REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12 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 Elisabeth Meyer, Vice Chair Gabriel Arellano Lisa Chang DeLawnia Comer-HaGans CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA Audrea Diaz Mickey Fetonte Lynn Murphy Elizabeth Slade Kristen Vassallo 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 14, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. Presentation by Gary Aaron, Senior Business Process Consultant, Austin Equity and Inclusion regarding Mapping Opportunity and identifying disparities across different Austin communities. Discussion regarding event mobility accessibility for Texas Tribune Festival and Trail of Lights. 4. Discussion regarding the identification of legislative agenda priorities to share with Austin Government Relations as they prepare for the next Texas and federal congressional sessions. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve the addition of new members to the AWEbility Festival Working Group. 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 upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Nekaybaw Watson or nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov to request service or for additional information. Austin City Clerk’s Office, 512-974-2562 at at For more information on the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities, please contact Nekaybaw Watson at nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov.
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes November 14, 2025 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Friday, November 14, 2025 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular meeting on Friday, November 14, 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 5:31 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Conor Kelly, Chair Gabriel Arellano Audrea Diaz Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Elisabeth Meyer, Vice Chair Lisa Chang DeLawnia Comer-HaGans Lynn Murphy Kristen Vassallo Commissioners Absent: Mickey Fetonte Elizabeth Slade PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Melinda Crockom- Congratulations for the AWEbility Festival success!! APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting minutes on September 12, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes from the meeting of September 12, 2025 on Chair Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Arellano’s second passed on a 7-0 vote. Vice Chair Meyer was off the dais. Commissioners Fetonte and Slade were absent. 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes November 14, 2025 2. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting on July 11, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes from the meeting of September 12, 2025 on Chair Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Vassallo’s second passed on a 7-0 vote. Vice Chair Meyer was off the dais. Commissioners Fetonte and Slade were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Staff briefing regarding therapeutic recreation programs. Presentation by Sara Carlson, Recreation Program Manager, Austin Parks and Recreation and Evan Kessler, Recreation Program Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation. Presentation was provided by Sara Carlson, Recreation Program Manager, Austin Parks and Recreation, Evan Kessler, Recreation Program Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation, and Jodi Jay, Assistant Director, Austin Parks and Recreation. 4. Staff briefing regarding the Digital Accessibility Compliance Project. Presentation by Luisa Apolaya Torres, Senior Service Designer, Austin Technology Services. Presentation was provided by Apolaya Torres, Senior Service Designer, Austin Technology Services. DISCUSSION ITEMS 5. Presentation of AWEbility Festival Awards. Community Award to be presented to ADAPT of Texas. Government Award to be presented to Travis County Services for Deaf. Individual Award to be presented to Hayley Broadway. Awards given. 6. Discussion of the AWEbility WEE Festival regarding a recap of the event. Discussion was held. 7. Discussion regarding the submission of budget priorities to Budget Working Group Members. (Current Members: Chair …
Mapping Opportunity Gary Aaron | Business Process Consultant Sr. Shivani Datar | Business Process Specialist City of Austin's Commitment In every community, there are conditions—some visible, others deeply embedded—that shape how people live, work, and move through the city. Austin is committed to becoming the most livable city for all identities… Mobility Index The City is developing an index to better align department priorities with community priorities. This index will help: Identify neighborhood- level conditions that affect people’s daily lives Identify where barriers to opportunity persist Guide service delivery and decision-making with data and community insight Purposeful Design Neighborhood-level conditions are grouped into themes Reflect core dimensions of community life Organize conditions into actionable categories Identify shared needs and track progress ex. Limited English Proficiency ex. Median Household Income Belonging & Mobility Livelihood & Work Health & Well Being ex. Access to Health Insurance Indicators Health & Wellbeing ⚬ Access to Health Resources ￭ Percent uninsured ￭ Percent of children in poverty ⚬ Functional and Physical Health Context ￭ Residents with a disability ￭ Estimated Annual Loss Due to Environmental Hazard & Weather Livelihood & Work ⚬ Economic Stability Indicators ￭ Median household income ￭ Is this tract in concentrated poverty? ￭ Underemployment rate ⚬ Housing Stability and Cost Burdens ￭ Eviction Rate ￭ Percent living in poverty ￭ Percent of income spent on utilities Belonging & Mobility ⚬ Social Inclusion and Access ￭ Percent of households that speak limited English ￭ Percent of households with no internet access ￭ Percent of population aged 65+ with an ambulatory difficulty ⚬ Education, Environment, and Household Supports ￭ Percent of people with less than a high school diploma ￭ Percent of people with low physical activity ￭ Household Support Risk Score Building Together | Listening to What Matters Most to Our Community ❖What do you see as the most important issues or opportunities in your community today? ❖In your view, what are the key drivers of success or opportunity in your community? ❖What changes would have the greatest impact on mobility and opportunity in your community? Thank You!
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14 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 Elisabeth Meyer, Vice Chair Gabriel Arellano Lisa Chang DeLawnia Comer-HaGans CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Audrea Diaz Mickey Fetonte Lynn Murphy Elizabeth Slade Kristen Vassallo 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. 2. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting on September 12, 2025. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting on July 11, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. Staff briefing regarding therapeutic recreation programs. Presentation by Sara Carlson, Recreation Program Manager, Austin Parks and Recreation and Evan Kessler, Recreation Program Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation. Staff briefing regarding the Digital Accessibility Compliance Project. Presentation by Luisa Apolaya Torres, Senior Service Designer, Austin Technology Services. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Presentation of AWEbility Festival Awards. Community Award to be presented to ADAPT of Texas. Government Award to be presented to Travis County Services for Deaf. Individual Award to be presented to Hayley Broadway. 5. 6. Discussion of the AWEbility WEE Festival regarding a recap of the event. Discussion regarding the submission of budget priorities to Budget Working Group Members. (Current Members: Chair Kelly, Commissioner Chang, and Commissioner Vassallo). DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. 8. Approve a recommendation to Council for support of the Elisabet Ney Museum renovations. Approve the 2026 annual schedule of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities. 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 …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Recommendation Number (20251114-007): Recommendation to the City Council Regarding Elisabet Ney Museum Accessible Restroom Facility WHEREAS, the Elisabet Ney Museum is undergoing restoration and improvements; WHEREAS, the Museum lacks an accessible restroom as described in the Americans with Disabilities Act; WHEREAS, plans have been created for an accessible restroom to be constructed as part of the restoration and improvements, in partnership with the Friends of Elisabet Ney Museum, although funding and support for the addition is still being sought; WHEREAS, the Committee has decided to recommend to the Austin City Council that it support the construction of an ADA accessible restroom to allow all visitors to fully enjoy the Museum. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities encourages the Austin City Council to support the addition of an accessible restroom as part of the Elisabet Ney Museum restoration and improvements. Date of Approval: November 14, 2025 Motion: Chair Conor Kelly Record of the vote: 8-0 Second: Commissioner Kristen Vassallo For: Chair Kelly, Vice Chair Meyer, Commissioners Arellano, Chang, Comer-HaGans, Diaz, Murphy, and Vassallo. Against: None Attest: Nekaybaw Watson Nekaybaw Watson
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes September 12, 2025 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Friday, September 12, 2025 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular meeting on Friday, September 12, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St. Room 1101, Austin, Texas. Chair Kelly called the Mayor’s Committee on People with Disabilities Meeting to order at 5:33 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Conor Kelly, Chair Gabriel Arellano Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Elisabeth Meyer, Vice Chair Lisa Chang DeLawnia Comer-HaGans Mickey Fetonte Lynn Murphy Elizabeth Slade Kristen Vassallo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting minutes on August 8, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes from the meeting of August 8, 2025 on Chair Kelly’s motion with no objection passed on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Fetonte was off the dais. Commissioners Diaz, and Franks were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes September 12, 2025 2. Staff briefing regarding the therapeutic recreation programs being planned and implemented by Evan Kessler, Recreation Program Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation and Rachel Hyde, Recreation Program Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation regarding therapeutic recreation programs their budget needs for more accessible therapeutic recreation programs. Presentation postponed until next meeting. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. Presentation by Ann Graham, Liaison, Friends of Elisabet Ney regarding renovation plans for the Elisabet Ney Museum and their plans to make the space more accessible to patrons. Presentation given by Ann Graham, Liaison, Friends of Elisabet Ney. Update regarding the most recent meeting of the Austin Transit Partnership Community Advisory Committee. Discussion was held. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Update from the October 2025 Disability Event Working Group on community outreach and marketing efforts. Update provided by Commissioner Arellano. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. 8. 9. Formation of a working group regarding the expansion of therapeutic recreation program access and the creation of budget recommendations for therapeutic recreation programs within the Austin Parks and Recreation Department. The motion to approve the formation of a working group to expand therapeutic recreation program access and the creation of budget recommendation for therapeutic recreation programs within the Austin Parks and Recreation Department with Vice Chair Meyer and Commissioners Slade and Vassallo as members was approved on Commissioner Vassallo’s motion, Vice Chair Meyer’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners …
Therapeutic Recreation Services Austin Parks and Recreation ‹#› Therapeutic Recreation Services Provides recreation opportunities for individuals with disabilities throughout the City of Austin. • McBeth Recreation Center • Alamo Recreation Center • Dottie Jordan Recreation Center • Parque Zaragoza Recreation Center • Modifications and Support Therapeutic Recreation Logistics Current Individuals Receiving TR Services • Youth - 472 • Adults - 867 TR Program Employees • 18 Full Time Employees • 16 Certified Recreation Therapists • 47 Temporary Employees providing hands- on support. Therapeutic Recreation PROGRAMS Adult • Adult day programs • Special Olympics • Enrichment • Job Skills Youth & Teens • Youth Therapies • Enrichment • Young Athletes • Summer Camp Special Events • APD Community Connect • Adaptive Field Day • Art in the Park Therapeutic Recreation Modification & Support • Participant Assessment, Modification Planning and Parent review meeting • Youth Program - Support Staffing • After-School, Camp Day & Summer Camp • Inclusion Support Staff Trainings • ASL Interpreters THERAPEUTIC RECREATION IS GROWING RAPIDLY & DEMAND IS OUTPACING OUR ABILITY TO MEET IT. ADDITIONAL INVESTMENTS WOULD ALLOW THERAPEUTIC RECREATION TO ENHANCE CURRENT SERVICES & EXPAND OFFERINGS. Future Growth Opportunities • Materials to implement universally designed spaces & programs across department • Additional adaptive tools and support materials to address ongoing requests for program modifications • Parent and caregiver support and education programs • Development of new enrichment programs (youth, teens, adults) • Expansion of Therapeutic Recreation therapy groups for youth & teens Learn more on our website Austin Parks and Recreation ‹#›
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 …
Digital Accessibility Compliance Project (DACP) Mayor’s Committee for People With Disabilities Friday, November 14th, 2025 Luisa Apolaya Torres Sr. Service Designer @ ATS Communications & Engagement Lead @ DACP Accessibility 5 Es, Core Value of Service: Equity Through the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Title 2, our responsibility as the City of Austin (CoA) is to provide equal access to information and services regardless of a person’s physical or developmental abilities or impairments. 2 Widespread Disability Population 56.7 million Americans (~20% of the U.S. population) have reported some type of disability. The actual number is likely to be larger. 3 Kinds of Disabilities Visual Auditory Cognitive • Conductive hearing loss • Memory impairments • Color blindness • Low vision • Degenerative eyesight loss • Blindness Physical • Paralysis • Muscular and joint Contextual • Browsers and devices • Connectivity • Neural hearing • Learning disabilities conditions loss • Deafness • Attention disorders • Reduced dexterity • Language • Seizure disorders • Nerve injury • Space and context 4 The Department of Justice (DOJ) Ruling On April 24, 2024, the DOJ finalized the rule under Title 2 of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), requiring state and local governments to make web content and mobile applications meet Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA. 5 By April 24, 2026 As communicated in previous memos, under ADA Title 2, the CoA must conform all public- facing digital experiences (websites, apps, attached documents, etc.) to meet DOJ accessibility guidelines. 6 In Scope to DOJ/ Title II Compliance The DoJ rule requires the City’s digital services and content to meet WCAG 2.1 AA conformance with 50 success criteria (30 from level A, 20 from level AA), across all of the following: • Public-facing websites and mobile apps the City provides or controls • Embedded tools and transactions (payments, applications, forms) • Digital documents presented to the public (HTML pages preferred; PDFs when unavoidable) • Audio/video provided to the public (captions; audio description when needed) 7 Out of Scope for DOJ/Title II Compliance AAA level criteria: 28 AAA success criteria in the WCAG 2.1 are not required for AA conformance, and therefore not required for compliance with the DOJ rule. • E.g. Plain language rewrites of all content: while highly beneficial for equity and usability, plain language is criterion for AAA and not for AA. Department-by-department mandates to run disability-inclusive design and testing Instead, …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Recommendation Number (20251114-007): Recommendation to the City Council Regarding Elisabet Ney Museum Accessible Restroom Facility WHEREAS, the Elisabet Ney Museum is undergoing restoration and improvements; WHEREAS, the Museum lacks an accessible restroom as described in the Americans with Disabilities Act; WHEREAS, plans have been created for an accessible restroom to be constructed as part of the restoration and improvements, in partnership with the Friends of Elisabet Ney Museum, although funding and support for the addition is still being sought; WHEREAS, the Committee has decided to recommend to the Austin City Council that it support the construction of an ADA accessible restroom to allow all visitors to fully enjoy the Museum. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities encourages the Austin City Council to support the addition of an accessible restroom as part of the Elisabet Ney Museum restoration and improvements. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________
2026 Annual Meeting Schedule Dates 2nd Friday of Each Month at 5:30PM Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room 1101 Friday, January 9th Friday, February 13th Friday, March 13th Friday, April 10th Friday, May 8th Friday, June 12th Friday, July 10th Friday, August 14th Friday, September 11th Friday, October 9th Friday, November 13th Friday, December 11th
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes November 14, 2025 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Friday, November 14, 2025 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular meeting on Friday, November 14, 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 5:31 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Conor Kelly, Chair Gabriel Arellano Audrea Diaz Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Elisabeth Meyer, Vice Chair Lisa Chang DeLawnia Comer-HaGans Lynn Murphy Kristen Vassallo Commissioners Absent: Mickey Fetonte Elizabeth Slade PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Melinda Crockom- Congratulations for the AWEbility Festival success!! APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting minutes on September 12, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes from the meeting of September 12, 2025 on Chair Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Arellano’s second passed on a 7-0 vote. Vice Chair Meyer was off the dais. Commissioners Fetonte and Slade were absent. 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes November 14, 2025 2. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting on July 11, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes from the meeting of September 12, 2025 on Chair Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Vassallo’s second passed on a 7-0 vote. Vice Chair Meyer was off the dais. Commissioners Fetonte and Slade were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Staff briefing regarding therapeutic recreation programs. Presentation by Sara Carlson, Recreation Program Manager, Austin Parks and Recreation and Evan Kessler, Recreation Program Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation. Presentation was provided by Sara Carlson, Recreation Program Manager, Austin Parks and Recreation, Evan Kessler, Recreation Program Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation, and Jodi Jay, Assistant Director, Austin Parks and Recreation. 4. Staff briefing regarding the Digital Accessibility Compliance Project. Presentation by Luisa Apolaya Torres, Senior Service Designer, Austin Technology Services. Presentation was provided by Apolaya Torres, Senior Service Designer, Austin Technology Services. DISCUSSION ITEMS 5. Presentation of AWEbility Festival Awards. Community Award to be presented to ADAPT of Texas. Government Award to be presented to Travis County Services for Deaf. Individual Award to be presented to Hayley Broadway. Awards given. 6. Discussion of the AWEbility WEE Festival regarding a recap of the event. Discussion was held. 7. Discussion regarding the submission of budget priorities to Budget Working Group Members. (Current Members: Chair …
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Community Interest Announcement AWEbility WEE Festival October 10, 2025 at 5:00PM Austin City Hall, Atrium & Chambers, 301 W 2nd Street A quorum of Commission members may be present. No action will be taken, and no Commission business will occur. Nekaybaw Watson 512-974-2562
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Friday, September 12, 2025, 5:30pm Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room #1101 301 West 2nd Street Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch- atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Nekaybaw Watson, 512-974-2562, nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Conor Kelly, Chair Elisabeth Meyer, Vice Chair Gabriel Arellano Lisa Chang DeLawnia Comer-HaGans Audrea Diaz Mickey Fetonte Jonathan Franks Lynn Murphy Elizabeth Slade Kristen Vassallo AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting on August 8, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the therapeutic recreation programs being planned and implemented by Evan Kessler, Recreation Program Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation and Rachel Hyde, Recreation Program Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation regarding therapeutic recreation programs their budget needs for more accessible therapeutic recreation programs. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. Presentation by Ann Graham, Liaison, Friends of Elisabet Ney regarding renovation plans for the Elisabet Ney Museum and their plans to make the space more accessible to patrons. Update regarding the most recent meeting of the Austin Transit Partnership Community Advisory Committee. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Update from the October 2025 AWEbility Festival Working Group on community outreach and marketing efforts. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. Formation of a working group regarding the expansion of therapeutic recreation program access and the creation of budget recommendations for therapeutic recreation programs within the Austin Parks and Recreation Department. Formation of a Budget Working Group to discuss and create recommendations about the committee’s budget priorities. Approve an update to the membership of the AWEbility Festival Working Group. Approve a Recommendation to Council to allocate funds to cover AWEbility Festival …
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes August 8, 2025 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Friday, August 8, 2025 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular meeting on Friday, August 8, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St. Room 1101, Austin, Texas. Chair Kelly called the Mayor’s Committee on People with Disabilities Meeting to order at 5:40 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Conor Kelly, Chair Gabriel Arellano Kristen Vassallo Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Elisabeth Meyer, Vice Chair Lisa Chang Elizabeth Slade PROCLAMATION Proclamation – 35th American Disability Act Anniversary – Presented by Mayor Kirk Watson PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting minutes on July 11, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes from the meeting of July 11, 2025, failed on Chair Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Chang’s second on an 5-0 vote. Vice Chair Meyer abstained. Commissioners Comer-HaGans, Diaz, Fetonte, Franks and Murphy were absent. 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes August 8, 2025 DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. Presentation from Jetal Bhakta, Pedestrian Crossing Program Manager, Transportation and Public Works and Sheida Carugati, Transportation Planning Engineer, DKS Associates regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plans for Pedestrian Crossings Program and Urban Trails Program. Presentation regarding the ADA Transition Plans for Pedestrian Crossings Program and Urban Trails Program was given by Jetal Bhakta, Pedestrian Crossing Program Manager, Transportation and Public Works and Sheida Carugati, Transportation Planning Engineer, DKS Associates. Update from the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) representative on the work of the committee from the July 2025 meeting. Update provided by Commissioner Chang. Update regarding the most recent meeting of the Austin Transit Partnership Community Advisory Committee. Postponed to the next regular meeting with no objection. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Update from the October 2025 Disability Event Working Group on their most recent meetings and accomplishments. Update provided by Commissioner Arellano. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. 8. Formation of a working group regarding the expansion of therapeutic recreation program access and the creation of budget recommendations for therapeutic recreation programs within the Austin Parks and Recreation Department. Discussed and the working group formation was postponed until the next meeting. Formation of a Budget Working Group to discuss and create recommendations about the committee’s budget priorities. The motion to approve the formation of a Budget …
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250912-XX4 Date: September 12, 2025 Subject: Marketing Strategy and Distribution of Flyers Motioned By: Gabriel Arellano Seconded By: _____________ Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends developing a marketing strategy, including flyer distribution and social media outreach, with necessary approvals from the City of Austin. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Create and distribute event flyers. ● Develop social media posts to promote the awards event. ● Obtain approval from the City of Austin prior to posting on official channels. Rationale: A coordinated marketing strategy increases visibility, boosts community participation, and ensures compliance with City communication policies. Vote For: ___ Against: ___ Abstain: ___ Absent: ___ Attest: ___________________________
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250912-XX1 Date: September 12, 2025 Subject: Recognition of Three Awardees at Upcoming Event Motioned By: Gabriel Arellano Seconded By: _____________ Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends recognizing three awardees at the upcoming event. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Community Award: ADAPT of Texas ● Government Award: Travis County Services for the Deaf ● Individual Award: Hayley Broadway Rationale: Recognition of outstanding contributions strengthens community engagement, highlights leadership in accessibility, and aligns with the City’s equity and inclusion priorities. Vote For: ___ Against: ___ Abstain: ___ Absent: ___ Attest: ___________________________
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250912-XX3 Date: September 12, 2025 Subject: Request for Official EIN Verification Letter from Financial Services Motioned By: Gabriel Arellano Seconded By: _____________ Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends requesting an official letter from the City’s Financial Services Team verifying the City of Austin’s EIN, to support sponsorship applications. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Direct Financial Services Team to issue an EIN verification letter for sponsorship purposes. Rationale: A verified EIN letter is required to complete sponsorship applications and secure financial support for Committee programming and events. Vote For: ___ Against: ___ Abstain: ___ Absent: ___ Attest: ___________________________
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250912-XX2 Date: September 12, 2025 Subject: Approval of Budget for Awards Event Motioned By: Gabriel Arellano Seconded By: _____________ Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends allocating funds to cover event costs. Description of Recommendation to Council ● 3 Trophies – $200 ● Catering Service – $1,014 ● TOTAL – $1,215 Rationale: Budget allocation ensures the success of the awards event by funding essential items, recognizing honorees, and providing accessibility to attendees. Vote For: ___ Against: ___ Abstain: ___ Absent: ___ Attest: ___________________________
Elisabet Ney Museum VISION : 2025-26 CAPITAL CAMPAIGN FOR MUSEUM IMPROVEMENTS AND ACCESSIBILITY Creating a transformative experience for museum visitors and the Austin community. VISION The museum is more inclusive, accessible, and engaging for all visitors while preserving its historic value. The improvements enhance both the physical space and the visitor experience. PROJECT GOALS PRESERVE To preserve historic Formosa, the world’s largest collection of Ney’s artworks, and key wilderness elements of the property while updating access, safety, climate control, and gathering places. PROJECT GOALS REIMAGINE To use the interpretive and landscape plans in a holistic and forward-looking way, with an aim for sustainability and broadening the experience for visitors to engage with Ney’s life work, artistic process, lived experience, world view, and the symbolism of her story against the backdrop of tomorrow. PROJECT GOALS INSPIRE To make museum visitors feel welcome, inspired, and reinvigorated.
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250912-009 Date: September 12, 2025 Subject: Approval of Budget for Awards Event Motioned By: Conor Kelly Seconded By: Lynn Murphy Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends allocating funds to cover event costs. Description of Recommendation to Council ● 3 Trophies – $200 ● Catering Service – $1,014 ● TOTAL – $1,215 Rationale: Budget allocation ensures the success of the awards event by funding essential items, recognizing honorees, and providing accessibility to attendees. Vote 9-0 For: Chair Kelly, Vice Chair Meyer, Commissioners Arellano, Chang, Comer-HaGans, Fetonte, Murphy, Slade, and Vassallo Against:None Abstain: None Absent: Diaz and Franks Attest: Nekaybaw Watson
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250912-010 Date: September 12, 2025 Subject: Marketing Strategy and Distribution of Flyers Motioned By: Conor Kelly Seconded By: Gabriel Arellano Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends developing a marketing strategy, including flyer distribution and social media outreach, with necessary approvals from the City of Austin. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Create and distribute event flyers. ● Develop social media posts to promote the awards event. ● Obtain approval from the City of Austin prior to posting on official channels. Rationale: A coordinated marketing strategy increases visibility, boosts community participation, and ensures compliance with City communication policies. Vote 9-0 For: Chair Kelly, Vice Chair Meyer, Commissioners Arellano, Chang, Comer-HaGans, Fetonte, Murphy, Slade, and Vassallo Against:None Abstain:None Absent:Diaz and Franks Attest: Nekaybaw Watson
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250912-011 Date: September 12, 2025 Subject: Recognition of Three Awardees at Upcoming Event Motioned By: Gabriel Arellano Seconded By: Conor Kelly Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends recognizing three awardees at the upcoming event. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Community Award: ADAPT of Texas ● Government Award: Travis County Services for the Deaf ● Individual Award: Hayley Broadway Rationale: Recognition of outstanding contributions strengthens community engagement, highlights leadership in accessibility, and aligns with the City’s equity and inclusion priorities. Vote 9-0 For: Chair Kelly, Vice Chair Meyer, Commissioners Arellano, Chang, Comer-HaGans, Fetonte, Murphy, Slade, and Vassallo Against:None Abstain:None Absent:Diaz and Franks Attest: Nekaybaw Watson
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes September 12, 2025 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Friday, September 12, 2025 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular meeting on Friday, September 12, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St. Room 1101, Austin, Texas. Chair Kelly called the Mayor’s Committee on People with Disabilities Meeting to order at 5:33 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Conor Kelly, Chair Gabriel Arellano Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Elisabeth Meyer, Vice Chair Lisa Chang DeLawnia Comer-HaGans Mickey Fetonte Lynn Murphy Elizabeth Slade Kristen Vassallo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting minutes on August 8, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes from the meeting of August 8, 2025 on Chair Kelly’s motion with no objection passed on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Fetonte was off the dais. Commissioners Diaz, and Franks were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes September 12, 2025 2. Staff briefing regarding the therapeutic recreation programs being planned and implemented by Evan Kessler, Recreation Program Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation and Rachel Hyde, Recreation Program Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation regarding therapeutic recreation programs their budget needs for more accessible therapeutic recreation programs. Presentation postponed until next meeting. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. Presentation by Ann Graham, Liaison, Friends of Elisabet Ney regarding renovation plans for the Elisabet Ney Museum and their plans to make the space more accessible to patrons. Presentation given by Ann Graham, Liaison, Friends of Elisabet Ney. Update regarding the most recent meeting of the Austin Transit Partnership Community Advisory Committee. Discussion was held. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Update from the October 2025 Disability Event Working Group on community outreach and marketing efforts. Update provided by Commissioner Arellano. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. 8. 9. Formation of a working group regarding the expansion of therapeutic recreation program access and the creation of budget recommendations for therapeutic recreation programs within the Austin Parks and Recreation Department. The motion to approve the formation of a working group to expand therapeutic recreation program access and the creation of budget recommendation for therapeutic recreation programs within the Austin Parks and Recreation Department with Vice Chair Meyer and Commissioners Slade and Vassallo as members was approved on Commissioner Vassallo’s motion, Vice Chair Meyer’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners …
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]
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250808-009 Date: August 8, 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: Commissioner Arellano Seconded By: Chair Kelly 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. ● Ensure accessible public transportation serves the community. 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: 6-0 For: Chair Kelly, Vice Chair Meyer, Commissioners Arellano, Chang, Slade, and Vassallo Against: Abstain: Absent: Commissioners Comer-HaGans, Diaz, Fetonte, Franks, and Murphy Attest: Nekaybaw Watson
MAYOR'S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250808-010 Date: August 8, 2025 Subject: Partnership with the Texas Governor's Committee on People with Disabilities Motioned By: Chair Kelly Seconded By:Vice Chair Meyer 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: 6-0 For: Chair Kelly, Vice Chair Meyer, Commissioners Arellano, Chang, Slade, and Vassallo Against: Abstain: Absent: Commissioners Comer-HaGans, Diaz, Fetonte, Franks, and Murphy Attest: Nekaybaw Watson 1 of 1
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes August 8, 2025 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Friday, August 8, 2025 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular meeting on Friday, August 8, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St. Room 1101, Austin, Texas. Chair Kelly called the Mayor’s Committee on People with Disabilities Meeting to order at 5:40 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Conor Kelly, Chair Gabriel Arellano Kristen Vassallo Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Elisabeth Meyer, Vice Chair Lisa Chang Elizabeth Slade PROCLAMATION Proclamation – 35th American Disability Act Anniversary – Presented by Mayor Kirk Watson PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting minutes on July 11, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes from the meeting of July 11, 2025, failed on Chair Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Chang’s second on an 5-0 vote. Vice Chair Meyer abstained. Commissioners Comer-HaGans, Diaz, Fetonte, Franks and Murphy were absent. 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes August 8, 2025 DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. Presentation from Jetal Bhakta, Pedestrian Crossing Program Manager, Transportation and Public Works and Sheida Carugati, Transportation Planning Engineer, DKS Associates regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plans for Pedestrian Crossings Program and Urban Trails Program. Presentation regarding the ADA Transition Plans for Pedestrian Crossings Program and Urban Trails Program was given by Jetal Bhakta, Pedestrian Crossing Program Manager, Transportation and Public Works and Sheida Carugati, Transportation Planning Engineer, DKS Associates. Update from the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) representative on the work of the committee from the July 2025 meeting. Update provided by Commissioner Chang. Update regarding the most recent meeting of the Austin Transit Partnership Community Advisory Committee. Postponed to the next regular meeting with no objection. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Update from the October 2025 Disability Event Working Group on their most recent meetings and accomplishments. Update provided by Commissioner Arellano. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. 8. Formation of a working group regarding the expansion of therapeutic recreation program access and the creation of budget recommendations for therapeutic recreation programs within the Austin Parks and Recreation Department. Discussed and the working group formation was postponed until the next meeting. Formation of a Budget Working Group to discuss and create recommendations about the committee’s budget priorities. The motion to approve the formation of a Budget …
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
