BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Aging Recommendation Number: 20240312-009: Translation and Interpretation Services for Boards and Commissions WHEREAS, Imagine Austin is a 30-year plan that maps out a vision of Austin as a beacon of sustainability, social equity, and economic opportunity; where diversity and creativity are celebrated; where community needs and values are recognized; where leadership comes from its citizens; and where the necessities of life are affordable and accessible to all1; and WHEREAS, a City of Austin report identified that many non-English-speaking residents abstain from engaging in the community due to language barriers and the associated challenges with communicating2; and WHEREAS, a recent audit found the city is not adequately meeting the goals of the policy, established in 2014 to provide translation and interpretation services, intended to give people equitable access to programs and information, leaving people to try to navigate these systems alone3; and WHEREAS, according to City data at iSpeak Austin, 31% of Austinites speak a language other than English at home and 11.4% of Austinites speak English “less than very well”4; and WHEREAS, a recent experience by the Commission on Immigrant Affairs, while working to get live interpretation for a commissioner, highlighted concerns about the current funding practice(s) of language accessibility for Boards and Commissions to get these services in a timely fashion, as well as the support process for Commissioners with Limited English Proficiency who require live interpretation services during the application process, onboarding, training, and meetings; and WHEREAS, both the work of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs and the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission were both recently impacted, attempting to obtain these services for active commissioners. Even after services were initially provided, there were inconsistencies in the provision of these services; and WHEREAS, although the City of Austin’s language access program complies with Executive Order 13166 and other relevant regulations, City staff informed the Commission on Immigrant Affairs Chair that the 1 City Embarks on Community-Wide Effort to Update Imagine Austin | AustinTexas.gov 2 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/pio/document.cfm?id=367457 3 Austin is not doing enough to communicate with non-English speakers, audit finds | KUT Radio, Austin's NPR Station 4 iSpeak Austin | AustinTexas.gov 5 https://www.austintexas.gov/page/language-access-policy Administrative Bulletin on Language Access does not apply to Boards and Commissions, which appears to be inconsistent under "Applicability,” • "This administrative bulletin shall apply to all City of Austin departments, contractors, affiliates, and volunteers providing direct services, indirect services, and information …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Aging Recommendation Number: 20240312-009: Translation and Interpretation Services for Boards and Commissions WHEREAS, Imagine Austin is a 30-year plan that maps out a vision of Austin as a beacon of sustainability, social equity, and economic opportunity; where diversity and creativity are celebrated; where community needs and values are recognized; where leadership comes from its citizens; and where the necessities of life are affordable and accessible to all1; and WHEREAS, a City of Austin report identified that many non-English-speaking residents abstain from engaging in the community due to language barriers and the associated challenges with communicating2; and WHEREAS, a recent audit found the city is not adequately meeting the goals of the policy, established in 2014 to provide translation and interpretation services, intended to give people equitable access to programs and information, leaving people to try to navigate these systems alone3; and WHEREAS, according to City data at iSpeak Austin, 31% of Austinites speak a language other than English at home and 11.4% of Austinites speak English “less than very well”4; and WHEREAS, a recent experience by the Commission on Immigrant Affairs, while working to get live interpretation for a commissioner, highlighted concerns about the current funding practice(s) of language accessibility for Boards and Commissions to get these services in a timely fashion, as well as the support process for Commissioners with Limited English Proficiency who require live interpretation services during the application process, onboarding, training, and meetings; and WHEREAS, both the work of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs and the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission were both recently impacted, attempting to obtain these services for active commissioners. Even after services were initially provided, there were inconsistencies in the provision of these services; and WHEREAS, although the City of Austin’s language access program complies with Executive Order 13166 and other relevant regulations, City staff informed the Commission on Immigrant Affairs Chair that the 1 City Embarks on Community-Wide Effort to Update Imagine Austin | AustinTexas.gov 2 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/pio/document.cfm?id=367457 3 Austin is not doing enough to communicate with non-English speakers, audit finds | KUT Radio, Austin's NPR Station 4 iSpeak Austin | AustinTexas.gov 5 https://www.austintexas.gov/page/language-access-policy Administrative Bulletin on Language Access does not apply to Boards and Commissions, which appears to be inconsistent under "Applicability,” • "This administrative bulletin shall apply to all City of Austin departments, contractors, affiliates, and volunteers providing direct services, indirect services, and information …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Aging Recommendation Number: 20240312-13: Home Delivered Meals for Older Adults WHEREAS, in fiscal year 2023/2024 the City of Austin removed funding for home delivered meals from the Safety Net Funding; and WHEREAS, prior to that, the City of Austin had consistently funded home delivered meals for older adults and people with disabilities since the 1970’s; and WHEREAS, Austin’s older adult population represents 10.8% of the total population1 and the median age of Austin’s older adults is 72.7 years2; and WHEREAS, greater than 30% of Austin’s older adult population include groups that are historically underserved: • Asian older adults represent 7.4% of 105,467 Austin’s older adults, • Black older adults represent 8.6% of 105,467 Austin’s older adults, • Hispanic older adults represent 20.5% of 105,467 Austin’s older adults, • Non-Hispanic or White older adults represent 60.8% of 105,467 Austin’s older adults3; and WHEREAS, of Austin’s older adults, 27.6% are individuals living with a disability and 9.5% are living below poverty.4 WHEREAS, despite Austin’s increase in the older adult population, increasing at a growth rate of 64.7% between 2010 and 2020 (from 55,695 in 2010, or 7.0% of population to 91,733 in 2020, or 9.5% of the population)5 City funding of older adult programs is less than of other cities of comparable size; and 1 U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2022 1-year estimates and 2020 decennial census. 2 Ibid. 3 Ibid. 4 U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2022 1-year estimates 5 https://demographics-austin.hub.arcgis.com/apps/a4e31fc68d37449b8e3c044e249699bc/explore WHEREAS, people who are unable to prepare their own meals or are enduring economic hardships, home delivered meals are an upstream solution, helping them to stay in their homes, living with dignity and independence. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Commission on Aging encourages the Austin City Council to fund home delivered meals in the amount of $700,000. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: 10 to 0. Motioned by Commissioner Flatau, Seconded by Commissioner Anderson. Abstaining: Commissioners Bondi, Van de Putte. Attest: _____________________________________ (Chair) March 12, 2025.
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Aging Recommendation Number: (20250312-10): Increase Funding for Homeless Strategy Office WHEREAS, the City of Austin Demographer has provided information that the aging population in Austin is the fastest growing segment of our city, currently representing 10.8% of our population1; and WHEREAS, in 2024 over 27.6% of our unhomed population in Austin was 50 years of age or older2; and WHEREAS, homelessness decreases a person’s life expectancy and unhouse people over 50 tend to present as much older medically and have a greater need for social services than other unhomed populations3; and WHEREAS, while Austin leads the nation in new affordable housing construction4, in order to address the dynamic and multifaceted natures of poverty, homelessness, and housing instability as well as to accelerate access to concrete supports, dismantle systemic inequities, and mitigate barriers to healthy living, individuals and families, especially older adults and their caregivers with low incomes need access to safe, stable, and affordable housing bolstered by wraparound supportive services5; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Commission on Aging encourages the Austin City Council to approve additional funds and explore all available means to provide additional social services funding for the Homeless Strategy Office to allow them to better serve homeless people over 50 years of age in Austin. Date of Approval: ____________________________ Record of the vote: 11 to 0. Motioned by Commissioner Flatau, Seconded by Commissioner Van De Putte. 1 “Age of Change, Austin’s Transforming Demographics 2010-2010”, City of Austin Planning Department, Published September 2023 and Updated August 2024. 2 “State of the HRS, A Report on the State of the Homelessness Response System in Austin/Travis County,” ECHO, August 2024, p. 11. 3 “State of the HRS, A Report on the State of the Homelessness Response System in Austin/Travis County,” ECHO, August 2024, p. 11. 4 https://www.kut.org/housing/2025-02-18/austin-tx-affordable-housing-construction-study 5 https://acf.gov/ocs/programs/ahssd March 12, 2025. Attest: _____________________________________________ (Chair)
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Aging Recommendation Number: (20250312-11): Funds for Senior Transportation Programs WHEREAS, the City of Austin Demographer has provided information that the aging population in Austin is the fastest growing segment of our city, currently representing 10.8% of our population1; and WHEREAS, according to the National Aging and Disability Transportation Center, as the nation’s aging population continues to rise – with 1 in every 5 Americans expected to be 65+ by 2020 – the provision of safe and accessible transportation options remains a top concern of older adults, caregivers and the communities where they live2; and WHEREAS, older adults and those with a disability who cannot secure rides to social events can feel isolated from their communities, which puts them at risk for depression and cognitive decline3; and WHEREAS, according to City of Austin transportation data in 2022, less than 50% of our population has access to innovative public transit service or is within one quarter mile of regular fixed route transit4, lack of access is even more difficult for older adults and people with disabilities as they often need door to door services; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Commission on Aging encourages the Austin City Council to fund $250,000 in Austin Public Health’s Social Services grant funds annually specifically for older adult transportation programs, to insure our older adults and those with disabilities have access to medical appointments, food and necessities as well as social interaction to prevent isolation. 1 “Age of Change, Austin’s Transforming Demographics 2010-2010”, City of Austin Planning Department, Published September 2023 and Updated August 2024. 2 https://www.nadtc.org/about/transportation-aging-disability/unique-issues-related-to-older-adults-and- transportation/ 3 “How Access to Affordable Transportation Leads to Better Health Outcomes for Older Adults”, National Council on Aging, June 17, 2024. 4 https://data.austintexas.gov/Transportation-and-Mobility/M-C-3_Percentage-of-population-that-has-access-to- /p3t8-4eip Page 1 of 2 Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: 12 to 0. Motioned by Commissioner Anderson, Seconded by Commissioner Kareithi. Attest: _____________________________________________ (Chair Page 2 of 2 March, 12, 2025.)
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Aging Recommendation Number: (20250312-12): In Home Care for Older Adults WHEREAS, 9.5% of Austin’s population are 65 years of age or over (91,033) and 19.3% of Austin’s population are 55 years or over (185,570)1; and WHEREAS, most Americans want to age in their homes. In fact, in a survey from 2024, 75 percent of U.S. adults aged over 50 years said they would like to reside in their current residence for as long as possible2; and WHEREAS, in home care for older adults is an effective upstream solution for older adults, often preventing them from being unhoused. WHEREAS, in home care is typically less expensive than assisted living if the older adult needs 40 hours or less of paid home care each week3; and WHEREAS, nationwide over 3 million people received home health care in 20204; and WHEREAS, Austinites can expect to pay an average of $4,576 per month for home health care5; and WHEREAS, compared to the other three major Texas cities, the cost of home health care in Austin is higher6; and WHEREAS, Medicaid reimbursement for in home health care in Austin is $10.60 per hour, which is not a living wage; and WHEREAS, starting salary at McDonald’s in Austin is $11.00 per hour7; and 1 Austin Demographic Data Hub | Open Data | City of Austin Texas 2 Home care in the U.S. - Statistics & Facts | Statista 3 In-Home Care vs. Assisted Living Costs | Seniors Guide 4 FastStats - Home Health Care 5 Cost of Long Term Care by State | Cost of Care Report | Carescout 6 Home Care in Austin, TX | HomeCare.org NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Commission on Aging encourages the Austin City Council to fund and explore all available means to provide reimbursement for in home care for older adults in Austin, including but not limited to adding applicable coverage provisions on in home care to City employee assistance programs or insurance plans. _____________ Date of Approval: __ ______________ Record of the vote: 9 to 0. Motioned by Commissioner Flatau, Seconded by Commissioner Gloria Lugo. Abstaining: Commissioners Anderson, Bondi, Van de Putte. Attest: ___________________________ 7 McDonald's salaries in Austin, TX: How much does McDonald's pay? | Indeed.com March 12, 2025.(Chair)
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Aging Recommendation Number: (20250312-14): Native American & Indigenous Community Commission WHEREAS, out of the sixty-seven City of Austin Boards and Commissions, none are focused on representing the needs of Native Americans and Indigenous communities1; and WHEREAS, all the City of Austin land was originally populated by local tribes, particularly the Coahuiltecan peoples and later the Chickasaw, Cherokee, Comanche, Delaware, Lipan Apache and Tonkawa with the acknowledgement that many tribes, known and unknown have resided and migrated on these lands and region over time; and WHEREAS, the local group, Great Promise for Native Americans has identified local members of the Native American & Indigenous Community interested in serving on such a commission; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Commission on Aging encourages the Austin City Council to create a Native American & Indigenous Community Commission, comprised of eleven members for the purpose of advising and consulting with City Council on all matters that impact the Native American and Indigenous community, including preserving culture, economic development, education, and health & wellness. The commission shall evaluate and recommend programs, policies, and practices that create a positive impact; determine the needs of Native Americans and the Indigenous community in Austin and advise Council regarding these needs; and promote the contributions of Native Americans and the Indigenous community to the cultural, economic, and historical value of Austin. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Commission on Aging requests the Austin City Council to direct that commissioners are representatives from any of these groups, as well as federally and state recognized tribal members: • Great Promise for American Indians, • Central Texas Cherokee Township, • Chickasaw Community Council of Central Texas, • Native American HEART, and • Native American and Indigenous Collective. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Commission on Aging requests that the Austin City Council allows the commission to review its membership and community participation after the first 1 Boards and Commissions | AustinTexas.gov two years of operation and determine if additional representation from the Native American and Indigenous community groups is required. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: 12 to 0. Motioned by Commissioner Scott, Seconded by Commissioner Flatau. Attest: _____________________________________________ (Chair) March 12, 2025.
City of Austin Action Plan Community Needs Assessment Discussion on community needs and spending priorities for the FY 25-26 Action Plan for federal grants. Agenda Federal Grants Overview FY23-24 Goals, Outcomes & Impact Community Engagement Background Continuing the dialouge: FY25-26 Priorities The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) allocates entitlement funding to municipalities and state governments. The City of Austin applies for approximately $14 million in annual grant entitlements across four grants for affordable housing, community development, economic development, and public services. These grants are part of a 5-year cycle. Consolidated Plan (5-Year) Allocates federal resources to housing and community development Action Plan (1-Year) Summarizes actions, activities and federal/non- federal resources in the Consolidated Plan Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) (1-Year) End-of-year report on progress toward consolidated plan 3 HUD Funding Sources 4 Programs & Activities Overview FY 23-24 5 Goals & Outcomes FY 23-24 6 Who Did We Serve? Fiscal Year 22-23 Snapshot 1,856 # households served FY 23-24 Source: City of Austin FY 23-24 CAPER Who Did We Serve? Fiscal Year 22-23 Snapshot 1,856 # households served FY 23-24 Source: City of Austin FY 23-24 CAPER Who Did We Serve? Fiscal Year 22-23 Snapshot 2024 Median Income for family of 4: $126,000 Source: City of Austin FY 23-24 CAPER How do we fund our programs? HUD Annual Entitlement Grants Housing Trust Fund Approved City Bonds City Operating Budget Project Connect Anti-Displacement Funds 2024 Community Needs Assessment Feedback immediate help stability trust building wealth access 11 2024 Community Needs Assessment Feedback from Boards & Commissions Commission on Aging The commissioners expressed interest in knowing more about the number of seniors being served by all HUD and housing programs and the percentage of funding going toward seniors. Transparency & Accountability What is the total funding for housing programs? What has changed since you came to us last? How are you holding partners accountable? Outreach and Engagement How are you reaching our community? Data and Impact How great is the need? How are you serving our community? Funding Possibilities Programs and projects specific to each community Disappointment and Distrust More questions than input Calls for accountability 2024 Community Needs Assessment Feedback Data and Impact Transparency Progress and Commitments New policy and data team in Housing Department New Housing Hub on Speak Up Austin, with impact of feedback as core component (launching in early April!) Outreach to vulnerable …
Commission on Aging Regular Meeting Minutes Wednesday, March 12th, 2025 The Commission on Aging convened in a regular meeting at City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room, 301 W 2nd St, Austin, Texas, 78701 and remotely. Chair Bondi called the Commission on Aging Meeting to order at 12:05pm. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Richard Bondi, Vice Chair Gretchen Flatau, Austin Adams, Faith Lane, Gloria Lugo, Henry Van de Putte, Jacqueline Angel, Jennifer Scott, Martin Kareithi, Suzanne Anderson, and Teresa Ferguson. Board Members/Commissioners not in Attendance: Marianna Gonzalez and Preston Tyree PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the February 12th, 2025, regular Commission on Aging Meeting. The minutes from the meeting of February 12th, 2025, were approved by Vice-Chair Flatau’s motion, Commissioner Anderson second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Gonzalez, Tyree, Fred Lugo, Scott, and Van de Putte were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS/ANNOUNCEMENTS 2. Staff Briefing regarding Age-Friendly Austin including update on the Age Friendly Austin Action Plan and centralized guidance on communicating with older adults. Briefing by: Nicole Howe, Age Friendly Program Coordinator and Halana Kaleel, Public Health Community Engagement Specialist, Austin Public Health. • AF Program Coordinator Nicole Howe provided an update on the AF Austin Action Plan including upcoming initiatives and activities. • PH Community Engagement Specialist Halana Kaleel will provide update at next meeting. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Update on the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) initiatives as they relate to the Commission on Aging including a recap on presentations received by the JIC on bonds from Austin Public Health and a presentation from the City of Austin Budget Office. • Chair Bondi provided an overview of two presentations received by the JIC at their last meeting. 4. Discussion on the Commission on Aging 2025 Community Service Awards. • Nomination form has been distributed and will close at the end of March. • Commissioners will take action at their April 2025 meeting. 5. Discussion on tracking of Texas Legislative Items that impact older adults. 1 • Chair Bondi provided an update on the tracking spreadsheet being used to track Texas Legislative Items impacting older adults and other communities. 6. Discussion on Age Friendly Initiatives prioritized by the Commission on Aging. • Chair Bondi gave update on items being prioritized over the next year for the AFA Action Plan. 7. Update on the Older Adults Quality of Life Study, Nirali Thakkar, Cortez Consulting. • Nirali Thakkar …
3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. REGULAR MEETING OF THE COMMISSION ON AGING FEBRUARY 12TH, 2025 AT NOON CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 301 W 2ND ST AUSTIN, TEXAS, 78701 Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Halana Kaleel, 512- 972-5019, Halana.Kaleel@austintexas.gov. CURRENT MEMBERS: Richard Bondi, Chair Gretchen Flatau, Vice-Chair Mariana Gonzalez Austin Adams Suzanne Anderson Jacqueline Angel Jennifer Scott Preston Tyree Henry Van de Putte Vacancies: Mayor’s Office, District 6 Martin Kareithi Fred Lugo Gloria Lugo Teresa Ferguson AGENDA CALL TO ORDER/ATTENDANCE PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Approve the minutes of the January 8th, 2025, regular Commission on Aging Meeting. Discussion and review of Commission on Aging expiring terms (February 28th, 2025), the 60- day holdover period, and reapplying with appointing bodies for continued service. Discussion and update on communications with the City of Buda’s Commission on Aging. Update on the Joint Inclusion Committee initiatives as it relates to the Commission on Aging. Request for and discussion on potential budget recommendations from the Commission on Aging for the FY26 City of Austin Budget. Update on the Commission on Aging 2025 Community Service Awards. Discussion and update on collaboration with Austin Indigenous groups about input into City of Austin processes. Update on the outreach and timeline on the Quality of Life Aging Study, Nirali Thakkar, MSSW-MPH, Engagement Consultant, Cortez Consulting. State Legislative Update on items related to Older Adults. Discussion on current status of the Age Friendly Austin Action Plan. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 11. Discussion and possible action on the 2025 Older American’s Month Proclamation language and development. Discussion and possible action on a budget recommendation to include an older adult focus at City Job Fairs. Discussion and possible action on a budget recommendation for translation services funding for Boards and Commissions. Discussion and possible action on a budget recommendation for funding prepared meals for older adults. Discussion and possible action on a budget recommendation for Pedestrian Safety Initiatives. STAFF BRIEFINGS/ANNOUNCEMENTS 16. Staff Briefing regarding Age-Friendly Austin including update …
Commission on Aging Regular Meeting Minutes Wednesday, January 8th, 2025 The Commission on Aging convened in a regular meeting at City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room, 301 W 2nd St, Austin, Texas, 78701 and remotely. Chair Bondi called the Commission on Aging Meeting to order at 12:00pm. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Richard Bondi, Vice Chair Gretchen Flatau, Austin Adams, Gloria Lugo, Henry Van de Putte, Jacqueline Angel, Jennifer Scott, Martin Kareithi, Preston Tyree, Suzanne Anderson, Teresa Ferguson, and Tina Rodriquez. Board Members/Commissioners not in Attendance: Marianna Gonzalez PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the December 11th, 2024, regular Commission on Aging Meeting. • The minutes from the meeting of December 11th, 2024, were approved by Commissioner Scott’s motion, Commissioner Angel’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioners Adams, Anderson, and Gonzalez were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion and review of Commission on Aging expiring terms (February 28th, 2025), the 60-day holdover period, and reapplying with appointing bodies for continued service. • Commissioners were reminded of upcoming expiring terms, the 60-day holdover period, and next steps if they would like to continue service on the Commission on Aging. 3. Discussion and update on the Age Friendly Austin Action Plan. • Brief update was provided on the plan, including that a draft was shared with the commissioners. 4. Discussion and update on communications with the City of Buda’s Commission on Aging. • Commissioners Adams and Anderson entered the dais. • Chair Bondi has been leading conversations with the City of Buda’s Commission on Aging, including opportunities for alignment and collaboration. 5. Update on the Joint Inclusion Committee’s process for City of Austin FY26 Budget recommendations as it relates to the Commission on Aging. 1 • The Joint Inclusion Committee will be receiving a presentation from the City of Austin Housing Department. Chair Bondi will provide update at the next meeting to the commissioners. 6. Request for and discussion on potential budget recommendations from the Commission on Aging for the FY26 City of Austin Budget. • Commissioners were asked to submit budget recommendations in a timely manner. • Commissioners will be taking action on budget recommendations at their February and March meetings. STAFF BRIEFINGS/ANNOUNCEMENTS 7. Staff Briefing regarding Age-Friendly Austin including update on the Age Friendly Austin Action Plan Update, Nicole Howe, Age Friendly Program Coordinator, Austin Public Health. • Program Coordinator Nicole Howe gave an update …
Older Americans Month 2024 Proposed Mayor’s Proclamation Be it known that Whereas, Older Americans Month is observed nationally to encourage older adults to CONNECT through social participation, CREATE by engaging in activities that promote healthy learning, and CONTRIBUTE time, talent, and life experience to others; and Whereas, The 2024 theme for Older Americans Month is Powered by Connection, which recognizes the profound impact that meaningful relationships and social connections have on health and wellbeing; and Whereas, Austin includes a growing number of Older Americans who enrich our community through their strength, wisdom, and diverse life experiences, and the City of Austin is committed to acknowledging their many valuable contributions to society; and Whereas, The City of Austin’s Age-Friendly Action Plan strives to make our city more equitable for older adults with strategies to encourage them to be involved in the community, and efforts towards providing the services and support older Americans need to thrive and live independently for as long as possible; and Whereas, The City of Austin’s Age-Friendly Action Plan and the Commission on Aging strive to explore the vital role that connectedness plays in supporting independence and aging in place by combatting isolation, loneliness, and other issues in alignment with the theme of Older Americans Month 2024; and Whereas, The City of Austin recognizes the importance of bringing together all generations to engage in activities that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being for the benefit of all, and recognizes that communities benefit when people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds are welcomed, included, and supported; Now, therefore, I, Kirk Watson, Mayor of the City of Austin, Texas do hereby proclaim The Month of May 2024 as Older Americans Month in Austin.
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Aging Recommendation Number: 20240212XXX: Older Adult Focus at City Job Fairs WHEREAS, the City of Austin will hold the 14th Annual City of Austin Career Expo on April 2, 2025, designed to facilitate employer hiring needs and the employment needs of job seekers1; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin regularly holds additional job fair(s) through the year2; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin regularly holds one 50+ Community Job Fair per year that includes employers that primarily specialize in providing jobs and resources for individuals who are over the age of 503 and are marketed to older adults who choose to or need to continue working past traditional retirement age; and WHEREAS, Austin’s older adult population represents 10.8% of the total population4; and WHEREAS, older adults job seekers frequently face ageism5,6 and 78% of people between the ages of 40 and 65 said they had seen age discrimination in the workplace7; and WHEREAS, older adult job seekers re-entering the workforce may be out of touch with the latest technology; and WHEREAS, AARP is one of numerous sources advising unique approaches for older adults seeking employment8,9 ;and other 1 City of Austin Career Expo | AustinTexas.gov 2 City of Austin Fair Chance Hiring Job Fair on July 25 | AustinTexas.gov 3 City of Austin 50+ Community Job Fair on September 25 | AustinTexas.gov 4 U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2022 1-year estimates and 2020 decennial census. 5 15 Frustrating Reasons Why People Over 50 Struggle to Find Jobs - Housely 6 https://www.forbes.com/sites/robinryan/2024/04/16/how-to-find-a-job-if-you-are-55-or-older/ 7 The 5 Secrets for Getting Hired After 50 8 The 5 Secrets for Getting Hired After 50 9 How To Find A Job If You Are 55 Or Older NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Commission on Aging encourages the Austin City Council to direct the City to add one or two speakers to each job fair that would cover informational topics, such as how to: • repurpose a long career to pursue new interests, • navigate new technology involved in résumé submittal, and • maintain self-confidence during the job search. The Commission on Aging can research local professionals to assist with speaker placement if needed. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Aging Recommendation Number: 20240212XXX: Interpretation Services for Boards and Commissions WHEREAS, Imagine Austin is a 30-year plan that maps out a vision of Austin as a beacon of sustainability, social equity, and economic opportunity; where diversity and creativity are celebrated; where community needs and values are recognized; where leadership comes from its citizens; and where the necessities of life are affordable and accessible to all1; and WHEREAS, a City of Austin report identified that many non-English-speaking residents abstain from engaging in the community due to language barriers and the associated challenges with communicating2; and WHEREAS, a recent audit found the city is not adequately meeting the goals of the policy, established in 2014 to provide translation and interpretation services, intended to give people equitable access to programs and information, leaving people to try to navigate these systems alone3; and WHEREAS, according to City data at iSpeak Austin, 31% of Austinites speak a language other than English at home and 11.4% of Austinites speak English “less than very well”4; and WHEREAS, recently a commissioner on the Commission on Immigrant Affairs required live interpretation services at commission meetings. While these services were eventually arranged, City staff repeatedly informed the staff liaison and commissioners there was nothing in the City Code requiring interpretation services for commissioners, which delayed the request and even after services were established they were told there was no established funding for interpretation services for commissioners and that City staff weren’t really set up to provide the service; and WHEREAS, Austinites with limited English proficiency from effective commission service does not align with social equity vision put forth in Imagine Austin; 1 City Embarks on Community-Wide Effort to Update Imagine Austin | AustinTexas.gov 2 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/pio/document.cfm?id=367457 3 Austin is not doing enough to communicate with non-English speakers, audit finds | KUT Radio, Austin's NPR Station 4 iSpeak Austin | AustinTexas.gov NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Commission on Aging encourages the Austin City Council to direct the City to establish a process to provide interpretation services to commissioners, to be made available to existing commissioners and offer such services on the application for new commissioners and approve appropriate funding. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
Commission on Aging Winter Weather Preparedness Sara Henry – Interim Chief Administrative Officer February 12, 2025 ReadyCentralTexas.org Winter Weather Preparedness: Agenda • Citywide Preparation Highlights Across the Enterprise • Cold Weather Shelters & Activation Triggers • Winter Shelter Plans • Warming Centers • Emergency Public Information Resources & EOC Operations • Council Communication: News Flashes & Liaison Officer Citywide Preparation Highlights Departments are preparing equipment, supplies, and staff for cold weather. Transportation and Public Works – conducted a field exercise to drive prescribed routes for road treatment, traffic signal exercise, ordered de-icing materials. Austin Energy – conducted an incident command exercise for winter weather preparation in October Austin Public Libraries – Pre-identified Warming Center locations for extended hours Fleet Services – Trained staff to properly apply chains to vehicle tires Parks and Recreation Department – coordinating mass care sites with HSEM + staging Mission Ready Packages HSEM Offered Six (6) Winter Weather Preparedness Trainings in November & December • Winter Weather Plan Review • Winter Weather Tabletop Exercise • • • • Liaison Officer training for CMO Advisors Public Information EOC Training for all City communication positions Public Information Lead PIO Training Public Information EOC Tabletop Exercise for Winter Weather Roster Cold Weather Shelters & Activation Triggers Cold Weather Shelters are for life safety & are primarily used by people experiencing homelessness. No one will be turned away. • Updated and simplified CWS Threshold for Activation: 35°F or lower using NWS Camp Mabry location Intake centralized at One Texas Center Shelter guests are bussed to shelter via CapMetro • Homeless Strategy Office (HSO) contracted with vendor to provide shelter to the first 300 people HSEM to coordinate surge operations over 300 people • Meals for shelters Coordinating with Building Services and APD for shelter security Coordinating with Animal Services for sheltering service animals • Distributing supplies to shelter locations (mats and blankets) • • • • Winter Shelter Plans NEW Mass Care & Shelter Division Winter 2024-2025 Shelter Management Strategy • Use City-owned facilities • Utilize City-owned Mission Ready Packages (MRP) which are pre-deployed at 9 locations with 72 hours of supplies • Utilize reassigned city staff as shelter managers and support staff • Offer training for shelter managers + emotional intelligence de-escalation training with HSO and NGO partners Warming Centers Warming Centers are available at City Facilities, including Libraries and Parks & Recreation Centers • Open during normal …
Kaleel, Halana From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: Importance: High Kaleel, Halana Wednesday, January 29, 2025 4:08 PM Age Friendly Austin Dodo, Kodjo; Howe, Nicole; Aung, Yhun; Sperling, Ryan; Mireles, Alejandra Important Information Regarding Commission on Aging Terms Dear Commissioners, This email provides an update on upcoming expiring terms for the Commission on Aging. Expiring Terms: Several terms are expiring on February 28, 2025. The City Council is actively working to address all vacancies and reappointments. Important Reminders: Holdover Period: City Code allows current members to continue serving until a new member is appointed or up to 60 days after their term expires. Maximum Years of Service: The online system does not track the 8-year maximum service limit. This is tracked manually by the Office of the City Clerk (OCC). If you have served continuously since 2017, your term will expire regardless of what the online roster indicates. Council action can grant waivers to serve beyond 8 consecutive years. Reappointments: If you are reappointed, you may serve uninterrupted. However, you must complete refresher training and sign a new Oath of Office within 90 days of reappointment. New Members: New members must complete required training and sign an Oath of Office and Acknowledgment before serving. The OCC will notify me when a new member is eligible to begin service. Until then, please do not contact new members. OCC Workload: The OCC is currently managing the transition for over 400 board and commission members. Please be patient as they complete this process. Interested in Continuing Your Service? If your term is expiring and you are interested in continuing your service, please ensure you have a current online application and have contacted your appointing Council member. Thank you for your service to the Commission on Aging. Sincerely, Halana Kaleel Staff Liaison Commission on Aging 1 Halana Kaleel Pronouns: She, Her, Hers Public Health Community Engagement Specialist Planning and Evaluation Unit Health Equity and Community Engagement Division Austin Public Health O: (512) 972-5019 C: (512) 779-1162 Working Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30am-5:30pm 2
Kaleel, Halana From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: Follow Up Flag: Flag Status: Follow up Flagged Kaleel, Halana on behalf of Age Friendly Austin Tuesday, February 11, 2025 6:41 PM Kaleel, Halana Howe, Nicole; LaFuente, Laura; Dodo, Kodjo; Aung, Yhun; Sperling, Ryan; Mireles, Alejandra; APH Planning & Evaluation Nominations Open for the Commission on Aging Community Service Awards! Hello, The Commission on Aging is pleased to announce that nominations are now being accepted for the annual Community Service Awards! These awards recognize individuals dedicated to improving age- related services and advocating for older Austinites. The Commission on Aging is seeking nominations for two categories: Professional in Aging Services: Recognizing outstanding professionals in the field. Community Advocate or Volunteer: Honoring dedicated community members making a The Commission on Aging will select the recipients, who will be honored at the May Commission on Aging Meeting. This is an honorary award, no monetary prize is attached. Who Can Be Nominated? Nominees must meet the following criteria: Live or work in Austin. Cannot be a previous recipient of this award. Current Commission on Aging members, staff liaisons, and Age Friendly Action staff are difference. ineligible. How to Nominate: Anyone may submit a nomination! To nominate an individual who has demonstrated exceptional service to older adults and a commitment to building a strong, healthy, and happy aging community, please complete the nomination form: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CoACSA Nomination Period: Nominations will be accepted throughout February and March. The Commission on Aging will then vote on the recipients at their April meeting. Deadline: Please submit your completed nomination form by end of day March 31st, 2025. We encourage you to submit your nominations early! Let's celebrate the individuals who are making a positive impact on the lives of older Austinites. Sincerely, 1 Halana Kaleel Commission on Aging Staff Liaison Halana Kaleel Pronouns: She, Her, Hers Public Health Community Engagement Specialist Planning and Evaluation Unit Health Equity and Community Engagement Division Austin Public Health O: (512) 972-5019 C: (512) 779-1162 Working Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30am-5:30pm 2
Quality of Life Study on Aging Update to the Commission on Aging FEBRUARY 12, 2025 OUTREACH AND ENGAGEMENT PHOTOVOICE & SURVEY E-NEWSLETTER WHAT’S COMING? ECHO ● Cortez Consulting sent ● Broadening outreach to 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. AGE of Central Texas Alzheimer’s Association AACHI (Austin Asian Community Health Initiative) AISD Interfaith Action of Central Texas out a newsletter to all existing community partners and those we would like to work with in the upcoming engagement. ● The next issue will go out after focus groups conclude. City of Austin sites for survey and photovoice to expand community outreach to engage in the study. FOCUS GROUPS (Confirmed) 1. Foundation Communities (3 locations) 2. Austin Vietnamese Senior Association and South Asian International Volunteer Association 3. Rainbow Connections ATX and Golden Generation Austin Jewish Community Center Lyons Gardens and Golden Rollers Austin Caregiving Cafe Meals on Wheels 4. 5. 6. 7. ENGAGEMENT TIMELINE OUTREACH JANUARY-FEBRUARY Cortez Consulting hosted nine (9) informational sessions, meeting about ~120 individuals. SURVEY AND PHOTOVOICE MAY-JULY Distribution of survey and collection of photovoice with the aim for a display across Austin at public libraries. 2025 FOCUS GROUPS FEBRUARY-MARCH 8 focus groups are scheduled, 2-4 pending. Research team will use data to inform the creation of survey. Thank you!
Agenda Item 9: State Legislative Update on items related to Older Adults. Information provided by: Juanita Jackson, MPA, Business Process Consultant, Austin Public Health. Relating to committing the criminal offense of endangering a child, elderly individual, or disabled individual by engaging in certain conduct involving a controlled substance listed in Penalty Group 1-B of the Texas Controlled Substances Act. SB 1234 by Hancock, Identical, 02/11/2025 S Filed Author: Capriglione 11/12/2024 H Filed HB 166 Last Action: Caption Version: Introduced Caption: Companion: Author: Bernal 11/12/2024 H Filed HB 249 Last Action: Caption Version: Introduced Caption: Companion: Author: Bell, Cecil 11/12/2024 H Filed HB 382 Last Action: Caption Version: Introduced Caption: Companion: Author: Bucy 11/12/2024 H Filed HB 417 Last Action: Caption Version: Introduced Caption: Relating to installment payments of ad valorem taxes imposed on residence homesteads in certain counties. N/A Relating to an exemption from ad valorem taxation of the total appraised value of the residence homesteads of certain elderly persons and their surviving spouses. N/A Relating to early voting by mail by any qualified voter and to the repeal of certain criminal offenses concerning the solicitation and distribution of an application to vote by mail. Agenda Item 9: State Legislative Update on items related to Older Adults. Information provided by: Juanita Jackson, MPA, Business Process Consultant, Austin Public Health. Companion: SB 145 by Menéndez | et al., Identical, 02/03/2025 S Referred to State Affairs HB 628 by Meza, Duplicate, 11/12/2024 H Filed Author: Lopez, Ray 11/12/2024 H Filed HB 434 Last Action: Caption Version: Introduced Caption: Companion: Relating to creating a reimbursement program to reimburse certain supplemental nutrition assistance program recipients for the cost of certain food delivery service fees. SB 770 by Menéndez, Identical, 02/07/2025 S Referred to Health & Human Services Author: Schofield 11/12/2024 H Filed HB 455 Last Action: Caption Version: Introduced Caption: Companion: Author: Gervin-Hawkins 11/12/2024 H Filed HB 544 Last Action: Caption Version: Introduced Caption: Companion: HB 628 Last Action: Author: Meza 11/12/2024 H Filed Relating to the establishment of a limitation on the total amount of ad valorem taxes that certain taxing units may impose on the residence homesteads of individuals who are disabled or elderly and their surviving spouses. HB 1829 by Shaheen, Duplicate, 01/13/2025 H Filed Relating to the imposition of consecutive sentences for more than one criminal offense of injury to a child, elderly individual, or disabled individual arising out of …
