, Heimsath, Koch, Larosche, McWhorter, Myers, Tollett, Valenzuela, Wright Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Little Attest: Terri Myers Chair, Historic Landmark Commission 1 FY 2022-23 BUDGET RECOMMENDATION Historic Landmark Commission Recommendation 20220328-4B WHEREAS the City of Austin Historic Landmark Commission was established in 1974 to promote historic preservation activities in Austin and advise the Austin City Council on matters related to historic preservation; and WHEREAS the purpose of the Historic Landmark Commission is to prepare and periodically revise an inventory of the structures and areas that may be eligible for designation as historic landmarks, most recently completed in 1984; prepare, review, and propose amendments to a citywide Historic Preservation Plan, last adopted in 1981; and review requests to establish or remove a historic designation and make recommendations on the requests to the Land Use Commission; and WHEREAS the Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan outlines historic preservation policies for the City of Austin to preserve and interpret historic resources in Austin for residents and visitors, with goals including 1) the inventory and protection of historic buildings, structures, sites, places, and districts in neighborhoods throughout the city; and 2) the retention of the character of locally designated historic districts and National Register districts by ensuring development is compatible with the historic character of the districts; and WHEREAS Strategic Direction 2023 includes the honoring and preservation of historical and ethnic heritage as an indicator category, with strategies that include protecting places that reflect Austin’s diverse history and broadening support for and participation in preserving underrepresented histories and resources; and WHEREAS Austin has transformed since the existing Historic Preservation Plan was adopted in 1981, including a tripling of the city’s population, passage of a historic district ordinance, urgent challenges around affordability and sustainability, a booming real estate market driving high development and demolition pressures, and displacement threats to longstanding residents, especially in East Austin neighborhoods historically home to communities of color; and WHEREAS the historic preservation field has also transformed in the last 40 years, with equity, sustainability, and cultural heritage as leading factors guiding preservation efforts, and …
DESIGN COMMISSION Monday, February 28, 2022 6:00 PM Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions, Room 1101 301 W. 2nd St., Austin, TX 78701 Meeting Minutes Call to order by: Chair D. Carroll at 6:16 p.m. Member List David Carroll – Chair (District 1) Jessica Rollason – Vice-Chair (District 7) Jon Salinas (District 2) Samuel Franco (District 3) Josue Meiners (District 4) Evan Taniguchi (Mayor) P A P P P P P Melissa Hanao-Robledo (District 5) P A A A Jen Weaver (District 6) Aan Coleman (District 8) Bart Whatley (District 9) Ben Luckens (District 10) “P” Denote Commission Members who were in present “A” Denote Commission Members who were absent CITY OF AUSTIN HOUSING AND PLANNING STAFF X Jorge E. Rousselin, Executive Liaison X Art Zamorano, Staff Liaison X Gunner Garnos, Staff Liaison CITIZEN COMMUNICATION: . 1. NEW BUSINESS (Discussion and Possible Action): a. Discussion and possible action to evaluate and make recommendations regarding whether the Rainey Street Trail project, located at 36 East Ave., complies with the City Design and Sustainability Standards, for the City of Austin. Applicant(s): Heidi Anderson Charlotte Tonsor and Nick Blok The Trail Foundation. • Heidie Anderson, Charlotte Tonsor and Nick Blok; The Trail Foundation presented and answered questions. Page 1 of 4 • Commissioner J. Meiners made a motion that the project complies with the City Design and Sustainability Standards, for the City of Austin Commissioner S. Franco seconded. • Commissioner M. Haneo-Robledo made a friendly amendment request that in the future to build a formal path if public access is observed cutting through the native landscape Commissinor J. Meiners and Commissioner S. Franco accepted the friendly amendment. The motion was approved [ 6 ayes, 0 nays, 1 Recusal, A. Coleman, B. Lukens, J. Rollason, B. Whatley, absent] • b. Discussion and possible action to evaluate and make recommendations regarding whether the project at 307 and 319 E. 2nd St., complies with the Urban Design Guidelines for the city of Austin. Applicant(s): Dave Anderson, Drenner Group; Larry Speck, Page/; Trent Rush, Hitchcock Design Group; and Jake George, Intracorp. • Dave Anderson, Drenner Group; Larry Speck, Page/; Trent Rush, Hitchcock Design Group; and Jake George, Intracorp presented and answered questions. • Commissioner M. Haneo-Robledo made a motion that the project complies with the Urban Design Guidelines for the City of Austin Commissioner J. Weaver seconded. • The motion failed [ 4 ayes, 2 nays, 1 …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION #: 20220328-004c1 Date: March 28, 2022 Subject: Asian American Resource Center (AARC) Ballroom Divider Motioned By: Fang Fang Seconded By: Vincent Cobalis AARC BALLROOM DIVIDER DESCRIPTION This recommendation would fund the installation of room dividers in the Asian American Resource Center (AARC) Ballroom. This item is supported by the original Phase 1 Facility Master Plan to accommodate increased demand for mid-sized meeting space. During original construction of building, space was built with metal structure in place for future installation of partitions. The installation of the partitions will allow the ballroom to be separated into two to eight sections of multi-purpose dimensions for increase facility usage and flexibility. This was first proposed by the non-profit that founded the AARC to maximize the use of the ballroom for language classes, and the community continues to communicate the need to AARC staff. The divider would provide more flexibility in meeting the needs of the community. It would also allow for more efficient use of the space by allowing concurrent use by smaller groups. The cost to purchase and install the divider(s) is estimated to be one-time funding of $200,000. If funding is delayed, inflation and the rising cost of materials will likely make this item more expensive to purchase an install in the future. DEPARTMENT PARD/AARC VOTE ALIGNMENT WITH COUNCIL STRATEGIC PRIORITIES Culture & Lifelong Learning: Quality of cultural venues, events, programs, and resources; Quality of lifelong learning opportunities. Government That Works for All: Condition of City facilities and technology; Public engagement and participation; Equity of City programs and resource allocation. For: Kirk Yoshida, Fang Fang, Vince Cobalis, Hanna Huang, Sarah Chen, Azra Siddiqi, Meena Mutyala, Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan, and Kuo Yang. Against: None. Abstain: None. Absent: Pramod Patil, Pooja Sethi, and Salimah Shamsuddin. Attest: Jeremy Garza, Staff Liaison, Equity Office: x_______________________________
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION #: 20220328-004c2 Date: March 28, 2022 Subject: Community Engagement & Outreach FTE for Cultural Arts Division Program Motioned By: Fang Fang Seconded By: Vincent Cobalis COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & OUTREACH FTE FOR CULTURAL ARTS DIVISION PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Over the past year, members from several different City commissions, led by Arts Commission Chair Castillo, have been informally meeting to discuss issues related to cultural arts finding and facilities. The group members and Chair Castillo have identified a need and opportunity for the Economic Development Department's Cultural Arts Division to have a full-time employee specifically dedicated to Community Engagement & Outreach. Cultural Arts Division program administrators have a full plate of tasks related to executing programs. Having a dedicated staffer, separate from the program administrator role, would allow that person to develop and create deeper connections between the Division and cultural arts community groups. This dedicated position would also help the division better understand the needs of potential cultural contractors that either do not typically access City cultural arts funding resources or are underrepresented in the group of those that do receive funding. In debriefs with EDD staff, the AAQoL Advisory Commission has learned that Asian American groups are typically underrepresented in the pool of applicants for cultural arts funding rounds. The cost is TBD but in the $65,000 range, ongoing. DEPARTMENT EDD/Cultural Arts Division ALIGNMENT WITH COUNCIL STRATEGIC PRIORITIES Culture & Lifelong Learning: Quality of cultural venues, events, programs, and resources; Quality of lifelong learning opportunities. Government That Works for All: Condition of City facilities and technology; Public engagement and participation; Equity of City programs and resource allocation. VOTE For: Kirk Yoshida, Fang Fang, Vince Cobalis, Hanna Huang, Sarah Chen, Azra Siddiqi, Meena Mutyala, Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan, and Kuo Yang. Against: None. Abstain: None. Absent: Pramod Patil, Pooja Sethi, and Salimah Shamsuddin. Attest: Jeremy Garza, Staff Liaison, Equity Office: x____________________________
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION #: 20220328-004c4 Date: March 28, 2022 Subject: Asian American Resource Center (AARC) Staffing Motioned By: Fang Fang Seconded By: Vincent Cobalis AARC STAFFING DESCRIPTION Issue 1: Administrative Assistant The Parks and Recreation Department (PARD), Museums & Cultural Programs has an FY 2023 Under Resourced Service Expectation for an FTE at the AARC. The Commission would like to request consideration and review of this unmet need for the Asian American community in Austin – a full-time administrative assistant at the AARC. A permanent staff member will ameliorate the trend of constant turnover in this position that has been filled by temporary contract staff. Having a stable employee in this position will serve to provide better access to City services for Asian/Asian-American Austin residents. The cost related to Issue 1 is $63,000 ongoing. Issue 2: AARC Unfilled Positions The AARC currently has several vacant positions that remain unfilled: • Marketing Rep A • Cultural Arts Specialist • Admin Specialist (has duties other than front desk) • Facility Manager The Commission recently received word from AARC staff that the City’s Human Resource Department (HRD) has initiated the hiring process for the Marketing Rep A position and the Facility Manager position. However, two other positions remain unfilled with no timeline for future action. With the reopening of the facility and anticipated upcoming City of Austin fiscal challenges, it is imperative that the HRD prioritize the filling of vacant positions at the AARC. There is no cost associated with Issue 2 of this recommendation. DEPARTMENT PARD/Museums & Cultural Arts/AARC ALIGNMENT WITH COUNCIL STRATEGIC PRIORITIES Culture & Lifelong Learning: Quality of cultural venues, events, programs, and resources; Quality of lifelong learning opportunities. Government That Works for All: Condition of City facilities and technology; Public engagement and participation; Equity of City programs and resource allocation. VOTE For: Kirk Yoshida, Fang Fang, Vince Cobalis, Hanna Huang, Sarah Chen, Azra Siddiqi, Meena Mutyala, Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan, and Kuo Yang. Against: None. Abstain: None. Absent: Pramod Patil, Pooja Sethi, and Salimah Shamsuddin. Attest: Jeremy Garza, Staff Liaison, Equity Office: x_______________________________
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION #: 20220328-004c5 Date: March 28, 2022 Subject: Mental Health Services Motioned By: Fang Fang Seconded By: Vincent Cobalis MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES DESCRIPTION The Commission would like to request continued or increased funding of existing Asian Pacific Islander (API) focused mental health services at $100,000 annually through APH’s Health Equity contracting portfolio. For the FY 2020 City Budget, the AAQoL Advisory Commission submitted a budget recommendation for mental health education, outreach, and service provision in the amount of $200,000. This item was funded in the FY 2020 Approved Budget along with a similar recommendation from the LGBTQIA+ Commission in the total amount of $200,000 ($100,000 each). This funding is ongoing. Data from the City’s Asian American Quality of Life Initiative (Quantitative Study) showed higher levels of mental distress and serious mental illness across all of Austin’s largest Asian American ethnic groups when compared to the general U.S. population. In addition, these groups also exhibited low utilization levels of psychiatrists, psychologists, and other mental health professionals (counselors, marriage therapists, social workers). There is no additional cost related to this recommendation unless the City can fund the Commission’s full FY 2020 recommendation amount of $200,000, which would be an increase of $100,000 ongoing. DEPARTMENT APH ALIGNMENT WITH COUNCIL STRATEGIC PRIORITIES Health & Environment: Healthy conditions among individuals (absence of unhealthy conditions); Accessibility to quality health care services, both physical and mental. VOTE VOTE For: Kirk Yoshida, Fang Fang, Vince Cobalis, Hanna Huang, Sarah Chen, Azra Siddiqi, Meena Mutyala, Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan, and Kuo Yang. Against: None. Abstain: None. Absent: Pramod Patil, Pooja Sethi, and Salimah Shamsuddin. Attest: Jeremy Garza, Staff Liaison, Equity Office: x_______________________________
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION #: 20220328-004c6 Date: March 28, 2022 Subject: Immigrant Legal Services Motioned By: Fang Fang Seconded By: Vincent Cobalis IMMIGRANT LEGAL SERVICES DESCRIPTION The AAQoL Advisory Commission would like to recommend that the City increase funding for immigrant legal services. Travis County is experiencing an urgent need for immigrant legal services for low-income immigrants. The latest US Census data shows that 17.8% of the total population of Travis County is foreign born. Many of these individuals are low-income and do not have full legal status. Stress, fear, and heightened anxiety are constant companions for those in the immigrant community without legal status. Anxiety regarding deportation, family separation, and securing gainful employment are widespread concerns. Although many of these immigrants have a pathway to legal immigration status, they do not have the ability to secure it. Navigating a complex and opaque immigration system to secure legal status is often impossible without legal assistance and is cost-prohibitive to many low-income Austin/Travis County residents. Funding is needed to provide dedicated immigrant legal services to low-income Asian immigrants and others in Austin to address the large number of individuals seeking services for deportation defense and consultations. The immigrant Asian population in Austin is diverse and has specific language access needs, and, without additional funding, low-income individuals will not be able to access the protection and services they need. Additional ongoing funding in the amount of $100,000 would provide 50 one- on-one consultations to Asian immigrants as well as take on full representation of one new immigrant case per month. Outreach and education to the immigrant community could also be increased by five additional events. Cost is $100,000 ongoing. DEPARTMENT APH ALIGNMENT WITH COUNCIL STRATEGIC PRIORITIES Safety: Fair administration of justice. VOTE For: Kirk Yoshida, Fang Fang, Vince Cobalis, Hanna Huang, Sarah Chen, Azra Siddiqi, Meena Mutyala, Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan, and Kuo Yang. Against: None. Abstain: None. Absent: Pramod Patil, Pooja Sethi, and Salimah Shamsuddin. Attest: Jeremy Garza, Staff Liaison, Equity Office: x_______________________________
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION #: 20220328-004c7 Date: March 28, 2022 Subject: Community Health Navigators Motioned By: Fang Fang Seconded By: Vincent Cobalis COMMUNITY HEALTH NAVIGATORS DESCRIPTION The AAQoL Advisory Commission would like to recommend that the City increase funding for community health navigator (CHN) services. CHNs are providing an essential service for Austin’s Asian community, which has language access needs spanning multiple communities. Since the pandemic hit Austin in March of 2020, the demand for CHNs has spiked. One-time grant funding has helped meet these needs and allowed for the availability of services in multiple Asian languages, including Arabic, Burmese, Chin Tedim, Mandarin Chinese, Korean, Nepali, Hindi, and Vietnamese. As these one-time funds expire, essential services to vulnerable communities may cease to exist. Navigating the healthcare system can be a challenging task for native English speakers. For non-native English speakers, this challenge can be near impossible to overcome. Yet, accessing adequate health care services, is an essential service that some may say is a basic human right. Community health navigators assist Austin’s non-native English speakers schedule appointments, fill out required paperwork, apply for and understand health insurance benefits, and many more essential services. Austin’s Asian community is diverse with many non-native English speakers. The lack of language access services isolates many Austin residents, preventing them from participating in civic life, which can lead to feelings of isolation. The lack of language access services is especially acute when dealing with healthcare. The inability to access adequate diagnoses and care can lead to a multitude of poor, but in many cases preventable, outcomes. One-time Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) funding through Texas A&M University has allowed the City’s current service provider to hire three additional CHNs focused on COVID-19 outreach. These CHNs have expanded the services provider’s language portfolio to include Mandarin Chinese, Arabic, and Vietnamese speakers. This one-time funding is set to expire on December 31, 2022. The Commission requests funding to cover the remainder of FY 2023 (January 1 to September 30) so that these critical services can continue. Cost is $112,500. DEPARTMENT APH ALIGNMENT WITH COUNCIL STRATEGIC PRIORITIES Health & Environment: Healthy conditions among individuals (absence of unhealthy conditions); Accessibility to quality health care services, both physical and mental. VOTE For: Kirk Yoshida, Fang Fang, Vince Cobalis, Hanna Huang, Sarah Chen, Azra Siddiqi, Meena Mutyala, Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan, and Kuo Yang. Against: None. Abstain: …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION #: 20220328-004c8 Date: March 28, 2022 Subject: Violence Against Asians & within Families Motioned By: Fang Fang Seconded By: Vincent Cobalis VIOLENCE AGAINST ASIANS & WITHIN FAMILIES DESCRIPTION The AAQoL Advisory Commission recommends ongoing funding that enables nonprofits to continue to provide services and other resources to underserved individuals and families, particularly Asians and Immigrants hindered by language and cultural barriers. Few agencies provide services focused on Asian American and immigrants. One such agency, AFSSA, has been a trusted, critical partner in Austin to reach underserved individuals and families for over 29 years. There are few nonprofit organizations in Austin/Travis County focused on the growing Asian and Immigrant populations, the fastest growing demographic in Central Texas, their services clearly align with the City’s Strategic Direction 2023 goals. AFSSA was originally focused on family violence and continues those services effectively, given adequate staffing. Other agencies serving these communities include AACHI and American Gateways. These agencies have been a conduit to bring other resources to families in communities hindered by language and cultural barriers. To meet the growing service demand the City should consider ongoing or increased investments in service contracts for professional human services that address the wellbeing and safety of AAPI and immigrant communities. In 2021 a portion of the funding from State of Texas was reduced and the City Council and Travis County augmented one agency’s funding, with the City adding $200,000 to maintain existing programs and meet the growing demand for services. The Commission recognizes the important role of these agencies serving AAPI and immigrant communities and supports their need for reliable funding to continue to meet the growing need in the Community. The Commission recommends that $200,000 added to the budget to support ongoing or increased investments in service contracts to offset potential federal and state funding cuts. This would enable existing agencies maintain support to underserved individuals and families, particularly Asians and Immigrants hindered by language and cultural barriers. Cost is $200,000 ongoing. ALIGNMENT WITH COUNCIL STRATEGIC PRIORITIES Health & Environment: Healthy conditions among individuals (absence of unhealthy conditions). For: Kirk Yoshida, Fang Fang, Vince Cobalis, Hanna Huang, Sarah Chen, Azra Siddiqi, Meena Mutyala, Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan, and Kuo Yang. Against: None. Abstain: None. Absent: Pramod Patil, Pooja Sethi, and Salimah Shamsuddin. Attest: Jeremy Garza, Staff Liaison, Equity Office: x_______________________________ DEPARTMENT APH VOTE
AAQOL ADVISORY COMMISSION – FY 2023 BUDGET RECOMMENDATIONS SUMMARY Recommendation Status Notes #1 - AARC Ballroom Divider Complete Item also on Museums & Cultural Arts FY 2023 Under Resourced Service list #2 - Community Engagement & Outreach FTE for Cultural Arts Division Programs Complete Estimated cost at $65,000 #3 – Case Management Tool for Behavioral Health Complete but needs APH input (requested) No funding about identified yet #4 – AARC Staffing Complete #5 – Mental Health Services Complete Two issues: Administrative Assistant FTE & current vacancies LGBTQIA+ sent recommendation for continued funding of $100K (no increase) #6 – Immigrant Legal Services Complete #7 – Community Health Navigators Complete #8 – Violence Against Asians & Within Families Complete Added 3/28 RECOMMENDATION #1 – AARC BALLROOM DIVIDER DESCRIPTION 1 This recommendation would fund the installation of room dividers in the Asian American Resource Center (AARC) Ballroom. This item is supported by the original Phase 1 Facility Master Plan to accommodate increased demand for mid-sized meeting space. During original construction of building, space was built with metal structure in place for future installation of partitions. The installation of the partitions will allow the ballroom to be separated into two to eight sections of multi-purpose dimensions for increase facility usage and flexibility. This was first proposed by the non-profit that founded the AARC to maximize the use of the ballroom for language classes, and the community continues to communicate the need to AARC staff. The divider would provide more flexibility in meeting the needs of the community. It would also allow for more efficient use of the space by allowing concurrent use by smaller groups. The cost to purchase and install the divider(s) is estimated to be one-time funding of $200,000 DEPARTMENT PARD/AARC ALIGNMENT WITH COUNCIL STRATEGIC PRIORITIES Culture & Lifelong Learning: Quality of cultural venues, events, programs, and resources; Quality of lifelong learning opportunities Government That Works for All: Condition of City facilities and technology; Public engagement and participation; Equity of City programs and resource allocation Health & Environment: Accessibility to quality health care services; Accessibility to quality parks, trails, and recreational opportunities RECOMMENDATION #2 – COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & OUTREACH FTE FOR CULTURAL ARTS DIVISION PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Over the past year, members from several different City commissions, led by Arts Commission Chair Castillo, have been informally meeting to discuss issues related to cultural arts finding and facilities. The group members and Chair Castillo …
AARC Workgroup Notes: 3/8/2022 Attendance: • Kirk Yoshida • Debasree DasGupta • Christina Bies • David Nicks • Schiller Liao • Bianca Xoyamayagua-Galvan • Vince Cobalis Meeting Notes 1. AARC Phase 2 a. Architect (Trehan) and CMAR (Flintco) both executed b. Community Outreach underway i. Close survey 4/3/22 ii. Survey <https://publicinput.com/AARC-p2- survey?mc_cid=0fa8daa183&mc_eid=80e60c7742&mc_cid=dcde27ca69 &mc_eid=aea0d10724> iii. Conduct small group surveys led by facilitators in Korean, Burmese, and Vietnamese iv. Surveys are translated c. Conceptual Design in April, followed by schematic d. Coordinate with Watershed Protection timing 2. Budget recommendations a. Hiring challenges with starting wages b. HR fully staffed to provide assistance c. Have to use regular job descriptions for temps, instead of special class d. Consider funding increase for Carver e. Discussed funding ballroom partitions (previously recommended) f. Budget recommendations will be reviewed by Commission on 3/15 and also forwarded to JIC . JIC will consider joint recommendations on 3/23 g. Submission to Budget Office at end of March 3. Current budget – one-time funding with vacancy savings a. Exhibit lighting b. Internal and external signage c. Replace ballroom chairs d. Bianca to share additional unmet needs submitted 4. NAAO Wall a. Getting quote for plaques that can hold multiple names i. Room for more donations/names b. Request power wash once existing bricks removed c. Stain or paint 5. Hiring Status a. HR – vacancy report b. Intake meetings for Marketing Rep A (joint with MAAC and Carver) c. Exhibit Specialist (Reclass pending to Cultural and Arts Education Specialist) d. Admin Specialist 6. Program updates – see newsletter a. AAAFF collaboration b. Filmmaking series c. CelebrASIA 5/14 d. Senior Meal program – waiting for startup updates. i. Site visit end of month ii. Restart soon
REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, February 28, 2022 HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION MINUTES The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, February 28, 2022 at City of Austin Permitting & Development Center, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive, Room 1406, Austin TX 78752. Chair Sareta Davis called the Board Meeting to order at 5:40 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Chair Davis, Vice Chair Casas, Commissioner Areche, Commissioner Brienzi, Commissioner Garry Brown, and Commissioner Weigel. Staff in Attendance: Andrea Jordan, Investigator, Office of Civil Rights (OCR); Jonathan Babiak, Business Process Consultant, OCR CITIZEN COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. The minutes from the regular meeting of November 22, 2021 were approved on a vote of 6-0: Chair Davis motion, Commissioner Garry Brown second. Voting in favor were Chair Davis, Vice Chair Casas, Commissioner Areche, Commissioner Brienzi, Commissioner Garry Brown, and Commissioner Weigel. Commissioner Breckenridge, Commissioner Jamarr Brown, Commissioner Caballero, Commissioner Griffith, and Commissioner Museitif were absent. 2. NEW BUSINESS a. Presentation by Edna Yang, Co-Executive Director, American Gateways, followed by discussion and possible action regarding an update on the successes of the American Gateways program serving the low income immigrant community and request for support in making immigration legal services a continued priority in the city’s budget for next year. (Davis/Casas) Edna Yang, Co-Executive Director, American Gateways presented to the Commission and answered questions from the Commission. The Commission discussed this item. The Commission took no action on this item. b. Discussion and possible action on a recommendation to City Council related to the City of Austin Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Budget and Strategic Direction 2023: Economic Opportunity and Affordability; Mobility; Safety; Health and Environment; Culture and Lifelong Learning; and Government That Works for All. (Davis/Casas) The Commission discussed this item. The Commission took no action on this item. 1 c. Discussion and possible action on a recommendation to City Council and the City Manager to strengthen policies regarding investigative authority for the City of Austin Office of Police Oversight. (Brown, G./Davis) The Commission discussed this item. Chair Davis moved to adopt the recommendation, Commissioner Garry Brown second. The recommendation was adopted on a vote of 6-0. Voting in favor were Chair Davis, Vice Chair Casas, Commissioner Areche, Commissioner Brienzi, Commissioner Garry Brown, and Commissioner Weigel. Commissioner Breckenridge, Commissioner Jamarr Brown, Commissioner Caballero, Commissioner Griffith, and Commissioner Museitif were absent. d. Discussion and possible action regarding commissioner nominations to the Joint Inclusion …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20220328-B1 Date: March 28, 2022 Subject: Permanent and Temporary Use of Parkland at Govalle Neighborhood Park Motioned By: Vice-Chair Richard DePalma Recommendation The Parks and Recreation Board recommends that the City Council approve the permanent use and temporary use (not to exceed 60 days) of parkland located at Govalle Neighborhood Park and Southern Walnut Creek Trail (5200 Bolm Road.) Total mitigation fee is $67,818. Vote: Vice-Chair Richard DePalma made a motion to recommend City Council approve Seconded By: Board Member Lisa Hugman the permanent use and temporary use (not to exceed 60 days) of parkland located at Govalle Neighborhood Park and Southern Walnut Creek Trail (5200 Bolm Road.) Total mitigation fee is $67,818; Board Member Lisa Hugman seconded the motion. The motion passed on a vote of 8-0 with Board Member Patrick Moore abstaining, Board Member Anna Di Carlo absent and one vacancy. For: Chair Dawn Lewis, Vice-Chair Richard DePalma, Board Members Nina Rinaldi, Sarah Faust, Lisa Hugman, Nancy Barnard, Kim Taylor and Laura Cottam-Sajbel Against: Abstain: Board Member Patrick Moore. Absent: Board Member Anna Di Carlo Attest: [Staff or board member can sign] 1 of 1
