Asian American Quality of Life 2025 Shetal Vohra-Gupta, Ph.D., MSW, Assistant Professor Cheng Chow, MPhil, PhD Student Steve Hicks School of Social Work The University of Texas at Austin Asian American Quality of Life 2015 Proposed project – A pilot study • A1: Identify primary health concerns and barriers to healthcare access among Asian population. • A2: Refine the Asian American Quality of Life (AAQoL) Survey to better capture health, social, and cultural dynamics. • A3: Pilot the updated AAQoL acorss Asian subgroups in Austin to reflect health needs and inform future policy and resource allocation. Stage 1 Qualitative: Interviews with key informants and community members Stage II Quantitative: An updated AAQoL survey among community members Large- scale studies Interventions Policy advocacy Asian American Quality of Life 2025 City of Austin AAQoL Commission Survey Development UT Austin Research Team Key Informant Interviews Validated Questions from UT Research Team • • Content based on prior studies, pilot results, and validated instruments Examples of domains: acculturation, healthcare access, chronic conditions, discrimination IRB-reviewed and methodologically sound • Validated Questions from UT Research Team Emerging Themes from KIIs • • • Purpose: Address local gaps and community-relevant issues Summary of informants: Health professionals, service providers, community leaders Examples of emerging themes: – Language barriers in telehealth – Culturally competent care – Immigration-related stress Emerging Themes from KIIs – Sample AAQoL Advisory Commission Review • Role: Ensure alignment with Commission priorities • • Value: Ensures relevance, cultural appropriateness, and civic accountability Engagement: Presentation, feedback, iterative revisions Asian American Quality of Life 2025 AAQoL priorities City of Austin AAQoL Commission Survey Development Academic validation UT Austin Research Team Key Informant Interviews Community experts Research Funding • David’s Center for Health Promotion & Disease Prevention Research in Underserved Populations (St. David’s CHPR), School of Nursing, The University of Texas at Austin ($25,000) • Health Communication Scholars Program, Moody College of Communication, The University of Texas at Austin ($25,00) • Funding Recommendations submitted by the AAQoL Advisory Commission Research Team Next Steps • Finalize instruments and translations • Continue KIIs with Commission recommendations • Key contact person with the Commission • Community rollout • Timeline to fielding and reporting Thank You! Shetal Vohra-Gupta: sgupta@austin.utexas.edu Cheng Chow: chengchow@utexas.edu Steve Hicks School of Social Work The University of Texas at Austin
Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes May 20, 2025 Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Regular Meeting Minutes Tuesday, May 20, 2025 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the City of Austin, Permitting and Development Center, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Sin called the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:08 p.m. COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE: Seonhye “Sonny” Sin, Chair Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Zachary Dolling Hailey Easley Ahmed Moledina Pierre Nguyễn Alpha Shrestha Nirali Thakkar COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY: Sarah Chen Sarah Xiyi Chen Nayer Sikder PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on April 15, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of April 15, 2025, were approved with an amendment to correct spelling on Chair Sin’s title and Commissioners Sikder’s name on Commissioner Nguyễn’s motion, Commissioner Shrestha’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioners Huang, Li, Sha, and Yang were absent. 1 Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes May 20, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Briefing regarding the strategic plan for the new Office of Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment. Briefing by Angela Means; Director; Office of Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment. The presentation was made by Angela Means; Director; Office of Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. Discussion regarding the progress and impact of the 2025 Texas Legislative Session bills affecting Joint Inclusion Committee member commissions. Discussion was held. Discussion regarding updates and invitation lists for the July meeting between local Asian American leaders and the City Manager’s Office. Discussion was held. Discussion regarding how the commission can advocate for and track progress on approved recommendations. Discussion was held. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. Discussion and possible action to update the membership of the Budget Engagement, Asian American Resource Center, and City Manager’s Office Meeting working groups. The motion to approve updating the membership of the Asian American Resource Center members to add Commissioners Shrestha and Thakkar and remove Commissioner Easley was approved on Vice Chair Jambulapati’s motion, Commissioner Nguyễn’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Xiyi Chen was off the dais. Commissioners Huang, Li, Sha, and Yang were absent. Discussion and possible action to form a working group to develop a …
Austin Water Conservation Potential Resource Management Commission Paul Robbins • July 17, 2025 Item 6 With Maximum Drought, Global Warming, Sedimentation, and increasing population, the Highland Lakes could be dry by 2040 Average temperatures have spike since 2009. Heat and drought influenced water conservation policy. On June 15, 2025, the Lakes Were Only 53% Full. Watering restrictions, building codes, efficiency mandates, education programs, and higher water costs have contributed to dramatic reductions in per capita water use. Some assume it can go no lower. New Programs and Strategies COMMERCIAL IRRIGATION RATES Other Texas Cities 12 to 122% Higher Than Normal Commercial Rates Austin 2% Discount Originally recommended in 2007 COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPE REBATES In Austin, Residential landscape rebates are very expensive and rarely used. Commercial landscapes use 9 X as much water as Residential, and retrofits may be more cost effective – particularly coupled with high irrigation rates. COMMERCIAL INSPECTION FINES Landscapes since 2014 Car Washes since 2014 Cooling Towers since 2018 20% Non-Compliance – 68 Million Gallons/Year AGGRESSIVE REBATE PROGRAM FOR COMMERCIAL CLOTHES WASHERS AND DISHWASHERS About 10,000 Commercial Clothes Washers and Dishwashers in Austin. Clothes Washers: as much as 69% savings Dishwashers: as much as 75% savings But almost no rebates between 2021 and 2024. BUCKS FOR BUSINESS COMMERCIAL REBATE PROGRAM Replacing toilets in volume Poor participation in recent years until new staff person and third-party vendor. 24 million gallons saved in 2024, 6 X the previous 3 years combined Recycling car wash water MANDATORY TOILET CHANGEOUT 140,000 old units left in 2012. Retrofits should be required. Originally recommended in 2007 MANDATORY SOIL DEPTH IN NEW SUBDIVISIONS Placing 6 inches of soil on disturbed ground enhances moisture retention (like a sponge) Originally recommended in 2007 OLD PIPE REPLACEMENT In 2023, 12.5% of Austin’s water leaked. Most was from old cast iron and polybutylene pipe. It has been getting worse since 2007. Replacing cast iron and PB would require $1.6 billion in overnight costs. Not cost effective unless viewed on a 100-year timeline. • Savings from water processing cost. • Savings avoiding new treatment plant capital and O&M costs. • Savings from new water purchases. Ductile Iron Stainless Steel RECLAIMED WATER Despite the number of reclaimed water customers growing by almost 4 times since 2011, the actual volume sold has remained the same. Only 6% reclaimed. But at full potential, it could supply 715,000 Austinites. Building a new reclaimed water …
Atmos Energy, Mid-Tex Division For Austin Resource Management Commission June 17, 2025 Item 5 Atmos Energy (Mid-Tex) Service Territory – Austin, TX I W E V R E V O I W E V R E V O Cities in the Atmos Texas Municipalities (ATM) Coalition Austin Fredericksburg Lampasas Balch Springs Gatesville Bandera Blooming Grove Burnet Cameron Cedar Park Clifton Commerce Goldthwaite Granbury Greenville Groesbeck Hamilton Heath Henrietta Leander Longview Marble Falls Mart Mexia Olney Pflugerville Point Copperas Cove Hickory Creek Princeton Corsicana Electra Hico Hillsboro Ranger Rice Riesel Rockdale Rogers Round Rock San Angelo Sanger Somerville Star Harbor Trinidad Whitney I W E V R E V O Austin, TX Service Territory Atmos Energy Mid-Tex Division BY THE NUMBERS 11,019 Customers 120 Miles of Pipeline 125 Employees $226,895 Charitable Giving I W E V R E V O Mid-Tex Division BY THE NUMBERS 1.8 Million Customers 32,827 Miles of Pipeline 1,978 Employees 550 $1.4 Billion FY24 Capital Investment $8.8 Million Communities Served Charitable Giving Y T E F A S Safety Drives Everything We Do Our vision is to be the safest provider of natural gas services, and we are doing our part to modernize the nation’s aging natural gas delivery network. Over the last 10 years, we have invested more than $10 billion to modernize our pipeline infrastructure and have committed to spending approximately $24 billion over the next five years. Y T E F A S Training for Safe Operations Atmos Energy field employees receive extensive in-person, virtual, and hands-on training and participate in our Pipeline Safety Management System that provides continuous feedback. 9,000 Hours spent on safety training across the enterprise in FY23. 2 Million+ Hours of training at the Charles K. Vaughan Center since its opening in 2010. Y T E F A S M E T S Y S Reducing Third-Party Pipeline Damage Safe digging starts with calling 811 to have underground utility- owned lines located and marked. It’s free. It keeps you safe. It’s the law. Call 811 Before You Dig • Natural gas safety is a partnership, so we want everyone to understand the importance of calling 811 before building a deck, planting a tree, installing a fence, or digging for any other project. • The most common cause of outside natural gas leaks is excavation that damages natural gas pipelines. APWA Uniform Color for Marking Underground Utility Lines Red: Electric Yellow: …
Arts Commission Community Interest Announcement ACME Listening Session June 17th 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Austin, TX 78752 A quorum of Commission members may be present. No action will be taken, and no Commission business will occur. Jesus Varela (512) 974-2444
Austin Water Conservation Potential Resource Management Commission Paul Robbins • July 17, 2025 Item 6, V2 Stress on Highland Lakes Water Supply Lake Levels Adjusted for 1950s Drought Lake Levels Adjusted for 1950s and 1700s Drought Lake Levels Adjusted for Drought and worst global warming scenario Sedimentation Met Demand 2023 2030 2040 2050 2060 2070 2080 Water Supply Left/Unmet Demand t e e F - e r c A 1,400,000 1,200,000 1,000,000 800,000 600,000 400,000 200,000 0 -200,000 -400,000 -600,000 With Maximum Drought, Global Warming, Sedimentation, and increasing population, the Highland Lakes could be dry by 2040 Average temperatures have spike since 2009. Heat and drought influenced water conservation policy. On June 15, 2025, the Lakes Were Only 53% Full. Watering restrictions, building codes, efficiency mandates, rebates, education programs, and higher water costs have contributed to dramatic reductions in per capita water use. Some assume it can go no lower. New Programs and Strategies COMMERCIAL IRRIGATION RATES Other Texas Cities 12 to 122% Higher Than Normal Commercial Rates Austin 2% Discount Originally recommended in 2007 COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPE REBATES In Austin, Residential landscape rebates are very expensive and rarely used. Commercial landscapes use 9 X as much water as Residential, so retrofits may be more cost effective – particularly coupled with high irrigation rates. COMMERCIAL INSPECTION FINES Landscapes since 2014 Car Washes since 2014 Cooling Towers since 2018 20% Non-Compliance – 68 Million Gallons/Year AGGRESSIVE REBATE PROGRAM FOR COMMERCIAL CLOTHES WASHERS AND DISHWASHERS About 10,000 Commercial Clothes Washers and Dishwashers in Austin. Clothes Washers: as much as 69% savings. Dishwashers: as much as 75% savings. But almost no rebates between 2021 and 2024. BUCKS FOR BUSINESS COMMERCIAL REBATE PROGRAM Replacing toilets in volume Poor participation in recent years until new staff person and third-party vendor. 24 million gallons saved in 2024, 6 X the previous 3 years combined. Recycling car wash water MANDATORY TOILET CHANGEOUT 140,000 old units left in 2012. Retrofits should be required. Originally recommended in 2007 MANDATORY SOIL DEPTH IN NEW SUBDIVISIONS Placing 6 inches of soil on disturbed ground enhances moisture retention (like a sponge). Originally recommended in 2007 OLD PIPE REPLACEMENT In 2023, 12.5% of Austin’s water leaked. Most was from old cast iron and polybutylene pipe. It has been getting worse since 2007. Replacing cast iron and polybutylene would require $1.6 billion in overnight costs. But only $11 million/year is typically spent to replace ≈6 …
Austin Water Conservation Potential Resource Management Commission Paul Robbins • July 17, 2025 Item 6, V3 Stress on Highland Lakes Water Supply Lake Levels Adjusted for 1950s Drought Lake Levels Adjusted for 1950s and 1700s Drought Lake Levels Adjusted for Drought and worst global warming scenario Sedimentation Met Demand 2023 2030 2040 2050 2060 2070 2080 Water Supply Left/Unmet Demand t e e F - e r c A 1,400,000 1,200,000 1,000,000 800,000 600,000 400,000 200,000 0 -200,000 -400,000 -600,000 With Maximum Drought, Global Warming, Sedimentation, and increasing population, the Highland Lakes could be dry by 2040 Average temperatures have spike since 2009. Heat and drought influenced water conservation policy. On June 15, 2025, the Lakes Were Only 53% Full. Watering restrictions, building codes, efficiency mandates, rebates, education programs, and higher water costs have contributed to dramatic reductions in per capita water use. Some assume it can go no lower. New Programs and Strategies COMMERCIAL IRRIGATION RATES Other Texas Cities 12 to 122% Higher Than Normal Commercial Rates Austin 2% Discount Originally recommended in 2007 COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPE REBATES In Austin, Residential landscape rebates are very expensive and rarely used. Commercial landscapes use 9 X as much water as Residential, so retrofits may be more cost effective – particularly coupled with high irrigation rates. COMMERCIAL INSPECTION FINES Landscapes since 2014 Car Washes since 2014 Cooling Towers since 2018 20% Non-Compliance – 68 Million Gallons/Year AGGRESSIVE REBATE PROGRAM FOR COMMERCIAL CLOTHES WASHERS AND DISHWASHERS About 10,000 Commercial Clothes Washers and Dishwashers in Austin. Clothes Washers: as much as 69% savings. Dishwashers: as much as 75% savings. But almost no rebates between 2021 and 2024. BUCKS FOR BUSINESS COMMERCIAL REBATE PROGRAM Replacing toilets in volume Poor participation in recent years until new staff person and third-party vendor. 24 million gallons saved in 2024, 6 X the previous 3 years combined. Recycling car wash water MANDATORY TOILET CHANGEOUT 140,000 old units left in 2012. Retrofits should be required. Originally recommended in 2007 MANDATORY SOIL DEPTH IN NEW SUBDIVISIONS Placing 6 inches of soil on disturbed ground enhances moisture retention (like a sponge). Originally recommended in 2007 OLD PIPE REPLACEMENT In 2023, 12.5% of Austin’s water leaked. Most was from old cast iron and polybutylene pipe. It has been getting worse since 2007. Replacing cast iron and polybutylene would require $1.6 billion in overnight costs. But only $11 million/year is typically spent to replace ≈6 …
ZONING AND PLATTING COMMISION REGULAR CALLED REVISED MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, JUNE 3, 2025 The Zoning and Platting convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001, 301 W. Second Street, in Austin, Texas. Chair Smith called the Zoning and Platting Meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hank Smith Betsy Greenberg Luis Osta Lugo Lonny Stern Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Scott Boone Alejandra Flores David Fouts Taylor Major Ryan Puzycki Christian Tschoepe Commissioners Absent: Felix De Portu PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Jennifer Mushtaler – Consideration of the September 12, 2023, Planning Commission recommendation. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Zoning and Platting Commission regular meeting on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. 1 The minutes from the meeting of May 20, 2025, were approved on the consent agenda on Commissioner Stern’s motion, Commissioner Flores’ second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner De Portu was absent. PUBLIC HEARINGS 2. Rezoning: Location: C14-2024-0159 - Research Park PDA Amendment; District 6 12219 ½, 12455, 12487 ½, 12489, 12489 ½, 12491 ½, 12501, 12515 ½, 12517 ½ Research Boulevard Service Road Southbound, 12220 ½ Riata Trace Parkway, 6511 ½ and 6513 McNeil Road, Walnut Creek and Rattan Creek Watersheds Owner/Applicant: Karlin Research Park Development, LLC, Karlin Research Park, LLC Agent: Request: Staff Rec.: Staff: (Matthew Schwab) Armbrust & Brown, PLLC (Richard T. Suttle) LI-PDA to LI-PDA, to change a condition of zoning Recommended, with conditions Sherri Sirwaitis, 512-974-3057, sherri.sirwaitis@austintexas.gov Planning Department The motion to approve Staff’s recommendation of LI-PDA, with conditions, to change a condition of zoning, for C14-2024-0159 - Research Park PDA Amendment; District 6, located at 12219 ½, 12455, 12487 ½, 12489, 12489 ½, 12491 ½, 12501, 12515 ½, 12517 ½ Research Boulevard Service Road Southbound, 12220 ½ Riata Trace Parkway, 6511 ½ and 6513 McNeil Road, was approved on the consent agenda on Commissioner Stern’s motion, Commissioner Flores’ second, on a 9-1 vote. Vice Chair Greenberg voted nay. Commissioner De Portu was absent. 2 3. Rezoning: Location: C14-2024-0170 - Duval PDA; District 6 5501 Duval Road; 11705, 11755, 11755 ½, 11757 ½, 11781 ½, 11785 ½, 11801 ½, Research Boulevard SVRD NB, 11900, 11900 ½, 11902 ½, 11904 ½ West Cow Path, Walnut Creek Watershed Owner/Applicant: Karlin Duval, LLC (Matthew Schwab) Agent: Request: Staff Rec.: Staff: Armbrust & Brown, PLLC (Richard T. Suttle) LI, LI-CO and LO to LI-PDA Recommended, with …
Austin Water Conservation Potential Resource Management Commission Paul Robbins • July 17, 2025 Stress on Highland Lakes Water Supply Lake Levels Adjusted for 1950s Drought Lake Levels Adjusted for 1950s and 1700s Drought Lake Levels Adjusted for Drought and worst global warming scenario Sedimentation Met Demand 2023 2030 2040 2050 2060 2070 2080 Water Supply Left/Unmet Demand t e e F - e r c A 1,400,000 1,200,000 1,000,000 800,000 600,000 400,000 200,000 0 -200,000 -400,000 -600,000 With Maximum Drought, Global Warming, Sedimentation, and increasing population, the Highland Lakes could be dry by 2040 Average temperatures have spike since 2009. Heat and drought influenced water conservation policy. On June 15, 2025, the Lakes Were Only 53% Full. Watering restrictions, building codes, efficiency mandates, rebates, education programs, and higher water costs have contributed to dramatic reductions in per capita water use. Some assume it can go no lower. New Programs and Strategies COMMERCIAL IRRIGATION RATES Other Texas Cities 12 to 122% Higher Than Normal Commercial Rates Austin 2% Discount Originally recommended in 2007 COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPE REBATES In Austin, Residential landscape rebates are very expensive and rarely used. Commercial landscapes use 9 X as much water as Residential, so retrofits may be more cost effective – particularly coupled with high irrigation rates. COMMERCIAL INSPECTION FINES Landscapes since 2014 Car Washes since 2014 Cooling Towers since 2018 20% Non-Compliance – 68 Million Gallons/Year AGGRESSIVE REBATE PROGRAM FOR COMMERCIAL CLOTHES WASHERS AND DISHWASHERS About 10,000 Commercial Clothes Washers and Dishwashers in Austin. Clothes Washers: as much as 69% savings. Dishwashers: as much as 75% savings. But almost no rebates between 2021 and 2024. BUCKS FOR BUSINESS COMMERCIAL REBATE PROGRAM Replacing toilets in volume Poor participation in recent years until new staff person and third-party vendor. 24 million gallons saved in 2024, 6 X the previous 3 years combined. Recycling car wash water MANDATORY TOILET CHANGEOUT 140,000 old units left in 2012. Retrofits should be required. Originally recommended in 2007 MANDATORY SOIL DEPTH IN NEW SUBDIVISIONS Placing 6 inches of soil on disturbed ground enhances moisture retention (like a sponge). Originally recommended in 2007 OLD PIPE REPLACEMENT In 2023, 12.5% of Austin’s water leaked. Most was from old cast iron and polybutylene pipe. It has been getting worse since 2007. Replacing cast iron and polybutylene would require $1.6 billion in overnight costs. But only $11 million/year is typically spent to replace ≈6 miles of pipe. …
ZONING AND PLATTING COMMISION REGULAR CALLED MEETING TUESDAY, JUNE 17, 2025 The Zoning and Platting convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001, 301 W. Second Street, in Austin, Texas. Chair Smith called the Zoning and Platting Meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hank Smith Betsy Greenberg Alejandra Flores Ryan Puzycki Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Scott Boone David Fouts Taylor Major Lonny Stern Christian Tschoepe Commissioners Absent: Luis Osta Lugo 1 vacancy on the dais. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Zoning and Platting Commission regular meeting on Tuesday, June 3, 2025. 1 The minutes from the meeting of Tuesday, June 3, 2025, were approved on the consent agenda on Vice Chair Greenberg’s motion, Commissioner Puzycki’s second, on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Osta Lugo was absent. One vacancy on the dais. PUBLIC HEARINGS C14-2025-0050 - North Loop Community Commercial; District 7 2302 and 2304 West North Loop Boulevard, Shoal Creek Watershed 2. Rezoning: Location: Owner/Applicant: Cuisines of Mexico Inc. Agent: Request: Staff Rec.: Staff: Thrower Design, LLC (Ron Thrower & Victoria Haase) LR to GR Recommended Cynthia Hadri, 512-974-7620, cynthia.hadri@austintexas.gov Planning Department The motion to approve Staff’s Recommendation of GR for C14-2025-0050 - North Loop Community Commercial; District 7, located at 2302 and 2304 West North Loop Boulevard, was approved on the consent agenda on Vice Chair Greenberg’s motion, Commissioner Puzycki’s second, on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Osta Lugo was absent. One vacancy on the dais. C14-2025-0002 - Cooper Apartments; District 5 7804 Cooper Lane, South Boggy Creek Watershed 3. Rezoning: Location: Owner/Applicant: 7804 Cooper Lane LLC (Stephen Stokes) 7804 Cooper Lane LLC (Stephen Stokes) Agent: SF-3-CO to MF-3 Request: Staff Rec.: Recommendation of MF-2 Nancy Estrada, 512-974-7617, nancy.estrada@austintexas.gov Staff: Planning Department The public hearing was closed on Commissioner Puzycki’s motion, Comissioner Flores’ second, on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Osta Lugo was absent. One vacancy on the dais. The motion to approve Staff’s recommendation of MF-2 for C14-2025-0002 - Cooper Apartments, located at 7804 Cooper Lane, was approved on Vice Chair Greenberg’s motion, Commissioner Puzycki’s second, on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Osta Lugo was absent. One vacancy on the dais. 2 4. Rezoning: Location: C14-2024-0092 - Allred, Riddle, and W. Slaughter; District 5 2205, 2207, 2209 & 2200 Riddle Rode; 2200, 2202, 2206, 2208, 2300, 2102, 2104, 2106, 2108, 2014 …
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, June 17, 2025 RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, June 17, 2025 The Resource Management Commission convened in a Regular Called meeting on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at Austin Energy Headquarters 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723. Chair Charlotte Davis called the Resource Management Commission meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Commissioner Charlotte Davis, Chair; Commissioner Paul Robbins, Vice Chair; Commissioner GeNell Gary; Commissioner Martin Luecke; Commissioner Raphael Schwartz; Commissioner Alison Silverstein. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Commissioner Joseph Gerland PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: General- N/A APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Resource Management Commission Regular Called Meeting on May 20, 2025. The motion approving the minutes of the Resource Management Commission regular called meeting of May 20, 2025, was approved on Commissioner Silverstein’s motion, Commissioner Gary’s second on a 7-0 vote, with Commissioners Farmer, Sasaridis, Zigon absent and one vacancy. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend approval of the Austin Water Capital Improvement Projects located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone for approval to include in the 5-year Capital spending plan as required by Financial Policy #8. The motion to recommend approval authorizing the Austin Water Capital Improvement Projects located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone included in the 5-year Capital spending plan as required by Financial Policy #8 was approved on Commissioner Silverstein’s motion, Vice Chair Robbins second on an 7-0 vote, Commissioners Farmer, Sasaridis, Zigon absent and one vacancy. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Staff Briefing regarding the 2025 Atmos Energy rate case and discussion on policies for future rate case and franchise agreement negotiations by Marija Norton, City Controller, RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, June 17, 2025 Financial Services Department and Freddy Herrera, outside counsel, Herrera Law & Associates, PLLC. The staff briefing was presented by Marija Norton, City Controller, Financial Services Department and Freddy Herrera, outside counsel, Herrera Law & Associates, PLLC. 4. Staff Briefing regarding Austin Water’s quarterly report on Water Management Strategy Implementation by Kevin Kluge, Environmental Conservation Division Manager of Austin Water. The staff briefing was presented by Kevin Kluge, Environmental Conservation Division Manager of Austin Water. DISCUSSION ITEMS 5. Presentation by Atmos Energy regarding Atmos Energy Mid-Tex Division Update by Chris Felan, VP of Rates and Regulatory Affairs and Kelly Biegler, VP of Public Affairs - Mid-Tex Division, Atmos Energy. The presentation was presented by Chris Felan, VP of …
REGULAR MEETING of the ARTS COMMISSION June 16, 2025, at 6:00 PM Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001. 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the ARTS COMMISSION 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 Jesús Varela at jesus.varela@austintexas.gov or at 512-974-2444. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Gina Houston - Chair, Acia Gray - Vice Chair, Keyheira Keys, Monica Maldonado, Felipe Garza, Heidi Schmalbach, Muna Hussaini, Celina Zisman, Faiza Kracheni, Sharron B Anderson, Nagavalli Medicharla 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 Arts Commission Regular Meeting on May 19, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Report of the Art in Public Places Liaison concerning actions taking during the June 2, 2025 meeting of the Art in Public Places Panel by Commissioner Maldonado 3. Discussion on Calder Kamin’s canceled AIPP corridor project 4. Discussion of the City of Austin’s Art Policy goals 5. Discussion on HOT leftovers transparency request for potential emergency funding. 6. Presentation and Discussion of recommendations regarding Austin's support for independent artists and creative workers through its cultural funding programs by Jane Hervey, Founder & Director, Future Front STAFF BRIEFINGS 7. Staff briefing on the Cultural Arts Division contract with The Long Center by Erica Shamaly, Music & Entertainment Division Manager 8. Staff briefing regarding an update on the Hotel Occupancy Tax by Matthew Schmidt, Acting Cultural Arts Division Manager 9. Staff briefing regarding The Creative Reset by Morgan Messick, Assistant Director of ACME 10. Staff briefing regarding update on the Cultural Arts Funding Programs by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor 11. Staff briefing regarding an update on Art in Public Places by Jaime Castillo, Art in Public Places Manager DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 12. Approve the Selection Process Recommendations for the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) Airport Expansion & Development Program …
REGULAR MEETING of the LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION Monday, June 16, 2025, at 6:30 P.M. Austin City Hall, Boards & Commissions Room 1101 301 W 2nd St., Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Commission 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, Office of the City Clerk, at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Commissioner Appointment Kitty McLeod (Vice Chair) District 1 Commissioner Mariana Krueger Katie “KC” Coyne (Chair) District 2 VACANT Steven Rivas Brigitte Bandit Jerry Joe Benson Asher Knutson J. Scott Neal Garry Brown CALL TO ORDER District 3 District 4 District 5 District 6 District 7 District 8 Rocío Fierro-Pérez Alexander Andersen KB Brookins Morgan Davis Taylor Treviño AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Appointment District 9 District 10 Mayor Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder 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 LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on May 5, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Briefing introducing Shafina Khaki and Dr. Lindsey Wilson, to the commission, and an update on the progress of the LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center Feasibility Study Task Force. Briefing by Shafina Khaki, Page 1 of 4 Human Rights Officer, and Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director of the Office of Equity & Inclusion, City of Austin. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion regarding the commission’s adherence to boards & commissions policies and procedures. 4. Discussion regarding commission priorities, including community safety, housing, trans rights, and health; suggestions for alternate topics; and the potential to form working groups on these topics. 5. Discussion regarding how the commission can support queer immigrants. 6. Discussion regarding representation on the commission and criteria used to nominate stakeholder commissioners. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Discussion and possible action to approve a recommendation to televise commission meetings. 8. Discussion and possible action to form a working group to form criteria used to nominate stakeholder commissions and provide a report on …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20250616-007: Televising LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meetings WHEREAS, the City of Austin established the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission to advise the City Council on matters affecting the quality of life, equity, safety, and well-being of LGBTQIA2S+ residents; and WHEREAS, the Commission has seen significant public interest and participation since its inception, demonstrated by substantial turnout at Commission meetings, Town Halls, and public forums; and WHEREAS, many Austin residents face barriers to in-person attendance, including work obligations, caregiving responsibilities, disability, transportation, safety concerns, health risks, and economic precarity; and WHEREAS, televising and livestreaming meetings will promote transparency, accessibility, civic engagement, and ensure that residents unable to attend in-person can remain informed and connected to the Commission’s work; and WHEREAS, given escalating attacks on LGBTQIA2S+ communities at the state and federal level, it is essential for the City of Austin to be visibly accountable and affirm its public commitment to LGBTQIA2S+ protection, safety, dignity, and belonging; and WHEREAS, televising Commission meetings aligns with City Council’s Strategic Direction 2023, the mission of the City’s Equity Office, and longstanding Council commitments to equity, transparency, and inclusion; and WHEREAS, other City of Austin boards and commissions have televised or livestreamed meetings, demonstrating precedent and operational feasibility. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT: The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends that the City Council, in coordination with the City Clerk’s Office, the Communications & Public Information Office (CPIO), and other appropriate departments, take all necessary steps to televise, livestream, and publicly archive the Commission’s meetings using the City’s official public access platforms. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The Commission recommends that these broadcasts include American Sign Language interpretation, closed captioning, and other accessibility features in compliance with the City’s accessibility standards to ensure participation for residents with disabilities. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The Commission recommends that the City Council direct the City Manager to report back to the Commission and City Council within 120 days regarding the feasibility, timeline, and any resources needed to implement this directive. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, May 5, 2025 The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a special called meeting on Monday, May 5, 2025 at 6:30 P.M. at Austin Energy Headquarters, 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723, Mueller Assembly Room. Commissioners in attendance in person: J. Scott Neal (Chair) Jerry Joe Benson (Vice Chair) Brigitte Bandit KB Brookins Garry Brown Katie Coyne Morgan Davis Mariana Krueger Steven Rivas Taylor Treviño Commissioners in attendance virtually: Alexander Andersen Kitty McLeod Chair Neal called the meeting to order at 6:43 PM. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission's regular meeting on April 21, 2025. The minutes were approved on Commissioner Brown’s motion, Commissioner Coyne’s second on a 12-0 vote. Commissioners Fierro-Pérez and Knutson were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation regarding the June 2026 groundbreaking of Family Eldercare’s LGBTQ housing development. Presentation by Oneka Gaskin, Annie Saldivar, Family Eldercare. The presentation was made by Oneka Gaskin, PSH Program Director; Annie Saldivar, Program Manager; and Charles Curry, Board Member; Family Eldercare. Page 1 of 4 3. Discussion regarding whether the commission should take up LGBTQIA+-specific components of larger societal issues, such as immigration or affordable housing, or rely on other commissions to address those issues. Discussion was held. 4. Discussion regarding the development of a handbook for new commissioners, as well as other ideas on how commissioners can become more engaged in non-leadership roles. Discussion was held. 5. Discussion regarding a potential bylaw amendment to add a Secretary officer role. This item was postponed until the June 16, 2025 meeting on Chair Neal’s motion, Commissioner Coyne’s second on a 12-0 vote. Commissioners Fierro-Pérez and Knutson were absent. 6. Discussion regarding the commission’s work over the last year and the strategic direction of the commission, including which issues the commission should focus on in the coming year and whether the commission should have more or less direct engagement with individuals in the community at meetings. Discussion was held. 7. Discussion on how commission meetings are run, including advice for the Chair, Vice Chair, and staff liaison. Discussion was held. 8. Discussion regarding the necessity of working groups and whether the commission has too many. Discussion was held. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 9. Recommendation to the commission from the Task Force Candidate Selection Working Group on suggested candidates to …
