Torch Literary Arts Amplifying Black Women Writers TorchLiteraryArts.org ABOUT TORCH Founded in 2006, Torch Literary Arts is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization established to create advancement opportunities for Black women writers. We publish contemporary writing by emerging and experienced writers alike in our online publication, Torch Magazine. Our features have gone on to be nominated for the Emmy Awards, the Pulitzer Prize, and have received notable honors including the NAACP Image Award, National Book Award, Lambda Literary Award, and more. Torch has featured work by Tayari Jones, Sharon Bridgforth, Ebony Stewart, Lisa B. Thompson, Crystal Wilkinson, Sapphire, Evie Shockley, Natasha Trethewey, Shay Youngblood, and many others. Our programs include the Wildfire Reading Series, creative writing and professional development workshops, an annual retreat, and special events with community partners like the Texas Book Festival. “...if you are free, you need to free somebody else. If you have some power, then your job is to empower somebody else. ” ― Toni Morrison THE ISSUE Black women writers live and create at the intersection of race, gender, and class. Representation and visibility remain scant across the literary landscape. Creating and supporting spaces for the advancement of Black women writers is vital to ensure our voices are heard and our stories are available for all readers. While Toni Morrison was an editor at Random House, their first female Black editor, the number of Black authors published increased to 3.3 percent. However, the percentage dropped quickly after her departure. Of 512 books published by Random House between 1984 and 1990, only two were by Black authors: Morrison's Beloved and Sarah Phillips by Andrea Lee. One person cannot be responsible for changing the systems that continue to marginalize and silence diverse voices. From hiring publishing executives of color to supporting emerging writers finding their way to the page, we must encourage, empower, and nurture writers of color for inclusive representation on and off the page. Torch Literary Arts works to combat these disheartening statistics and make a meaningful impact in the lives of Black women by encouraging and amplifying their work as writers and industry leaders. 11% In 2018, only 11% of books published were by people of color. New York Times 5.3% In 2023, just 5.3% of people in publishing identified as Black or being of African Decent. Diversity Baseline Survey, Lee & Low Books 8% Only eight percent of literary journals pay contributors. The Millions …
Community Navigator Program Update March 18, 2024 Community Navigator Program Overview Program Intent: The Economic Development Department’s (EDD) 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 in the Austin-Round Rock Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). The Austin-Round Rock MSA includes Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, and Williamson counties. Community Navigator Program Overview Community Navigators: EDD and partners informed the community about the program Interested clients will register for services using the Portal System 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 the Portal System on service notes. Partners will invoice EDD for services; EDD will pay invoices based The Community Navigator Program has been ongoing since March 2022. Community Navigator Program Overview Austin Revitalization Authority 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 (HAAM) Mission Capital On the Money Finance LLC The Volt Studios Visual Matters Consulting Task Category Target Client Base Vendor Name A: One-on-One Technical Assistance A: Technical Assistance Cohort Classes B: Application Assistance for Grants Small Businesses Non-Profits Creative Professionals 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 No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Funding Exhausted Funding Exhausted (Federal Health Coverage) Yes Yes Yes No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No No No No Yes Yes No Yes No Yes No Yes No No Current Program Results To Date: -327 Applications received -$326,800 expensed as of 03/18/2024 Community Navigator Program We look forward to working with you!
Live Music Venue and Creative Space Regulatory Incentives Phase II March 2024 Council Actions Resolution No. 20220728-094: Establish the criteria to be a Live Music Venue Create live music venue bonus and incentive program for new and existing venues, Initiate changes to Land Development Code Section 25 Resolution No. 20220901-089: Develop and adopt clear creative space land use definitions Create creative space bonus and incentive program for new and existing including venues Create new code elements to "Diversify, sustain, and cultivate the city's culture, music, and arts communities and industries“ Criteria for designation of Arts Districts Initiate changes to Land Development Code Section 25 Resolution No. 20230921-102: Develop LDC amendments with incentives for cultural space preservation and creation by Spring 2024 Bring an ordinance establishing a Cultural District Overlay initiated in Resolution No. 20220728-094 and Resolution No. 20220901-089 by Spring 2024 Guidance from Resolutions Resolution No. 20220728-094: Fee Waivers Modified Parking requirements Expanded facilitation of affordable commercial space... in new construction Prioritization of music venue or creative space as a community benefit for density bonuses or other overlays within the Red River Cultural District, East 6th Street Entertainment District, and Warehouse Entertainment District Resolution No. 20220901-089: Fee waivers Modified parking requirements Expedited permitting process "increase in floor to area ratio (FAR) in square footage or other appropriate development incentive related to what is provided for the dedicated creative space" "Prioritization of creative space as a city-wide community benefit as it relates to density bonus programs, Planned Unit Development (PUD) zoning, or within other regulatory plans Increased flexibility in development regulations and opportunities for modification of policies, rules, codes, or design standards Permit accessory use as a theater, art gallery, or art workshop in all commercial and industrial/warehousing zoning districts Goals Develop a paper district that is not mapped; no change to a property’s zoning will be made through initial district adoption After adoption, owners of eligible properties may then request a rezoning to incorporate “Creative District (CD)” code string Goals and Timeline Milestones Codes and Ordinances Backup Due: March 13 Arts Commission: March 18 Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee (COJC): March 20 Music Commission (tentative): April 1 PC Backup Due: April 16 City Council Set Date: April 18 Planning Commission …
HOTEL OCCUPANCY TAX UPDATE MARCH 18, 2024 C I T Y O F A U S T I N EC ON OMI C D EVEL OP M EN T 1 Hotel Occupancy Tax – February 2024 o Total HOT Collections February 2024 = $10,560,588 o 50% towards FY24 Approved Budget of $152,172,894 o Cultural Arts Fund February 2024 = $1,008,583 HOT Cultural Arts Fund - FY24 Approved Budget for FY24: $14,525,594 FY24 HOT Cultural Arts Fund in the bank: $7,275,248 HOT Collections (FY22-FY24) $15.65M $12.87M Questions
Cultural Arts Funding Update Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor Cultural Arts Division Economic Development Department March 18, 2024 C I T Y O F A U S T I N EC ON OMI C D EVEL OP M EN T 1 Status Reports • Contracts and Payments • Arts Education (ARPA) • Grant Funded activities this month • • • • Elevate • Nexus Thrive • Nexus Elevate Thrive C I T Y O F A U S T I N EC ON OMI C D EVEL OP M EN T 2 Elevate Grant Status – 200 awardees • 199 Contracts sent (TLC holds the contract) • 198 Contracts signed/processed • 199 test payments issued • 199 test payments verified • 198 First payments issued (50% of award) - 99% of awardees • 143 Second payments issued (40% of award) - must complete Miles Partnership Marketing class (+take survey) or post to Visit Austin (+tell COA staff) to be eligible. • 5 Third payments issued (10% of award) - successful Final Report closeout • $4,999,000 Total Distribution to date ($6,250,000 total) • COA staff working with TLC re: outreach to non-responsive awardees. C I T Y O F A U S T I N EC ON OMI C D EVEL OP M EN T 3 Nexus Grant Status – 51 awardees • 51 Contracts sent (COA holds the contract) • 51 Contracts signed/processed • 42 test payments issued • 42 test payments verified • 50 First payments issued (90% of total award = $4,500) • 8 Second payments issued (10% of award) - successful Final Report closeout • $189,000 Total Distribution to date • TLC invoiced 11/1; takes 2-3 business days to process; Nexus funds will be distributed when it hits TLC account to those who have signed an agreement/ submitted financial information/ verified a test payment. C I T Y O F A U S T I N EC ON OMI C D EVEL OP M EN T 4 Thrive Grant Status – 36 awardees • 36 Contracts sent (COA holds the contract) • 36 Contracts signed/processed • 36 test payments issued; 36 test payments verified • 36 First payments issued • 36 Second payments issued • 26 Third payments issued • $3,823,000 Total Distribution to date ($3,935,000 total in year 1) • Grant Administrator has met with each organization individually to set their strategic growth goals for Year …
KB Brookins 1 Letter of support for establishing an Austin Poet Laureate program Dear Austin City Council, Since the 1600’s, poet laureate positions have existed in cities, states, and countries to be stewards of poetry in their communities through programs that positively impact the general public. As of 2022, Austin is the only major city in Texas without a Poet Laureate program, and we, the undersigned, are of the belief that Austin could benefit from a socio-politically engaged Poet Laureate who uses poetry as a way to promote literacy across the city and to integrate poetry into the fabric of Austin’s history, politics, and culture. According to the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies, Texas ranks 42nd among states supporting artists in the US1. As of 2003, 121,074 adults in Central Texas either cannot read or struggle with reading2. For decades, many local organizations have created and nurtured Austin’s poetry scene with little to no budget and recognition, yet, University of Texas at Austin has one of the most nationally recognized MFA programs34, and Austin markets itself as a mecca for Texas arts. Having a poet laureate program would keep Austin accountable to its promise of being the arts center of Texas, and assist with improving Austin’s literacy rate. Also, local poets deserve an opportunity to shine. An adult Poet Laureate program has the potential to inspire Austin residents to read and write; to celebrate Austin’s literary scene; to nurture and amplify Austin-based poets of all ages through performances, teaching, and public speaking; and to create new ways of understanding Austin’s policies and culture via poems written by the Poet Laureate. We, the undersigned, call on Austin City Council to please do the following: - - Pass a resolution that makes Austin Poet Laureate an official city program run by the Austin Public Library, and provides Austin Public Library the authority to choose a Poet Laureate. Set aside $27,000 biennially in the City of Austin's budget for the Austin Poet Laureate program in perpetuity. - Allow Austin Public Library to establish a City Poet Laureate Committee that includes a representative of the library, a representative of the arts commission, and members of the city’s literature community. The City Poet Laureate Committee will review applications and recommend City Poet Laureate nominees to the head of the public library. 1 https://nasaa-arts.org/research/funding/#nasaa_field_8 2 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=208375#:~:text=Why%20is%20literacy%20so% 20important%3F&text=121%2C074%20adults%20in%20Central%20Texas%20cannot%20read%20or%2 0struggle%20with%20reading.&text=43%25%20of%20all%20adults%20with%20lowest%20literacy%20le vels%20live%20in%20poverty. 3 https://www.collegetransitions.com/blog/best-mfa-creative-writing-programs/ 4 https://designdash.com/2023/12/13/these-are-the-best-creative-writing-mfa-programs-in-the-u-s/ KB Brookins …
Arts Commission FY 24-25 Budget Recommendations DRAFT ● $548K for Cultural Arts Division staff and admin fees from General Fund, alleviating this expense from the limited Hotel Occupancy Tax reserved for CAD funding. $548,000 / City of Austin General Fund ● Fiscal support for Service Organizations to be issued $500,000 / City of Austin General Fund ● Fiscal support for Community Navigators in order to better support applicants during the cultural funding program application process, in particular for translation service providers. $1 Million / City of Austin General Fund ● Fiscal support to continue the Austin Civilian Conservation Core program. $1 Million / City of Austin General Fund ● Funding* to support the Austin Economic Development Corporation to continue implementing the Cultural Trust program, especially with Common Area Maintenance and other associated costs borne by operators who would be managing spaces for community use *Economic Development Department has provided funding to the extent feasible within their Department budget but cannot continue to contribute funding (see memo attached), so any funding for AEDC would need to be identified through another City source. (Amount?) Items from the Music Budget Requests to consider including: ● Fiscal support for the Creative Space Assistance Program – match FY23-34 funding lever. CSAP awards between $5,000 and $50,000 to commercial creative spaces facing displacement or new leases at higher and unaffordable rates. Grant funds may be used for revenue-generating space improvements, partial lease payments, and gap financing for creative space purchases. $1.5 Million/ City General Fund
REGUALR MEETING of the ARTS COMMISSION March 18, 2024, at 6:00 PM Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001. 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 The ARTS COMMISSION convened in a REGULAR meeting on 18, March 2024 at Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001. 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Commissioner Zisman called the ARTS COMMISSION Meeting to order at 6:07 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Celina Zisman, Heidi Schmalbach, Acia Gray, Amy Mok, Gina Houston, Felipe Garza, Nagavalli Medicharla, Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Monica Maldonado Board Members Absent: Faiza Kracheni, Michael Vernusky, Kate Csillagi CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Celina Zisman - Chair, Heidi Schmalbach - Vice Chair, Kate Csillagi, Monica Maldonado, Felipe Garza, Gina Houston, Michael Vernusky, Acia Gray, Faiza Kracheni, Amy Mok, Nagavalli Medicharla AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Bonnie from The Vortex spoke about the positive benefits they were able to achieve due to their Thrive grant. And to ask for help with support on communication to the arts community on the next round of Cultural Funding Programs APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Arts Commission Regular Meeting on February 26, 2023 The minutes from the meeting of February 26, 2024 were approved on Commissioner Gray’s motion, Commissioner Garza second on a 7-0 vote with Commissioner’s Maldonado, Kracheni, Vernusky, and Csillagi absent. . DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion of Chair’s Report on Staying Engaged by Chair Zisman An update was provided by Chair Zisman. Report of the Art in Public Places Liaison concerning actions taking during the February 26, 2024 meeting of the Art in Public Places Panel by Commissioner Maldonado An update was provided by Commissioner Maldonado Discussion of actions taken at the February 28, 2024 meeting of Austin Economic Development Corporation/Cultural Trust Advisory Committee’s last meeting by Board Chair Carl Settles A report was provided by Board Member Carl Settles. Update on actions taken at the February 21, 2024 Downtown Commission meeting by Commissioner Mok A report was provided by Commissioner Mok. Presentation by Brie Franco from the Intergovernmental Relations Office on the 2023 Texas Legislative Session A presentation was provided by Brie Franco Presentation by Matthew Hinsley on the history of Austin Classical Guitar A presentation was provided by Matthew Hinsley Presentation by Allison Orr of Forklift Danceworks on attending the first-ever White House Convening on Arts and Culture. A presentation was provided by Allison Orr Presentation by David …
ARTS COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240318-16 Date: 3/18/2024 Subject: Arts Commission FY 24-25 Budget Recommendations Motioned By: Commissioner Monica Maldonado Recommendation The recommendations set forth by the Arts Commission each work together to address exisiting deficits within Austin's arts and cultural ecosystem. Recognizing that the funds from HOT are not enough to serve the diverse entities within the community, the Arts Commission is making a series of recommendations that maximize the limited HOT fund, as well as highlight the need to further support for programs and organizations that serve the greater arts community as a whole. Description of Recommendation to Council ● $548K for Cultural Arts Division staff and admin fees from General Fund, alleviating this expense from the limited Hotel Occupancy Tax reserved for CAD funding. Seconded By: Commissioner Amy Wong Mok $548,000 / City of Austin General Fund ● Fiscal support for Cultural Arts Service Organizations to be issued to better support applicants during the cultural funding program application process, in particular for translation service providers. (Community Navigators* is an example of such a program that could be continued to provide equitable access to these funds in order to better serve the community. *The Community Navigators program needs to be updated based on the final reporting of its first iteration of the program.) $500,000 / City of Austin General Fund ● Fiscal support to continue the Austin Civilian Conservation Corps that works across departments and with external partners, that creates and supports pathways into employment and connects mission-aligned networks to form a larger collective, shaping Austin’s green workforce. $1 Million / City of Austin General Fund ● Funding to support the Austin Economic Development Corporation to continue implementing the Cultural Trust program, especially with Common Area Maintenance and other associated costs borne by operators who would be managing spaces for community use. $1 Million / City of Austin General Fund ● Fiscal support for the Creative Space Assistance Program – match FY23-34 funding lever. CSAP awards between $5,000 and $50,000 to commercial creative spaces facing displacement or new leases at higher and unaffordable rates. Grant funds may be used for revenue-generating space improvements, partial lease payments, and gap financing for creative space purchases. $1.5 Million/ City General Fund Rationale: Cross-sector collaboration is necessary for healthy, equitable, and thriving communities. Our artists and the arts and cultural sector are one of our greatest assets– they are the foundation of our identity …
REGULAR MEETING of the ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL Monday, March 4, 2024, at 6:00 PM Virtual Meeting Members of the ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL may be participating 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 frederico.geib@austintexas.gov or 512-974 - 3779. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Chair – Stephanie Lemmo, Vice Chair – J Muzacz, Sarah Carr, Taylor Davis, Kristi-Anne Shaer, Lisa Woods, 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 the minutes of the Art in Public Places Panel Regular Meeting on February 5, 2024. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. 2. 3. 4. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion of Chair’s Report on AIPP Panel Roster by Stephanie Lemmo Discussion of Arts Commission Liaison Report on Action Items from February 2024, Arts Commissions Meeting by Arts Commission Liaison Maldonado TEMPO Design Presentation by the Trail Conservancy Presentation of Downtown Austin Alliance Writing on the Walls Artwork Loan application by Raasin McIntosh, Downtown Austin Alliance Urban Activation Vice President and Designate AIPP Panel Member to join the Departmental Review Committee STAFF BRIEFINGS 6. 7. AIPP Staff Updates on Progression of Current Projects and Milestones Georgian Acres Neighborhood Park Artwork Dedication by Frederico Geib, AIPP Coordinator 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 Frederico Geib at the Economic Development Department at frederico.geib@austintexas.gov or 512-974 -3779 for additional information; TTY users' route through Relay Texas at 711.
ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL Regular Meeting Minutes The Art in Public Places Panel convened a regular meeting on Monday, March 4, 2024, via Zoom. Chair Stephanie Lemmo called the Meeting to order at 6:03 PM. Panel Members in Attendance: Chair Stephanie Lemmo, Vice Chair J Muzacz, and Panel Members Sarah Carr, Kristi-Anne Shaer, and Lisa Woods. Staff in Attendance: EDD staff: Cultural Arts Division Manager Meghan Wells. AIPP staff: Project Coordinators Alex Irrera, Ryan Runcie, Frederico Geib, Sean Harrison, and Lindsay Hutchens. Guests in Attendance: Caitlin Young and Mandi Thomas from The Trail Conservancy, Raasin McIntosh and Emily Risinger from the Downtown Austin Alliance. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES The minutes from the Art in Public Places Panel Regular Meeting on Monday, February 5, 2024, were approved on the motion of Vice Chair Muzacz and Panel Member Shaer seconded. Passed 3-0-1, with Panel Member Carr abstaining. Panel Members Davis and Woods, and Arts Commission Liaison Maldonado absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion of Chair’s Report on AIPP Panel terms by Chair Lemmo. Discussion ensued; Panel Member Carr’s final term ends in May and Vice Chair Muzacz’s final term will begin in July. EDD Staff Wells is administering the nominating committee to fill the upcoming vacancy. Discussion of Arts Commission Liaison Report on Action items from February 2024, Arts Commissions Meeting by Arts Commission Liaison Maldonado. Commissioner Maldonado absent. AIPP Staff Hutchens reported on action items from February Arts Commission meeting. TEMPO Design Presentation by the Trail Conservancy. No action was taken. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS ACTION: Presentation of Downtown Austin Alliance Writing on the Walls Artwork Loan application by Raasin McIntosh, Downtown Austin Alliance Urban Activation Vice President, and Designate AIPP Panel Member to join the Departmental Review 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Committee. Chair Lemmo moved to nominate Vice Chair Muzacz to join the Department Review Committee. Panel Member Carr seconded. Passed 5-0-0, with Panel Member Davis and Arts Commission Liaison Maldonado absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 6. AIPP Staff updated AIPP Panel on collections care and repairs, as well as recent attendance to the Texas Public Art Administrators conference in San Antonio. AIPP Staff Geib also invited AIPP Panelists to attend the upcoming Georgian Acres Neighborhood Park AIPP Artwork Dedication. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS None. ADJOURNMENT Chair Lemmo adjourned the meeting at 7:24 PM without objection. The minutes were approved at the April 1, 2024, Art in Public Places Panel …
REGUALR MEETING of the ARTS COMMISSION February 26, 2024, 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, Kate Csillagi, Monica Maldonado, Felipe Garza, Gina Houston, Michael Vernusky, 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 Approve the minutes of the Arts Commission Regular Meeting on January 29, 2023. 1. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion of Chair’s Report on Community Advocacy by Chair Zisman Discussion of the Art in Public Places Liaison Report by Commissioner Maldonado Discussion of the Austin Economic Development Corporation/Cultural Trust Advisory Committee by Austin Economic Development Corporation Board Member Carl Settles Discussion of the Downtown Commission by Commissioner Mok Presentation by Harold McMillan on a Black Artists and Professional Creatives Registry 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Presentation by Jon Windham and Melissa Ayala on the “Past Deposits from a Future Yet to Come” video art installation at Moody Amphitheater at Waterloo Park Presentation by KB Brookins on a proposal to create an Austin Poet Laureate program 8. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing regarding an update on the Hotel Occupancy Tax by Laura Odegaard, Cultural Investment Program Manager Staff update on the Cultural Arts Funding Programs by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Approve revised Regular Schedule Schedule Arts Commission Retreat Schedule Joint Retreat with Music Commission Discussion and Possible Action on FY24-25 Budget Requests Approve the Selection Process Recommendation for the Family Violence Shelter & Protection Center AIPP Project. Establish a nominating committee to fill Art in Public Places Panel vacancy. 16. WORKING GROUP UPDATES Update from Emergency …
HOTEL OCCUPANCY TAX UPDATE FEBRUARY 26, 2024 C I T Y O F A U S T I N EC ON OMI C D EVEL OP M EN T 1 Hotel Occupancy Tax – January 2024 o Total HOT Collections January 2024 = $31,412,114 o 43% towards FY24 Approved Budget of $152,172,894 o Cultural Arts Fund January 2024 = $2,999,857 HOT Cultural Arts Fund - FY24 Approved Budget for FY24: $14,525,594 FY24 HOT Cultural Arts Fund in the bank: $6,266,665 HOT Collections (FY22-FY24) $15.65M $12.87M Questions
Cultural Arts Funding Update Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor Cultural Arts Division Economic Development Department February 26, 2024 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 Status Reports • Contracts and Payments Elevate • Nexus Thrive • Arts Education (ARPA) • • • • • Nexus Elevate Thrive • Grant Funded activities this month • Guidelines updates 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 Elevate Grant Status – 200 awardees • 198 Contracts sent (TLC holds the contract) • 198 Contracts signed/processed • 199 test payments issued • 198 test payments verified • 198 First payments issued (50% of award) - 99% of awardees • 135 Second payments issued (40% of award) - must complete Miles Partnership Marketing class (+take survey) or post to Visit Austin (+tell COA staff) to be eligible. • 4 Third payments issued (10% of award) - successful Final Report closeout • $4,859,500 Total Distribution to date ($6,250,000 total) • COA staff working with TLC re: outreach to non-responsive awardees. 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 Nexus Grant Status – 51 awardees • 51 Contracts sent (COA holds the contract) • 51 Contracts signed/processed • 42 test payments issued • 42 test payments verified • 42 First payments issued (90% of total award = $4,500) • $189,000 Total Distribution to date • TLC invoiced 11/1; takes 2-3 business days to process; Nexus funds will be distributed when it hits TLC account to those who have signed an agreement/ submitted financial information/ verified a test payment. 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 Thrive Grant Status – 36 awardees • 36 Contracts sent (COA holds the contract) • 36 Contracts signed/processed • 36 test payments issued; 36 test payments verified • 36 First payments issued • 36 Second payments issued • 14 Third payments issued • $3,596,500 …
2024 Proposed Meeting Schedule (Revised) Arts Commission The montly meeting schedule is as follows: CANCELLED DATES January 15, 2024 (holiday) February 19, 2024 (holiday) MEETING DATES Monday, January 22, 2024 Monday, February 26, 2024 Monday, March 18, 2024 Monday, April 15, 2024 Monday, May 20, 2024 Monday, June 17, 2024 Monday, July 15, 2024 Monday, August 19, 2024 Monday, September 16, 2024 Monday, October 21, 2024 Monday, November 18, 2024 Monday, December 16, 2024 All meetings take place at 6 pm. LOCATION Austin Energy Austin Energy City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall 2024 Proposed Meeting Schedule Arts Commission The montly meeting schedule is as follows: CANCELLED DATES January 15, 2024 (holiday) February 19, 2024 (holiday) MEETING DATES Monday, January 22, 2024 Monday, February 26, 2024 Monday, March 18, 2024 Monday, April 15, 2024 Monday, May 20, 2024 Monday, June 17, 2024 Monday, July 15, 2024 Monday, August 19, 2024 Monday, September 16, 2024 Thursday, October 24, 2024 Monday, November 18, 2024 Monday, December 16, 2024 All meetings take place at 6 pm. LOCATION TBD TBD City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall City Hall
Artist Selection Memo to File January 30, 2024 Artist Selection Panel - Voting: Ja'nell N. Ajani - Curator and Scholar; Nate Cormier - Landscape Architect, Managing Studio Director, RIOS; Asha Iman Veal - Associate Curator, Museum of Contemporary Photography Chicago; Rakhee Jain - Artist, recent AIPP commission; Meaghan Perry - Objects and Variable Media Conservator, Momentum Art Conservation; Non-voting: Mari Boren, AIA, LEED-AP (BD+C), PMP - Project Manager, COA Capital Delivery Services; Akeshia Johnson Smothers - MSW Social Services Agreements Administration Manager, COA Public Health; Aaron Taylor - Designer, McKinney York Architects; Taylor Davis - AIPP Panel Liaison Art in Public Places Panel: Panel Chair Stephanie Lemmo, Vice Chair J Muzacz, Arts Commission Liaison Monica Maldonado, and Panel Members, Stephanie Lemmo, Lisa Woods, Kristi-Anne Shaer, Taylor Davis, and Sarah Carr. Family Violence Shelter & Protection Center AIPP Project Date: From: Copy: Subject: Background: AIPP panel approved a Request for Qualifications for Family Violence Shelter & Protection Center public art opportunity on September 11, 2023. The RFQ was approved by Arts Commission on September 18, 2023. Notice of the public art opportunity was posted through usual methods as well as through Social Media channels, EDD newsletter and through PublicArtist.org. The opportunity opened on November 6, 2023, with a submission deadline of December 19, 2023. 15 artists applied, and 5 were eligible for review by the selection panel. The project budget is $70,000. The Jury was supported by staff Meghan Wells - Cultural Arts Division Manager; Lindsay Hutchens - AIPP Coordinator; and Ryan Runcie - AIPP Coordinator. 1. Recommended Artist: Felipe Gomez “I am quite enthusiastic with the high-caliber of work and therapeutic design goals of artist Felipe Gomez, and look forward to seeing what this artist will materialize as the public art project for this specific environment and community.” - Asha Iman Veal “Great balance of inspired figurative capability and rich textures and phenomena that invite further experience of the work.” - Nate Cormier 2. Recommended Alternate: Sharon Keshishian “Sharon Keshishian is a wonderful artist who a long history of producing work around the city. For purposes of this project and the specification noted in the RFQ, the sole piece that stands from her submission is the work "Esperanza".” - Ja’nell N. Ajani “Extensive experience with permanent outdoor commissions. Thoughtful response about intentionality of creating work that will be climbed on by children (ATX sculpture). Colorful, whimsical design, lots of negative …
REGUALR MEETING of the ARTS COMMISSION February 26, 2024, at 6:00 PM Austin Energy, Mueller Assembly Rm 1111a (115). 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723 The ARTS COMMISSION convened in a REGULAR meeting on 26, February 2024 at Austin Energy, Mueller Assembly Rm 1111a (115). 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723 Commissioner Zisman called the ARTS COMMISSION Meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Celina Zisman, Acia Gray, Michael Vernusky, Amy Mok, Nagavalli Medicharla, Felipe Garza Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Heidi Schmalbach, Faiza Kracheni, Gina Houston, Monica Maldonado Board Members Absent: Kate Csillagi CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Celina Zisman - Chair, Heidi Schmalbach - Vice Chair, Kate Csillagi, Monica Maldonado, Felipe Garza, Gina Houston, Michael Vernusky, Acia Gray, Faiza Kracheni, Amy Mok, Nagavalli Medicharla AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Samuel from AFTV5 spoke about their positive experience begin funded by Cultural Arts Division and shared information about AFTV5 programming and mission APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Arts Commission Regular Meeting on January 29, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of January 29, 2024 were approved on Commissioner Houston motion, Commissioner Zisman second on a 8-0 vote with Commissioner Gray abstaining, and Commissioners Csillagi and Maldonado absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion of Chair’s Report on Community Advocacy by Chair Zisman An update was provided by Chair Zisman. Discussion of the Art in Public Places Liaison Report by Commissioner Maldonado An update was provided by Lindsay Hutchens, Art in Public Places Coordinator Discussion of the Austin Economic Development Corporation/Cultural Trust Advisory Committee by Austin Economic Development Corporation Board Member Carl Settles A report was provided by Board Member Carl Settles. Discussion of the Downtown Commission by Commissioner Mok A report was provided by Commissioner Mok. Presentation by Harold McMillan on a Black Artists and Professional Creatives Registry A presentation was provided by Harold McMillan. Presentation by Jon Windham and Melissa Ayala on the “Past Deposits from a Future Yet to Come” video art installation at Moody Amphitheater at Waterloo Park A presentation was provided by Jon Windham and Melissa Ayala. Presentation by KB Brookins on a proposal to create an Austin Poet Laureate program A presentation was provided by KB Brookins. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing regarding an update on the Hotel Occupancy Tax by Laura Odegaard, Cultural Investment Program Manager The presentation was made by Laura Odegaard, Cultural Investment Program Manager Staff update on the …
REGULAR MEETING of the ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL Monday, February 5, 2024, at 6:00 PM Economic Development Offices 5202 East Ben White Boulevard, Suite 400 Austin, Texas 78741 Members of the ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL may be participating 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 bryana.iglesias@austintexas.gov or 512-974 - 3787. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Chair – Stephanie Lemmo, Vice Chair – J Muzacz, Sarah Carr, Taylor Davis, Kristi-Anne Shaer, Lisa Woods, 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 the minutes of the Art in Public Places Panel Regular Meeting on January 8, 2024. 1. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion of Chair’s Report on Transitions by Stephanie Lemmo Discussion of Arts Commission Liaison Report on Action items from January 2024, Arts Commissions Meeting by Arts Commission Liaison Maldonado Discussion: Review the Mid Design for the North Lamar Corridor AIPP Project – Ernesto Hernandez Discussion: Review the Mid Design for the Brush Square Park AIPP Project – George Sabra 2. 3. 4. 5. 7. 8. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. ACTION: Approve the Final Design for the Brownie Neighborhood Park AIPP Project – Yareth Fernandez ACTION: Approve the Final Design for the AFD1/EMS6 Station AIPP Project – Rehab El Sadek ACTION: Approve the Selection Process Recommendation for the Family Violence Shelter & Protection Center AIPP Project AIPP Program Manager Update – Constance Y. White 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 Bryana Iglesias at the Economic Development Department at bryana.iglesias@austintexas.gov or 512-974-3787 for additional information; TTY users' route through Relay Texas at 711.
ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL Regular Meeting Minutes The Art in Public Places Panel convened a regular meeting on Monday, February 5th, 2024, via Zoom and in Economic Development Offices (Hybrid). Chair Stephanie Lemmo called the Meeting to order at 6:03 PM. Panel Members in Attendance: Chair Stephanie Lemmo, Vice Chair J Muzacz, and Panel Members Taylor Davis, Kristi-Anne Shaer, Lisa Woods, and Arts Commission Panel Liaison Monica Maldonado. Staff in Attendance: EDD staff: Cultural Arts Manager Meghan Wells. AIPP staff: Program Manager Constance Y. White, and Project Coordinators Alex Irrera, Ryan Runcie, Frederico Geib, Bryana Iglesias, and Lindsay Hutchens. Other City Staff: Kalpana Sutaria, EMS Regional Chief Eric Jakubauskas, Austin Public Health’s MSW Social Services Agreements Administration Manager Akeshia Johnson Smothers. Guests in Attendance: George Sabra, Rehab El Sadek, Ernesto Hernandez, Yareth Fernandez, Sue Lambe. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL -Sue Lambe informed the panel about the Public Art Training Program classes she is teaching, hosted at the Dougherty Arts Center. APPROVAL OF MINUTES The minutes from the Art in Public Places Panel Regular Meeting on Monday, January 8, 2024, were approved on the motion of Vice Chair Muzacz and Panel Member Shaer seconded. Passed 6-0-0. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion of Chair’s Report on Transitions by Chair Lemmo. Discussion ensued; Constance Y. White provided information on her future role at Austin Airport. Meghan Wells, manager of Cultural Arts Division reported that she is stepping in temporarily as AIPP manager until that role is filled. Discussion of Arts Commission Liaison Report on Action items from January 2024, Arts Commissions Meeting by Arts Commission Liaison Maldonado. Discussion ensued. Discussion: Review the Mid Design for the North Lamar Corridor AIPP Project. Ernesto Hernandez presented. No action was taken. Discussion: Review the Mid Design for the Brush Square Park AIPP Project. George Sabra presented. No action was taken. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS ACTION: Approve the Final Design for the Brownie Neighborhood Park AIPP Project. Yareth Fernandez presented. Approved on the motion of Panel Member Davis and Vice Chair Muzacz seconded. Passed 6-0-0. ACTION: Approve the Final Design for the AFD1/EMS6 Station AIPP Project. Rehab El Sadek presented. Approved on the motion of Panel Member Shaer and Panel Member Davis seconded. Passed 6-0-0. ACTION: Approve the Selection Process Recommendation for the Family Violence Shelter & Protection Center AIPP Project. Approved on the motion of Panel Member Davis and Vice Chair Muzacz seconded. …
