REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Friday, August 8, 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 PROCLAMATION Mickey Fetonte Jonathan Franks Lynn Murphy Elizabeth Slade Kristen Vassallo AGENDA Proclamation – 35th American Disability Act Anniversary – To be presented by Mayor Kirk Watson 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 July 11, 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. Update from the Joint Inclusion Committee representatives on the work of the committee from the July 2025 meeting. 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 their most recent meetings and accomplishments. 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. 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 regarding the creation of a community center in the South Congress and …
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 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes July 11, 2025 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. 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 …
MAYOR'S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250808-009 Date: August 8, 2025 Subject: Partnership with the Texas Governor's Committee on People with Disabilities Motioned By: Seconded By: Recommendation The committee recommends an invitation to the Texas Governor's Committee on People with Disabilities to co-host the AWEbility Festival in October 2025 and October 2026. Description of Recommendation to Council We recommend inviting the Governor's Committee to partner as a co-host of the AWEbility Festival, which is scheduled to unfold in two phases: • October 10, 2025 – a small celebration at Austin City Hall, featuring artists, advocates, workshops, and a ceremony honoring local inclusion leaders; and • October 2026 – a full-scale music and sign language festival at Auditorium Shores, showcasing disabled performers, disability-owned vendors, and sensory-friendly spaces. We anticipate a $10,000-$20,000 budget for the event. Rationale: The Governor's Committee is well-positioned to assist the Mayor's Committee for People with Disabilities in promoting accessibility and community engagement for people with disabilities. The support of the Governor's Committee would increase the reach and impact of the festival through outreach and communication, festival program input, and accessibility practices. We also hope to explore joint efforts with the Governor's Committee to access funding through grants or in-kind donations. Vote: (Add the number vote here, even if unanimous) For: Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: [Staff or board member can sign] 1 of 1
ADA Transition Plans for Pedestrian Crossings and Urban Trails Mayor's Committee for People with Disabilities Friday, August 8, 2025 | 5PM Today’s Presenters Jetal Bhakta Pedestrian Crossing Program Manager Transportation and Public Works Department Sheida Carugati Transportation Planner DKS Associates ADA Transition Plans for Pedestrian Crossings & Urban Trails Meeting Agenda ❑Overview of ADA Transition Plans ❑Project goals & tasks ❑Accessibility focus areas ❑Ways to participate ❑Questions & answers What is the ADA? ❑Civil rights law ❑Signed on July 26, 1990 ❑Ensures access for people with disabilities ❑Requires public infrastructure to be accessible • Americans with Disabilities Act What is an ADA Transition Plan? ❑A required government document ❑Identify barriers that make it hard for people with disabilities to access places ❑Includes plans and timelines for fixing these barriers and improving accessibility ❑Helps cities like Austin offer safe and fair access to transportation for everyone Project Purpose ADA Transition Plan for Pedestrian Crossings ADA Transition Plan for Urban Trails ADA Transition Plans for Pedestrian Crossings & Urban Trails Project Focus Areas Pedestrian Crossing Barriers • Missing pedestrian push buttons • Pedestrian signals that are too fast • Missing or faded crosswalks Project Focus Areas Pedestrian Crossing Barriers • Non-ADA compliant ramps • Poorly aligned crosswalks • Obstacles in the way of the crossing Project Focus Areas Pedestrian Crossing Barriers • Crosswalk sound cues are missing • Unsafe feeling to cross due to visibility issues Project Focus Areas Urban Trail Barriers • Steep inclines • Lack of signage • Cracked pavement/missing pedestrian railing Project Focus Areas Urban Trail Barriers • Narrow trails or not enough space to pass • Obstacles in the way of the trail • Dark conditions / insufficient lighting Your Feedback Matters ❑Your input helps shape the final ADA Transition Plans ❑We’re using your feedback to: ▪ Identify barriers and areas of concern ▪ Prioritize locations for inspection and improvement ▪ Develop recommendations that reflect community needs How You Can Participate 1. Complete the online survey 2. Share survey with your network English Survey: https://speakupaustin.org/austinada Encuesta en español: https://speakupaustin.org/austinadaesp ADA Transition Plan Timeline ❑Public Outreach - June 24 – August 15, 2025 ❑50% Draft Plan – anticipated November 2025 ❑Final Plan – anticipated June 2026 Next Steps ❑A summary of this meeting and all outreach will be included in the Final ADA Transition Plans. ❑For questions or follow-up, contact us at: MobilityBonds@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2300
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250808-008 Date: July 28, 2025 Subject: Recommendation to the City Council Supporting the Inclusion of a Community Center in the South Congress and Riverside Mixed-Use Development Motioned By: Gabriel Arellano Seconded By: _____________ Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends that the Austin City Council direct the City Manager to initiate negotiations with Related Companies to include a dedicated Community Center in the South Congress and Riverside mixed-use development. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Direct the Planning and Zoning Department to revise the rezoning approval for the South Congress and Riverside development to include a Community Center. ● Allocate initial funding support for the Community Center from the FY2025–26 city budget. ● Ensure collaboration with the Office of Equity and Inclusion and the Human Rights Commission to evaluate equity and accessibility compliance. ● Facilitate a meeting between City officials and Related Companies, including representatives from the disability community, to co-develop inclusive design and programming features. Rationale ● Equity and Civil Rights: The disability community, which constitutes approximately 15% of Austin’s population, currently lacks equitable access to accessible venues. A community center would provide essential space for services, inclusive programming, and public gatherings. This proposal aligns with the City of Austin’s Strategic Direction 2023 goals and civil rights ordinances such as the Austin CROWN Act and Title II of the ADA. ● Community Needs: Public sentiment gathered via social media and local reporting shows a strong desire for affordable and community-oriented spaces. A community center will meet this need while serving as a resilience hub during climate emergencies and preserving the cultural integrity of historic neighborhoods. ● Economic and Social Benefits: The proposed center will support small and disability-owned businesses, provide gathering space, and enhance pedestrian-friendly design by fostering a greater sense of community belonging and safety. ● Inclusive Programming and Governance: The center will feature workshops in disability rights, Indigenous rights, ASL education, and STEM activities. Its leadership will prioritize governance by representatives of marginalized communities, including people with disabilities, people of color, and LGBTQ individuals. Vote For: [#] Against: [#] Abstain: [#] Absent: [#] Attest: [Signature line for staff or board member]
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
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Friday, June 13, 2025, 5:30 p.m. 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 May 9, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. 5. Discussion of funding for the therapeutic recreation program in the Austin Parks and Recreation Department. Update from the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) representative regarding the latest meeting. Update regarding the most recent meeting of the Austin Transit Partnership Community Advisory Committee. Discussion regarding the identification of additional priorities in 2025 for the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 6. Update from the October 2025 Disability Event Working Group on their most recent meetings and accomplishments. 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. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 8. Approve a Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities job candidate qualities priority list. 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 …
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Friday, May 9, 2025 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Friday, May 9, 2025 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular called meeting on Friday, May 9, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St., Austin, Texas. Chair Kelly called the Mayor’s Committee on People with Disabilities Meeting to order at 5:33 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Conor Kelly, Chair Gabriel Arellano Audrea Diaz Lynn Murphy Elizabeth Slade Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Lisa Chang DeLawnia Comer-HaGans Mickey Fetonte Kristen Vassallo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 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 April 11, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of April 11, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Vassallo’s motion, Chair Kelly’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Slade was off the dais. Vice Chair Meyer and Commissioner Frank were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Update from the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) representative regarding the meeting on April 23, 2025. 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Friday, May 9, 2025 Update provided by Commissioner Chang. 3. 4. Discussion of the Equity and Inclusion Office’s Undoing Institutional Racism Training. Update provided by Chair Kelly. Update regarding the most recent meeting of the Austin Transit Partnership Community Advisory Committee. Withdrawn. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve the formation of a Working group to plan for a disability awareness event in October 2025. The motion to approve the formation of a Working Group to plan a disability awareness in October 2025, was approved on Commissioner Chang’s motion, festival Commissioner Vassallo’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Slade was off the dais. Vice Chair Meyer and Commissioner Frank were absent. The motion to approve adding Commissioners Arellano, Chang, and Murphy, and Warren “Wawa” Snipes, Douglas Ridloff, Ricardo Leon, Heather Pavey, Amy Baxter, Michelle Lapis to the Working Group was approved on Chair Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Murphy’s second on a 9-0 vote. Vice Chair Meyer and Commissioner Frank were absent. 6. Select a Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities member liaison to participate in the interview panel and relay Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities authorized feedback on the interview process for the Civil Rights Officer. Withdrawn. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Identify 1-2 additional long term priorities for 2025 for the …
Testing Candidates Knowledge of Disabilities - City of Austin 1. Issues impacting individuals with disabilities a. Types of disabilities i. Does the candidate understand what kinds of disabilities impact community members? b. Daily life i. Does the candidate understand what kinds of barriers individuals with disabilities face? c. Services/Accommodations available i. Does the candidate understand what kinds of accommodations are common for different types of disabilities? 2. Community engagement a. Does the candidate know Austin community organizations? If appropriate, does the candidate have contacts there? b. What is the candidate’s past involvement in Austin community organizations? c. How do they propose being involved in the future, as it relates to the position? 3. Legal protections a. Accommodations i. Does the candidate understand situations where individuals with disabilities are legally entitled to accommodation (ex. work, public places, transportation)? b. Anti-discrimination i. Does the candidate understand what protections individuals with disabilities have against discriminatory practices?
Proposal to Establish a Therapeutic Recreation Program in South Austin by: Ivette Gonzalez, BA; MPA- mother/advocate of Antonio Hueyopa and residents in District 2 Purpose: This request proposes the development and funding of a new Adult Therapeutic Recreation Program in South Austin, aimed at addressing a regional service gap and expanding equitable access to therapeutic recreation services across the city. Background: According to data from COA Parks and Recreation Department, current Adult Therapeutic Recreation Programs in the North Austin areas are housed at the McBeth, Alamo, Dottie Jordan, and Parque Zaragoza Recreation Centers. These centers collectively serve 129 individuals through programs such as: - Good Neighbor Adventure Club ($176,108 budget) - Healthy Aging ($122,764) - The Hangout ($57,800) - Capital City Explorers ($120,987) - Social Club ($59,102) Staffing across these programs includes Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS), supported by 2–5 full-time equivalents (FTEs) and 2–4 temporary staff per site. While these programs offer quality services in Central and East Austin, South Austin currently lacks a dedicated therapeutic recreation program, leaving residents without equitable access. Proposal To be Considered and Recommendations: In order to rectify this deficit, I propose the creation of a Therapeutic Recreation Program in South Austin that models successful elements of existing sites. The proposed program would: - Offer structured programming at either of the two existing recreation centers in South Austin- Ditmar and Dove Springs. In the future and as enrollment increases, programs should be implemented at both sites and the COA would potentially explore building a new facility in South Austin to meet the needs of the fast-growing development and population - The new program would potentially be staffed with existing CTRS professionals that become regionalized across COA therapeutic recreation programs (salary range: $47,465–$60,694) and supported by trained temporary staff. This means that current staff would be offered the opportunity to work at sites that are closest to their homes, which would minimize their daily commute and encourage community investment. - The new program would provide social, emotional, and physical wellness activities similar to “The Hangout,” “Healthy Aging,” and “Good Neighbor Adventure Club.” Estimated budget allocation would fall in line with existing therapeutic recreation programs, ranging from $60,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on program scope and staffing levels. Justification: - South Austin has no current therapeutic recreation programming, representing an unmet need. Based on the most recent US Census Bureau data for Austin, Texas and your …
Therapeutic Recreation Services reallygreatsite.com Austin Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) is proud to offer Therapeutic Recreation Services to provide safe, accessible, fun and supportive recreation environments for all persons no matter their abilities. PARD’s Therapeutic Recreation Services include both adaptive and inclusive programs which are facilitated and supported by Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS). District 8 Danny G. McBeth Recreation Center Year-Round Adult Day Program - $176,108 Good Neighbor Adventure Club (GNAC) 58 unique individuals attending Camps - Youth, Teens, Young Adults - $220,043 10 weeks, Monday - Friday 30 participants enrolled weekly 58 participants waitlisted weekly Recreation Therapy Social Skill Groups - $16,590 16 unique individuals enrolled Adaptive Sports - $16,400 Adult Enrichment Programs - $4,847 Community Events - $6,090 Operating Budget: $823,257 FTE Budget: $349,117 Alamo Recreation Center District 1 Year-round Adult Day Programs - $180,564 Healthy Aging 17 unique participants The Hangout 13 unique participants Adult Job Skills - $16,590 40 participants enrolled Community Events - $12,000 Inclusion Summer Staff Support - $50,000 Operating Budget: 498,226 FTE Budget: 180,626 District 1 Dottie Jordan Recreation Center Year-round Adult Day Program - $120,987 Capital City Explorers - 25 Unique Participants Inclusive Preschool Programs - $17,566 Adult Enrichment - $8,538 Community Events - $22,625 Operating Budget: 245,434 FTE Budget: $118,349 Modifications & Support Youth Program Inclusion Support Staffing - $409,041 + $50,000 Alamo Task Order After School, Camp Day and Summer Camp 104 participants receiving support services Inclusion Support Staff Trainings (256 hours) - $32,440 ASL Interpreters - $54,197 Operating Budget: $584,466 FTE Budget: $264,688 District 3 Parque Zaragoza Recreation Center TR Year-Round Adult Day Program - $59,102 Social Club 16 Unique participants Inclusive Summer Camp - $70,779 After School - $58,286 Camp Days - $18,855 Youth Sports - $15,833 Out of School Time Programs - $11,247 Community Events - $6,000 Operating Budget: $676,358 FTE Budget: $265,435
