Information is from October 1, 2024– June 30, 2025 Intake Year (fiscal) Dog totals Cat totals Totals Outcome Year (fiscal) Dog totals Cat totals Totals Difference of outcomes - intakes Dog totals Cat totals Totals Cats Adoption RTO/RTO Adopt Transfer Euthanasia Died Missing SNR (former SCRP) Total Dog Adoption RTO/RTO Adopt Transfer Euthanasia Died Missing Total 2025 3869 4649 8518 2025 3657 4239 7896 2025 -212 -410 -622 2025 2542 158 882 192 120 7 338 4239 2025 2324 540 649 112 30 2 3657
June 2025 AUSTIN ANIMAL SERVICES REPORT 1 On May 5, 2025, Animal Services transitioned to a new database for shelter management. This transition is ongoing and has potentially impacted data reporting. Austin Animal Center Data is partially incomplete due to systems transfer. • The live outcome rate for July was 89.24%. • A total of 1,293 animals were brought to the shelter which included 857 cats, 419 dogs, 70 non-dog/cat mammals, 8 rabbits, 7 guinea pigs, and 5 birds. • A total of 530 animals were adopted (169 adult dogs, 68 puppies, 196 kittens, 93 adult cats, and 4 rabbits). • A total of 71 dogs and cats were returned to their owners (RTOs and RTO-Adopt). • On June 1, there were 1289 animals within the ASO inventory. • On July 1, there were 1530 animals within the ASO inventory. Animal Protection Data is partially incomplete due to systems transfer. • Animal Protection Officers (APOs) returned 3 animals to their owners in the field. • Officers handed out 3 fencing assistance applications and implanted 3 microchip(s). • Officers impounded 55 injured animals and 131 regular or sick animals and delivered approximately 62 wildlife animals to Austin Wildlife Rescue. • Officers submitted 51 specimens for rabies testing. We had 5 positive bats, 6 decomposed bats, and 1 destroyed bat. Wildlife Data is partially incomplete and does not include non-coyote wildlife. • There were 18 total coyote related activities (Behavior types include Sighting, Encounter, Incident, and Observation. “Observation” is defined as hearing coyotes howling and finding scat or footprints.) o 11 sightings, 2 incidents, 4 encounter, and 1 observation • Out of 18 coyote related activities, 18 (100%) reports fell within the reported behavior types (sighting, encounter, incident, and observation) o 3/4 encounters (75%) involved a coyote following caller and dogs o 1/4 encounters (25%) involved a coyote not responding to hazing efforts Volunteer Data is partially incomplete due to systems transfer. • 541 volunteers contributed 7,226 hours in June. • • The Volunteer Program held 4 orientations, introducing 141 potential volunteers to shelter operations. The Volunteer Program scheduled 23 Community Service Restitution individuals to perform 221 hours of laundry, dishes and other duties as assigned. • 156 volunteers dedicated their time to volunteer development and onboarding training. 2 • 41 individuals donated 82 hours toward group volunteer service, through dog-walking and general cat care. Foster & Rescue Data is partially incomplete …
Temperature Management KEEPING TEAM MEMBERS AND ANIMALS SAFE AT THE MUNICIPAL SHELTER Robert Golembeski, Operations Manager Pat D’Angelo, Building Services Manager 1 MOVING FORWARD AGENDA 2 HOT WEATHER PROTOCOL Team Member Safety Informing ASO Staff Current Protocol Water And Pools Kennels And Play-yards 3 HOT WEATHER PROTOCOL TEAM MEMBER SAFETY • Canopies recently installed for team members to limit exposure during play-groups • • Water coolers are filled every morning for team members and the public • AAC has over 15 portable fans and air movers for temperature management • Team members are required to take breaks throughout the day • Spreading awareness of heatstroke in people 4 HOT WEATHER PROTOCOL INFORMING ASO STAFF Daily forecast updates sent out in the morning by Animal Care Leads Any possible protocol changes for the day are included 5 HOT WEATHER PROTOCOL CURRENT PROTOCOL • Minimize time walking on pavement and stay in the shade • Close sliding “guillotine” doors on empty kennels • This helps keep the interior cooler • Check for low water in kennels • Report HVAC outages to a lead/supervisor immediately • Monitor for any signs of extreme heat distress and report animals as needed • Extra attention to senior dogs and puppies • Check that dogs are not in exterior kennel • Dogs can be let back out when Leads determine the temperature has cooled enough • Usually after 5:30 PM or when the ground has cooled enough to touch for ten seconds without burning HOTDOG - delicious! - great dog treats! - pill pockets for vets! HOT DOG - dangerous! - radio/report for help! - prevention is key! 6 HOT WEATHER PROTOCOL WATER AND POOLS • Pools are located around campus for medium-large dogs • Volunteers empty and refill pools outside of fenced play-yards • Animal Care empties and refills play-yard pools and drinking water buckets in the morning • Use of pools might be limited if there is a possible outbreak of contagious illness • Other ways to cool down dogs • Gentle stream from water hose • Wet towel or cloth to wipe coat • Wet only the paws 7 HOT WEATHER PROTOCOL KENNELS AND PLAY-YARDS • Interior kennels are cleaned early in the day when temperature is lowest • Limits heat exposure for dogs • Play-yards are covered or have trees to provide shade • Turf in play-yards is sprayed with water from sprinklers …
Community Cats Working Group – Priority Recommendations The following recommendations represent long-standing gaps in operations, safety, and sustainability that should be addressed to ensure program success and volunteer retention. 1. Recommend the development of a standardized communications protocol for SNR / PRC / CCP. To ensure consistent care and to reduce confusion, we recommend that Animal Services develop a unified protocol – across PRC, 311, AAC staff, and the Community Cats Program – for handling SNR cases including an intake “fast lane” for CCP volunteers. A shared SOP will improve outcomes, reduce stress on all parties, and promote transparency and trust for the public. 2. Recommend that the Medical Voucher Program undergoes a financial reassessment to ensure sustainability. We recommend that Animal Services evaluate the current $250 cap on medical vouchers to determine whether it remains adequate given rising veterinary costs. An updated analysis would ensure that the program continues to support Good Samaritans and provides equitable access to urgent veterinary care for community cats. 3. Recommend exploring options for a designated trapper role within the Community Cats Program. We recommend that Animal Services assess the feasibility of creating a support role, either staff-based or contracted, to assist with high-conflict, high-urgency trapping cases. This role would support volunteers in difficult field situations and improve the City’s responsiveness in cases that are emotionally charged such as hoarding, sick, or injured cats. 4. Recommend refining volunteer identification materials to improve visibility and safety in the field. While volunteer shirts and badges have been developed, we recommend ongoing collaboration with field trappers to ensure gear meets operational needs—specifically visibility, credibility, and safety when working in public spaces. Identifiable gear improves interactions with the public and reflects the City’s commitment to volunteer support. 5. Recommend evaluating options for a mobile-friendly volunteer coordination and request tracking system. We recommend exploring tools that allow volunteers to access trapping requests and log activity through a secure, mobile-accessible platform. The current system depends on static spreadsheets and informal coordination, which creates risk and reduces program resilience. A mobile-accessible system would improve response times and create transparency for both staff and volunteers in the field.
Good Fix Working Group Recommendations to Improve Outcomes for July 2025 Clinic Recommendations for Austin Animal Center (AAC): • AAC’s Marketing Team: o Post the clinic in the events section in the Austin Chronicle and ask for free advertising for the event. o Request COTA to promote the clinic on its website and onsite. o Ask Do512 to post on their website and on their social media. o Request more media coverage before and during the event. o Create more variety in their social media posts rather than posting the same digital flyer each time. o Reach out to all contracted nonprofits providing services for APH/HHS with flyers to ask them to pass on to clients and staff (Meals on Wheels, AARC, OutYouth, APH Clinics, etc). Improve search engine optimization (SEO) to drive more web traffic to AAC’s website for the clinic. o ➢ Status: Discussed details of these ideas with AAC’s PIO/Marketing Manager in late June. • AAC’s Community Cats Program: o Ask Good Fix how many community cats they can accept each clinic day and then work with volunteer trappers and community members to fill the slots. ▪ ▪ ▪ Support Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) volunteer trappers. Support Shelter-Neuter-Return (SNR) regulars. Support neighborhoods around COTA with active trapping requests. ➢ Status: Detailed ideas submitted to AAC. • AAC’s Customer Service Team: o Post flyers outside the Pet Resource Center and distribute flyers to everyone who comes to the PRC for any shelter service. Include a link to clinic information in the auto-reply for all shelter emails. o o With help from their IT team, email clinic information to every pet owner who has reclaimed their pet intact from AAC in the past two years. o With help from their IT team, harvest email addresses from 311 requests for the past year and email flyers to those addresses. ➢ Status: Detailed ideas submitted to AAC. Flyers are being distributed to people who go to the PRC and/or the lobby and posters are hung around the AAC campus. • AAC’s Outreach Team: o Reinstate their spay and neuter outreach efforts where AAC picked up and transported owned pets to Emancipet where they were sterilized and vaccinated and returned to their owners. The same program could be done for the Good Fix clinic. ➢ Status: Submitted to AAC. • AAC’s Rescue Coordinator: o Request more comprehensive marketing support from all rescue partners. ➢ …
Communications Framework & 3-Year Public Relations Plan AUSTIN ANIMAL SERVICES Animal Advisory Commission July 14, 2025 Elizabeth Ferrer Marketing & Communications Program Manager 1 Agenda • WHY THIS MATTERS • 5-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN • COMMUNICATIONS FRAMEWORK • 3-YEAR PUBLIC RELATIONS PLAN • TOOLS AND RESOURCES • WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE • HOW THIS HELPS US • QUESTIONS 2 COMMUNICATIONS & COMMUNITY WHY THIS MATTERS Inform our community about who we are, what we do, and why what we do matters Build trust, visibility, and engagement Improve outcomes for Austin area animals 3 5-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN Increases Community Engagement • Bilingual Content • Outreach Events • Video Storytelling • Building Trust Campaign Improves Operational Transparency • Clear communication • Website with dashboard Supports Outcomes Supports Pet Retention • Adoption Campaign • Leverages Partnerships • Resources • “Pets Belong Home” Campaign • Resources • Education Advances Equity Strengthens Internal Alignment • Spanish language messaging • Access-focused tools • Training • Messaging guides • Internal briefings 4 COMMUNICATIONS FRAMEWORK AN OVERVIEW • Mission • Serve every person and pet in Austin and Travis County • Goal • Build trust • Voice • Honest, compassionate, and transparent • Approach • Plain language • Real-time storytelling • Community-centered 5 3-YEAR PUBLIC RELATIONS (PR)PLAN PLAN GOALS • Improve awareness of Austin Animal Services and resources • Expand community presence and engagement • Promote pet retention and responsible ownership • Strengthen equity and bilingual communication • Support consistency with the City of Austin’s rebranding initiative 6 Launch “Building Trust” campaign Create staff messaging guides Coordinate monthly outreach events (ongoing) Develop animal success stories for media pitching Conduct signage audit for City of Austin rebranding initiative Publish first volunteer spotlight feature on social media Design public- facing newsletter and plan content Create informational videos/reels on a variety of topics Finalize new branded electronic content for City’s rebrand launch Begin design and partial installation of fence wind barrier campaign 3-YEAR PR PLAN BUILDING THE FOUNDATION PHASE ONE 7 Publish public newsletter Post Volunteer Spotlights – bi- monthly volunteer story (image + quote or short video) Release bi- monthly informational reels/videos Finalize signage audit and begin phased rebranding- compliant signage Pilot “Pet Resource Pop- Up” kit Design internal newsletter and plan content Develop and launch “Pets Belong Home” flyer and social media toolkit Launch “Pets Belong Home” Pet Retention Campaign Launch “Ask AAC” social media series answering pet- related questions …
ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250714-010 Date: July 14, 2025 Subject: Safety and efficiency protocols with the Austin Animal Center’s Community Cats Program Motioned By: Commissioner Holt Seconded By: Commissioner Huddleston Recommendation The Animal Advisory Commission recommends that the City of Austin incorporate safety and efficiency protocols with the Austin Animal Center’s Community Cats Program. Rationale: Basis for Recommendation: After extensive feedback regarding the issues to safety for volunteers and animals, the Austin Animal Advisory Commission formed the Community Cats Program Working Group to determine solutions that would improve outcomes for animals, the Austin Animal Center and its volunteers, and the community at large. Per the municipal code, the goals of this recommendation are to “promote collaboration between the City and private citizens [...] interested in or conducting activities relating to animal welfare in the City;” “identify proactive, creative approaches to engage and facilitate communication within the animal welfare community;” and “foster and assist the development of animal welfare programs in the community.” Description of Recommendations to Council: The Austin Animal Advisory Commission recommends that Austin Animal Center make the following changes to the Community Cats Program. The following recommendations represent long-standing gaps in operations, safety, and sustainability that should be addressed to ensure program success and volunteer retention. 1. Recommend the development of a standardized communications protocol for Shelter Neuter Return (SNR) / PRC / Community Cats Program (CCP). To ensure consistent care and to reduce confusion, we recommend that Animal Services develop a unified protocol – across PRC, 311, AAC public facing staff, and the Community Cats Program – for handling SNR cases including an intake “fast lane” for CCP volunteers. A shared SOP will improve outcomes, reduce stress on all parties, and promote transparency and trust for the public. 2. Recommend that the Medical Voucher Program undergoes a financial reassessment to ensure sustainability. We recommend that Animal Services evaluate the current $250 cap on medical vouchers to determine whether it remains adequate given rising veterinary costs. An updated analysis would ensure that the program continues to support Good Samaritans and provides equitable access to urgent veterinary care for community cats. 3. Recommend refining volunteer identification materials to improve visibility and safety in the field. While volunteer shirts and badges have been developed, we recommend ongoing collaboration with field trappers to ensure gear meets operational needs—specifically visibility, credibility, and safety when working in public spaces. Identifiable gear improves interactions …
Animal Advisory Commission Minutes July 14, 2025 Animal Advisory Commission Regular Meeting Minutes Monday, July 14, 2025 The Animal Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, July 14, 2025, at Austin City Hall, 301 W 2nd St, Room 1101 in Austin, Texas. Parliamentarian Jo Anne Norton called the Animal Advisory Commission meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Erin Ferguson, D8 Whitney Holt, D5 David Loignon, D10 Jo Anne Norton, Parliamentarian, D7 Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Koby Ahmed, Mayor Ryan Clinton, Travis County Dr. Paige Nilson, D4 Sarah Huddleston, D9 Commissioners Absent: Ann Linder, Vice Chair, D3 Nancy Nemer, Travis County PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Kaitlan Brandstetter – Implementation for ASO’s strategic plan Suzie Chase – Austin Pets Alive! Update Rochelle Vickery– TNR Group Termination Pat Valls-Trelles – Agenda Comprehension and Supporting Rochelle Vickery Julie Oliver- Support Rochelle Vickery, Staff Compliments, and Budget 1 Animal Advisory Commission Minutes July 14, 2025 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. 2. Approve the minutes of the Animal Advisory Commission Regular Meeting on April 14, 2025. The minutes from the meeting on April 14, 2025 were approved on Commissioner Holt’s motion, Commissioner Loignon’s second on a 9-0 vote. Vice Chair Linder and Commissioner Nemer were absent. Approve the minutes of the Animal Advisory Commission Regular Meeting on June 9, 2025. The minutes from the meeting on June 9, 2025 were approved on Commissioner Holt’s motion, Commissioner Dulzaides’ second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Clinton abstained. Vice Chair Linder and Commissioner Nemer were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. 4. 5. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports provided by Jason Garza, Deputy Chief Animal Services Officer and Rolando Fernandez, Interim Chief Animal Services Officer, Animal Services Office. The presentation was made by Jason Garza, Deputy Chief Animal Services Officer and Rolando Fernandez, Interim Chief Animal Services Officer, Animal Services Office. Staff briefing regarding the Animal Services Office’s hot weather protocol by Rolando Fernandez, Interim Chief Animal Services Officer, Robert Golembeski, Operation Manager, and Pat D’Angelo, Building Services Manager, Animal Services Office. The presentation was made by Rolando Fernandez, Interim Chief Animal Services Officer, Robert Golembeski, Operation Manager, Animal Services Office and Pat D’Angelo, Building Services Manager, Building Services Department. Staff briefing regarding the Animal Services Office’s Three-Year Public Relations Plan by Rolando Fernandez, Interim Chief Animal Services Officer, Animal Services Office, Melissa Pool, Interim Chief Administrative Officer, Animal Services Office and Elizabeth Ferrer, Marketing …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Friday, July 11, 2025, 5:30pm Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room #1101 301 West 2nd Street Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch- atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Christi Vitela, 512- 974-2792, christi.vitela@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Conor Kelly, Chair Elisabeth Meyer, Vice Chair Gabriel Arellano Lisa Chang DeLawnia Comer-HaGans Audrea Diaz Mickey Fetonte Jonathan Franks Lynn Murphy Elizabeth Slade Kristen Vassallo AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular called meeting on June 13, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding upcoming events from the Office of Police Oversight. Briefing provided by Cooper Thompson, Community Engagement Specialist, and Sara Peralta, Public Information and Marketing Program Manager, Office of Police Oversight. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Presentation regarding instant ASL Access by Joseph Tsai, CONVO. Update from the Joint Inclusion Committee representatives on the work of the committee from the June 2025 meeting. Discussion of disability access at Blues on the Green. Update regarding the most recent meeting of the Austin Transit Partnership Community Advisory Committee. Discussion regarding the Texas Department of Transportation Civil Rights Division’s 35th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 8. Update from the October 2025 Disability Event Working Group on their most recent meetings and accomplishments. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 9. 10. 11. 12. Formation of a working group regarding the expansion of therapeutic recreation program access and the creation of budget recommendations for therapeutic recreation programs within the Austin Parks and Recreation Department. Approval of the Mayor’s Committee of People with Disabilities 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review Report. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding support for the AWEbility …
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes June 13, 2025 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Friday, June 13, 2025 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular meeting on Friday, June 13, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St. Room 1101, Austin, Texas. Chair Kelly called the Mayor’s Committee on People with Disabilities Meeting to order at 5:33 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Conor Kelly, Chair Gabriel Arellano Audrea Diaz Elizabeth Slade Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Elisabeth Meyer, Vice Chair DeLawnia Comer-HaGans Mickey Fetonte Lynn Murphy Kristen Vassallo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Joseph Tsai – CONVO Access Raelene Gomes – Austin Lighthouse Melinda Crockom - Texas Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular called meeting on May 9, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of May 9, 2025, were approved with an amendment to strike Commissioner Vassallo’s name and insert Commissioner Arellano’s name on items 1 and 5 on Chair Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Vassallo’s second on an 7-0 vote. 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes June 13, 2025 Vice Chair Meyer abstained. Commissioner Comer-Hagans was off the dais. Commissioners Chang and Franks were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. 5. Discussion of funding for the therapeutic recreation program in the Austin Parks and Recreation Department. The presentation was provided by Ivette Gonzalez, mother/advocate of Antonio Hueyopa, District 2 resident and by Sara Carlson, Recreation Program Manager, Parks and Recreation Department, and Evan Kessler, Recreation Program Supervisor, Parks and Recreation Department. Update from the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) representative regarding the latest meeting. Update provided by Chair Kelly. Update regarding the most recent meeting of the Austin Transit Partnership Community Advisory Committee. Update provided by Vice Chair Meyer. Discussion regarding the identification of additional priorities in 2025 for the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities. Discussion was held. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 6. Update from the Candidate Qualities Priority Working Group regarding the review and approval of candidate equality practices within the City of Austin hiring department. Update provided by Commissioner Arellano. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 7. Recommendation from the Candidate Qualities Priority Working Group regarding the review and approval of candidate equality practices within the City of Austin hiring department. Item discussed with item 8. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 8. Approve a Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Recommendation Number: (20270711-XXX): Austin Disability Festival 2025 & 2026 WHEREAS, October 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, it is within the scope of this advisory body to promote disability awareness and inclusion within the City of Austin, and the committee intends to host a small fundraising event at Austin City Hall in October 2025; and WHEREAS, the committee, in collaboration with several other community stakeholders, are planning to host the Austin Disability Festival (“AWEbility Festival”) in October 2026, and continuing annually, to promote accessibility, showcase diverse disability communities, honor local inclusion leaders, and foster American Sign Language (ASL) practice as a unifying element; and WHEREAS, the committee seeks to ensure that these events are successful and represent the perspectives of the residents of Austin. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities encourages the Austin City Council to provide suggestions to ensure the events reflect the diversity and priorities of constituents and other stakeholders, to allocate funds as appropriate to cover festival costs, and to share council members’ personal or professional experiences with disability inclusion or community engagement to inspire festival programming and messaging. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: (Unanimous on a 7-0 vote, 4-3 vote with names of those voting no listed) Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250706-XXX Date: July 6, 2025 Subject: Recommendation to Implement CONVO Access at City Facilities Motioned By: Gabriel Arellano Seconded By: _____________ Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends the implementation of CONVO Access—an on-demand ASL interpreting service via QR code—at various public facilities to improve communication equity for Deaf and Hard of Hearing residents. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Implement CONVO Access signage and QR codes at high-traffic city-owned locations. ● Ensure CONVO Access is available at: ● City Hall ● Police Stations ● Fire Stations ● City Public Museums ● City Public Libraries ● Promote awareness, training, and maintenance for ongoing accessibility. Rationale: This technology allows Deaf residents and visitors to connect instantly to certified ASL interpreters via smartphone, enhancing safety, independence, and access to public services. The system aligns with the City’s ADA responsibilities and equity goals, and can be implemented at a low cost with high impact. Vote For: ___ Against: ___ Abstain: ___ Absent: ___ Attest: ___________________________ Draft
Introduction to OPO October 7, 2024 | 7:00 p.m. Three Goals of OPO • Transforming Accountability • Enhancing Transparency • Building Partnerships Three Divisions of OPO Communications & Community Engagement Complaints & Monitoring Investigations Policy & Research How to Contact OPO A Complaint or Thank You may be submitted online, by phone, fax, mail, or email. Our office hours are: Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Website: ATXPoliceOversight.org 512-974-9090 TTY: 711 512-974-6306 PO Box 1088 Austin, TX 78767 policeoversight@austintexas.gov 1520 Rutherford Ln, Building 1 Austin, TX 78754 You may always choose to remain You may always choose to remain anonymous anonymous when contacting OPO when contacting OPO Save the Date! OPO Open House Saturday, July 19, 2025 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Austin Central Library – Special Events Center 710 W. Cesar Chavez St. Learn more by contacting us! opo.outreach@austintexas.gov atxpoliceoversight.org
Annual Internal Review This report covers the time period of 7/1/2024 to 6/30/2025 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities ____________________________________ (Official Name of Board or Commission) The Board/Commission mission statement (per the City Code) is: The committee is established to encourage, assist, and enable persons with disabilities to participate in the social and economic life of the City, achieve maximum personal independence, become gainfully employed, and use and enjoy fully all public and private facilities available within the community. 1. Describe the board’s actions supporting their mission during the previous calendar year. Address all elements of the board’s mission statement as provided in the relevant sections of the City Code. a. b. Serve as an advisory body to the city council and city manager regarding problems affecting the persons with disabilities in the Austin area. i. Made budget recommendations to City Council to fund disability- related celebrations and devote resources to keep micromobility devices out of walkways. ii. Recommended adoption of the Equity-Based Housing Plan after the program team incorporated accessibility requests from the Committee. Serve in an advisory and consultive capacity to the Human Resources Department and the city council to ensure effective compliance and enforcement of Chapter 5-6 (Discrimination Against A Person With A Disability); i. Met with the ADA Program office and Office of Civil Rights to discuss partnering with the Committee. Annual Review and Work Plan 2024/2025 Page 2 ii. Developed a training for city employees on Chapter 5-6. The Committee is presently working with the City on refining the content. iii. Met with many city departments to discuss their efforts and made recommendations. The Committee met with the APD, Department of Transportation and Public Works, the Aviation Department, the Communication and Public Information Office, the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and the Housing Department, the ADA program office, and the Office of Civil Rights among others. iv. Commissioner Gabriel Arellano participated in an interview panel for the Civil Rights Officer as a member of the community. c. Recommend to the mayor, council members, and the city manager measures aimed at improving the ability of various city departments and contractors at providing service and employment opportunities for disabled persons; i. Our recommendations were primarily at the department level. We made informal recommendations to the departments above during their meetings with the Committee. ii. The Committee formed a working group to develop knowledge competencies around …
Introducing Convo Access to The City of Austin Real-time, user-led access for Austin’s Deaf community Meet Convo Convo is a Deaf-owned access partner, helping cities make real-time inclusion effortless — for every resident, every moment. We empower Deaf communities with intuitive, on-demand sign language interpreting in 10 languages across 5 countries — all led by Deaf leadership. With over 18 million conversations facilitated, Convo is trusted by 400+ agencies, transit systems, libraries, and public offices globally. We work with cities to expand access, reduce interpreting costs, and strengthen public trust — while supporting full ADA compliance. The Problem Many Deaf residents still face barriers when trying to connect with city services. From City Hall counters to transit hubs and libraries, access often depends on: ● Pre-booking an interpreter days in advance ● Minimum-hour charges for short interactions ● Staff who are unsure how to help in the moment These delays don’t just frustrate residents — they create real access gaps, increased costs, and missed opportunities for connection. Access shouldn’t be delayed. It should start when someone’s ready. Our products Convo Access for customers Convo Access puts instant communication in the hands of your Deaf residents — no sign-up, no app download, no waiting. By scanning a QR code with their own device, they connect directly to a live interpreter — in seconds. No hardware. No setup. No scheduling. You can place Convo Access anywhere residents ask questions — at city counters, libraries, bus terminals, police stations, and more. Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Customer scans QR code on their device Requests an interpreter Starts a conversation Our services Employees Guide to Convo Access We make it just as easy for your staff. Every Convo Access deployment includes clear, visual guides that help employees: ● ● ● Understand how the QR code works Know what to say and do when someone scans Build confidence supporting Deaf users in real time Orientation takes minutes — and helps your team provide better, faster service with less effort. Convo Access Convo Access puts control where it belongs — in the hands of Deaf residents. They connect in real time, when they choose, wherever they are — with no wait, no setup, and no gatekeepers. This isn’t just easier. It’s a shift in how cities deliver access. Benefits to City of Austin Convo Access helps the City of Austin become more inclusive, more efficient, …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Recommendation Number: (20250711-011): Austin Disability Festival 2025 & 2026 WHEREAS, October 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, it is within the scope of this advisory body to promote disability awareness and inclusion within the City of Austin, and the committee intends to host a small fundraising event at Austin City Hall in October 2025; and WHEREAS, the committee, in collaboration with several other community stakeholders, are planning to host the Austin Disability Festival (“AWEbility Festival”) in October 2026, and continuing annually, to promote accessibility, showcase diverse disability communities, honor local inclusion leaders, and foster American Sign Language (ASL) practice as a unifying element; and WHEREAS, the committee seeks to ensure that these events are successful and represent the perspectives of the residents of Austin. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities encourages the Austin City Council to provide suggestions to ensure the events reflect the diversity and priorities of constituents and other stakeholders, to allocate funds as appropriate to cover festival costs, and to share council members’ personal or professional experiences with disability inclusion or community engagement to inspire festival programming and messaging. Date of Approval: 7/11/2025 Record of the vote: 6-0 Motioned by: Commissioner Arellano Seconded by: Commissioner Chang For: Chair Kelly, Commissioners Arellano, Chang, Comer-HaGans, Murphy, and Slade Against: None Absent: Vice Chair Meyer, Commissioners Diaz, Franks, Fetonte, and Vassallo Attest: Christi Vitela (Staff or board member can sign)
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250711-012 Date: July 11, 2025 Subject: Recommendation to Implement CONVO Access at City Facilities Motioned By: Commissioner Arellano Seconded By: Chair Kelly Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee the for People with Disabilities implementation of CONVO Access—an on-demand ASL interpreting service via QR code—at various public facilities to improve communication equity for Deaf and Hard of Hearing residents. recommends exploring Description of Recommendation to Council ● Implement CONVO Access signage and QR codes at high-traffic city-owned locations. ● Ensure CONVO Access is available at: ● City Hall ● Police Stations ● Fire Stations ● City Public Museums ● City Public Libraries ● Promote awareness, training, and maintenance for ongoing accessibility. Rationale: This technology allows Deaf residents and visitors to connect instantly to certified ASL interpreters via smartphone, enhancing safety, independence, and access to public services. The system aligns with the City’s ADA responsibilities and equity goals, and can be implemented at a low cost with high impact. Vote 6-0 For: Chair Kelly, Commissioners Arellano, Chang, Comer-HaGans, Murphy, and Slade Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Vice Chair Meyer, Commissioners Diaz, Fetonte, Franks, and Vassallo Attest:Christi Vitela
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes July 11, 2025 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Friday, July 11, 2025 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular meeting on Friday, July 11, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St. Room 1101, Austin, Texas. Chair Kelly called the Mayor’s Committee on People with Disabilities Meeting to order at 5:36 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Conor Kelly, Chair Gabriel Arellano Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Lisa Chang DeLawnia Comer-HaGans Lynn Murphy Elizabeth Slade PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Zenobia Joseph – Public transportation systems in Austin Morgan Clift – Great Strides ABA APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular called meeting on June 13, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of June 13, 2025 were approved on Chair Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Chang’s second on an 6-0 vote. Vice Chair Meyer and Commissioners Diaz, Fetonte, Franks, and Vassallo were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding upcoming events from the Office of Police Oversight. Briefing provided by Cooper Thompson, Community Engagement Specialist, and Sara Peralta, Public Information and Marketing Program Manager, Office of Police Oversight. 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes July 11, 2025 Briefing provided by Cooper Thompson, Community Engagement Specialist, and Sara Peralta, Public Information and Marketing Program Manager, Office of Police Oversight. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Presentation regarding instant ASL Access by Joseph Tsai, CONVO. Presentation regarding instant ASL access from Convo Access provided by Joseph Tsai. Update from the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) representative on the work of the committee from the June 2025 meeting. Update provided by Commissioner Chang. Discussion of disability access at Blues on the Green. Discussed. Update regarding the most recent meeting of the Austin Transit Partnership Community Advisory Committee. Postponed to the next regular meeting with no objection. Discussion regarding the Texas Department of Transportation Civil Rights Division’s 35th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Withdrawn. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 8. Update from the October 2025 Disability Event Working Group on their most recent meetings and accomplishments. Update provided by Commissioner Arellano. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 9. 10. Formation of a working group regarding the expansion of therapeutic recreation program access and the creation of budget recommendations for therapeutic recreation programs within the Austin Parks and Recreation Department. This item was postponed on Chair Kelly’s …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE FRIDAY, JULY 11, 2025, 4:00 PM. AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W 2ND ST. AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Joint Inclusion 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 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, contact Ryan Sperling, 512-974- 3568, ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov CURRENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Primary Representative: Alternate Representative: Justin Parsons Alexandria Anderson Nirali J Thakkar Nayer Sikder Member Commission: African American Resource Advisory Commission Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Commission for Women Commission on Aging Diana Melendez Richard Bondi (Vice Chair) Commission on Immigrant Affairs Melissa Ortega Commission on Veterans Affairs Bryce F Laake-Stanfield Early Childhood Council Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Human Rights Commission LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Alice Navarro Amanda Afifi (Chair) Jeffrey Clemmons Jerry Joe Benson Lisa Chang AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Becky Bullard Teresa Ferguson Miriam Dorantes Vacant Andrea McIllwain Daniela Silva Muneeb "Meebs" Aslam Katie Coyne Conor H. Kelly The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. Recap and discussion of the presentation made by Austin Public Health (APH) to the Equity Action Team (EAT) meeting on June 25, 2025 on the structure, funding mechanisms, and equity implications of APH. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Approve a recommendation to City Council regarding protecting and sustaining local public health infrastructure and equity at APH in Austin and discuss public and council engagement strategy. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please the City Clerk, at 512-974-3568 or contact Ryan Sperling at ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay …
Resolution Proposal: Protecting and Sustaining Local Public Health Infrastructure and Equity in Austin Submitted to: City of Austin City Council Date: XX-XX-XXXX Submitted by: Joint Inclusion Committee WHEREAS, public health is defined as “the science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting physical health and efficiency through organized community efforts,” and serves as the foundation for community resilience and equitable well-being; and WHEREAS, Austin Public Health (APH) provides vital population-level services that protect over 1.35 million residents, including immunization clinics, HIV and STD testing and treatment, refugee health screenings, violence prevention programming, substance misuse support, and neighborhood centers offering basic needs assistance; and WHEREAS, core public health infrastructure funding in the amount of $9,500,000 is currently at risk due to unstable federal funding streams and national-level proposals to reduce or eliminate key public health support; and WHEREAS, the federal political climate—marked by increasing hostility toward racial equity efforts and public health institutions—has created uncertainty for municipalities dependent on federal dollars, putting local public health outcomes in jeopardy; and WHEREAS, local data show clear racial disparities in public health outcomes in Austin, including: • Black and Hispanic children are 5 to 7 times more likely to live in poverty than their White counterparts, increasing vulnerability to chronic illness, food insecurity, and poor educational outcomes; • East Austin residents face significantly higher rates of environmental hazards and urban heat exposure, contributing to cardiovascular and respiratory disease; • Communities of color experience higher rates of chronic illnesses such as diabetes and asthma, which are exacerbated by inequities in access to care and healthy environments; and WHEREAS, prevention-focused public health investments yield high returns, with studies showing that for every $1 invested in public health, $14 are saved in downstream health care costs and productivity losses; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin’s stated values—Equity, Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, and Engagement—demand proactive investment in services that reduce health disparities and strengthen community resilience; THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT: 1 The Joint Inclusion Committee strongly recommends the City of Austin fully protect the $9,500,000 currently allocated to Core Public Health Infrastructure. 2 The Committee urges the City to establish a dedicated $6 million public health reserve fund to ensure continuity of essential services in the event of further federal disinvestment or emergency needs. 3 The City should commit to prioritizing funding for public health programs that directly address racial and socioeconomic health disparities, with transparent …
JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION Recommendation Number: 20250711-002: A recommendation to City Council regarding protecting and sustaining local public health infrastructure and equity at APH in Austin. WHEREAS, public health is defined as “the science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting physical health and efficiency through organized community efforts,” and serves as the foundation for community resilience and equitable well-being; and WHEREAS, Austin Public Health (APH) provides vital population-level services that protect over 1.35 million residents, including immunization clinics, HIV and STD testing and treatment, refugee health screenings, violence prevention programming, substance misuse support, and neighborhood centers offering basic needs assistance; and WHEREAS, core public health infrastructure funding in the amount of $9,500,000 is currently at risk due to unstable federal funding streams and national-level proposals to reduce or eliminate key public health support; and WHEREAS, the federal political climate—marked by increasing hostility toward racial equity efforts and public health institutions—has created uncertainty for municipalities dependent on federal dollars, putting local public health outcomes in jeopardy; and WHEREAS, local data show clear racial disparities in public health outcomes in Austin, including Black and Hispanic children are 5 to 7 times more likely to live in poverty than their White counterparts, increasing vulnerability to chronic illness, food insecurity, and poor educational outcomes; East Austin residents face significantly higher rates of environmental hazards and urban; communities of color experience higher rates of chronic illnesses such as diabetes and asthma, which are exacerbated by inequities in access to care and healthy environments; and WHEREAS, prevention-focused public health investments yield high returns, with studies showing that for every $1 invested in public health, $14 are saved in downstream health care costs and productivity losses; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin’s stated values—Equity, Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, and Engagement— demand proactive investment in services that reduce health disparities and strengthen community resilience; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Joint Inclusion Committee strongly recommends the City of Austin fully protect the $9,500,000 currently allocated to Core Public Health Infrastructure. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Joint Inclusion Committee urges the City to establish a dedicated $6 million public health reserve fund to ensure continuity of essential services in the event of further federal disinvestment or emergency needs and City should commit to prioritizing funding for public health programs that directly address racial and socioeconomic health disparities, with transparent reporting and equitable community engagement built …
JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES FRIDAY, JULY 11, 2025 JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES FRIDAY, JULY 11, 2025 The Joint Inclusion Committee convened in a special called meeting on July 11, 2025, in the Boards and Commissions Room at City Hall located at 301 W 2ND St. in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Bondi called the Joint Inclusion Committee meeting to order at 4:02 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Vice Chair Bondi Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Chair Afifi, Commissioners Commissioner’s Benson, Chang, Clemmons, Laake-Stanfield, Melendez, Navarro, and Ortega. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL There were no general communication speakers. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. Recap and discussion of the presentation made by Austin Public Health (APH) to the Equity Action Team (EAT) meeting on June 25, 2025, on the structure, funding mechanisms, and equity implications of APH. Commissioner Laake-Stanfield provided a review of the presentation made by APH to the EAT meeting. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Approve a recommendation to City Council regarding protecting and sustaining local public health infrastructure and equity at APH in Austin and discuss public and council engagement strategy. The motion to approve the recommendation to City Council regarding protecting and sustaining local public health infrastructure and equity at APH was approved on Commissioner Ortega’s motion, Commissioner Laake-Stanfield’s second on a 9-0 vote. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Commissioner Chang requested a future item and presentation from Austin Public Health and Cap Metro to discuss funding for transportation. JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES FRIDAY, JULY 11, 2025 Vice Chair Bondi adjourned the meeting at 4:32 p.m. without objection. The minutes were approved at the July 23, 2025 meeting on Commissioner Chang’s motion, Commissioner Sikder’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Laake-Stanfield and Navarro were absent.
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN FIREFIGHTERS’, POLICE OFFICERS’ AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES PERSONNEL’S CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION MONDAY, JULY 11, 2025, 10:00 AM HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT’S LEARNING AND RESEARCH CENTER 5202 E BEN WHITE, BLDG. 500 AUSTIN, TX 78741 Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Jolsna Thomas, Chair Mitchell Kreindler Farah Ahmed, Vice Chair Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Matthew Chustz, 512-974-2859, Matthew.Chustz@austintexas.gov. The committee may go into a closed session under the Open Meetings Act, Section 551.071, of the Texas Government Code, to receive advice from legal counsel on any item on this agenda. CALL TO ORDER AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes from the Firefighters’, Police Officers’, and Emergency Medical Services Personnel’s Civil Service Commission Special Called Meeting on June 9, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. 3. Hear and rule on appeal(s) from the Austin Fire Department Lieutenant written promotional examination administered on June 18, 2025, pursuant to the Texas Local Government Code, Section 143.034, and the City of Austin Fire Fighters’, Police Officers’ and Emergency Medical Services Personnel’s Civil Service Commission Rules and Regulations, Rule 7. Hear and rule on appeal(s) from the Austin Police Department Sergeant written promotional examination administered on June 24, 2025, pursuant to the Texas Local Government Code, Section 143.034, and the City of Austin Fire Fighters’, Police Officers’ and Emergency Medical Services Personnel’s Civil Service Commission Rules and Regulations, Rule 7. 4. Discussion and action to approve future meeting dates and times. STAFF BRIEFINGS 5. Staff briefing from the Civil Service Office regarding promotional examination processes, disciplinary hearings, and fitness-for-duty actions. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring …
PUBLIC NOTICE OF A MEETING TAKE NOTICE OF A BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN TO BE HELD AT 1124 S IH 35, Join Zoom Meeting https://bit.ly/43Hh0Cp Meeting ID: 889 0331 8599; Passcode: 189097 Austin, TX (512.477.4488) Thursday, July 10, 2025 12:00 PM CALL TO ORDER, ROLL CALL CERTIFICATION OF QUORUM PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION Employee of the year 2024/2025; Employee of the 1st Qtr. 2025/2026 PUBLIC COMMUNICATION (NOTE: THERE WILL BE A THREE-MINUTE TIME LIMITATION) CITYWIDE ADVISORY BOARD UPDATE CONSENT AGENDA 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. Presentation, Discussion, and Possible Action regarding the Approval of the Board Minutes Summary for the Board Meeting held on May 29, 2025 ACTION ITEMS 2. Presentation, Discussion, and Possible Action regarding Resolution No. 02907: Approval to Renew In-Schools Case Management and Property-Based Tutoring Services Contract 3. Presentation, Discussion, and Possible Action on Resolution No. 02908 by the Board of Commissioners the Housing Authority of the City of Austin (the “Authority”) to take the following actions with regard to Ovetta Rosedale (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 4. Presentation, Discussion, and Possible Action on Resolution No. 02909 by the Board of Commissioners the Housing Authority of the City of Austin (the “Authority”) to take the following actions with regard to Vargas Apartments Phase I (the “Development”) in Austin, Texas: (A) amend and restate the condominium lease covering the site of the Development; and (B) such other actions necessary or convenient to carry out this Resolution EXECUTIVE SESSION If there is an Executive Session, the Board will return to Open Session for discussion, consideration and possible action of matters discussed in Executive Session. OPEN SESSION REPORTS The Board will receive program updates from the President/CEO and other senior staff. ADJOURNMENT "Pursuant to 30.06, Penal Code, (trespass by holder of license with a concealed handgun), …
REGULAR MEETING of the TOURISM COMMISSION BOARD July 9, 2025, at 2:30 pm City Hall Chambers Room 1001 301 W. Second St Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Tourism Commission Board may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Felicia Burleson, (512) 978-1325 or felicia.burleson@austintexas.gov CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Daniel Ronan, Chair, D9 District 1 (vacant) District 3 (vacant) Bishop Chappell, D6 Stefani Mathis, D8 Anna Panossian, Mayoral Ed Bailey, Vice Chair, D5 Greg Chanon, D2 District 4 (vacant) Dan Webb, D7 Cristina Masters, D10 AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Tourism Commission Board Regular Meeting on June 11, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing from Staff Liaison, Felicia Burleson, regarding commission board recent vacancy, deadlines, resources, and updates. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. Presentation by Justus Zimmerman, CEO and Executive Director of the Austin Symphony, regarding the economic impact of the organization on Tourism and the hotel occupancy tax. Presentation by Micah Andress, President of Austin Pride, regarding the economic impact of the organization on Tourism and the hotel occupancy tax. Presentation by Nicole Klepadlo, Executive Director of the Red River Cultural District, regarding the economic impact of the organization on Tourism and the hotel occupancy tax. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. 8. Review and approval of the Annual Internal Review Report. Discussion and possible action to set road map for 2025 Tourism Commission Meetings. Discussion about Tourism Commission Board vacancies. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 9. 10. Update from the AISD Facilities Working Group on new agenda reports regarding the main focus of the working group and efforts for recommendations. Update from the Short-Term Rental Working Group on any new reports regarding the STR’s new focus and efforts for recommendations. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to …
WORKING DOCUMENT: Tourism Commission Road Map August 2025 – December 2025 Agenda Topics, Potential Speakers & Community Presenters Note: All meetings take place on Wednesdays from 2:30pm-4:30pm in City Council Chambers (unless modified by venue availability) 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. August 2025 – No Meeting September 10, 2025 – Museums & Tourism October 8, 2025 – Historic Preservation & Tourism November 12, 2025 – Tourism Snapshot – Where we are and where we’re going December 10, 2025 – Tourism Commission Work Session
Annual Internal Review 7/1/2024 to 6/30/2025 Austin Tourism Commission The Austin Tourism Commission mission statement is: "to provide expertise and recommendations to the city council concerning hotel occupancy tax revenue collected by the city and issues related to and that promote tourism" In the past year, the Austin Tourism Commission, has sought to establish stability as a concerted voice for tourism in the city by inviting and elevating various speakers to provide insights into the interworking’s of: a. HOT tax funding, including the City of Austin and the State of Texas; b. The Tourism Public Improvement District in addressing the needs of tourism in Austin; c. Arts and culture funds as allocated through HOT tax funding, and the efficacy of these program funds; d. The efficiency and recommendations for improvement of short-term rental (STR) regulation in Austin to aid in increasing HOT tax revenue collection, including a recommendation to City Council with a series of suggestions to improve existing enforcement of unregulated short-term rentals in Austin – this year, the Commission continued its partnership with the Mayor’s office and Council leading to significant changes in STR rental regulation; e. Strategies to promote historic preservation and heritage in Austin to the benefit of tourism in Austin, also reflected by the Commission’s endorsement of the Equity-Based Preservation Plan; f. Strategies to promote cultural heritage districts in Austin, including that of the Red River Cultural District for which the Commission passed a recommendation to fully fund the District; g. Strategies to promote cultural venues, such as the Doherty Arts Center Project for the betterment of the local tourism economy, including a recommendation to Council to continue with funding the Doherty Arts Center Project; h. Strategies to promote library and cultural institutions for tourism, such as the Austin History Center and the Umlauf Museum and Sculpture Garden through presentations from various cultural institutions; i. Strategies to promote clean air in Austin bars and tourism venues through presentations from the Austin Public Health Department and the American Heart Association regarding the dangers of vaping in addition to smoking; j. Strategies to track and promote tourism more broadly in Austin, including outlook presentations from Visit Austin and the Tourism Director of the Office of the Governor of Texas; k. The Austin Convention Center Department on the Austin Convention Center Project; l. Strategies to connect infrastructure projects for the betterment of tourism outcomes, including Austin Bergstrom International …
TOURISM ECONOMIC IMPACT OF THE ASO Austin Tourism Commission Meeting | July 9, 2025 PROVEN ORCHESTRA TOURISM IMPACT National Success Models Pittsburgh Symphony $125M Economic Impact 4:1 ROI ($33M budget) 1,900 Jobs Created Boston Symphony $261M Economic Impact 2,400 Jobs Supported Statewide Impact ✓ Downtown Venues ✓ Tourism Partnerships ✓ Community Engagement CLASSICAL MUSIC'S CULTURAL RESURGENCE The Newcomer Phenomenon 46% Under-35s MORE ENGAGED than parents (65% vs 57%) Source: Royal Philharmonic Orchestra 2024 Audience Report AUSTIN SYMPHONY'S CURRENT TOURISM IMPACT Hidden Economic Engine Bastrop (44) Pflugerville (202) Georgetown (197) Cedar Park (210) Round Rock (304) Leander (193) San Marcos (72) San Antonio (78) 2,879 Tickets Texas (50+ miles) 264 Tickets | National Visitors Key Tourism Markets: • Major suburbs: Round Rock (304), Cedar Park (210), Georgetown (197) • Regional cities: San Antonio (78), San Marcos (72) • National reach: CA (42), NY (22), PA (14) ECONOMIC MULTIPLIER EFFECT How Orchestra Tourism Works 3,143 TICKETS (Out of Area) $184 avg Ticket → RIPPLE EFFECT HOTEL + DINING + SHOPPING + TRANSPORT → TOTAL IMPACT $400+ TOTAL ECONOMIC ACTIVITY TOURIST PROFILE • Stay 22% longer • Spend 38% more • Higher repeat visits • 81% college-educated • 55% earn $100K+ GEOGRAPHIC BREAKDOWN: • 2,879 Texas visitors (50+ miles from Austin) • 264 National visitors (42 CA, 22 NY, 14 PA) • International visitors AUSTIN'S MUSIC TOURISM OPPORTUNITY From Classical to Live Music Capital AUSTIN TOURISM ECONOMY $8.2 BILLION ANNUALLY 114 Years Austin's Oldest 200,000+ People Reached 25,000 Students Served Downtown Long Center GROWTH VISION: POPS PROGRAMMING Doubling Our Tourism Draw CURRENT SUCCESS ──────────► 2025-26 STRATEGY Highest grossing films 2X Movie Concerts Out-of-City Draw Enhanced Tourism Appeal FAMILY-FRIENDLY programming extends visitor stays ACCESSIBLE entry point for newcomers (54% of audiences) KNOWN SUCCESS attracting out-of-city audiences GROWTH VISION: BIG NAME PARTNERSHIPS Live Music Capital Integration ROCK & ROLL CLASSICAL ASO: IN THE THICK OF IT ALL HIP-HOP COUNTRY FROM: "Austin's oldest live music" TO: "Vibrant and in the thick of it all" Programming Examples: • Orchestra + Rock collaborations • Hip-hop crossover events • "Music for All" inclusive model PARTNERSHIP FRAMEWORK How We Work Together ASO PROVIDES TOURISM PARTNERS GAIN Proven tourism draw (3,000+ out of area tickets) Authentic cultural experiences that extend visitor stays High-value tourists (2x local spending) Superior spending tourists (38% more per day) 200,000+ annual reach Year-round programming Historic credibility + Cultural tourism marketing modern commercial approach content & authenticity …
Tourism Commission July 9, 2025 RED RIVER CULTURAL DISTRICT About Our ORGANIZATION The Red River Cultural District is a creative community providing authentic Austin experiences through diverse local music, art and food for every fan and guest. In an ever-changing ATX, our nonprofit seeks to PRESERVE and GROW Red River's creative, business, and music scene. As a community rooted in artists, musicians, performers, music venues, cultural institutions and small businesses, the District embodies the soul and heart of Austin. WHO ARE WE 🎸 10+ Iconic Live Music Venues – These independent venues serve as launching pads for local musicians, artists, and performers, fostering talent and keeping Austin’s music scene alive. 🎶 Free, Community-Powered Music Festivals – Events like Free Week (January) and Hot Summer Nights (July) bring over 500+ local artists together each year, supporting not just musicians but also our local creative industry—photographers, videographers, designers, and more. Our events attract over 30,000+ attendees! 🏆 Red River’s Legacy as a State-Designated Cultural District – Recognized by the Texas Commission on the Arts in 2020, our district is dedicated to preserving Austin’s live music heritage for future generations. 🎤 A Stage for Thousands of Local Artists – Live music happens here 365 days a year, creating an essential pipeline for Austin’s grassroots musicians to grow and thrive. 💼 Hundreds of Jobs in Hospitality & Tourism – From bartenders and sound engineers to security staff and operators, the district supports local jobs and keeps Austin’s nightlife economy thriving. PRESERVE + GROW AUSTIN’S MUSIC MILE With a mission to preserve and grow Austin Red River's creative, business, and music scene our efforts are rooted in several initiatives and programs. FREE WEEK HOT SUMMER NIGHTS DISTRICT DIALOGUES CULTURAL CURRENTS RED RIVER DAZE SUPPORTING MUSICIANS + CREATIVES EVENTS About Our FESTIVAL FREE WEEK Free Week (January) Eat, Drink, Celebrate, Live Music. Free Week started in 2003 at the legendary Emo’s (6th and Red River) as a way to keep the club’s lights on and staff working during the dead of winter when business was historically slow. What started as a on-venue annual event grew into a movement rooted in the Red River Cultural District, with tens of thousands attending annually. Free Week 2025 IMPACTS January 3 + 4 , 2025 Live Performances 90+ 390+ Estimated Paid Artists + Performers 2 Nights 19 Participating Businesses 12 Music Venues 14,000+ Festival Attendees 10 Artists, Photographers, Videographers, Designers, …
Annual Internal Review 7/1/2024 to 6/30/2025 Austin Tourism Commission The Austin Tourism Commission mission statement is: "to provide expertise and recommendations to the city council concerning hotel occupancy tax revenue collected by the city and issues related to and that promote tourism" In the past year, the Austin Tourism Commission, has sought to establish stability as a concerted voice for tourism in the city by inviting and elevating various speakers to provide insights into the interworking’s of: a. HOT tax funding, including the City of Austin and the State of Texas; b. The Tourism Public Improvement District in addressing the needs of tourism in Austin; c. Arts and culture funds as allocated through HOT tax funding, and the efficacy of these program funds; d. The Tourism Commission has made significant strides in improving the efficiency and enforcement of short-term rental (STR) regulations in Austin, focusing on increasing HOT tax revenue collection through addressing unregulated STRs. This year, the Commission presented a series of recommendations to the City Council, aimed at strengthening licensing and enforcement mechanisms and refining existing policies. Through continued collaboration with the Mayor’s office and City Council, these efforts have led to significant changes in STR regulation, promoting greater license adoption, increasing revenue, and ensuring a more transparent and sustainable rental market in Austin. e. Strategies to promote historic preservation and heritage in Austin to the benefit of tourism in Austin, also reflected by the Commission’s endorsement of the Equity-Based Preservation Plan; Approved f. Strategies to promote cultural heritage districts in Austin, including that of the Red River Cultural District for which the Commission passed a recommendation to fully fund the District; g. Strategies to promote cultural venues, such as the Doherty Arts Center Project for the betterment of the local tourism economy, including a recommendation to Council to continue with funding the Doherty Arts Center Project; h. Strategies to promote library and cultural institutions for tourism, such as the Austin History Center and the Umlauf Museum and Sculpture Garden through presentations from various cultural institutions; i. Strategies to promote clean air in Austin bars and tourism venues through presentations from the Austin Public Health Department and the American Heart Association regarding the dangers of vaping in addition to smoking; j. Strategies to track and promote tourism more broadly in Austin, including outlook presentations from Visit Austin and the Tourism Director of the Office of the Governor of …
Tourism Commission MEETING MINUTES (10, September, 2025) TOURISM COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 9, JULY 2025 The TOURISM COMMISSION convened in a REGULAR meeting on 9, JULY 2025, at 301 w. Second St. in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair, Ed Bailey called the TOURISM COMMISSION Meeting to order at 2:40 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Commissioners Ed Bailey, Bishop Chappell, Cristina Masters and Stefani Mathis Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Commissioner Greg Chanon and Anna Panossian Board Members/Commissioners Absence: Commissioners Daniel Ronan and Dan Webb APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the TOURISM COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING on June 11, 2025. The minutes were approved at the July 9, 2025, meeting on Commissioner Masters motion, Commissioner Chappell second on a (6-0) vote. Vote was unanimous. Vice Chair Ed Bailey, Commissioners Bishop Chappell, Stefani Mathis, Anna Panossian, Cristina Masters, and Greg Chanon. Commissioner Daniel Ronan and Dan Webb was absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff Liaison, Felicia Burleson briefed on updates regarding commission board resources and updates for commission’s vacancy, city policy and guidelines and resources DISCUSSION ITEMS variety of items 3. 4. Justus Zimmerman, CEO and Executive Director of the Austin Symphony, presented on the economic impact of the organization on Tourism and the hotel occupancy tax. Nicole Klepadlo, Executive Director of the Red River Cultural District, presented on the economic impact of the organization on Tourism and the hotel occupancy tax. 1 Tourism Commission MEETING MINUTES (10, September, 2025) DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and possible action on the Tourism Commission Annual Internal Review Report. a. The motion to approve Tourism Commission Annual Internal Review Report was approved on Commissioner Master’s motion, Commissioner Chanon’s second on a (6-0) vote. b. Vote was unanimous. Vice Chair Ed Bailey, Commissioners Bishop Chappell, Stefani Mathis, Anna Panossian, Cristina Masters, and Greg Chanon. Commissioner Daniel Ronan and Dan Webb was absent. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 6. 7. Commissioner Masters reported on an update regarding the AISD Facilities Working Group. Commissioner Chappell had no new update from the Short-Term Rental Working Group FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 8. 2026 Calendar Topics a. Commissioner Mathis suggest for 2026 calendar to discuss how to improve 6th Street and Parking issues. b. Bring in Developers of current and future development projects. c. City department hosting events that influence road closures. d. Restaurants and rating scores. Vice Chair, Ed Bailey adjourned the meeting at 4:10 p.m. with the motioned by Commissioner Chappell …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMITTEE Wednesday, July 9, 2025 – 4:00PM Permitting and Development Center Conference Room 1401 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, use the QR code or the link on this agenda. For questions, email preservation@austintexas.gov or call Sam Fahnestock at (512) 974-3393. COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Kevin Koch Jaime Alvarez Harmony Grogan 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. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. 2. 2 Green Lanes Graves House Council District 10 Proposal: Rear second floor addition, new construction. Applicant: Norma Yancey 604 Brazos St. Driskill Hotel Council District 9 Proposal: New signage at two facades of the hotel. Applicant: Marcos Crane 3. 4. 604 Brazos St. Driskill Hotel Council District 9 Proposal: Spandrel replacement and new windows at Brazos Street storefront. Applicant: Marcos Crane 713 Congress Ave. Paramount Theatre Heritage Grant Project Council District 9 Proposal: Balcony doors and windows above surface grade; requesting to preserve the doors and windows with minimal replacement. Applicant: Jonathan Humphrey, Austin Theatre Alliance 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 2512 & 2514 Wooldridge Dr. Old West Austin National Register Historic District Council District 10 Proposal: Demolition of existing residence, new construction single-family residence with basement, outdoor living areas, porches. Applicant: CleanTag Permits 1210 W. 12th St. West Line National Register Historic District Council District 9 Proposal: Total demolition of a contributing building. Applicant: Stephen Hawkins 705 Brownlee Cir. West Line National Register Historic District Council District 9 Proposal: New construction. Applicant: David Webber 200 N IH 35 Svrd SB. Palm Park Shelter House Council District 9 Proposal: Restore the original masonry and remove the existing roof, which will be replaced with a canopy. Applicant: Lincoln Davidson 1703 Alameda Dr. Travis Heights-Fairview Park National Register Historic District Council District 9 Proposal: Demolish a contributing building. Construct …
