Austin/Travis County Food Policy Board MEETING MINUTES September 15, 2025 The Austin/Travis County Food Policy Board (ATCFPB) convened on Monday, September 15, at the City of Austin Permitting and Development Center, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Room 1406, Austin, TX 78752. Board Members in Attendance: Lisa Barden, Marissa Bell, Joi Chevalier, Beth Corbett, Hilda Gutierrez, Kacey Hanson, Erin McDonald, Matt Simon, Andy Smith Board Members Absent: Andrea Abel, Nitza Cuevas, Natalie Poulos Staff in Attendance: Edwin Marty (City of Austin), Amanda Rohlich (City of Austin), Angela Baucom (City of Austin), Yaira Robinson (Travis County), Johanna Arendt (Travis County) CALL TO ORDER Vice-Chair Lisa Barden called the meeting to order at 5:15 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Board Member Marissa Bell motioned to approve the meeting minutes from the Regular Meeting on July 14, 2025, with Board Member Erin McDonald, seconding the motion. Minutes passed on an 8-0 vote. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Briefing on Austin-Travis County Food Plan Implementation, Edwin Marty, Food Policy Manager at City of Austin and Yaira Robinson, Assistant Director of Environmental Programs at Travis County. Edwin provided an update that the Request for Proposals for the Food Plan Implementation Collaborative has been closed. The evaluation panel will begin their process shortly. A memo will be submitted to City Council providing updates on food planning implementation. The 2026 bond conversation continues and the task force continues to meet monthly. Kacey Hanson approached the dais at 5:24 pm DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discuss Board Member advocacy efforts. 4. Board discussion of Strategic Planning for next fiscal year. (See back-up materials) 5. Review Board Member assignments a. Edwin Marty to get confirmation on whether the bond process is considering new projects b. Amanda Rohlich to send notes out see if any board members not in attendance have anything to add to the priorities 6. Kacey Hanson made a motion to add the discussion of working groups to next month’s meeting and Marissa Bell seconded the motion. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Discussion and scheduling of future agenda items. October – confirmed joint meeting from OEM and HSEM. Andy Smith will bring back the recommendation for the board for discussion and voting. ADJOURNMENT Lisa Barden adjourned the meeting at 8:01 pm. Minutes were approved at the October 20, 2025, full board meeting on Board Member Andrea Abel’s motion with Board Member Hilda Gutierrez seconding. Minutes passed on a 10-0 vote.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Friday, September 12, 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 Nekaybaw Watson, 512-974-2562, nekaybaw.watson@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 meeting on August 8, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the therapeutic recreation programs being planned and implemented by Evan Kessler, Recreation Program Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation and Rachel Hyde, Recreation Program Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation regarding therapeutic recreation programs their budget needs for more accessible therapeutic recreation programs. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. Presentation by Ann Graham, Liaison, Friends of Elisabet Ney regarding renovation plans for the Elisabet Ney Museum and their plans to make the space more accessible to patrons. Update regarding the most recent meeting of the Austin Transit Partnership Community Advisory Committee. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Update from the October 2025 AWEbility Festival Working Group on community outreach and marketing efforts. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 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. Formation of a Budget Working Group to discuss and create recommendations about the committee’s budget priorities. Approve an update to the membership of the AWEbility Festival Working Group. Approve a Recommendation to Council to allocate funds to cover AWEbility Festival …
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes August 8, 2025 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Friday, August 8, 2025 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular meeting on Friday, August 8, 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 5:40 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Conor Kelly, Chair Gabriel Arellano Kristen Vassallo Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Elisabeth Meyer, Vice Chair Lisa Chang Elizabeth Slade PROCLAMATION Proclamation – 35th American Disability Act Anniversary – Presented by Mayor Kirk Watson PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting minutes on July 11, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes from the meeting of July 11, 2025, failed on Chair Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Chang’s second on an 5-0 vote. Vice Chair Meyer abstained. Commissioners Comer-HaGans, Diaz, Fetonte, Franks and Murphy were absent. 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes August 8, 2025 DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. Presentation from Jetal Bhakta, Pedestrian Crossing Program Manager, Transportation and Public Works and Sheida Carugati, Transportation Planning Engineer, DKS Associates regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plans for Pedestrian Crossings Program and Urban Trails Program. Presentation regarding the ADA Transition Plans for Pedestrian Crossings Program and Urban Trails Program was given by Jetal Bhakta, Pedestrian Crossing Program Manager, Transportation and Public Works and Sheida Carugati, Transportation Planning Engineer, DKS Associates. Update from the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) representative on the work of the committee from the July 2025 meeting. Update provided by Commissioner Chang. Update regarding the most recent meeting of the Austin Transit Partnership Community Advisory Committee. Postponed to the next regular meeting with no objection. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. 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 6. 7. 8. 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. Discussed and the working group formation was postponed until the next meeting. Formation of a Budget Working Group to discuss and create recommendations about the committee’s budget priorities. The motion to approve the formation of a Budget …
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250912-XX4 Date: September 12, 2025 Subject: Marketing Strategy and Distribution of Flyers Motioned By: Gabriel Arellano Seconded By: _____________ Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends developing a marketing strategy, including flyer distribution and social media outreach, with necessary approvals from the City of Austin. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Create and distribute event flyers. ● Develop social media posts to promote the awards event. ● Obtain approval from the City of Austin prior to posting on official channels. Rationale: A coordinated marketing strategy increases visibility, boosts community participation, and ensures compliance with City communication policies. Vote For: ___ Against: ___ Abstain: ___ Absent: ___ Attest: ___________________________
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250912-XX1 Date: September 12, 2025 Subject: Recognition of Three Awardees at Upcoming Event Motioned By: Gabriel Arellano Seconded By: _____________ Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends recognizing three awardees at the upcoming event. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Community Award: ADAPT of Texas ● Government Award: Travis County Services for the Deaf ● Individual Award: Hayley Broadway Rationale: Recognition of outstanding contributions strengthens community engagement, highlights leadership in accessibility, and aligns with the City’s equity and inclusion priorities. Vote For: ___ Against: ___ Abstain: ___ Absent: ___ Attest: ___________________________
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250912-XX3 Date: September 12, 2025 Subject: Request for Official EIN Verification Letter from Financial Services Motioned By: Gabriel Arellano Seconded By: _____________ Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends requesting an official letter from the City’s Financial Services Team verifying the City of Austin’s EIN, to support sponsorship applications. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Direct Financial Services Team to issue an EIN verification letter for sponsorship purposes. Rationale: A verified EIN letter is required to complete sponsorship applications and secure financial support for Committee programming and events. Vote For: ___ Against: ___ Abstain: ___ Absent: ___ Attest: ___________________________
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250912-XX2 Date: September 12, 2025 Subject: Approval of Budget for Awards Event Motioned By: Gabriel Arellano Seconded By: _____________ Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends allocating funds to cover event costs. Description of Recommendation to Council ● 3 Trophies – $200 ● Catering Service – $1,014 ● TOTAL – $1,215 Rationale: Budget allocation ensures the success of the awards event by funding essential items, recognizing honorees, and providing accessibility to attendees. Vote For: ___ Against: ___ Abstain: ___ Absent: ___ Attest: ___________________________
REGULAR MEETING of the COLLEGE STUDENT COMMISSION September 12, 2025, AT 3:00 PM AUSTIN CITY HALL, Board and Commission Room 1101 301 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701 Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by 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. To register please contact Dr. Chiquita Eugene by email at chiquita.eugene@austintexas.gov or by phone at 512- 972-5003. Some members of the commission may be participating by videoconference. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Elisha Mac Gregor, Austin Community College Andrew Lyon, Austin Community College Aidyn Ogle, Concordia University Lorian Lopez, Concordia University Carson Domey, University of Texas at Austin Aidan Cournoyer, University of Texas at Austin Caleb Brizuela, Huston-Tillotson University Dominic Polidor, Huston-Tillotson University Caroline Schilling, St. Edward’s University 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 College Student Commission Regular Meeting from April 25, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 1. 2. Introduction of new commissioners. Update on the status of recommendations 20250425-005 and 20250425-006. 3. 4. Discussion of current working groups and assignment of new commissioners to working groups. Discussion of the creation of a housing working group. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. 6. Update from TRANSPORTATION working group on their priorities. Update from MENTAL HEALTH working group on their priorities. 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 call Dr. Chiquita Eugene at the Youth Initiatives Office, at (512-972-5003), for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the College Student Commission, please contact Dr. Chiquita Eugene at (512-972-5003).
College Student Commission Meeting Minutes 25, April, 2025 COLLEGE STUDENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 25, APRIL, 2025 The College Student Commission convened in a regular meeting on 4, April 2025 at 301 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701 in Austin, Texas. Chair Charlie Mossberger called the College Student Commission Meeting to order at 3:30 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Charlie Mossberger, Halle Kocian, Andrew Lyon, Elisha McGreggor Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Caleb Brizuela, Jacob Hamerslough, Mariama Mbacke, Mariana Ponce PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. The motion to approve the minutes of the College Student Commission Regular Meeting on April 4th, 2025, was approved on Jacob Hamerslough’s motion, Andrew Lyon’s second on an 8-0 vote. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. None DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. None PUBLIC HEARINGS None 4. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Presentation by NAME, TITLE, 3-1-1, presented on how to submit service requests, code violations and other non-emergency issues through 3-1-1. Andrew Lyon was elected chair on an 8-0 vote. Caleb Brizuela was elected vice chair on an 8-0 vote. 6. 7. 1 College Student Commission Meeting Minutes 25, April, 2025 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. The motion to update the College Student Commission Bylaws from a monthly meeting requirement to 4 meetings a year was approved on Andrew Lyon’s motion, Jacob Hamerslough’s second on an 8-0 vote. The motion to amend Recommendation 20250425-005: Renewing College Food Insecurity Grant Program was approved on Jacob Hamerslough’s motion, Andrew Lyon’s second on an 8-0 vote. The motion to approve Recommendation 20250425-005: Renewing College Food Insecurity Grant Program was approved on Jacob Hamerslough’s motion, Aidyn Ogden’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Carson Domey, Dominic Polidor, and Prisca Dhital were absent. The motion to amend Recommendation 20250425-006: Designating Austin’s Public Libraries as “Book Sanctuaries” was approved on Jacob Hamerslough’s motion, Aidyn Ogden’s second on an 8-0 vote. The motion to approve Recommendation 20250425-006: Designating Austin’s Public Libraries as “Book Sanctuaries” was approved on Jacob Hamerslough’s motion, Mariama Mbkacke’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Carson Domey, Dominic Polidor, and Prisca Dhital were absent. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 13. Update from TRANSPORTATION WORKING GROUP: The Transportation Working Group had no update. Update was given by Jacob Hamerslough. 14. Update from MENTAL HEALTH WORKING GROUP. The Mental Health Working Group is interested in having more commissioners be a part of the working group. Update was given by Charlie Hamerslough. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS …
Elisabet Ney Museum VISION : 2025-26 CAPITAL CAMPAIGN FOR MUSEUM IMPROVEMENTS AND ACCESSIBILITY Creating a transformative experience for museum visitors and the Austin community. VISION The museum is more inclusive, accessible, and engaging for all visitors while preserving its historic value. The improvements enhance both the physical space and the visitor experience. PROJECT GOALS PRESERVE To preserve historic Formosa, the world’s largest collection of Ney’s artworks, and key wilderness elements of the property while updating access, safety, climate control, and gathering places. PROJECT GOALS REIMAGINE To use the interpretive and landscape plans in a holistic and forward-looking way, with an aim for sustainability and broadening the experience for visitors to engage with Ney’s life work, artistic process, lived experience, world view, and the symbolism of her story against the backdrop of tomorrow. PROJECT GOALS INSPIRE To make museum visitors feel welcome, inspired, and reinvigorated.
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250912-009 Date: September 12, 2025 Subject: Approval of Budget for Awards Event Motioned By: Conor Kelly Seconded By: Lynn Murphy Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends allocating funds to cover event costs. Description of Recommendation to Council ● 3 Trophies – $200 ● Catering Service – $1,014 ● TOTAL – $1,215 Rationale: Budget allocation ensures the success of the awards event by funding essential items, recognizing honorees, and providing accessibility to attendees. Vote 9-0 For: Chair Kelly, Vice Chair Meyer, Commissioners Arellano, Chang, Comer-HaGans, Fetonte, Murphy, Slade, and Vassallo Against:None Abstain: None Absent: Diaz and Franks Attest: Nekaybaw Watson
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250912-010 Date: September 12, 2025 Subject: Marketing Strategy and Distribution of Flyers Motioned By: Conor Kelly Seconded By: Gabriel Arellano Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends developing a marketing strategy, including flyer distribution and social media outreach, with necessary approvals from the City of Austin. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Create and distribute event flyers. ● Develop social media posts to promote the awards event. ● Obtain approval from the City of Austin prior to posting on official channels. Rationale: A coordinated marketing strategy increases visibility, boosts community participation, and ensures compliance with City communication policies. Vote 9-0 For: Chair Kelly, Vice Chair Meyer, Commissioners Arellano, Chang, Comer-HaGans, Fetonte, Murphy, Slade, and Vassallo Against:None Abstain:None Absent:Diaz and Franks Attest: Nekaybaw Watson
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250912-011 Date: September 12, 2025 Subject: Recognition of Three Awardees at Upcoming Event Motioned By: Gabriel Arellano Seconded By: Conor Kelly Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends recognizing three awardees at the upcoming event. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Community Award: ADAPT of Texas ● Government Award: Travis County Services for the Deaf ● Individual Award: Hayley Broadway Rationale: Recognition of outstanding contributions strengthens community engagement, highlights leadership in accessibility, and aligns with the City’s equity and inclusion priorities. Vote 9-0 For: Chair Kelly, Vice Chair Meyer, Commissioners Arellano, Chang, Comer-HaGans, Fetonte, Murphy, Slade, and Vassallo Against:None Abstain:None Absent:Diaz and Franks Attest: Nekaybaw Watson
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes September 12, 2025 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Friday, September 12, 2025 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular meeting on Friday, September 12, 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 Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Elisabeth Meyer, Vice Chair Lisa Chang DeLawnia Comer-HaGans Mickey Fetonte Lynn Murphy Elizabeth Slade Kristen Vassallo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting minutes on August 8, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes from the meeting of August 8, 2025 on Chair Kelly’s motion with no objection passed on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Fetonte was off the dais. Commissioners Diaz, and Franks were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes September 12, 2025 2. Staff briefing regarding the therapeutic recreation programs being planned and implemented by Evan Kessler, Recreation Program Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation and Rachel Hyde, Recreation Program Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation regarding therapeutic recreation programs their budget needs for more accessible therapeutic recreation programs. Presentation postponed until next meeting. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. Presentation by Ann Graham, Liaison, Friends of Elisabet Ney regarding renovation plans for the Elisabet Ney Museum and their plans to make the space more accessible to patrons. Presentation given by Ann Graham, Liaison, Friends of Elisabet Ney. Update regarding the most recent meeting of the Austin Transit Partnership Community Advisory Committee. Discussion was held. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Update from the October 2025 Disability Event Working Group on community outreach and marketing efforts. Update provided by Commissioner Arellano. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. 8. 9. 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. The motion to approve the formation of a working group to expand therapeutic recreation program access and the creation of budget recommendation for therapeutic recreation programs within the Austin Parks and Recreation Department with Vice Chair Meyer and Commissioners Slade and Vassallo as members was approved on Commissioner Vassallo’s motion, Vice Chair Meyer’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners …
THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Chairperson- Vice-Chairperson- 2nd Vice-Chairperson- Carl S. Richie, Dr. Tyra Duncan-Hall Mary Apostolou Jr. Commissioner- Edwina Carrington President & CEO-Michael G. Gerber HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN REGULAR BOARD MEETING Thursday, September 11, 2025 12:00 PM 1124 S IH 35 Austin, TX Join Zoom Meeting http://bit.ly/45XL9gt 890083 ID: 842 1146 6969 Passcode: Meeting 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 Austin, TX (512.477.4488) Join Zoom Meeting http://bit.ly/45XL9gt Meeting ID: 842 1146 6969 Passcode: 890083 Thursday, September 12:00 PM 11, 2025 CALL TO ORDER, ROLL CALL CERTIFICATION OF QUORUM PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE PUBLIC COMMUNICATION LIMITATION) TIME (NOTE: THERE WILL BE A THREE-MINUTE CITYWIDE ADVISORY BOARD UPDATE CONSENT AGENDA Items on the Consent considered at another not limit the possibility circumstances does the Consent Act. Government Code, Texas Open Meetings appropriate Agenda may be removed time on this agenda. of any presentation, at the request Placement or action discussion, on the Consent at this meeting. Agenda does Under no of any Commissioner and Agenda alter any requirements under Chapter 551 of the Texas CONSENT ITEMS 1.Presentation, Discussion, Summary for the Board Meeting held on August 21, 2025 and Possible Action regarding the Approval of the Board Minutes ACTION ITEMS 2.Presentation, Discussion, regarding and Possible Action Programs Youth Development Resolution Contract No: 02910: Approval of Boys and Girls Clubs to Renew Comprehensive at Chalmers, Booker T. Washington, and Meadowbrook and Possible Action on Resolution Discussion, of the Housing 3.Presentation, Commissioners following acquire Development; resolution actions the site of the Development; and (iii) such other actions Authority to The Everett with regard of the City of Austin (the "Development") (ii) lease the Development No. 02911 by the Board of (the "Authority") to take the in Austin, Texas: (i) site to the owner of the necessary or convenient to carry out this 4.Presentation, Commissioners Discussion, of the Housing and Possible Action on Resolution Authority of the City of Austin No. 02912 by the Board of (the "Authority") approving
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS SEPTEMBER 10, 2025, 6:00 PM AUSTIN ENERGY BUILDING 4815 MUELLER BLVD SHUDDE FATH HALL AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs 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 or in person, contact Nekaybaw Watson at nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-2562. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Miriam Dorantes, Chair Diane Kanawati Alondra Johnson, Vice-Chair Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch Adrian De La Rosa Melissa Ortega Azeem Edwin Aditi Joshi Yohana Saucedo Jeanne “Canan” Kaba Caroline Solis Meghana Roy AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up 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 Commission on Immigrant Affairs regular meeting on August 4, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing by Rocio Villalobos, Immigrant Affairs Manager and DACA Liaison Officer, Office of Equity and Inclusion regarding the Office of Equity and Inclusion’s Welcoming Week and Citizenship Clinic Updates. 3. Staff briefing from David Alcorta, Paraprofessional, Communications and Public Information Office (CPIO) and Houmma Garba, Community Engagement Consultant, CPIO regarding CPIO’s and Homeland Security and Emergency Management’s (HSEM) new emergency language access plan. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Update regarding the August JIC meeting budget priorities and recommendations to council as they relate to immigrants in Austin. 5. Discussion regarding a drafted Recommendation to Council to revamp the Community Liaison Office. 6. Discussion regarding the draft letter to the LGBTQ Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission regarding the priorities of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Creation of a meeting schedule for the Budget Working Group for the 2025-2026 Budget Year. (Workgroup Members: Chair Miriam Dorantes, Vice Chair Alondra Johnson, Commissioners Melissa Ortega and Diane Kanawati) 8. Creation of a meeting schedule for the Quality of Life Working Group for the 2025-2026 Budget Year. (Workgroup Members: Vice Chair Alondra Johnson, Commissioners Canan Kaba, Aditi Joshi, Melissa Ortega, Meghana Roy) 9. Creation of a meeting schedule for the U-Visa, T-Visa Working Group …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS SEPTEMBER 10, 2025, 6:00 PM AUSTIN ENERGY BUILDING 4815 MUELLER BLVD SHUDDE FATH HALL AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs 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 or in person, contact Nekaybaw Watson at nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-2562. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Miriam Dorantes, Chair Diane Kanawati Alondra Johnson, Vice-Chair Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch Adrian De La Rosa Melissa Ortega Azeem Edwin Aditi Joshi Yohana Saucedo Jeanne “Canan” Kaba Caroline Solis Meghana Roy AGENDA REVISED CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up 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 Commission on Immigrant Affairs regular meeting on August 4, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing by Rocio Villalobos, Immigrant Affairs Manager and DACA Liaison Officer, Office of Equity and Inclusion regarding the Office of Equity and Inclusion’s Welcoming Week and Citizenship Clinic Updates. 3. Staff briefing from David Alcorta, Paraprofessional, Communications and Public Information Office (CPIO) and Houmma Garba, Community Engagement Consultant, CPIO regarding CPIO’s and Homeland Security and Emergency Management’s (HSEM) new emergency language access plan. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Update regarding the August JIC meeting budget priorities and recommendations to council as they relate to immigrants in Austin. 5. Discussion regarding a drafted Recommendation to Council to revamp the Community Liaison Office. 6. Discussion regarding the draft letter to the LGBTQ Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission regarding the priorities of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs. 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 contact Nekaybaw Watson, Office of (512) 974-2562 or nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. …
Commission on Immigrant Affairs Meeting Minutes August 4, 2025 Commission on Immigrant Affairs Regular Meeting Minutes Monday, August 4, 2025 The Commission on Immigrant Affairs convened in a regular meeting on Monday, August 4, 2025, at Austin City Hall, W 3rd St, Room 1101 in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Dorantes called the Commission on Immigrant Affairs Regular Meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Melissa Ortega, Chair Miriam Dorantes, Vice Chair Adrian De La Rosa Alondra Johnson Diane Kanawati Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Aditi Joshi Meghna Roy Yohanna Saucedo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Immigration Affairs regular meeting on July 7, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of July 7, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Kanawati’s motion, Commissioner Joshi’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Edwin, Kaba, and Lincoln-Goldfinch were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding revisions to Austin Police Department’s U-Visa Policy by Lieutenant Robert Smith, Special Victims Bureau, Austin Police Department and Assistant Chief Angie Jones, Austin Police Department. 1 Commission on Immigrant Affairs Meeting Minutes August 4, 2025 Staff briefing was made by Lieutenant Robert Smith, Special Victims Bureau, Austin Police Department and Assistant Chief Angie Jones, Austin Police Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Discussion regarding the Travis County Commissioner’s Court vacancy. This item was taken up with item 14. Update on the most recent Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) meeting held in July 2025, as it relates to the Commission on Immigrant Affairs. Discussed. Update regarding the discussion during the July LGBTQ Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission Meeting about Immigrant Affairs. Discussed. Discussion regarding the written update on the Naturalization Informational Sessions and Clinics provided by Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Office of Equity and Inclusion. Discussed. Discussion regarding the written update on the Immigrant Quality-of-Life Study provided by Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director of the Office of Equity and Inclusion. Discussed. Discussion regarding the new structure for requesting updates from the Office of Equity and Inclusion. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 9. 10. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the staffing support of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs. The motion to approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the staffing support of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was approved on Commissioner Johnson’s motion, Vice Chair Dorantes’ second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Edwin, Joshi, Kaba, and Lincoln-Goldfinch were absent. Approve the election of …
Language Access Plan for Citywide Emergencies Houmma Garba - CPIO David Alcorta – HSEM September 2nd, 2025 Language Access Plan for Citywide Emergencies: Background The City Auditor conducted two audits: one in 2016 and another in 2021, involving language access services provided by the City, which culminated in a special report and staff response. The audits found that the City may not be meeting the needs of all non-English speaking Austinites because written policies did not align with actual practice. Additionally, the Auditor found that the City did not effectively communicate with community members before and during Winter Storm Uri in 2021, especially in language other than English. Because of this, limited English proficiency (LEP) Austinites may not have had the same access to important information and may have been disproportionately impacted. Austintexas.gov/sites/default/files/files/auditor/audit_reports/language_access_follow_up_may_2023.pdf September 2nd, 2025 Language Access Plan for Citywide Emergencies: Language Access Translation: The conversion of written communication from one language to another in a written form. An accurate translation is one that conveys the intent and essential meaning of the original text. Interpretation: Definitions The oral rendition of a spoken message from one language to another, preserving the intent and meaning of the original message. Threshold Language: The most common spoken languages in Austin other than English. Based on this data, and data on the percentage of people who identify as not speaking English “very well” is how HSEM determined the languages to provide translation and interpretation for. September 2nd, 2025 Language Access Plan for Citywide Emergencies: Limited English Proficiency September 2nd, 2025 What does Limited English Proficiency mean? Limited English Proficiency (LEP) A person with limited English proficiency (LEP) cannot speak, read, write or understand the English language at a level that permits him or her to interact effectively with City staff. Individuals who communicate with American Sign Language are covered in this definition, although other Federal laws and regulations such as the Americans with Disabilities Act apply and should be considered separately. Hello! ¡Hola! 你好！ 안녕하세요! Xin chào! नमस्ते! မင်္ဂလာပါ! Collaborative Partners • Communiations and Public Information Office • Homeland Security & Emergency Management • Ausitn Energy • Austin Water • Austin Public Health • And review by numerous community organizations. In 2022, CPIO, HSEM and a collaboration of the City’s departmental Language Access team members established an Emergency Language Access working group. September 2nd, 2025 The Working Group planning activities included: • Gathering LEP …
