May 25, 2022 Terri Myers, Chair City of Austin Historic Landmark Commission Dear Ms. Myers, Re: 310-312 Colorado St, 201-209 W 4th St, and 211 W 4th St Preservation Austin exists to empower Austinites to shape a more inclusive, resilient, and meaningful community culture through preservation. We write to you today to address the alarming losses that our LGBTQIA community may face with the proposed demolitions of 310-312 Colorado St (DA-2022-040962;GF-2022-047912), 201-209 W 4th St (DA-2022-040962;GF-2022-047912), and 211 W 4th St (DA-2022-040962;GF-2022-047912). We ask the Historic Landmark Commission to reject the proposed demolitions and support historic zoning for these significant properties in the areas of Community Value and Architecture. These cases aligns with Preservation Austin’s Underrepresented Heritage Advocacy Priority for their associations with Austin’s LGQBTIA community. Since adopting this priority, Preservation Austin’s Advocacy Committee and our Fowler Family Underrepresented Heritage Interns have done extensive research into Austin’s LGBTQIA heritage and the sites associated with it, many of which are no longer extant. To date, no historic landmarks, markers, or designations honor Austin’s LGBTQIA heritage. This problem is not unique to Austin––scholars Camden Miller and Alex Bitterman aptly summarized this phenomenon in their essay “Commemorating Historically Significant Gay Places Across the United States”: “Gay spaces across the United States are steeped in important and ephemeral history. However, the stories of these spaces—and the people that lived the struggle to gain LGBTQ+ rights—are largely unrecorded, undocumented, and are not centrally collected or archived beyond Wikipedia entries and oral histories. Many gay places and gay neighborhoods have no formal means of recognition or historic protection such as those that are available to other classifications of landmarks from state or federal agencies. The pioneering generation that gave rise to the LGBTQ+ rights movement is aging and the time to capture the unprecedented—and largely undocumented—history of their efforts and struggle is endangered.” Preservation Austin remains committed to researching and protecting the spaces vital to our city’s LGBTQIA heritage. We believe it is important to do so because this is a story that is not often told, but one that is essential to the complete story of Austin. The Warehouse District has been home to a vibrant queer community for many decades, and within its walls and on its streets the very history of Austin’s LGBTQIA community has been written. We heard from the Hanover company as they attempted to deny and downplay the historic associations …
ARTS COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING May 31, 2022 AT 6:00 PM Permitting and Development Center Event Center Room 1405 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive, Austin, Texas 78752 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 by 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. To register, contact Jesús Pantel at jesus.pantel@austintexas.gov or at 512- 974-9315. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Michelle Polgar – Chair, Celina Zisman – Vice Chair, Brett Barnes, Jaime Castillo, Lulu Flores, Felipe Garza, Acia Gray, kYmberly Keeton, Amy Mok, Heidi Schmalbach, Rick Van Dyke CALL TO ORDER – 6:09 PM MINUTES PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers who register to speak no later than Noon the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. Approve the minutes for the Arts Commission meeting on April 18, 2022. Seconded: Gray Motioned: Mok Approved 7-0, Commissioners Barnes, Castillo, Keeton, and Schmalbach absent. 2. CHAIR’S REPORT a. Chair’s Report: Thank you – Commissioner Polgar b. Art in Public Places Liaison Report – Commissioner Barnes c. Austin Economic Development Corporation/Cultural Trust Advisory Committee Report – Carl Settles d. Downtown Commission Report – Commissioner Mok 3. STAFF BRIEFINGS Places Manager Program Manager a. Art in Public Places Year in Review – Marjorie Flanagan, Acting Art in Public b. Hotel Occupancy Tax Update – Laura Odegaard, Cultural Investment c. Cultural Funding Review Process Update – Meghan Wells, Cultural Arts Division Manager; Laura Odegaard, Cultural Investment Program Manager Move to Item 5a Motioned: Zisman Seconded: Gray Approved 7-0, Commissioners Barnes, Castillo, Keeton, and Schmalbach absent. 4. NEW BUSINESS a. Art in Public Places Discussion and Action Items i. Approve the Final Design by Agustina Rodriguez for the TEMPO 2021 Art in Public Places Project ii. Approve the Prospectus for the Oertli Neighborhood Park Art in Public iii. Approve the Prospectus for the Emma Long Metropolitan Park Art in Public iv. Approve the Prospectus for the Redbud Trail Bridge and Isle Art in Public Places Places Project Places Project Project v. Approve the Final Design by …
2. 3. 4. 5. 6. ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL AGENDA Regular Meeting - Monday, May 2, 2022; 6:00 PM The Art in Public Places Panel will participate by videoconference. The public may attend the meeting online with pre-registration. Please contact alex.irrera@austintexas.gov by May 1st at 12 PM to pre-register. ART IN PUBLIC PLACES (AIPP) PANEL MEMBERS: Tammie Rubin – Chair, Jacob Villanueva –Vice Chair, Brett Barnes – Arts Commission Liaison, Sarah Carr, Stephanie Lemmo, J Muzacz, Joel Nolan 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 posted on the agenda. 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. Approve minutes from the AIPP Panel meeting held on 4/4/2022 CHAIR’S REPORT a. Elect Officers to Art in Public Places Panel ARTS COMMISSION LIAISON REPORT NEW BUSINESS a. Discussion and Action Items i) ii) Approve the Final Design for the TEMPO 2021 AIPP Project --Agustina Rodriguez, Artist Approve the Prospectus for the Oertli Neighborhood Park AIPP Project --Alex Irrera and Ryan Runcie, AIPP staff iii) Approve the Prospectus for the Emma Long Metropolitan Park AIPP Project --Curt Gettman, AIPP staff Approve the Prospectus for the Redbud Trail Bridge and Isle AIPP Project iv) --Marjorie Flanagan, AIPP staff OLD BUSINESS STAFF BRIEFINGS a. Update on AIPP Program Manager position b. Upcoming AIPP events c. Introduce new AIPP Project Manager Ryan Runcie ADJOURNMENT GENERAL ANNOUNCEMENTS / FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 7. 8. 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 - including translation and interpretation services. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days before the meeting date. For assistance, please contact the Economic Development Department at 512-974-7819 or Relay Texas 7-1-1.
ARTS COMMISSION MEETING April 18, 2022 AT 6:00 PM Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001 301 W 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 by 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. To register, contact Jesús Pantel at jesus.pantel@austintexas.gov or at 512-974-9315. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Michelle Polgar – Chair, Celina Zisman – Vice Chair, Brett Barnes, Jaime Castillo, Lulu Flores, Felipe Garza, Acia Gray, kYmberly Keeton, Amy Mok, Heidi Schmalbach, Rick Van Dyke CALL TO ORDER AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers who register to speak no later than Noon the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. Approve the minutes for the Arts Commission meetings on: i. January 31, 2022 ii. February 24, 2022 iii. March 27, 2022 2. CHAIR’S REPORT a. Chair’s Report: Check in - Commissioner Polgar b. Art in Public Places Liaison Report - Commissioner Barnes c. Austin Economic Development Corporation/Cultural Trust Advisory Committee Report – Carl Settles d. Downtown Commission Report – Commissioner Mok 3. SPECIAL PRESENTATION a. Convention Center expansion – Katy Zamesnik, Austin Convention Center Department Chief Administrative Officer b. Consortium Update – Cory Baker, President and Chief Executive Officer, The Long Center for the Performing Arts and Anne Gatling Haynes, Chief Transactions Officer, Austin Economic Development Corporation 4. STAFF BRIEFINGS a. Community Navigators Update – Donald Jackson, Economic Development Department Business Process Consultant b. Hotel Occupancy Tax Update – Sylnovia Holt-Rabb, Economic Development c. Cultural Funding Review Process Update – Meghan Wells, Cultural Arts Division Department Director Manager 5. OLD BUSINESS a. Discussion and Possible Action on Cultural Funding Review Process, including i. Staff Presentation of Revised Draft Cultural Funding Program Guidelines ii. Commission Questions and Recommendations iii. Community Engagement and Feedback Process and Schedule b. Discussion and Possible Action on Working Groups and Working Group Updates i. Equity Working Group with Community Arts leaders of the BIPOC/LGBTQIA/Disabilities Community/Women with Commissioners Keeton (chair) and commissioners Castillo, Gray, Polgar, Zisman and …
Joint Prospectus Brownie Neighborhood Park, Highland Neighborhood Park and Reznicek Fields, & Duncan Neighborhood Park Art in Public Places Projects (3) ARTS COMMISSION APRIL 18, 2022 Brownie Neighborhood Park Project Background • Current playscape + 5 acres undeveloped land • Next phase: Picnic pavilion, irrigation system expansion, loop walking trail, solar security lighting, benches, picnic tables, new playground, new drinking fountain, and vehicular turnaround & ADA parking spaces Single family and multi-family dwellings • • Many schools nearby • Community Demographics: • Race/Ethnicity: Hispanic or Latino: 57.3%; White: 24.9%; Black: 9.7%; American Indian & Alaska Native: 0.2%; Asian: 5.3%; Native Hawaiian & Pacific Islander: 0.1%; Other Race: 0.2%; Two or More Races: 2.4% Languages Spoken: Speak only English: 43%; Speak Spanish or Spanish Creole; 48%; Speak Other Indo- European Language: 3%; Speak Asian or Pacific Island Language: 4% • District 4 Embodies community and inclusion; Brownie AIPP Project Goals Community feedback for the goals was gathered: • • • PARD Virtual Community Meetings: April & July 2021 PARD Community Survey w/ Pop- Ups: April & May 2021 Community Flyers: October 2021 Artist Budget: $48,000 Contributes to the park as a calm and peaceful oasis; Vibrantly encourages imagination and play; Is easily maintained and vandal-resistant in an exterior environment; and Contributes to the depth/breadth of the City of Austin’s public art collection Brownie Park Possible Artwork Locations Suggestions circled in pink. Final art location is to be determined by artist in collaboration with community and City stakeholders. Highland Neighborhood Park and Reznicek Fields Project Background 7.5 acres of city owned land • • Next phase includes: Two 125’ ball fields with lighting, a new site irrigation system, a loop walking trail, benches, a new drinking fountain, parking lot improvements, utilities for a future restroom/community building, and 25 additional trees Single family and multi-family dwellings Youth sports activities by the University Hills Optimist Club (UHO) since 1970 • • • Community Demographics: • Race/Ethnicity: Hispanic or Latino: 52%; White: 36%; • Black: 6%; American Indian & Alaska Native: 0%; Asian: 3%; Native Hawaiian & Pacific Islander: 0%; Other Race: 0%; Two or More Races: 3% Languages Spoken: Speak only English: 53%; Speak Spanish or Spanish Creole: 42%; Speak Other Indo- European Language: 2%; Speak Asian or Pacific Island Language: 2% District 4 Highland AIPP Project Goals Community feedback for the goals was gathered: • • • PARD Virtual Community Meeting: June 2021 …
Hotel Occupancy Tax Update Laura Odegaard, Program Manager III Cultural Arts Division Economic Development Department April 18, 2022 C I T Y O F A U S T I N E C O N O M I C D E V E L O P M E N T 1 Hotel Occupancy Tax – February 2022 Hotel Occupancy Tax Fund Month Ended February 28, 2022 Tfr to Cultural Arts Fund Approved Budget 6,660,189 Amended Budget 6,660,189 February w/Encumb 812,359 Year-to-date w/Encumb 5,386,691 Year-End Estimate 6,660,189 Year-End Year-End Variance % Variance Fav(Unfav) Fav(Unfav) 0.0% 0 YTD Total HOT is $56.4M • 81% of FY22 Budget of $69.8M • FY22 Q2 collections for months Jan and Feb totaled $31.5M C I T Y O F A U S T I N E C O N O M I C D E V E L O P M E N T 2 Hotel Occupancy Tax – March 2022 Hotel Occupancy Tax Fund Month Ended March 31, 2022 Tfr to Cultural Arts Fund Approved Budget 6,660,189 Amended Budget 6,660,189 March w/Encumb 54,326 Year-to-date w/Encumb 5,441,016 Year-End Estimate 6,660,189 Year-End Year-End Variance % Variance Fav(Unfav) Fav(Unfav) 0.0% 0 YTD Total HOT is $56,972,229 • 82% of FY22 Budget of $69.8M • FY22 collections for March was $567,293 C I T Y O F A U S T I N E C O N O M I C D E V E L O P M E N T 3 HOT Cultural Arts Fund – FY22 Year End Estimate: $6,660,189 82% so far = $5.5M Actuals C I T Y O F A U S T I N E C O N O M I C D E V E L O P M E N T 4 C I T Y O F A U S T I N E C O N O M I C D E V E L O P M E N T 5
Community Navigator Program Update April 18, 2022 Community Navigator Program Overview Program Intent: The Economic Development Department’s Community Navigator Program supports local businesses, non-profit organizations, and creative professionals impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Clients can register for no-cost assistance from Community Navigators, including one-on-one coaching, virtual classes, and help applying for government and philanthropic support. This program was approved by Austin City Council, and it is funded through Austin’s allocation of the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Client Eligibility: To be eligible, local entities must be located(cid:3031)in the(cid:3031)Austin-Round Rock Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). The Austin-Round Rock MSA includes Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, and Williamson counties. Community Navigator Program Overview How it Works! EDD and partners will inform community about the program Interested clients will register for services using Portal EDD will refer clients to partners based on clients’ interests, or clients can select their preferred partner Partners will render services and leave “service notes” in Portal Partners will invoice EDD for services; EDD will pay invoices based on service notes Program began on March 23rd Community Navigator Program Overview Art Spark Texas will provide registration assistance for any help in setting up an account. Community Navigators Austin Revitalization Authority Business & Community Lenders (BCL) of Texas Economic Growth Business Incubator (EGBI) Health Alliance for Austin Musicians Mission Capital On the Money Finance LLC The Volt Studios Visual Matters Consulting Marketing and Outreach Timeline Launch Day Efforts Program officially launched on March 23rd at 10 a.m. Press Release Newsletter Social Media Promotional Videos Social Media Organic and Paid Posts Stakeholder Outreach via Email Website FAQs Program Information Portal Application Access (How-To Video) 6 Ongoing Efforts Newsletter Social Media Promotional Videos Social Media Organic and Paid Posts Paid Media Buys 7 Questions Community Navigator Program We look forward to working with you!
Cultural Arts Funding Review Process Update ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT APRIL 18, 2022 Concerns of Inequitable Distribution* Problem: we are trying to address 50 years of inequitable distribution of funding through the Cultural Funding programs due to the historical policies, practices, and (in)accessibility of our programs. *Data shows leadership/staff demographics FY15-FY 21 only. We recognize this is only one indicator. Impetus to Revise the Guidelines 2017: Cultural Funding Program Responsiveness Working Group 2018: Funding cuts for the first time (11%) COA Equity Statement: Strategic Direction 2023 Cultural Funding Review Goal The desired goal is to sustain and grow Austin’s cultural infrastructure so that all may share in the economic and employment benefits of the heritage preservation and creative sectors, as well as upholding the City’s commitment to racial equity per the City of Austin’s Equity Office standards and goals. Cultural Funding Review Process Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3 Phase 4 Phase 4.5 Launch + Listen Record + Analyze Equity Audit 9 1 0 2 • 1 town hall • 2 workshops • 39 listening sessions • 540 participants • 1,160 engagement hours • Feedback compiled and synthesized • Organized into specific themes and directions for further discussion • Staff assessment of programs • Equity trainings for staff and commissions • Heritage Tourism and Music and Entertainment added • Process audit with ODD • MJR Recommendations Program Development • 1500+ hours of staff planning • 2 public presentations • Feedback: comment box, 1:1 meetings, Q+A, direct communications, Commission meetings 2 0 2 2 Program Refinement • 1 presentation • Regular VOOH and 3 guided discussions • Arts Commission chats • Feedback collection including survey • Feedback will be used to refine the program before official launch • Evaluation is ongoing! Feedback informed every aspect of program development including program priorities, application scoring, rubrics, and process improvements. Guided by Community Engagement Large Events 6 community events 1,002 attendees Facilitated Conversations 5 facilitated conversations 61 attendees Multiple Public Presentations 4 Guided Conversations with in-meeting Menti surveys 1:1 Meetings with staff/consultant Virtual Open Office Hours 2-4 times per month Small Group Listening Sessions Newsletters every month 10 listening sessions 213 attendees Virtual Comment Box Holistic Funding Ecosystem Nexus • Nurture new and emerging applicants by funding creative public projects developed through community activation and/or collaboration Elevate • Creative and administrative expenses of cultural producers that amplify equity and prioritize inclusive programming. Thrive • Focused …
Corridor Construction Program Burnet Road Selection Process Recommendation ARTS COMMISSION APRIL 18, 2022 Burnet Road Boulevard Budget: $139,000 (White Horse Trail and US 183) o A mainstay of Austin culture o Many businesses, shopping centers, restaurants, neighborhoods, and mixed- o Neighborhoods care deeply about history as well preserving elements of “old o Iconic businesses and signage & local landmarks o Investments in spaces to support younger generations Districts 7 Character: use developments Austin" o o o o Possible locations include: ◦ Gualt Lane Gateway ◦ W. Braker Lane ◦ US HWY 183 ◦ Burnet Lane Triangle ◦ Koenig Lane/Allandale Road Gateway Burnet Road Goals Jury and Advisors The goals of this opportunity are to select an artist, in collaboration with project stakeholders and City staff, who will design artwork that: • Honors the many iconic businesses both present and past that have served the communities and created destinations along the corridor; • Honors the history of the complex network of neighborhoods that surround and support the corridor; • Delights viewers across the generations; • Integrates seamlessly into the construction of the corridor; Is made from durable and low maintenance materials; and • • Enriches or adds to the depth/breadth of the City of Austin’s public art collection. Project Goals & Selection Process Jury: Diana Wheeler, Allendale Neighborhood Association Anne-Charlotte Patterson, Crestview Neighborhood Association Susan Burneson, Voices of the Violet Crown Daniel Arredondo, Artist Sean Barry, Corridor Program Office, Burnet PM Heidi Schmalbach, District 7 Arts Commissioner Stephanie Lemmo, Art in Public Places Panel Tammie Rubin, Art in Public Places Panel Chair Advisors: Kelly Buethe, Corridor Program Office Request for Qualifications Open to artists in the Corridor Construction Artist Pool. • Opt-in period open 10/20/20 to 11/6/20 • Ar(cid:415)st Informa(cid:415)on Mee(cid:415)ng 10/29/20 • Jury + advisors review 36 applications 3/11/22 • Interviews with two artists/artist teams held 3/24/22 Corridor| Burnet Road Corridor Pool (114) Corridor Pool Burnet Opt- In (36)* Burnet Opt- In Burnet Finalists (2) Burnet Finalists 14% 11% 2% 1% 2% 13% 37% 20% 41% 39% 2% 18% 4 2 1 0 0 3 18 8 17 13 0 6 11% 6% 3% 0% 0% 8% 50% 22% 47% 36% 0% 17% 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 100% 0% 0% 0% 100% 0% 0% 16 13 2 1 2 15 42 23 47 44 2 21 Hispanic …
Longhorn Dam Bridge AIPP Project Prospectus Approval A N N A B R A D L E Y, A I P P STA F F A P R I L 4 , 2 0 2 2 Project Background Preliminary Engineering Report (PER) • 2018-2020: PER evaluated 5 bridge alternatives developed from community input • Alternative B (Wishbone- shaped bridge) received the most overall support 2020 Active Transportation and Safety Bond • $15M allocated for design + construction Alternative B (Wishbone-shaped bridge) presented at third public meeting in December 2019 2 Key areas at the new Longhorn Dam Wishbone Bridge: ◦ Canterbury Street Improvements ◦ Plaza Area ◦ Pleasant Valley Underpass Artwork Budget: $190,000 Artwork Project Goals What is important to you, as a community? An iconic artwork that heightens awareness of the area Uses or promotes sustainable materials Incorporates Wayfinding Illustrates diversity and history of the neighborhood CIP Project Improvements include: New physical separation between north and southbound travel lanes throughout most of the project area to address head-on crash patterns. Reconfigured street space over the bridge to a single northbound traffic lane and two southbound lanes between the south Krieg Field entrance and Canterbury Street, with multiple new dedicated left turn lanes. A new 12-foot-wide shared use path on the west side of South Pleasant Valley Road and an 8-foot-wide shared use path on the east side. Community Engagement meeting via Zoom on March 9,2022 using Meni.com Public Art Intent & Goals The goals of this specific public art project are to: •Creates an iconic artwork that identifies the Longhorn Dam area; •Reflects the natural environment of the lake and surroundings; •Visually or physically integrates wayfinding elements that help inform and direct pedestrian traffic; •Enriches or adds to the depth/breadth of the City of Austin’s public art collection. Artist Eligibility Applicants should meet the following requirements: Artists living and working in the State of Texas area are eligible to apply. Artists are invited artists to submit a Request for Qualifications and respond to questions determined by the project team, specific to the Longhorn Dam Wishbone Bridge AIPP project. •What does the jury need to know about you and your work as an artist? What is your public art experience? •What excites you about the Longhorn Dam Wishbone Bridge public art project? •What is your connection to the Longhorn Shores and Central East Austin neighborhood? Are you familiar …
Elevate SUMMARY OF CHANGES Revisions to pilot guidelines and rubric since October 2021: • Reworked scoring rubric and guidelines language, in keeping with community feedback, Equity Office consultation, and legal guidance. Important terms and definitions added to the glossary. Request amount revised to reflect current HOT funding budget. Program description better reflects the origins and purpose of the program • • • • General guidelines language updates to clarify program goals. • Maximum award amount increased from $20,000 to $50,000 1 Elevate Pilot Year Draft Guidelines - REVISED FORMATTING WILL BE ADDED ONCE TEXT IS APPROVED [Cover page] Elevate: funding for cultural productions Pilot Program Annual Term, 2-Year Review Panel Cycle Contracts funded between $7,500 and $50,000 (dependent on available HOT funding). Up to 100 contracts awarded. Pilot Guidelines For activities taking place (dates TBD) [Web page link] [logo] City of Austin [logo] Economic Development Department 2 elevate (verb) raise or lif t (something) up to a higher position Program Overview Annual Term, 2 Year Review Panel Cycle Contracts funded between $7,500 and $50,000 Elevate: Amplifying equity in Austin’s diverse arts and cultural sector This program seeks to provide funding in support of organizations, individuals, creative businesses, and unincorporated groups that produce culturally vibrant and diverse artistic content for the public. This funding broadly supports the creative, administrative, and operational expenses incurred in the production of creative activities and events for the people of Austin and its tourists. This investment in Austin’s cultural producers will elevate the City’s diverse arts and culture tourism sector, amplify equity, and prioritize inclusive programming. Priority will be given to those who have been at immediate risk of cultural erasure and displacement within Austin and/or have been institutionally marginalized and under-funded by the City of Austin Cultural Arts Division. Key Elements • Applicants must have a one-year history of operating in the cultural sector in the Austin metro area and must produce public arts/culture activities (within the Austin 10-1 districts and ETJ) that add to the City’s diverse arts and culture tourism sector. • Applicants who prefer to work with a Fiscal Sponsor may do so. Fiscal Sponsorship will not be a requirement for applicants. • Awards will be based on the application and alignment with the program’s funding priorities. Operational budget will not be the primary factor in determining award amounts. • Applications will be reviewed and scored by review panels, reflective of the …
Nexus SUMMARY OF CHANGES Revisions to pilot guidelines and rubric since October 2021: • Reworked scoring rubric and guidelines language, in keeping with community feedback, Equity Office consultation, and legal guidance. Important terms and definitions added to the glossary in the Program Details Document. • • Request amount revised to reflect current HOT funding budget. • Program description better reflects the origins and purpose of the program • General guidelines language updates to clarify program goals. 1 Nexus Pilot Year Draft Guidelines - REVISED FORMATTING WILL BE ADDED ONCE TEXT IS APPROVED [Cover page] Nexus: nurture new and emerging applicants in the creative community Pilot Program Project Support, two opportunities to apply. Approximately 40-50 contracts awarded per cycle. $5,000 award amount. Pilot Guidelines For projects taking place between DATE and DATE [Web page link] [logo] City of Austin [logo] Economic Development Department 2 nexus (noun) a connection or series of connections linking two or more things Program Overview Annual term, two opportunities to apply $5,000 contracts Nexus: nurture new and emerging applicants in the creative community The Nexus program is designed to nurture new and emerging applicants in the creative community in support of creative public programming for the city and its tourists through community activation and collaboration. Collaborations might include projects that involve artists, culturally specific groups, groups representing LGBTQIA and disability communities, non-profits, social advocacy organizations, and similar. Applicants who are new to City funding, particularly those who have been at immediate risk of cultural erasure and displacement within Austin and/or have been institutionally marginalized will be prioritized. Key Elements • This program is intended to nurture new and emerging applicants in the creative community. • This program funds community-centered art projects of all kinds. • This program highlights community voices and encourages resourcefulness of applicants by centering the program around partnerships, in which all collaborators share decision-making power in the creative direction of the projects. • Applications are reviewed and scored by an internal panel of City of Austin staff. • Applicants who prefer to work with a Fiscal Sponsor may do so. Fiscal Sponsorship is not a requirement for applicants. Who can apply Applicant eligibility criteria is outlined below, with greater detail provided in the Scoring Rubric. Funding is not guaranteed if you meet all the minimum requirements; rather, funding will be awarded based on the overall score of your application which includes consideration of our …
Thrive SUMMARY OF CHANGES Revisions to pilot guidelines and rubric since October 2021: Reworked scoring rubric and guidelines language, in keeping with community feedback, Equity Office consultation, and legal guidance. Important terms and definitions added to the glossary. Minimum and maximum award amounts revised according to public feedback that $50,000 is a minimum meaningful award amount. o Minimum award amount changed from $30,000 to $70,000 o Maximum award changed from $50,000 to $120,000 o NOTE: this amount is based on financial limitations due to the pandemic, staff recommends that request amounts for this program be as high as $200,000 in the future when the HOT funding budget allows. Program description better reflects the origins and purpose of the program Several changes made so that the pilot program is more focused on sustainability rather than just programmatic growth. Growth is still encouraged throughout the program for organizations that are positioned to do so. Cohort requirements have been more fully described and participation requirements have been General guidelines language updates to clarify program goals. Language added and edited in response to clarify that sponsored projects are ineligible for this reduced. program. 1 Thrive Pilot Year Draft Guidelines - REVISED FORMATTING WILL BE ADDED ONCE TEXT IS APPROVED [Cover page] Thrive: Organizational investment for arts and culture non-profits Pilot Program 2 Year Contract Term. Request amounts between $70,000 and $120,000 per pilot program year. Approximately 30-45 contracts awarded. Pilot Guidelines For activities taking place (dates TBD) [Web page link] [logo] City of Austin [logo] Economic Development Department 2 thrive (verb) grow or develop well or vigorously; to prosper Program Overview 2 Year Contract Term. Approximately 30-45 contracts awarded Request amounts between $70,000 and $120,000 per year This program seeks to address a long-term need for intentional investment to support and develop arts organizations and cultural institutions of, by, and for communities that are at immediate risk of cultural erasure and displacement within Austin and/or have been institutionally marginalized and under- funded by the City of Austin Cultural Arts Division. Through a combination of funding, peer leadership, and networking model, this program will make Austin’s diverse cultures more widely visible and accessible by providing funds to sustain and grow organizations that are deeply rooted in, and reflective of those key constituencies. To directly address historic inequities in our own funding models and meet our goals of …
ARTS COMMISSION MEETING April 18, 2022 AT 6:00 PM Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001 301 W 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 by 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. To register, contact Jesús Pantel at jesus.pantel@austintexas.gov or at 512- 974-9315. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Michelle Polgar – Chair, Celina Zisman – Vice Chair, Brett Barnes, Jaime Castillo, Lulu Flores, Felipe Garza, Acia Gray, kYmberly Keeton, Amy Mok, Heidi Schmalbach, Rick Van Dyke CALL TO ORDER – 6:01 PM AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers who register to speak no later than Noon the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. Approve the minutes for the Arts Commission meetings on: i. January 31, 2022 ii. February 24, 2022 iii. March 27, 2022 Motioned: Polgar Seconded: Castillo Approved 10-0, Commissioners Barnes absent 2. CHAIR’S REPORT a. Chair’s Report: Check in - Commissioner Polgar b. Art in Public Places Liaison Report - Commissioner Barnes c. Austin Economic Development Corporation/Cultural Trust Advisory Committee Report – Carl Settles d. Downtown Commission Report – Commissioner Mok 3. SPECIAL PRESENTATION Chief Administrative Officer Rescheduled to next month a. Convention Center expansion – Katy Zamesnik, Austin Convention Center Department b. Consortium Update – Cory Baker, President and Chief Executive Officer, The Long Center for the Performing Arts and Anne Gatling Haynes, Chief Transactions Officer, Austin Economic Development Corporation a. Community Navigators Update – Donald Jackson, Economic Development Department Business Process Consultant b. Hotel Occupancy Tax Update – Sylnovia Holt-Rabb, Economic Development Rescheduled to next month 4. STAFF BRIEFINGS Department Director Motion to move to Item 6a. Motioned: Barnes Approved 11-0 Seconded: Gray Manager 5. OLD BUSINESS c. Cultural Funding Review Process Update – Meghan Wells, Cultural Arts Division a. Discussion and Possible Action on Cultural Funding Review Process, including i. Staff Presentation of Revised Draft Cultural Funding Program Guidelines ii. Commission Questions and Recommendations iii. Community Engagement and Feedback Process and Schedule b. Discussion …
ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL AGENDA Regular Meeting - Monday, April 4, 2022; 6:00 PM The Art in Public Places Panel will participate by videoconference. The public may attend the meeting online with pre-registration. Please contact curt.gettman@austintexas.gov by April 3rd at 12 PM to pre-register. ART IN PUBLIC PLACES (AIPP) PANEL MEMBERS: Tammie Rubin – Chair, Jacob Villanueva –Vice Chair, Brett Barnes – Arts Commission Liaison, Sarah Carr, Stephanie Lemmo, J Muzacz, Joel Nolan 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 posted on the agenda. 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. Approve minutes from the AIPP Panel meeting held on 3/7/2022 2. 3. 4. CHAIR’S REPORT ARTS COMMISSION LIAISON REPORT NEW BUSINESS a. Discussion and Action Items i) Review Mid-Design for the Pharr Tennis Center AIPP Project --Rakhee Jain Desai and Melissa Knight, Artists ii) Review the Updated Mid-Design presentation for Austin Travis County Emergency Medic Services/Austin Fire Department Facilities Renovation Art in Public Places Embedded Artist Project --Luis Angulo, Artist iii) Approve the Prospectus for the Longhorn Dam Bridge AIPP Project --Anna Bradley, AIPP staff iv) Approve the Joint Prospectus for Brownie, Highland, and Duncan Parks AIPP Projects --Alex Irrera, AIPP staff Approve Selection Process Recommendation for Corridor Construction Program v) Burnet Road AIPP Project --Alex Irrera, AIPP staff 5. 6. OLD BUSINESS STAFF BRIEFINGS Project a. Update on Northwest Airport Blvd Corridor Construction Art in Public Places ADJOURNMENT GENERAL ANNOUNCEMENTS / FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 7. 8. 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 - including translation and interpretation services. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days before the meeting date. For assistance, please contact the Economic Development Department at 512-974-7819 or Relay Texas 7-1-1.
ARTS COMMISSION MEETING March 27, 2022 at 1:00 PM Arts Commission Annual Retreat Economic Development Department 5202 East Ben White Boulevard, Suite 400 Austin, TX 78741 Some members of the Arts Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by 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 at To jesus.pantel@austintexas.gov or at 512-974-9315. participation. register, contact remote Pantel Jesús for CALL TO ORDER – 1:00 PM 1. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 2. CHAIR’S REPORT 3. OLD BUSINESS a. Framework for Retreat Conversation b. Review Role of the Arts Commission and Arts Commission Goals c. Communication Guidelines a. Discussion and Possible Action on Budget Recommendations b. Discussion and Possible Action on Community Equity Working Group c. Discussion and Possible Action Regarding Cultural Arts Funding Revised Update Guideline Release and Community Engagement/Feedback Process 4. NEW BUSINESS a. Discuss the Vision for Austin’s Creative Community and Creative Economy b. Discuss Roadmap 5. ITEMS FOR INFORMATION 6. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 7. ADJOURNMENT – 4:00 PM The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Jesús Pantel at the Economic Development Department, at 512-974-9315, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Arts Commission, please contact Jesús Pantel at 512-974-9315.
ARTS COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20220327-3.a Seconded By: Commissioner Jaime Castillo Date: 3-27-2022 Subject: Arts Commission FY23 Budget Recommendation Motioned By: Commissioner Lulu Flores Recommendation Recommendation to approve two Full Time Employees (FTE) for the Economic Development and the Cultural Arts Division in the FY23 budget. Description of Recommendation to Council Our Commission recommends that the City include two additional full time employees (FTE) in the FY23 budget for Economic Development Department (EDD). One FTE will be a Business Process Specialist for EDD to support the department’s divisions that manage HOT funds. The other will be a Community Engagement Specialist/ Consultant for the Cultural Arts Division. Rationale: The Economic Development Department is launching HOT funded programs in three different divisions. The successful rollout and execution of these programs will require coordination, monitoring, data collection and ongoing review. It will also require robust and coordinated community outreach and engagement. A Business Process Specialist will provide critical support in program integration and execution across all three divisions. Members of the Arts Community, especially those from historically underrepresented and underfunded groups, are facing continuing financial challenges such as housing, affordable creative spaces, low incomes and access to opportunity and growth. Cultural Arts Division (CAD) programs provide opportunities to alleviate some of the challenges. The information is complex and dense. New applicants usually require assistance in determining their eligibility and meeting milestones throughout the process. CAD administrators conduct Information Sessions and Open Office Hours to provide applicant assistance. Invitations depend on channels that reach existing applicants or potential applicants that are already knowledgeable about the programs. A Community Engagement Specialist (or Consultant) will provide the communication and outreach skills needed to inform and assist potential applicants. Thus, relieving CAD administrators of these additional tasks to focus on their primary job functions. The Community Engagement Specialist will also bring additional strategies to address equitable access to EDD programs. Vote For: Commissioner Michelle Polgar, Chair 1 of 2 6-0 none none Commissioner Celina Zisman, Vice Chair Commissioner Jaime Castillo Commissioner Lulu Flores Commissioner Acia Gray Commissioner Amy Mok Against: Abstain: Absent: Commissioner Brett Barnes Commissioner Felipe Garza Commissioner kYmberly Keeton Commissioner Heidi Schmalbach Commissioner Rick van Dyke Attest: Jesus Pantel, Arts Commission Staff Liaison 2 of 2
ARTS COMMISSION MEETING March 27, 2022 at 1:00 PM Arts Commission Annual Retreat Economic Development Department 5202 East Ben White Boulevard, Suite 400 Austin, TX 78741 Some members of the Arts Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in‐person or remotely by 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 at To jesus.pantel@austintexas.gov or at 512‐974‐9315. participation. register, contact remote Pantel Jesús for CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Michelle Polgar – Chair, Celina Zisman – Vice Chair, Jaime Castillo, Lulu Flores, Acia Gray, Amy Mok Commissioners Barnes, Garza, Keeton, Schmalbach, and Van Dyke absent MINUTES CALL TO ORDER – 1:05 PM 1. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 2. CHAIR’S REPORT 3. OLD BUSINESS a. Framework for Retreat Conversation b. Review Role of the Arts Commission and Arts Commission Goals c. Communication Guidelines a. Discussion and Possible Action on Budget Recommendations To put forward a recommendation for two Full Time Equivalents, a Business Process Consultant through the Economic Development Department for the Cultural Arts Division’s use, and a Community Engagement Specialist for the Economic Development Department. Motioned: Flores Approved 6-0, Commissioners Barnes, Garza, Keeton, Schmalbach, and Van Dyke absent Seconded: Castillo b. Discussion and Possible Action on Community Equity Working Group Update Equity Action Working Group members listed. The public community members were: Alka Bhanot; Miriam Conner; Celia Hughes; Stephanie Lang; Daniel Llanes; Monica Maldonado; Roshan Manjunath; Rassin Mcintosh; Pamela Owens; Lilia Raquel Rosas; Mueni Rudd; Rock Shum Guideline Release and Community Engagement/Feedback Process 4. NEW BUSINESS c. Discussion and Possible Action Regarding Cultural Arts Funding Revised a. Discuss the Vision for Austin’s Creative Community and Creative Economy b. Discuss Roadmap 5. ITEMS FOR INFORMATION 6. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Emergency funding for former Community Initiatives recipients Cultural Funding Review Guidelines Report from Equity Working Group 7. ADJOURNMENT – 3:52 PM The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Jesús Pantel at the Economic Development Department, at 512‐974‐9315, for additional information; TTY users …
ARTS COMMISSION MEETING March 21, 2022 AT 6:00 PM Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001 301 W 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 by 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. To register, contact Jesús Pantel at jesus.pantel@austintexas.gov or at 512-974-9315. AGENDA CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Michelle Polgar – Chair, Celina Zisman – Vice Chair, Brett Barnes, Jaime Castillo, Lulu Flores, Felipe Garza, Acia Gray, kYmberly Keeton, Amy Mok, Heidi Schmalbach, Rick Van Dyke CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers who register to speak no later than Noon the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. Approve the minutes for the regular Arts Commission meeting on: i. January 31, 2022 ii. February 24, 2022 2. CHAIR’S REPORT a. Chair’s Report – Commissioner Polgar i. Communication Guidelines b. Art in Public Places Liaison Report - Commissioner Barnes c. Austin Economic Development Corporation/Cultural Trust Advisory Committee Report – Carl Settles d. Downtown Commission Report – Commissioner Mok 3. STAFF BRIEFINGS a. Community Navigators Update – Donald Jackson, Economic Development Department Business Process Consultant b. Hotel Occupancy Tax Update – Laura Odegaard, Cultural Investment Program Manager Manager c. Cultural Funding Review Process Update – Meghan Wells, Cultural Arts Division d. Art in Public Places 2021 Year in Review – Marjorie Flanagan, Acting Art in Public Places Program Manager 4. NEW BUSINESS a. Miscellaneous Discussion and Possible Action Items i. Feedback on City budget priorities ii. Legal Consideration Related to Equity in Economic Development Department Hotel Occupancy Tax Funded Programs iii. Future Emergency Funding Priorities 5. OLD BUSINESS a. Discussion and Possible Action on Cultural Funding Review Process i. Public Engagement Process Relating to Draft Guideline Release ii. Discussion and Possible Action on CFR Timeline b. Discussion and Possible Action on Community Navigators and Fiscal Sponsorship c. Discussion and Possible Action on Working Groups and Working Group Updates i. Joint Music/Arts Commission Working Group to identify additional funding resources and …
