REGULAR MEETING of the ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION November 19, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W 2ND ST, AUSTIN, TX 78701 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 Eric Anderson at (512) 974-2562 or eric.anderson@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Hanna Huang, Chair Sarah Chen Zachary Dolling Pierre Nguyễn Alpha Shrestha Seonhye “Sonny” Sin Kuo Yang CALL TO ORDER Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Sarah Xiyi Chen Hailey Easley Sabrina Sha Nayer Sikder Luan Tran 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 October 15, 2024. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. 5. Presentation regarding cultural arts funding from Sylnovia Holt-Rabb, Director, Economic Development Department. Presentation regarding a health assessment project focused on the Asian and Asian American community in Austin, with an emphasis on updating the current Quality of Life survey, from Dr. Shetal Vohra-Gupta and Cheng Chow of the University of Texas at Austin Steve Hicks School of Social Work. Discussion of past and upcoming Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) Community Input Sessions and Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission members attending. Presentation regarding the Central Texas Food Bank Food Access Community Needs Assessment (CNA) and a CNA focus group with Vietnamese community members experiencing food insecurity from Tracy Ayrhart, Vice President of Strategic Insights, Central Texas Food Bank. Approve the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission 2025 meeting location. Update from the food security working group regarding a review of the Austin-Travis County Food Plan and potential recommendations. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 7. 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 …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 15, 2024 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on October 15, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Jambulapati called the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:07 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Sarah Chen Sarah Xiyi Chen Zachary Dolling Hailey Easley Pierre Nguyễn Nayer Sikder Luan Tran Commissioners Absent: Hanna Huang, Chair Sabrina Sha Sonny Sin Kuo Yang PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on September 17, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of September 17, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Sarah Chen’s motion, Commissioner Nguyễn’s second on an 8-0 vote. Chair Huang, Commissioners Sha, Sin, and Yang were absent. None 1 STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding the Equity-Based Preservation Plan from Cara Bertron, Program Manager, Planning Department. The presentation was made by Cara Bertron, Program Manager, Planning Department. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a recommendation to Council to adopt the Equity-Based Preservation Plan. The motion to approve the recommendation to Council to adopt the Equity-Based Preservation Plan was approved on Commissioner Easley’s motion, Commissioner Sarah Chen’s second on an 8-0 vote. Chair Huang, Commissioners Sha, Sin, and Yang were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of the inclusion of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission's approved budget recommendations in the City of Austin FY2025 Budget. Discussed. Discussion of upcoming Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) Community Input Sessions and Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission members attending. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS CONTINUED 6. Approve the creation of a City of Austin FY2026 Budget working group. The motion to approve the creation of a City of Austin FY2026 Budget working group was approved on Commissioner Nguyễn’s motion, Commissioner Sarah Chen’s second on an 8-0 vote. Chair Huang, Commissioners Sha, Sin, and Yang were absent. Chair Huang, Vice Chair Jambulapati, Commissioner Dolling, and Commissioner Sarah Chen were added to the working group without objection. Approve the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission 2025 meeting schedule. The motion to approve the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission 2025 meeting schedule was approved on Commissioner Sarah Chen’s motion, Commissioner Nguyễn’s second on an 8-0 vote. Chair Huang, Commissioners …
Travis County Food Access Community Needs Assessment: Elevating Asian American Voices Dr. Tracy Ayrhart, Vice President of Strategic Insights November 19, 2024 AGENDA • About Central Texas Food Bank • Food Insecurity by the Numbers • Food Access Community Needs Assessments • Next Steps WHO WE ARE • We are the largest hunger-relief organization in Central Texas, and a member of Feeding Texas and Feeding America. • Founded in 1981, the Food Bank provides food and grocery products through a network of nearly 250 nonprofit community partners and direct-service programs, serving about 93,000 people every week • Headquartered in Austin, the Food Bank serves 21 counties in Central Texas, an area about twice the size of Massachusetts. THE FUTURE IS F.R.E.S.H. Our approach to ensure every Central Texan has equitable access to nutritious food. • Provide immediate access to nutritious food • Provide the resources necessary for all Central Texans to access food on their own F Food Access (Distribution and Systems) R Research E Economic Stability S Sustainability H Health (food is medicine) FOOD INSECURITY BY THE NUMBERS: TRAVIS COUNTY • 16.2% of the population is food insecure, or 208,411 individuals • 1 in 5 children are food insecure (55,908) • 1 in 8 older adults are food insecure (23,108) are older adults Racial/Ethnic Composition 65.0% 46.7% 47.7% 33.3% 34.3% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 0% 15.3% 11.7% 10% 6.8% 14.0% 12.2% 7.3% 5.8% Black or African American Hispanic or Latino White Other & 2 or More Races/Ethnicities PLACE-BASED DISPARITIES • Disproportionately high food insecurity along the I-35 corridor, in the Eastern Crescent, and in rural corners of the county • Despite representing only 44% of Travis County’s overall population, these high need areas make up: • 59% of Travis County’s food insecure population • 61% of Travis County’s Black/African American population • 59% of Travis County’s Hispanic/Latino population MISSING VOICES: ASIAN POPULATION • Small sample size in public datasets • Small percentage (2%) of neighbors accessing CTFB services • May face unique barriers, including those related to cultural or dietary needs ELEVATING COMMUNITY VOICES: COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENTS Bell County Launch Feb 2025 Waco July 2023-Feb 2024 Williamson County March – Sept 2024 Travis County Sept 2024 – April 2025 Del Valle May – Nov 2023 Bastrop County June 2024 – Jan 2025 Hays County Jan – July 2024 METHODOLOGY (TRAVIS COUNTY) Create Initial Community Profile Community Discussion …
Cultural Arts Funding Update Economic Development Department November 19, 2024 Agenda Cultural Funding Review Process History Overview (FY24 Funding Requests/Distribution) 1. FY25 Launch Calendar 2. Past and Planned Promotion/Marketing of Programs 3. 4. Highlights of Awardees from AAPI led organizations 5. Questions Noting: All Cultural Funding programs are funded via Hotel Occupancy Tax. There are other programs run in our department, and with Rally Austin (a Local Government Corporation) utilizing other funding sources. Examples: - Creative Space Assistance Fund (General Fund, EDD) - Iconic Venue Fund (Managed by Rally Austin) C I T Y O F A U S T I N Cultural Funding Review Process History Cultural Funding – Reminders 2017: Cultural Funding Program Responsiveness Working Group 2018: Funding cuts for the first time (11%) COA Equity Statement: Strategic Direction 2023 Problem: Address 50 years of inequitable funding distribution. C I T Y O F A U S T I N Cultural Funding Review Process — Community Led C I T Y O F A U S T I N Cultural Funding Review Process – MJR Partners Report https://www.austintexas.gov/department/cultural-funding C I T Y O F A U S T I N Cultural Funding Review Process – Pilot Programs Approved by Arts Commission June 29, 2022 Solution: Holistic Funding Ecosystem addressing past disparities in funding. Note: Current Guidelines for these Pilot programs do not prevent awardees from being eligible in the following year of funding opportunities. C I T Y O F A U S T I N Cultural Funding – Pilot Program Investment Outcomes Grantee Investment by Demographics FY2015 - 2021 C I T Y O F A U S T I N Cultural Funding – Pilot Program Investment Outcomes Grantee Investment by Demographics FY2015 - 2021 Grantee Investment by Demographics FY 2023 - 2024 C I T Y O F A U S T I N Cultural Funding – Pilot Program Investment Outcomes Note: 2015-2021 Investment was 18% Majority Diverse; 25% Equally Led; 57% Majority White/Prefer not to answer. C I T Y O F A U S T I N Cultural Funding Program Overview – FY 2024 Awards $17,475,000 Awarded (FY 25-26 Thrive, FY24 Elevate, FY24 Nexus) $3.3M Increase from previous cycle (FY23-FY24 Thrive, FY23 Elevate, FY23 Nexus) $63 Million In Total Requested Funds 366 Total Awards (FY 25-26 Thrive, FY24 Elevate, FY24 Nexus) 190 New to COA Cultural Funding Awardees 77% Majority Diverse Led 66% Women/Non-Binary …
Health Assessment on the Asian and Asian American Community in Austin Asian American Quality of Life 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 Chinese Americans: 24% (5.4 million) Indian Americans: 21% (4.6 million) Filipinos:19% (4.2 million) Roots in Vietnam (2.2 million), Korea (1.9 million) and Japan (1.5 million) each have a population of at least 1 million. Asian population is on the rise in Texas The number of Asian Americans in Texas increased by 91,921 people from 2022 to 2023, amounting to over 1.7 million people in total. The fastest growing numbers were in the Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos metro area, with 10.5% increase from 2022 to 2023 – First among U.S. metro areas. Source: U.S. Census Bureau Credit: Elijah Nicholson-Messmer Older age groups – the sharpest increase Social services? Healthcare access? Affordability? Chronic health conditions? Caregiver resources? Transportation? Social isolation? Support infrastructure? Source: U.S. Census Bureau Credit: Elijah Nicholson-Messmer Diversity of Asian population in Austin Ethnicity Total Asian Asian Indian Chinese Vietnamese Korean Filipino Pakistani Taiwanese Japanese Nepalese Two or more Asian groups Population 80,245 30,361 15,246 9,659 6,738 4,790 2,135 1,943 1,507 1,412 1,344 1,212 Share 100.0% 37.8% 19.0% 12.0% 8.4% 6.0% 2.7% 2.4% 1.9% 1.8% 1.7% Other Central Asian 1.5% Source: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2022 5-Year Estimates Asian American Health Assessment Health issues identified Obesity, Diabetes, Heart Disease, Cancer, Hepatitis B, Tuberculosis, Behavioral Health, Healthcare Access Barriers Recommendations suggested Improve OUTREACH to subpopulations Focus on PREVENTION Increase ACCESS to health care Provide CULTURALLY SENSITIVE health care Asian American Quality of Life Survey Asian American Quality of Life Survey Major findings (N=2,609) • A majority of the survey participants (90.8%) were foreign-born immigrants • More than 28% of the overall sample had at least one chronic disease • Tobacco use more prevalent among Korean and Vietnamese while Koreans and Filipinos were least likely to engage in physical exercise and a healthy diet. • More than 11% reported an experience of unmet health care needs during the past 12 months (particularly in Koreans [15.4%] and Vietnamese [17.1%]) -inconsistent with the findings from national data (2.8% among Asians) • 20% of the sample reported the need for transportation and interpretation (particularly high in Koreans [29.5%], Chinese [24.0%], and Vietnamese [22.4%]) • The prevalence of mental distress and serve mental illness was 44.2% …
REGULAR MEETING of the ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION October 15, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W 2ND ST, AUSTIN, TX 78701 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 Eric Anderson at (512) 974-2562 or eric.anderson@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Hanna Huang, Chair Sarah Chen Zachary Dolling Pierre Nguyễn Nayer Sikder Luan Tran CALL TO ORDER Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Sarah Xiyi Chen Hailey Easley Sabrina Sha Seonhye “Sonny” Sin Kuo Yang 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 September 17, 2024. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding the Equity-Based Preservation Plan from Cara Bertron, Program Manager, Planning Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. 6. 7. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 8. 9. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT Discussion of the inclusion of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission's approved budget recommendations in the City of Austin FY2025 Budget. Discussion of upcoming Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) Community Input Sessions and Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission members attending. Approve a recommendation to Council to adopt the Equity-Based Preservation Plan. Approve the creation of a City of Austin FY2026 Budget working group. Approve the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission 2025 meeting schedule. Update from the Community Health working group regarding potential goals and projects. Update from the Asian American Resource Center working group regarding the updated pavilion timeline. 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 …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION OCTOBER 15, 2024 Austin History Center (C05767, PICA 24201, PICA 29995); Chen Chen Wu; City of Austin Planning Process HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION Michelle Benavides Mary Jo Galindo*1 Jolene Kiolbassa 1 Debra Murphy 2 Misael Ramos* 1 JuanRaymon Rubio 2 Bob Ward 1 Noel Bridges 1 Jerry Garcia 1 Kevin Koch Robin Orlowski 2 Mary Reed* 1 Maria Solis* 1 Caroline Wright 1 Julia Brookins* Hanna Huang* 1 Kelechi Madubuko 1 Leslie Ornelas 1 Lori Renteria 1 Erin Waelder 1 Amalia Carmona 2 Linda Y. Jackson Brenda Malik Emily Payne Gilbert Rivera 1 Brita Wallace* 1 Ursula A. Carter Meghan King* Alyson McGee 1 Rocio Peña-Martinez* *Drafting Committee member 1 Phase 1 only 2 Phase 2 only Plan Vision Historic preservation in Austin actively engages communities in protecting and sharing important places and stories. Preservation uses the past to create a shared sense of belonging and to shape an equitable, inclusive, sustainable, and economically vital future for all. Image sources: Joe’s Bakery, anonymous, Amy Moreland/ Austin’s Atlas Images: Joe’s Bakery, home in Zilker neighborhood, detail from Music Listening Map by Amy Moreland Plan Goals 107 recommendations 1. Tell Austin’s full history 9. Proactively identify important places 2. Recognize cultural heritage 10. Follow good designation practices 3. Preserve archaeological resources 11. Support stewardship of community 4. Stabilize communities assets 5. Support environmental sustainability 12. Be strategic with review 6. Make preservation more accessible 13. Protect historic resources 7. Support people doing the work 14. Implement the plan collaboratively 8. Engage new partners What We Preserve Images, clockwise from top left: Juneteenth parade, unveiling of La Loteria mural, archaeological resources Image sources: The Austin Chronicle (two images), San Antonio Office of Historic Preservation Think broadly. • Recognize Austin’s rich and complex history through active listening, inclusive research, and interpretation • Better recognize and protect legacy businesses, murals, and archaeological resources • Use preservation tools to support displacement prevention and environmental sustainability Who Preserves Invite and support. • Engage new partners and audiences • Help community members access knowledge and resources • Support people doing the work: homeowners and tenants, crafts- people, commissioners, and staff Images, clockwise from top left: Protest at City Hall to preserve Edward Rendon Park (Chicano Park), door hanger in San Antonio, “Stories within Stories” project of the Austin Asian American Film Festival Image sources: Bertha Rendon Delgado, San Antonio Office of Historic …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES AUGUST 20, 2024 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on September 17, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Chair Huang called the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hanna Huang, Chair Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Pierre Nguyễn Kuo Yang Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Sarah Chen Hailey Easley Sabrina Sha Nayer Sikder Sonny Sin Luan Tran Commissioners Absent: Sarah Xiyi Chen Zachary Dolling PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Introduction of David Magana, Community Liaison, Austin Police Department. David Magana, Community Liaison, Austin Police Department, introduced himself. Shubhada Saxena – Public Safety 1 Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on August 20, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of August 20, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Sarah Chen’s motion, Commissioner Sin’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioners Sarah Xiyi Chen and Dolling were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS CONTINUED 2. Presentation by Lee Sherman, Watershed Protection Department, regarding the Asian American Resource Center stormwater improvements and pedestrian bridge. The presentation was made by Lee Sherman, Supervising Engineer, Watershed Protection Department. Presentation by Sari Albornoz, Watershed Protection Department, regarding the Rain to River strategic plan. The presentation was made by Sari Albornoz, Community Engagement Planner/Planner Senior, Watershed Protection Department. Discussion of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission 2025 meeting schedule and location. Discussed. Discussion of the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) Community Input Sessions. Discussed. Approve changes to the membership of the Asian American Resource Center working group. Commissioner Easley was added to the working group without objection. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 9. Update from the Community Health working group on potential goals/topics and a list of community stakeholders. Commissioners Tran and Nguyễn provided an update. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS CONTINUED 8. Approve themes for upcoming meetings between the City Manager’s Office and Austin’s Asian American and Pacific Islander community leaders. Discussed with no action. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 1. 3. 5. 6. 2 Chair Huang and Commissioner Sarah Chen requested a presentation from the Central Health CEO. ADJOURNMENT Chair Huang adjourned the meeting at 7:35 p.m. without objection. The minutes were approved at the XX meeting on XX’s motion, XX’s second on a X-X vote. 3
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY-OF-LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION (AAQoL) RECOMMENDATION 20241015-005 RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL TO ADOPT THE EQUITY-BASED PRESERVATION PLAN Seconded By: October 15, 2024 Recommendation to Council to Adopt the Equity-Based Preservation Plan Date: Subject: Motioned by: ---- RECOMMENDATION: The AAQoL Advisory Commission highly recommends that City Council Members adopt and direct the City Manager to implement the recently developed Equity-Based Preservation Plan. It has been 43 years since The City of Austin’s Historic Preservation Plan was last updated in 1981. A process for an Equity-Based Preservation Plan was initiated in 2021 with substantial time taken to include the broad diverse voices in a way that reflects marginalized communities of the past and the current scope of our communities' needs now. DESCRIPTION OF RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL: WHEREAS, the City of Austin is dedicated to fostering a community that embraces diversity, racial equity, and upholds the principles of equality and human rights; WHEREAS, the AAQoL Advisory Commission was created Ordinance No. 20141211-204 to advise the City Council on issues related to the Asian American Resource Center and to provide on-going guidance and support for the City's Asian American quality of life initiatives; WHEREAS, Austin’s existing plan to guide historic preservation policies, programs, and activities was adopted in 1981; and WHEREAS, both Austin and the historic preservation field have changed substantially in the past 43 years; and WHEREAS, the Historic Landmark Commission initiated the development of a new preservation plan for Austin in 2021; and WHEREAS, the resulting Equity-Based Preservation Plan (the preservation plan) was developed by a community working group with members from across Austin bringing diverse lived experiences as well as professional and community expertise; and WHEREAS, broad, inclusive outreach and engagement around the draft preservation plan reached more than 2,500 people throughout the city to review and comment on the plan’s goals and recommendations; and WHEREAS, the community working group and Historic Landmark Commission revised and finalized the preservation plan based on public feedback; and WHEREAS, the preservation plan aligns with and furthers the goals of the AAQoL Commission, particularly recommendations related to our on-going guidance and support for the City's Asian American quality of life initiatives; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the AAQoL Advisory Commission that we strongly recommend City Council adopts the Equity-Based Preservation Plan and supports its timely implementation with the City Manager. RATIONALE: This resolution reflects the unwavering commitment of the City of Austin and its …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION (AAQoL) RECOMMENDATION 20241015-005 RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL TO ADOPT THE EQUITY-BASED PRESERVATION PLAN Seconded By: Commissioner Sarah Chen October 15, 2024 Recommendation to Council to Adopt the Equity-Based Preservation Plan Date: Subject: Motioned by: Commissioner Hailey Easley RECOMMENDATION: The AAQoL Advisory Commission highly recommends that City Council Members adopt and direct the City Manager to implement the recently developed Equity-Based Preservation Plan. It has been 43 years since The City of Austin’s Historic Preservation Plan was last updated in 1981. A process for an Equity-Based Preservation Plan was initiated in 2021 with substantial time taken to include the broad diverse voices in a way that reflects marginalized communities of the past and the current scope of our communities' needs now. DESCRIPTION OF RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL: WHEREAS, the City of Austin is dedicated to fostering a community that embraces diversity, racial equity, and upholds the principles of equality and human rights; WHEREAS, the AAQoL Advisory Commission was created Ordinance No. 20141211-204 to advise the City Council on issues related to the Asian American Resource Center and to provide on-going guidance and support for the City's Asian American quality of life initiatives; WHEREAS, Austin’s existing plan to guide historic preservation policies, programs, and activities was adopted in 1981; and WHEREAS, both Austin and the historic preservation field have changed substantially in the past 43 years; and WHEREAS, the Historic Landmark Commission initiated the development of a new preservation plan for Austin in 2021; and WHEREAS, the resulting Equity-Based Preservation Plan (the preservation plan) was developed by a community working group with members from across Austin bringing diverse lived experiences as well as professional and community expertise; and WHEREAS, broad, inclusive outreach and engagement around the draft preservation plan reached more than 2,500 people throughout the city to review and comment on the plan’s goals and recommendations; and WHEREAS, the community working group and Historic Landmark Commission revised and finalized the preservation plan based on public feedback; and WHEREAS, the preservation plan aligns with and furthers the goals of the AAQoL Commission, particularly recommendations related to our on-going guidance and support for the City's Asian American quality of life initiatives; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the AAQoL Advisory Commission that we strongly recommend City Council adopts the Equity-Based Preservation Plan and supports its timely implementation with the City Manager. RATIONALE: This resolution reflects the unwavering commitment …
REGULAR MEETING of the ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION September 17, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W 2ND ST, AUSTIN, TX 78701 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 Eric Anderson at (512) 974-2562 or eric.anderson@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Hanna Huang, Chair Sarah Chen Satyajeet Dodia Hailey Easley Sabrina Sha Seonhye “Sonny” Sin Kuo Yang CALL TO ORDER Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Sarah Xiyi Chen Zachary Dolling Pierre Nguyễn Nayer Sikder Luan Tran 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 August 20, 2024. DISCUSSION ITEMS Presentation by Lee Sherman, Watershed Protection Department, regarding the Asian American Resource Center stormwater improvements and pedestrian bridge. Presentation by Sari Albornoz, Watershed Protection Department, regarding the Rain to River strategic plan. Introduction of David Magana, Community Liaison, Austin Police Department. Discussion of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Committee 2025 meeting schedule and location. Discussion of the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) Community Input Sessions. 6. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 9. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT Approve changes to the membership of the Asian American Resource Center working group. Approve themes for upcoming meetings between the City Manager’s Office and Austin’s Asian American and Pacific Islander community leaders. Update from the Community Health working group on potential goals/topics and a list of community stakeholders. 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 Eric Anderson, Office or eric.anderson@austintexas.gov …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES AUGUST 20, 2024 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on August 20, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Chair Huang called the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:08 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hanna Huang, Chair Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Pierre Nguyễn Nayer Sikder Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Sarah Chen Sarah Xiyi Chen Satyajeet Dodia Hailey Easley Sonny Sin Kuo Yang Commissioners Absent: Sabrina Sha Luan Tran PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on July 16, 2024. Pius Wong – VotingWorks Accessible Voting Machines 1 The minutes from the meeting of July 16, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Sarah Chen’s motion, Commissioner Nguyễn’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Yang was off the dais. Commissioners Sha and Tran were absent. Staff briefing regarding the City of Austin’s Undoing Racism training from Angelica Benton-Molina, Equity Program Manager, Equity Office and Alejandra Mireles, Community Services Program Coordinator, Equity Office. Withdrawn. STAFF BRIEFING 2. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation by Laura Esparza, Executive Director of A3 (Art Alliance Austin) regarding the introduction of a new local arts agency that will raise and distribute funds to artists and performers, such as the musicians performing for the "Tones" music series at the Asian American Resource Center. The presentation was made by Laura Esparza, Executive Director, A3 (Art Alliance Austin). DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve the nomination of a community stakeholder member to the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission. The motion to approve the nomination of Zachary Dolling as a community stakeholder member of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission was approved on Commissioner Sarah Chen’s motion, Commissioner Nguyễn’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioners Sha and Tran were absent. WORKING GROUP/COMITTEE UPDATES 5. Update from the working group to plan for meetings between Austin’s Asian American and Pacific Islander community leaders and the City Manager's office regarding potential meeting dates and topics. Chair Huang provided an update. Update from the Asian American Resource Center working group regarding capital improvement projects and staffing. Chair Huang provided an update. Update from the Budget working group regarding approved budget recommendations and the budget process. Chair Huang provided an update. Update from the Joint Inclusion …
Asian American Resource Center / Rutherford Campus Stormwater Improvements Project Update Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission September, 17 2024 • Lee Sherman, PE, Watershed Protection Department Presenters: Agenda: • Background • Project Update • Public Engagement Opportunities • Brief Q&A (please hold questions until the end) AARC Workgroup Meeting April 14, 2021 AARC Vision Plan + Stormwater Improvements • Partnership City of Austin (COA) project • Builds portions of the AARC Vision Plan • Add pedestrian bridge and other recreational amenities to conserve limited bond funds • Increases traffic and community use of historically under‐utilized park area • Opportunity for water quality and drainage improvement AARC Vision Plan • AARC Phase 2 Improvements • PARD • Schematic design kicking off in the next month • Close coordination • WPD • PARD • AARC Management • BSD • Urban Trails AARC / Rutherford Stormwater Improvements • Project Elements • Wetland with boardwalk • Channel improvements • Raingardens • Pedestrian bridges • Urban trail Benefits Water Quality • Cleaner water will flow to Little Walnut Creek • Improved habitat for wildlife, pollinators, etc. Flood • Flood control for AARC / Rutherford campuses AARC Vision Plan • Provides required flood and water quality • Improved aesthetics of concrete channel • Provides Vision Plan elements • Pond • Nature play areas / landscaping • Trails and habitat • Pedestrian bridge Challenges Coordination Across Departments • Parking at Rutherford • Urban Trail Addition • Took More Time • “Dig Once” Operation and Maintenance • Maintenance crew involvement • Designing for maintenance Approximate Schedule • Preliminary engineering completed in 2021 • Public Meeting August 25, 2021 • Currently at 90% Design • Next Step: Permitting and Bid through 2025 • Construction estimated in 2026 Public Engagement Opportunities • Second Public Meeting Scheduled for October 22, 2024 at the AARC • Changes since August 25, 2021 • Urban trail scope added • Second pedestrian bridge • Wider and greener channel improvements • Coordination with BSD on parking impacts • Modifications to main pedestrian bridge • Also: Rain to River! • Austinites valuing water quality • Stream health Updated Pedestrian Bridge Alignment (Preliminary) Rain Garden Design Rendering Questions Why? Mission: Protect lives, property and the environment of our community by reducing the impact of flooding, erosion and water pollution. CONCEPTUAL WATERSHED Reduce the damaging effects of urbanization on Austin’s watersheds WHAT IS URBANIZATION? • Paving of …
N I T S U A F O Y T I C A Strategic Plan to Protect Austin’s Creeks and Communities Sari Albornoz –Planner Senior/Community Engagement Planner W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T What is Rain to River? A Strategic Plan to Protect Austin's Creeks and Communities N I T S U A F O Y T I C Guiding Blueprint for department Evaluation framework Communication Tool W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T N I T S U A F O Y T I C What are our goals for the update? Reflect the vision and values of our community Incorporate equity, climate resilience, and population growth Be informative and accessible W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T N I T S U A F O Y T I C Focused Efforts to Reach: Historically under-served groups Impacted groups Organizations with relevant expertise We are striving for a representative sample of the Austin community! W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T N I T S U A F O Y T I C Broad Community Engagement • Launched RaintoRiverATX.com • Created a Community Vision Survey for people to share their experiences with natural spaces, waterways, and drainage infrastructure • Advertised the survey using yard signs at community gathering spaces and via social media and radio • Attended 60 + community events • Worked with consultant to conduct a statistically valid survey to validate Community Vision Survey results W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T N I T S U A F O Y T I C Focused Engagement • Worked with MEASURE, a local black-owned nonprofit, to conduct five compensated focus groups designed by and centered on historically-excluded communities • Conducted 11 …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES SEPTEMBER 17, 2024 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on September 17, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Chair Huang called the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hanna Huang, Chair Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Pierre Nguyễn Kuo Yang Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Sarah Chen Hailey Easley Sabrina Sha Nayer Sikder Sonny Sin Luan Tran Commissioners Absent: Sarah Xiyi Chen Zachary Dolling PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Introduction of David Magana, Community Liaison, Austin Police Department. David Magana, Community Liaison, Austin Police Department, introduced himself. Shubhada Saxena – Public Safety 1 Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on August 20, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of August 20, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Sarah Chen’s motion, Commissioner Sin’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioners Sarah Xiyi Chen and Dolling were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS CONTINUED 2. Presentation by Lee Sherman, Watershed Protection Department, regarding the Asian American Resource Center stormwater improvements and pedestrian bridge. The presentation was made by Lee Sherman, Supervising Engineer, Watershed Protection Department. Presentation by Sari Albornoz, Watershed Protection Department, regarding the Rain to River strategic plan. The presentation was made by Sari Albornoz, Community Engagement Planner/Planner Senior, Watershed Protection Department. Discussion of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission 2025 meeting schedule and location. Discussed. Discussion of the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) Community Input Sessions. Discussed. Approve changes to the membership of the Asian American Resource Center working group. Commissioner Easley was added to the working group without objection. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 9. Update from the Community Health working group on potential goals/topics and a list of community stakeholders. Commissioners Tran and Nguyễn provided an update. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS CONTINUED 8. Approve themes for upcoming meetings between the City Manager’s Office and Austin’s Asian American and Pacific Islander community leaders. Discussed with no action. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 1. 3. 5. 6. 2 Chair Huang and Commissioner Sarah Chen requested a presentation from the Central Health CEO. ADJOURNMENT Chair Huang adjourned the meeting at 7:35 p.m. without objection. The minutes were approved at the October 17, 2024, meeting on Commissioner Sarah Chen’s motion, Commissioner Nguyễn’s second on an …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES SEPTEMBER 17, 2024 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on September 17, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Chair Huang called the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hanna Huang, Chair Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Pierre Nguyễn Kuo Yang Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Sarah Chen Hailey Easley Sabrina Sha Nayer Sikder Sonny Sin Luan Tran Commissioners Absent: Sarah Xiyi Chen Zachary Dolling PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Introduction of David Magana, Community Liaison, Austin Police Department. David Magana, Community Liaison, Austin Police Department, introduced himself. Shubhada Saxena – Public Safety 1 Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on August 20, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of August 20, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Sarah Chen’s motion, Commissioner Sin’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioners Sarah Xiyi Chen and Dolling were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS CONTINUED 2. Presentation by Lee Sherman, Watershed Protection Department, regarding the Asian American Resource Center stormwater improvements and pedestrian bridge. The presentation was made by Lee Sherman, Supervising Engineer, Watershed Protection Department. Presentation by Sari Albornoz, Watershed Protection Department, regarding the Rain to River strategic plan. The presentation was made by Sari Albornoz, Community Engagement Planner/Planner Senior, Watershed Protection Department. Discussion of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission 2025 meeting schedule and location. Discussed. Discussion of the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) Community Input Sessions. Discussed. Approve changes to the membership of the Asian American Resource Center working group. Commissioner Easley was added to the working group without objection. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 9. Update from the Community Health working group on potential goals/topics and a list of community stakeholders. Commissioners Tran and Nguyễn provided an update. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS CONTINUED 8. Approve themes for upcoming meetings between the City Manager’s Office and Austin’s Asian American and Pacific Islander community leaders. Discussed with no action. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 1. 3. 5. 6. 2 Chair Huang and Commissioner Sarah Chen requested a presentation from the Central Health CEO. ADJOURNMENT Chair Huang adjourned the meeting at 7:35 p.m. without objection. The minutes were approved at the October 17, 2024, meeting on Commissioner Sarah Chen’s motion, Commissioner Nguyễn’s second on an …
REGULAR MEETING of the ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION August 20, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W 2ND ST, AUSTIN, TX 78701 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 Eric Anderson at (512) 974-2562 or eric.anderson@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Hanna Huang, Chair Sarah Chen Satyajeet Dodia Pierre Nguyen Nayer Sikder Luan Tran CALL TO ORDER Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Sarah Xiyi Chen Hailey Easley Sabrina Sha Seonhye “Sonny” Sin Kuo Yang 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 July 16, 2024. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding the City of Austin’s Undoing Racism training from Angelica Benton-Molina, Equity Program Manager, Equity Office and Alejandra Mireles, Community Services Program Coordinator, Equity Office. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation by Laura Esparza, Executive Director of A3 (Art Alliance Austin) regarding the introduction of a new local arts agency that will raise and distribute funds to artists and performers, such as the musicians performing for the "Tones" music series at the Asian American Resource Center. Approve the nomination of a community stakeholder member to the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. WORKING GROUP/COMITTEE UPDATES 5. Update from the working group to plan for meetings between Austin’s Asian American and Pacific Islander community leaders and the City Manager's office regarding potential meeting dates and topics. Update from the Asian American Resource Center working group regarding capital improvement projects and staffing. Update from the Budget working group regarding approved budget recommendations and the budget process. Update from the Joint Inclusion Committee regarding upcoming budget town hall meetings. 6. 7. 8. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES July 16, 2024 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on July 16, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Chair Huang called the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:08 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hanna Huang, Chair Hailey Easley Nayer Sikder Sonny Sin Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Sarah Chen Sarah Xiyi Chen Satyajeet Dodia Pierre Nguyen Sabrina Sha Luan Tran Commissioners Absent: Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan Kuo Yang PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES Luis Ordaz – Rollout of Cultural Arts Funding Hector Ordaz – Cultural Arts Funding 1 1. 6. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on June 18, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of June 18, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Nguyen’s motion, Commissioner Sarah Chen’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Sha and Sikder were off the dais. Commissioners Shakur Jamal-Hassan and Yang were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. Introduction of Genesis Gavino, Special Assistant to the City Manager. Genesis Gavino, Special Assistant to the City Manager, introduced herself. Discussion of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission 2023 Annual Report and Internal Review, including the Commission’s goals and objectives for the next year. Discussed. Discussion of the goals and objectives of the Joint Inclusion Committee. Discussed. 4. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve the creation of a working group on public health. A motion to approve the creation of a working group on public health was made by Commissioner Sin and seconded by Commissioner Sarah Chen. The Commission decided that the working group will focus on community health and language access. The Commission set a goal of having the working group provide recommendations to the full Commission in December. The motion to approve the creation of a working group on community health was approved on Commissioner Sin’s motion, Commissioner Sarah Chen’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioners Shakur Jamal-Hassan and Yang were absent. Commissioners Nguyen, Tran, and Easley were added to the working group without objection. Approve the creation of a working group to plan for meetings between Austin’s Asian American and Pacific Islander community leaders and the City Manager's office. The motion to approve the creation of a working group to plan for meetings between Austin’s Asian American …
