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
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 …
Office of Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission May 20, 2025 Angela Means, Director Effective February 24, 2025, the City of Austin officially established the Office of Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment (ACME). This marks a significant step in Austin’s commitment to building a more vibrant and dynamic destination for arts, culture, music, and entertainment. 2 HOW WILL ACME BENEFIT OUR COMMUNITY? • Provide centralized support for creatives and cultural organizations. • Enhance economic growth, tourism and civic engagement. • Foster collaboration between artists, cultural organizations, and local businesses. • Create open, accessible spaces for residents to experience arts and culture. • Strengthens Austin’s identity as a global destination for creativity. 3 HOW WAS ACME FORMED? Economic Development Department Cultural Arts Arts in Public Places Music & Entertainment Parks & Recreation Department Museum & Cultural Programs Historic Tourism Special Events (Partial) Development Services Department Austin Center for Events Entertainment Services Austin Public Library Aviation African American Heritage & Cultural Facility Music & Art 4 Office of Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment (ACME) Functional Organizational Chart 5 WHAT ARE ACME’S 2025 GOALS? • Streamline operations • Implement community engagement programs • Launch the development of a comprehensive Strategic Plan • Reevaluation of Cultural Funding grant program guidelines, process, etc. • Increase access to programming • Establish new collaborative partnerships with the community and partners across various sectors 6 6 WHAT IS INCLUDED IN ACME’s STRATEGIC PLAN? Community Engagement & Participation Creative Economy Growth Access & Enjoyment for All Sense of Place & Shared Storytelling Sustainable Infrastructure & Investment 7 HOW WILL ACME EXPLORE AND LEVERAGE FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES? Grants and Sponsorships Private Sector Tap into local, state, and federal funding to support arts initiatives Seek partnerships with businesses and organizations to secure sponsorships for programs and events Engage with the private sector for donations, corporate sponsorships, and philanthropic contributions Crowdfunding & Fundraising Use crowdfunding platforms to finance specific cultural projects Organize fundraising events to raise awareness and funds for future programs 8 WHAT IS THE TIMELINE TO FULLY INTEGRATE ACME? Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3 • Planning & Development • Growth & Expansion • Launch Programs • Establish Community Presence 9 ACME is committed to Building a Collaborative, Vibrant City. 10 10 Office of Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment ACME@austintexas.gov 512-974-1624 Amplifying Austin’s Creative Spirit 11
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 1 Commissioner Nguyễn’s motion, Commissioner Shrestha’s second on a 11-0 vote. Commissioners Huang, Li, Sha, and Yang were absent. 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. 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. The date of the meeting has been set for June 17th, 2025, instead of July. 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, and to remove Commissioner Thakkar from the Budget Engagement Working Group was approved on Vice Chair Padmini’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 …
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 1 Commissioner Nguyễn’s motion, Commissioner Shrestha’s second on a 11-0 vote. Commissioners Huang, Li, Sha, and Yang were absent. 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. 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. The date of the meeting has been set for June 17th, 2025, instead of July. 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, and to remove Commissioner Thakkar from the Budget Engagement Working Group was approved on Vice Chair Padmini’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 …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION April 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: 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 March 18, 2025. STAFF BRIEFING 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. 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. 4. Discussion regarding budget recommendations approved by the Joint Inclusion Committee. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Conduct officer elections for Chair and Vice Chair. 6. Nominate a commissioner to serve as the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission’s primary representative on the Joint Inclusion Committee. 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 Manager’s office regarding upcoming meetings. 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 …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES March 18, 2025 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on March 18, 2025, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Huang called the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hanna Huang, Chair Sarah Chen Sarah Xiyi Chen Zachary Dolling Hailey Easley Pierre Nguyễn Nayer Siker Seonye “Sonny” Sin Nirali Thakkar Kuo Yang Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Alpha Shrestha Commissioners Absent: Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Sabrina Sha PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on February 18, 2025. The minutes were approved on Commissioner Nguyễn’s motion, Commissioner Chen’s second, on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Shrestha and Yang were off the dais. Vice Chair Jambulapati and Commissioner Sha were absent. 1 DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion regarding who to include in the City Manager Office’s Asian American Leaders meeting in April. Discussion was held. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 3. Recommendations from the Budget Working Group regarding budget recommendations for the FY 2025-26 Fiscal Year. Recommendations presented by Chair Huang. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2025-26 Budget for Asian American Resource Center (AARC) Customer and Front Desk Support. The recommendation was approved on Commissioner Sin’s motion, Commissioner Nguyễn’s second on an 11-0 vote. Vice Chair Jambulapati and Commissioner Sha were absent. 5. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2025-26 Budget for AARC Senior Program Language Access. The recommendation was amended to strike “for 1-2 days of the week” and insert “32 to 40 hours a month” after “barriers” in the second paragraph, insert “for 32 to 40 hours of additional interpretation per month” in the fourth paragraph, and insert “Health & Environment: Accessibility to quality parks, trails, and recreational opportunities” in the seventh paragraph on Chair Huang’s motion, Commissioner Nguyễn’s second, on an 11-0 vote. Vice Chair Jambulapati and Commissioner Sha were absent. The recommendation was approved on Commissioner Nguyễn’s motion, Commissioner Chen’s second, on an 11-0 vote. Vice Chair Jambulapati and Commissioner Sha were absent. 6. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2025-26 Budget for AARC Additional Staffing for Performance Pavilion. The recommendation was approved on Commissioner Sin’s motion, Commissioner Xiyi Chen’s second, on an 11-0 vote. Vice Chair Jambulapati and Commissioner Sha were …
Asian American Quality of Life Committee Meeting Patrick T. Lee, M.D., President & CEO April 15, 2024 3 Mural at renovated Rosewood-Zaragosa Specialty Care Clinic. “One Trunk, Many Branches” Courtesy: Texas Highways Year in Review: A Snapshot 16 Specialty Care & Diagnostic Lines Expanded Care • • Opened Central Health Rosewood-Zaragosa; Central Health Del Valle • Central Health Bridge Program • Medical Respite • Mental Health Care & Addiction Medicine Services (CommUnityCare) Strengthened Partnerships • Medical Assistant apprenticeship with Austin Community College • Black Men’s Health Clinic, African American Youth Harvest Foundation, and Hungry Hill Foundation • • • Bridge Outreach (Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services, Austin Police Department) • HAAM, ECHO Travis County (Jail Health) Integral Care and Austin Police Department (Jail Diversion) Central Health System • Sendero Health Plans membership increased from more than 6,000 members in 2023 to more than 29,000 in 2025 while reducing administrative costs by 8%.
