TECHNOLOGY COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING Wednesday – April 30th, 2025 – 6:30PM City Hall – Boards and Commission – Room 1101 301 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701 Some members of the BOARD/COMMISSION may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, email Dan Martinez at dan.martinez@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Steven Apodaca, Chair Keith Pena-Villa Thomas Rice Benjamin Combee Suzanne Heritage Sumit DasGupta Carina Alderete, Vice Chair Brian AM Williams Rachel Frock Nicholas Eastwood Ibiye Anga AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will 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 Technology Commission meeting on February 12th, 2025. 2. Approve the minutes of the Technology Commission meeting on March 5th, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation on PANO AI, a wildfire tracking system (Christopher Vetromile, Wildfire Mitigation Manager, Austin Energy) 4. Presentation on Austin Free Net’s public resource distribution strategy (Jasmin Vargas, Program Coordinator, Austin Free Net) 5. Housing Department update on their annual Action Plan, their application to Housing and Urban Development’s formula grants and the potential impact on local communities (Rocio Peña-Martinez, Grants Program Manager, and Julie Smith, Engagement Specialist, Housing Department) DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Review and approval of GTOPs Core 2025 selected recipients 7. Officer elections, discussion and approval of chair position 8. Officer elections, discussion and approval of vice chair position WORKING GROUP UPDATES 9. Public Surveillance working group updates regarding further interviews with stakeholders and subsequent action items 10. Artificial Intelligence Working Group updates on next steps on strategic direction and timing of next meeting 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 you require Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 …
M E M O R A N D U M TO: Mayor and City Council THROUGH: Jon Fortune, Deputy City Manager FROM: Carrie Rogers, Intergovernmental Relations Officer DATE: February 25, 2025 SUBJECT: Federal Legislative Update / Potential Reductions at the Department of Housing and Urban Development As a follow up to memorandums issued on January 29, 2025, February 11, 2025, and February 17, 2025, the Intergovernmental Relations Office (IGRO), along with partner departments, continues to review federal administration actions relating to direct and discretionary funding awarded to the City of Austin. On Thursday, February 20, 2025, public reports began circulating of a planned 50% reduction in staff across the entire workforce at the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). In some HUD divisions, the cuts could be deeper – up to 84% at HUD’s Office of Community Planning and Development (CPD) – according to reports. Such a drastic reduction would likely have a significant impact on efforts across the nation to address homelessness and make housing more affordable. CPD includes many programs critically important to the City of Austin, such as HOME Investments Partnerships Program (HOME), Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA), and Continuum of Care (CoC) programming. The City of Austin receives approximately $14 million per year in HUD block grants. An additional $14 million was awarded this January for CoC programs, which primarily support services to address homelessness in Austin through non-profit partners. City of Austin HUD Community Programming Based on the information we have today, and in reviewing the City’s Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) with the Housing Department, the Homeless Strategy Office and Austin Public Health, staff identified the following areas where drastic reductions to HUD personnel and/or a reduction in funding would impact the City of Austin’s community programming: Page 1 of 3 HOME Program ($3,073,266) • HOME provides Tenant Based Rental Assistance to 65 families/individuals experiencing homelessness. The contract is administered through the Housing Authority of the City of Austin (HACA) and coordinated with our Continuum of Care (ECHO). • HOME provides funding for Down Payment Assistance (DPA) for 25 low- to moderate- income homebuyers who are first-time homebuyers. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) - $7,223,444 • Currently, CDBG funding provides programs or services to more than 14,000 Austinites. • CDBG provides critical mental health services, childcare services, and services to …
TO: Technology Commission M E M O R A N D U M FROM: Dan Martinez, Business Process Specialist, Financial Services Department DATE: April 9, 2025 SUBJECT: 2025 Grant for Technology Opportunities (GTOPs) Awardees The purpose of this memorandum is to request the Commission review and to advise staff on the twelve (12) 2025 GTOPs Core Awards, as scored by the GTOPs Grant Review Committee (the Committee) from April 4, 2025, with specific award amounts set by formula and the process described below. GRANT PROGRAM PURPOSE GTOPs provides matching grant funds to Austin organizations that promote resident access to information technology, or that offer literacy programs that create digital opportunities and foster digital inclusion, particularly in underserved segments of our community. The goals of the program are to: ○ Increase use of digital and communications technology devices ○ Increase knowledge and skills of digital and communications technology ○ Increase access to and usage of the Internet AWARDEE SCORING AND SELECTION PROCESS Letters of Interest (LOI) for 2025 GTOPs Core were accepted from November 15, 2024 through January 8, 2025, thirty-four (34) LOIs were received. Grant applications were accepted from January 15, 2025, through February 12, 2025. The Technology Commission appointed a volunteer Grant Review Committee comprised of nine (9) qualified community representatives, three (3) of whom dropped from the panel prior to final scoring. The City received a total of twenty-five (25) applications for GTOPs 2025 Core. Prior to final scoring, the applicants were given the opportunity to respond to questions generated by the Committee. The Committee scored these applications using the GTOPs scoring criteria, including: Impact • Alignment with GTOPs Goals • • Success/feasibility • Budget and fiscal responsibility After the final scores were submitted by the Committee, the scores were ranked ; the top and bottom reviewer scores were then dropped in accordance with the Olympic style scoring system adopted in 2022. The remaining scores were averaged to give the formal score. Bonus points were allocated as programmatically 1 required, giving the final application score. The final application scores were then entered into an algorithm that distributed awards proportional to the scoring of each organization, within program parameters. The parameters considered by the algorithm are: 1) $315,000 in GTOPs funds available. 2) The minimum amount awarded to any organization is 70% of the requested amount. 3) Funds are distributed proportional to differences in scoring. 4) All funds must …
TECHNOLOGY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING Wednesday – April 9th, 2025 – 6:30PM City Hall – Boards and Commission – Room 1101 301 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701 Some members of the BOARD/COMMISSION may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, email Dan Martinez at dan.martinez@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Steven Apodaca, Chair Keith Pena-Villa Thomas Rice Benjamin Combee Suzanne Heritage Sumit DasGupta AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carina Alderete, Vice Chair Brian AM Williams Rachel Frock Nicholas Eastwood Ibiye Anga The first ten speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will 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 Technology Commission meeting on February 12th, 2025. 2. Approve the minutes of the Technology Commission meeting on March 5th, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation on PANO AI, a wildfire tracking system (Christopher Vetromile, Wildfire Mitigation Manager, Austin Energy) 4. Presentation on Austin Free Net’s public resource distribution strategy (Adam Hughes, Volunteer Coordinator, Austin Free Net) 5. Housing Department update on their annual Action Plan, their application to Housing and Urban Development’s formula grants and the potential impact on local communities (Rocio Peña-Martinez, Grants Program Manager, and Julie Smith, Engagement Specialist, Housing Department) DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Review and approval of GTOPs Core 2025 selected recipients 7. Officer elections, discussion and approval of chair position 8. Officer elections, discussion and approval of vice chair position WORKING GROUP UPDATES 9. Public Surveillance working group updates regarding further interviews with stakeholders and subsequent action items 10. Artificial Intelligence Working Group updates on next steps on strategic direction and timing of next meeting 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 you require Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days …
TECHNOLOGY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING Wednesday – March 5th, 2025 – 6:30PM Austin Energy – Mueller Assembly Room – Room 1111a 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723 Some members of the BOARD/COMMISSION may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, email Dan Martinez at dan.martinez@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Steven Apodaca, Chair Keith Pena-Villa Thomas Rice Suzanne Heritage Sumit DasGupta AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carina Alderete, Vice Chair Brian AM Williams Gabriel Nwajiaku Ibiye Anga The first ten speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will 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 Technology Commission meeting on February 12th, 2025. 2. Presentation on the Professional Development and EdExchange program (Madeleine Edwards, CEO, Austin Children’s Museum) DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation on the status of the city’s participation and involvement in the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment program challenge process (Khotan Harmon, Program Manager, City of Austin Economic Development Department) 4. Presentation regarding Grant received applications (Dan Martinez, Business Process Specialist, City of Austin Community Technology Division) for Technology Opportunities Program 5. Presentation on the City of Austin and Travis County’s collaborative Digital Needs Assessment (Chloe Munn, Reyda Taylor from Travis County and Jesse Rodriguez from City of Austin) DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Review and approval of recommendation for maintaining Funding for the Grant for Technology Opportunities Program (GTOPs) in the FY26 Budget 7. Review and approval of recommendation for funding an affordable device distribution & repair program in the FY26 Budget FY26 budget in the FY26 Budget 8. Review and approval of recommendation for expanding public internet access in the 9. Review and approval of recommendation for increased funding for Digital Skills training 10. Review and Approval of recommendation for continued funding for AI upskilling for City of Austin employees in the FY26 Budget WORKING GROUP UPDATES 11. Public Surveillance working group updates regarding further meetings with surveillance stakeholders 12. Artificial …
Recommendation for Continued Funding for AI Upskilling for City of Austin Employees in the FY26 Budget WHEREAS, artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries, including government operations, and enhancing efficiencies in data analysis, decision-making, and service delivery; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has already made initial investments in AI training and upskilling programs to ensure that its workforce is equipped with the necessary knowledge and tools to leverage AI-based technologies effectively; and WHEREAS, the previous requested budget amendment during FY2025 of $75,000 for AI training, technical assistance, and continuing education has provided City employees with critical skills in data science, design, and AI applications; and WHEREAS, demand for AI-related education and resources continues to grow among City employees, highlighting the need for sustained investment in training programs; and WHEREAS, the expansion of initiatives such as the DIVE (Data Impact Visualization and Exploration) program would further support the City’s commitment to fostering technological innovation and digital proficiency among its workforce; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Technology Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate continued funding in the FY26 Budget to sustain and expand AI upskilling initiatives for City of Austin employees, ensuring they remain proficient in emerging technologies that enhance public service delivery.
Recommendation for Maintaining Funding for the Grant for Technology Opportunities Program (GTOPs) in the FY26 Budget WHEREAS, digital inclusion remains a critical issue for the residents of Austin, impacting access to essential services, economic opportunities, and educational resources; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has demonstrated its commitment to digital equity through continued investment in initiatives that support underserved communities; and WHEREAS, the Grant for Technology Opportunities Program (GTOPs) has a proven track record of funding impactful community programs that provide digital literacy training, access to devices, and broadband connectivity to Austin residents; and WHEREAS, maintaining the GTOPs budget at $400,000 will ensure the program’s continued impact, enabling more organizations to bridge the digital divide and support the City’s strategic goals on digital equity; and WHEREAS, community organizations rely on GTOPs funding to expand digital inclusion programs, ensuring that residents have access to the technology and skills necessary to participate fully in an increasingly digital world; and WHEREAS, continued investment in GTOPs aligns with the City of Austin’s strategic objectives related to digital equity, workforce development, and economic opportunity; and WHEREAS, the GTOPs program offers multiple funding pathways to ensure a comprehensive approach to addressing digital inclusion challenges, including Core Funding, Mini Funding, and Capacity Funding; and WHEREAS, Core Funding supports large-scale initiatives aimed at significantly advancing digital inclusion efforts within the community; and WHEREAS, Mini Funding serves as a vital resource for smaller-scale projects and initiatives seeking to make meaningful contributions to digital inclusion efforts in Austin; and WHEREAS, Capacity Funding provides essential support to grassroots organizations and initiatives, enabling them to build capacity and expand their reach in addressing digital inclusion disparities within underserved communities; and WHEREAS, the demand for digital inclusion funding continues to grow, with community organizations reporting an ongoing need for financial resources to support programs that enhance digital access and literacy; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Community Technology and Telecommunications Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate $400,000 in the FY26 Budget to the Grant for Technology Opportunities Program (GTOPs) to further advance digital inclusion efforts citywide.
Recommendation for Funding an Affordable Device Distribution & Repair Program in the FY26 Budget WHEREAS, access to affordable, functioning digital devices is essential for participation in education, employment, healthcare, and government services; and WHEREAS, the Travis County - City of Austin Broadband and Digital Equity Needs Assessment found that lower-income households, older adults, and individuals with disabilities face significant barriers to obtaining and maintaining digital devices; and WHEREAS, planned obsolescence, high repair costs, and lack of affordable device options disproportionately affect underserved communities; and WHEREAS, expanding access to low-cost or refurbished devices and repair services would enable more Austin residents to participate fully in the digital economy; and WHEREAS, creating a dedicated GTOPs Hardware Fund would allow for targeted grants supporting device distribution and repair programs through partnerships with local nonprofits, libraries, and community organizations; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Community Technology and Telecommunications Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate funding in the FY26 Budget to establish a GTOPs Hardware Fund, ensuring that all residents have access to affordable devices and repair services, thereby closing the digital divide in Austin.
Recommendation for Expanding Public Internet Access in the FY26 Budget WHEREAS, reliable internet access is essential for education, employment, healthcare, and civic engagement; and WHEREAS, the Travis County - City of Austin Broadband and Digital Equity Needs Assessment found that many residents rely on public Wi-Fi to access essential services but face inconsistent availability; and WHEREAS, expanding free public internet access at libraries, parks, transit hubs, and community centers would increase digital inclusion for residents without reliable home connectivity; and WHEREAS, investment in public Wi-Fi infrastructure would particularly benefit lower-income residents, unhoused individuals, and communities with limited broadband options; and WHEREAS, extending public Wi-Fi service hours and coverage areas would enhance accessibility for those who rely on it for job applications, remote learning, and telehealth services; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Technology Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate funding in the FY26 Budget to expand and enhance public internet access across the city, ensuring equitable digital access for all residents in the following ways: - Public internet access points with after-hour and weekend hours of operation - Public computer labs should be equipped with robust features, like webcams and private spaces for private communications (like telehealth visits) and device charging stations - Emergency response locations should have resilient internet/phone connectivity and charging stations.
Recommendation for Increased Funding for Digital Skills Training in the FY26 Budget WHEREAS, digital skills are increasingly necessary for full participation in the workforce, education, healthcare, and civic engagement; and WHEREAS, the Travis County - City of Austin Broadband and Digital Equity Needs Assessment found that lower-income residents, older adults, justice-impacted individuals, and non-native English speakers face significant barriers to digital literacy; and WHEREAS, survey data indicate that 59% of respondents would be interested in free digital skills training for themselves or a household member, with interest particularly high among individuals without home internet access; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has an opportunity to expand digital literacy programs through partnerships with libraries, schools, community organizations, and workforce development centers; and WHEREAS, the demand for digital literacy training continues to grow, and increased investment will ensure residents have access to relevant skills training in multiple formats, including in- person, online, and hybrid learning; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Technology Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate additional funding in the FY26 Budget for expanding digital skills training programs, ensuring free and accessible training opportunities for Austin residents who face the greatest barriers to digital literacy.
Travis County and the City of Austin 2023 Broadband and Digital Equity Needs Assessment 4.5 Access inside and outside the home 4.5.1 Computers to thrive and mobile to survive 4.5.2 Location based access outside the home 5.1.3 Increase availability, accessibility, and awareness of free public- access internet options 5.1.4 Support mobile connectivity 5.4.1 Support people’s ownership of their own data as a default 5.4.2 Provide the public with information on anti-spam laws 5.1.5 Advocate for the accessibilty of services, programs, and mobile information online, especially on 5.4.3 Support the decision-making autonomy of tenants when it comes to their decisions about internet and technology Contents 1 Introduction 2 Background 3 Approach 4 Findings 4.1 Who is and is not connected 4.6 Technology support 4.1.1 Populations that face higher digital barriers 4.7 Consumer protection concerns 4.1.2 By geography 4.1.3 By race/ethnicity 4.1.4 By income 4.2 The cost of connecting 4.3 Lack of digital skills 4.3.1 Digital skills and breaks in economic or educational participation 4.3.2 Differences in self-reported digital skills 4.7.1 Spams, scams, and data privacy and ownership 4.7.2 Unfair or confusing marketing practices 4.7.3 Planned obsolescence and lack of affordable repair options 4.7.4 Internet options in multi-tenant environments (MTEs) 4.8 Need for accessibility features 4.9 Issues of trust 5 Recommendations 4.3.3 Who is interested in digital skills training 4.3.4 What digital skills topics do people want to know Internet service availability, quality, and 4.4 reliability 5.1 How might we support all populations in accessing affordable, reliable, high- speed internet? 5.1.1 Provide targeted support to populations that have higher digital barriers 4.4.1 Causes for disruption 4.4.2 Who is impacted by disruption 4.4.3 What is impacted by disruption 5.1.2 Identify and support strategies to make sure all consumers know what low-cost internet options are available and how to compare and sign up for plans 5.2 How might we promote and maintain the community’s access to quality, low- cost devices? 6 How to get engaged 5.2.1 Identify, support, and promote sources of low-cost devices 5.2.2 Increase the availability, awareness, and affordability of options to have devices reparied or receive technology support 5.2.3 Support the ability of consumers to repair their own devices 7 Thank you 8 About this report 9 Appendix 9.1 Methods 5.3 How might we improve the community’s access to free digital skills training and development opportunities 5.3.1 Teach community members what they want to know 5.3.2 Provide digital skills training in …
BEAD & NTIA Update Technology Commission Economic Development Department (EDD) March 5, 2025 Khotan Harmon BEAD – (Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment) • BEAD (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment) Program is a $42.45 Billion Dollars in Broadband funding to all 50 states to help expand high-speed internet access and use (focused mainly on infrastructure buildout). • • Texas was allocated $3.3 billion (most of any state) to to support infrastructure deployment, mapping and adoption, including planning and capacity-building. Texas residents voted in 2023 for an additional $1.5 Billion for broadband expansion in Texas. Texas has: $4.8 billion! • Austin/Travis – affordability is the biggest barrier to connectivity, not infrastructure • White House circulated a memo on January 27, 2025 "directing agencies to pause all federal grant disbursements pending reviews of their ideological alignment with the Trump administration, causing confusion in the industry over the fate of BEAD and other programs." https://broadbandbreakfast.com/lutnick-receptive-to-gop-critiques-of-bead-declines-to-commit- to-approved-spending/ • March 5, 2025 – Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick – “rigorous review” of BEAD and ”tech-neutral” approach. https://www.route-fifty.com/digital-government/2025/03/commerce-secretary-announces-rigorous-review-bead- program/403494/?oref=rf-home-top-story • Additionally - Sen Ted Cruz issued statement that there would be big changes ahead for BEAD: https://www.commerce.senate.gov/2024/11/sen-cruz-warns-biden-harris-ntia-big-changes-ahead-for-multi-billion- dollar-broadband-boondoggle C I T Y O F A U S T I N NTIA – DIGITAL EQUITY COMPETITIVE GRANT NTIA (National Telecommunications and Information Administration) had scheduled two rounds of funding for the Digital Equity Competitive Grant, they ended up making recommendations for more than $369 million to 41 organizations nationally. According to the NTIA "This funding comes from the $1.25 billion Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program, one of three Digital Equity Act grant programs created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law." The list of their recommendations for funding for the competitive grant was shared on the NTIA website on 1/17/2025: https://www.ntia.gov/other-publication/2025/digital-equity-competitive-grant-program-applications- recommended-award Austin supported the application of a Central Texas partners for $12 million dollars with $$$ match. No status update from NTIA at this time. C I T Y O F A U S T I N C I T Y O F A U S T I N
Digital Equity Needs Assessment Topline Insights Project Purpose Travis County and the City of Austin conducted a study to better understand the needs, barriers, and assets available for digital access prioritizing low-income communities, communities of color, and other communities that have been historically and systemically marginalized. This involved: 1) a needs assessment to collect, analyze, and share data about community members’ access to affordable and reliable digital connectivity and resources that enable digital access (e.g. skills, devices), as well as 2) co-design and evaluate possible strategies and recommendations to increase internet connectivity and access for all What is digital equity? Internet Access Digital Devices Digital Skills Laws Electric grid Population growth Topography Technology change Global economy Percentage of Travis County Households without Internet Subscriptions Source: U.S. Census Bureau’s 2018 - 2022 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates, Table B28004 Project Key Activities PHASE I JANUARY - APRIL PHASE II PHASE III MAY - AUGUST SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2025 Survey and Advisory Community Circles Data Convenings Report 1382 Survey Responses 19 7 Organizations in Non-Profit Working Group Community Share Outs and Solutioning Activities 44 Participants in 3 Advisory Workshops 193 Participants in 11 Community Conversation Circles Data Collection and Resource Sharing Design & Administration Top Challenges & Opportunities Circles: Top Challenges What kinds of things make it more difficult for you to get access to or use the internet? • Cost/Affordability • Digital Skills • Internet Service Problems • Accessibility • Device Issues • Security and Safety Concerns • Language Barriers • Public access – Transportation – Paywalls (e.g. purchase • Barriers to Internet Service (e.g. documentation, credit history) for password) – Awareness of resources Survey: Top Recommendations Do you have any ideas of how Travis County and the City of Austin can help our communities improve internet access? (n=351) (*Themes of open-ended responses) 95 31 43 44 31 31 19 13 18 24 2 Survey: Barriers to Get Internet at Home What is a barrier for you to get internet at home? (Check all that apply.) Respondents without internet at home: n=211 Source: Travis County and City of Austin In-Person Survey conducted February 7, 2023 to April 28, 2023 Circles: Solutions If money or resources where not a problem, how would you improve the community's access to internet and technology? • • • • Improve and Increase Digital Skills Support and Training Increase Access or Availability of Free or Discounted …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION TECHNOLOGY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION NUMBER: 20250305-006: REGARDING: Recommendation for Maintaining Funding for the Grant for Technology Opportunities Program (GTOPs) in the FY26 Budget WHEREAS, digital inclusion remains a critical issue for the residents of Austin, impacting access to essential services, economic opportunities, and educational resources; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has demonstrated its commitment to digital equity through continued investment in initiatives that support underserved communities; and WHEREAS, the Grant for Technology Opportunities Program (GTOPs) has a proven track record of funding impactful community programs that provide digital literacy training, access to devices, and broadband connectivity to Austin residents; and WHEREAS, maintaining the GTOPs budget at $400,000 will ensure the program’s continued impact, enabling more organizations to bridge the digital divide and support the City’s strategic goals on digital equity; and WHEREAS, community organizations rely on GTOPs funding to expand digital inclusion programs, ensuring that residents have access to the technology and skills necessary to participate fully in an increasingly digital world; and WHEREAS, continued investment in GTOPs aligns with the City of Austin’s strategic objectives related to digital equity, workforce development, and economic opportunity; and WHEREAS, the GTOPs program offers multiple funding pathways to ensure a comprehensive approach to addressing digital inclusion challenges, including Core Funding, Mini Funding, and Capacity Funding; and WHEREAS, Core Funding supports large-scale initiatives aimed at significantly advancing digital inclusion efforts within the community; and WHEREAS, Mini Funding serves as a vital resource for smaller-scale projects and initiatives seeking to make meaningful contributions to digital inclusion efforts in Austin; and WHEREAS, Capacity Funding provides essential support to grassroots organizations and initiatives, enabling them to build capacity and expand their reach in addressing digital inclusion disparities within underserved communities; and WHEREAS, the demand for digital inclusion funding continues to grow, with community organizations reporting an ongoing need for financial resources to support programs that enhance digital access and literacy; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Technology Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate $400,000 in the FY26 Budget to the Grant for Technology Opportunities Program (GTOPs) to further advance digital inclusion efforts citywide. Date of Approval: March 5th, 2025 Record of the vote: Motion to approve made by Commissioner Combee and seconded by Commissioner Rice. The recommendation was approved on a vote of 6-0. Attest: _____________________________________________ Dan Martinez Community Technology Division Economic Development Department / City of Austin
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION TECHNOLOGY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION NUMBER: 20250305-007: REGARDING: Recommendation for Funding an Affordable Device Distribution & Repair Program in the FY26 Budget WHEREAS, access to affordable, functioning digital devices is essential for participation in education, employment, healthcare, and government services; and WHEREAS, the Travis County - City of Austin Broadband and Digital Equity Needs Assessment found that lower-income households, older adults, and individuals with disabilities face significant barriers to obtaining and maintaining digital devices; and WHEREAS, planned obsolescence, high repair costs, and lack of affordable device options disproportionately affect underserved communities; and WHEREAS, expanding access to low-cost or refurbished devices and repair services would enable more Austin residents to participate fully in the digital economy; and WHEREAS, creating a dedicated Hardware Fund would allow for targeted grants supporting device distribution and repair programs through partnerships with local nonprofits, libraries, and community organizations; and WHEREAS, this would result in a reduction of e-waste; and WHEREAS, a public-private partnership could be used to drive total funding; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Technology Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate a minimum funding amount of $25,000 to the FY26 Budget to establish a Hardware Fund, ensuring that all residents have access to affordable devices and repair services, thereby closing the digital divide in Austin. Date of Approval: March 5th, 2025 Record of the vote: Motion to approve made by Commissioner Heritage and seconded by Commissioner Alderete. The recommendation was approved on a vote of 6-0. Attest: _____________________________________________ Dan Martinez Community Technology Division Economic Development Department / City of Austin
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION TECHNOLOGY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION NUMBER: 20250305-008: REGARDING: Recommendation for expanding public internet access in the FY26 budget WHEREAS, reliable internet access is essential for education, employment, healthcare, and civic engagement; and WHEREAS, the Travis County - City of Austin Broadband and Digital Equity Needs Assessment found that many residents rely on public Wi-Fi to access essential services but face inconsistent availability; and WHEREAS, expanding free public internet access at libraries, parks, transit hubs, and community centers would increase digital inclusion for residents without reliable home connectivity; and WHEREAS, investment in public Wi-Fi infrastructure would particularly benefit lower-income residents, unhoused individuals, ADA applicable community members, and communities with limited broadband options; and WHEREAS, extending public Wi-Fi service hours and coverage areas would enhance accessibility for those who rely on it for job applications, remote learning, and telehealth services; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Technology Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate funding and exploration in partnership with EDD to expand and enhance public internet access across the city, ensuring equitable digital access for all residents in the following ways: - - - - Public internet access points with after-hour and weekend hours of operation Public computer labs should be equipped with robust features, like webcams and private spaces for private communications (like telehealth visits) and device charging stations Emergency response locations should have resilient internet/phone connectivity and charging stations. Expansion of public internet access points should be aligned according to digital divide index and other related data sources Date of Approval: __March 5th, 2025______________________ Record of the vote: Motion to approve made by Commissioner Combee and seconded by Commissioner Anga. The recommendation was approved on a vote of 6-0. Attest: _____________________________________________ Dan Martinez Community Technology Division Economic Development Department / City of Austin
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION TECHNOLOGY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION NUMBER: 20250305-009: REGARDING: Recommendation for Increased Funding for Digital Skills Training in the FY26 Budget WHEREAS, digital skills are increasingly necessary for full participation in the workforce, education, healthcare, and civic engagement; and WHEREAS, the Travis County - City of Austin Broadband and Digital Equity Needs Assessment found that lower-income residents, older adults, justice-impacted individuals, and non-native English speakers face significant barriers to digital literacy; and WHEREAS, survey data indicate that 59% of respondents would be interested in free digital skills training for themselves or a household member, with interest particularly high among individuals without home internet access; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has an opportunity to expand digital literacy programs through partnerships with libraries, schools, community organizations, and workforce development centers; and WHEREAS, the demand for digital literacy training continues to grow, and increased investment will ensure residents have access to relevant skills training in multiple formats, including in-person, online, and hybrid learning; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Technology Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate additional funding in the amount of $450,000 in the FY26 Budget for expanding digital skills training programs, and device distributions, ensuring free and accessible training opportunities for Austin residents who face the greatest barriers to digital literacy. Date of Approval: March 5th, 2025 Record of the vote: Motion to approve made by Commissioner Anga and seconded by Commissioner Combee. The recommendation was approved on a vote of 6-0. Attest: _____________________________________________ Dan Martinez Community Technology Division Economic Development Department / City of Austin
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION TECHNOLOGY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION NUMBER: 20250305-010: REGARDING: Recommendation for Continued Funding for AI Upskilling for City of Austin Employees in the FY26 Budget WHEREAS, artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries, including government operations, and enhancing efficiencies in data analysis, decision-making, and service delivery; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has already made initial investments in AI training and upskilling programs to ensure that its workforce is equipped with the necessary knowledge and tools to leverage AI-based technologies effectively; and WHEREAS, the previous requested budget amendment during FY2025 of $75,000 for AI training, technical assistance, and continuing education has provided City employees with critical skills in data science, design, and AI applications; and WHEREAS, demand for AI-related education and resources continues to grow among City employees, highlighting the need for sustained investment in training programs; and WHEREAS, the expansion of initiatives such as the DIVE (Data Impact Visualization and Exploration) program would further support the City’s commitment to fostering technological innovation and digital proficiency among its workforce; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Technology Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate continued funding in the amount of $75,000 in the FY26 Budget to sustain and expand AI upskilling initiatives for City of Austin employees, as well as in the area of digital literacy and practice, ensuring they remain proficient in emerging technologies that enhance public service delivery. Date of Approval: March 5th, 2025 Record of the vote: Motion to approve made by Commissioner Anga and seconded by Commissioner Heritage. The recommendation was approved on a vote of 6-0. Attest: _____________________________________________ Dan Martinez Community Technology Division Economic Development Department / City of Austin
COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING Wednesday – February 12th, 2025 – 6:30PM City Hall – Boards and Commission – Room 1101 301 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701 Some members of the BOARD/COMMISSION may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, email Dan Martinez at dan.martinez@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Steven Apodaca, Chair Keith Pena-Villa Thomas Rice Suzanne Heritage Sumit DasGupta AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carina Alderete, Vice Chair Brian AM Williams Gabriel Nwajiaku Ibiye Anga The first ten speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will 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 Community Technology and Telecommunications Commission meeting on January 8th, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation on the status of the city’s participation and involvement in the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment program challenge process (Khotan Harmon, Program Manager, City of Austin Economic Development Department) 3. Presentation on HB1709 & the City of Austin’s Digital Strategy (Daniel Culotta, Chief Innovation Officer, City of Austin Office of Innovation) 4. City of Austin Technology Conference Recap: Discussion of learnings and next steps from attendees (Chair Apodaca and Commissioner Williams, Community Technology Telecommunications Commission) DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and approval of final updates to the revised CTTC bylaws WORKING GROUP UPDATES 6. Recap of Public Surveillance working group meetings with local stakeholders and development of recommendations 7. Artificial Intelligence Working Group’s takeaways from the CoA Technology Conference and stakeholder engagement next steps 8. Duplicative Technologies working group discussion, activities and meetings taken to ensure cross-division collaboration in system development 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 you require Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting …
