REGULAR MEETING of the ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL Monday, March 3rd, 2025, at 6:00 PM Virtual Meeting Members of the ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL may participate by video conference. Public comment will be allowed remotely via video conference or telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item 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 participation. To register to speak, call or email AIPP Program Manager Jaime Castillo at jaime.castillo@austintexas.gov, (512) 974-7852. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Chair – Stephanie Lemmo, Vice Chair – J Muzacz, Andrew Danziger, Taylor Davis, Bernardo Diaz, Kristi-Anne Shaer, Monica Maldonado – Arts Commission Liaison CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 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 minutes of the Art in Public Places Panel Regular Meeting on February 3rd, 2025. Discussion of Arts Commission Liaison Report on Action Items from February 17th, 2025, Arts Commissions Meeting by Arts Commission Liaison Maldonado DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. ACTION: Approve the Final Design for the Brush Square Art in Public Places Project – George Sabra ACTION: Approve Artist Selection Recommendations for Red Bud Isle Art in Public Places Project – Emily Eisenhart Recommended Artist, and Philippe Klinefelter Recommended Alternate Artist 4. 5. 6. ACTION: Approve Artist Selection Recommendations for Armadillo Water Tank Art in Public Places Project – Bill Tavis Recommended Artist, Candy Kuo Recommended Alternate Artist, and Efren Rebugio Recommended Third Alternate Artist ACTION: Approve the 2025-2028 Art in Public Places Pre-Qualified Texas Public Artist Pool Request for Qualifications DISCUSSION: Guidelines Working Group updates Art in Public Places Staff Briefing on Conservation, Current Projects, and Milestones 7. STAFF BRIEFINGS 8. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please contact AIPP Program Manager Jaime Castillo at jaime.castillo@austintexas.gov or (512) 974- 7852 for additional information; TTY users' route through Relay Texas …
REGULAR MEETING of the ARTS COMMISSION February 24, 2025, at 6:00 PM Austin Energy, Mueller Assembly Rm 1111a (115). 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723 Some members of the ARTS COMMISSION 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 Jesús Varela at jesus.varela@austintexas.gov or at 512-974-2444. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Celina Zisman - Chair, Heidi Schmalbach - Vice Chair, Keyheira Keys, Monica Maldonado, Felipe Garza, Gina Houston, Acia Gray, Faiza Kracheni, Amy Mok, Nagavalli Medicharla AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 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 Arts Commission Regular Meeting on January 27, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion on DEI words that will no longer allowed to be used by the Trump administration by Chair Zisman 3. Report of the Art in Public Places Liaison concerning actions taking during the February 3rd meeting of the Art in Public Places Panel by Commissioner Maldonado 4. Update on actions taken at the January 15th Downtown Commission meeting by Commissioner Mok STAFF BRIEFINGS 5. Staff briefing regarding the establishment of the Office of Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment by Matthew Schmidt, Acting Cultural Arts Division Manager 6. Staff briefing regarding an update on the Hotel Occupancy Tax by Matthew Schmidt, Acting Cultural Arts Division Manager 7. Staff briefing on the Cultural Arts Funding Programs by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 8. Action to Approve Request for Qualification for the Asian American Resource Center Art in Public Places Project 9. Action to Approve Final Design for the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport Terminal Expansion Phase (TEP) II “A” Art in Public Places Project 10. Discussion and possible action on recommendation for the evolution of the Cultural Arts Grants in 2025 and beyond, after presentation by Commissioner Medicharla, on behalf of the CAD Grants Working Group 11. Discussion and possible action on …
Office of Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment Update Arts Commission Meeting February 24, 2025 Office of Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment Established February 24, 2025, ACME focuses on sustaining and growing Austin’s creative sector Implements recommendation of CreateAustin Cultural Master Plan • Principal Recommendation #3: Create a City Department of Arts and Culture Inaugural Director: Angela Means Impacted Departments/Divisions: • Aviation: Music & Events; Austin Public Library: Heritage Centers; Economic Development: Cultural Arts, AIPP; Parks & Recreation: Cultural Centers, Office of Special Events, Heritage Tourism; Development Services: Austin Center for Events, Entertainment Services • Streamlines staff coordination, provides a more cohesive and accessible experience for stakeholders and amplifies the reach and effectiveness of joint initiatives • • • • Goals: C I T Y O F A U S T I N Questions? C I T Y O F A U S T I N
Hotel Occupancy Tax Update Arts Commission Meeting February 24, 2025 Hotel Occupancy Tax – January 2025 • Total HOT Collections January 2025 = $29,682,604 • 36% of FY25 Approved Budget of $169,901,585 • Cultural Arts Fund January 2025 = $2,834,604 C I TY O F A U S T I N HOT Cultural Arts Fund - FY25 C I TY O F A U S T I N Approved Budget for FY25: $16,217,879 FY25 HOT Cultural Arts Fund to date: $5,892,855 HOT Collections (FY22 – FY25) C I TY O F A U S T I N Questions? C I TY O F A U S T I N
Cultural Arts Funding Update February 24, 2025 Agenda 1. Contracts & Payments 2. FY 25 Cultural Funding Updates 3. Grant Funded Activities C I T Y O F A U S T I N Contracts & Payments FY23 Elevate FY23 Nexus (Fall/Winter) FY24 Nexus (Spring/ Summer) FY23-24 Thrive (Year 1) FY23-24 Thrive (Year 2) Contracts & Payments (As of 2/21/25) Total Contracts Signed & Processed Contracts Test payments issued & verified Payment 1 Issued Payment 2 Issued Payment 3 Issued 199 199 (100%) 199 (100%) 199 (100%) 196 (98%) 155 (78%) 51 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 49 (96%) n/a 51 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 51 (100%) n/a 36 36 (100%) 36 (100%) 36 (100%) 36 (100%) n/a See year 1 N/A N/A 35 (97%) 35 (100%) n/a Total Dist. to date Total Allocation $6,005,942 (96%) $6,250,000 $254,000 (99%) $255,000 $255,000 (100%) $255,000 $3,901,500 (100%) $3,901,500 (100%) $3,901,500 $3,901,500 *Each grant has a different reporting deadline. Final Payments are issued upon successful close out of Final Report. C I T Y O F A U S T I N FY 25 Cultural Funding Updates Cultural Funding Program Update Staff have determined the need for an intentional timeline shift for Cultural Funding Programs (Elevate) Established Goals within Timeline Shift • Maintain Goals established during Cultural Funding Review Process (Pilot Year 3) • Address Legislative Impacts (State/Federal) • Meaningfully Engage Community and Commission • Limit Potential Funding Disruptions Goal Launch: Early Fall 2025 C I T Y O F A U S T I N Speak Up Austin 1. https://publicinput.com/x76220 2. Open through July 2025 C I T Y O F A U S T I N January Responses C I T Y O F A U S T I N FY 25 Nexus Timeline January 28, 2025 May 1, 2025 May 30, 2026 Nexus application opens Nexus activities begin Latest Nexus Final Report due date Nexus application closes Last day for Nexus activities March 6, 2025 April 30, 2026 C I T Y O F A U S T I N Grant Funded Activities FY23-24 Cultural Funding Grantee Activities Irene Antonia Diane Reece • January 18 – March 4 • Women & Their Work – Women & Their Work (Dist 4) 7th Annual Fresh Squeezed Ounce of Opera • February 21 – March 2 • One Ounce Opera – dadaLab (Dist 4) The Art of Taxes • February …
•Project: Asian American Resource Center •Artist: TBD •Phase: ACTION: Approve Request for Qualifications •Sponsoring Department: Parks & Recreation •Project Budget: $90,000 •Council District: District 1 •Project Manager: Lindsay Hutchens Arts Commission Meeting 02/24/2025 Asian American Resource Center 8401 Cameron Rd, Austin, TX 78754 Project Background The Asian American Resource Center Pavilion project centers around the development of a multipurpose pavilion that integrates with the existing great lawn. The pavilion is envisioned as a flexible, year-round venue designed to host a variety of small to medium-sized programs and events. Key planned features include a performance area, accessible amenities, and supporting infrastructure for diverse community activities. This project is designed to provide a high-quality, versatile space that meets the diverse needs of its users and emphasizes sustainability. 2D or 3D artwork Austin area artists Asian American Resource Center AIPP on-site Lotus, 2013, ceramic tile and granite Sunyong Chung and Philippe Klinefelter AIPP in the area Gus Garcia Recreation Center Building Community, 2023 painted mural Lindsey Millikin Tribute to Gus Garcia, 2008 steel and stone Lars Stanley Georgian Acres Park To Be Together, 2023, aluminum stainless steel, paint Kemba Opio St. John's Pocket Park St. John Community Pillar, 2021 concrete, steel, acrylic paint Damon Moseley St. Johns Community Center Community Core Sample Project, 2002, mixed media Threshold Project, 2002, marble Beverly Penn and Steve Wiman EMS Station 14 Sky Gates, 2013 aluminum, brass, copper, glass Peter Mangan OPEN CALL TO ARTISTS Public Art Opportunity Asian American Resource Center - City of Austin Art in Public Places project, District 1 City of Austin (Texas): Art in Public Places (AIPP) Call open – May 20, 2025 Deadline for Submissions – June 26, 2025, time TBD Submit all information via TBC Description The City of Austin Art in Public Places program (AIPP) of the Cultural Arts Division, Economic Development Department (EDD) seeks to commission one professional visual artist or artist-led team to design, fabricate and install two and/or three-dimensional exterior artwork at the Asian American Resource Center at 8401 Cameron Rd, Austin, TX 78754. Public Artwork Goals • A work of art of redeeming quality that advances public understanding of visual art and enhances • Conceptualizes a strong overall artwork design approach that integrates with the site the aesthetic quality of public places and surrounding natural environment • Speaks to and represents the Asian American experience in Austin, Texas, including o Diaspora, migration o Belonging, setting …
• Project: Terminal Expansion Phase (TEP) II A • Artist(s): Beili Liu • Phase: Final Design Review • Sponsoring Department: Aviation • Project Budget: $200,000 • Council District: District 2 • Project Manager: Alex Irrera DATE:02/24 /2025 ARTS COMMIS SION ME ETING AGE NDA ITEM TEP II A Recent Project Timeline: ➢ August 2023 – Mid-Design Review at AIPP Panel ➢ September 2023 – Final Design Package submitted ➢ April 2024 – Site change ➢ May 2024 – Budget increase from $155K to $200K ➢ September 2024 – Staff update to AIPP Panel ➢ December 2024 – Revised Final Design Package submitted ➢ January 2025 – Permitting/Fire Review and AUS Review of Revised Final Design ➢ February 2025 – AIPP Panel & Arts Commission Review of Revised Final Design Original Site: Exit of the elevated International Corridor and above the main escalator and staircase within the FIS/CBP area TEP II A New Site: High ceiling triangle nook and clerestory volume by Gate 15 (approximate area shown) Convergence / Austin AUS Terminal Expansion Phase II AIPP Project Final Design Presentation Beili Liu Studio Lure/Rise Chinese Culture Foundation of San Francisco Thread, needle, dimensions variable Narrative The Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is one of the fastest-growing airports in our nation, reflecting the impressive growth and increasing allure of our beloved city of Austin as an eclectic culture, arts, and technology destination. Serving both Austin residents and travelers around the world, the AUS Terminal Expansion Phase II accommodates an additional four million passengers and supports the AUS Airport’s mission to be the “Gateway to the World for All.” Convergence / Austin is a site-responsive public art installation that reflects and responds to the purpose, growth, and excellence of the Austin-Bergstrom Airport. Visual Impact The ascending, fluid rhythm of the artwork invokes the intricate and interconnected balance among diverse individuals and the powerful force that emerges when we come together to form an ever-evolving and energetic community. Convergence / Austin encourages travelers to take a moment to slow down—to observe and contemplate, to connect and share. Rendering Full View Artwork overlaid on the Fire suppression plan Artwork overlaid on the Fire suppression plan (zoomed in) Artwork overlaid on the Mezzanine Floorplan 44'7" floor tobottom of beam50'2" floorto ceiling45'5" floor tobottom of beam18'5" floor tobottom of panel21'3" floor to bottomof window frame33'-6"40'30'18'-7"18'-6"18'-9"10"12"412" Ceiling Suspension Structure • • • Footprint of artwork: 16’x 12‘, updated to fit …
RECOMMENDATION FOR EVOLVING THE CURRENT CULTURAL ARTS GRANTS PROGRAM FRAMEWORK Recommenda�on from the 2025 CAD Grants Working group PARTICIPANTS Arts Commissioners Community members RECOMMENDATION RE-DEFINE PROGRAMS Acia Gray, Gina Houston, Faiza Kracheni, Monica Maldanado, Nagavalli Medicharla (Chair, Working Group) Bonnie Cullum (Vortex), Candyce Rusk (Individual ar�st, crea�ve + business writer), John Riedi (Aus�n Crea�ve Alliance), Matrex Kilgore (Individual ar�st, Theatre/Arts educa�on, TCA background), Toni Bravo (DiverseSpace Dance Theatre), Anne Charlote Paterson (Individual ar�st, Dance, Music Commission), Celeste Quesada (Non-profit/film, Music Commission) ** Sections highlighted in yellow indicate that there was difference of approach/opinion on the item within the working group • THRIVE (biennial): Two Year Opera�onal Support to help arts nonprofits get to ins�tu�onal • ELEVATE (annual): Annual Project-based Support for arts nonprofits, art groups, and • Nexus (semi-annual): Semi-annual / short term Project-based Support for arts nonprofits, status o Emerging o Established / Legacy independent ar�sts. o Note: Removed “creative businesses” independent ar�sts, and art groups o Note: Removed “creative businesses” RE-DEFINE APPLICANT ELIGIBILITY Thrive: • Arts Nonprofits crea�ve history for the past 5 years • Org opera�onal budget min. $50K in the past year Elevate: • Organiza�on should be registered as an arts non-profit for min. 5 years and have demonstrated • Arts Non-profits • Independent Ar�sts o Organiza�on should be registered as a non-profit for min. 3 years and have demonstrated crea�ve history for the past 3 years o Demonstrated crea�ve history for the past 2 years o Require fiscal sponsorship Fiscal sponsorship fee limited to 10% of grant or less Sponsoring en��es should meet accepted standards for sponsoring qualifica�ons - separa�on of funds, financial processes mee�ng GAAP, do not share staff with sponsored projects, etc. • All applicants need 50% matching funds incl. IN KIND or possible staff explora�on of ques�ons that would highlight this community engagement • Arts Group o Demonstrated crea�ve history for the past 2 years o Require fiscal sponsorship Fiscal sponsorship fee limited to 10% of grant or less Sponsoring en��es should meet accepted standards for sponsoring qualifica�ons - separa�on of funds, financial processes mee�ng GAP, do not share staff with sponsored project, etc • All applicants need 50% matching funds incl. in kind or staff explora�on of ques�ons that would highlight community engagement Nexus: • Independent ar�sts • Arts groups • Arts Nonprofits • Demonstrated crea�ve history for the past 1 year • No fiscal sponsorship requirement …
1. 2. 4. 5. REGULAR MEETING of the ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL Monday, February 3rd, 2025, at 6:00 PM Virtual Meeting Members of the ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL may participate by video conference. Public comment will be allowed remotely via video conference or telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item 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 participation. To register to speak, call or email AIPP Program Manager Jaime Castillo at jaime.castillo@austintexas.gov, (512) 974-7852. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Chair – Stephanie Lemmo, Vice Chair – J Muzacz, Andrew Danziger, Taylor Davis, Bernardo Diaz, Kristi-Anne Shaer, Monica Maldonado – Arts Commission Liaison CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 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 Approve minutes of the Art in Public Places Panel Regular Meeting on January 13th, 2025. Approve minutes of the Art in Public Places Panel Special Called Meeting on January 14th, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of Arts Commission Liaison Report on Action Items from January 27th, 2025, Arts Commissions Meeting by Arts Commission Liaison Maldonado Discussion of Mid/ Concept Design for Montopolis Pool Art in Public Places Project – Britt Johnson Discussion of Mid/ Concept Design for Faulk History Center Art in Public Places Project – Suzy Gonzalez DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. ACTION: Approve Final Design for the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport Terminal Expansion Phase (TEP) II A Art in Public Places Project – Beili Liu ACTION: Approve Request for Qualifications for the Asian American Resource Center Art in Public Places Project Art in Public Places Staff Briefing on Conservation, Current Projects, and Milestones STAFF BRIEFINGS 8. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please contact AIPP Program Manager Jaime Castillo at jaime.castillo@austintexas.gov or (512) 974- 7852 for additional information; TTY users' route through Relay Texas at 711.
REGULAR MEETING of the ARTS COMMISSION January 27, 2025, at 6:00 PM Austin Energy, Mueller Assembly Rm 1111a (115). 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723 Some members of the ARTS COMMISSION 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 Jesús Varela at jesus.varela@austintexas.gov or at 512-974-2444. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Celina Zisman - Chair, Heidi Schmalbach - Vice Chair, Keyheira Keys, Monica Maldonado, Felipe Garza, Gina Houston, Acia Gray, Faiza Kracheni, Amy Mok, Nagavalli Medicharla AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 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 Arts Commission Regular Meeting on December 16, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion of Chair’s Report on Happy New Year by Chair Zisman 3. Report of the Art in Public Places Liaison concerning actions taking during the January 14th meeting of the Art in Public Places Panel by Commissioner Maldonado 4. Update on actions taken at the January 15th Downtown Commission meeting by Commissioner Mok STAFF BRIEFINGS 5. Staff briefing regarding the upcoming State Legislative Session by Carrie Roger, Intergovernmental Relations Officer 6. Staff briefing regarding an update on the Hotel Occupancy Tax by Jesús Pantel, Cultural 7. Staff briefing on the Cultural Arts Funding Programs by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Funding Supervisor Supervisor DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 8. Discussion & Possible Action on update on MEASURE report by Meme Styles, Dr. Tiffany Ricks, Hanna Chun, and LaCole Foots 9. Action to Approve Request for Qualification for the St. John Site Redevelopment Art in Public Places Project – Reginald Adams 10. Action to Approve Final Design for Longhorn Dam Bridge Art in Public Places Project – 11. Action to Approve Final Design for Beverly Sheffield Pool Art in Public Places Project – 12. Action to Approve Final Design for Highland Neighborhood Park Art in Public Places 13. Action to Approve Final Design for South …
REGULAR MEETING of the ARTS COMMISSION January 27, 2025, at 6:00 PM Austin Energy, Mueller Assembly Rm 1111a (115). 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723 Some members of the ARTS COMMISSION 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 Jesús Varela at jesus.varela@austintexas.gov or at 512-974-2444. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Celina Zisman - Chair, Heidi Schmalbach - Vice Chair, Keyheira Keys, Monica Maldonado, Felipe Garza, Gina Houston, Acia Gray, Faiza Kracheni, Amy Mok, Nagavalli Medicharla AGENDA ADDENDUM DISCUSSION ITEMS 17. Presentation by Zac Traeger from Museum of Human Achievement on MOHA ~ state of the arts (process, grants, etc)
Who do you think you are? What are your intentions with my daughter? ● I’m gonna meander a bit, but it all is connected ● Values ● SB689 and Nexus The Context ● Generosity of spirit ● Remember the good things and use these ● “Turn your fucking head” - Deborah Hay Why are we being weird about this? ● Staff - speak clearly ● Commission - use this ● Remember core values ● The machine is old and rigid What if? ● SB689 ● New Words and Tactics SB689 and Nexus ● Prepare testimonials, advocate to those who understand the systems ● Multiple choice grants ● Triangulation ● Greenlining / Qualified Census Tracts ● Ask for what you need Nexus Pt 2 ● Rapid change as a barrier to upward mobility ● Fiscal Sponsorship can be good! ● Lower grant amounts ● Sharing and support should be encouraged ● Using reference points like the NEA, TCA, Creative Capital Three Takeaways -Think about economics thoughtfully and consider the individual impacts of generalization, how to consider the economic and social conditions of the individual and communities. -Words are imprecise, but intentions can be clear, let’s get to what is real and what lives behind the words. Use the intent instead of the word itself. Use language as a description outside of popular or en vogue vocabulary. -Key to solving problems is to consider community as a partner throughout the process.
89TH STATE LEGISLATIVE SESSION Rick Ramirez, Deputy Intergovernmental Relations Officer Intergovernmental Relations Office Agenda • Legislative Team & Legislative Agenda • 89th Session Overview • Key City Issues & Bills • Key Bills of Interest to the Commission 2 City of Austin Legislative Team Carrie Rogers Intergovernmental Relations Officer Carrie.Rogers@austintexas.gov 512.923.7577 cell Rick Ramirez Deputy Officer – Legislative Rick.Ramirez2@austintexas.gov 737.218.3668 cell Local / Regional Administrator Deputy Officer Grants / Legislative Funding Alison Ross Legislative Relations Senior Coordinator Alison.Ross@austintexas.gov 512.680.3631 cell Legislative Relations Senior Coordinator Valerie Gomez Coordinator Valerie.Gomez@austintexas.gov 512.689.8256 cell Annabel Osburn Grants Strategic Program Analyst Grant Writer Grant Writer 3 Legislative Agendas: At a Glance Legislative program focuses on primary City priorities: • Preserve Local Authority: Protect Austin’s control over zoning, ordinances, and local regulations, and ensure cities have appropriate tools to meet housing affordability challenges. • Financial Responsibility: Oppose unfunded state mandates or legislation that would place undue financial burdens on the City. • Community Health & Safety: Support access to healthcare, public safety funding, improved quality of life and protections for vulnerable populations. • Environmental & Infrastructure Resilience: Protect Austin’s natural resources, encourage sustainability, and invest in critical infrastructure. 4 Overarching Issues Influencing the 89th session Politically Charged, Overarching Issues Influencing the 89th session • Election results: New Administration • New House Speaker • New House Rules & Committees • School Finance / School Vouchers • Power Grid 5 State Leadership in the 89th Session The “Big Three” House & Senate Chambers Republicans will control House and Senate in the 89th Session Governor Greg Abbott Elected by voters for a four-year term. Not up for reelection this cycle. Lt. Governor Dan Patrick Elected by voters for a four-year term. Not up for reelection this cycle. House Speaker Dustin Burrows Elected by Texas House every two- years on 1st day of the regular session Speaker Burrows elected House Speaker for the 89th Session 89th Session • Senate 20 Republicans, 11 Democrats *3 Freshmen • House 88 Republicans, 62 Democrats *31 Freshmen 6 Changes in the House New Speaker • Dustin Burrows (R-Lubbock) New House Rules • No Minority Party Committee Chairs • No Majority Party Committee Vice Chairs • New Authority for Vice Chairs • 2 New Standing Committees • 6 Standing Committees Abolished • 11 New Standing Subcommittees New Members • 31 Freshman House Members – the most since 83rd Session in 2013 7 89th Bill Statistics …
HOTEL OCCUPANCY TAX UPDATE JANUARY 27, 2025 C IT Y O F A U S T IN EC O N O M IC D EV ELO P M E N T 1 Hotel Occupancy Tax – November 2024 o Note: Disruptions delayed updated reporting o Total HOT Collections November 2024 = $5,806,193 o 18% of FY25 Approved Budget of $169,901,585 o Cultural Arts Fund November 2024 = $559,306 HOT Cultural Arts Fund - FY25 Approved Budget for FY25: $16,217,879 FY25 HOT Cultural Arts Fund to date: $2,997,205 HOT Collections (FY22-FY24) $15.65M $15.57M $12.87M Questions
Cultural Arts Funding Update Economic Development Department January 27, 2025 C I T Y O F A U S T I N Agenda 1. Contracts & Payments 2. FY 25 Nexus Update 3. Grant Funded Activities C I T Y O F A U S T I N Contracts & Payments Contracts & Payments (As of 1/24/25) FY23 Elevate FY23 Nexus (Fall/Winter) FY24 Nexus (Spring/ Summer) FY23-24 Thrive (Year 1) FY23-24 Thrive (Year 2) Total Contracts Signed & Processed Contracts Test payments issued & verified Payment 1 Issued Payment 2 Issued Payment 3 Issued 199 199 (100%) 199 (100%) 199 (100%) 196 (98%) 155 (78%) 51 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 49 (96%) n/a 51 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 44 (86%) n/a 36 36 (100%) 36 (100%) 36 (100%) 36 (100%) n/a See year 1 N/A N/A 35 (97%) 2 (6%) n/a Total Dist. to date Total Allocation $5,811,750 (93%) $6,250,000 $254,000 (99%) $255,000 $251,500 (98%) $255,000 $3,901,500 (100%) $3,362,000 (86%) $3,901,500 $3,901,500 *Each grant has a different reporting deadline. Final Payments are issued upon successful close out of Final Report. C I T Y O F A U S T I N FY 25 Nexus Update FY 25 Nexus Timeline January 28, 2025 May 1, 2025 May 30, 2026 Nexus application opens Nexus activities begin Latest Nexus Final Report due date Nexus application closes Last day for Nexus activities March 6, 2025 April 30, 2026 C I T Y O F A U S T I N Grant Overview The Nexus program is designed to nurture new and emerging applicants in the creative community. This program funds art and culture activities of all kinds. Nexus will prioritize applicants who are economically disadvantaged. Applicants who have never received City of Austin Cultural Funding awards in the last five years $5,000 100 Awards (this is not a limit) of $5,000 C I T Y O F A U S T I N What's New? Previous Nexus Grant Application New Nexus Grant Application Two Cycles per year One Cycle Per Year Up to 6 months contract Up to 12 months contract Narrative Questions Scored by City of Austin Staff Multiple Choice Questions with some short answer responses, up to 4 work samples Auto-calculations in the Submittable platform, Cultural Funding Staff and our Third-Party administrators, The Long Center. C I T Y O F A U S T I N …
Maximizing Impact Evaluating Austin’s Hotel Occupancy Tax- Funded Programs TABLE OF CONTENTS Who We Are Purpose of the Evaluation Methodology Quantitative Findings Qualitative Findings Theory of Change Wrap Up W E A R E A B L A C K W O M A N - L E D Research & Data Activism Organization that transforms the stories of impacted communities into data that drives real change. Founded in 2015 by Jameila "Meme" Styles, Measure was created in response to the disconnect between the performance measures tracked by police and the day-to-day experience of her community. Measure grew out of a desire to bolster the Black community’s lived experiences with the power of data. W H Y W E E X I S T Lived Experience is Powerful Data that remains underutilized in the fight to eliminate social disparities in Black, Brown and Indigenous communities. Systemic racism and a lack of equitable data tools prevent these communities from effectively leveraging their own stories and data to drive change. This creates an environment where critical voices are oppressed, and solutions lack the foundation of lived experience. THE EVALUATION TEAM At Measure, we are proud to be an organization that works hard to showcase excellence in the advocacy, research and tech industry. We are proud to present our team of leaders, which includes a wide range of professionals with unique experiences and perspectives. MEME STYLES Founder & President PAULETTE BLANC Co-founder & Chief of Research LACOLE FOOTS Measure Evaluator DR. TIFFANY RICKS Measure Evaluator HANNA CHUN Measure Evaluator PURPOSE Evaluate the broader impact of Austin's Hotel Occupancy Tax-funded cultural programs through comprehensive assessment Combine community input with quantitative analysis to measure program effectiveness in addressing inequities and supporting underrepresented communities Generate actionable insights to optimize program investments and enhance cultural vitality across Austin METHODOLOGY How did we conduct our evaluation? QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS Conducted analysis of three HOT-funded programs in 2023, examining representation across race, gender, LGBTQIA status, and age categories Compared program applicants and awardees to the city’s population to spot any under- or overrepresentation. Created visual data comparisons tracking program outcomes by technical assistance utilization and council district distribution, highlighting key demographic patterns METHODOLOGY QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS Focus Groups: Conducted focus groups with individuals who have firsthand experiences of city-funded programs to gather detailed, qualitative feedback. Equity-Focused Research Tool: Used the Measure Equity Focus Group (EFG) Tool, a participatory research method co-designed …
• Project: St. John Site Redevelopment Project • Artist(s): TBD • Phase: Project RFQ Approval • Sponsoring Department: Financial Services Department • Project Budget: $250,000 • Council District: District 4 • Project Manager: Ryan Runcie AIPP PANEL MEETING AGENDA ITEM #5 DATE:1/13/2025 CALL TO ARTISTS Public Art Opportunity City of Austin (Texas): Art in Public Places St. John Site Redevelopment Deadline for Submissions – 5:00PM CST: March 14, 2025 REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS The City of Austin Art in Public Places program (AIPP) of the Cultural Arts Division, Economic Development Department (EDD) seeks to commission one artist or artist team to create a site-specific installation or artwork that highlights the history of the St. John neighborhood as prioritized by the Council-adopted St. John Community Vision (Resolution No. 20200729-0117). This opportunity is within the improved park space for the St. John Site located at 800 E. St. Johns Avenue, Austin, Texas 78752. BACKGROUND The St. John Site is roughly 19 acres of city-owned land located in Council District 4 at the northeast corner of the intersection of St. Johns Avenue and N IH 35. With a rich history as a Freedmen’s community dating back to the 1890s, the St. John Site has been a pivotal location for Central Texas’ African American community to date. PROJECT OVERVIEW As Austin works to acknowledge the grim events of the past, this in-depth effort to strengthen and provide a well- planned and community-focused addition to the St. John neighborhood is key. One artist or artist team will be selected to create an integrated installation or artwork to be placed within the redesigned and expanded St. John Park that welcomes, informs and excites the local community and visitors alike. The attached map (Exhibit A) highlights the proposed park improvements and potential locations for art opportunities within it. Final location of art installation or artwork to be determined with the developer, but the opportunity will be focused within the improved park space. The selected artist will design, fabricate, and implement one installation or artwork that pays homage to the past and links the site improvements and park space to the community today and tomorrow. BUDGET $250,000 One commission will be awarded for this project. The project budget is inclusive of design, fabrication, installation, engineering, permitting fees, travel, shipping expenses, insurance, and other project-related costs. ELIGIBILITY This opportunity is limited to teams of artists based in the State of …
•Project: Longhorn Dam Bridge •Artist: Reginald Adams •Phase: Final Design •Project Budget: $190,000 •Council District: District 3 •Project Manager: Lindsay Hutchens •Sponsoring Department: Transportation & Public Works Arts Commission Date: 01/27/2025 Longhorn Dam Bridge Project Background The Transportation and Public Works Department has partnered with the Parks and Recreation Department and Capital Delivery Services to develop a new pedestrian and bicycle bridge over Lady Bird Lake near the Longhorn Dam. Through community engagement, a "wishbone" shaped bridge was chosen to connect the Ann and Roy Butler Trail at Longhorn Shores, Canterbury and the Holly Peninsula in Town Lake Metropolitan Park. The bridge will provide an alternate option to the sidewalk on Pleasant Valley Road and fill a gap on the Butler Trail. This project began construction in early July 2024 and is anticipated to be complete in the summer of 2026. Community feedback requested AIPP artwork be installed in the new Pleasant Valley Underpass that connects the Butler Hike and Bike Trail, Country Club Creek Trail, and Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Metropolitan Park. Final Design Presentation by Reginald C. Adams Absolute Equality: Unity Bridge Longhorn Dam Bridge Mosaic Mural Community Engagement Report Introduction The community engagement process for the “Absolute Equality: Unity Bridge” mural project aims to actively involve local residents in the design and concept development. Through workshops and feedback sessions, we gather diverse perspectives to ensure the mural reflects the community’s collective identity and values. Community Engagement Activities 1. Community Engagement Session 1 (July 17, 2024): • Location: Rudy Mendez Recreation Center. • Activities: Introduced the project and gathered initial ideas through brainstorming sessions and surveys. • Outcomes: Collected 19 responses emphasizing themes of equality, diversity, and community unity. 2. Community Engagement Session 2 (October 8, 2024): • Location: Rudy Mendez Recreation Center. • Activities: Presented refined design concepts based on community feedback. • Outcomes: Valuable feedback on cultural representation and historical elements informed the final design iterations. 3. Fabrication Workshops (March 2025 - August 2025): • Activities: Engaged community members in hands-on mosaic fabrication sessions to promote skill development and ownership of the project. • Outcomes: Strengthened community ties and deepened investment in the mural. 4. Installation Activations (December 2025): • Activities: professional artist team commence installation of artwork. • Outcomes: Completion of the final work. Artist’s Statement The “Absolute Equality:Unity Bridge” mosaic mural is designed to celebrate the overarching ideals of equality, unity, and community …
