SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Friday, March 28, 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. Conor Kelly Pete Salazar Elizabeth Slade Kristen Vassallo CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Elisabeth Meyer, Chair Jonathan Franks, Vice Chair Gabriel Arellano Lisa Chang Mickey Fetonte CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA 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 March 7, 2025. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 2. 3. 4. Recommendations from recommendations for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. the Budget Working Group regarding budget DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Approve a Budget Recommendation to Council regarding Micromobility Devices Impeding Public Walkways. Approve a Budget Recommendation to Council regarding Recognizing and Celebrating People with Disabilities. 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 Christi Vitela at the City Clerk Department at 512-974-2792 or email christi.vitela@austintexas.gov for additional information. TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities, please contact Christi Vitela at the City Clerk Department at 512-974-2792 or email christi.vitela@austintexas.gov.
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Friday, March 7, 2025 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Friday, March 7, 2025 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular called meeting on Friday, March 7, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St Austin, Texas. Chair Meyer called the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Meeting to order at 5:37 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Elisabeth Meyer, Chair Gabriel Arellano Conor Kelly Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Jonathan Franks, Vice Chair Lisa Chang Mickey Fetonte Jennifer Powell Kristen Vassallo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting on February 7, 2025. The minutes from the meeting on February 7, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Powell’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Chair Meyer abstained. Commissioner Vassallo was off the dais. Commissioner Salazar was absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Friday, March 7, 2025 2. 3. 4. 6. Presentation and discussion of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Action Plan for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. Presentation by James May, Officer Housing & Community Development, Rocio Pena-Martinez, Grants Program Manager, Housing Department and Julie Smith, Engagement Specialist, Housing Department. The presentation was made by James May, Officer Housing & Community Development, Rocio Pena-Martinez, Grants Program Manager, Housing Department and Julie Smith, Engagement Specialist, Housing Department. Discussion of micromobility and obstruction of sidewalks. The presentation was made by Michael Kimbro, Program Manager III, Austin Transportation and Public Works, and Joseph Al-Hajeri, Parking Enterprise Manager, Austin Transportation and Public Works. Discussion of upcoming changes to the fare system at CapMetro. Discussed. 5. Discussion of bringing awareness to 2025 disability events in the Austin area. Discussed. Discussion of the City of Austin budget process, Fiscal Year 2024-2025 budget recommendations and of proposed budget recommendations for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Formation of a Working Group to research and write Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget recommendations. The motion to form a Working Group to research and write Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget recommendations was approved on Chair Meyer’s motion, Commissioner Kelly’s second and approved on a 7-0 vote. Vice Chair Franks was off the dais. Commissioner Salazar was absent. Chair Meyer and Commissioners Chang, Kelly, and Powell were added to the working group without objection. 8. Discussion of ways the …
BOARD AND COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Recommendation Number: (20250328-XXX): Micromobility Devices Impeding Public Walkways WHEREAS, micromobility devices blocking public walkways, such as electric scooters, pose a hazard and limit individuals with mobility and vision impairments from effectively utilizing walkways; and WHEREAS, the Committee for People with Disabilities has considered this issue by soliciting feedback from community members, micromobility providers, the Department of Transportation and Public Works; and WHEREAS, the Committee for People with Disabilities has determined that in addition to current efforts by the City of Austin and micromobility providers, more must be done to make walkways safe and passable for all members of the community, including individuals with disabilities. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities encourages the Austin City Council to allocate funds (1) to develop signage encouraging proper parking to be posted in areas where micromobility use is high, and (2) towards enforcement of section Chapter 12-2-15 of the Code of Ordinances requiring micromobility devices to be parked appropriately. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: X-X For: Against: Absent: Attest: _____________________________________________ [NAME]
BOARD AND COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Recommendation Number: (20250328-XXX): Recognizing and Celebrating People with Disabilities WHEREAS, Austin has vibrant and robust communities of individuals with disabilities that make up a significant portion of Austin’s population; and WHEREAS, individuals with disabilities and their communities are often under resourced and more is needed to bring awareness to their issues; and WHEREAS, to bring awareness to and celebrate the Austin community of people with disabilities, the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities encourages the City to sponsor, attend, and/or recognize community events celebrating important yearly milestones for communities made up of people with disabilities. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities encourages the Austin City Council to allocate funds for the Committee to sponsor, attend, or recognize community events or celebrations for the following yearly milestones for communities of people with disabilities: ● 15 May - Global Accessibility Awareness Day ● 26 July - Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Anniversary ● October - National Disability Employment Awareness Month ● 3 December - International Day of Persons with Disabilities Date of Approval: March 28, 2025 Record of the vote: X-X For: Against: Absent: Attest: _____________________________________________ [NAME]
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Friday, March 7, 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. Conor Kelly Jennifer Powell Pete Salazar Kristen Vassallo CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Elisabeth Meyer, Chair Jonathan Franks, Vice Chair Gabriel Arellano Lisa Chang Mickey Fetonte CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA 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 February 7, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS Presentation and discussion of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Action Plan for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. Presentation by James May, Officer Housing & Community Development, Rocio Pena-Martinez, Grants Program Manager, Housing Department and Julie Smith, Engagement Specialist, Housing Department. Discussion of micromobility and obstruction of sidewalks. Discussion of upcoming changes to the fare system at CapMetro. Discussion of bringing awareness to 2025 disability events in the Austin area. Discussion of the City of Austin budget process, Fiscal Year 2024-2025 budget recommendations and of proposed budget recommendations for Fiscal Year 2025- 2026. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Formation of a Working Group to research and write Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget recommendations. Discussion of ways the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities can work with and advise the City of Austin Human Resources Department and formation of a Working Group to develop a training on City Code Chapter 5-6. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 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 …
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Friday, February 7, 2025 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Friday, February 7, 2025 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular called meeting on Friday, February 7, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St Austin, Texas. Commissioner Kelly called the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Meeting to order at 5:48 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Gabriel Arellano Conor Kelly Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Lisa Chang Mickey Fetonte Jennifer Powell Pete Salazar PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Melanie Babbitt – IDD need for higher caregiver rates. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting on December 13, 2024. The minutes from the meeting on December 13, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Salazar’s motion, Commissioner Kelly’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Chair Meyer, Vice Chair Franks, and Commissioner Vassallo were absent. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding the City of Austin emergency language access plan from the Communications and Public Information Office and the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Friday, February 7, 2025 The presentation was made by Marion Sanchez, Community Engagement Manager, Communications and Public Information Office, David Wiechmann, Acting Public Information and Marketing Program Manager, Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and David Alcorta, Community Engagement Specialist, Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of the Equity Office’s Undoing Institutional Racism Training, including the feasibility of attendance and accessibility considerations. The presentation was made by Angelica Benton-Molina, Equity and Inclusion Program Manager, Equity Office. 4. Discussion of bringing awareness to 2025 disability events in the Austin area. Discussed. 5. Discussion of scooters impeding the walkways on sidewalks. The presentation was made by Eli Davis, Lime. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion of ways the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities can work with and advise the City of Austin Human Resources Department and formation of a Working Group to develop a training on City Code Chapter 5-6. Discussion of the City of Austin Budget process and formation of a Working Group to research and write budget recommendations. 6. 7. Postponed. Postponed. None. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS A motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:10 pm was approved on Commissioner Salazar’s motion Commissioner Chang’s second on a 6-0 vote. Chair Meyer, Vice Chair Franks, and Commissioner Vassallo …
Discussion on community needs and spending priorities for the FY 25-26 Action Plan for federal grants. Agenda Funding and Engagement Cycle Background Federal Grants Overview FY23-24 Goals, Outcomes & Impact FY25-26 Priorities How do we fund our programs? HUD Annual Entitlement Grants Housing Trust Fund Approved City Bonds City Operating Budget Project Connect Anti-Displacement Funds CARES Act The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) allocates entitlement funding to municipalities and state governments. The City of Austin applies for approximately $14 million in annual grant entitlements across four grants for affordable housing, community development, economic development, and public services. These grants are part of a 5-year cycle. Consolidated Plan (5-Year) Allocates federal resources to housing and community development Action Plan (1-Year) Summarizes actions, activities and federal/non- federal resources in the Consolidated Plan Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) (1-Year) End-of-year report on progress toward consolidated plan 4 2024 Community Needs Assessment Feedback immediate help stability trust building wealth access 5 2024 Community Needs Assessment Feedback from Boards & Commissions Mayor's Committee on People with Disabilities Transparency & Accountability What is the total funding for housing programs? What has changed since you came to us last? How are you holding partners accountable? Outreach and Engagement How are you reaching our community? Data and Impact How great is the need? How are you serving our community? Funding Possibilities Programs and projects specific to each community Disappointment and Distrust More questions than input Calls for accountability The committee members wanted to see more data on people with disabilities and expressed frustration in not being able to find the information anywhere. They encouraged staff to work more directly with the City demographer to understand the needs of this specific demographic and to track how many people applying for programs identified as having a disability. Committee members had questions about home repair programs and fees associated with the repairs if the homeowner passes away. They were curious about how the budget fluctuates depending on needs and what dollars are protected when budgetary priorities change. Committee members asked about the requirements of development partners, including how long the affordability of properties will remain and what terms developers agree to for accessibility. Our Response HUD Funding Sources 8 Programs & Activities Overview FY 23-24 9 Goals & Outcomes FY 23-24 10 Who Did We Serve? Fiscal Year 22-23 Snapshot 1,856 # households served FY 23-24 …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Friday, February 7, 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. Conor Kelly Jennifer Powell Pete Salazar Kristen Vassallo CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Elisabeth Meyer, Chair Jonathan Franks, Vice Chair Gabriel Arellano Lisa Chang Mickey Fetonte CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA 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 December 13, 2024. STAFF BRIEFING 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Staff briefing regarding the City of Austin emergency language access plan from the Communications and Public Information Office and the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion of the Equity Office’s Undoing Institutional Racism Training, including the feasibility of attendance and accessibility considerations. Discussion of bringing awareness to 2025 disability events in the Austin area. Discussion of scooters impeding the walkways on sidewalks. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion of ways the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities can work with and advise the City of Austin Human Resources Department and formation of a Working Group to develop a training on City Code Chapter 5-6. Discussion of the City of Austin Budget process and formation of a Working Group to research and write budget recommendations. 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 Christi …
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Friday, December 13, 2024 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Friday, December 13, 2024 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular called meeting on Friday, December 13, 2024, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St Austin, Texas. Chair Meyer called the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Meeting to order at 5:33 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Elisabeth Meyer, Chair Gabriel Arellano Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Jonathan Franks, Vice Chair Mickey Fetonte Jennifer Powell Pete Salazar Kristen Vassallo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting on November 8, 2024. The minutes from the meeting on November 8, 2024, were approved on Vice Chair Frank’s motion, Commissioner Vassallo’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Chang and Kelly were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Friday, December 13, 2024 Update from Chair Meyer regarding the recent work of the CapMetro Community Advisory Committee. Chair Meyer provided an update. Discussion on the feasibility of attendance of and accessibility considerations for the Equity Office’s Undoing Institutional Racism Training. The motion to postpone to the next meeting was approved on Commissioner Salazar’s motion, Vice Chair Franks’ second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Chang and Kelly were absent. 4. Discussion on ways the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities can work with and advise the City of Austin Human Resources Department. The motion to postpone to the next meeting was approved on Commissioner Salazar’s motion, Commissioner Vassallo’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Chang and Kelly were absent. 5. Update on attendance of the Joint Inclusion Committee’s Budget Input Sessions. Commissioner Fetonte provided an update. Discussion on commissioner appointments in 2025, including Joint Inclusion Committee representatives, holdover capacity and quorum for the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 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 Director of the Office of Equity and Inclusion. Discussed. No action taken. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS CapMetro – Redline Trail (Meyer, Vassallo) Budget Discussion and Working Group (Meyer, Vassallo) Update CAC Committee (Meyer) A motion to adjourn the meeting at 5:55 pm was approved on Vice Chair Frank’s motion Commissioner Salazar’s …
Language Access Plan for Citywide Emergencies Marion Sanchez - CPIO | Houmma Garba - CPIO David Alcorta - HSEM January 10th, 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 January 10th, 2025 Language Access Plan for Citywide Emergencies: Language Access Translation: Definitions 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: 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. January 10th, 2025 Language Access Plan for Citywide Emergencies: Limited English Proficiency January 10th, 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! မဂင်္လာပါ! Collaborative Partners • Communiations and Public Information Office • Homeland Security & Emergency Management In 2022, CPIO, HSEM and a collaboration of the City’s departmental Language Access team members established an Emergency Language Access working group. • Ausitn Energy • Austin Water • Austin Public Health January 10th, 2025 • And review by numerous community organizations. The Working Group planning …
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Friday, February 7, 2025 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Friday, February 7, 2025 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular called meeting on Friday, February 7, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St Austin, Texas. Commissioner Kelly called the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Meeting to order at 5:48 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Gabriel Arellano Conor Kelly Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Lisa Chang Mickey Fetonte Jennifer Powell Pete Salazar PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Melanie Babbitt – IDD need for higher caregiver rates. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting on December 13, 2024. The minutes from the meeting on December 13, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Salazar’s motion, Commissioner Kelly’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Chair Meyer, Vice Chair Franks, and Commissioner Vassallo were absent. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding the City of Austin emergency language access plan from the Communications and Public Information Office and the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Friday, February 7, 2025 The presentation was made by Marion Sanchez, Community Engagement Manager, Communications and Public Information Office, David Wiechmann, Acting Public Information and Marketing Program Manager, Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and David Alcorta, Community Engagement Specialist, Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of the Equity Office’s Undoing Institutional Racism Training, including the feasibility of attendance and accessibility considerations. The presentation was made by Angelica Benton-Molina, Equity and Inclusion Program Manager, Equity Office. 4. Discussion of bringing awareness to 2025 disability events in the Austin area. Discussed. 5. Discussion of scooters impeding the walkways on sidewalks. The presentation was made by Eli Davis, Lime. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion of ways the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities can work with and advise the City of Austin Human Resources Department and formation of a Working Group to develop a training on City Code Chapter 5-6. Discussion of the City of Austin Budget process and formation of a Working Group to research and write budget recommendations. 6. 7. Postponed. Postponed. None. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS A motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:10 pm was approved on Commissioner Salazar’s motion Commissioner Chang’s second on a 6-0 vote. Chair Meyer, Vice Chair Franks, and Commissioner Vassallo …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Friday, January 10, 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. Conor Kelly Jennifer Powell Pete Salazar Kristen Vassallo CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Elisabeth Meyer, Chair Jonathan Franks, Vice Chair Gabriel Arellano Lisa Chang Mickey Fetonte CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA 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 December 13, 2024. STAFF BRIEFING Staff briefing regarding the City of Austin emergency language access plan from the Communications and Public Information Office and the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion on the feasibility of attendance of and accessibility considerations for the Equity Office’s Undoing Institutional Racism Training. Update from Chair Meyer regarding attendance of the CapMetro Community Advisory Committee and CapMetro fare payment system changes. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion of ways the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities can work with and advise the City of Austin Human Resources Department and formation of a Working Group to develop a training on City Code Chapter 5-6. Discussion of the City of Austin Budget process and formation of a Working Group to write budget recommendations. 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 Christi Vitela at the City Clerk Department at 512-974-2792 or …
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Friday, December 13, 2024 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Friday, December 13, 2024 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular called meeting on Friday, December 13, 2024, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St Austin, Texas. Chair Meyer called the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Meeting to order at 5:33 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Elisabeth Meyer, Chair Gabriel Arellano Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Jonathan Franks, Vice Chair Mickey Fetonte Jennifer Powell Pete Salazar Kristen Vassallo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting on November 8, 2024. The minutes from the meeting on November 8, 2024 were approved on Vice Chair Frank’s motion, Commissioner Vassallo’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Chang and Kelly were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Friday, December 13, 2024 Update from Chair Meyer regarding the recent work of the CapMetro Community Advisory Committee. Chair Meyer provided an update. Discussion on the feasibility of attendance of and accessibility considerations for the Equity Office’s Undoing Institutional Racism Training. The motion to postpone to the next meeting was approved on Commissioner Salazar’s motion, Vice Chair Franks’ second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Chang and Kelly were absent. 4. Discussion on ways the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities can work with and advise the City of Austin Human Resources Department. The motion to postpone to the next meeting was approved on Commissioner Salazar’s motion, Commissioner Vassallo’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Chang and Kelly were absent. 5. Update on attendance of the Joint Inclusion Committee’s Budget Input Sessions. Commissioner Fetonte provided an update. Discussion on commissioner appointments in 2025, including Joint Inclusion Committee representatives, holdover capacity and quorum for the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 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 Director of the Office of Equity and Inclusion. Discussed. No action taken. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS CapMetro – Redline Trail (Meyer, Vassallo) Budget Discussion and Working Group (Meyer, Vassallo) Update CAC Committee (Meyer) A motion to adjourn the meeting at 5:55 pm was approved on Vice Chair Frank’s motion Commissioner Salazar’s …
Language Access Plan for Citywide Emergencies Marion Sanchez - CPIO | Houmma Garba - CPIO David Alcorta - HSEM January 10th, 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 January 10th, 2025 Language Access Plan for Citywide Emergencies: Language Access Translation: Definitions 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: 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. January 10th, 2025 Language Access Plan for Citywide Emergencies: Limited English Proficiency January 10th, 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! မဂင်္လာပါ! Collaborative Partners • Communiations and Public Information Office • Homeland Security & Emergency Management In 2022, CPIO, HSEM and a collaboration of the City’s departmental Language Access team members established an Emergency Language Access working group. • Ausitn Energy • Austin Water • Austin Public Health January 10th, 2025 • And review by numerous community organizations. The Working Group planning …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Friday, December 13, 2024, 5:30pm Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room #1101 301 West 2nd Street Austin, Texas 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. Conor Kelly Jennifer Powell Pete Salazar Kristen Vassallo CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Elisabeth Meyer, Chair Jonathan Franks, Vice Chair Gabriel Arellano Lisa Chang Mickey Fetonte CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA 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 November 8, 2024. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Update from Chair Meyer regarding the recent work of the CapMetro Community Advisory Committee. Discussion on the feasibility of attendance of and accessibility considerations for the Equity Office’s Undoing Institutional Racism Training. Discussion on ways the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities can work with and advise the City of Austin Human Resources Department. Update on attendance of the Joint Inclusion Committee’s Budget Input Sessions. Discussion on commissioner appointments in 2025, including Joint Inclusion Committee representatives, holdover capacity and quorum for the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 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 Director of the Office of Equity and Inclusion. 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 …
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Friday, November 8, 2024 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Friday, November 8, 2024 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular called meeting on Friday, November 8, 2024, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St Austin, Texas. Chair Meyer called the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Meeting to order at 5:33 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Elisabeth Meyer, Chair Gabriel Arellano Conor Kelly Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Lisa Chang Mickey Fetonte Jennifer Powell Pete Salazar PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting on October 11, 2024. The minutes from the meeting on October 11, 2024 were approved on Commissioner Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Powell’s second on a 7-0 vote. Vice Chair Franks and Commissioner Vassallo were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation by Surei Scanlon, Office of Community Liaison Manager, Austin Police Department, and Brienz Edwards, Training Supervisor, Austin Police Department, on the work of the department and the community outreach program. 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Friday, November 8, 2024 The presentation was made by Surei Scanlon, Office of Community Liaison Manager, Austin Police Department, Brienz Edwards, Training Supervisor, Austin Police Department, and Allison Roper, Business Process Consultant, Austin Police Department. 3. Presentation by Kyle Carvell, Airport Relations Officer, Aviation Department, and Ramonika Carr, Airport Guest Services Officer, Aviation Department on the accessibility features at the airport and discussion on how to best communicate with the disability community about how to access these features, and future outreach opportunities. The presentation was made by Kyle Carvell, Airport Relations Officer, Aviation Department, and Ramonika Carr, Airport Guest Services Officer, Aviation Department. 4. Discussion of ways to improve sidewalk accessibility by encouraging residents to park scooters in the street rather than on walkways. Discussed. Commissioners Kelly and Powell would like the Transportation and Public Works Department to present on this topic at a future meeting. 5. Update from Chair Meyer regarding the recent work of the CapMetro Community Advisory DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Discussion of the Equity Based Preservation Plan and approval of a Recommendation to The motion to approve the Equity Based Preservation Plan Recommendation was approved on Commissioner Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Powell’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Vice Chair Franks and Commissioner Vassallo were absent. Committee. Withdrawn. Council. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING of the MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Friday, November 8, 2024, 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. Conor Kelly Jennifer Powell Pete Salazar Kristen Vassallo CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Elisabeth Meyer, Chair Jonathan Franks, Vice Chair Gabriel Arellano Lisa Chang Mickey Fetonte CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA 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 October 11, 2024. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation by Surei Scanlon, Office of Community Liaison Manager, Austin Police Department, and Brienz Edwards, Training Supervisor, Austin Police Department, on the work of the department and the community outreach program. 3. Presentation by Kyle Carvell, Airport Relations Officer, Aviation Department, and Ramonika Carr, Airport Guest Services Officer, Aviation Department on the accessibility features at the airport and discussion on how to best communicate with the disability community about how to access these features, and future outreach opportunities. 4. Discussion of ways to improve sidewalk accessibility by encouraging residents to park scooters in the street rather than on walkways. 5. Update from Chair Meyer regarding the recent work of the CapMetro Community Advisory Committee. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Council. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 6. Discussion of the Equity Based Preservation Plan and approval of a Recommendation to ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please the …
