REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION September 23, 2025, 6:00 P.M. City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room #1101 301 West 2nd St Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory 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 Christi Vitela, 512- 974-2792, christi.vitela@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Amanda Afifi, Chair Yesenia Ramos, Vice Chair Dulce Castañeda Lyssette Galvan Johanna Moya Fábregas Brian Peña Jesús Perales Melissa Ruiz AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 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 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on August 26, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 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 ITEMS 3. Presentation by Michael Ward Jr., President and CEO, Universal Tech Movement, regarding an updated mission, digital inclusion efforts and ways in which the commission can support UTM's pathways into technology. 4. Discussion regarding the changes to the Get to Know Your Commission sessions. 5. Discussion regarding the Tax Rate Election and the changes to FY 26-27 budget engagement and recommendations. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve updates to the membership of the Immigration Working Group. 7. Approve the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission’s 2026 Regular Meeting Schedule. 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 City Clerk’s Department, at 512-974-2792, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For …
Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission August 26, 2025 HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, August 26, 2025 The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St in Austin, Texas. Chair Afifi called the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Amanda Afifi Johanna Moya Fábregas Melissa Ruiz Yesenia Ramos Daniela Silva Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Dulce Castañeda Lyssette Galvan PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Raquel Rivera – Invitation to Ray Lozano’s Baile Folklórico de Texas Gavino Fernandez – College Access Program Luis Acosta – College Access Program APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on July 22, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of July 22, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Silva’s motion, Commissioner Galvan’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Peña and Perales were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 1 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission August 26, 2025 2. Staff briefing regarding an introduction and an overview of Austin Equity and Inclusion by the Commission’s new Executive Liaison Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director, Austin Equity and Inclusion, Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Austin Equity and Inclusion, and Enrique Serrano, Civil Rights Officer, Austin Equity and Inclusion. The presentation was made by Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director, Austin Equity and Inclusion, and Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Austin Equity and Inclusion. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of the Austin Equity and Inclusion Office’s Know Your Commission Events. Discussed. 4. Discussion of the Austin Police’s Automated License Plate Reader Program. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a Recommendation to Council to not authorize an Automated License Plate Reader Program. The Recommendation to Council in Opposition to Automated License Plate Reader Programs was approved on Commissioner Moya Fábregas’ motion, and Commissioner Galvan’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Peña and Perales were absent. 6. Approve the formation of Working Group focused on collaborating with relevant stakeholders (agencies, non-profits, service providers, the City of Austin, the faith community and others) to address disparities and enhance preventive measures for the Hispanic/Latino Immigrant community. The Working Group was formed on Vice Chair Ramos’ motion, Commissioner Ruiz’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Peña and Perales were absent. The motion to approve Chair Afifi, and …
Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission 2026 Regular Meeting Schedule 4th Tuesday of each month at 6:00 pm 1. January 27, 2026 2. February 24, 2026 3. March 24, 2026 4. April 28, 2026 5. May 19, 2026* 6. June 23, 2026 7. July 28, 2026 8. August 25, 2026 9. September 22, 2026 10. October 27, 2026 11. November 17, 2026* 12. December 15, 2026* *revised due to holiday
Language Access Plan for Citywide Emergencies Houmma Garba - CPIO David Alcorta – HSEM 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 Language Access Plan for Citywide Emergencies: Language Access Translation: 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: Definitions The oral rendition of a spoken message from one language to another, preserving the intent and meaning of the original message. 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. Language Access Plan for Citywide Emergencies: Limited English Proficiency 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 In 2022, CPIO, HSEM and a collaboration of the City’s departmental Language Access team members established an Emergency Language Access working group. • Communiations and Public Information Office • Homeland Security & Emergency Management • Ausitn Energy • Austin Water • Austin Public Health • And review by numerous community organizations. The Working Group planning activities included: • Gathering LEP relevant data about existing City services and the communities the City serves. • A review …
BRING UNIVERSAL TECH MOVEMNT TO A COMMUNITY NEAR YOU Transforming Tech, One Career at a Time About Us Universal Tech Movement (UTM) is a community-driven EdTech 501(c)(3) nonprofit that connects communities to the tech industry through workforce readiness, innovation, and economic advancement. Through employer, gonvernmental partnerships, UTM opens career pathways, supports business creation, and equips individuals to enter the tech industry, advance across it, and become engaged techies who strengthen the ecosystem. The Purpose Expanding Universal Tech Movement’s workforce readiness, innovation, and economic advancement services statewide will unlock transformative opportunities. Our efforts strengthen communities, create jobs, and fuel lasting economic growth. With our proven Universal Tech Pathways program, UTM is driving career advancement, business support, and innovation across the state. Beyond Training Barriers to opportunity are deep-rooted and complex. To fully succeed, participants need more than training — they need holistic support for stability and well-being. No single organization can do this alone. Universal Tech Movement serves as the gateway for communities to access digital equity, career opportunities, workforce readiness, innovation, and economic advancement — building a thriving tech ecosystem for all. Quality of Life Service Providers Digital Equity & Workforce Collaborators Lead Partner Universal Tech Movement Digital Equity Skills Training Job Placement Business Creation Innovation Tech Ecosystem for All Driving Innovation With Our Partners 1.Launch programs in key zip codes to build lasting and inclusive local tech ecosystems. 2.Collaborate with funders, employers, and community organizations to implement our proven model and grow the tech talent pool. 3.Expand opportunity in the tech ecosystem while addressing workforce needs and community challenges. 4.Investments change career trajectories and ensure long-term workforce readiness, innovation, and economic growth. Our Impact Participants • 1000+ served across Texas, • 49% male, 48% female, and 3% other Participant Ages • 5% under 18 • 25% ages 18-25 • 38% ages 26-35 • 30% ages 36-59 • 2% over 60 Race & Ethnicity • 55% Black • 24% Hispanic • 9% Multiracial • 9% White • 2% Asian • 1% Other Level of Income • Poverty line for a family of 5: $37,650 • 60% below poverty line • 60% earn < $13,000/year • 80% earn < $50,000/year Universal Tech Movement is headquarterd in Austin, TX with participants in 111 unique zip codes across Texas. Most frequent counties are Travis, Williamson, Bell, Tarrant, Harris, & Hays. Engaged in approximately 8 major Texas metropolitan communities: Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION August 26, 2025, 6:00 P.M. City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room #1101 301 West 2nd St Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory 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 Christi Vitela, 512- 974-2792, christi.vitela@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Amanda Afifi, Chair Yesenia Ramos, Vice Chair Dulce Castañeda Lyssette Galvan Johanna Moya Fábregas Brian Peña Jesús Perales Melissa Ruiz Daniela Silva AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 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 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on July 22, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding an introduction and an overview of Austin Equity and Inclusion by the Commission’s new Executive Liaison Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director, Austin Equity and Inclusion, Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Austin Equity and Inclusion, and Enrique Serrano, Civil Rights Officer, Austin Equity and Inclusion. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of the Austin Equity and Inclusion Office’s Know Your Commission Events. 4. Discussion of the Austin Police’s Automated License Plate Reader Program. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a Recommendation to Council to not authorize an Automated License Plate Reader Program. 6. Approve the formation of Working Group focused on collaborating with relevant stakeholders (agencies, non-profits, service providers, the City of Austin, the faith community and others) to address disparities and enhance preventive measures for the Hispanic/Latino Immigrant community. 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 City Clerk’s Department, at 512-974-2792, for …
Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission July 22, 2025 HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Thursday, July 22, 2025 The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission convened in a special called meeting on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St in Austin, Texas. Chair Afifi called the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:11 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Amanda Afifi Brian Peña Johanna Moya Fábregas Melissa Ruiz Daniela Silva Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Dulce Castañeda Lyssette Galvan Jesús Perales PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission special called meeting on June 26, 2025. The minutes from the meeting on June 26, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Perales’ motion, Commissioner Silva’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Peña was off the dais. Commissioners Jackson and Ramos were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion of accessibility frameworks and Latine community needs and usage of the City of Austin digital products with Luisa Apolaya Torres, Sr. Service Designer, Communications & Technology Management. 1 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission July 22, 2025 The presentation was made by Luisa Apolaya Torres, Sr. Service Designer, Communications & Technology Management. 3. Presentation regarding Know Your Rights, Annie Fierro, Workers Defense Action Fund. The presentation was made by Annie Fierro, Immigration Campaign Organizer, Workers Defense Action Fund. 4. Discussion of the City of Austin Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Proposed Budget. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding funding for Academia Cuauhtli. The motion to approve a Recommendation to Council regarding funding for Academia Cuauhtli was approved on Commissioner Perales’ motion, Commissioner Silva’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Jackson and Ramos were absent. 6. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the Office of Community Liaison. Discussed. 7. Approve the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review. The motion to approve the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review with the following amendments was approved on Commissioner Silva’s motion, Commissioner Moya Fábregas’ second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Jackson and Ramos were absent. The amendments were to revise page 2 to strike “Afifi, Silva, Galvan, and Perales” and to replace “one virtual and two in person” with “two virtual and one in person.” The amendments were to …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: (20250826-005): Opposition to Automated License Plate Reader Programs Recommendation The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission urges City Council to reject any future proposals to implement automated (A.I.) license plate reader (ALPR) surveillance programs. Description of Recommendation to Council Although the trial period for the Austin Police Department’s use of automated (A.I.) license plate readers ended earlier this summer, Council must listen to the people of Austin and protect their privacy and safety by rejecting any future proposals to implement any A.I. surveillance technology. It is the recommendation of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Committee that Council reject any future proposals to fund or implement ALPRs. Rationale: From March through December of 2024, automated license plate readers (ALPR) scanned more than 75 million license plates across Austin as part of an APD trial program. While Council’s approved policy stated that license plate data must be deleted within one week, that was not the reality of the program. According to a recent audit, contractor Flock Safety retained "non-exclusive, worldwide, perpetual, royalty-free right and license" to indefinitely use license plate information scanned across Austin.1 What this means is that the data connected to the millions of license plates scanned under this program were not protected. This program puts the data of Austinites at risk. Consider what Texas State Senator Sarah Eckhardt, who represents much of Austin, said on the floor of the Texas Senate just last week during the hearing for HB521: “We’re in the process of creating a number of lists, and this is of great concern. We have a number of bills this session… that create lists of people as if we are preparing to shoot fish in a barrel… We have lists of individuals who are public servants who are trying to assist people to vote. We have lists of judges who are using 1https://communityimpact.com/austin/south-central-austin/government/2025/05/20/75m-license-plate sscanned-under-rebooted-austin-police-program-audit-reveals-successes-concerns/ Draft their discretion to release people on bail. We have lists of prosecutors who are – within their discretion – choosing not to pursue cases. We have lists of vendors who sell books that are disfavored. We are entering into a time period of surveillance and lists and disfavored groups by statute… We had a priority in this legislative session to look at the scourges of communism. That was one of the scourges of communism. Lists of public servants …
Introduction & Overview: Austin Equity and Inclusion Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Briefing Tuesday, August 26, 2025, 6:00 PM Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer Agenda Introductions • Who We Are Office Overview • Vision & Mission • Current Structure • Core Services Current Projects Connecting with Our Office 8/25/2025 2 OUR VISION Austin Equity and Inclusion helps shape a community and city government where every individual feels welcomed and has the resources and services they need to thrive. We’re dedicated to transforming systems to increase access, remove barriers to opportunity, address discrimination, and foster a community where all identities are respected. 8/25/2025 3 Austin Equity and Inclusion (AEI) AEI Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director Civil Rights Division Equity Division Human Rights Division Enrique Serrano, Civil Rights Officer Vacant, Equity Officer Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer 8/25/2025 4 Introductions Shafina Khaki Human Rights Officer Dr. Lindsey Wilson Director Enrique Serrano Civil Rights Officer 5 CORE SERVICES Promote Human Rights: Provide advocacy and direct services that help residents access benefits, understand their rights, and connect to resources that uphold safety, dignity, and well-being. Carry Out the City’s Strategic Goals: Increase access, remove barriers to opportunities, and create inclusive spaces where all identities feel respected, seen, and valued. Provide Anti-Discrimination Protections: Investigate discrimination complaints related to Housing, Employment, Public Accommodations, and Fair Chance Hiring. City Ordinance Enforcement: Uphold the CROWN Act, Tenant’s Rights to Organize and other Key City Ordinances. Equity: Work to reduce racial and socioeconomic disparities by collaborating with all City departments to help identify and remove barriers in services. Community Engagement and Outreach: Build collaborative community relationships to advance Equity and improve the quality of life for Austinites. 8/25/2025 The items listed above represent key examples, though the list is not exhaustive. 6 Current Projects EQUITY CIVIL RIGHTS HUMAN RIGHTS • Quality of Life Studies • Mini-Grants • Equity Action Team & Equity Network Meetings • Normalize, Organize and Operationalize... 8/25/20 25 • Enforcing Civil Rights Laws Across • Know Your Rights/Benefits Multiple Sectors, leveraging technology to advance rights. • Collaborates with Community Members, Businesses, and Stakeholders: • Partnering with other agencies to promote civil rights initiatives (Immigrants, Veterans, ADA) • Advances the fundamental rights and freedoms of all Austinites • Anti-Hate/We All Belong • Community Meetings/Foster Belonging The items listed above represent key examples, though the list …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: (20250826-005): Opposition to Automated License Plate Reader Programs Recommendation The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission urges City Council to reject any future proposals to implement automated (A.I.) license plate reader (ALPR) surveillance programs. Description of Recommendation to Council Although the trial period for the Austin Police Department’s use of automated (A.I.) license plate readers ended earlier this summer, Council must listen to the people of Austin and protect their privacy and safety by rejecting any future proposals to implement any A.I. surveillance technology. It is the recommendation of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Committee that Council reject any future proposals to fund or implement ALPRs. Rationale: From March through December of 2024, automated license plate readers (ALPR) scanned more than 75 million license plates across Austin as part of an APD trial program. While Council’s approved policy stated that license plate data must be deleted within one week, that was not the reality of the program. According to a recent audit, contractor Flock Safety retained "non-exclusive, worldwide, perpetual, royalty-free right and license" to indefinitely use license plate information scanned across Austin.1 What this means is that the data connected to the millions of license plates scanned under this program were not protected. This program puts the data of Austinites at risk. Consider what Texas State Senator Sarah Eckhardt, who represents much of Austin, said on the floor of the Texas Senate just last week during the hearing for HB521: “We’re in the process of creating a number of lists, and this is of great concern. We have a number of bills this session… that create lists of people as if we are preparing to shoot fish in a barrel… We have lists of individuals who are public servants who are trying to assist people to vote. We have lists of judges who are using 1https://communityimpact.com/austin/south-central-austin/government/2025/05/20/75m-license-plate sscanned-under-rebooted-austin-police-program-audit-reveals-successes-concerns/ their discretion to release people on bail. We have lists of prosecutors who are – within their discretion – choosing not to pursue cases. We have lists of vendors who sell books that are disfavored. We are entering into a time period of surveillance and lists and disfavored groups by statute… We had a priority in this legislative session to look at the scourges of communism. That was one of the scourges of communism. Lists of public servants that …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION July 22, 2025, 6:00 P.M. City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room #1101 301 West 2nd St Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory 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 Christi Vitela, 512- 974-2792, christi.vitela@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Amanda Afifi, Chair Yesenia Ramos, Vice Chair Dulce Castañeda Lyssette Galvan Kevin Jackson Jr Johanna Moya Fábregas Brian Peña Jesús Perales Melissa Ruiz Daniela Silva AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 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 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission special called meeting on June 26, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion of accessibility frameworks and Latine community needs and usage of the City of Austin digital products with Luisa Apolaya Torres, Sr. Service Designer, Communications & Technology Management. 3. Presentation regarding Know Your Rights, Annie Fierro, Workers Defense Action Fund. 4. Discussion of the City of Austin Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Proposed Budget DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding funding for Academia Cuauhtli. 6. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the Office of Community Liaison. 7. Approve the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review. 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 City Clerk’s Department, at 512-974-2792, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission please contact Christi Vitela at 512-974-2792 or christi.vitela@austintexas.gov.
Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission June 26, 2025 HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES Thursday, June 26, 2025 The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission convened in a special called meeting on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St in Austin, Texas. Commissioner Afifi called the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Amanda Afifi Melissa Ruiz Brian Peña Yesenia Ramos Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Dulce Castañeda Jesús Perales PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on March 25, 2025. The minutes from the meeting on March 25, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Perales’ motion, Commissioner Castañeda’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Galvan, Jackson, Moya Fábregas, and Silva were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation regarding the need for funding for Academia Cuauhtli. The presentation was made by Dr. María Unda, Academia Cuauhtli. 1 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission June 26, 2025 3. Update from the Joint Inclusion Committee representative on the work of the committee from the past three months. Commissioner Afifi provided an update. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM 4. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair. The motion to approve Commissioner Afifi as Chair was approved on Commissioner Peña’s motion, Commissioner Castañeda’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Galvan, Jackson, Moya Fábregas, and Silva were absent. The motion to approve Commissioner Ramos as Vice Chair was approved on Commissioner Ramos’ motion, Commissioner Peña’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Galvan, Jackson, Moya Fábregas, and Silva were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Recommendation for support of Academia Cuauhtli Recommendation regarding the Office of Community Liaison Communications and Technology Management Presentation Know Your Rights Presentation Director of Office of Equity and Inclusion ADJOURNMENT The motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:05 p.m. was approved on Vice Chair Peña’s motion, Commissioner Ramos’ second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Galvan, Jackson, Moya Fábregas, and Silva were absent. 2
Access and Use of City of Austin’s Digital Products Seeking Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Committee’s Perspective Luisa Apolaya Torres, Sr. Service Designer CTM Digital Strategies & Solutions luisa.apolayatorres@austintexas.gov Digital Strategies & Solutions Team @ CTM Human-centered design Accessibility Virtual Reality AI Governance Forms Consolidation User Testing UX Design Advocating for great digital experiences for all city residents. What are digital products? City of Austin’s Website Service Portals (Austin 311 Online Portal, City of Austin Utilities, etc) Mobile Apps (CapMetro, Austin 311) Community Outreach Groups (Austin Public Health) Access and Use of City of Austin’s Digital Products What factors can affect access and use? Digital literacy Findability of information English literacy Familiarity with resources provided by the city Trust in the product to find accurate information What does the use of digital products by the Latine community in Austin look like? What products do they access? How do they access? When do they access? What is their relationship with these products? Factors for Access and Use Digital literacy Findability of information English literacy Familiarity with resources provided by the city Trust in the product to find accurate information What can a reimagining of digital products accessible to the Latine community in Austin look like? What needs are already identified, if any? Are there opportunities to improve a current product? Are there opportunities to create a new digital product?
HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250722-005 Description of Recommendation to Council The City of Austin needs to ensure equitable funding regarding youth recreational and educational programs. Residents have expressed continued concerns regarding the lack of culturally and linguistically research-based services for children and youth. We need to continue to sustain and expand cultural and multilingual programming for Austin students. Date: July 22, 2025 Subject: FY26 Budget Recommendations Motioned By: Commissioner Recommendation Support for Academia Cuauhtli Programming and Expansion Seconded By: Commissioner D R A F T There is a lack of places where youth can go to connect with their culture and heritage while simultaneously being provided academic support and life skills. Academia Cuauhtli is a free culture and language revitalization academy for school children and their parents. They use a curriculum focused on Indigeneity, social justice, Tejano history, traditional arts, and danza Mexica. The program serves working class, mostly Mexican, immigrant communities whose children attend schools within Austin Independent School District (AISD). The program embraces Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center’s (ESB- MACC) mission of collaborative engagement in service to our communities. Academia Cuauhtli also fulfills its mission through teacher preparation and mentorship by creating teacher support networks, hosting professional training workshops and conferences. programs; and Rationale ● Allocate $106,000 for Academia Cuauhtli’s culturally and linguistically diverse arts ● Allocate $80,000 to create a full-time Culture and Arts Education Supervisor. The Bilingual Cultural Revitalization Saturday Academy offers ethnic studies and Danza Mexica instruction to AISD third- to fifth-graders at no cost, including breakfast and transportation. They serve an average of 200 students, 70 public school teachers, and 10 graduate students per year. The Saturday school runs from September through May. Academica Cuauhtli also has a summer STREAM Program in June and July. The interdisciplinary summer program integrates science, technology, reading, engineering, arts, and math with cultural learning. Additionally, a collaborative team conducts qualitative and quantitative research to document their programs’ impacts and to inform their practices. Teacher professional development is ongoing and led by university faculty, and it is tailored for Latinx and Indigenous educators. The professional development program runs from September through August. Academia Cuauhtli also has a transnational teacher preparation initiative (La Colaborativa) that bridges educators in Mexico and the U.S., and focuses on bilingual and culturally responsive pedagogy. Nuestro Grupo is a community-based collective of teachers, parents, and scholars that meet weekly …
Expansion and Empowerment of the Community Liaison Office Proposal to Expand and Elevate the Austin Police Department Community Liaison Office Overview: In order to strengthen community policing, build trust with minoritized communities, and ensure that feedback from impacted groups shapes department policy and practice, we propose expanding and elevating the Community Liaison Office within the Austin Police Department (APD). Key Changes Proposed: ● Structural Elevation: Move the Community Liaison Office out of the Public Information Office (PIO) and establish it as an independent division that reports directly to the Chief of Police (or a designated Assistant Chief). ● Role Expansion: Assign both a civilian liaison and a sworn officer liaison for each major minoritized community (such as LGBTQ+, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, Asian American/Pacific Islander, and Women). These teams would work in close partnership, giving community members the choice of engaging with a civilian or a sworn officer depending on the nature of their concern. ● Formalization of Sworn Officer Roles: Formalize the currently unofficial liaison roles many sworn officers already fulfill, making community liaison work an official, recognized part of their job duties and workload. ● Direct Communication Channels: Create dedicated public contact points (e.g., phone hotline numbers and emails) for each liaison team, and ensure they are prominently available on the APD website and communications. ● Training Responsibilities: Liaison officers would assist in training the broader police force on issues specific to their communities, such as: ○ Correct use of pronouns and respectful engagement with transgender residents ○ Cultural sensitivity and best practices for interacting with various minoritized groups ○ Awareness of systemic issues and culturally competent policing ● Commission and JIC Engagement: Require that liaisons regularly engage with their corresponding City of Austin Quality of Draft Life Commissions (e.g., the Asian American QOL Commission, the LGBTQIA+ Commission) and provide updates and receive input. The liaisons should act as bridges between community representation bodies and APD leadership. ● Policy Feedback Role: Empower liaison teams to provide policy recommendations to APD leadership informed by the needs of their respective communities, ensuring direct integration of lived experiences into policing policy. Goals of This Proposal: ● Create more accessible, transparent, and culturally competent channels for communication between APD and minoritized communities. ● Ensure that community voices—especially those represented by the city's various commissions and the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC)—are actively heard and integrated into APD policies and practices. ● Build lasting trust …
Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission The Board/Commission mission statement (per the City Code) is: § 2-1-146 - HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION. This report covers the time period of 7/1/2024 to 6/30/2025. Annual Internal Review D R A F T (B) The commission shall advise the City Council on issues relating to the quality of life for the City's Hispanic/Latino community and shall recommend programs and policies designed to alleviate any inequities that may confront Hispanics and Latinos in social, economic, and vocational pursuits including education, youth services, housing and community development, cultural arts, economic development, health, civic engagement, and transportation. 1. Describe the board’s actions supporting their mission during the previous calendar year. Address all elements of the board’s mission statement as provided in the relevant sections of the City Code. (A) The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission should have a balanced membership reflecting in-depth knowledge of the challenges and concerns of the Hispanic/Latino community. The City Council should appoint persons who are representative of or sensitive to the needs of the Hispanic/Latino community in the City of Austin. The Commission received staff and community briefings and provided feedback to various departments on issues. This year included the following presentations: ● Demographic data briefing from the City of Austin Demographer Office presented by Lila Valencia, City Demographer. ● Austin/Travis County Food Plan briefing from the Office of Sustainability presented by Amanda Rohlich, Business Process Consultant Sr., Food Policy Advisor. ● Affordable Child Care in the greater Austin area presented by Cathy McHorse, Early Childhood Consultant. Unda. ● Equity Based Preservation Plan briefing from the Planning Department presented by Cara Bertron, Program Manager II, Planning. ● Anti-Defamation League Austin on their work locally in combatting antisemitism, hate and extremism presented by Courtney Toretto, Director of Policy for the Central Division. ● Austin-Travis County Family Child Care Educators Network briefing from Austin Public Health presented by Caitlin Oliver, Early Childhood Program Coordinator. ● Small Business Division briefing from the Economic Development Department presented by Dannny Brewer, Program Manager. ● Drive a Senior ATX presented by Jill Skinner, Executive Director. ● Immigrant Affairs briefing from the Equity and Inclusion Office presented by Rocío Villalobos, Immigrant Affairs manager and DACA Liaison Officer. ● American Gateways regarding their work in the Austin community providing legal services to the low income and immigrant communities presented by Rebecca Lightsey, Co-Executive …
HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250722-005 Support for Academia Cuauhtli Programming and Expansion Date: July 22, 2025 Subject: FY26 Budget Recommendations Motioned By: Commissioner Perales Seconded By: Commissioner Silva Recommendation The City of Austin needs to ensure equitable funding regarding youth recreational and educational programs. Residents have expressed continued concerns regarding the lack of culturally and linguistically research-based services for children and youth. We need to continue to sustain and expand cultural and multilingual programming for Austin students. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Allocate $106,000 for Academia Cuauhtli’s culturally and linguistically diverse arts programs; and ● Allocate $80,000 to create a full-time Culture and Arts Education Supervisor. Rationale There is a lack of places where youth can go to connect with their culture and heritage while simultaneously being provided academic support and life skills. Academia Cuauhtli is a free culture and language revitalization academy for school children and their parents. They use a curriculum focused on Indigeneity, social justice, Tejano history, traditional arts, and danza Mexica. The program serves working class, mostly Mexican, immigrant communities whose children attend schools within Austin Independent School District (AISD). The program embraces Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center’s (ESB- MACC) mission of collaborative engagement in service to our communities. Academia Cuauhtli also fulfills its mission through teacher preparation and mentorship by creating teacher support networks, hosting professional training workshops and conferences. The Bilingual Cultural Revitalization Saturday Academy offers ethnic studies and Danza Mexica instruction to AISD third- to fifth-graders at no cost, including breakfast and transportation. They serve an average of 200 students, 70 public school teachers, and 10 graduate students per year. The Saturday school runs from September through May. Academica Cuauhtli also has a summer STREAM Program in June and July. The interdisciplinary summer program integrates science, technology, reading, engineering, arts, and math with cultural learning. Additionally, a collaborative team conducts qualitative and quantitative research to document their programs’ impacts and to inform their practices. Teacher professional development is ongoing and led by university faculty, and it is tailored for Latinx and Indigenous educators. The professional development program runs from September through August. Academia Cuauhtli also has a transnational teacher preparation initiative (La Colaborativa) that bridges educators in Mexico and the U.S., and focuses on bilingual and culturally responsive pedagogy. Nuestro Grupo is a community-based collective of teachers, parents, and scholars that meet weekly to coordinate year-round …
Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission July 22, 2025 HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, July 22, 2025 The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St in Austin, Texas. Chair Afifi called the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:11 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Amanda Afifi Brian Peña Johanna Moya Fábregas Melissa Ruiz Daniela Silva Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Dulce Castañeda Lyssette Galvan Jesús Perales PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission special called meeting on June 26, 2025. The minutes from the meeting on June 26, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Perales’ motion, Commissioner Silva’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Peña was off the dais. Commissioners Jackson and Ramos were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion of accessibility frameworks and Latine community needs and usage of the City of Austin digital products with Luisa Apolaya Torres, Sr. Service Designer, Communications & Technology Management. 1 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission July 22, 2025 The presentation was made by Luisa Apolaya Torres, Sr. Service Designer, Communications & Technology Management. 3. Presentation regarding Know Your Rights, Annie Fierro, Workers Defense Action Fund. The presentation was made by Annie Fierro, Immigration Campaign Organizer, Workers Defense Action Fund. 4. Discussion of the City of Austin Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Proposed Budget. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding funding for Academia Cuauhtli. The motion to approve a Recommendation to Council regarding funding for Academia Cuauhtli was approved on Commissioner Perales’ motion, Commissioner Silva’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Jackson and Ramos were absent. 6. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the Office of Community Liaison. Discussed. 7. Approve the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review. The motion to approve the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review with the following amendments was approved on Commissioner Silva’s motion, Commissioner Moya Fábregas’ second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Jackson and Ramos were absent. The amendments were to revise page 2 to strike “Afifi, Silva, Galvan, and Perales” and to replace “one virtual and two in person” with “two virtual and one in person.” The amendments were to …
