REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2026, AT 5:30PM AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W 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, contact Nekaybaw Watson, Nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov, 512-974-2562. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Conor Kelly, Chair Lisa Chang, Vice Chair Gabriel Arellano DeLawnia Comer-HaGans Elizabeth Slade Audrea Diaz Mickey Fetonte Lynn Murphy Alejandro San Martin Kristen Vassallo 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 13, 2026. STAFF BRIEFING 2. 3. Staff briefing regarding an update on the Levers of Economic Mobility. Presentation by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr., Austin Equity and Inclusion, and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity and Inclusion. Staff briefing regarding the Camancho Activity Center’s accessibility and guided group programs. Presentation by Ryan Eaker, Nature Based Programs Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation and Athan Bernal, Nature Based Program Manager, Austin Parks and Recreation. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Presentation from Clear the Air ATX regarding the impact of Long COVID on the disability community, and ways the Mayor’s Committee for people with Disabilities can support Long COVID awareness efforts. Presentation by Katie Drackert, Founder, Clear the Air ATX, Naveen Farrani, Member, Clear the Air ATX and Michael Brode, UT Post COVID Clinic Medical Director, University of Texas. Update from the Joint Inclusion Committee representative regarding the budget priorities that the commission could consider. 5. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve a Budget Recommendation to Council regarding far Southeast library branch site selection. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided …
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR MEETING MINUTES FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2026 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular meeting on Friday, February 13, 2026, at 301 W 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Chair Kelly called the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities meeting to order at 5:33 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Conor Kelly, Chair Gabriel Arellano Lisa Chang Alejandro “Alex” San Martin Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Delawnia Comer-HaGans Audrea Diaz Lynn Murphy Elizabeth Slade Kristen Vassallo Commissioners Absent: Mickey Fetonte PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Regular Meeting on January 9, 2026. The motion to approve the minutes of the January 9, 2026, regular meeting of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities was approved on Chair Kelly’s motion, 1 Commissioner Vassallo’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Chang was off the dais. Commissioner Fetonte was absent. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding advancing ADA Compliance and Austin Energy and Inclusion updates. Presentation by Megan Dere, American Disability Act Administrator, Austin Equity and Inclusion. Presentation given by Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Austin Equity and Inclusion and Megan Dere, American Disability Act Administrator, Austin Equity and Inclusion. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of remembrance of Bob Kafka, co-founder of ADAPT. Discussion was held. 4. Update from Joint Inclusion Committee representative regarding the budget priorities that the commission could consider. Update given by Commissioner Chang. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a list of legislative priorities for the federal and state government. Withdrawn. 6. Approve a Budget Recommendation to Council regarding Elisabet Ney Museum Accessible Restroom Facility. The motion to approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the Elisabet Ney Museum Accessible Restroom Facility was approved on Chair Kelly’s motion, Commissioner San Martin’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Fetonte was absent. 7. Approve a Budget Recommendation to Council regarding AWEbility Festival. The motion to approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the AWEbility Festival was approved as amended by Commissioner Arrellano on Chair Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Chang’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Diaz was off dais. Commissioner Fetonte was absent. The amendment was to insert “Whereas, the AWEbility Festival is seeking funding for the following items the festival venue, accessibility services including ASL interpreters and mobility access, marketing materials, insurance, venue stage, operations including a program manager, and compensation for the festival coordinator.” …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Date: March 13, 2026 Recommendation Number 20260313-006 Subject: Budget Recommendation to the City Council Regarding Far Southeast Library Branch Site Selection Motioned By: Seconded By: WHEREAS, the current Southeast Branch Library is undersized for community demand. The need for a full- service Far Southeast Branch Library is grounded first and foremost in (1) long-standing neighborhood need, (2) obligations to historically underserved residents, and (3) the necessity of accessible, community- serving infrastructure where families already live; WHEREAS, for people with disabilities, libraries are essential access infrastructure—providing assistive technology, inclusive programming, safe indoor space, and digital connectivity. A Far Southeast Branch must be planned with accessibility from the beginning, which requires immediate investment in site selection and predevelopment; and WHEREAS, funding site selection and predevelopment is needed so the community can begin shared investment and fundraising. WHEREAS, the new library should have digital accessibility and assistive technology including computers with screen readers; accessible printers and adaptive equipment; and free internet access for households without reliable service. WHEREAS, the new library should be a safe, climate-controlled public space that can serve as a cooling center; provide a safe daytime space; and serve as a refuge for medically vulnerable residents. WHEREAS, the new library should have inclusive learning and programming including sensory-friendly story times; accessible teen spaces; adult literacy and lifelong learning; and community classes without cost barriers. WHEREAS, the new library should encourage employment and independence through job applications and workforce training; benefits navigation; and quiet, inclusive workspaces. WHEREAS, the new library should encourage social connection and community belonging. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities encourages the Austin City Council to allocate $500,000 for site selection and predevelopment of the Far Southeast Branch Library. The $500,000 should include digital access and assistive technology; safe, climate- controlled public space; inclusive learning and programming; and social connection and community belonging. Date of Approval: Vote Count: For: Against: Attest:
Economic Mobility Austin Equity & Inclusion Our Time Together • Economic Mobility Overview • Quality-of-Life Studies: Key Connections • Building the Economic Mobility Index • Turning the Index Into Action • Upcoming Event 2 What Drives Economic Mobility Economic mobility is shaped by our systems, policies, and investments — not just individual effort. Mobility includes building wealth and long-term stability for future generations. Education, health, housing, childcare, and strong social conditions enable families to thrive. In Austin, persistent disparities limit opportunities, but a person’s future shouldn’t be determined by their neighborhood or systemic barriers. Beyond Wages Quality of Life We Shape Systems 3 Quality-of-Life Studies: Key Connections High-Level Themes Financial Progress & Economic Outcomes • Deeply affordable housing • • Utility assistance and energy relief Job pipelines and employment access programs Quality of Life & Well-Being • Pop-up clinics in high-need areas • Culturally competent healthcare training • Inclusive planning processes for older adults Opportunities & Access Teen job search portal • • Strengthen multilingual outreach • Partnerships with schools, nonprofits, and public agencies Families, Communities, & Systems • Neighborhood safety audits • Greening and beautification initiatives • Strengthen family-support systems through childcare access and wraparound services 4 Definition Economic mobility addresses systems to improve unfair conditions that influence whether individuals, families, and communities can prosper over time and across generations. It means access to opportunities and resources needed for basic needs, financial security, and a dignified, high quality of life — regardless of race, place, gender, or ability. 5 Economic Mobility Index Human-centered, place-based tool for understanding conditions that shape residents’ ability to thrive in Austin. Visualizes neighborhood- level disparities as defined by economic mobility. Focuses on underlying conditions to guide service delivery and decision- making using data and community insights. Provides a common lens to support coordination, planning, and shared outcomes—without replacing existing tools. 6 Our Approach: Identifying Levers National Frameworks & Local Tools • Drivers of Poverty • Social Vulnerable Index • Justice 40 • Neighborhood Prosperity Dashboard etc. Hybrid Engagement Process • Quality of Life Studies • CoA Commissions • Internal & External Stakeholders • Every Texan Peer Cities Review 10 cities similar in: • State • Size • Demographics • Product CoA Levers of Economic Mobility • 3 Themes • 6 Sub-themes • 18 Levers of Economic Mobility 7 Building the Index Together Early childhood foundations shape mobility • Indicator: Enrollment in early education (public) …
Lorraine “Grandma” Camacho Activity Center Austin Parks and Recreation | March 13, 2026 About Us The Lorraine "Grandma" Camacho Activity Center offers quality outdoor recreation, nature-based education, and cultural arts programs for people of all ages and all abilities. We specialize in activities such as: • Trail Biking • Kayaking • Hiking • Rock Climbing, Fishing, Archery • Film-making, and much more Program Structure Programs are guided models centered around the outdoor activities. Camacho does not offer rentals or host vendors. All programs are guided by trained & experienced COA staff. Training follows strict standard operation procedures: • Starguard Elite Life Guard • First Aid + CPR • NICA + IMBA cycling instructors Adaptive & Inclusive Programming Camacho is committed to providing safe & inclusive group programs to people of all ability levels. Specialized Inclusive Programs: • Adaptive Kayaking (weekly attendance by people with mobility needs) • Nature Immersion • Structured, award-winning adaptive kayaking programs for targeted groups All programs inclusive and additional needs supported by APR Inclusion team. Facilty Accessibility Kayaking Dock • Enhanced ADA access, specialized transfer bench, and adaptive kayaking equipment. Front Desk • Includes a lowered level section with an open, chair recess below it. Entrance • Ramp leading up to the entrance • Automated front doors currently under prioritized assignment for project manager and contractor. Deferred Maintenance Status Camacho front door automation is currently in the bid process. This item has been on the list for deferred maintenance and has been highlighted as a priority project. Door pull weight is adjusted to meet ADA standards and target for automated doors within FY26. Door automation bid expected 3/16/26. Registration Accessibility All of our registration information is announced on our website, front doors, brochures, and monthly newsletter. Registration Options: • Online Website ⚬ QR codes on front door & brochures • In-Person ⚬ 35 Robert Martinez Jr. St. ⚬ Monday - Friday: 1PM - 6PM • Phone ⚬ 512-978-2420 ⚬ Monday - Friday: 1PM - 6PM Question & Answer
Lorraine “Grandma” Camacho Activity Center Austin Parks and Recreation | March 13, 2026 About Us The Lorraine "Grandma" Camacho Activity Center offers quality outdoor recreation, nature-based education, and cultural arts programs for people of all ages and all abilities. We specialize in activities such as: • Trail Biking • Kayaking • Hiking • Rock Climbing, Fishing, Archery • Film-making, and much more Program Structure Programs are guided models centered around the outdoor activities. Camacho does not offer rentals or host vendors. All programs are guided by trained & experienced COA staff. Training follows strict standard operation procedures: • Starguard Elite Life Guard • First Aid + CPR • NICA + IMBA cycling instructors Adaptive & Inclusive Programming Camacho is committed to providing safe & inclusive group programs to people of all ability levels. Specialized Inclusive Programs: • Adaptive Kayaking (weekly attendance by people with mobility needs) • Nature Immersion • Structured, award-winning adaptive kayaking programs for targeted groups All programs inclusive and additional needs supported by APR Inclusion team. Facilty Accessibility Kayaking Dock • Enhanced ADA access, specialized transfer bench, and adaptive kayaking equipment. Front Desk • Includes a lowered level section with an open, chair recess below it. Entrance • Ramp leading up to the entrance • Automated front doors currently under prioritized assignment for project manager and contractor. Deferred Maintenance Status Camacho front door automation is currently in the bid process. This item has been on the list for deferred maintenance and has been highlighted as a priority project. Door pull weight is adjusted to meet ADA standards and target for automated doors within FY26. Door automation bid expected 3/16/26. Registration Accessibility All of our registration information is announced on our website, front doors, brochures, and monthly newsletter. Registration Options: • Online Website ⚬ QR codes on front door & brochures • In-Person ⚬ 35 Robert Martinez Jr. St. ⚬ Monday - Friday: 1PM - 6PM • Phone ⚬ 512-978-2420 ⚬ Monday - Friday: 1PM - 6PM Question & Answer
March 2026 Long COVID, Disability, and Public Health in Austin Introduction Founder of Clear the Air ATX Recipient of the American Association of People with Disabilities 2026 Paul G Hearne Emerging Leader Award Contributor to Patient-Led Research Collaborative Board Member & Accessibility Coordinator of Austin Dyke March Board 2 Those studying the impact of Long COVID on Disabled people have made clear recommendations that “we must center the needs of people with disabilities to create equitable policies and responses that result in better health outcomes for this health disparity population” Sources: American Public Health Association - https://ajph.aphapublications.org/doi/10.2105/AJPH.20 24.307794 3 ● According to the CDC, Over 6 million people in Texas have a disability, or about 29% of the population. ● 17.9% of residents in Texas have experienced Long COVID. ● Texas also has the lowest health insurance rate in the country, with 13.6% of Texas children and 21.6% of Texas adults who do not have health insurance. This leads to many health barriers for people to access basic care. Disability in Texas Sources: Texas Care for Children , CDC Disability and Health Data System, https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandhealth Long Covid and Disability Research shows people with disabilities face higher risk of Long COVID. Sources: Disability and Health Journal (2023) One study found: • 40.6% prevalence among people with preexisting disabilities • 18.9% in the general population People with disabilities may face additional barriers including • healthcare access challenges • higher exposure risk • disparities in treatment and diagnosis Local Healthcare Resources and Public Health Awareness Source: Dell Medical School https://dellmed.utexas.edu Austin benefits from strong healthcare institutions. UT Austin Dell Medical School • operates post-COVID clinical services • participates in national research initiatives Austin Public Health also provides Long COVID information resources through the City website. However, available materials appear limited, are difficult to find, and have not been significantly updated since 2023. The current APH resource discussing Long Covid has room for improvement as it lacks critical educational information and resources that would be beneficial to the disabled community. Long Covid has a vast amount of symptoms, however, the flyer does not disclose that people could still have Long Covid but not be experiencing the symptoms they listed. There is no education discussing the cumulative risk of developing Long Covid with each additional infection. There is an absence of resources listed to help further someone’s understanding, education, and potential ability to receive medical …
MARCH 2026 Long COVID & Disability W. MICHAEL BRODE MD FACP ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF MEDICINE MEDICAL DIRECTOR OF POST-COVID-19 PROGRAM WILLIAM.BRODE@AUSTIN.UTEXAS.EDU Terms and Definitions Settled on: Long COVID Also known as: Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 Infection (PASC) Post-COVID syndrome Post-COVID conditions Chronic COVID-19 COVID “Long-Haulers” No consensus diagnostic criteria Stage 1 (Early Infection) Viral Phase Remdesivir Monoclonal Antibodies Nirmatrelvir/Molnupiravir Acute COVID-19 Disease Course Stage 2 (Pulmonary Phase) Stage 3 (Thrombo-inflammatory Phase) Host Inflammatory Response Phase Dexamethasone Anticoagulation Tocilizumab/Baricitinib Fever, Myalgia, Anosmia, Ageusia, Dry Cough, Diarrhea, Headache, Orthostasis Dyspnea, Encephalopathy, Hypoxemia, Bilateral Chest Infiltrates Pulmonary Embolism, Refractory Hypoxemia, Myocarditis, Shock Lymphopenia Transaminitis Elevated Inflammatory Markers (CRP, LDH, IL-6, D-dimer, ferritin) Severe D-dimer Elevation Multiorgan Failure (elevated troponin, creatinine, lactate) Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7 Day 8 Day 9 Day 10 Day 11 Day 12 Day 13 Day 14 Day 15 Day 16 Day 17 Day 18 Day 19 Day 20 Nasal PCR Positive Hospital Admission ARDS Mechanical Ventilation Acute Kidney Injury Secondary Infection Death Treatment s s e n l l I f o y t i r e v e S Clinical Findings Lab Findings Day -5 Exposure Pre-symptomatic Phase Day 0 Symptom Onset WM Brode MD, G Lazuta (2022) Post-COVID-19 Disease Course Acute Infection (0-4 weeks) Subacute COVID (4-12 weeks) PASC ( > 12 weeks) Viral Phase Host Inflammatory Response Phase s s e n l l I f o y t i r e v e S Pre-symptomatic Phase Day 0 Symptom Onset Day 14 Day 28 Day 84 Day 120 Day 180 Post-COVID-19 Symptoms Acute Infection (0-4 weeks) Subacute COVID (4-12 weeks) PASC ( > 12 weeks) Viral Phase Host Inflammatory Response Phase s s e n l l I f o y t i r e v e S Pre-symptomatic Phase Day 0 Symptom Onset Day 14 Day 28 Lopez-Leon et al. Sci Rep. 2021;11(1):16144. 203 Symptoms in 10 Organ systems Day 120 Day 84 Day 180 Post-COVID-19 Disease Course Acute Infection (0-4 weeks) Subacute COVID (4-12 weeks) PASC ( > 12 weeks) Viral Phase Host Inflammatory Response Phase End Organ Damage s s e n l l I f o y t i r e v e S Pre-symptomatic Phase Day 0 Symptom Onset Day 14 Day 28 Day 84 Day 120 Day 180 ARDS Acute Kidney Injury Acute Cardiac Injury Post-COVID-19 Disease Course Acute Infection …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Date: March 13, 2026 Recommendation Number 20260313-006 Subject: Budget Recommendation to the City Council Regarding Far Southeast Library Branch Site Selection Motioned By: Vice Chair Chang Seconded By: Chair Kelly WHEREAS, the current Southeast Branch Library is undersized for community demand. The need for a full- service Far Southeast Branch Library is grounded first and foremost in (1) long-standing neighborhood need, (2) obligations to historically underserved residents, and (3) the necessity of accessible, community- serving infrastructure where families already live; WHEREAS, for people with disabilities, libraries are essential access infrastructure—providing assistive technology, inclusive programming, safe indoor space, and digital connectivity. A Far Southeast Branch must be planned with accessibility from the beginning, which requires immediate investment in site selection and predevelopment; and WHEREAS, funding site selection and predevelopment is needed so the community can begin shared investment and fundraising. WHEREAS, the new library should have digital accessibility and assistive technology including computers with screen readers; accessible printers and adaptive equipment; and free internet access for households without reliable service. WHEREAS, the new library should be a safe, climate-controlled public space that can serve as a cooling center; provide a safe daytime space; and serve as a refuge for medically vulnerable residents. WHEREAS, the new library should have inclusive learning and programming including sensory-friendly story times; accessible teen spaces; adult literacy and lifelong learning; and community classes without cost barriers. WHEREAS, the new library should encourage employment and independence through job applications and workforce training; benefits navigation; and quiet, inclusive workspaces. WHEREAS, the new library should encourage social connection and community belonging. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities encourages the Austin City Council to allocate $500,000 for site selection and predevelopment of the Far Southeast Branch Library. The $500,000 should include digital access and assistive technology; safe, climate- controlled public space; inclusive learning and programming; and social connection and community belonging. Date of Approval: March 13, 2026 Record of the vote: 7-0 For: Chair Kelly, Vice Chair Chang, Commissioners: Arellano, Comer-HaGans, Murphy, San Martin, and Slade Against: None Absent: Commissioner Vassallo Attest: Nekaybaw Watson, Staff Liaison
