Item 5: 20260302_005_Development of the Immigration Affairs Office DRAFT — original pdf

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RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20260302-005 : Development of the Immigration Affairs Office WHEREAS, Ensuring immigrant inclusivity will build stronger educated communities that can contribute to economic growth, creative potential, and innovation throughout Austin and its society. WHEREAS, The City of Austin is committed to continuous improvement and inclusivity, and the development of an Immigrant Affairs Office would enhance the quality-of-life for all Austinites, ensuring that we remain equal to or superior to other cities that have already established similar offices. WHEREAS, The Commission on Immigrant Affairs has consistently recommended the development and/or expansion of an Immigrant Affairs Office over the years—Recommendation Number: 20190429- 5AI, Recommendation Number: 20200422-002A2, Recommendation Number: 20210301‐2b Recommendation Number: 20220307-2d—recognizing that one person is insufficiently supported in handling all the responsibilities and demands placed on them. WHEREAS, The following roles as essential to the Immigrant Affairs Office: • Immigrant Affairs Officer: leads strategy and sets direction for the Office, develops policies, and elevates immigrant affairs as a priority for the City. • Immigrant Affairs Program Manager: oversees programs and partnerships with City departments and community organizations focused on key areas like Civic Engagement, Naturalization / Citizenship, Economic Mobility, Employment Authorization Assistance, and Adult Education. • Community Engagement Coordinator (Immigrant Affairs): facilitates communication and collaboration between the City, immigrant leaders, and community organizations. Coordinates outreach efforts with immigrant communities and community partners and provides follow-up to connect people to social services. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends the development of an Immigrant Affairs Office with adequate staffing to serve as a centralized unit to coordinate services and support for our immigrant communities who are vulnerable to experiencing discrimination, marginalization, hate crimes, and/or persecution. BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED The Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends Austin Equity and inclusion fill the vacant Immigrant Affairs Manager position; develop an Immigrant Affairs Office to ensure that the needs of Austin's immigrant community are recognized, supported, and effectively addressed, which would allow for stronger community engagement, more responsive services, as well as better coordination across city departments to close existing gaps; and develop a comprehensive budget plan focused on expanding staff, services, and infrastructures will promote the immigrant community’s economic mobility, human services (health care/food/legal services), education, and civic participation. Seconded By: Date of Approval: Motioned By: Vote: For: Against: Abstain: Off the dais: Absent: Attest: _____________________________________________