REGULAR MEETING OF THE ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. City of Austin, Permitting & Development Center, Room 1406 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission may be participating by videoconference. 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 Ryan Sperling at (512) 974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Seonhye “Sonny” Sin, Chair Sarah Chen Zachary Dolling Hugh Li Pierre Nguyễn Alpha Shrestha Hanna Huang Kuo Yang Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Sarah Xiyi Chen Hailey Easley Ahmed Moledina Sabrina Sha Nayer Sikder Nirali Thakkar AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on August 19, 2025. STAFF BRIEFING DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation regarding the Central Texas Food Bank’s outreach to Asian Americans, the impact of the cancellation of federal grants, and other areas affecting Asian Americans. Presentation by Beth Corbett, Vice President of Government Affairs, and Anurita Mittra, Vice President of Network Services, Central Texas Food Bank. 3. Discussion regarding which commission recommendations passed in the FY2025-26 budget. 4. Discussion exploring how commissioners could receive better and more expansive training. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Update from the City Manager’s Office Meeting Working Group regarding the fall meeting with the City Manager Office. 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 Ryan Sperling, Office or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. the City Clerk 974-3568 (512) of at For more information on the …
Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Minutes August 19, 2025 Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Regular Meeting Minutes Tuesday, August 19, 2025 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at the City of Austin, Permitting and Development Center, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Sin called the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE: Seonhye “Sonny” Sin, Chair Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Hanna Huang Alpha Shrestha Nayer Sikder Kuo Yang COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY: Sarah Chen Sarah Xiyi Chen Zachary Dolling Hailey Easley Hugh Li Nirali Thakkar PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on July 15, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of July 15, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Huang’s motion, Vice Chair Jambulapati’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Xiyi 1 Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Minutes August 19, 2025 Chen, Sikder and Yang were off the dais. Commissioners Moledina, Nguyễn, and Sha were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. Staff briefing from Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director, Office of Equity and Inclusion and Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Office of Equity and Inclusion regarding the current priorities of the Office of Equity and Inclusion as they relate to Asian Americans in Austin. Briefing provided by Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director, Office of Equity and Inclusion and Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Office of Equity and Inclusion. Staff briefing from Rick Ramirez, Deputy Officer, Intergovernmental Relations Office regarding newly signed laws from the 89th Texas Legislative session that impact Asian Americans Austinites. Briefing provided by Rick Ramirez, Deputy Officer, Intergovernmental Relations Office. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. 5. Discussion about Austin Police Department’s crimes Against Asian Austinites data. Discussed. Discussion regarding a potential Recommendation to Council to revamp the Community Liaison Office. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. Approve the dissolution of the Asian American Resource Center Working Group. The motion to approve the dissolution of the Asian American Resource Center Working Group was approved on Commissioner Huang’s motion, Commissioner Shrestha’s second on a 12-0 vote. Commissioners Moledina, Nguyễn, and Sha were absent. Approve the creation of an Asian American Resource Center Working Group focused on providing input and recommendations on the programming and projects at the Asian American …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION August 19, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. City of Austin, Permitting & Development Center, Room 1406 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission may be participating by videoconference. 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 Ryan Sperling at (512) 974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Seonhye “Sonny” Sin, Chair Sarah Chen Zachary Dolling Hanna Huang Ahmed Moledina Sabrina Sha Nayer Sikder Kuo Yang Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Sarah Xiyi Chen Hailey Easley Hugh Li Pierre Nguyễn Alpha Shrestha Nirali Thakkar AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on July 15, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing from Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director, Office of Equity and Inclusion and Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Office of Equity and Inclusion regarding the current priorities of the Office of Equity and Inclusion as they relate to Asian Americans in Austin. 3. Staff briefing from Rick Ramirez, Deputy Officer, Intergovernmental Relations Office regarding newly signed laws from the 89th Texas Legislative session that impact Asian American Austinites. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Discussion about Austin Police Department’s crimes against Asian Austinites data. 5. Discussion regarding a potential Recommendation to Council to revamp the Community Liaison Office. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve the dissolution of the Asian American Resource Center Working Group 7. Approve the creation of an Asian American Resource Center Working Group focused on providing input and recommendations on the programming and projects at the Asian American Resource Center. 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 …
Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Minutes July 15, 2025 Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Regular Meeting Minutes Tuesday, July 15, 2025 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at the City of Austin, Permitting and Development Center, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Sin called the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE: Seonhye “Sonny” Sin, Chair Zachary Dolling Hanna Huang Ahmed Moledina COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY: Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Sarah Chen Alpha Shrestha Nayer Sikder Nirali Thakkar Kuo Yang PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on June 17, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of June 17, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Huang’s motion, Commissioner Thakkar’s second on a 8-0 vote. Commissioners Shrestha and Yang were off the dais. Commissioners Xiyi Chen, Easley, Li, Nguyễn, and Sha were absent. 1 Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Minutes July 15, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding Austin Police Department’s vision for the Asian American community in Austin with a data report about instances of hate crimes for Asian American community members. Briefing by Lisa Davis, Chief of Police, Austin Police Department. Briefing provided by Lisa Davis, Chief of Police, Austin Police Department. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 3. Updates from the Budget Community Engagement Working Group regarding the invite template of the upcoming Budget and Boba event. Update provided by Vice Chair Jambulapati. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. 5. Approve the 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review Report The motion to approve the 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review Report with amendments to strike 2023 and insert 2024, and strike Alpha Shrestha as primary Joint Inclusion Committee Representative and insert Nirali Thakkar as primary Joint Inclusion Committee Representative was approved on Commissioner Huang’s motion, Commissioner Dolling’s second on an 10-0 vote. Commissioners Xiyi Chen, Easley, Li, Nguyễn, and Sha were absent. Approve updates to the membership of current Working Groups including the AARC Working Group, Certifications and Awards Working Group, Food Security Working Group, City Manager’s Office Meeting Working Group, Budget Engagement Working Group, GraduAsian Graduation Event Working Group, and the Public Health and Safety Working Group. The motion to approve updates to the memberships of the AARC, City Manager’s Office …
Introduction & Overview: Austin Equity and Inclusion Asian American Quality of Life Commission Briefing Tuesday, August 19, 2025, 6:00 PM Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer Agenda Introductions • Who We Are Office Overview • Vision & Mission • Current Structure • Core Services Current Projects Connecting with Our Office 8/15/2025 2 OUR VISION Austin Equity and Inclusion helps shape a community and city government where every individual feels welcomed and has the resources and services they need to thrive. We’re dedicated to transforming systems to increase access, remove barriers to opportunity, address discrimination, and foster a community where all identities are respected. 8/15/2025 3 Austin Equity and Inclusion (AEI) AEI Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director Civil Rights Division Equity Division Human Rights Division Enrique Serrano, Civil Rights Officer Vacant, Equity Officer Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer 8/15/2025 4 Introductions Shafina Khaki Human Rights Officer Dr. Lindsey Wilson Director Enrique Serrano Civil Rights Officer 5 CORE SERVICES Promote Human Rights: Provide advocacy and direct services that help residents access benefits, understand their rights, and connect to resources that uphold safety, dignity, and well-being. Carry Out the City’s Strategic Goals: Increase access, remove barriers to opportunities, and create inclusive spaces where all identities feel respected, seen, and valued. Provide Anti-Discrimination Protections: Investigate discrimination complaints related to Housing, Employment, Public Accommodations, and Fair Chance Hiring. City Ordinance Enforcement: Uphold the CROWN Act, Tenant’s Rights to Organize and other Key City Ordinances. Equity: Work to reduce racial and socioeconomic disparities by collaborating with all City departments to help identify and remove barriers in services. Community Engagement and Outreach: Build collaborative community relationships to advance Equity and improve the quality of life for Austinites. 8/15/2025 The items listed above represent key examples, though the list is not exhaustive. 6 Current Projects EQUITY CIVIL RIGHTS HUMAN RIGHTS • Quality of Life Studies • Mini-Grants • Equity Action Team & Equity Network Meetings • Normalize, Organize and Operationalize... 8/15/20 25 • Enforcing Civil Rights Laws Across • Know Your Rights/Benefits Multiple Sectors, leveraging technology to advance rights. • Collaborates with Community Members, Businesses, and Stakeholders: • Partnering with other agencies to promote civil rights initiatives (Immigrants, Veterans, ADA) • Advances the fundamental rights and freedoms of all Austinites • Anti-Hate/We All Belong • Community Meetings/Foster Belonging The items listed above represent key examples, though the list is not …
City of Austin 89th State Legislature: Post-Session Briefing Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Government Relations Office Agenda 01 Introduction 02 Special Session 03 89th Regular Session: Tech Bills 04 89th Regular Session: Other City Bills 1 89th Special Sessions: Basics • 89th First-Called Special Session Began July 21, 2025 • 89th Second-Called Special Session Began Aug 15, 2025 • Special Sessions cannot last more than 30 days. They can adjourn early. • Only topics within the Governor’s call may be considered. • However: • Governor can add additional items to the call at any time. • Legislators can still file any bill – it does not have to be on the call to be filed. • Governor can call for additional special sessions. 2 89th Second Special Session: Items on Call Camp Safety Flood Warning Systems Flood Emergency Communications Relief Funding for Hill Country Floods Natural Disaster Preparation & Recovery Eliminate STAAR Test Cut Property Taxes & Expenditure Caps Protect Children From THC Regulate Hemp- Derived Products Protect Unborn Children Ban Taxpayer- Funded Lobbying Protect Human Trafficking Victims Police Personnel Records Protect Women’s Spaces Attorney General Election Powers Redistricting Title Theft & Deed Fraud Water Project Incentives State Judicial Department 3 89th Regular Session Overview 4 89th Regular Session: Overarching Issues • Many recurring issues: pre-emption on elections, guns, historical markers and inclusion programming • Land use and Housing • Efforts to reduce city funding and limit use of debt • Firefighters pension and collective bargaining • Water future • Homelessness Successfully stopping or amending negative legislation is just as – if not more – impactful to the City as passing positive legislation. 5 89th Session: By the Numbers Stat Bills and Joint Resolutions Filed 9,014 (88th Session: 8,345) Bills & Joint Resolutions Sent to Governor 1,231 (88th Session: 1,259) Tracked by IGRO / Assigned to Departments 1,499 (88th Session: 978) % of Bills Sent to Governor Bills Vetoed by the Governor 14% of Filed Bills & JRS Sent to Governor* 26 (88th Session: 76) *Veto Period Ended June 22 6 89th Regular Session Key Legislation of Interest to AAQoLAC 7 89th Regular Session: Bills of Interest Passed Did Not Pass SB 17 (Kolkhorst / Hefner) Foreign ownership of Texas real property HB 128 (Orr / Kolkhorst) Sister City Agreements HB 41 (Hefner) Ban on Drones from Foreign Adversaries SB 1065 (Hall / Phelan) Guns in public places …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION July 15, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. City of Austin, Permitting & Development Center, Room 1406 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission may be participating by videoconference. 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 Ryan Sperling at (512) 974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Seonhye “Sonny” Sin, Chair Sarah Chen Zachary Dolling Hanna Huang Ahmed Moledina Sabrina Sha Nayer Sikder Kuo Yang Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Sarah Xiyi Chen Hailey Easley Hugh Li Pierre Nguyễn Alpha Shrestha Nirali Thakkar AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on June 17, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding Austin Police Department’s vision for the Asian American community in Austin with a data report about instances of hate crimes for Asian American community members. Briefing by Lisa Davis, Chief of Police, Austin Police Department. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 3. Updates from the Budget Community Engagement Working Group regarding the invite template of the upcoming Budget and Boba event. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve the 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review Report. 5. Approve updates to the membership of current Working Groups including the AARC Certifications and Awards Working Group, Food Security Working Group, City Manager’s Office Meeting Working Group, Budget Engagement Working Group, GraduAsian Graduation Event Working Group, and the Public Health and Safety Working Group. 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 Ryan Sperling, Office or …
Annual Internal Review This report covers the time period of 7/1/2024 to 6/30/2025 Asian American Quality-of-Life (AAQoL) Advisory Commission (Official Name of Board or Commission) The Board/Commission mission statement (per the City Code) is: The Commission shall advise the City Council on issues related to the Asian American Resource Center and will provide ongoing guidance and support for the City's Asian American quality of life initiatives. 2023-2024 Accomplishments Long Term Accomplishments Continue to work with City staff on the Asian American Resource Center Developed and submitted budget recommendations to advance equity in ● (AARC) new performing arts center facility and bridge projects ● city services and other department activities ● transition of commissioner terms and vacancies ● resolutions on issues pertaining to diversity and inclusion Participate in the Joint Inclusion Commission in recommendations and Worked with the Commission Staff Liaison to navigate a significant Commission Actions Summary ● Recommendation - Recommendation 20250318-004: Recommendation on the FY 2025-26 Budget for Asian American Resource Center (AARC) Customer and Front Desk Support Recommendation - Recommendation 20250318-005: Recommendation Recommendation - Recommendation 20250318-008: Recommendation Recommendation - Recommendation 20250318-007: Recommendation Recommendation - Recommendation 20250318-006: Recommendation ● on the FY 2025-26 Budget for Asian American Resource Center (AARC) Senior Program Language Access ● on the FY 2025-26 Budget AARC Additional Staffing for Performance Pavillion ● on the FY 2025-26 Budget Marketing & Community Engagement Staff for Cultural Centers ● on the FY 2025-26 Budget related to Austin Public Health Immigrant Legal Services ● Recommendation - Recommendation 20250318-009: Recommendation on the FY 2025-26 Budget related to APH Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Mental Health ● Community Health Navigators ● on the FY 2025-26 Budget for Expanding Equity & Inclusion Trainings ● on the FY 2025-26 Budget Culturally Appropriate and Medically Necessary Foods during Emergency Operations ● on the FY 2025-26 Budget Parks and Recreation Expansion of Senior Programming Language Access ● American Quality of Life Study Recommendation - Recommendation 20250318-010: Asian American Recommendation - Recommendation 20250318-015: Updated Asian Recommendation - Recommendation 20250318-014: Recommendation Recommendation - Recommendation 20250318-012: Recommendation Recommendation - Recommendation 20250318-013: Recommendation Briefings/Presentations to the Commission Our commission received key briefings from City staff, local organizations, or other governmental bodies that provided us insight into how programs and projects within the City and how they relate to Asian American Quality of Life. ● ○ June 18, 2024 – Food & Anti-Hate Initiatives Food Plan Presentation Amanda …
Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Minutes June 17, 2025 Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Regular Meeting Minutes Tuesday, June 17, 2025 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at the City of Austin, Permitting and Development Center, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Sin called the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:09 p.m. COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE: Seonhye “Sonny” Sin, Chair Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Alpha Shrestha Nirali Thakkar COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY: Sarah Chen Sarah Xiyi Chen Hailey Easley Hanna Huang Ahmed Moledina Nayer Sikder Kuo Yang PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on May 20, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of May 20, 2025, were approved with an amendment to remove Commissioner Thakkar from the Budget Engagement Working Group on Commissioner Huang’s motion, Commissioner Chen’s second on a 11-0 vote. Commissioners Dolling, Li, Nguyễn, and Sha were absent. 1 Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Minutes June 17, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the work of the Austin History Center preserving Austin’s Asian American History. Briefing by Marina Islas, Community Archives Program & Exhibits Manager, and Akiko Kodama, Archivist II, Austin Public Library. Presentation was made by Marina Islas, Community Archives Program & Exhibits Manager, and Akiko Kodama, Archivist II, Austin Public Library. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. Discussion regarding progress on the Asian American Quality of Life Study. Presentation by Cheng Chow and Dr. Shetal Vohra-Gupta, University of Texas. Discussion was held. Presentation was given by Cheng Chow and Dr. Shetal Vohra- Gupta, University of Texas. Discussion of the commission’s goals and objectives for the calendar year, actions supporting their mission, and compliance with bylaws, with regards to the 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review. Discussion was held. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Final review and action to approve the 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review Discussion and possible action to update the membership of current working groups and create new working groups based on upcoming priorities Presentation from the City Demographer to present updates Briefing from Chief Davis about APD relations with Asian American constituents Discussion on 2025 Legislative policies that affect Asian American Austinites Discussion and possible recommendation to improve Board and Commissions training practices for incoming commissioners. ADJOURNMENT Chair …
Working Group Name Asian American Resource Center Commission Certificates and Awards Working Group Budget Engagement City Manager's Office Meeting GraduAsian Graduation Event Food Security Working Group Public Health and Safety Workgroup Community Engagement [Board/Commission Name] Active Working Groups Working Group Goal Regarding Phase II Expansion Plan and Pacific American Heritage Month programs Develop a framework for commission certificates for members of the public. Engage with the FY 2025-26 budget process and inform the community of the City's responses to City budget recommendations Plan meetings between Austin's Asian American and Pacific Islander community leaders and the City Members Creation Date Last Update Notes Unclear Commissioners: Sarah Xiyi Chen, Sonny Sin, Alpha Shrestha ? 5/20/2025 2/18/2025 Commissioners: Sarah X Chen, Hailey Easley, Niralli Thakkar, Zachary Dolling 3/18/2025 N/A Commissioners: Nguyen, Easley, Sarah Chen 7/16/2024 4/15/2025 Commissioners: Huang, Nguyen, Sha Commissioners: Jambulapati, Sha, Sin Sarah X Commissioners Lily Trieu, Kuo Yang, Pierre Nguyen, Padmini Jambulapati, and Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan 3/19/2024 3/19/2024 4/16/2024 2/18/2025 6/20/2023 1/16/2024 It is done as the graduation season is over. 1
Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Minutes July 15, 2025 Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Regular Meeting Minutes Tuesday, July 15, 2025 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at the City of Austin, Permitting and Development Center, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Sin called the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE: Seonhye “Sonny” Sin, Chair Zachary Dolling Hanna Huang Ahmed Moledina COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY: Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Sarah Chen Alpha Shrestha Nayer Sikder Nirali Thakkar Kuo Yang PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on June 17, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of June 17, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Huang’s motion, Commissioner Thakkar’s second on a 8-0 vote. Commissioners Shrestha and Yang were off the dais. Commissioners Xiyi Chen, Easley, Li, Nguyễn, and Sha were absent. 1 Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Minutes July 15, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding Austin Police Department’s vision for the Asian American community in Austin with a data report about instances of hate crimes for Asian American community members. Briefing by Lisa Davis, Chief of Police, Austin Police Department. Briefing provided by Lisa Davis, Chief of Police, Austin Police Department. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 3. Updates from the Budget Community Engagement Working Group regarding the invite template of the upcoming Budget and Boba event. Update provided by Vice Chair Jambulapati. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. 5. Approve the 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review Report The motion to approve the 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review Report with amendments to strike 2023 and insert 2024, and strike Alpha Shrestha as primary Joint Inclusion Committee Representative and insert Nirali Thakkar as primary Joint Inclusion Committee Representative was approved on Commissioner Huang’s motion, Commissioner Dolling’s second on an 10-0 vote. Commissioners Xiyi Chen, Easley, Li, Nguyễn, and Sha were absent. Approve updates to the membership of current Working Groups including the AARC Working Group, Certifications and Awards Working Group, Food Security Working Group, City Manager’s Office Meeting Working Group, Budget Engagement Working Group, GraduAsian Graduation Event Working Group, and the Public Health and Safety Working Group. The motion to approve updates to the memberships of the AARC, City Manager’s Office …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION June 17, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. City of Austin, Permitting & Development Center, Room 1406 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission may be participating by videoconference. 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 Ryan Sperling at (512) 974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Seonhye “Sonny” Sin, Chair Sarah Chen Zachary Dolling Hanna Huang Ahmed Moledina Sabrina Sha Nayer Sikder Kuo Yang Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Sarah Xiyi Chen Hailey Easley Hugh Li Pierre Nguyễn Alpha Shrestha Nirali Thakkar AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on May 20, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the work of the Austin History Center preserving Austin’s Asian American History. Briefing by Marina Islas, Community Archives Program & Exhibits Manager, and Akiko Kodama, Archivist II, Austin Public Library. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion regarding progress on the Asian American Quality of Life Study. Presentation by Cheng Chow and Dr. Shetal Vohra-Gupta, University of Texas. 4. Discussion of the commission’s goals and objectives for the calendar year, actions supporting their mission, and compliance with bylaws, with regards to the 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review. 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 Ryan Sperling, Office or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. the City Clerk 974-3568 (512) of at For more information on the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission, please …
Marina Islas | Community Archives Program & Exhibits Manager Akiko Kodama | Community Archivist W H O A R E W E ? M A R I N A I S L A S C O M M U N I T Y A R C H I V E S P R O G R A M & E X H I B I T S M A N A G E R • Pontiac, MI & McAllen, TX • Hiking with dogs • 1989 Video of family trip to CA 2 6 / 1 0 / 2 0 2 5 W H O A R E W E ? A K I K O K O D A M A ( S H E / H E R ) C O M M U N I T Y A R C H I V I S T • From Japan • Knitting & Crocheting • Family Trip Pictures 3 6 / 1 0 / 2 0 2 5 “ T O P R O C U R E , P R E S E R V E , P R E S E N T A N D P R O V I D E T H E H I S T O R I C A L R E C O R D S T H A T M A K E U P A U S T I N ' S U N I Q U E H I S T O R Y Austin History Center Mission ” 6 / 1 0 / 2 0 2 5 800 Guadalupe Street Austin, TX 78701 W H A T D O W E S A V E ? W H Y D O E S I T M A T T E R ? • Austin Files • Archives & Manuscripts • Periodicals • Photographs 6 / 1 0 / 2 0 2 5 • Audio / Visual • Oral History Collection • Rare Books / City Reports • Maps C O M M U N I T Y A R C H I V E S P R O G R A M Family Archiving Workshops Acquiring & Processing Collections Consultations Exhibits Presentations & Workshops Tabling at Events 6 / 1 0 / 2 0 2 5 We need you! New space: John Henry Faulk Building …
Asian American Quality of Life 2025 Shetal Vohra-Gupta, Ph.D., MSW, Assistant Professor Cheng Chow, MPhil, PhD Student Steve Hicks School of Social Work The University of Texas at Austin Asian American Quality of Life 2015 Proposed project – A pilot study • A1: Identify primary health concerns and barriers to healthcare access among Asian population. • A2: Refine the Asian American Quality of Life (AAQoL) Survey to better capture health, social, and cultural dynamics. • A3: Pilot the updated AAQoL acorss Asian subgroups in Austin to reflect health needs and inform future policy and resource allocation. Stage 1 Qualitative: Interviews with key informants and community members Stage II Quantitative: An updated AAQoL survey among community members Large- scale studies Interventions Policy advocacy Asian American Quality of Life 2025 City of Austin AAQoL Commission Survey Development UT Austin Research Team Key Informant Interviews Validated Questions from UT Research Team • • Content based on prior studies, pilot results, and validated instruments Examples of domains: acculturation, healthcare access, chronic conditions, discrimination IRB-reviewed and methodologically sound • Validated Questions from UT Research Team Emerging Themes from KIIs • • • Purpose: Address local gaps and community-relevant issues Summary of informants: Health professionals, service providers, community leaders Examples of emerging themes: – Language barriers in telehealth – Culturally competent care – Immigration-related stress Emerging Themes from KIIs – Sample AAQoL Advisory Commission Review • Role: Ensure alignment with Commission priorities • • Value: Ensures relevance, cultural appropriateness, and civic accountability Engagement: Presentation, feedback, iterative revisions Asian American Quality of Life 2025 AAQoL priorities City of Austin AAQoL Commission Survey Development Academic validation UT Austin Research Team Key Informant Interviews Community experts Research Funding • David’s Center for Health Promotion & Disease Prevention Research in Underserved Populations (St. David’s CHPR), School of Nursing, The University of Texas at Austin ($25,000) • Health Communication Scholars Program, Moody College of Communication, The University of Texas at Austin ($25,00) • Funding Recommendations submitted by the AAQoL Advisory Commission Research Team Next Steps • Finalize instruments and translations • Continue KIIs with Commission recommendations • Key contact person with the Commission • Community rollout • Timeline to fielding and reporting Thank You! Shetal Vohra-Gupta: sgupta@austin.utexas.edu Cheng Chow: chengchow@utexas.edu Steve Hicks School of Social Work The University of Texas at Austin
Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes May 20, 2025 Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Regular Meeting Minutes Tuesday, May 20, 2025 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the City of Austin, Permitting and Development Center, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Sin called the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:08 p.m. COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE: Seonhye “Sonny” Sin, Chair Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Zachary Dolling Hailey Easley Ahmed Moledina Pierre Nguyễn Alpha Shrestha Nirali Thakkar COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY: Sarah Chen Sarah Xiyi Chen Nayer Sikder PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on April 15, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of April 15, 2025, were approved with an amendment to correct spelling on Chair Sin’s title and Commissioners Sikder’s name on Commissioner Nguyễn’s motion, Commissioner Shrestha’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioners Huang, Li, Sha, and Yang were absent. 1 Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes May 20, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Briefing regarding the strategic plan for the new Office of Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment. Briefing by Angela Means; Director; Office of Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment. The presentation was made by Angela Means; Director; Office of Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. Discussion regarding the progress and impact of the 2025 Texas Legislative Session bills affecting Joint Inclusion Committee member commissions. Discussion was held. Discussion regarding updates and invitation lists for the July meeting between local Asian American leaders and the City Manager’s Office. Discussion was held. Discussion regarding how the commission can advocate for and track progress on approved recommendations. Discussion was held. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. Discussion and possible action to update the membership of the Budget Engagement, Asian American Resource Center, and City Manager’s Office Meeting working groups. The motion to approve updating the membership of the Asian American Resource Center members to add Commissioners Shrestha and Thakkar and remove Commissioner Easley was approved on Vice Chair Jambulapati’s motion, Commissioner Nguyễn’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Xiyi Chen was off the dais. Commissioners Huang, Li, Sha, and Yang were absent. Discussion and possible action to form a working group to develop a …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION May 20, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. City of Austin, Permitting & Development Center, Room 1406 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission may be participating by videoconference. 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 Ryan Sperling at (512) 974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Hanna Huang, Chair Sarah Chen Zachary Dolling Hugh Li Pierre Nguyễn Alpha Shrestha Seonhye “Sonny” Sin Kuo Yang CALL TO ORDER Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Sarah Xiyi Chen Hailey Easley Ahmed Moledina Sabrina Sha Nayer Siker Nirali Thakkar AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on April 15, 2025. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Briefing regarding the strategic plan for the new Office of Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment. Briefing by Angela Means; Director; Office of Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion regarding the progress and impact of 2025 Texas Legislative Session bills affecting Joint Inclusion Committee member commissions. 4. Discussion regarding updates and invitation lists for the July meeting between local Asian American leaders and the City Manager’s Office. 5. Discussion regarding how the commission can advocate for and track progress on approved recommendations. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Discussion and possible action to update the membership of the Budget Engagement, Asian American Resource Center, and City Manager’s Office Meeting working groups. 7. Discussion and possible action to form a working group to develop a framework for commission certificates or awards for members of the public. 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 …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES April 15, 2025 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on April 15, 2025, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Huang called the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hanna Huang (Chair) Padmini Jambulapati (Vice Chair) Zachary Dolling Pierre Nguyễn Seonhye “Sonny” Sin Sarah Xiyi Chen Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Sarah Chen Hailey Easley Alpha Shrestha Nayer Sikder Nirali Thakkar PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on March 18, 2025. The minutes of the March 18, 2025 regular meeting were approved with an amendment to correct spelling on Commissioners Sikder’s and Sin’s names on Commissioner Sin’ motion, Commissioner Xiyi Chen’s second on a 11-0 vote. Commissioners Li, Moledina, Sha, and Yang were absent. STAFF BRIEFING 1 2. Briefing from the Transportation Department about the Cameron Road/Dessau Road Safety Project’s potential construction impacts. Briefing by Mary Vo, Program Manager II, Transportation and Public Works Department. Briefing provided by Mary Vo, Program Manager II, Transportation and Public Works Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation regarding Central Health’s engagement of Austin’s Asian American Community and health outcomes. Presentation by Dr. Patrick Lee, CEO, Central Health. Presentation by Dr. Patrick Lee, CEO, Central Health. 4. Discussion regarding budget recommendations approved by the Joint Inclusion Committee. Discussion was held. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Conduct officer elections for Chair and Vice Chair. Commissioner Sin was elected as Chair on Chair Huang’s motion, Commissioner Nguyen’s second on a 11-0 vote. Commissioners Li, Moledina, Sha, and Yang were absent. Vice Chair Jambulapati was elected as Vice Chair on Commissioner Sin’s motion, Commissioner X Chen’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioners Li, Moledina, Sha, and Yang were absent. 6. Nominate a commissioner to serve as the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission’s primary representative on the Joint Inclusion Committee. Commissioner Thakkar was nominated as the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission’s primary representative on the Joint Inclusion Committee on Commissioner Nguyễn’s motion, Commissioner Thakkar’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioners Li, Moledina, Sha, and Yang were absent. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 7. Update from the Working Group to plan for meetings between Austin’s Asian American and Pacific Islander community leaders and the City …
