BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20250312XXX: Family Stabilization Program as a Mechanism for Promoting Housing Stability WHEREAS, affordability continues to be one of the most common issues expressed by residents. The Family Stabilization Program offers more flexible access to housing support, accords more choice and dignity, reduces discrimination, and offers more efficient and cost-effective housing; and WHEREAS, at the Community Voices & Choices: Joint Inclusion Committee FY26 Budget Input Sessions, several residents expressed support again for the ongoing funding of this program; and WHEREAS, according to findings from the Urban Institute’s report titled Evaluation of the Austin Guaranteed Income Pilot, it can be very difficult for cities like Austin to meet their residents’ needs through subsidized house programs, as federal housing programs have limited reach and limited funding; and WHEREAS, even Austin residents that are lucky enough to receive federal housing assistance continue to struggle with housing issues, and about 40% of households nationally that receive a voucher never successfully lease a unit; and WHEREAS, in Austin, most voucher holders were only able to move to less desirable housing on the outskirts of the city, which may cause additional burdens like poor transportation options, limited access to healthy foods, limited access to medical care, and employment and caregiving challenges. WHEREAS, other forms of housing assistance provide specific housing units; however, this comes with its own problems. Residents have limited options, if any. Buildings are only required to keep their rents affordable for a certain period of time, and then they can increase rent, these units are set up to be affordable based on the area median income (AMI), and they do not provide the deep affordability that residents need; and WHEREAS, according to the report, Austin’s local affordable housing inventory lists six times the number of units with rents set to be affordable at 80 percent of AMI as units with rents set to be affordable at 30 percent of AMI, Additionally, these units offer set rental prices, and the person is still responsible for paying the full rent even if they experience job insecurity; and WHEREAS, according to findings from the Urban Institute’s report titled Evaluation of the Austin Guaranteed Income Pilot, participants reported spending, on average, more than 50% of their pilot cash to cover housing costs, and the average share participants spent on housing was more than twice as much spending in any other …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20250312XXX: Development of the Immigration Affairs Office WHEREAS, the City of Austin values inclusivity and recognizes the immense economic, social, and cultural contributions that people of all national origins and immigration statuses have made to this country1; and WHEREAS, the City Council declared Austin a Welcoming City through Resolution No. 20140320-049 to demonstrate that the City strives to include and support immigrants in all aspects of our city; and WHEREAS, we continue to hear appreciation for the creation of the Immigrant Affairs position, along with recognition that the scope of work required is too vast for one person to manage alone; and WHEREAS, the development of an Immigrant Affairs Office would 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 WHEREAS, 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; and WHEREAS, ensuring immigrant inclusivity will build stronger educated communities that can contribute to economic growth, creative potential, and innovation throughout Austin and its society; and WHEREAS, in Austin, more than 18% of the population are foreign-born2; and WHEREAS, Austin’s immigrant population comes from over 120 different countries3; and WHEREAS, according to City data at iSpeak Austin, more than 85 languages are spoken throughout the City, 31% of Austinites speak a language other than English at home and 11.4% of Austinites speak English “less than very well”4; and WHEREAS, According to “Advancing Immigrant Incorporation in Austin, TX,” a report on the state of immigrant affairs at the City states that Austin has made consistent improvements and has scored highly in areas such as Government Leadership, Community Collaboration, and Legal Support; the same report also 1 CITY OF AUSTIN 2025 Federal Legislative Agenda 119th Congress 2 https://www.census.gov 3 Austin Population Change and Demographic Trends 4 iSpeak Austin | AustinTexas.gov highlights areas where the City falls short in achieving a “Government That Works for All,” identifying key gaps in Civic Participation, Livability, and Job Opportunities5; and WHEREAS, research indicates that immigrant integration policies lead to favorable outcomes for both native and foreign-born residents of a city5; and WHEREAS, the report “Advancing Immigrant Incorporation in Austin, TX.” by the …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20250312XXX: Expand the Equity Mini Grant Funds to $600,000 in support of Immigrant Inclusion, Solidarity with Unhoused People, and for Anti-displacement Prevention Efforts WHEREAS, the City of Austin’s Equity Office provides leadership, guidance, and insight on equity to improve the quality of life for all Austinites by working across City departments and with major institutions, non-profits, and grassroots organizations to advance racial equity; and WHEREAS, the inaugural Equity Mini Grant Fund was established in 2018 in response to Ordinance 20170913-001, which directed the Equity Office, to develop a funding framework for quality-of-life initiatives by allocating $75,000 to the Equity Mini Grant Fund; and WHEREAS, the Equity Office successfully implemented a more approachable and accessible granting framework, awarding the first round of grants in April 2018, and has since expanded its grant programs, including the Reentry Services Grant, which supports organizations transforming outcomes for formerly incarcerated individuals through The Hub Award ($200,000 for 501(c)(3) non-profits providing wrap- around services) and The Spoke Award ($50,000 for direct service providers); and WHEREAS, additional funding opportunities, such as the Reimagining Public Safety Grants and potential future grants focused on immigrant and refugee support, underscore the City’s commitment to addressing systemic inequities through community-driven solutions; and WHEREAS, the Equity Mini Grant Fund has played a critical role in supporting grassroots and volunteer- led efforts addressing significant challenges, including COVID-19 recovery, public safety, homelessness response, and immigrant inclusion, demonstrating its value as a flexible and responsive funding mechanism; and WHEREAS, the FY25 Equity Mini Grant Fund prioritizes support for grassroots efforts organizing community-centered solutions in the areas of immigrant inclusion, solidarity with unhoused people, and anti-displacement/displacement prevention, recognizing these as urgent and critical equity issues in Austin; and WHEREAS, since the inception in 2018, the Equity Mini Grant Fund has supported 87 organizations with a total of $1,495,000 in funding, growing from an initial $75,000 in total grants to $450,000 in FY24-25; however despite this growth, the fund remains insufficient to fully address the scale and scope of community needs; increasing the fund to $600,000 would enable great investment in grassroots initiatives working to address systemic inequities; and WHEREAS, an expansion of the Equity Mini Grant Fund would provide additional unrestricted funding at various award levels ($10,000, $20,000, and $30,000), enabling a broader and deeper investment in community-driven initiatives that address disparities and uplift historically marginalized communities; THEREFORE, …
REGULAR MEETING of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS MARCH 3, 2025 AT 6:30PM W. 3rd Street AUSTIN CITY HALL ROOM 1101 AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs 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, contact Gunjen Mittal at gunjen.mittal@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-6104. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Melissa Ortega, Chair Kevin T. Countie Miriam Dorantes, Vice Chair Adrian De La Rosa Azeem Edwin Aditi Joshi Jeanne “Canan” Kaba Yohana Saucedo Shweta Padmanabha AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up 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 Commission on Immigrant Affairs regular meeting on January 6, 2025. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Briefing by Lieutenant Davis Christopher, Austin Police Department, regarding general updates on policies pertaining to the Immigrant Community. 3. Briefing by Houmma Garba, Language Access and Community Engagement Consultant from the Corporate Communications & Public Information Office regarding the new citywide language access plan. 4. Briefing by Rocio Villalobos, Equity and Inclusion Program Manager - Immigrant Affairs, regarding general updates on immigrant affairs. 5. Briefing by Alejandra Mireles and/or Jeremy Garza, Equity and Inclusion Program Coordinator from (Equity Division) Office of Equity and Inclusion, regarding timeline and steps for Quality of Life Study. PRESENTATION 6. Presentation by Rebecca Lightsey, Co-Executive Director of American Gateways regarding an update on their work, to highlight the effective use of the City's support as the recipient of a City of Austin grant to provide vital legal immigration services to low-income residents and advocate for continued funding for immigration legal services in next year's City budget. DISCUSSION ITEMS 7. Welcome new commissioners to Commission on Immigrant Affairs. 8. Discussion of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ Draft Budget Recommendations for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. 9. Discussion on updates on JIC recommendations. Group. Group. 10. Discussion on proposed dates for a Special Called meeting regarding FY26 budget recommendations. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 11. Discussion and action on approving …
(COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS) MEETING MINUTES (6, JANUARY, 2025) COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 6, JANUARY, 2025 The COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS convened in a REGULAR CALLED meeting on 6, JANUARY, 2025, PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO, AUSTIN, TEXAS. Chair MELISSA ORTEGA called the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS Meeting to order at 6:50 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Melissa Ortega, Chair Miriam Dorantes, Vice Chair Kevin T. Countie Aditi Joshi Jeanne “Canan” Kaba Luis Osta Lugo Shweta Padmanabha Adrian De La Rosa Yohana Saucedo Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Miriam Dorantes, Vice Chair Kevin T. Countie Aditi Joshi Jeanne “Canan” Kaba Luis Osta Lugo Shweta Padmanabha Yohana Saucedo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL List name of speaker(s) and brief description of topic. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS (REGULAR) MEETING on November 4, 2024. 1. 1 (COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS) MEETING MINUTES (6, JANUARY, 2025) The minutes from the meeting of (11/4/2024) were approved on Kevin Countie’s motion, Aditi Joshi second on a (9-0) vote. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding Certified Welcoming update, proposal for an Office of Immigrant Affairs, Know Your Rights presentations, and Immigrant Inclusion Mini Grant. The presentation was made by (Rocio Villalobos, Immigrant Affairs Manager at the Equity & Inclusion Office). PRESENTATION 3. Presentation regarding the Immigrant Hall of Honor initiative focusing on the contributions of immigrants after arriving to the U.S. The presentation by Sara Puig Laas, Board Director of the Immigrant Hall of Honor. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Welcome new Commission members to the Commission on Immigrant Affairs. The Chair welcomed new Commissioners to the Board. 5. Discussion and update of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs review at the December 11, 2024, Audit and Finance Committee meeting due to the failure of the Commission to convene for a period of over six months. The Chair provided an overview of the Audit and emphasized the importance of meeting quorum each month. 6. Discussion on planning a retreat for all Commissioners for early 2025. Discussion was had and they are now planning the retreat for another time early in the year. 7. Discussion of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ goals and objectives for 2025 budget recommendations as they relate to the Commission’s purpose and duties in City Code. Goals discussed were: public safety, economic development, life assessment, health care, financial literacy, legal literacy, U-Visas approval rate, educational system …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025030314: Translation and Interpretation Services for Boards and Commissions WHEREAS, Imagine Austin is a 30-year plan that maps out a vision of Austin as a beacon of sustainability, social equity, and economic opportunity; where diversity and creativity are celebrated; where community needs and values are recognized; where leadership comes from its citizens; and where the necessities of life are affordable and accessible to all1; and WHEREAS, a City of Austin report identified that many non-English-speaking residents abstain from engaging in the community due to language barriers and the associated challenges with communicating2; and WHEREAS, a recent audit found the city is not adequately meeting the goals of the policy, established in 2014 to provide translation and interpretation services, intended to give people equitable access to programs and information, leaving people to try to navigate these systems alone3; and WHEREAS, according to City data at iSpeak Austin, 31% of Austinites speak a language other than English at home and 11.4% of Austinites speak English “less than very well”4; and WHEREAS, The Commission on Immigrant Affairs (CoIA) most recent experience highlighted concerns about the current funding practice for language accessibility for Boards and Commissions, as well as the support process for Commissioners with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) who required live interpretation services during onboarding, training, and meetings; and WHEREAS, The CoIA had delays in the onboarding and training of an LEP Commissioner, while these services were ultimately provided, there was some confusion among regarding which department or office was responsible for delivering the translation and interpretation services, resulting in delays in fulfilling the request; and WHEREAS, the current funding practice for covering translation and interpretation services for Boards and Commissions was identified not sustainable. No department supporting Boards and Commissions allocates 1 City Embarks on Community-Wide Effort to Update Imagine Austin | AustinTexas.gov 2 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/pio/document.cfm?id=367457 3 Austin is not doing enough to communicate with non-English speakers, audit finds | KUT Radio, Austin's NPR Station 4 iSpeak Austin | AustinTexas.gov 5 https://www.austintexas.gov/page/language-access-policy specific funds in the fiscal budget for these interpretation and translation services for Commissioners who need them; and WHEREAS, without a proactive funding system, resources are often diverted from other essential services and programs when a need arises. A sustainable funding plan is necessary; and WHEREAS, The Commission on Immigrant Affairs (CoIA) additionally encountered inconsistencies in the support process of an LEP Commissioner, …
REGULAR MEETING of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS JANUARY 6, 2024 AT 6:30PM PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER ROOM 1203 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs 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, contact Gunjen Mittal at gunjen.mittal@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-6104. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Melissa Ortega, Chair Kevin T. Countie Miriam Dorantes, Vice Chair Adrian De La Rosa Luis Osta Lugo Aditi Joshi Jeanne “Canan” Kaba Yohana Saucedo Shweta Padmanabha AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up 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 Commission on Immigrant Affairs regular meeting on November 4, 2024. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Briefing by Rocio Villalobos, Program Manager at the Equity & Inclusion Management Services, regarding Certified Welcoming update, proposal for an Office of Immigrant Affairs, Know Your Rights presentations, and Immigrant Inclusion Mini Grant. PRESENTATION 3. Presentation by Sara Puig Laas, Board Director of the Immigrant Hall of Honor, regarding their initiative and non-profit. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Welcome new Commission members to the Commission on Immigrant Affairs. 5. Discussion and update of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs review at the December 11, 2024, Audit and Finance Committee meeting due to the failure of the Commission to convene for a period of over six months. 6. Discussion on planning a retreat for all Commissioners for early 2025. 7. Discussion of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ goals and objectives for 2025 budget recommendations as they relate to the Commission’s purpose and duties in City Code. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 8. Discussion and possible action on adding Community Stakeholder seats to the Commission on Immigrant Affairs. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 9. Discussion and review of the approved budget recommendation timeline and update membership for the Budget Recommendation working group. Current Members: Chair Ortega, Vice Chair Dorantes, Commissioner Joshi. 10. Update on Quality of Life Study working group and update membership. Current Members: Chair …
REGULAR MEETING of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS DECEMBER 2, 2024 AT 6:30PM CITY HALL, ROOM 1101 301 W. 2nd ST. AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs 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, contact Eric Anderson at eric.anderson@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-2562. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Melissa Ortega, Chair Miriam Dorantes, Vice Chair Adrian De La Rosa Luis Osta Lugo Victor Martinez Aditi Joshi Shweta Padmanabha Jeanne “Canan” Kaba Kevin T. Countie CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers signed up 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 Commission on Immigrant Affairs regular meeting on November 4, 2024. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion of adding community stakeholder seats to the Commission on Immigrant Affairs. 3. Discussion of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs review at the December 11, 2024, Audit and Finance Committee meeting due to the failure of the Commission to convene for a period of over six months. 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 Eric Anderson, Office or eric.anderson@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Commission on Immigrant Affairs, please contact Eric Anderson at (512) 974-2562 or eric.anderson@austintexas.gov. the City Clerk 974-2562 (512) of at
COMMISSION ON IMMIMGRANT AFFAIRS MEETING MINUTES NOVEMBER 4, 2024 COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2024 The Commission on Immigrant Affairs convened in a regular meeting on Monday, November 4, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Chair Ortega called the Commission on Immigrant Affairs Meeting to order at 6:41 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Melissa Ortega Adrian De La Rosa Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Vice Chair Miriam Dorantes Aditi Joshi Jeanne “Canan” Kaba Luis Osta Lugo Victor Martinez Shweta Padmanabha Commissioners Absent: Kevin Countie PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs regular meeting on October 7, 2024. The minutes from the regular meeting of October 7, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Martinez’s motion, Commissioner De La Rosa’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Countie was absent. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding the November 1, 2024, Naturalization Ceremony and November 2, 2024, Citizenship Clinic from Rocio Villalobos, Program Manager, Equity Office. COMMISSION ON IMMIMGRANT AFFAIRS MEETING MINUTES NOVEMBER 4, 2024 The presentation was made by Rocio Villalobos, Program Manager, Equity Office. Commissioner Joshi requested that staff provide information on the number of volunteers needed at citizenship clinics. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 6. 5. 4. 7. Presentation by Anne Drane, CEO and Co-founder of SAWA SAWA, regarding the work of SAWA SAWA and the organization’s benefits to the community. The presentation was made by Anne Drane, CEO and co-founder of SAWA SAWA. Discussion of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ goals and objectives for the next year as they relate to the Commission’s purpose and duties in City Code. Discussed. Discussion of planning a Commission on Immigrant Affairs retreat for early 2025. Discussed. January 11, 2025, at 10 a.m. was tentatively identified as a meeting date. Discussion of recent and upcoming Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) Community Input Sessions. Discussed. Discussion of the scope and membership of the Budget working group. (Current members: Chair Ortega, Vice Chair Dorantes, Commissioner Joshi) Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM 8. Approve the creation of a working group to promote recognition of the contributions of immigrants to the economic and cultural vitality of Austin. The motion to approve the creation of a working group to promote recognition of the contributions of immigrants to the economic and cultural vitality of Austin was approved on Commissioner De La Rosa’s motion, Chair Ortega’s second on …
REGULAR MEETING of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS NOVEMEBER 4, 2024 AT 6:30PM CITY HALL, ROOM 1101 301 W. 2nd ST. AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs 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, contact Eric Anderson at eric.anderson@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-2562. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Melissa Ortega, Chair Miriam Dorantes, Vice Chair Adrian De La Rosa Luis Osta Lugo Victor Martinez Aditi Joshi Shweta Padmanabha Jeanne “Canan” Kaba Kevin T. Countie CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers signed up 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 Commission on Immigrant Affairs regular meeting on October 7, 2024. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding the November 1, 2024, Naturalization Ceremony and November 2, 2024, Citizenship Clinic from Rocio Villalobos, Program Manager, Equity Office. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation by Anne Drane, CEO and Co-founder of SAWA SAWA, regarding the work of SAWA SAWA and the organization’s benefits to the community. Discussion of recent and upcoming Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) Community Input Sessions. Discussion of planning a Commission on Immigrant Affairs retreat for early 2025. Discussion of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ goals and objectives for the next year as they relate to the Commission’s purpose and duties in City Code. Discussion of the scope and membership of the Budget working group. (Current members: Chair Ortega, Vice Chair Dorantes, Commissioner Joshi) 4. 5. 6. 7. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM 8. Approve the creation of a working group to promote recognition of the contributions of immigrants to the economic and cultural vitality of Austin. 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 …
COMMISSION ON IMMIMGRANT AFFAIRS MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 7, 2024 COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2024 The Commission on Immigrant Affairs convened in a regular meeting on Monday, October 7, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Chair Ortega called the Commission on Immigrant Affairs Meeting to order at 6:46 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Melissa Ortega, Adrian De La Rosa Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Vice Chair Miriam Dorantes, Victor Martinez, Shweta Padmanabha, Jeanne “Canan” Kaba, Luis Osta Lugo, Kevin Countie PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING on 9/16/2024. The minutes from the special called meeting of September 16, 2024, were approved with the following amendment on Commissioner Martinez’s motion, Chair Ortega’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Joshi was absent. The amendment was to revise the action for items 8 through 14 to read “Withdrawn.” DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. Staff briefing regarding general update and invitation for the Commissioners to spread the word about the citizenship clinic from Rocio Villalobos, Program Manager, Equity Office. The presentation was made by Rocio Villalobos, Program Manager, Equity Office. Discussion on planning a retreat for all Commissioners in the coming months. Discussed. COMMISSION ON IMMIMGRANT AFFAIRS MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 7, 2024 4. Presentation by Amanda Rohlich, Business Process Consultant Sr., Food Policy Advisor, Office of Sustainability, on the Austin/Travis County Food Plan. The presentation was made by Amanda Rohlich, Business Process Consultant Sr., Food Policy Advisor, Office of Sustainability DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and approval of the Commissioners attending the Joint Inclusion Committee’s FY26 Community Input Sessions on October 2nd, October 16th, November 6th, and November 20th, 2024. Discussed with no action. Chair Ortega, Vice Chair Dorantes, Commissioner Countie, and Commissioner Kaba indicated they may attend the October 16, November 6, and November 20, 2024, sessions. Discussion and approval of The Commission on Immigrant Affairs' Regular Meeting schedule (dates and location) for 2025. The motion to approve the Commission on Immigrant Affairs 2025 meeting schedule was approved on Commissioner Martinez’s motion, Commissioner De La Rosa’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Joshi was absent. Discussion and approval of the Joint Inclusion Committee’s Regular Meeting schedule (dates and location) for 2025. Withdrawn. 6. 7. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS None. A motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:14 was made by Commissioner Martinez and approved …
SAWA SAWA Creating Meaningful Connections through Kenyan Woven Art & Fashion Diversity, Sustainability, and Cultural Connection Mission: To create sustainable, handcrafted products that empower artisans and promote cultural exchange Vision: A world connected through responsible, meaningful fashion that enriches lives and communities globally Anne Drane, Founder of SAWA SAWA ABOUT US Anne Drane’s journey began in Kenya, where she grew up surrounded by vibrant, rich traditions that celebrated the resilience and creativity of her community. Years after moving to the United States, Anne found herself missing this unique connection to her homeland and the artistry that defined it. Driven by a desire to bridge her two worlds, Anne founded SAWA SAWA, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering Kenyan women artisans. By connecting these artisans with consumers in Austin and beyond, SAWA SAWA offers a way for Austinites to experience and support the beauty of Kenyan craftsmanship in a sustainable, impactful way. The organization’s name, “SAWA SAWA”—meaning “it will be well”—echoes this message of hope and resilience. Each handcrafted product represents the unique stories and expertise of the women who create them, while fostering economic independence and preserving heritage. Through SAWA SAWA, Anne envisions a future where conscious consumers can make choices that connect them to the artisans behind their goods, creating meaningful connections between Austin and Kenya, one piece at a time. MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS Meaningful Cultural Immersion Travel ART IN PUBLIC SPACES SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS Agave Leather Beads Natural dye Grass Website sawasawausa.com linktr.ee/sawasawausa CONTACT DETAILS Email Address info@sawasawausa.com Phone Number 737-3330594
Immigrant Affairs Update prepared by Rocio Villalobos for the Commission on Immigrant Affairs November 4, 2024 Immigrant Affairs Update Overview ● Naturalization Ceremony at City Hall ● Citizenship Clinic ● Immigrant Inclusion Mini Grants Naturalization Ceremony ● Partnership with USCIS, federal judge, League of Women Voters of Austin ● 51 new citizens! ● Next ceremony at City Hall: December 6th Naturalization Ceremony Citizenship Clinic ● Partnership with American Gateways, Texas AFL-CIO, Asian American Resource Center, and Plumbers & Pipefitters union ● Helped approximately 50 people complete the N400 application for naturalization ● 2025 dates: April 12, September 13
1. REGULAR MEETING of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS OCTOBER 7, 2024 AT 6:30PM AUSTIN CITY HALL 301 W. 2nd ST. ROOM 1101 AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch- atxn-live 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 Gunjen Mittal, 512- 972-6104, gunjen.mittal@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Melissa Ortega, Chair Miriam Dorantes, Vice Chair Adrian De La Rosa Luis Osta Lugo Victor Martinez Aditi Joshi Shweta Padmanabha Jeanne Canan Kaba Kevin T. Countie CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers signed up 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 Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING on 9/16/2024. STAFF BRIEFING DISCUSSION ITEMS DISCUSSION AND ACTION 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Staff briefing regarding general update and invitation for the Commissioners to spread the word about the citizenship clinic from Rocio Villalobos, Program Manager, Equity Office. Discussion on planning a retreat for all Commissioners in the coming months. Presentation by Amanda Rohlich, Business Process Consultant Sr., Food Policy Advisor, Office of Sustainability, on the Austin/Travis County Food Plan. Discussion and approval of the Commissioners attending the Joint Inclusion Committee’s FY26 Community Input Sessions on October 2nd, October 16th, November 6th, and November 20th, 2024. Discussion and approval of The Commission on Immigrant Affairs' Regular Meeting schedule (dates and location) for 2025. Discussion and approval of the Joint Inclusion Committee’s Regular Meeting schedule (dates and location) for 2025. 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. TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT …
(COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS) MEETING MINUTES (16, September, 2024) COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES SEPTEMBER 16, 2024 AT 6:30PM AUSTIN, TEXAS The COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS convened in a SPECIAL CALLED meeting on 16, September, 2024 at 301 W. 2ND ST. in Austin, Texas. Chair Melissa Ortega called the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS Meeting to order at 6:53 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Melissa Ortega, Miriam Dorantes Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Vice Chair Victor Martinez, Aditi Joshi, Shweta Padmanabha, Adrian De La Rosa, Jeanne Canan Kaba Board Members/Commissioners not in Attendance: Luis Osta Lugo, Kevin Countie PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING on 2/5/2023. The minutes from the meeting of (2/5/2023) were approved on ADITI JOSHI’S motion, SHWETA PADMANABHAM’S second on a (7-0) vote. COMMISSIONERS LUIS OSTA LUGO, KEVIN COUNTIE absent DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Introduction and welcome of new Commissioners. The Chair, Commissioner Ortega, welcomed the new Commissioners: Shweta Padmanabha, Jeanne Canan Kaba, Miriam Dorantes and asked them to introduce themselves. (COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS) MEETING MINUTES (16, September, 2024) DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION 3. Conduct officer elections for Chair and Vice Chair The motion to approve Commissioner Melissa Ortega for Chair was approved on ADITI JOSHI’S motion, SHWETA PADMANABHAM’S second on a (7-0) vote. COMMISSIONERS LUIS OSTA LUGO, KEVIN COUNTIE absent The motion to approve Commissioner Miriam Dorantes for Vice Chair was approved on Miriam Dorantes’s motion, Adrian De La Rosa’s second on a (7-0) vote. COMMISSIONERS LUIS OSTA LUGO, KEVIN COUNTIE absent DISCUSSION AND ACTION membership. 5. Review and discuss the scope of the Quality-of-Life Study working group and update Current members of QOL Study workgroup are: Commissioners Aditi Joshi, Melissa Ortega, Victor Martinez and Adrian De La Rosa, All in favor for Commissioner Miriam Dorantes to join. Commissioner Ortega speaks on why it’s important to continue discussing why the CoIA should review all the budget recommendations. Victor Martinez voiced that he feels it’s not important to review the recommendations because he feels it’s a better use of time to work on future budget recommendations, since the budget has already been passed. Adrian also feels that this is a good opportunity to dig into the work Rocio Villalobos feels it can be a useful exercise of thinking about the Commission and what they want to consider to follow what the …
A Food Plan for Austin-Travis County Commission on Immigrant Affairs October 7, 2024 1 Today’s Topics ● Background ○ What is a food system ● How we Created the Austin Travis County Food Plan ○ What did Plan co-creation process look like? Who participated? ● What’s in the Plan and What’s Coming Next ○ Plan vision, goals, and strategy highlights ○ Next steps 2 2 Background 3 Some Food for Thought 4 Food Production: Where our food comes from, including everything from farming to ranching Food Processing & Distribution: What happens to food from where it is grown to when it reaches your plate, including how food is moved and processed. Food Markets & Retails: Where food is sold, purchased, or provided cost-free. Food Consumption & Access: How we eat our food, who struggles to get enough food, and what impact our consumption has on our health. Post-Consumption & Food Waste: What happens to the parts of food we don’t eat and the impact of food waste on the environment. Food Justice: How systemic racism & colonization impact how the food system works — or doesn’t work — for each member of our community. 5 Some of Our Food System Challenges Disasters and severe weather events: Winter Storms Uri and Mara Rapid community growth and planning for land use Supply chain disruptions: COVID-19 pandemic The climate impacts of the food system 6 How We Co-Created the Food Plan 7 Origins • • In June 2021, Austin City Council directed the City Manager to initiate a planning process. In December 2022, Travis County Commissioners Court approved formal Travis County participation in the plan. Why a Food Plan? • Sets clear goals and strategies to move toward a more equitable, sustainable, resilient food system. • Builds on existing plans and initiatives from the County, City, and community to tackle key food system issues. • Centers equity and the lived expertise of those most impacted by the current food system. 8 8 Project Timeline Phase 0: Planning for the Plan Phase 1: Vision Development Phase 2: Goal & Strategy Development Phase 3: Review and Ground truthing 2021 – Jan 2023 Mar – Aug 2023 Aug 2023 – Feb 2024 Mar – Aug 2024 ● Website launch 📶 4 World Cafes ☕ ● ● ● ● Building Community Awareness 📰 Release of State of the Food System Report 📚 Onboarding Planning Consultant⭐ Recruitment of …
COMMISSION ON IMMIMGRANT AFFAIRS MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 7, 2024 COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2024 The Commission on Immigrant Affairs convened in a regular meeting on Monday, October 7, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Chair Ortega called the Commission on Immigrant Affairs Meeting to order at 6:46 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Melissa Ortega, Adrian De La Rosa Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Vice Chair Miriam Dorantes, Victor Martinez, Shweta Padmanabha, Jeanne “Canan” Kaba, Luis Osta Lugo, Kevin Countie PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING on 9/16/2024. The minutes from the special called meeting of September 16, 2024, were approved with the following amendment on Commissioner Martinez’s motion, Chair Ortega’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Joshi was absent. The amendment was to revise the action for items 8 through 14 to read “Withdrawn.” DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. Staff briefing regarding general update and invitation for the Commissioners to spread the word about the citizenship clinic from Rocio Villalobos, Program Manager, Equity Office. The presentation was made by Rocio Villalobos, Program Manager, Equity Office. Discussion on planning a retreat for all Commissioners in the coming months. Discussed. COMMISSION ON IMMIMGRANT AFFAIRS MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 7, 2024 4. Presentation by Amanda Rohlich, Business Process Consultant Sr., Food Policy Advisor, Office of Sustainability, on the Austin/Travis County Food Plan. The presentation was made by Amanda Rohlich, Business Process Consultant Sr., Food Policy Advisor, Office of Sustainability DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and approval of the Commissioners attending the Joint Inclusion Committee’s FY26 Community Input Sessions on October 2nd, October 16th, November 6th, and November 20th, 2024. Discussed with no action. Chair Ortega, Vice Chair Dorantes, Commissioner Countie, and Commissioner Kaba indicated they may attend the October 16, November 6, and November 20, 2024, sessions. Discussion and approval of The Commission on Immigrant Affairs' Regular Meeting schedule (dates and location) for 2025. The motion to approve the Commission on Immigrant Affairs 2025 meeting schedule was approved on Commissioner Martinez’s motion, Commissioner De La Rosa’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Joshi was absent. Discussion and approval of the Joint Inclusion Committee’s Regular Meeting schedule (dates and location) for 2025. Withdrawn. 6. 7. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS None. A motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:14 was made by Commissioner Martinez and approved …
1. SPECIAL CALLED MEETING of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS SEPTEMBER 16, 2024 AT 6:30PM AUSTIN CITY HALL 301 W. 2nd ST. ROOM 1101 AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch- atxn-live 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 Gunjen Mittal, 512- 972-6104, gunjen.mittal@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Melissa Ortega, Chair Victor Martinez, Vice Chair Miriam Dorantes Aditi Joshi Kevin T. Countie Adrian De La Rosa Luis Osta Lugo Jeanne Canan Kaba Shweta Padmanabham CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers signed up 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 Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING on 2/5/2024. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 2. Welcome new Commissioners to Commission on Immigrant Affairs. DISCUSSION ITEMS DISCUSSION AND ACTION Discussion and approval of the nomination of a Commission on Immigrant Affairs member to the Joint Inclusion Committee. Review and discuss the scope of the Quality-of-Life Study working group and update membership. Current members of QOL Study workgroup are: Commissioners Aditi Joshi, Melissa Ortega, Victor Martinez and Adrian De La Rosa. Review and discuss the scope of Budget working group and update membership. Current members of the Budget workgroup are: Commissioner Melissa Ortega. Discussion and approval of recommendation on budget reporting for Commission on Immigrant Affairs. Discussion and approval of recommendation on FY 24-25 Equity Office Funding Recommendation. Discussion and approval of recommendation on FY 24-25 Expansion of Emergency Housing and Rental Assistance Program Funding Recommendation. Discussion and approval of recommendation on FY 24-25 Collective Sex Crimes Response Model Actions Funding Recommendation. Discussion and approval of recommendation on FY 24-25 Early Childhood Investments Funding Recommendation. Discussion and approval of recommendation on FY 24-25 Budget for LGBTQIA+ Affirming Mental Healthcare. Discussion and approval of recommendation on budget for Quality of Life Study. Discussion and approval of recommendation …
