Bridging Public Health Funding Rec. Draft — original pdf

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. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Austin Travis County Public Health Commission Recommendation Number: [YYYYMMDD-XXX] Bridging Public Health Funding: This recommendation seeks to address the public health inequities exacerbated by the construction of Interstate 35, which divided communities and reenforced segregation. With public health funding at risk across the country, we recommend that a portion of tax revenues generated from businesses and activities on Cap and Stitch elements be dedicated to Austin Public Health to address the direct and indirect health inequities caused by Interstate 35. WHEREAS the City of Austin 1928 Master Plan designated then East Avenue as the dividing racial line between East and West Austin. WHEREAS Interstate 35 later replaced East Avenue, serving as a reinforced physical barrier between East and West Austin. WHEREAS Interstate 35 traffic and congestion have exacerbated health disparities of those living in East Austin, leading to less access to quality care and healthy foods, increased rates of chronic diseases such as diabetes and infectious disease, poor maternal health outcomes, and increased socioeconomic inequities. WHEREAS Interstate 35 creates chronic stressors such as traffic noise, heat, and pollution, leading to poor mental health and stress of those living nearby. WHEREAS City Council has touted Cap and Stitch as a once in a generation opportunity to repair the physical divide created by Interstate 35 and assist in repairing over 100 years of segregation. WHEREAS City Council has welcomed the creation of new public spaces for civic participation and unlocking long-term economic and community benefits, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Austin Travis County Public Health Commission recommends that City Council: Reserve and dedicate a percentage of tax revenues generated from businesses and activities that take place on the Cap and Stitch elements of Interstate 35 to a public health fund to be used by Austin Public Health to intentionally address the various health inequities that Interstate 35 has directly and subsequently inflicted upon the residents of Austin, specifically in East Austin and other areas where East Austin residents have been pushed to. These dedicated funds generated from a once in a generation opportunity that aims to repair the harm created by the interstate are a concrete action that . City Council can take to ensure steps are made to truly address these health inequities while also providing a sustainable funding source for Austin Public Health. Date of Approval: Motioned By: Seconded By: Vote: (Add the number vote here, even if unanimous) Example: 8-0 For: (For this and the below sections, list commissioner names in alphabetical order, starting with officers. If none, put “None.”) Against: Abstain: Off the dais: Absent: Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or commissioner can sign)