REGULAR MEETING of the ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL Monday, October 6th, 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 – Kristi-Anne Shaer, Vice Chair – Andrew Danziger, Taylor Davis, Bernardo Diaz, Heidi Schmalbach – Arts Commission Liaison. 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 minutes of the Art in Public Places Panel Regular Meeting on September 8, 2025, and Art in Public Places Panel Special Meeting on September 17, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS AND ACTION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Discussion of Arts Commission Liaison Report on Action Items from September 22, 2025, Arts Commissions Meeting by Arts Commission Liaison Discussion of Austin Convention Center Redevelopment Project concept design review update Discussion and ACTION of the recommended updates to Art in Public Places Guidelines and Policies per Resolution No. 20250306-029 ACTION: Approve Art in Public Places 2026 Schedule & Staff Retreat ACTION: Approve the Art Call for the NESC Garage Façade Art in Public Places Project ACTION: Approve the Art Call for the Shared Streets Art in Public Places Project STAFF BRIEFINGS 8. Art in Public Places Staff Briefing on Conservation, Current Projects, and Milestones 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 September 22, 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: Gina Houston - Chair, Acia Gray - Vice Chair, Keyheira Keys, Monica Maldonado, Felipe Garza, Heidi Schmalbach, Muna Hussaini, Celina Zisman, Faiza Kracheni, Sharron B Anderson, 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 August 18, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation on future funding by Dr. Lilia Rosas of Red Salmon Press 3. Presentation on a nomination to the Rally Austin Board of Directors by Theresa Alvarez, President and CEO of Rally Austin. 4. Presentation on the 2026 Bond Measure by Eric Bailey, Deputy Director, Capital Delivery Services. 5. Update on actions taken at the September 17th Art in Public Places Panel by Commissioner Schmalbach 6. Update on actions taken at the September 17th Downtown Commission meeting by Commissioner Houston 7. Discussion on Arts Commission Roles including Bylaws STAFF BRIEFINGS 8. Staff briefing regarding an update on the Hotel Occupancy Tax by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor. 9. Staff briefing regarding update on the Cultural Arts Funding Programs by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor. 10. Staff briefing on the Artist in Residence Program for Our Future 35 by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor. 11. Staff briefing regarding an update on Art in Public Places by Jaime Castillo, Art in Public Places Manager. 12. Staff briefing on the recommended changes to Ordinance Chapter 7-2 per Resolution No. 20250306-029 by Jaime Castillo, Art in Public Places Manager. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 13. Approve the Final Design for the Duncan Park Art …
Capital Delivery Services Capital Delivery Services Public Improvement Bond Program Public Improvement Bond Program Integrated Bond Program Development and Delivery Plan Integrated Bond Program Development and Delivery Plan Arts Commission Update Arts Commission Update Eric Bailey Eric Bailey Deputy Director Deputy Director Capital Delivery Services Capital Delivery Services September 22, 2025 September 22, 2025 “Effectively and Efficiently Deliver Quality Projects with the Concept of Speed” 1 AGENDA Improved Bond Development Process • CDS Overview • What is a General Obligation Bond Program? • • Staff Work Completed to Date • Guiding Principles, Technical Criteria, & Scoring Matrices • Progress to Date & Upcoming Milestones “Effectively and Efficiently Deliver Quality Projects with the Concept of Speed” 2 Created in 2023 with the goal of reducing project delivery time Who we are • Engineers • Architects • Project managers • Community Engagement Our partners • Consultants • Contracting teams • City asset owners • Community members • Mayor & Council Role in 2026 Bond Program One City – One Team – One Approach to effectively and efficiently deliver quality public projects. • Convene asset owner departments to develop needs assessment • Guide the process to ensure projects are vetted and scopes/schedules/budgets are accurate and realistic • Coordinate projects across departments to achieve mutual benefits What is a General Obligation Bond Program? Typical Bond Projects: • Flood and Erosion Control Improvements • New or Replacement City Facilities • Rehabilitation of Existing Facilities • Housing Infrastructure/Housing Projects • Street and Thoroughfare Improvements o Sidewalks o Traffic Signals • Park and Recreation Facilities • Public Safety Facilities (Fire/EMS/Police) • Land Purchase 4 What is a General Obligation Bond Program? Types of work NOT included: • Routine operations and maintenance activities o Potholes o Minor street repair o Landscaping maintenance o General building maintenance Improvements for short term leased space • • Code enforcement initiatives • Employee salaries (including police & fire) • AE/AW Capital Projects typically funded by using debt are funded via AE and AW revenue bonds, not General Obligation debt and thus are not for the 2026 GO Bond Program City of Austin | Capital Delivery Services Department | One City, One Team, One Approach to Capital Delivery 5 Improved Bond Delivery Process for 2026 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 Council calls for Bond Election (Aug) Bond Election (Nov) BEATF Meetings, Council, and Public Engagement HOW WE’VE DONE BONDS …
Hotel Occupancy Tax Update Arts Commission Meeting September 22, 2025 Hotel Occupancy Tax – August 2025 Approved Budget Amended Budget August w/ Encumb Year-to-date w/Encumb Year-End Estimate Total Revenue $169,901,585 $169,901,585 $41,199,921 $160,546,805 $165,125,757 Transfer to Cultural Arts Fund $16,217,879 $16,217,879 $3,934,592 $15,332,220 $15,762,004 • Total HOT Collections August 2025 = $41,137,300 • 94% of FY25 Approved Budget of $169,901,585 • Cultural Arts Fund August 2025 = $3,934,592 C I TY O F A U S T I N Hotel Occupancy Tax Collections – Significant Contributing Events • Independence Day – July 3-4 o Texas Music Scene Independence Eve Party featuring Reckless Kelly o Austin Symphony Orchestra July 4th Concert and Fireworks o Willie Nelson's 4th of July Picnic and Fireworks • Zilker Summer Musical – July 11-August 16 • Wellness Wonderland – July 12 • Bob Bullock Birthday Bash – July 13 • Hot Summer Nights – July 18-20 • Classic Game Fest – July 25-27 AUS Passenger Totals: 2,036,077 (July 2025) 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 HOT Collections (FY22 – FY25) C I TY O F A U S T I N Questions? Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment (ACME)
Office of Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment (ACME) Cultural Arts Funding Update September 22, 2025 Agenda 1.Contracts & Payments 2.Cultural Arts Funding Updates 3.Grant Funded Activities Contracts & Payments Contracts & Payments (As of 9/19/25) FY23 Elevate FY24 Elevate FY24 Nexus (Spring/ Summer) FY25-26 Thrive (Year 1) FY25-26 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%) 198 (99%) 194 (98%) 230 229 (99%) 229 (99%) 229 (99%) 216 (94%) 57 (25%) 51 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 49 (96%) n/a Total Dist. to date $6,221,000 (99%) $8,386,000 (91%) Total Allocation $6,250,000 $9,265,000 $245,000 (96%) $255,000 35 33 (94%) 34 (97%) 33 (94%) 32 (91%) 1 (3%) $3,268,500 (85%) See year 1 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A (N/A) $3,850,000 $3,850,000 *Each grant has a different reporting deadline. Final Payments are issued upon successful close out of Final Report. Cultural Arts Funding Updates Launch Update • October 21 – AACME grant funding opportunities launch • December 4 – Final deadline to submit Eligibility Form Grant Funded Activities FY 24-25 Cultural Funding Grantee Activities ICMCA presents renowned Sitarist - Pandit Kushal Das October 5 ICMCA (MSA) – Unity Church of the Hills Deaf Film Festival October 11 – 12 Deaf Film Festival (District 3) – Texas School for the Deaf Creative Fusion October 12 Angela Thornton (District 1) – Kenny Dorham’s Backyard C I TY O F A U S T I N FY 24-25 Cultural Funding Grantee Activities Yollotl: Encuentro del Corazón October 17 – 19 colectivo IN SITU (District 1) – Multiple venues Eastside Kings Festival October 18 – 19 Eastside Kings Foundation (District 8) – Multiple venues Groundwork Music Project's Second Sunday Concert Second Sunday monthly through December 2 Groundwork Music Project (District 2) – Cherrywood Coffee House C I TY O F A U S T I N Questions? Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment (ACME) Thank You For Your Partnership
• Project: Duncan Park • Artist(s): Andre Fuqua • Phase: Final Design • Sponsoring Department: Parks and Recreation • Project Budget: $48,000 • Council District: District 9 • Project Manager: Ryan Runcie AIPP PANEL MEETING AGENDA ITEM #5 DATE:8/4/2025 AIPP Corridor Construction - Duncan Park Mirror of the Earth, 2025 A low profile, metal sculpture that represents the power, presence, and importance of water in shaping Austin’s Downtown community Artist: André Fuqua | andrefuqua.com | @drefuqua Community Engagement In Person and Virtual Meetings Group Community Redesign Presentation Individual Charles Peveto, Community Member Date June 7 2025 Date May 19 2023 Ivey Kaiser, Executive Director, Shoal Creek Conservancy April 26 2023 Sierra DaSilva, Watershed Coordinator, Shoal Creek Conservancy Jon Rookstool, Retail Sales Manager, REI Ted Siff, President, OANA April 21 2023 Michael Portman, resident of Nokonah Building, Board Member, OANA Todd Moon, 9th Street Jumps, Long-time Volunteer & Advocacy Lead April 19 2023 Archival research at Austin History Center on Shoal Creek and flooding in Austin Artist: André Fuqua | andrefuqua.com | @drefuqua A park with many perspectives T E E R T S H T 9 Duncan Park Site Visit 7/26/2023 2008, 9th Street BMX, Photo Archive Duncan Park Site Visit 8/30/2023 2008, 9th Street BMX, Photo Archive Artist: André Fuqua | andrefuqua.com | @drefuqua Inspiration - Water and Reflectivity Puddling water on landscape at Duncan Park, 2025 Artist: André Fuqua | andrefuqua.com | @drefuqua Looking North towards 10th Street NOTE: The work will be flat and elevated 4 - 5 in above the ground Reflective Stainless Steel puddle pieces Note: This is a detail for (1) distinct piece of the sculpture. The full art work will be composed of 5 distinct shapes to create the full sculpture 316L Stainless Steel waterjet cut 1 8 thick 316L SS #8 mirror polished face epoxy layer 1 4 in thick sheet threaded leveling rod U-channels welded to base plate of each piece leveling rods embedded in concrete to attach plates nuts and washers used to attach plates to leveling rods Leveling Mechanism Note: All pieces of leveling mechanism fabricated from 304 stainless steel 1 8 inch thick #8 mirror finish 316 stainless steel face plate 1 4 in thick 304 stainless steel base plate 4 in 2 in depth of rod 6 in depth of concrete U-channel welds 2 in nut and leveling washer nut and flat washer threaded rod Concrete and …
• Project: Givens Pool • Artist(s): Melissa Borrell • Phase: Final Design • Sponsoring Department: Parks and Recreation • Project Budget: $170,000 • Council District: District 1 • Project Manager: Ryan Runcie AIPP PANEL MEETING AGENDA ITEM #8 DATE:9/8/2025 Making Waves at Givens Pool Melissa Borrell Final Design Making Waves at Givens Pool Making Waves artwork is a tribute to Dr. Givens, providing much needed shade at the pool that has been and continues to be a favorite community gathering spot for generations of residents of the neighborhood. The title alludes to both the changes that Dr. Givens fought for and made in the city as well as the literal waves that happen in the pool as people play, cool off, and splash. The colorful artwork has a kinetic visual element that changes depending on the viewing angle. The red and yellow colors represent the movement of the sun over the course of the day from sunrise to sunset. Viewed from one direction the background of yellow daytime sun will be more visible and red will be more apparent from the opposite side referencing the sunset hours. Making WavesMelissa Borrell -Givens Pool Final Design Making Waves at Givens Pool - Various Views Making WavesMelissa Borrell -Givens Pool Final Design 1 2 3 4 5 47'-3 5/8" 17'-4 3/8" 1'-4 7/8" 41'-5" 5" CONCRETE SLAB-ON-GRADE REINFORCED W/ #4 @ 12" O.C. EA. WAY, SEE STRUCTURAL NOTES FOR BUILDING PAD PREPARATION 16'-0" 44'-5 1/8" 40'-6 7/8" " 6 - ' 1 1 " 2 - ' 4 1 " 0 1 - ' 1 1 " 6 6 S307 SHADE CANOPY FOUNDATION BY SHADE CANOPY MFR. 7.00° 5 1 1 ' - 6 7 / 8 " 0'- 0 " = 1 R 6 S307 6 S307 16'-0" 13'-7 3/8" 26'-8 1/8" 19'-6" 19'-6" NEW POOL DECK ON GRADE 2 S304 6 S304 SHADE CANOPY FOUNDATION BY SHADE CANOPY MFR. R = 1 0 '- 0 " 6 S307 / " 8 1 7 - ' 8 19'-6" 153'-5 1/2" " 2 - ' 3 . Q S 1 S305 A B 6 S307 R= 10'-0" 11'-5 3/4" SHADE CANOPY FOUNDATION BY SHADE CANOPY MFR. 4 5 . 0 0 ° 6 S307 19'-6" 18'-11 1/8" 27'-5 5/8" / " 4 1 0 - ' 9 1 " 6 13'-5 5/8" 12'-11 5/8" " 0 - ' 5 1 EXISTING 2'-0"W X …
• Project: Montopolis Pool • Artist(s): Britt Johnson • Phase: Final Design • Sponsoring Department: PARD • Project Budget: $100,000 • Council District: 3 • Project Manager: Bryana Iglesias MAP AIPP PROJECT BRITTANY JOHNSON MURALIST • PAINTER • DESIGNER JANUARY 2025 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT REPORT OVERVIEW Community-Centered Focus: Reflecting Montopolis’ values and aspirations. Engagement Activities: Surveys, workshops, and events for input. Key Themes: Diversity, joy, unity, and connection to nature. Project Goal: Celebrate Montopolis through community-inspired art. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT REPORT ACTIVITIES Held workshops & Events: Spray Paint Workshop at Something Cool Studios. Community tabling event at Montopolis Rec Center. Targeted workforce development skills in the arts while gaining feedback. Surveys: I helped people answer questionnaires in English and Spanish. 36 responses were collected. Canvassing: Group discussions with community members and staff. Attended Varisty painting class. Community Input: Desire for vibrant colors, inclusivity, family life depictions, nature, and unity. CONCEPT & NARRATIVE PRELIMINARY MURAL CONCEPT The proposed mural, titled "Flowing Together: Celebration of Montopolis Pool & Park," is inspired by Community Engagement results. will depict families enjoying the pool, surrounded by local flora and fauna. Designed with bright, realistic colors transitioning through a gradient, the mural will evoke love, belonging, and nostalgia. Combining abstract and realistic elements, the artwork aims to reflect the community’s identity, creating a meaningful and uplifting centerpiece for Montopolis. Concept A1 • Woman and child gathering wildflowers, wearing backpacks from activities between families afterschool • Mexican textile patterns in background • Eastern Blue bird native to austin migrating to Mexico symbol of hope and happiness • Pink evening primrose Concept C1 • Woman swimming underwater • Freshwater fish and turtle native to austin lakes • Mexican textile patterns • Surreal abstract elements Concept A3 • Boy and adult holding hands at park • Purple coneflowers • Monarch and bats • Kids playing with Austin skyline • African textile patterns Concept C3 • Senior woman swimming • Ruby throated humming bird, native to austin and symbol of goodluck • Agave plant and trumpet flowers • African textile patterns SITE LOCATION C3 A3 C1 A1 C1 A1 C3 A3 Edge to Metal Box 26” Edge to Panel 19.75’ 8” 10” 26” Edge to Panel 8” 10” WALL ART PANEL Metal Box WALL ART PANEL A1 C1 26” Edge to Panel 26” Edge to Panel 26” Edge to Panel 8” 10” 8” 10” WALL ART PANEL WALL ART PANEL FORM & …
Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment (AACME) Artist In Residence (AIR) Program Update September 22, 2025 Agenda 1.Program Overview 2.Timeline 3.Selected Artists Program Overview Our Future 35 Artist Residence Our Future 35 Artist in Residence, a program developed and launched in Partnership with Austin Transportation and Public Works Residency Goals: To use art as a method to foster connection among • community • • To integrate the rich cultural history of neighborhoods su rrounding IH-35 into the OF35 planning process To benefit Austin's local art community Ideal Applicants: • From or with experience of East Austin • Has worked with and among community • Is aware of IH-35's history and cultural context • Can demonstrate social practice in their art • Can produce art that shares stories, preferable in multiple mediums Artist in Residence Timeline Opened call July 2024 Top Artist Interviews September 2024 Contract process paused for Council Action on Our Future 35 Caps November 2025- May 2025 New funds allocated, Artists under contract August 2025 August 2024 October 2024 May 2025 August 2026 Application Deadline Artist Selected NEA Rescinded Award Final Reports Due Selected Artists Cat Carter Cat Carter is a multidisciplinary creative director, artist, and founder of SuperWoman Records, a nonprofit record label empowering women through music, storytelling, and community-driven initiatives. Her work bridges art, culture, and equity—using music, events, and publishing to create platforms that amplify marginalized voices and inspire new possibilities. • Founder & CEO of SuperWoman Records, the first Black woman–led nonprofit record label and festival in Austin. • Recipient of the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity’s ERA program, attending the world’s leading creative festival to represent women-led innovation in music and culture. • Creative producer and visionary behind SheXSW and the SuperWoman Records Festival, merging music, fashion, and community to create groundbreaking cultural experiences. Launched SuperWoman Records Publishing and published its first book, The House the 90s Built, expanding into literature and cultural storytelling. • Proposed Event: Candy Coated 35 The 35 Project is a cultural storytelling campaign rooted in rhythm, memory and reclaiming space. It will include music, oral histories, live performance and visual art TENTATIVE Activation Timeline (Nov 2025 – Mar 2026) November Slowed, Throwed & Candy Coated — Live KAZI DJ Set December The Chrome Mirror — Kya Monee at Riches Art Gallery January The Divide Cypher — Rooftop or Lot Overlooking I-35 February Black Girl Future — Film Night …
SPECIAL MEETING of the ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL Wednesday, September 17th, 2025, at 1:00 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 – Kristi-Anne Shaer, Vice Chair – Andrew Danziger, Taylor Davis, Bernardo Diaz, Heidi Schmalbach – Arts Commission Liaison. 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 minutes of the Art in Public Places Panel Regular Meeting on September 8, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Discussion and Action of the recommended changes to Ordinance Chapter 7-2 per Resolution No. 20250306-029. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Art in Public Places Staff Briefing on Conservation, Current Projects, and Milestones. 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 ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL Monday, September 8th, 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 – Kristi-Anne Shaer, Vice Chair – Andrew Danziger, Taylor Davis, Bernardo Diaz, Heidi Schmalbach – Arts Commission Liaison. 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 minutes of the Art in Public Places Panel Regular Meeting on August 4, 2025 DISCUSSION ITEMS AND ACTION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Discussion of Arts Commission Liaison Report on Action Items from August 18, 2025, Arts Commissions Meeting by Arts Commission Liaison Discussion of the Mid-Design presentation for the ESB-MACC Phase II Art in Public Places Project – Katherine Talley and Ruben Esquivel of EastEndEclectic Discussion of the Mid-Design presentation for the AFD Goodnight Ranch AIPP Project – ReSITE Studio Discussion of the Mid-Design presentation for the Davenport Ranch AFD52/EMS41 Art in Public Places Project – Adrian Aguilera and Betelhem Makonnen (AA BM LLC) Discussion of the recommended update to Ordinance Chapter 7-2 per Resolution No. 20250306-029 ACTION: Approve the Final Design for the Duncan Park Art in Public Places Project – Andre Fuqua 8. 9. ACTION: Approve the Final Design for the Givens Pool Art in Public Places Project – Melissa Borrell ACTION: Approve the Final Design for the Montopolis Pool Art in Public Places Project – Britt Johnson STAFF BRIEFINGS 10. Art in Public Places Staff Briefing on Conservation, Current Projects, and Milestones 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 …
REGULAR MEETING of the ARTS COMMISSION August 18, 2025, at 6:00 PM Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001. 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 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: Gina Houston - Chair, Acia Gray - Vice Chair, Keyheira Keys, Felipe Garza, Heidi Schmalbach, Muna Hussaini, Celina Zisman, Faiza Kracheni, Sharron B Anderson, 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 July 21, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation of how fiscal sponsors optimize the experience of all parties involved in City granting where they live — plus fiscal sponsorship best practices by Carman Gaines of Local Color, San José, CA. 3. Presentation of how fiscal sponsors optimize the experience of all parties involved in City granting where they live — plus fiscal sponsorship best practices by Thaddeus Squire of Social Impact Commons, Philadelphia, PA. 4. Discussion of Annual Review and Report STAFF BRIEFINGS 5. Staff briefing regarding an update on the Hotel Occupancy Tax by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor. 6. Staff briefing regarding update on the Cultural Arts Funding Programs by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor. 7. Staff briefing regarding an update on Art in Public Places by Jaime Castillo, Art in Public Places Manager. 8. Staff briefing regarding ACME Funding Guidelines final draft, by Morgan Messick, Assistant Director, ACME DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 9. Discussion and possible action on recommendation of the updated ACME funding guidelines. 10. Appoint new representative to the Downtown Commission. 11. Appoint new liaison to the Arts in Public Places Panel. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 12. Update from joint Arts/Music Commission Working Group on Urban Core Issues with Commissioners Schmalbach, and Gray(chair). …
Fiscal Sponsorship Short Introduction & FAQs Austin Arts Commission | August 18, 2025 This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International Public License This means you can adapt this work and share its contents freely for non-commercial purposes, provided you credit Social Impact Commons. What’s fiscal sponsorship? What’s fiscal sponsorship? Fiscal sponsorship is an arrangement where an exempt organization, typically a 501(c)(3) public charity, furthers its mission by receiving and expending funds to support a mission-aligned “Project” while retaining discretion and control over the funds. Depending on the model, fiscal sponsors may also share their legal home, back office, and other resources with their Projects. Unlike a traditional program carried out by a nonprofit, fiscal sponsorship arrangements are typically memorialized in an agreement that defines roles and responsibilities. The leadership of the Project usually reserves the right to exit the relationship. Model “C” Pre-approved Grant Attributes ● ● Arm’s-length, re-granting relationship Complete corporate independence & separate tax treatment ● Only addresses contributed revenue receiving ● Independent earned revenue/expense streams ● Governance remain completely independent ● Independent entities raise tax considerations Uses ● Moving charitable funds to non-exempt receivers ● ● Access to charitable funds for nonprofits awaiting a ruling Access to funding for simple/small/temporary projects Model “A” – Comprehensive Attributes ● Operationally integrated program relationship ● ● ● ● ● ● Uses ● ● ● ● ● Solution for comprehensive shared services Legally a co-management relationship Project maintains an advisory body Sponsor responsible for all legal and compliance All revenue and expenses managed by sponsor Sponsor is employer of record for project staff Sharing back-office services and economies of scale Allowing established nonprofits to share infrastructure Incubating new nonprofits Access to funds for nonprofits awaiting a ruling Access to funding for simple/small/temporary projects Comparison of common models Costs (% of Revenue) Back Office Support Stand-alone Formation 17% - 27% Model “A” Comprehensive Model “C” Pre-approved Grant 10% - 15% 4% - 8% Project provides all finance, HR, legal, compliance, insurance, both staff and other direct costs. Sponsor provides all finance, HR, legal, compliance, insurance, both staff and other direct costs. Sponsor provides compliance for contributions only. Sponsee entity does the rest of the back office work. Identity & Relationships Project retains relationships with donors, patrons, funders, partners, etc. Project leads retain relationships with donors, patrons, funders, partners, etc.Project leads & Sponsor work together to report to funders …
Hotel Occupancy Tax Update Arts Commission Meeting August 18, 2025 Hotel Occupancy Tax – July 2025 Approved Budget Amended Budget June w/ Encumb Year-to-date w/Encumb Year-End Estimate Total Revenue $169,901,585 $169,901,585 Transfer to Cultural Arts Fund $16,217,879 $16,217,879 $ $ $ $ $ $ • Total HOT Collections July 2025 = $ • 70% of FY25 Approved Budget of $169,901,585 • Cultural Arts Fund July 2025 = $ C I T Y O F A U S T I N Hotel Occupancy Tax Collections – Significant Contributing Events • IHeart Country Festival – May 3 • Commencement Ceremonies – May 10 • University of Texas • Huston Tillotson • St. Edwards • Hot Luck Festival – May 22-25 • NCAA Softball First Round – May 16-18 • NCAA Softball Super Regionals - May 22-25 • IllFest – May 30-31 AUS Passenger Totals: 1,935,429 (May 2025) C I T Y O F A U S T I N HOT Cultural Arts Fund - FY25 C I T Y O F A U S T I N Approved Budget for FY25: $16,217,879 FY25 HOT Cultural Arts Fund to date: $11,321,678 HOT Collections (FY22 – FY25) 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
Office of Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment (ACME) Cultural Arts Funding Update August 18, 2025 Agenda 1.Contracts & Payments 2.Grant Funded Activities Contracts & Payments Contracts & Payments (As of 8/15/25) FY23 Elevate FY24 Elevate FY24 Nexus (Spring/ Summer) FY25-26 Thrive (Year 1) FY25-26 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%) 198 (99%) 193 (97%) 230 227 (99%) 229 (99%) 227 (99%) 214 (93%) 43 (19%) 51 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 49 (96%) n/a Total Dist. to date $6,219,250 (99%) $8,249,000 (90%) Total Allocation $6,250,000 $9,205,000 $245,000 (96%) $255,000 35 33 (94%) 34 (97%) 33 (94%) 31 (89%) 1 (3%) $3,128,500 (81%) See year 1 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A (N/A) $3,850,000 $3,850,000 *Each grant has a different reporting deadline. Final Payments are issued upon successful close out of Final Report. Grant Funded Activities FY 24-25 Cultural Funding Grantee Activities Home Is Where The Art Is. July 21 – September 30 Imagine Art (District 3) – Imagine Art Kool-Aid's Backyard Comedy Jam Fridays, August 1 – 22 East Austin Creative Coalition (District 1) – Kenny Dorham’s Backyard Amy and the Orphans August 14 – 17, 21 – 24, and 28 – 30 Ground Floor Theatre (District 3) – Ground Floor Theatre C I TY O F A U S T I N FY 24-25 Cultural Funding Grantee Activities Community Mosaic Workshop Third Thursdays, August – November The Mosaic Workshop (District 1) – The Mosaic Workshop Creative Devotion August 21 Red Light Lit (District 2) – PROPAGANDA HQ I Scream Social August 22 Host Publications (District 10) – Alienated Majesty Books C I TY O F A U S T I N FY 24-25 Cultural Funding Grantee Activities Women in Jazz Festival August 30 Women in Jazz (MSA) – Austin PBS Sonic Transmissions Festival 2025 September 11 – 14 Sonic Transmissions (District 5) – Scottish Rite Theater Crown Act Festival September 14 FroFessionals (MSA) – Asian American Resource Center C I TY O F A U S T I N Questions Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment (ACME) Thank You For Your Partnership
Art in Public Places Resolution Response August 18, 2025 Resolution No. 20250306-029 – Status Update 8/18 Phase 1 (March – May) Resolution + Program Assessment • • • Historical Data Benchmarking Reviewed current polices, contracts, programs Redlined current policies Review program needs • Phase 2 (June – August) Council Status Update Resolution • Establish Cross-Dept WG + action plan for implementation Review draft Ordinance, Guidelines, policies recommendations • Needs assessment plan • UT Landmarks benchmarking • ACME Leadership Updates • Legal coordination Phase 3 (Sept-Dec) Revised Polices Adopted • Ordinance update (Council) • Guidelines and policy updates • • (Panel + Commission) Develop new programs Launch Open Calls w/ changes from Phase 1 + 2 Phase 4 (2026) Announce New Programs Implement new programming • Targeted focus groups AIPP Panel Guidelines WG Targeted focus groups Stakeholder internal + external Community outreach Community outreach • • • • T N E M S S E S S A T N E M E G A G N E S N O I T A D N E M M O C E R + S E M E H T Themes Local artist participation Lack of understand of % for Art program Recommendations • Update policies for clarity + inclusion • Update communications + marketing for transparency + information Explore resources for artists • Themes Lack of understand of % for Art program Artist support Recommendations Transparency of process Process flow chart Resources for artists • • • • •
Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment 2025 - 2026 Grant Funding Guidelines & Process Presented by Morgan Messick Assistant Director, Office of Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment (ACME) Art Commission Meeting | August 18, 2025 Some Major Improvements, Based on Feedback Guidelines Applicants competing against similar applicants (applicant type AND budget size) Ensuring avenues for all creative types: Two paths for individual artists; two paths for arts groups; two paths for state-level non-profits; two paths for 501 (c) 3 Fiscal Sponsorship available, but not required Single guideline document, with standardized definitions, formatting, and department processes/policies Cutting the originally proposed operation percentage caps from funding programs More funding levels are available for individual artists User Experience Improved Panel process Universal Appeals process for ACME programs Established policies on double dipping/conflict of interest, in response to Audit concerns Stacked application launch, with a single intake form Panels & Scoring Elevate/Thrive Panelist recruitment underway/training soon Assignments will be discipline specific (exhibition, performance, Arts Education/Arts Service/Arts and Music Therapy) Independent review by panelists with deadline to submit initial scores Panel day will be streamed, and private link available on YouTube after For score calculation > Olympic scoring is done by ACME staff/The Long Center Nexus Reviewer recruitment underway; training is soon; application assignments Independent review by Reviewer with deadline to submit scores/comments Score calculation Award Decisions Elevate/Thrive Award determination based on score Tentative awardee list provided to ACME leadership; internal review Award announcements made *Appeals process available Nexus award determination based on score Tentative awardee list provided to ACME leadership; internal review Tentative award announcements made *Appeals process available Measuring Program Impacts Category What the City Measures Metrics Reach & Engagement Community reach and public participation Attendance counts, demographic data Promotion Visibility and marketing efforts Event flyers, social media screenshots, VisitAustin.org listings, marketing plan analytics Impact Access Expression Resiliency Economic and cultural benefits for the creative workforce Number of jobs supported, amount of funding distributed Accessibility and inclusion for audiences and participants Diverse locations, ADA features, free/low-cost tickets/creative space, multilingual options Support for authentic artistic and cultural expression Artist reflections, new work created, creative risks taken Organizational growth, adaptability, or long- term community benefit beyond City funding New partnerships, diversified revenue, business training and professional development Cultural Funding Applicant Eligibility Thrive Elevate Nexus 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Arts Organization by time of Application submission (Federal designation only) At least five years operating in the City of Austin …
Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment (AACME) _________________________ AACME Funding Guidelines 1 Updated 8/15/2025 Table of Contents Overview .......................................................................................................................................... 3 AACME Funding Goals ....................................................................................................................... 3 Funding Impacts................................................................................................................................ 4 Applicant Eligibility At-A-Glance .......................................................................................................... 5 State of Texas Funding Requirements .................................................................................................. 5 Expenses .......................................................................................................................................... 6 Applicant & Awardee Requirements .................................................................................................... 6 Grant Application .............................................................................................................................. 7 Evaluation & Review ........................................................................................................................... 8 Awardee Grant Agreements & Payments .............................................................................................. 9 Accessibility Statement ..................................................................................................................... 10 Questions About Funding Guidelines? ................................................................................................ 11 AACME FUNDING DETAILS ................................................................................................................ 12 Arts & Culture Funding ................................................................................................................... 12 Music & Venue Funding .................................................................................................................. 19 Heritage Events & Capital Improvement Projects .............................................................................. 25 APPENDICES ................................................................................................................................... 32 Appendix A: Definitions .................................................................................................................. 32 Appendix B: Panelists .................................................................................................................... 37 Appendix C: Appeals Process ......................................................................................................... 39 Appendix D: Insurance Requirements ............................................................................................. 41 Appendix E: Reporting Requirements .............................................................................................. 41 Appendix F: Conflict of Interest Policy ............................................................................................. 43 2 Updated 8/15/2025 AACME OVERVIEW ______________________________________ Overview In February 2025, the City of Austin established Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment (AACME) to better support the City’s ongoing work with Austin’s creative community, making the city a stronger place for arts, culture, and music. AACME goals include: • Meaningful direct support for artists and cultural groups • Local economy growth and development to attract visitors and build stronger communities • Enduring partnerships between artists, cultural groups, and businesses • Open and accessible spaces that connect residents and tourists through arts and culture to strengthen community identity and promote collective storytelling • Further build Austin’s identity as a global city for creativity AACME is committed to Building a Collaborative, Vibrant City. AACME Funding Goals Austin is home to many creatives that draw tourists and locals alike to the community. A central initiative of AACME is to invest in the creative economy and expand access and participation in arts, music, and heritage by providing grant funding for activities that enrich the public, broaden tourism, and contribute to a vibrant community. AACME supports our community by prioritizing the preservation of creative space, the elevation of arts and arts nonprofits, and through events, projects, and music that contribute to the cultural fabric of Austin. Our programs support all Austinites with a focus on historically underrepresented communities in funding. Our goals and measures of success align with city wide plans, such as Imagine Austin and the City-Wide Strategic Plan. 3 Updated 8/15/2025 Funding Impacts Performance Measures to Support Funding Goals To measure the impact of AACME …
