BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20250707-012: Support of Academia Cuauhtli Programming and Expansion WHEREAS, since its founding in 2013, Academia Cuauhtli (founded by Nuestro Grupo, a community-based volunteer organization) was established at the ESB-MACC as a free Saturday culture and language revitalization academy for elementary school children and their parents, with a curriculum focused on Indigeneity, social justice, Tejano history, traditional arts, and danza Mexica and since July 2014, Academia Cuauhtli has served as an official educational enterprise partnered with the Austin Independent School District (AISD) and Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Culture Center (ESB-MACC); and WHEREAS, Academia Cuauhtli, administered through a Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Austin, Austin Independent School District (AISD), and Nuestro Grupo embraces and fulfills the purpose of “making Austin a place where its high quality of life is available to and accessible for all its citizens” by advocating for educational equity and well-being for Austin Independent School District students in collaboration with the University of Texas at Austin; and WHEREAS, Academia Cuauhtli fulfills its vision statement expressed as “a future where children live with a thinking heart and the courage to pursue their aspirations within the liberating and sacred learning spaces” by overseeing the administrative operations for multiple year long projects which include: Saturday Esquelita (September-March), Summer STEM School (June-August), La Collaborativa Cuauhtli, Cuauhtli Teacher Curriculum Workshops, and a research team comprised of 11 qualitative and quantitative education scholars; and WHEREAS, Academia Cuauhtli fulfills its mission expressed as “to honor our communities' cultural heritage, foster social justice, and reclaim our collective identities in pursuit of educational freedom” by serving as a means for the comprehensive advancement of the students and their parents—via its strong partnership with students’ parents—by providing a supportive and uplifting learning environment, as well as for providing for the social, and economic needs, including the extensive COVID-related assistance extended to its participant Latino families during the pandemic in Austin, Texas; and WHEREAS, Academia Cuauthli fulfills its mission by enrolling from 2014-2024 over 800 AISD emergent bilingual students, trained over 250 Indigenous/Latinx public school teachers, hosted over 25 professional development workshops, initiated Cuauhtli’s Grow Your Own bilingual leadership development program for AISD teachers of color, and successfully implemented a research-university-community partnership between AISD, UT Austin’s College of Education Department of Educational Leadership and Policy faculty and graduate student researchers, the Teresa Lozano Long Institute of Latin American Studies …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20250707-013: Protecting and Sustaining Local Public Health Infrastructure in Austin WHEREAS, Austin Public Health (APH) provides vital population-level services that protect over 1.35 million residents, including immunization clinics, HIV and STD testing and treatment, refugee health screenings, violence prevention programming, substance misuse support, and neighborhood centers offering basic needs assistance; and WHEREAS, core public health infrastructure funding in the amount of $9,500,000 is currently at risk due to unstable federal funding streams and national-level proposals to reduce or eliminate key public health support; and WHEREAS, the federal political climate—marked by increasing hostility toward public health institutions—has created uncertainty for municipalities dependent on federal dollars, putting local public health outcomes in jeopardy; and WHEREAS, investing in public health not only enhances the quality of life for all but can also lead to substantial savings over time; and WHEREAS, In 2016, the Austin City Council, through RESOLUTION NO. 20160128-068, adopted a formal policy to invest in additional funding for health and social services; and THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends the City of Austin fully protect the $9,500,000 currently allocate to Core Public Health Infrastructure along with a dedicated $6,000,000 public health reserve fund to ensure the continuity of essential services in the event of further federal disinvestment or emergency needs; BE IT, FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends the City of Austin prioritize funding for public health programs, advocate at the state and national levels for sustained investment in local public health systems and oppose federal-level efforts that jeopardize public health funding, particularly for historically underserved communities. Date of Approval: 7/7/2025 Record of the vote: 10-0 Motioned by: Commissioner Johnson Seconded by: Commissioner De La Rosa For: Chair Ortega, Vice Chair Dorantes, Commissioners De La Rosa, Edwin, Johnson, Joshi, Kaba, Kanawati, Lincoln-Goldfinch, Roy Absent: Commissioner Saucedo Attest: Nekaybaw Watson Nekaybaw Watson
Annual Internal Review This report covers the time period of 7/1/2024 to 6/30/2025 Commission on Immigrant Affairs The Board/Commission mission statement (per the City Code) is: § 2-1-126 - COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS. (B)The commission shall: (1) advise the city council on issues of common concern to immigrants, particularly in the areas of health and human services, education, and the demographic makeup of the Austin immigrant community; (2) monitor requirements of federal, state, and local immigration, welfare and other laws that affect immigrants, and recommend to the city council actions to maximize the benefits to local immigrants under existing laws and to minimize the adverse impacts to local immigrants under the laws; (3) promote recognition of the contributions of the foreign-born to the economic and cultural vitality of Austin; and (4) promote the availability of, and promote accessibility to, local educational, economic, legal, and social resources for immigrants. 1. Describe the board’s actions supporting their mission during the previous calendar year. Address all elements of the board’s mission statement as provided in the relevant sections of the City Code. (Reference all reports, recommendations, letters or resolutions presented to the City Council on mission-specific issues. If some of the elements of the mission statement were not acted on by the board in the past year, the report should explain why no action was taken.) The Commission on Immigrant Affairs (CoIA) submitted its budget recommendations to City Council for Fiscal Year 2024-2025. These recommendations were shared with City Council and relevant staff, in alignment with the commission’s advisory role to promote equitable access to educational, economic, legal, health, human services, and social resources for immigrant communities. Annual Review and Work Plan Year Page # In addition to presenting specific recommendations, the commission also emphasized the importance of reporting by advocating for a more strategic and collaborative approach to the budget recommendation process, in keeping with its advisory responsibility. The commission’s approved budget recommendations were as follows: Recommendation 20240916-006 Subject: Budget Reporting Recommendation 20250303-014: Translation and Interpretation Services for Boards and Commissions Recommendation Number: 20250329-007: Family Stabilization Program as a Mechanism for Promoting Housing Stability Recommendation Number: 20250329-008: Reallocation of Quality-of-Life Study Funds to the FY 2025–2026 Budget Recommendation Number: 20250329-006: Providing Funding for Printing and Distribution of 'Know Your Rights' Red Cards at Austin Public Libraries Recommendation Number: 20250329-005: Providing Resources for Immigrant Students Recommendation Number: 20250329-004: Budget Expand Equity and Inclusion …
Commission on Immigrant Affairs Meeting Minutes July 7, 2025 Commission on Immigrant Affairs Regular Meeting Minutes Monday, July 7, 2025 The Commission on Immigrant Affairs convened in a regular meeting on Monday, July 7, 2025, at Austin City Hall, W 3rd St, Room 1101 in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Dorantes called the Commission on Immigrant Affairs Regular Meeting to order at 6:39 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Miriam Dorantes, Vice Chair Adrian De La Rosa Alondra Johnson Diane Kanawati Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Melissa Ortega, Chair Azeem Edwin Aditi Joshi Jeanne “Canan” Kaba Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch Meghna Roy PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos Soto – Community Advancement Network Kathy Mitchell – General Budget Savannah Lee – Funding for community investment priorities APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Immigration Affairs regular meeting on June 2, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of June 2, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Johnson’s motion, Vice Chair Dorantes’ second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Saucedo was absent. 1 Commission on Immigrant Affairs Meeting Minutes July 7, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding updates on the procurement process and budget of the Quality- of-Life Study by Alejandra Mireles, Equity and Inclusion Program Coordinator and Jeremy Garza, Business Process Consultant – Equity Division, Office of Equity and Inclusion. Staff briefing was made by Jeremy Garza, Business Process Consultant and Amanda Jasso, Program Manager 1 – Equity Division, Office of Equity and Inclusion. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. Welcome new Commissioners to Commission on Immigrant Affairs. Discussed. Update on the most recent Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) meeting held in June 2025, as it relates to the Commission on Immigrant Affairs. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. 6. 7. 8. Approve the 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review Report. The motion to approve the 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review Report was approved on Vice Chair Dorantes’ motion, Commissioner Kaba’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Saucedo was absent. Approve updates to the membership of the Quality-of-Life Working Group. (Working group Members: Chair Melissa Ortega, Commissioners Alondra Johnson, Aditi Joshi, Jeanne C Kaba; Community Stakeholders: Karen Crawford, Krystal Gomez, Oscar Ponce, and Kirk Yoshida). The motion to approve the addition of Commissioners Kanawati and Roy to the Quality-of-Life Working Group was approved on Chair Ortega’s motion, Vice Chair Dorantes’ second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Saucedo was absent. Approve updates to the membership of the Budget Working Group. (Working Group Members: …
REGULAR MEETING of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS JUNE 2, 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 Alondra Johnson Azeem Edwin Aditi Joshi Miriam Dorantes, Vice Chair Adrian De La Rosa Yohana Saucedo Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch Jeanne “Canan” Kaba Meghana Roy 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 May 5, 2025. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Briefing by Rocio Villalobos, Equity and Inclusion Program Manager - Immigrant Affairs, regarding general updates on immigrant affairs. 3. Briefing by Jeremy Garza and Alejandra Mireles, Equity and Inclusion Program Coordinator – Equity Division, Office of Equity and Inclusion, regarding update on Quality-of-Life study of immigrants, refugees and other foreign-born community members. 4. Briefing by Dr. Wilson regarding status update for budget of Commission on Immigrant Affairs Study. PRESENTATION 5. Presentation by Academia Cuauhtli, a community-based education initiative focused on serving Austin’s immigrant and Spanish-speaking communities through culturally and linguistically sustaining programming regarding brief overview of our work and request support for our FY 2025–2026 budget recommendation 6. Presentation by Daniela Silva, from Worker’s Defense Action Fund regarding license plate readers pilot program. DISCUSSION ITEMS 7. Welcome new Commissioners to Commission on Immigrant Affairs. 8. Discussion regarding the planned sunsetting of the Equity Division’s Undoing Racism trainings for community members, City staff, and Commissioners. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 9. Discussion and action on the proposal made by the Audit and Finance Committee regarding the Commission on Immigrant Affairs bylaws. 10. Discussion and action on approving a budget recommendation to amend the contract and close the remaining $90,000 gap for the Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ Quality-of-Life Study. 11. Discussion and …
(COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS MEETING MINUTES) (05,MAY,2025) COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 5, MAY, 2025 The COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS convened in a REGULAR meeting on 5, MAY, 2025, at W. 3rd Street, AUSTIN CITY HALL, ROOM 1101 in Austin, Texas. Chair MELISSA ORTEGA called the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS Meeting to order at 6:41p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Melissa Ortega, Chair, Miriam Dorantes, Vice Chair, Alondra Johnson, Adrian De La Rosa, Aditi Joshi, Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch, Jeanne “Canan” Kaba Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Miriam Dorantes, Vice Chair, Adrian De La Rosa, Aditi Joshi, Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch, Jeanne “Canan” Kaba APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS (REGULAR) MEETING on 3, MARCH, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of (3/3/2025) were approved on MIRIAM DORANTES’S motion, ADRIAN DE LA ROSA’S second on a (7-0) vote. (AZEEM EDWIN AND YOHANA SAUCEDO, off the dais or absent) 2. Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS (REGULAR) MEETING on 15, MARCH, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of (3/15/2025) were approved on JEANNE CANAN KABA’S motion, ADITI JOSHI’S second on a (7-0) vote. (AZEEM EDWIN AND YOHANA SAUCEDO, off the dais or absent) 3. Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS (REGULAR) MEETING on 29, MARCH, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of (3/29/2025) were approved on ALONDRA JOHNSON’S motion, MIRIAM DORANTES’S second on a (7-0) vote. (AZEEM EDWIN AND YOHANA SAUCEDO, off the dais or absent) Amendment of time end 10:05am. 1 (COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS MEETING MINUTES) (05,MAY,2025) STAFF BRIEFINGS 4. Staff briefing regarding general updates on immigrant affairs. The presentation was made by (Rocio Villalobos, Equity and Inclusion Program Manager - Immigrant Affairs). 5. Staff briefing regarding peer commissions currently conducting Quality of Life studies. The presentation was made by (Alejandra Mireles, Equity and Inclusion Program Coordinator – Equity Division, Office of Equity and Inclusion). 6. Staff briefing regarding introductions. The presentation was made by (Dr. Wilson, Equity and Inclusion Director, Equity Division, Office of Equity and Inclusion). 7. Staff briefing regarding introductions. The presentation was made by (Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Equity Division, Office of Equity and Inclusion). DISCUSSION ITEMS 8. Discussion of welcoming new Commissioners to Commission on Immigrant Affairs. Commissioner Lincoln-Goldfinch and Commissioner Johnson introduced themselves to the Commission. 9. Discussion on next steps for the Quality-of-Life Study. No discussion. 10. Discussion and update on …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20250602010: Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ Quality of Life Study WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ Quality -of-Life Study represents the final installment of the five-part Quality of Life Study series originally funded through the $1.25 million allocation in the FY 2022–2023 City of Austin budget; and WHEREAS, due to inflation, increased engagement needs, and a recent $65,000 reallocation to support another study, only $310,000 currently remains available for this effort; and WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs has identified a highly qualified vendor with deep cultural competence and strong community trust who is prepared to begin immediately; the vendor is willing to proceed at the $310,000 level to meet the June 3rd contracting deadline; and WHEREAS, proceeding in this manner would require significant reductions to the study’s core components—either in its qualitative or quantitative methodologies—and would force the removal or limitation of essential safety protocols and language access services; and WHEREAS, these elements are critical for ensuring participant trust, security, and ethical engagement with immigrant, refugee, and foreign-born community members who are facing unprecedented levels of fear, state violence, institutional disenfranchisement; and WHEREAS, unlike any Quality-of-Life Study, this study must navigate: • An increasingly hostile political climate at both the state and federal levels, with targeted policies; • Heighten safety security requirements for participants and researchers alike; • A need for expanded multilingual engagement and interpretation services; WHEREAS, reducing the study’s scope due to budget constraints risk compromising its integrity, accuracy, and long-term policy value. THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends City Council to not only support the full $400,00 budget for this study, but to direct the City Manager to instruct the Office of Equity & Inclusion to utilize its 25-26 operating budget to close the 90,000 gap through a contract amendment. This would allow the project to begin on time and ensure the full scope of work is completed with integrity, care, and cultural sensitivity that our immigrant communities deserve. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20250602011: Opposing the Use of Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) Due to Their Impact on Immigrant Communities WHEREAS, Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) collect and store location data on every vehicle that passes their cameras; and WHEREAS, the Austin Police Department (APD) facilitates the basic operations of the Austin Regional Intelligence center (ARIC) where the agency actively shares data and intelligence with many law enforcement agencies, including federal agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE); and those who are WHEREAS, the data sharing structure places undocumented, at a heightened risk of surveillance, detention, and deportation for routine activities such as driving to work, school, or medical appointments; and immigrant residents, especially WHEREAS, a recent audit1 of the program found “that while the department largely complied with policies during the yearlong pilot, internal audit procedures and vendor contracts left room for improvement and potential privacy risks”2; and WHEREAS, the audit also raised concerns with the vendor Flock Safety’s language, which states Flock has a ‘non-exclusive, worldwide, perpetual right’ to use and share anonymized data for development purposes3; and WHEREAS, this unchecked use of surveillance technology creates a chilling effect in immigrant communities, discouraging residents from seeking services, participating in civic life, or interacting with public institution due to fear of exposure and retaliation; and THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends the City of Austin oppose the deployment and expansion of ALPR systems that endanger the safety and dignity of immigrant communities; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends the City of Austin commits to policies that protect immigrant residents from federal surveillance and prioritizes investments in community safety, legal services, and trust-based public infrastructure over tools that contribute to the criminalization of immigration.4 1 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=451731 2 https://www.austinmonitor.com/stories/2025/05/audit-flags-oversight-gaps-in-apd-license-plate-reader-pilot/ 3 Ibid., https://www.austinmonitor.com/stories/2025/05/audit-flags-oversight-gaps-in-apd-license-plate-reader- pilot/ Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20250602-010: Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ Quality of Life Study WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ Quality -of-Life Study represents the final installment of the five-part Quality of Life Study series originally funded through the $1.25 million allocation in the FY 2022–2023 City of Austin budget; and WHEREAS, due to inflation, increased engagement needs, and a recent $65,000 reallocation to support another study, only $310,000 currently remains available for this effort; and WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs has identified a highly qualified vendor with deep cultural competence and strong community trust who is prepared to begin immediately; the vendor is willing to proceed at the $310,000 level to meet the June 3rd contracting deadline; and WHEREAS, proceeding in this manner would require significant reductions to the study’s core components—either in its qualitative or quantitative methodologies—and would force the removal or limitation of essential safety protocols and language access services; and these elements are critical for ensuring participant trust, security, and ethical WHEREAS, engagement with immigrant, refugee, and foreign-born community members who are facing unprecedented levels of fear, state violence, institutional disenfranchisement; and WHEREAS, unlike any Quality-of-Life Study, this study must navigate: • An increasingly hostile political climate at both the state and federal levels, with targeted policies; • Heighten safety security requirements for participants and researchers alike; • A need for expanded multilingual engagement and interpretation services; WHEREAS, reducing the study’s scope due to budget constraints risk compromising its integrity, accuracy, and long-term policy value. THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends City Council to not only support the full $400,00 budget for this study, but to direct the City Manager to instruct the Office of Equity & Inclusion to utilize its 25-26 operating budget to close the 90,000 gap through a contract amendment. This would allow the project to begin on time and ensure the full scope of work is completed with integrity, care, and cultural sensitivity that our immigrant communities deserve. Date of Approval: June 2, 2025 Record of the vote: 7-0 Motioned by: Commissioner Saucedo Seconded by: Commissioner Kaba For: Chair Ortega, Vice Chair Dorantes, Commissioners De La Rosa, Johnson, Joshi, Kaba, Saucedo Absent: Commissioners Edwin, Lincoln-Goldfinch, Roy Attest: Nekaybaw Watson Nekaybaw Watson
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20250602-011: Opposing the Use of Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) Due to Their Impact on Immigrant Communities WHEREAS, Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) collect and store location data on every vehicle that passes their cameras; and WHEREAS, the Austin Police Department (APD) facilitates the basic operations of the Austin Regional Intelligence center (ARIC) where the agency actively shares data and intelligence with many law enforcement agencies, including federal agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE); and those who are WHEREAS, the data sharing structure places undocumented, at a heightened risk of surveillance, detention, and deportation for routine activities such as driving to work, school, or medical appointments; and immigrant residents, especially WHEREAS, a recent audit1 of the program found “that while the department largely complied with policies during the yearlong pilot, internal audit procedures and vendor contracts left room for improvement and potential privacy risks”2; and WHEREAS, the audit also raised concerns with the vendor Flock Safety’s language, which states Flock has a ‘non-exclusive, worldwide, perpetual right’ to use and share anonymized data for development purposes3; and WHEREAS, this unchecked use of surveillance technology creates a chilling effect in immigrant communities, discouraging residents from seeking services, participating in civic life, or interacting with public institution due to fear of exposure and retaliation; and THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends the City of Austin oppose the deployment and expansion of ALPR systems that endanger the safety and dignity of immigrant communities; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends the City of Austin commits to policies that protect immigrant residents from federal surveillance and prioritizes investments in community safety, legal services, and trust-based public infrastructure over tools that contribute to the criminalization of immigration.4 1 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=451731 2 https://www.austinmonitor.com/stories/2025/05/audit-flags-oversight-gaps-in-apd-license-plate-reader-pilot/ 3 Ibid., https://www.austinmonitor.com/stories/2025/05/audit-flags-oversight-gaps-in-apd-license-plate-reader- pilot/ Date of Approval: June 2, 2025 Record of the vote: 7-0 Motioned by: Commissioner Johnson Seconded by: Commissioner De La Rosa For: Chair Ortega, Vice Chair Dorantes, Commissioners De La Rosa, Johnson, Joshi, Kaba, Saucedo Absent: Commissioners Edwin, Lincoln-Goldfinch, Roy Attest: Nekaybaw Watson Nekaybaw Watson
Commission on Immigrant Affairs Meeting Minutes June 2, 2025 Commission on Immigrant Affairs REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, June 2, 2025 The Commission on Immigrant Affairs convened in a regular meeting on Monday, June 2, 2025, at Austin City Hall, W 3rd St, Room 1101 in Austin, Texas. Chair Ortega called the Commission on Immigrant Affairs Regular Meeting to order at 6:44 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Melissa Ortega, Chair Adrian De La Rosa Alondra Johnson Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Miriam Dorantes, Vice-Chair Aditi Joshi Jeanne “Canan” Kaba Meghna Roy Yohana Saucedo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Immigration Affairs regular meeting on May 5, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of May 5, 2025 were approved on Commissioner Joshi’s motion, Commissioner Lincoln-Goldfinch’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Edwin was absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 1 Commission on Immigrant Affairs Meeting Minutes June 2, 2025 2. 3. 4. Briefing by Rocio Villalobos, Equity and Inclusion Program Manager – Immigrant Affairs, regarding general updates on immigrant affairs. The presentation was made by Rocio Villalobos, Equity and Inclusion Program Manager – Immigrant Affairs. Briefing by Jeremy Garza and Alejandra Mireles, Equity and Inclusion Program Coordinator – Equity Division, Office of Equity and Inclusion, regarding update on Quality-of-Life study of immigrants, refugees and other foreign-born community members. The presentation was made by Jeremy Garza and Alejandra Mireles, Equity and Inclusion Program Coordinator – Equity Division, Office of Equity and Inclusion. Briefing by Dr. Wilson regarding status update for budget of Commission on Immigrant Affairs Study. Withdrawn. PRESENTATION 5. 6. Presentation by Academia Cuauhtli, a community-based education initiative focused on serving Austin’s immigrant and Spanish-speaking communities through culturally and linguistically sustaining programming regarding brief overview of our work and request support for our FY 2025-2026 budget recommendation. The presentation was made by Angela Venezuela, Emilio Zamora, and Dr. Carmen Unda, founders and educators - Academia Cuauhtli. Presentation by Daniela Silva, from Worker’s Defense Action Fund regarding license plate readers pilot program. The presentation was made by Daniela Silva, from Worker’s Defense Action Fund. DISCUSSION ITEMS 7. 8. Welcome new Commissioners to Commission on Immigrant Affairs. Withdrawn Discussion regarding the planned sunsetting of the Equity Division’s Undoing Racism trainings for community members, City staff, and Commissioners. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 9. Discussion and action on the proposal made by the Audit and Finance Committee regarding the …
REGULAR MEETING of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS MAY 5, 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 Alondra Johnson Azeem Edwin Miriam Dorantes, Vice Chair Adrian De La Rosa Yohana Saucedo Aditi Joshi Jeanne “Canan” Kaba 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 March 3, 2025. 2. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs special called meeting on March 15, 2025. 3. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs special called meeting on March 29, 2025. STAFF BRIEFING 4. Briefing by Rocio Villalobos, Equity and Inclusion Program Manager - Immigrant Affairs, regarding general updates on immigrant affairs. 5. Briefing by Alejandra Mireles, Equity and Inclusion Program Coordinator – Equity Division, Office of Equity and Inclusion, regarding peer commissions currently conducting Quality of Life studies. 6. Briefing by Dr. Wilson, Equity and Inclusion Director, Equity Division, Office of Equity and Inclusion regarding introductions. 7. Briefing by Shafina Kakhi, Human Rights Officer, Equity Division, Office of Equity and Inclusion regarding introductions. DISCUSSION ITEMS 8. Welcome new Commissioners to Commission on Immigrant Affairs. 9. Discussion on next steps for the Quality-of-Life Study. 10. Discussion and update on the Joint Inclusion Committee Special Called Meeting. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 11. Discussion and approval for the Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ nomination and election for Chair. 12. Discussion and approval for the Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ nomination and election for Vice Chair. 13. Discussion and approval for the Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ nomination and election for JIC’s Primary Representative. 14. Discussion and approval for the Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ nomination and election for JIC’s …
(COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS) MEETING MINUTES (3, MARCH, 2025) COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 3, MARCH, 2025 The COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS convened in a REGULAR meeting on 3, MARCH, 2025, at AUSTIN CITY HALL, W. 3rd ST, ROOM 1101 in Austin, Texas. Chair MELISSA ORTEGA called the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS Meeting to order at 6:44p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Melissa Ortega, Miriam Dorantes, Adrian De La Rosa, Azeem Edwin Aditi Joshi, Jeanne Canan Kaba, Yohana Saucedo Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely:, Jeanne Canan Kaba, Yohana Saucedo, Aditi Joshi DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs regular meeting on January 6, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of (1/6/2025) were approved on ADITI JOSHI’S motion, MIRIAM DORANTES’S second on a (7-0) vote. (KEVIN COUNTIE AND SHWETA PADMANABHA abstaining, off the dais or absent) STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding general updates on policies pertaining to the Immigrant Community. The presentation was made by Lieutenant Davis Christopher, Austin Police Department. 3. Staff briefing regarding the new citywide language access plan. The presentation was made by Houmma Garba, Language Access and Community Engagement Consultant from the Corporate Communications & Public Information Office. 4. Staff briefing regarding general updates on immigrant affairs. The presentation was made by Rocio Villalobos, Immigrant Affairs Program Manager at the Office of Equity and Inclusion. 5. Staff briefing regarding timeline and steps for Quality of Life Study. The presentation was made by by Alejandra Mireles, Equity and Inclusion Program Coordinator from (Equity Division) Office of Equity and Inclusion 1 (COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS) MEETING MINUTES (3, MARCH, 2025) PRESENTATION 6. Presentation was 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. Presentation was made by Rebecca Lightsey, Co-Executive Director of American Gateways. DISCUSSION ITEMS 7. Discussion of welcoming new commissioners to Commission on Immigrant Affairs. Chair Ortega welcomed new Commissioner Edwin to the Commission. Commissioner Edwin introduced himself and his work in the community. 8. Discussion of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ Draft Budget Recommendations for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. The Chair discussed the March 31st deadline for budget recommendations. Asked for other Commissioners to join drafting budget recommendations for FY25-26. …
(COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS) Meeting Minutes (29,MARCH, 2025) COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES 29, MARCH, 2025 The COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS convened in a SPECIAL CALLED meeting on 29, MARCH, 2025, at CITY OF AUSTIN PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER ROOMS #1401 & 1402 in Austin, Texas. Chair MELISSA ORTEGA called the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS Meeting to order at 9:48 a.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Melissa Ortega, Miriam Dorantes, Adrian De La Rosa, Azeem Edwin, Aditi Joshi, Jeanne Canan Kaba, Yohana Saucedo Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Aditi Joshi, Jeanne Canan Kaba, Yohana Saucedo, Miriam Dorantes, Adrian De La Rosa, Azeem Edwin DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 1. Approve FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to develop a City of Austin Immigrant Affairs Office. The motion to approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to develop a City of Austin Immigrant Affairs Office was approved on COMMISSIONER DORANTES’s motion and COMMISSIONER EDWIN’S second on a (7-0) vote. (COMMISSIONERS KEVIN COUNTIE, SHWETA PADMANABHA, off the dais or absent) 2. Approve FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to Expand the Equity Mini Grant Funds to $600,000 in support of Immigrant Inclusion, Solidarity with Unhoused People, and Anti- displacement Prevention Efforts. The motion to approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to Expand the Equity Mini Grant Funds to $600,000 in support of Immigrant Inclusion, Solidarity with Unhoused People, and Anti-displacement Prevention Efforts was approved on COMMISISONER (7-0) vote. EDWIN’S motion and COMMISSIONER JOSHI’S second on a (COMMISSIONERS KEVIN COUNTIE, SHWETA PADMANABHA, off the dais or absent) 3. Approve the FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to Maintain and Expand the Annual Contracts into a Five-Year Term for Austin Public Health Immigrant Legal Services. Tabled for April meeting. (COMMISSIONERS KEVIN COUNTIE, SHWETA PADMANABHA, off the dais or absent) 1 (COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS) Meeting Minutes (29,MARCH, 2025) 4. Approve FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to Expand Equity and Inclusion Trainings. The motion to approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to Expand Equity and Inclusion Trainings was and COMMISSIONER JOSHI’S second on a (7-0) vote. (COMMISSIONERS KEVIN COUNTIE, SHWETA PADMANABHA, off the dais or absent) on COMMISSIONER SAUCEDO’S motion approved 5. Approve the FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to Support Supplies for Strengthening Protections and Rights of Immigrant Students. The motion to approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to Support Supplies for Strengthening Protections and Rights of Immigrant Students was approved on COMMISSIONER DORANTES’S motion and COMMISSIONER JOSHI’S second on a (7-0) vote. (COMMISSIONERS KEVIN COUNTIE, SHWETA PADMANABHA, off the …
(COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS) MEETING MINUTES (15, MARCH, 2025) COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES 15, MARCH, 2025 The COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS convened in a SPECIAL CALLED meeting on 15, MARCH, 2025, at PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER ROOMS #1401 & 1402, 6310 WILHELMINA DRIVE in Austin, Texas. Chair MELISSA ORTEGA called the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS Meeting to order at 11:16 a.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Melissa Ortega, Miriam Dorantes, Adrian De La Rosa Azeem Edwin Aditi Joshi, Jeanne Canan Kaba, Yohana Saucedo Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Adrian De La Rosa, Azeem Edwin, Jeanne Canan Kaba, Yohana Saucedo DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 1. Approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to develop a City of Austin Immigrant Affairs Office. The motion to approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to develop a City of Austin Immigrant Affairs Office was approved on a (7-0) vote. (COMMISSIONERS KEVIN COUNTIE, SHWETA PADMANABHA, off the dais or absent). There were no 1st or 2nd motions to approve. 2. Approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to Expand the Equity Mini Grant Funds to $600,000 in support of Immigrant Inclusion, Solidarity with Unhoused People, and for Anti-displacement Prevention Efforts. The motion to approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to Expand the Equity Mini Grant Funds to $600,000 in support of Immigrant Inclusion, Solidarity with Unhoused People, and for Anti-displacement Prevention Efforts was approved on a (7-0) vote. (COMMISSIONERS KEVIN COUNTIE, SHWETA PADMANABHA, off the dais or absent) There were no 1st or 2nd motions to approve. 3. Approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to increase funding for The Family Stabilization Grant Program to $3 Million and to retain its funding as part of the City’s base budget. 1 (COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS) MEETING MINUTES (15, MARCH, 2025) The motion to approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to increase funding for The Family Stabilization Grant Program to $3 Million and to retain its funding as part of the City’s base budget was approved on a (7-0) vote. (COMMISSIONERS KEVIN COUNTIE, SHWETA PADMANABHA, off the dais or absent) There were no 1st or 2nd motions to approve. Chair ORTEGA adjourned the meeting at 11:26 a.m. without objection. 2
REGULAR MEETING of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS APRIL 7, 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 March 3, 2. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs special called meeting on March 2025. 15, 2025. 3. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs special called meeting on March 29, 2025. STAFF BRIEFING 4. Briefing by Rocio Villalobos, Equity and Inclusion Program Manager - Immigrant Affairs, regarding general updates on immigrant affairs. 5. Briefing by Alejandra Mireles, Equity and Inclusion Program Coordinator – Equity Division, Office of Equity and Inclusion, regarding peer commissions currently conducting Quality of studies. Life DISCUSSION ITEMS 6. Discussion on next steps for the Quality-of-Life Study. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Discussion and approval for the Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ nomination and election 8. Discussion and approval for the Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ nomination and election for Chair. for Vice Chair. 9. Discussion and approval of working group to engage with the FY 2025-26 budget process, monitor its progress through Council, and gather feedback in preparation for developing FY 2027 budget recommendations. 10. Discussion and action on approving updates to the membership of Quality-of-Life Working 11. Discussion and approval of working group regarding U-Visa and T-Visa in collaboration with Group. Austin Police Department. 12. Discussion and action on approving membership of Commissioners and of community members—Karen Crawford, Krystal Gomez, and Jennifer Walker Gates—to join the working …
(COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS) MEETING MINUTES (3, MARCH, 2025) COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 3, MARCH, 2025 The COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS convened in a REGULAR meeting on 3, MARCH, 2025, at AUSTIN CITY HALL, W. 3rd ST, ROOM 1101 in Austin, Texas. Chair MELISSA ORTEGA called the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS Meeting to order at 6:44p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Melissa Ortega, Miriam Dorantes, Adrian De La Rosa, Azeem Edwin Aditi Joshi, Jeanne Canan Kaba, Yohana Saucedo Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely:, Jeanne Canan Kaba, Yohana Saucedo, Aditi Joshi DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs regular meeting on January 6, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of (1/6/2025) were approved on ADITI JOSHI’S motion, MIRIAM DORANTES’S second on a (7-0) vote. (KEVIN COUNTIE AND SHWETA PADMANABHA abstaining, off the dais or absent) STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding general updates on policies pertaining to the Immigrant Community. The presentation was made by Lieutenant Davis Christopher, Austin Police Department. 3. Staff briefing regarding the new citywide language access plan. The presentation was made by Houmma Garba, Language Access and Community Engagement Consultant from the Corporate Communications & Public Information Office. 4. Staff briefing regarding general updates on immigrant affairs. The presentation was made by Rocio Villalobos, Immigrant Affairs Program Manager at the Office of Equity and Inclusion. 5. Staff briefing regarding timeline and steps for Quality of Life Study. The presentation was made by by Alejandra Mireles, Equity and Inclusion Program Coordinator from (Equity Division) Office of Equity and Inclusion 1 (COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS) MEETING MINUTES (3, MARCH, 2025) PRESENTATION 6. Presentation was 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. Presentation was made by Rebecca Lightsey, Co-Executive Director of American Gateways. DISCUSSION ITEMS 7. Discussion of welcoming new commissioners to Commission on Immigrant Affairs. Chair Ortega welcomed new Commissioner Edwin to the Commission. Commissioner Edwin introduced himself and his work in the community. 8. Discussion of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ Draft Budget Recommendations for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. The Chair discussed the March 31st deadline for budget recommendations. Asked for other Commissioners to join drafting budget recommendations for FY25-26. …
(COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS) MEETING MINUTES (15, MARCH, 2025) COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES 15, MARCH, 2025 The COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS convened in a SPECIAL CALLED meeting on 15, MARCH, 2025, at PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER ROOMS #1401 & 1402, 6310 WILHELMINA DRIVE in Austin, Texas. Chair MELISSA ORTEGA called the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS Meeting to order at 11:16 a.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Melissa Ortega, Miriam Dorantes, Adrian De La Rosa Azeem Edwin Aditi Joshi, Jeanne Canan Kaba, Yohana Saucedo Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Adrian De La Rosa, Azeem Edwin, Jeanne Canan Kaba, Yohana Saucedo DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 1. Approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to develop a City of Austin Immigrant Affairs Office. The motion to approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to develop a City of Austin Immigrant Affairs Office was approved on a (7-0) vote. (COMMISSIONERS KEVIN COUNTIE, SHWETA PADMANABHA, off the dais or absent). There were no 1st or 2nd motions to approve. 2. Approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to Expand the Equity Mini Grant Funds to $600,000 in support of Immigrant Inclusion, Solidarity with Unhoused People, and for Anti-displacement Prevention Efforts. The motion to approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to Expand the Equity Mini Grant Funds to $600,000 in support of Immigrant Inclusion, Solidarity with Unhoused People, and for Anti-displacement Prevention Efforts was approved on a (7-0) vote. (COMMISSIONERS KEVIN COUNTIE, SHWETA PADMANABHA, off the dais or absent) There were no 1st or 2nd motions to approve. 3. Approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to increase funding for The Family Stabilization Grant Program to $3 Million and to retain its funding as part of the City’s base budget. 1 (COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS) MEETING MINUTES (15, MARCH, 2025) The motion to approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to increase funding for The Family Stabilization Grant Program to $3 Million and to retain its funding as part of the City’s base budget was approved on a (7-0) vote. (COMMISSIONERS KEVIN COUNTIE, SHWETA PADMANABHA, off the dais or absent) There were no 1st or 2nd motions to approve. Chair ORTEGA adjourned the meeting at 11:26 a.m. without objection. 2
(COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS) Meeting Minutes (29,MARCH, 2025) COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES 29, MARCH, 2025 The COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS convened in a SPECIAL CALLED meeting on 29, MARCH, 2025, at CITY OF AUSTIN PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER ROOMS #1401 & 1402 in Austin, Texas. Chair MELISSA ORTEGA called the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS Meeting to order at 9:48 a.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Melissa Ortega, Miriam Dorantes, Adrian De La Rosa, Azeem Edwin, Aditi Joshi, Jeanne Canan Kaba, Yohana Saucedo Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Aditi Joshi, Jeanne Canan Kaba, Yohana Saucedo, Miriam Dorantes, Adrian De La Rosa, Azeem Edwin DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 1. Approve FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to develop a City of Austin Immigrant Affairs Office. The motion to approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to develop a City of Austin Immigrant Affairs Office was approved on COMMISSIONER DORANTES’s motion and COMMISSIONER EDWIN’S second on a (7-0) vote. (COMMISSIONERS KEVIN COUNTIE, SHWETA PADMANABHA, off the dais or absent) 2. Approve FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to Expand the Equity Mini Grant Funds to $600,000 in support of Immigrant Inclusion, Solidarity with Unhoused People, and Anti- displacement Prevention Efforts. The motion to approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to Expand the Equity Mini Grant Funds to $600,000 in support of Immigrant Inclusion, Solidarity with Unhoused People, and Anti-displacement Prevention Efforts was approved on COMMISISONER (7-0) vote. EDWIN’S motion and COMMISSIONER JOSHI’S second on a (COMMISSIONERS KEVIN COUNTIE, SHWETA PADMANABHA, off the dais or absent) 3. Approve the FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to Maintain and Expand the Annual Contracts into a Five-Year Term for Austin Public Health Immigrant Legal Services. Tabled for April meeting. (COMMISSIONERS KEVIN COUNTIE, SHWETA PADMANABHA, off the dais or absent) 1 (COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS) Meeting Minutes (29,MARCH, 2025) 4. Approve FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to Expand Equity and Inclusion Trainings. The motion to approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to Expand Equity and Inclusion Trainings was and COMMISSIONER JOSHI’S second on a (7-0) vote. (COMMISSIONERS KEVIN COUNTIE, SHWETA PADMANABHA, off the dais or absent) on COMMISSIONER SAUCEDO’S motion approved 5. Approve the FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to Support Supplies for Strengthening Protections and Rights of Immigrant Students. The motion to approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to Support Supplies for Strengthening Protections and Rights of Immigrant Students was approved on COMMISSIONER DORANTES’S motion and COMMISSIONER JOSHI’S second on a (7-0) vote. (COMMISSIONERS KEVIN COUNTIE, SHWETA PADMANABHA, off the …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS MARCH 29th AT 9:30 A.M. CITY OF AUSTIN PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER ROOMS #1401 & 1402 6310 WILHELMINA DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 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 Aditi Joshi Bob Libal Jeanne “Canan” Kaba Meghna Roy Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Shweta Padmanabha Azeem Edwin Yohana Saucedo 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. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Office. 1. Approve FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to develop a City of Austin Immigrant Affairs 2. Approve FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to Expand the Equity Mini Grant Funds to $600,000 in support of Immigrant Inclusion, Solidarity with Unhoused People, and Anti- displacement Prevention Efforts. 3. Approve the FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to Maintain and Expand the Annual Contracts into a Five-Year Term for Austin Public Health Immigrant Legal Services. 4. Approve FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to Expand Equity and Inclusion Trainings. 5. Approve the FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to Support Supplies for Strengthening Protections and Rights of Immigrant Students. 6. Approve the FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to Allocate Funding for Printing and Distributing "Know Your Rights" Red Cards at Austin Public Library Locations. 7. Approve the FY 2025-26 Budget Recommendation to Increase Funding for The Family Stabilization Grant Program to $3 Million and Maintain its Funding as Part of the City’s Base Budget. 8. Approve the budget recommendation for reallocation of the Quality of Life Study funds for the FY 2025-26. 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 …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032901: Development of the Immigrant 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 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 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 5 Advancing Immigrant Incorporation in Austin, TX Report WHEREAS, the report …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032902: 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, …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032907: 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: 2025032901: Development of the Immigrant 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 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 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 5 Advancing Immigrant Incorporation in Austin, TX Report WHEREAS, the report …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032902: 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, …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032904: Budget Expand Equity and Inclusion Trainings. WHEREAS, the City of Austin continues to see an increase in reported hate crimes and hate incidents year to year since 2021; and WHEREAS, city initiatives around anti-hate currently are housed in a variety of different offices and departments, and WHEREAS, the We All Belong Campaign is housed in the Corporate Public Information Office, the Safe Place program is housed in the Austin Police Department, and Undoing Racism trainings are housed in the Office of Equity & Inclusion1; and WHEREAS, while each program has varying degrees of public engagement and participation, city staff and public citizens would benefit from expanded access and visibility about these services; and WHEREAS, some community members may not feel comfortable reporting acts of hate to the City of Austin or local law enforcement 2; and WHEREAS, the Equity Division advances its mission by hosting Undoing Racism in collaboration with The People’s Institute for Survival and Beyond; and WHEREAS, dismantling hate and bias in our community requires a collective effort and meaningful collaboration between the city, its staff, and residents; and WHEREAS, an addition of Bystander Intervention training would empower staff and community members with the skills to safely intervene and respond to instances of hate-driven discrimination or violence; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends adequate funding be allocated to Anti-hate campaigns and programs, creating a centralized hub where both staff and citizens can easily access information on reporting hate-based incidents, current program offerings, and available public trainings. THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Commission recommends expanding outreach efforts to engage a broader and more diverse audience. We urge the city council to invest in the expansion of Undoing Racism trainings for the general public, and to ensure that both city staff and community members have access to Bystander Intervention training. These efforts are critical to fostering a safer, more inclusive, and better-informed community. 1 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=427170 2 https://austin-against-hate-austin.hub.arcgis.com/ Date of Approval: __3/29/2025____________ Record of the vote: Unanimous Vote: 7-0 on Yohana Saucedo 1st and Aditi Joshi’s 2nd. For: Melissa Ortega (Chair), Adrian De La Rosa, Azeem Edwin, Canan Kaba, Miriam Dorantes (Vice Chair) Attest: _____Gunjen Mittal_____________ (Staff or board member can sign)
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032905: Providing Resources for Immigrant Students WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was established to advise the city council on matters of common concern to immigrants, particularly in the areas of health and human services, education, and the demographic makeup of the Austin immigrant community; and WHEREAS, recent tragic events, such as the suicide of Jocelynn Rojo-Carranza, an 11-year-old girl who was bullied over her family’s immigration status, highlight the severe and devastating impacts of immigration-related discrimination and the lack of adequate protections within schools; and WHEREAS, reports from immigrant families in Austin indicate that increased raids and threats of deportation have created a climate of fear, deterring families from seeking assistance, accessing education, or reporting incidents of violence or harassment for fear of being separated; and WHEREAS, immigrants in Austin, including students, face systemic challenges, bullying, harassment, and an overall lack of understanding about their rights and protections; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has a responsibility to ensure that all residents, irrespective of immigration status, have access to the resources and support they need to thrive and that our schools provide a safe environment where all children can learn without fear of discrimination or retaliation; and WHEREAS, access to information about immigration laws and rights continues to be a barrier for many immigrants and their families, exacerbating their vulnerability, fostering distrust of local institutions, and jeopardizing their constitutional due process rights; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs of the City of Austin recommends that the city council allocate $250,000 in funding to support supplies and materials necessary for the implementation of immigrant student protections, rights to education, and family support services. This funding will ensure: 1. Traditional and Digital Media Distribution of Know Your Rights Materials a) Production of multilingual Know Your Rights guides tailored for students, families, and educators. b) Distribution of materials across all public schools, libraries, and community centers across the city prioritizing areas with Title I schools and communities with high immigrant populations (materials include, but are not limited to, “Know Your Rights” cards and Family Preparedness one-pagers). c) Development of digital and print resources for easy access through the City of Austin website and social media channels. 2. Development of Toolkits a) Creation of toolkits that include training materials and engagement resources on immigration rights and protections in partnership with …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032906: Budget Recommendation Providing Funding for Printing and Distribution of "Know Your Rights" Red Cards at Austin Public Library Sites WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was established to advise the city council on matters of common concern to immigrants, particularly in the areas of health and human services, education, and the demographic makeup of the Austin immigrant community; and WHEREAS, public libraries serve as trusted and accessible community spaces where residents can receive critical information about their rights, particularly those related to immigration, law enforcement interactions, and workplace protections; and, WHEREAS, organizations such as the Immigrant Legal Resource Center and other advocacy groups have developed "Know Your Rights" red cards to help individuals understand their constitutional rights in various situations, including interactions with law enforcement and immigration officials; and, WHEREAS, ensuring that all Austin Public Library locations have printed "Know Your Rights" red cards available in multiple languages will empower community members with important legal information and contribute to greater public awareness and safety; and, WHEREAS, the costs associated with printing and distributing these materials include design, translation, printing, and distribution across all Austin Public Library branches; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Commission on Immigrant Affairs encourages the city council to allocate $25,000 for FY 2025–2026 budget to the Austin Public Library for the printing and distribution of "Know Your Rights" red cards at all library locations, ensuring that critical legal information is accessible to all community members. Date of Approval: __3/29/2025____________ Record of the vote: Unanimous Vote: 7-0 on Yohana Saucedo 1st and Aditi Joshi 2nd. For: Melissa Ortega (Chair), Adrian De La Rosa, Miriam Dorantes (Vice Chair), Canan Kaba, Yohana Saucedo Attest: _____Gunjen Mittal_____________ (Staff or board member can sign)
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032908: Reallocation of Quality-of-Life Study Funds to the FY 2025–2026 Budget WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was established to advise the city council on matters of common concern to immigrants, and WHEREAS, in the FY 2022–2023 budget, the city council approved $1.2 million for Quality-of-Life studies, to be distributed among five commissions, including the Commission on Immigrant Affairs; and WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was unable to meet to discuss the Quality-of-Life Study process due to an ongoing shortage of members and other contributing factors; and WHEREAS, the funds are still available and must be reallocated to the FY 2025–2026; and WHEREAS, the results of the Quality-of-Life study will provide up-to-date and accurate information, equipping and guiding the Commission on Immigrant Affairs, particularly with our policy and budget recommendations to city council, as well as improving outreach and engagement efforts; and WHEREAS, in a time of increasingly restrictive immigration policies, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs is committed to partnering with researchers who prioritize anti-racist, equity-based approaches and implement strong safeguards in data collection and analysis; and WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs has not had a Quality-of-Life study and at this time we have incomplete information about our immigrant communities, which affects our ability to support and serve them; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs encourages city council to direct the Budget Office to reallocate the funds provided for a Quality-of-life study on FY2022–2023 to FY2025–2026. Date of Approval: __3/29/2025____________ Record of the vote: Unanimous Vote: 7-0 on Miriam Dorantes (Vice Chair) 1st and Aditi Joshi’s 2nd. For: Melissa Ortega (Chair), Adrian De La Rosa, Azeem Edwin, Canan Kaba, Yohana Saucedo Attest: _____Gunjen Mittal_____________ (Staff or board member can sign)
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032907: 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: 2025032904: Budget Expand Equity and Inclusion Trainings. WHEREAS, the City of Austin continues to see an increase in reported hate crimes and hate incidents year to year since 2021; and WHEREAS, city initiatives around anti-hate currently are housed in a variety of different offices and departments, and WHEREAS, the We All Belong Campaign is housed in the Corporate Public Information Office, the Safe Place program is housed in the Austin Police Department, and Undoing Racism trainings are housed in the Office of Equity & Inclusion1; and WHEREAS, while each program has varying degrees of public engagement and participation, city staff and public citizens would benefit from expanded access and visibility about these services; and WHEREAS, some community members may not feel comfortable reporting acts of hate to the City of Austin or local law enforcement 2; and WHEREAS, the Equity Division advances its mission by hosting Undoing Racism in collaboration with The People’s Institute for Survival and Beyond; and WHEREAS, dismantling hate and bias in our community requires a collective effort and meaningful collaboration between the city, its staff, and residents; and WHEREAS, an addition of Bystander Intervention training would empower staff and community members with the skills to safely intervene and respond to instances of hate-driven discrimination or violence; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends adequate funding be allocated to Anti-hate campaigns and programs, creating a centralized hub where both staff and citizens can easily access information on reporting hate-based incidents, current program offerings, and available public trainings. THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Commission recommends expanding outreach efforts to engage a broader and more diverse audience. We urge the city council to invest in the expansion of Undoing Racism trainings for the general public, and to ensure that both city staff and community members have access to Bystander Intervention training. These efforts are critical to fostering a safer, more inclusive, and better-informed community. 1 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=427170 2 https://austin-against-hate-austin.hub.arcgis.com/ Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032908: Reallocation of Quality-of-Life Study Funds to the FY 2025–2026 Budget WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was established to advise the city council on matters of common concern to immigrants, and WHEREAS, in the FY 2022–2023 budget, the city council approved $1.2 million for Quality-of-Life studies, to be distributed among five commissions, including the Commission on Immigrant Affairs; and WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was unable to meet to discuss the Quality-of-Life Study process due to an ongoing shortage of members and other contributing factors; and WHEREAS, the funds are still available and must be reallocated to the FY 2025–2026; and WHEREAS, the results of the Quality-of-Life study will provide up-to-date and accurate information, equipping and guiding the Commission on Immigrant Affairs, particularly with our policy and budget recommendations to city council, as well as improving outreach and engagement efforts; and WHEREAS, in a time of increasingly restrictive immigration policies, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs is committed to partnering with researchers who prioritize anti-racist, equity-based approaches and implement strong safeguards in data collection and analysis; and WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs has not had a Quality-of-Life study and at this time we have incomplete information about our immigrant communities, which affects our ability to support and serve them; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs encourages city council to direct the Budget Office to reallocate the funds provided for a Quality-of-life study on FY2022–2023 to FY2025–2026. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032906: Budget Recommendation Providing Funding for Printing and Distribution of "Know Your Rights" Red Cards at Austin Public Library Sites WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was established to advise the city council on matters of common concern to immigrants, particularly in the areas of health and human services, education, and the demographic makeup of the Austin immigrant community; and WHEREAS, public libraries serve as trusted and accessible community spaces where residents can receive critical information about their rights, particularly those related to immigration, law enforcement interactions, and workplace protections; and, WHEREAS, organizations such as the Immigrant Legal Resource Center and other advocacy groups have developed "Know Your Rights" red cards to help individuals understand their constitutional rights in various situations, including interactions with law enforcement and immigration officials; and, WHEREAS, ensuring that all Austin Public Library locations have printed "Know Your Rights" red cards available in multiple languages will empower community members with important legal information and contribute to greater public awareness and safety; and, WHEREAS, the costs associated with printing and distributing these materials include design, translation, printing, and distribution across all Austin Public Library branches; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Commission on Immigrant Affairs encourages the city council to allocate $25,000 for FY 2025–2026 budget to the Austin Public Library for the printing and distribution of "Know Your Rights" red cards at all library locations, ensuring that critical legal information is accessible to all community members. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032905: Providing Resources for Immigrant Students WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was established to advise the city council on matters of common concern to immigrants, particularly in the areas of health and human services, education, and the demographic makeup of the Austin immigrant community; and WHEREAS, recent tragic events, such as the suicide of Jocelynn Rojo-Carranza, an 11-year-old girl who was bullied over her family’s immigration status, highlight the severe and devastating impacts of immigration-related discrimination and the lack of adequate protections within schools; and WHEREAS, reports from immigrant families in Austin indicate that increased raids and threats of deportation have created a climate of fear, deterring families from seeking assistance, accessing education, or reporting incidents of violence or harassment for fear of being separated; and WHEREAS, immigrants in Austin, including students, face systemic challenges, bullying, harassment, and an overall lack of understanding about their rights and protections; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has a responsibility to ensure that all residents, irrespective of immigration status, have access to the resources and support they need to thrive and that our schools provide a safe environment where all children can learn without fear of discrimination or retaliation; and WHEREAS, access to information about immigration laws and rights continues to be a barrier for many immigrants and their families, exacerbating their vulnerability, fostering distrust of local institutions, and jeopardizing their constitutional due process rights; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs of the City of Austin recommends that the city council allocate $250,000 in funding to support supplies and materials necessary for the implementation of immigrant student protections, rights to education, and family support services. This funding will ensure: 1. Traditional and Digital Media Distribution of Know Your Rights Materials a) Production of multilingual Know Your Rights guides tailored for students, families, and educators. b) Distribution of materials across all public schools, libraries, and community centers across the city prioritizing areas with Title I schools and communities with high immigrant populations (materials include, but are not limited to, “Know Your Rights” cards and Family Preparedness one-pagers). c) Development of digital and print resources for easy access through the City of Austin website and social media channels. 2. Development of Toolkits a) Creation of toolkits that include training materials and engagement resources on immigration rights and protections in partnership with …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS MARCH 15TH AT 11 A.M. CITY OF AUSTIN PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER ROOMS #1401 & 1402 6310 WILHELMINA DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 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 Aditi Joshi Bob Libal Jeanne “Canan” Kaba Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Shweta Padmanabha Azeem Edwin Yohana Saucedo Meghna Roy 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. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 1. 2. 3. Approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to develop a City of Austin Immigrant Affairs Office. Approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to Expand the Equity Mini Grant Funds to $600,000 in support of Immigrant Inclusion, Solidarity with Unhoused People, and for Anti-displacement Prevention Efforts. Approve FY26 Budget Recommendation to increase funding for The Family Stabilization Grant Program to $3 Million and to retain its funding as part of the City’s base budget. 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 AFFAIRS, please contact Gunjen Mittal at gunjen.mittal@austintexas.gov.
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 …
