REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE COMMISSION FOR WOMEN Wednesday, February 5, 2025, 12:00 PM Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room, 1101 301 West 2nd Street Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Commission for Women 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 Christi Vitela, 512- 974-2792, christi.vitela@austintexas.gov. Diana Melendez Pam Rattan Katrina Scheihing Josephine Serrata Fernanda Veloz Salas CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Jocelyn Tau, Chair Becky Bullard, Vice Chair Rebecca Austen Vanessa Bissereth Julie Glasser Angela Harris CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first ten speakers signed up prior 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 for Women regular meeting on January 8, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS Committee. 2. Update from the Joint Inclusion representative on the recent work of the Joint Inclusion 3. Discussion of possible FY26 draft budget recommendations and formation of a Budget Working Group to research and write budget recommendations. 4. Collective Sex Crimes Response Model (CSCRM) Working Group Q4 2024 progress update, including overview of project management dashboard and burndown timelines, project scope changes, challenges, and risks. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS WORKING GROUP UPDATES FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Christi Vitela at the Office of the City Clerk Department at 512-974-2792, or email christi.vitela@austintexas.gov, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Commission for Women, please contact Christi Vitela at the Office of the City Clerk Department at 512-974-2792, or email christi.vitela@austintexas.gov.
Commission for Women Meeting Minutes Wednesday, January 8, 2025 COMMISSION FOR WOMEN Wednesday, January 8, 2025 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The Commission for Women convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St, Austin, Texas, Chambers, Room 1001. Chair Tau called the Commission for Women Meeting to order at 12:05 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Jocelyn Tau, Chair Angela Harris Becky Bullard, Vice Chair Rebecca Austen Diana Melendez Katrina Scheihing Fernanda Veloz-Salas PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission for Women regular meeting on December 4, 2024. The minutes from the meeting on December 4, 2024, were approved on Chair Tau’s motion and Commissioner Harris’ second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Bissereth, Glasser, Rattan, and Serrata were absent. 1 Commission for Women Meeting Minutes Wednesday, January 8, 2025 STAFF BRIEFING DISCUSSION ITEM 2. Staff briefing regarding the City of Austin emergency language access plan from the Communications and Public Information Office and the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. The presentation was made by Marion Sanchez, Community Outreach and Engagement Corporate Manager, Communications and Public Information Office; Houmma Garba, Language Access and Community Engagement Consultant – Corporate, Communications and Public Information Office; and David Alcorta, Community Engagement Specialist- Language Access, Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. 3. Update from the Joint Inclusion representative on the recent work of the Joint Inclusion Committee. The motion to postpone the item was approved on Commissioner Melendez’s motion, Vice Chair Bullard’s second and approved on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Bissereth, Glasser, Rattan, and Serrata were absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve a primary and secondary representative to the Joint Inclusion Committee. The motion to approve Commissioner Melendez as the primary representative and Vice Chair Bullard as the secondary representative to the Joint Inclusion Committee was approved on Chair Tau’s motion, Commissioner Harris’ second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Bissereth, Glasser, Rattan, and Serrata were absent. 5. Approve additional members to the CSCRM Working Group. Discussed. No action taken. None FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT Chair Tau adjourned the meeting at 12:50 p.m. without objection. 2
Collective Sex Crimes Response Model (CSCRM) Project – Q4 2024 Update Austin Police Department General Project Updates • New scope addition: • 15.20 The CSCRM Project will adopt the OVW Abby Honold Grant into its scope via the Training Workgroup. • OVW Abby Honold Grant is positioned to support several of the Training WG scope items. • Training WG scope will extend to match the timeline of the grant (Sep 2027). • Awareness of CSCRM is spreading: • Fort Worth PD Site Visit (Dec 2024) • Presentation Requests (Jan 2025): • Office of the Texas Attorney General, Crime Victim Services Division Conference • Office of the Texas Governor, Sexual Assault Survivor’s Task Force • New APD leaders have been briefed on CSCRM Project. • 2021-2022 Case Review final report is scheduled for release in January 2025. • The following will operate outside of CSCRM scope: • 2021-2022 Case Review remediation efforts (in progress) • 2023-2024 Case Review (in progress) Q4 2024 2 Dashboard Status – Q4 2024 Summary: • Complete = 26% (32 Items) • In Progress = 59% (73 Items) • Not Started = 15% (18 Items) Q4 2024 *Note: Items listed as “Not Started” have not yet been assessed by the multi-disciplinary Workgroup, however improvements may have already been initiated and/or implemented by APD independently. 3 3 Burndown Timeline – Q4 2024 • Timeline estimates for each element of scope are being tracked by quarter. • Timelines may be impacted by leadership transitions, funding, project team availability, and unforeseen constraints. • Training WG scope has been extended to Q3 2027. All other scope remains targeted for completion by Q4 2025. We are Here Q4 2024 4 Project Challenges & Risks • OVW Abby Honold Grant is lacking clarity. We are preparing CSCRM to operate on a ‘learn-as-we-go’ approach. • Capacity constraints limiting the fulfillment of forensic exams in the Austin/Travis County area remain as a Risk. APD contract with SAFE is currently under review. • Data hygiene practices throughout APD need to remain a focus for 2025. • Council Member Alison Alter’s term ended in 2024. She was the primary champion for the CSCRM Project on City Council. • Changes are expected with new leadership at the APD and City level. Impact to CSCRM is currently unclear. • On-going: • The majority of SCU detectives have limited experience in sex crimes. Building experience and training will be key. …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE COMMISSION FOR WOMEN Wednesday, January 8, 2025, 12:00 PM Austin City Hall, Chambers, Room 1001 301 West 2nd Street Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Commission for Women 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 Christi Vitela, 512- 974-2792, christi.vitela@austintexas.gov. Diana Melendez Pam Rattan Katrina Scheihing Josephine Serrata Maria Veloz Salas CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Jocelyn Tau, Chair Becky Bullard, Vice Chair Rebecca Austen Vanessa Bissereth Julie Glasser Angela Harris CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first ten speakers signed up prior 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 for Women regular meeting on December 4, 2024. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding the City of Austin emergency language access plan from the Communications and Public Information Office and the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. DISCUSSION ITEM Committee. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Update from the Joint Inclusion representative on the recent work of the Joint Inclusion 4. Approve a primary and secondary representative to the Joint Inclusion Committee. 5. Approve additional members to the CSCRM Working Group. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Christi Vitela at the Office of the City Clerk Department at 512-974-2792, or email christi.vitela@austintexas.gov, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Commission for Women, please contact Christi Vitela at the Office of the City Clerk Department at 512-974-2792, or email christi.vitela@austintexas.gov.
Commission for Women Meeting Minutes Wednesday, December 4, 2024 Commission for Women REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, December 4, 2024 The Commission for Women convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St, Austin, Texas, Boards and Commissions Room. Chair Tau called the Commission for Women Meeting to order at 12:11 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Jocelyn Tau, Chair Rebecca Austen Vanessa Bissereth Julie Glasser Angela Harris Katrina Scheihing PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission for Women regular meeting on October 2, 2024. The minutes from the meeting on October 2, 2024, were approved on Chair Tau’s motion and Commissioner Austen’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Vice Chair Bullard and Commissioners Melendez, Rattan, Serrata and Veloz Salas were absent. 1 Commission for Women Meeting Minutes Wednesday, December 4, 2024 DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation by the Anti-Defamation League Austin on their work locally to combat hate and antisemitism. The presentation was made by Courtney Toretto, Director of Policy for the Central Division, Anti-Defamation League Austin. 3. Update from the Quality of Life Working Group, the University of Texas research team, and the Equity Office on their work completed to date, timeline, and progress toward the final Commission for Women's Quality of Life Study of Austin's Women and Girls Population. The presentation was made by Jessica Calderón-Mora, DrPh, Assistant Professor, University of Texas at Austin, Alejandra Mireles, Equity and Inclusion Program Coordinator, Equity Office, and Jaime Fuentes, PhD, Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Texas at Austin. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Presentation by Cierra Madison, Sunday Sessions ATX, and approval of a Recommendation to Council to waive the ACE permitting fees for Sunday Sessions ATX. The presentation was made by Cierra Madison, Founder, Sunday Sessions ATX. The motion to approve a Recommendation to Council of Support of Sunday Sessions ATX was approved on Commissioner Austen’s motion, Commissioner Scheihing’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Vice Chair Bullard and Commissioners Melendez, Rattan, Serrata and Veloz Salas were absent. 5. Approve a primary and secondary representative for the Joint Inclusion Committee. Discussed. No action taken. Chair Tau indicated the item will be brought back for the next meeting. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 6. Update from the Recognition Working Group on their last meeting and progress toward the 2025 event. Chair Tau provided an update. …
Language Access Plan for Citywide Emergencies Marion Sanchez - CPIO | Houmma Garba - CPIO David Wiechmann – HSEM December 17th, 2024 Language Access Plan for Citywide Emergencies: Background The City Auditor conducted two audits: one in 2016 and another in 2021, involving language access services provided by the City, which culminated in a special report and staff response. The audits found that the City may not be meeting the needs of all non-English speaking Austinites because written policies did not align with actual practice. Additionally, the Auditor found that the City did not effectively communicate with community members before and during Winter Storm Uri in 2021, especially in language other than English. Because of this, limited English proficiency (LEP) Austinites may not have had the same access to important information and may have been disproportionately impacted. Austintexas.gov/sites/default/files/files/auditor/audit_reports/language_access_follow_up_may_2023.pdf December 17th, 2024 Language Access Plan for Citywide Emergencies: Language Access Translation: Definitions The conversion of written communication from one language to another in a written form. An accurate translation is one that conveys the intent and essential meaning of the original text. Interpretation: The oral rendition of a spoken message from one language to another, preserving the intent and meaning of the original message. Longer bullet points Threshold Language: The most common spoken languages in Austin other than English. Based on this data, and data on the percentage of people who identify as not speaking English “very well” is how HSEM determined the languages to provide translation and interpretation for. December 17th, 2024 Language Access Plan for Citywide Emergencies: Limited English Proficiency December 17th, 2024 What does Limited English Proficiency mean? Limited English Proficiency (LEP) A person with limited English proficiency (LEP) cannot speak, read, write or understand the English language at a level that permits him or her to interact effectively with City staff. Individuals who communicate with American Sign Language are covered in this definition, although other Federal laws and regulations such as the Americans with Disabilities Act apply and should be considered separately. Hello! ¡Hola! 你好！ 안녕하세요! Xin chào! नमस्ते! မဂင်္လာပါ! Collaborative Partners • Communiations and Public Information Office • Homeland Security & Emergency Management • Ausitn Energy • Austin Water • Austin Public Health • And review by numerous community organizations. In 2022, CPIO, HSEM and a collaboration of the City’s departmental Language Access team members established an Emergency Language Access working group. December 17th, 2024 The …
Commission for Women Meeting Minutes Wednesday, January 8, 2025 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES COMMISSION FOR WOMEN Wednesday, January 8, 2025 The Commission for Women convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St, Austin, Texas, Chambers, Room 1001. Chair Tau called the Commission for Women Meeting to order at 12:05 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Jocelyn Tau, Chair Angela Harris Becky Bullard, Vice Chair Rebecca Austen Diana Melendez Katrina Scheihing Fernanda Veloz-Salas PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission for Women regular meeting on December 4, 2024. The minutes from the meeting on December 4, 2024, were approved on Chair Tau’s motion and Commissioner Harris’ second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Bissereth, Glasser, Rattan, and Serrata were absent. 1 Commission for Women Meeting Minutes Wednesday, January 8, 2025 STAFF BRIEFING DISCUSSION ITEM 2. Staff briefing regarding the City of Austin emergency language access plan from the Communications and Public Information Office and the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. The presentation was made by Marion Sanchez, Community Outreach and Engagement Corporate Manager, Communications and Public Information Office; Houmma Garba, Language Access and Community Engagement Consultant – Corporate, Communications and Public Information Office; and David Alcorta, Community Engagement Specialist- Language Access, Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. 3. Update from the Joint Inclusion representative on the recent work of the Joint Inclusion Committee. The motion to postpone the item was approved on Commissioner Melendez’s motion, Vice Chair Bullard’s second and approved on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Bissereth, Glasser, Rattan, and Serrata were absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve a primary and secondary representative to the Joint Inclusion Committee. The motion to approve Commissioner Melendez as the primary representative and Vice Chair Bullard as the secondary representative to the Joint Inclusion Committee was approved on Chair Tau’s motion, Commissioner Harris’ second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Bissereth, Glasser, Rattan, and Serrata were absent. 5. Approve additional members to the CSCRM Working Group. Discussed. No action taken. None FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT Chair Tau adjourned the meeting at 12:50 p.m. without objection. 2 Commission for Women Meeting Minutes Wednesday, January 8, 2025 The minutes were approved at the February 5, 2025, meeting on Chair Tau’s motion, Commissioner Austen’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Harris and Rattan were absent. 3
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE COMMISSION FOR WOMEN Wednesday, December 4, 2024, 12:00 PM Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room #1101 301 West 2nd Street Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Commission for Women 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 Christi Vitela, 512- 974-2792, christi.vitela@austintexas.gov. Diana Melendez Pam Rattan Katrina Scheihing Josephine Serrata Maria Veloz Salas CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Jocelyn Tau, Chair Becky Bullard, Vice Chair Rebecca Austen Vanessa Bissereth Julie Glasser Angela Harris CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first ten speakers signed up prior 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 for Women regular meeting on October 2, 2024. DISCUSSION ITEMS and antisemitism. 2. Presentation by the Anti-Defamation League Austin on their work locally to combat hate 3. Update from the Quality of Life Working Group, the University of Texas research team, and the Equity Office on their work completed to date, timeline, and progress toward the final Commission for Women's Quality of Life Study of Austin's Women and Girls Population. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Presentation by Cierra Madison, Sunday Sessions ATX, and approval of a Recommendation to Council to waive the ACE permitting fees for Sunday Sessions ATX. 5. Approve a primary and secondary representative for the Joint Inclusion Committee. 6. Update from the Recognition Working Group on their last meeting and progress toward WORKING GROUP UPDATE the 2025 event. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Christi Vitela at the Office of the City Clerk Department at 512-974-2792, or email christi.vitela@austintexas.gov, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at …
Commission for Women Meeting Minutes Wednesday, October 2, 2024 Commission for Women REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, October 2, 2024 The Commission for Women convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St, Austin, Texas, Boards and Commissions Room. Vice Chair Bullard called the Commission for Women Meeting to order at 12:12 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Becky Bullard, Vice Chair Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Rebecca Austen Angela Harris Diana Melendez Pam Rattan Josephine Serrata PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Tatiana LaMadrid Cierra Madison APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission for Women regular meeting on September 4, 2024. The minutes from the meeting on September 4, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Austen’s motion and Commissioner Melendez’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Chair Tau and Commissioners Bissereth, Glasser, Scheihing and Veloz Salas were absent. 1 Commission for Women Meeting Minutes Wednesday, October 2, 2024 DISCUSSION ITEM 2. Presentation by Hanna Senko, Project Manager and Consultant, with an update on the Collective Sex Crimes Response Model (CSCRM) Task Force actions and division of work. Presentation by Hanna Senko, Project Manager and Consultant, Collective Sex Crimes Response Model Task Force; Marcy Alonzo, Austin Travis County Sexual Assault Response and Resource Team (SAART) coordinator; Silvana Giono, Victim Services Supervisor, Austin Police Department; Allison Roper, Business Process Consultant, Austin Police Department; Chris Leleux, Lieutenant, Austin Police Department. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Approve additional members to the Collective Sex Crimes Response Model (CSCRM) Working Group. The motion to approve Commissioner Serrata to the CSCRM Working Group was approved on Commissioner Austen’s motion, Commissioner Rattan’s second on a 6-0 vote. Chair Tau and Commissioners Bissereth, Glasser, Scheihing and Veloz Salas were absent. 4. Approve the Commission for Women 2025 Regular Meeting Schedule. The motion to change the July 2025 date from July 2nd to July 9th was approved on Commissioner Rattan’s motion, Commissioner Harris’s second on a 6-0 vote. Chair Tau and Commissioners Bissereth, Glasser, Scheihing and Veloz Salas were absent. The motion to approve the 2025 Regular Meeting Schedule as amended was approved on Commissioner Rattan’s motion, Commissioner Harris’s second on a 6-0 vote. Chair Tau and Commissioners Bissereth, Glasser, Scheihing and Veloz Salas were absent. Sunday Session ATX and possible recommendation– Cierra Madison (Bullard, Serrata, FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Melendez) Update from the Recognition Working Group (Melendez, Bullard) Update from the Quality of Life Working …
RECOMMENDATION FOR SUPPORT OF SUNDAY SESSIONS ATX WHEREAS, Sunday Sessions ATX is a community-focused organization dedicated to fostering inclusivity, well-being, and engagement through free, open-to-the-public music events hosted in outdoor greenspaces that reflect the City of Austin’s cultural identity and enhance its reputation as the "Live Music Capital of the World"; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin recognizes the significant social and economic benefits of supporting free community events, which attract visitors, support local businesses, and provide meaningful opportunities for community engagement; and WHEREAS, the City Council, in Resolution No. 20240215-023, acknowledged the challenges faced by event organizers due to rising costs, emphasizing the need for support to sustain free, accessible community events like "Blues on the Green," which contribute to Austin’s cultural vibrancy; and directed the City Manager to solicit input from the Arts, Music, and Quality of Life commissions in developing recommendations to support and sustain these events by utilizing partnerships across all areas of expertise involved in the live music and arts event space, with the goal of expanding opportunities for the City to co-sponsor community events that are centered around locality, diversity, and inclusivity; and further established an ordinance for associated fee waivers, co-sponsorships, or related budget authorizations needed to effectuate these goals; and WHEREAS, Sunday Sessions ATX is an ongoing, monthly event that aligns with the goals outlined in Resolution No. 20240215-023 by providing free access to local music, arts, and wellness activities, while creating inclusive and diverse spaces for Austinites; and WHEREAS, the ACE permitting fee presents a financial barrier for small, grassroots organizations like Sunday Sessions ATX, and waiving this fee on an ongoing basis would directly support the City’s goal of fostering open, accessible, and culturally enriching events; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin is committed to preserving and promoting accessible community events that reflect Austin’s diversity and vibrancy, including supporting organizations like Sunday Sessions ATX through fee waivers and other resources to ensure their long-term sustainability; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RECOMMENDED, that the Commission for Women requests that the Austin City Council direct the City Manager’s Office to waive the ACE permitting fees for Sunday Sessions ATX on a recurring, monthly basis in recognition of its valuable contributions to Austin’s cultural and community life, as part of the City's broader efforts to support free, public, and inclusive events; and BE IT FURTHER RECOMMENDED, that the Commission for Women supports exploring additional …
BRAND DECK ATX SUNDAY SESSIONS Sunday Sessions ATX Who We Are Who are we? Sunday Sessions is our wellness ritual. An opportunity to relax, freely express, regularly connect to nature & community, and listen to music that feeds the soul. 03 Sunday Sessions ATX Pillars 06 Sunday Sessions ATX Mission/Vision Our Core Values We believe what we need most in the world at this time is community & dependable, safe spaces that facilitate genuine connection to one another & our environment 05 MISSION To serve our diverse community by embracing collaboration- sharing ideas, information, practices, & services, that uplift our wellness and creativity. Our foundation is rooted in creating welcoming spaces to relax, release, connect, & recharge in nature with our fellow folx. All are welcome, black & brown people are centered. VISION Space where we can leave the worries of the world behind to be present with ourselves & one another, secure in our environment, safe in our bodies, & well in spirit. Sunday Sessions ATX Essence PART 2 Essence 07 H I G H L I G H T S Essence ( c l i c k t o p l a y / s t o p ) L I N K T O R E E L F O O T A G E L I N K T O R E E L ( o r c l i c k t o p l a y / s t o p ) 09 Sunday Sessions ATX Impact PART 3 Impact 10 Community Feedback 11 Sunday Sessions ATX About Us Growth & Engagement Sunday Sessions began Apr 16, 2023 with only 6 attendees & initially occurred once/month. It grew over 700% in just 2 months. We now host events 2 or more times/month 0 INITIAL GROWTH DATE ATTENDEES April: May: June: July 2: July 9: July 16: July 23: July 30: 6 25 51 162+ 350+ 400+/- 325+ 368+ 400 300 200 100 CURRENT AVG ATTENDEES: 250 06 0 A P RIL M A Y J U N E J U LY 2 J U LY 9 J U LY 16 A U G J U LY 3 0 J U LY 23 S E P T ATTENDEE GROWTH O C T O V N D E C F E B M A R A P R M A Y J U N E J …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission for Women Recommendation Number: 20241204-004: Support of Sunday Sessions ATX WHEREAS, Sunday Sessions ATX is a community-focused organization dedicated to fostering inclusivity, well-being, and engagement through free, open-to-the-public music events hosted in outdoor greenspaces that reflect the City of Austin’s cultural identity and enhance its reputation as the "Live Music Capital of the World"; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin recognizes the significant social and economic benefits of supporting free community events, which attract visitors, support local businesses, and provide meaningful opportunities for community engagement; and WHEREAS, the City Council, in Resolution No. 20240215-023, acknowledged the challenges faced by event organizers due to rising costs, emphasizing the need for support to sustain free, accessible community events like "Blues on the Green," which contribute to Austin’s cultural vibrancy; and directed the City Manager to solicit input from the Arts, Music, and Quality of Life commissions in developing recommendations to support and sustain these events by utilizing partnerships across all areas of expertise involved in the live music and arts event space, with the goal of expanding opportunities for the City to co-sponsor community events that are centered around locality, diversity, and inclusivity; and further established an ordinance for associated fee waivers, co-sponsorships, or related budget authorizations needed to effectuate these goals; and WHEREAS, Sunday Sessions ATX is an ongoing, monthly event that aligns with the goals outlined in Resolution No. 20240215-023 by providing free access to local music, arts, and wellness activities, while creating inclusive and diverse spaces for Austinites; and WHEREAS, the ACE permitting fee presents a financial barrier for small, grassroots organizations like Sunday Sessions ATX, and waiving this fee on an ongoing basis would directly support the City’s goal of fostering open, accessible, and culturally enriching events; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin is committed to preserving and promoting accessible community events that reflect Austin’s diversity and vibrancy, including supporting organizations like Sunday Sessions ATX through fee waivers and other resources to ensure their long-term sustainability; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RECOMMENDED, that the Commission for Women requests that the Austin City Council direct the City Manager’s Office to waive the ACE permitting fees for Sunday Sessions ATX on a recurring, monthly basis in recognition of its valuable contributions to Austin’s cultural and community life, as part of the City's broader efforts to support free, public, and inclusive events; and BE IT FURTHER RECOMMENDED, that the …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING of the COMMISSION FOR WOMEN November 6, 2024, 12:00 PM Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room #1101 301 West 2nd Street Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Commission for Women 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 Christi Vitela, 512- 974-2792, christi.vitela@austintexas.gov. Diana Melendez Pam Rattan Katrina Scheihing Josephine Serrata Maria Veloz Salas CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Jocelyn Tau, Chair Becky Bullard, Vice Chair Rebecca Austen Vanessa Bissereth Julie Glasser Angela Harris CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first ten speakers signed up prior 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 for Women regular meeting on October 2, 2024. DISCUSSION ITEMS and antisemitism. 2. Presentation by the Anti-Defamation League Austin on their work locally to combat hate 3. Update from the Recognition Working Group on their last meeting and progress toward the 2025 event. 4. Update from the Quality of Life Working Group on their last meeting with the University of Texas and the Equity Office and the progress toward the final Quality of Life Study. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM 5. Presentation by Cierra Madison, Sunday Sessions ATX, and approval of a Recommendation to Council to waive the ACE permitting fees for Sunday Sessions ATX. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Christi Vitela at the Office of the City Clerk Department at 512-974-2792, or email christi.vitela@austintexas.gov, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Commission for Women, please contact Christi Vitela at the Office of the City Clerk Department at 512-974-2792, or email christi.vitela@austintexas.gov.
Commission for Women Meeting Minutes Wednesday, October 2, 2024 Commission for Women REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, October 2, 2024 The Commission for Women convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St, Austin, Texas, Boards and Commissions Room. Vice Chair Bullard called the Commission for Women Meeting to order at 12:12 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Becky Bullard, Vice Chair Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Rebecca Austen Angela Harris Diana Melendez Pam Rattan Josephine Serrata PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Tatiana LaMadrid Cierra Madison APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission for Women regular meeting on September 4, 2024. The minutes from the meeting on September 4, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Austen’s motion and Commissioner Melendez’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Chair Tau and Commissioners Bissereth, Glasser, Scheihing and Veloz Salas were absent. 1 Commission for Women Meeting Minutes Wednesday, October 2, 2024 DISCUSSION ITEM 2. Presentation by Hanna Senko, Project Manager and Consultant, with an update on the Collective Sex Crimes Response Model (CSCRM) Task Force actions and division of work. Presentation by Hanna Senko, Project Manager and Consultant, Collective Sex Crimes Response Model Task Force; Marcy Alonzo, Austin Travis County Sexual Assault Response and Resource Team (SAART) coordinator; Silvana Giono, Victim Services Supervisor, Austin Police Department; Allison Roper, Business Process Consultant, Austin Police Department; Chris Leleux, Lieutenant, Austin Police Department. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Approve additional members to the Collective Sex Crimes Response Model (CSCRM) Working Group. The motion to approve Commissioner Serrata to the CSCRM Working Group was approved on Commissioner Austen’s motion, Commissioner Rattan’s second on a 6-0 vote. Chair Tau and Commissioners Bissereth, Glasser, Scheihing and Veloz Salas were absent. 4. Approve the Commission for Women 2025 Regular Meeting Schedule. The motion to change the July 2025 date from July 2nd to July 9th was approved on Commissioner Rattan’s motion, Commissioner Harris’s second on a 6-0 vote. Chair Tau and Commissioners Bissereth, Glasser, Scheihing and Veloz Salas were absent. The motion to approve the 2025 Regular Meeting Schedule as amended was approved on Commissioner Rattan’s motion, Commissioner Harris’s second on a 6-0 vote. Chair Tau and Commissioners Bissereth, Glasser, Scheihing and Veloz Salas were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Melendez) Sunday Session ATX and possible recommendation– Cierra Madison (Bullard, Serrata, Update from the Recognition Working Group (Melendez, Bullard) Update from the Quality of Life Working …
RECOMMENDATION FOR SUPPORT OF SUNDAY SESSIONS ATX WHEREAS, Sunday Sessions ATX is a community-focused organization dedicated to fostering inclusivity, well-being, and engagement through free, open-to-the-public music events hosted in outdoor greenspaces that reflect the City of Austin’s cultural identity and enhance its reputation as the "Live Music Capital of the World"; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin recognizes the significant social and economic benefits of supporting free community events, which attract visitors, support local businesses, and provide meaningful opportunities for community engagement; and WHEREAS, the City Council, in Resolution No. 20240215-023, acknowledged the challenges faced by event organizers due to rising costs, emphasizing the need for support to sustain free, accessible community events like "Blues on the Green," which contribute to Austin’s cultural vibrancy; and directed the City Manager to solicit input from the Arts, Music, and Quality of Life commissions in developing recommendations to support and sustain these events by utilizing partnerships across all areas of expertise involved in the live music and arts event space, with the goal of expanding opportunities for the City to co-sponsor community events that are centered around locality, diversity, and inclusivity; and further established an ordinance for associated fee waivers, co-sponsorships, or related budget authorizations needed to effectuate these goals; and WHEREAS, Sunday Sessions ATX is an ongoing, monthly event that aligns with the goals outlined in Resolution No. 20240215-023 by providing free access to local music, arts, and wellness activities, while creating inclusive and diverse spaces for Austinites; and WHEREAS, the ACE permitting fee presents a financial barrier for small, grassroots organizations like Sunday Sessions ATX, and waiving this fee on an ongoing basis would directly support the City’s goal of fostering open, accessible, and culturally enriching events; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin is committed to preserving and promoting accessible community events that reflect Austin’s diversity and vibrancy, including supporting organizations like Sunday Sessions ATX through fee waivers and other resources to ensure their long-term sustainability; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RECOMMENDED, that the Commission for Women requests that the Austin City Council direct the City Manager’s Office to waive the ACE permitting fees for Sunday Sessions ATX on a recurring, monthly basis in recognition of its valuable contributions to Austin’s cultural and community life, as part of the City's broader efforts to support free, public, and inclusive events; and BE IT FURTHER RECOMMENDED, that the Commission for Women supports exploring additional …
BRAND DECK ATX SUNDAY SESSIONS Sunday Sessions ATX Who We Are Who are we? Sunday Sessions is our wellness ritual. An opportunity to relax, freely express, regularly connect to nature & community, and listen to music that feeds the soul. 03 Sunday Sessions ATX Pillars 06 Sunday Sessions ATX Mission/Vision Our Core Values We believe what we need most in the world at this time is community & dependable, safe spaces that facilitate genuine connection to one another & our environment 05 MISSION To serve our diverse community by embracing collaboration- sharing ideas, information, practices, & services, that uplift our wellness and creativity. Our foundation is rooted in creating welcoming spaces to relax, release, connect, & recharge in nature with our fellow folx. All are welcome, black & brown people are centered. VISION Space where we can leave the worries of the world behind to be present with ourselves & one another, secure in our environment, safe in our bodies, & well in spirit. Sunday Sessions ATX Essence PART 2 Essence 07 H I G H L I G H T S Essence ( c l i c k t o p l a y / s t o p ) L I N K T O R E E L F O O T A G E L I N K T O R E E L ( o r c l i c k t o p l a y / s t o p ) 09 Sunday Sessions ATX Impact PART 3 Impact 10 Community Feedback 11 Sunday Sessions ATX About Us Growth & Engagement Sunday Sessions began Apr 16, 2023 with only 6 attendees & initially occurred once/month. It grew over 700% in just 2 months. We now host events 2 or more times/month 0 INITIAL GROWTH DATE ATTENDEES April: May: June: July 2: July 9: July 16: July 23: July 30: 6 25 51 162+ 350+ 400+/- 325+ 368+ 400 300 200 100 CURRENT AVG ATTENDEES: 250 06 0 A P RIL M A Y J U N E J U LY 2 J U LY 9 J U LY 16 A U G J U LY 3 0 J U LY 23 S E P T ATTENDEE GROWTH O C T O V N D E C F E B M A R A P R M A Y J U N E J …
