REGULAR MEETING OF THE HISPANIC LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION TUESDAY, JULY 28, 2026, 6:00 PM AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W 2nd STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 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, contact Nekaybaw Watson at nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2562. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Lyssette Galvan, Chair Amanda Afifi Andrea Flores Yesenia Ramos AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Dulce Castañeda, Vice Chair Elizabeth Morales Jesús Perales Melissa Ruiz 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 23, 2026. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing from Austin Public Health regarding general information on the Domestic Violence Center. Presentation by Laura LaFuente, Assistant Director, Austin Public Health and Akeshia Johnson Smothers, Program Manager III, Austin Public Health. 3. Staff briefing from Austin Police Department regarding the transition of the Eloise House to Brave. Presentation by Kachina Clark, Division Manager, Austin Police and Marcy Alonzo, Sexual Assault Response and Resource Team (SARRT) Coordinator, Austin Police. 4. Staff briefing from Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment (ACME) regarding Spanish Language support for ACME funding programs. Presentation by Morgan Messick, Assistant Director, ACME and Laura Odegaard, Division Manager – Cultural Affairs and Investments, ACME. 5. Staff briefing regarding the 2026 East Austin Historic Resource Survey. Presentation by Sofia Wagner, Planner III, Austin Planning. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve a revision of the bylaws to add public safety to the purpose and duties. 7. Approve a Recommendation to Council to Protect Language Access Programs. 8. Approve a Recommendation to Council to Protect SAFE Alliance and Eloise House 9. Approve a Recommendation to Council to Protect Mental Health Services 10. Approve a Recommendation to Protect Community Hubs and Organizations with Wraparound Services. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The …
Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission June 23, 2026 HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, JUNE 23, 2026 The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at Permitting and Development Center, room 1401. Chair Galvan called the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:06 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Lysette Galvan, Chair Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Dulce Castañeda, Vice Chair Andrea Flores Elizabeth Morales Yesenia Ramos Melissa Ruiz 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 4, 2026. The minutes from the meeting on June 4, 2026, were approved during the June 23, 2026 meeting on Vice Chair Castañeda’s motion, Commissioner Morales’ second on a 6-0 vote. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding Levers of Economic Mobility Index. Presentation by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr, Austin Equity and Inclusion and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity and Inclusion. The briefing was given by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr, Austin Equity and Inclusion and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity and Inclusion. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission June 23, 2026 3. Discussion regarding the Grant Process Working Group. Discussed. 4. Discussion regarding goals and objectives of the commission for the upcoming year. Discussed. 5. Discussion regarding a review of the bylaws. Discussed. 6. Discussion regarding a new quality of life study for the Hispanic / Latino community for FY 2027. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the Austin Resilience Network. The motion to approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the Austin Resilience Network was approved on Commissioner Ramos’ motion, Commissioner Ruiz’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Afifi and Perales were absent. 8. Approve the creation of a Public Health Working Group that researches health outcomes for Latino Austinites. The motion to a approve the creation of a Public Health Working group that researches health outcomes for Latino Austinites with Chair Galvan, and Commissioners Ramos and Ruiz as members was approved on Vice Chair Castañeda’s motion, Commissioner Ramos’ second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Afifi and Perales were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT Chair Galvan adjourned the meeting at 6:48 p.m. without objection. 2
East Austin Historic Resource Survey Update Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Briefing Austin Planning | July 28, 2026 Why Survey? Why Survey? Know what we have so we can better plan for the future Provide useful information to property owners Guide recommendations of City staff and the Historic Landmark Commission Inform interpretive and wayfinding projects Identify potential heritage tourism sites 2 Project Area Project Area Expanded boundaries from 2016 Updated timeframe for building age (built by 1983) Approx. 9,000 resources on 7,100 parcels Eastern boundary of 2016 survey 2016 East Austin Survey 5,300 parcels surveyed 6,660 resources documented (built by 1971) Lady Bird Lake 3 What Does a Historic Resource Survey Do? What Does a Historic Resource Survey Do? Documents older buildings, structures, objects, and sites via: 11. Fieldwork 22. Archival research 33. Community input Provides context for how areas developed Recommends individual properties and areas for potential historic designation Does not change zoning or property tax—informational document only 4 Fieldwork 1 Fieldwork For all buildings in survey area: Photographs For buildings constructed by 1983: Architectural character and physical integrity Heritage tourism sites 5 Archival Research 2 Archival Research Expanded historic context statement for East Austin with historical trends and events through 1983 Histories of potential historic districts Occupancy histories of properties that retain integrity Images from Austin History Center, Austin Public Library 6 Community Input 3 Community Input Community questionnaire: Provide context not found in archives Identify additional significant places Oral histories 7 Recommendations Recommendations 1. Compile archival research findings 2. 3. Integrate community input Identify historical themes and trends 4. Evaluate eligibility for local and National Register historic designation 5. Assess potential historic district boundaries 8 What Happens After a Survey? What Happens After a Survey? Outreach and workshops for owners of properties identified as eligible for historic designation Heritage Preservation Grant outreach to eligible sites that serve tourists 2016 Survey Recommendations by the Numbers 298 potential historic landmarks 24 potential historic districts 337 properties eligible for individual National Register listing 9 Project Timeline Project Timeline INFORMATION COLLECTION Field survey Archival research Community input PRELIMINARY RECOMMENDATIONS • Public feedback on draft report SURVEY RECOMMENDATIONS • Final report • Targeted follow up 2026 2027 2028 10 Project Timeline t n …
East Austin Historic Resource Survey Update Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Briefing Austin Planning | July 28, 2026 Why Survey? Why Survey? Know what we have so we can better plan for the future Provide useful information to property owners Guide recommendations of City staff and the Historic Landmark Commission Inform interpretive and wayfinding projects Identify potential heritage tourism sites 2 Project Area Project Area Expanded boundaries from 2016 Updated timeframe for building age (built by 1983) Approx. 9,000 resources on 7,100 parcels Eastern boundary of 2016 survey 2016 East Austin Survey 5,300 parcels surveyed 6,660 resources documented (built by 1971) Lady Bird Lake 3 What Does a Historic Resource Survey Do? What Does a Historic Resource Survey Do? Documents older buildings, structures, objects, and sites via: 11. Fieldwork 22. Archival research 33. Community input Provides context for how areas developed Recommends individual properties and areas for potential historic designation Does not change zoning or property tax—informational document only 4 Fieldwork 1 Fieldwork For all buildings in survey area: Photographs For buildings constructed by 1983: Architectural character and physical integrity Heritage tourism sites 5 Archival Research 2 Archival Research Expanded historic context statement for East Austin with historical trends and events through 1983 Histories of potential historic districts Occupancy histories of properties that retain integrity Images from Austin History Center, Austin Public Library 6 Community Input 3 Community Input Community questionnaire: Provide context not found in archives Identify additional significant places Oral histories 7 Recommendations Recommendations 1. Compile archival research findings 2. 3. Integrate community input Identify historical themes and trends 4. Evaluate eligibility for local and National Register historic designation 5. Assess potential historic district boundaries 8 What Happens After a Survey? What Happens After a Survey? Outreach and workshops for owners of properties identified as eligible for historic designation Heritage Preservation Grant outreach to eligible sites that serve tourists 2016 Survey Recommendations by the Numbers 298 potential historic landmarks 24 potential historic districts 337 properties eligible for individual National Register listing 9 Project Timeline Project Timeline INFORMATION COLLECTION Field survey Archival research Community input PRELIMINARY RECOMMENDATIONS • Public feedback on draft report SURVEY RECOMMENDATIONS • Final report • Targeted follow up 2026 2027 2028 10 Project Timeline t n …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resources Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: [20260728-007]: Recommendation on the Language Access Programs Date of Approval: July 28, 2026 Recommendation: The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission commends the Austin City Council for maintaining funding for language access services across City departments during the FY 2026-2027 budget process. The Commission recommends that Council continue prioritizing language access as an essential City service and ensure future investments sustain multilingual communication, interpretation, translation, and culturally responsive outreach so that all Austin residents can meaningfully access City programs, services, and civic engagement opportunities. Description of Recommendation to Council: Language access is a cornerstone of equitable government services. Austin’s diverse communities rely on multilingual communication to access public health information, emergency notifications, housing resources, transportation services, social services, and opportunities to participate in local government. The Commission recognizes the City’s continued investments in language access initiatives, including the Communications and Public Information Office (CPIO), the iSpeak Language Access Program, and departmental language access efforts that help ensure residents with limited English proficiency can receive information and services in a language they understand. These investments support: ● Translation and interpretation services across City departments. ● Multilingual public communications and emergency notifications. ● Greater access to City programs and services. ● Increased civic participation through language-accessible meetings, materials, and community engagement. ● More equitable delivery of public services for Austin’s diverse communities. By maintaining these investments, the City continues to reduce barriers to accessing essential services and strengthens trust between local government and the communities it serves. Rationale: During our Public Health Workgroup meeting with community members, participants consistently identified language access as an essential component of public health, community safety, and equitable access to City services. Participants emphasized that language access extends beyond translation documents, it also includes: ● Culturally responsive outreach ● Trusted community partnerships ● Ensures residents receive accurate information in ways that are accessible and meaningful Workgroup members also discussed the growing concerns among immigrant and mixed-status families about accessing services due to fears surrounding immigration enforcement. In this environment, clear multilingual communication and trusted access points are increasingly important to ensure residents understand available services and feel safe seeking assistance. The Commission appreciates that language access services were not proposed for funding reductions during this budget cycle and encourages the City to continue treating language access as essential infrastructure that supports equity, public health, …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resources Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: [20260728-008]: Recommendation on SAFE Alliance & Eloise House Date of Approval: July 28, 2026 Recommendation: The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission recommends that the Austin City Council, in partnership with Travis County, ensure that Austin's response to domestic and sexual violence is grounded in a survivor-centered, trauma-informed continuum of care by maintaining investment in SAFE Alliance's survivor services and strengthening partnerships with SAFE Alliance to ensure survivors have seamless access to community-based advocacy, forensic services, shelter, counseling, legal services, and culturally responsive support. The Commission further recommends that the City prioritizes care models that minimize retraumatization and reduce barriers to accessing services, recognizing that trauma-informed care extends beyond the forensic exam and includes immediate advocacy, continuity of care, and coordinated wraparound services. The Commission also recommends that the City continues evaluating Austin's forensic exam system through meaningful engagement with survivors, advocates, and community-based organizations to ensure operational and funding decisions are guided by trauma-informed best practices and centered on the needs of survivors. Description of Recommendation to Council: SAFE Alliance has long operated Eloise House, Austin’s only community-based, non-hospital forensic exam center. The model integrates forensic nursing, crisis advocacy, legal services, shelter, counseling, and culturally responsive support into a coordinated continuum of care centered on survivor needs. Unlike a traditional hospital setting, Eloise House was intentionally designed to reduce trauma by providing: ● Trauma-informed forensic care ● A community-based setting outside the emergency room ● Services at no cost to survivors ● Advocates who remain with survivors throughout the forensic exam process ● Immediate connection to wraparound services, including shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and safety planning SAFE Alliance currently provides approximately: ● 600 forensic exams annually ● Services to more than 700 survivors each day ● More than 27,000 SAFEline contacts each year ● Services in which approximately 50% of clients identify as Hispanic/Latinx ● Approximately 95% of regional forensic exams were through Eloise House (prior to ending the forensic exams) Although the transition of forensic exams has occurred, the Commission remains concerned that separating forensic exams from SAFE Alliance’s integrated advocacy model may increase barriers to care for survivors. The Commission believes Austin should continue strengthening partnerships with SAFE Alliance to ensure survivors have seamless access to advocacy, wraparound services, and culturally responsive support throughout the forensic exam process and beyond. It is equally critical …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resources Advisory Commission Recommendation Number:[20260728-009]: Recommendation on Protecting Mental Health Services Date of Approval: July 28, 2026 Recommendation: The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission recommends that the Austin City Council prioritize funding for community-based mental health prevention, early intervention, and diversion services during the FY 2026-2027 budget process and avoid reductions to programs that prevent behavioral health crises, improve access to care, and promote long-term community well-being. The Commission further recommends that Council continue prioritizing investments that address mental health before individuals reach crisis, recognizing that prevention-focused services improve health outcomes, reduce reliance on emergency response systems, and strengthen economic stability for individuals and families. Description of Recommendation to Council: Mental health is a public health issue that affects every aspect of an individual’s quality of life, including housing stability, educational attainment, employment, family well-being, and community safety. During our Public Health Workgroup meeting with community members, participants consistently identified prevention, early intervention, and diversion as priorities that should remain protected during the City’s budget process. Participants emphasized the importance of expanding access to community-based mental health services before residents experience crises requiring emergency rooms, law enforcement involvement, or hospitalization. The workgroup discussed the value of innovative service delivery models, including rapid- access behavioral health services, telehealth, and diversion initiatives that connect residents to care quickly while reducing barriers related to transportation, cost, language, and stigma. Participants also emphasized the importance of culturally responsive and bilingual services that meet the needs of Austin’s increasingly diverse population. Rationale: Public investment in prevention is both fiscally responsible and essential to improving community health outcomes. Workgroup participants emphasized that the City’s behavioral health investments should prioritize prevention alongside crisis response, recognizing that early intervention reduces long-term costs while improving quality of life. Research discussed during the meeting noted that diversion programs can save approximately seven dollars for every dollar invested through reduced involvement with emergency response systems and the criminal legal system. Investing in prevention reduces demand on emergency rooms, law enforcement, jails, and other acute and high-cost systems while connecting residents to appropriate care earlier. The Commission recognizes that final funding recommendations are still under development for social services contracts. Regardless of which contracts are ultimately proposed for reduction, the Commission encourages the Austin City Council to prioritize investments that strengthen prevention, improve equitable access to behavioral health care, and support community well- …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resources Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: [20260728-010]: Recommendation on Community-Based Organizations Date of Approval: July 28, 2029 Recommendation: The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission recommends that the Austin City Council prioritize continued investment in community-based organizations that provide wraparound services and avoid funding reductions that would diminish the capacity of trusted organizations serving Austin residents. The Commission further recommends that budget decisions recognize community-based organizations as essential public health infrastructure because they serve as community hubs that connect residents to multiple services, provide culturally responsive support, and address complex and interconnected needs. If reductions to community-based contracts are being considered, the Commission recommends that the City evaluate the potential long-term fiscal impacts of those reductions, including the potential increased demand on crisis response systems, healthcare services, housing interventions, and other publicly funded programs. Description of Recommendation to Council: Families rarely experience challenges in isolation. Individuals seeking assistance with housing instability may also require food assistance, behavioral health services, workforce development, childcare, legal assistance, transportation support, or assistance navigating public benefits. Community-based organizations serve as accessible entry points that help residents navigate these interconnected systems while providing services rooted in the communities they serve. During our Public Health Workgroup meeting with community members, participants emphasized the importance of protecting organizations that function as community hubs by providing multiple services under one roof or connecting residents to coordinated networks of care. Participants also highlighted the importance of ensuring these spaces remain welcoming, trusted, and accessible for immigrant and mixed-status families who may be hesitant to seek services through traditional government systems. Rationale: Community-based organizations represent critical public health infrastructure in our city. Their work extends beyond direct service delivery by strengthening neighborhood relationships, connecting residents to available resources, preventing crises before they occur, and improving long-term health and economic outcomes. Reducing funding for community-based organizations does not eliminate community need, it reduces the community’s capacity to respond. Funding reductions may result in fewer staff, reduced operating hours, longer wait times, and diminished access to essential services at a time when many organizations are already experiencing increased demand. The Commission also recommends that any proposed reductions to community-based service contracts include consideration of the long-term fiscal impacts associated with reduced access to prevention and early intervention services. When residents lose access to community supports, unmet needs may escalate and result in increased utilization of higher-cost …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resources Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: [20260728-010]: Recommendation on Community-Based Organizations Date of Approval: Recommendation: The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission recommends that the Austin City Council prioritize continued investment in community-based organizations that provide wraparound services and avoid funding reductions that would diminish the capacity of trusted organizations serving Austin residents. The Commission further recommends that budget decisions recognize community-based organizations as essential public health infrastructure because they serve as community hubs that connect residents to multiple services, provide culturally responsive support, and address complex and interconnected needs. If reductions to community-based contracts are being considered, the Commission recommends that the City evaluate the potential long-term fiscal impacts of those reductions, including the potential increased demand on crisis response systems, healthcare services, housing interventions, and other publicly funded programs. Description of Recommendation to Council: Families rarely experience challenges in isolation. Individuals seeking assistance with housing instability may also require food assistance, behavioral health services, workforce development, childcare, legal assistance, transportation support, or assistance navigating public benefits. Community-based organizations serve as accessible entry points that help residents navigate these interconnected systems while providing services rooted in the communities they serve. During our Public Health Workgroup meeting with community members, participants emphasized the importance of protecting organizations that function as community hubs by providing multiple services under one roof or connecting residents to coordinated networks of care. Participants also highlighted the importance of ensuring these spaces remain welcoming, trusted, and accessible for immigrant and mixed-status families who may be hesitant to seek services through traditional government systems. Rationale: Community-based organizations represent critical public health infrastructure in our city. Their work extends beyond direct service delivery by strengthening neighborhood relationships, connecting residents to available resources, preventing crises before they occur, and improving long-term health and economic outcomes. Reducing funding for community-based organizations does not eliminate community need, it reduces the community’s capacity to respond. Funding reductions may result in fewer staff, reduced operating hours, longer wait times, and diminished access to essential services at a time when many organizations are already experiencing increased demand. The Commission also recommends that any proposed reductions to community-based service contracts include consideration of the long-term fiscal impacts associated with reduced access to prevention and early intervention services. When residents lose access to community supports, unmet needs may escalate and result in increased utilization of higher-cost crisis systems, including …
City of Austin Domestic Violence Shelter Austin Public Health | July 28, 2026 The Need ▪ 10-Year Family Violence Trends in Austin (2015–2024) ▪ 2015–2019: Family violence remained consistently high, with gradual increases driven by Austin's population growth. ▪ 2020–2021: The COVID-19 pandemic led to increased risk factors and higher demand for domestic violence services. ▪ 2022–2024: Incidents stabilized but remained above pre-pandemic levels, with continued high demand for shelter, legal advocacy, and support services. ▪ Current Trend: Family violence continues to be a significant public safety and public health issue, resulting in thousands of criminal cases and hundreds of protective order requests each year. 2 Background and History ▪ FY2020-21 budget process: $2M and $100,000 (one-time) in city general funds to invest in the management of a new family violence shelter. ▪ December 2020 - March 2021: Competitive solicitation to operate the City-owned shelter, expanding Austin's coordinated response to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and exploitation. SAFE Alliance selected to operate the City-owned shelter, expanding Austin's coordinated response to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and exploitation. ▪ Summer of 2021: Due to the source of the funding, the original location could not be used as the domestic violence shelter, and a new location needed to be identified and purchased. 3 Background and History ▪ April 28, 2022: City officially purchased a new location for the domestic violence shelter. ▪ May 2024: Council approved $8.58 million for renovation and construction. ▪ August 2024: City began construction on the site. ▪ Converted a former Super 8 Motel into a trauma-informed shelter for women and children experiencing domestic violence. ▪ The motel’s 62 guest rooms were converted into 40 rooms for residents. ▪ The pool was replaced with an outdoor children’s play area. 4 Opening of the Shelter ▪ September 10, 2025 - Ribbon Cutting 5 Shelter Services The SAFE Alliance is the operator of the shelter and provides: ▪ Emergency transportation and rapid placement into a safe shelter. ▪ Counseling and support groups. ▪ Safety planning and case management focused on housing stability. ▪ Connection to healthcare benefits. ▪ Educational advocacy for K-12 students. ▪ Children's Services program to build skills and resiliency. ▪ Legal advocacy. ▪ Peer support, life skills programming, and career/education access. 6 Investments - $3,294,291 Program Domestic Violence Shelter Victim Services FY 2026 Budget $2,000,000 $967,975 Bridge to Safety $117,000 ER …
Forensic Exam Services Transition Plan Austin Police & SARRT | July 28, 2026 Presentation Overview ▪ Objective ▪ Focus Areas To provide information on forensic exam services from SAFE Alliance to Brave Alliance ▪ Context & Background ▪ Austin/Travis County SARRT Recommendation ▪ Brave Alliance Overview ▪ Brave Data (June) ▪ Advocacy Services Overview ▪ Challenges & Risks ▪ Monitoring System Integrity 2 Context & Background ▪ For over a decade SAFE’s Eloise House provided co-located forensic exam and advocacy services in Austin/Travis County ▪ Timeline of Service Cessation ▪ January 5, 2026: Letter to City officials urging them to reverse funding cuts ▪ February 23, 2026: Letter to City & State officials informing of possible service cessation on May 31, 2026 ▪ March 12, 2026: SAFE CEO presented at SARRT regarding next steps ▪ May 7, 2026: Notice sent terminating SAFE’s Sexual Assault Forensic Exam Services Agreement with the City of Austin and cease providing forensic examinations at Eloise House effective June 8, 2026 ▪ June 8, 2026: Last day of service 3 A/TC SARRT Recommendation ▪ April 3, 2026: Call to Action Letter ▪ Ensure equitable law enforcement ▪ Recognize all providers as essential. Any path forward must sustain both and any other providers who meet the Forensic Exam Requirements established by the A/TC SARRT. ▪ Establish equitable contracts with hospital networks who are legislatively mandated to provide forensic exam services, and ensure they bear an appropriate share of responsibility. contracts with all qualified providers, recognizing that forensic examinations are integral to the criminal justice process and must be resourced accordingly. ▪ Pursue a City or County owned facility, that is survivor oriented, strategically located to provide sustainable, geographically accessible coverage as a long-term infrastructure investment. 4 Brave Alliance Overview ▪ Establishment ▪ Founded 2018 ▪ A/TC SARRT Member since 2019 ▪ Staff ▪ 17 Nurses ▪ 1 Bilingual (Spanish) ▪ Contracts ▪ APD ▪ TCSO-PREA only ▪ 3 local hospital systems ▪ St. David’s ▪ Ascencion ▪ Baylor Scott & White 5 Brave Alliance Data June 1-30, 2026 July 1-15, 2026 Exams at Brave Exams at Hospital Total: 18 16 34 10 8 19* (1 Exam in jail) 6 Advocacy Services Overview ▪ Texas Government Code 420 ▪ Requires that survivors be offered the opportunity to have a confidential community advocate present during both the forensic exam and law enforcement interviews ▪ Current Providers ▪ SAFE Alliance …
Funding Programs Update Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment | July 27, 2026 ACME Grant History ▪ February 2025: ACME Formed ▪ Summer 2025: Creative Reset Phase I → ACME Grant Guidelines ▪ FY26 ACME Grant Application Cycle ▪ Applications Open (October – December 2025) ▪ Evaluation/Scoring (January – February 2026) ▪ Awards announced in March 2026 ▪ Feedback of FY26 Application Cycle to inform FY27 enhancements (January – April 2026) ▪ FY27 ACME Grant Application Cycle ▪ Applications Open (July 7 – August 18, 2026) ▪ Evaluation/Scoring (September- October 2026) ▪ Awards announced in November 2026 ▪ Feedback of FY27 Application Cycle to inform FY28 enhancements (Sept – Dec 2026) 2 2026 ACME Funding Programs Application window: October 21 - December 19, 2025 Contract window: Jan – Dec 2026 (or Dec 2027, if a two year award) Note: BEFORE enhancements were made FY26 Application Assistance ▪ 10 Workshops (6 In Person; 4 Virtual) ▪ 168 Attendees (18 total hours) ▪ Opportunities in English, Spanish, ASL; Recordings on website ▪ 14 Open Office Hours sessions (virtual and in-person) • 362 Attendees (364 total hours) ▪ 142+ 1:1 Meetings via Bookings ▪ 158 Attendees (71 hours) ▪ 20+ Community Events ▪ 2,050 attendees (40 total hours) 493 hours of assistance 2,738 people assisted ▪ The Long Center: Email ApplicationHelp@thelongcenter.org; (512) 457-5161 (M-F, 9-11am) ▪ 17,000+ Direct Messages sent to help shepherd potential applicants through pipeline 4 Award Announcements! ▪ 731 Awards announced on March 16th (1,606 applications submitted) ▪ $24+ million in grant awards ($67+ million in requests) Austin Live Music Fund Creative Space Assistance Program • 399 awards • $7.14 million • 22 awards • $1.32 million Elevate • 288 awards • $12.8 million Heritage Preservation Grant • 22 awards • $3 million 5 Total Applicant Demographics Race ▪ 952 White (41%) ▪ 433 Hispanic (19%) ▪ 361 Black (16%) ▪ 120 Asian (5%) Gender ▪ 892 Women (39%) ▪ 1126 Men (49%) ▪ 138 Nonbinary (6%) ▪ 158 Prefer not to say (7%) ▪ 19 Middle Eastern, North African, Arab (1%) ▪ 19 Native American (1%) LGBTQ: 604 (26%) ▪ Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander (0.2%) Disability Community: 289 (12%) ▪ 172 Multiracial (7%) Veteran: 45 (2%) ▪ 234 Prefer not to say/ not listed (10%) 6 Total Awardee Demographics Race ▪ 322 White (46.3%) ▪ 129 Hispanic (18.5%) ▪ 86 Black (12.4%) ▪ 43 Asian (6.2%) Gender ▪ 296 Women …
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 BYLAWS OF THE Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission ARTICLE 1. NAME. The name of the board is the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission. ARTICLE 2. PURPOSE AND DUTIES. The purpose and duties of the board are as follows: 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. ARTICLE 3. MEMBERSHIP. (A) The board is composed of eleven members appointed by the city council. (B) A member serves at the pleasure of the city council. (C) Board members serve for a term of four years beginning March 1st on the year of appointment. (D) An individual board member may not act in an official capacity or speak on behalf of the board except through the action of a majority of the board in which the board identifies who is authorized to speak and identifies the actions the individual board member is authorized to take or topics on which the individual board member is entitled to speak. (E) A board member who is absent for three consecutive regular meetings or one-third of all regular meetings in a “rolling” twelve month timeframe automatically vacates the member’s position subject to the holdover provisions in Section 2-1-27 of the City Code. This does not apply to an absence due to illness or injury of the board member, an illness or injury of a board member’s immediate family member, active military service, or the birth or adoption of the board member’s child for 90 days after the event. The board member must notify the staff liaison of the reason for the absence not later than the date of the next regular meeting of the board. Failure to notify the liaison before the next regular meeting of the board will result in an unexcused absence. (F) At each meeting, each board member …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resources Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: [20260728-007]: Recommendation on the Language Access Programs Date of Approval: Recommendation: The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission commends the Austin City Council for maintaining funding for language access services across City departments during the FY 2026-2027 budget process. The Commission recommends that Council continue prioritizing language access as an essential City service and ensure future investments sustain multilingual communication, interpretation, translation, and culturally responsive outreach so that all Austin residents can meaningfully access City programs, services, and civic engagement opportunities. Description of Recommendation to Council: Language access is a cornerstone of equitable government services. Austin’s diverse communities rely on multilingual communication to access public health information, emergency notifications, housing resources, transportation services, social services, and opportunities to participate in local government. The Commission recognizes the City’s continued investments in language access initiatives, including the Communications and Public Information Office (CPIO), the iSpeak Language Access Program, and departmental language access efforts that help ensure residents with limited English proficiency can receive information and services in a language they understand. These investments support: ● Translation and interpretation services across City departments. ● Multilingual public communications and emergency notifications. ● Greater access to City programs and services. ● Increased civic participation through language-accessible meetings, materials, and community engagement. ● More equitable delivery of public services for Austin’s diverse communities. By maintaining these investments, the City continues to reduce barriers to accessing essential services and strengthens trust between local government and the communities it serves. Rationale: During our Public Health Workgroup meeting with community members, participants consistently identified language access as an essential component of public health, community safety, and equitable access to City services. Participants emphasized that language access extends beyond translation documents, it also includes: ● Culturally responsive outreach ● Trusted community partnerships ● Ensures residents receive accurate information in ways that are accessible and meaningful Workgroup members also discussed the growing concerns among immigrant and mixed-status families about accessing services due to fears surrounding immigration enforcement. In this environment, clear multilingual communication and trusted access points are increasingly important to ensure residents understand available services and feel safe seeking assistance. The Commission appreciates that language access services were not proposed for funding reductions during this budget cycle and encourages the City to continue treating language access as essential infrastructure that supports equity, public health, civic participation, and …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resources Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: [20260728-008]: Recommendation on SAFE Alliance & Eloise House Date of Approval: Recommendation: The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission recommends that the Austin City Council, in partnership with Travis County, ensure that Austin's response to domestic and sexual violence is grounded in a survivor-centered, trauma-informed continuum of care by maintaining investment in SAFE Alliance's survivor services and strengthening partnerships with SAFE Alliance to ensure survivors have seamless access to community-based advocacy, forensic services, shelter, counseling, legal services, and culturally responsive support. The Commission further recommends that the City prioritizes care models that minimize retraumatization and reduce barriers to accessing services, recognizing that trauma-informed care extends beyond the forensic exam and includes immediate advocacy, continuity of care, and coordinated wraparound services. The Commission also recommends that the City continues evaluating Austin's forensic exam system through meaningful engagement with survivors, advocates, and community-based organizations to ensure operational and funding decisions are guided by trauma-informed best practices and centered on the needs of survivors. Description of Recommendation to Council: SAFE Alliance has long operated Eloise House, Austin’s only community-based, non-hospital forensic exam center. The model integrates forensic nursing, crisis advocacy, legal services, shelter, counseling, and culturally responsive support into a coordinated continuum of care centered on survivor needs. Unlike a traditional hospital setting, Eloise House was intentionally designed to reduce trauma by providing: ● Trauma-informed forensic care ● A community-based setting outside the emergency room ● Services at no cost to survivors ● Advocates who remain with survivors throughout the forensic exam process ● Immediate connection to wraparound services, including shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and safety planning SAFE Alliance currently provides approximately: ● 600 forensic exams annually ● Services to more than 700 survivors each day ● More than 27,000 SAFEline contacts each year ● Services in which approximately 50% of clients identify as Hispanic/Latinx ● Approximately 95% of regional forensic exams were through Eloise House (prior to ending the forensic exams) Although the transition of forensic exams has occurred, the Commission remains concerned that separating forensic exams from SAFE Alliance’s integrated advocacy model may increase barriers to care for survivors. The Commission believes Austin should continue strengthening partnerships with SAFE Alliance to ensure survivors have seamless access to advocacy, wraparound services, and culturally responsive support throughout the forensic exam process and beyond. It is equally critical that the City …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resources Advisory Commission Recommendation Number:[20260728-009]: Recommendation on Protecting Mental Health Services Date of Approval: Recommendation: The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission recommends that the Austin City Council prioritize funding for community-based mental health prevention, early intervention, and diversion services during the FY 2026-2027 budget process and avoid reductions to programs that prevent behavioral health crises, improve access to care, and promote long-term community well-being. The Commission further recommends that Council continue prioritizing investments that address mental health before individuals reach crisis, recognizing that prevention-focused services improve health outcomes, reduce reliance on emergency response systems, and strengthen economic stability for individuals and families. Description of Recommendation to Council: Mental health is a public health issue that affects every aspect of an individual’s quality of life, including housing stability, educational attainment, employment, family well-being, and community safety. During our Public Health Workgroup meeting with community members, participants consistently identified prevention, early intervention, and diversion as priorities that should remain protected during the City’s budget process. Participants emphasized the importance of expanding access to community-based mental health services before residents experience crises requiring emergency rooms, law enforcement involvement, or hospitalization. The workgroup discussed the value of innovative service delivery models, including rapid- access behavioral health services, telehealth, and diversion initiatives that connect residents to care quickly while reducing barriers related to transportation, cost, language, and stigma. Participants also emphasized the importance of culturally responsive and bilingual services that meet the needs of Austin’s increasingly diverse population. Rationale: Public investment in prevention is both fiscally responsible and essential to improving community health outcomes. Workgroup participants emphasized that the City’s behavioral health investments should prioritize prevention alongside crisis response, recognizing that early intervention reduces long-term costs while improving quality of life. Research discussed during the meeting noted that diversion programs can save approximately seven dollars for every dollar invested through reduced involvement with emergency response systems and the criminal legal system. Investing in prevention reduces demand on emergency rooms, law enforcement, jails, and other acute and high-cost systems while connecting residents to appropriate care earlier. The Commission recognizes that final funding recommendations are still under development for social services contracts. Regardless of which contracts are ultimately proposed for reduction, the Commission encourages the Austin City Council to prioritize investments that strengthen prevention, improve equitable access to behavioral health care, and support community well- being when making …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE HISPANIC LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION TUESDAY, JUNE 23, 2026, 6:00 PM AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W 2nd STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 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, contact Nekaybaw Watson at nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2562. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Lyssette Galvan, Chair Amanda Afifi Andrea Flores Yesenia Ramos AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Dulce Castañeda, Vice Chair Elizabeth Morales Jesús Perales Melissa Ruiz 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 4, 2026. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding Levers of Economic Mobility Index. Presentation by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr, Austin Equity and Inclusion and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity and Inclusion. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion regarding the Grant Process Working Group. 4. Discussion regarding goals and objectives of the commission for the upcoming year. 5. Discussion regarding a review of the bylaws. 6. Discussion regarding a new quality of life study for the Hispanic/ Latino community for FY 2027. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the Austin Resilience Network. 8. Approve the creation of a Public Health Working Group that researches health outcomes for Latino Austinites. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Nekaybaw Watson or Nekaybaw.watson@austinexas.gov, to request service or for additional information. Austin City Clerk’s Office, 512-974-2562 the at at For more information on the Hispanic Latino Quality …
Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission June 4, 2026 HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2026 The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission convened in a special called meeting on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Permitting and Development Center, room 1401. Chair Galvan called the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Lysette Galvan, Chair Yesenia Ramos Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Dulce Castañeda, Vice Chair Amanda Afifi Andrea Flores Elizabeth Morales Jesús Perales Melissa Ruiz PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Holly Sabiston – SAFE Sophia Mirto – SAFE Salvador Espinoza – Funding Eloise House Courtney Szigetrari – SAFE Raul Longoria – Funding SAFE APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on May 19, 2026. The minutes from the meeting on May 19, 2026, were approved during the June 4th meeting on Commissioner Ramos’ motion, Commissioner Ruiz’s second on an 8-0 vote. 1 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission June 4, 2026 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding funding for the Eloise House and SAFE Austin. The motion to approve a recommendation to Council regarding funding for the Eloise House and SAFE Austin was approved on Commissioner Ramos’ motion, Commissioner Morales’ second on an 8-0 vote. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT Chair Galvan adjourned the meeting at 6:33 p.m. without objection. 2
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Hispanic/ Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: [20260623-007]: Inclusion of Infrastructure Equity and Medical Resilience in the Pilot Knob Library & Resilience Hub Project WHEREAS, the Pilot Knob area is experiencing a rapid influx of high-density data centers equipped with advanced power hardening, while surrounding legacy residential neighborhoods remain on an aging grid; and WHEREAS, data center industrialization creates voltage fluctuations that pose a high risk of motor failure for standard residential HVAC systems and life-saving medical equipment, such as oxygen concentrators, ventilators, and power chairs; and WHEREAS, the medically vulnerable and disabled community in surrounding Austin neighborhoods, particularly those located within historically underserved District 2, face disproportionate life-safety risks during localized outages, making standard "cooling centers" insufficient for their needs; and WHEREAS, the City must ensure that infrastructure improvements made for industrial growth are extended to residential circuits to prevent vulnerable residents from being left on a "second- class" grid. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission encourage the Austin City Council to formally include specific language and funding in the November 2026 Bond to ensure the Pilot Knob Library and Resilience Hub serves as a high-capacity "Medical Triage Anchor". This includes scaling the facility for specialized medical plug-in capacity, coordinating with Austin Energy for residential grid hardening, and equipping the hub with industrial-grade redundant power systems to support medical devices.. Date of Approval: June 23, 2026 Motioned By: Commissioner Ramos Seconded By: Commissioner Morales Vote: 6-0 For: Chair Galvan, Vice Chair Castañeda, Commissioners Flores, Morales, Ramos and Ruiz . Absent: Commissioners Afifi and Perales Attest: Nekaybaw Watson, Staff Liaison
Economic Mobility: Accelerating Impact Austin Equity & Inclusion June 2026 Agenda • 2026 Fair Housing and Economic Mobility Conference: Recap • Economic Mobility Framework Resources • LEMI in Action: Live Demo • Operational Focus and Next Steps 2 Conference Reflections Keynote Panel Brought together policymakers, advocates, practitioners, community leaders, and business owners to connect efforts around a shared framework for systemic change. Attended by 283 participants 12 breakout sessions 50+ speakers Moderator: Miles Bloxon, Moderator, Producer & Host, KUT New Panelists: • Fran Rosebush Baylor, Senior Director, Asset Funders Network • Carmen Llanes, Executive Director, GAVA • Ingrid Taylor, CEO, United Way for Greater Austin • Henry Van de Putte, CEO, Meals on Wheels Central Texas • Sharon Vigil, CEO, Communities in Schools 3 Economic Mobility Framework: Workshop Recap • Introduced the Economic Mobility Framework and Index • Over 130 minutes, participants explored the tool, engaged in guided discussions, and worked across sectors to identify practical steps that advance economic mobility. 4 Economic Mobility Framework Assets Core Products Communications Technical Users Levers of Economic Mobility Index Report Framework At-a- Glance brochure Technical Document Levers of Economic Mobility Index (LEMI) FAQs LEMI ArcGIS layers StoryMap Tutorial Videos* Raw Data Economic Mobility | Austin Equity and Inclusion | AustinTexas.gov 5 LEMI Walkthrough Advancing Economic Mobility Operationalizing Visualizing Organizing Normalizing 7 Next Steps April 29, 2026 June 2026 August 2026 2026 Fair Housing & Economic Mobility Conference Launch of Levers of Economic Mobility Index (et. al) Boards & Commissions briefings EveryTexan Virtual Sessions Expanded Media Communications Creation of Resource (LEMI) Implementation Guide Resilient Cities Catalyst Austin Energy Affordable Energy Summit Presentation Community Member Virtual Sessions & Workshops Department Working Group Meetings Continuous Engagement Citywide Implementation May 2026 July 2026 September 2026 - 8 Learn More • Economic Mobility Website: • www.austintexas.gov/equity-inclusion/economic-mobility • Austin Equity & Inclusion Newsletter Sign up: • https://www.austintexas.gov/equity-inclusion • Stay tuned for virtual sessions & in-person workshop dates this summer! LEMI Report Index & Story Map Economic Mobility At-a-Glance 9
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Hispanic/ Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: [20260623-007]: Inclusion of Infrastructure Equity and Medical Resilience in the Pilot Knob Library & Resilience Hub Project WHEREAS, the Pilot Knob area is experiencing a rapid influx of high-density data centers equipped with advanced power hardening, while surrounding legacy residential neighborhoods remain on an aging grid; and WHEREAS, data center industrialization creates voltage fluctuations that pose a high risk of motor failure for standard residential HVAC systems and life-saving medical equipment, such as oxygen concentrators, ventilators, and power chairs; and WHEREAS, the medically vulnerable and disabled community in surrounding Austin neighborhoods, particularly those located within historically underserved District 2, face disproportionate life-safety risks during localized outages, making standard "cooling centers" insufficient for their needs; and WHEREAS, the City must ensure that infrastructure improvements made for industrial growth are extended to residential circuits to prevent vulnerable residents from being left on a "second- class" grid. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission encourage the Austin City Council to formally include specific language and funding in the November 2026 Bond to ensure the Pilot Knob Library and Resilience Hub serves as a high-capacity "Medical Triage Anchor". This includes scaling the facility for specialized medical plug-in capacity, coordinating with Austin Energy for residential grid hardening, and equipping the hub with industrial-grade redundant power systems to support medical devices.. Date of Approval: Motioned By: Vote: For: Seconded By: . Against: Abstain: Off the dais: Absent: Attest: _____________________________________________
Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission June 23, 2026 HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, JUNE 23, 2026 The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at Austin City Hall, room 1101. Chair Galvan called the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:06 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Lysette Galvan, Chair Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Dulce Castañeda, Vice Chair Andrea Flores Elizabeth Morales Yesenia Ramos Melissa Ruiz 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 4, 2026. The minutes from the meeting on June 4, 2026, were approved during the June 23, 2026 meeting on Vice Chair Castañeda’s motion, Commissioner Morales’ second on a 6-0 vote. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding Levers of Economic Mobility Index. Presentation by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr, Austin Equity and Inclusion and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity and Inclusion. The briefing was given by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr, Austin Equity and Inclusion and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity and Inclusion. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission June 23, 2026 3. Discussion regarding the Grant Process Working Group. Discussed. 4. Discussion regarding goals and objectives of the commission for the upcoming year. Discussed. 5. Discussion regarding a review of the bylaws. Discussed. 6. Discussion regarding a new quality of life study for the Hispanic / Latino community for FY 2027. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the Austin Resilience Network. The motion to approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the Austin Resilience Network was approved on Commissioner Ramos’ motion, Commissioner Ruiz’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Afifi and Perales were absent. 8. Approve the creation of a Public Health Working Group that researches health outcomes for Latino Austinites. The motion to a approve the creation of a Public Health Working group that researches health outcomes for Latino Austinites with Chair Galvan, and Commissioners Ramos and Ruiz as members was approved on Vice Chair Castañeda’s motion, Commissioner Ramos’ second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Afifi and Perales were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT Chair Galvan adjourned the meeting at 6:48 p.m. without objection. The minutes of the June …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE HISPANIC LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2026, 6:00 PM PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1406 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS 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, contact Nekaybaw Watson at nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2562. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Lyssette Galvan, Chair Amanda Afifi Andrea Flores Yesenia Ramos AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Dulce Castañeda, Vice Chair Elizabeth Morales Jesús Perales Melissa Ruiz 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 May 19, 2026. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding funding for the Eloise House and SAFE Austin. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Nekaybaw Watson or Nekaybaw.watson@austinexas.gov, to request service or for additional information. Austin City Clerk’s Office, 512-974-2562 the at at For more information on the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission, please contact Nekaybaw Watson at nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2562.
Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission May 19, 2026 HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, May 19, 2026 The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St in Austin, Texas. Chair Galvan called the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:14 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Lysette Galvan, Chair Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Dulce Castañeda, Vice Chair Andrea Flores Elizabeth Morales Yesenia Ramos Melissa Ruiz PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Raul Longoria – Funding SAFE Salvador Espinoza – Funding Eloise House APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on April 28, 2026. The minutes from the meeting on April 28, 2026, were approved on Vice Chair Castañeda’s motion, Commissioner Ramos’ second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Afifi and Perales were absent. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding an overview and update on the workforce training resources, youth initiatives, and Day Labor Program of the Workforce Development Program. Presentation by Ann Eaton, Assistant Director, Austin Economic Development and Khotan Harmon, Workforce Development & Childcare Acting Division Manager, Austin Economic Development. The presentation was given by Ann Eaton, Assistant Director, Austin Economic Development. 1 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission May 19, 2026 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding Montopolis Fairway Cases. The motion to approve a recommendation to Council regarding Montopolis Fairway Cases was approved on Commissioner Ramos’ motion, Commissioner Morales’ second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Afifi and Perales were absent. 4. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the Senior Meal Programs. The motion to approve a recommendation to Council regarding Senior Meal Programs was approved on Commissioner Ramos’ motion, Commissioner Ruiz’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Afifi and Perales were absent. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Update from the Immigration Working Group regarding meeting with Councilmember Velásquez. Update was provided by Commissioner Ruiz. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Recommendation regarding data centers and library Create a working group for Safe Alliance Recommendation regarding emergency funding for Eloise House and SAFE ATX Discussion regarding council’s decision for a joint working group ADJOURNMENT Chair Galvan adjourned the meeting at 7:28p.m. without objection. 2
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20260604-002: Emergency Budget Recommendation for SAFE Alliance - Eloise House Date of Approval: June 4, 2026 Recommendation: The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission recommends that the Austin City Council and the Mayor’s Office, in partnership with Travis County allocate a minimum of $430,000 in funding to preserve Eloise House as a community-based, non-hospital forensic exam and advocacy center operated by SAFE Alliance from June 9 through September 30, 2026, and $200,000 to keep the SAFE domestic violence shelter open from October 2026 through October 2027. The Commission further recommends that the City commit to a sustainable, multi-year funding strategy that ensures continuity of SAFE’s full wraparound model without displacement into hospital settings. Services include: ● Forensic exams ● Trauma-informed advocacy ● Shelter ● Legal services ● Culturally responsive care Finally, the Commission calls on the Austin City Council to immediately pause the Mayor’s proposed transition of forensic nursing services to hospital systems and BRAVE Alliance, and to require a meaningful community input process that centers survivors, advocates, and the communities most impacted before any transition moves forward. A press release is not a plan. Survivors and the organizations that serve them deserve a seat at the table before services that took decades to build are dismantled in weeks. Description of Recommendation to Council: Eloise House, operated by SAFE Alliance, is the only non-hospital forensic exam facility in Austin. It provides sexual assault forensic exams and rape kits at no cost to survivors, in a setting purporse built for: ● Trauma-informed care ● Outside the emergency room ● Free from billing ● Staffed by advocates who remain with survivors throughout the process The Mayor’s May 5, 2026 announcement proposed transitioning forensic nursing services to hospital systems and BRAVE Alliance, a Cedar Park-based organization with no demonstrated capacity at Austin’s scale. This Commission asks Council to reject that transition and instead fund Eloise House directly, preserving the co-located model of exam, advocacy, and wraparound care that has made it the destination of choice for survivors; accounting for 95% of all forensic exams in the region. Funding of at least $630,000 would allow SAFE to sustain approximately 600 forensic exams annually, maintain 24/7 SAFEline access, and continue serving the more than 700 survivors per day who rely on SAFE’s shelter, counseling, legal support, and preservation programming. SAFE Alliance - …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20260604-001: Emergency Budget Recommendation for SAFE Alliance - Eloise House Date of Approval: Recommendation: The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission recommends that the Austin City Council and the Mayor’s Office, in partnership with Travis County allocate a minimum of $430,000 in funding to preserve Eloise House as a community-based, non-hospital forensic exam and advocacy center operated by SAFE Alliance from June 9 through September 30, 2026, and $200,000 to keep the SAFE domestic violence shelter open from October 2026 through October 2027. The Commission further recommends that the City commit to a sustainable, multi-year funding strategy that ensures continuity of SAFE’s full wraparound model without displacement into hospital settings. Services include: ● Forensic exams ● Trauma-informed advocacy ● Shelter ● Legal services ● Culturally responsive care Finally, the Commission calls on the Austin City Council to immediately pause the Mayor’s proposed transition of forensic nursing services to hospital systems and BRAVE Alliance, and to require a meaningful community input process that centers survivors, advocates, and the communities most impacted before any transition moves forward. A press release is not a plan. Survivors and the organizations that serve them deserve a seat at the table before services that took decades to build are dismantled in weeks. Description of Recommendation to Council: Eloise House, operated by SAFE Alliance, is the only non-hospital forensic exam facility in Austin. It provides sexual assault forensic exams and rape kits at no cost to survivors, in a setting purporse built for: ● Trauma-informed care ● Outside the emergency room ● Free from billing ● Staffed by advocates who remain with survivors throughout the process The Mayor’s May 5, 2026 announcement proposed transitioning forensic nursing services to hospital systems and BRAVE Alliance, a Cedar Park-based organization with no demonstrated capacity at Austin’s scale. This Commission asks Council to reject that transition and instead fund Eloise House directly, preserving the co-located model of exam, advocacy, and wraparound care that has made it the destination of choice for survivors; accounting for 95% of all forensic exams in the region. Funding of at least $630,000 would allow SAFE to sustain approximately 600 forensic exams annually, maintain 24/7 SAFEline access, and continue serving the more than 700 survivors per day who rely on SAFE’s shelter, counseling, legal support, and preservation programming. SAFE Alliance - Eloise House Statistics …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE HISPANIC LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION TUESDAY, MAY 19, 2026, 6:00 PM AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM #1101 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 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, contact Nekaybaw Watson at nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2562. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Amanda Afifi, Chair Dulce Castañeda Andrea Flores Lyssette Galvan AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Yesenia Ramos, Vice Chair Elizabeth Morales Johanna Moya Fábregas Jesús Perales Melissa Ruiz 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 April 28, 2026. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding an overview and update on the workforce training resources, youth initiatives, and Day Labor Program of the Workforce Development Program. Presentation by Ann Eaton, Assistant Director, Austin Economic Development and Khotan Harmon, Workforce Development & Childcare Acting Division Manager, Austin Economic Development. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding Montopolis Fairway Cases 4. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the Senior Meal Program WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Update from the Immigration Working Group regarding meeting with Councilmember Velásquez. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Nekaybaw Watson or Nekaybaw.watson@austinexas.gov, to request service or for additional information. Austin City Clerk’s Office, 512-974-2562 the at at For more information on the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission, please contact Nekaybaw Watson at nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2562.
Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission April 28, 2026 HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, April 28, 2026 The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, 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 6:07 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Amanda Afifi, Chair Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Yesenia Ramos, Vice Chair Dulce Castañeda Elizabeth Morales Jesús Perales Melissa Ruiz PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Susana Almanza – Land Acquisition Valerie Menard – Senior Luncheon Program Marian Sanchez – Senior Luncheon Program APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on March 24, 2026. The minutes from the meeting on March 24, 2026, were approved on Vice Chair Ramos’ motion, Commissioner Morales’ second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Flores, Galvan, Moya Fábregas and Peña were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion regarding the recently approved budget recommendations and next steps for them. Discussed. 1 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission April 28, 2026 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Conduct officer elections for Vice Chair. The motion to elect Commissioner Castañeda as Vice Chair of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission was approved on Commissioner Castañeda’s motion, Vice Chair Ramos’ second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Flores, Galvan, Moya Fábregas and Peña were absent. 4. Conduct officer elections for Chair. The motion to elect Commissioner Galvan as Chair of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission was approved on Commissioner Castañeda’s motion, Commissioner Perales’ second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Flores, Galvan, Moya Fábregas and Peña were absent. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Update from the Arts and Culture Working Group regarding follow-up on a meeting with the Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment about the approved budget recommendations. Update provided by members of the working group. 6. Update from the Immigration Working Group regarding meeting with Councilmember Velásquez. Item 6 was postponed until the next regular meeting of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission without objection. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Austin Arts Culture Music and Entertainment Department (ACME) Presentation Austin Communications and Engagement Department (ACE) Presentation Workforce Development Immigration Working Group Update Recommendation to Council regarding Montopolis Fairway Cases Recommendation to Council regarding Senior Meal …
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Hispanic/ Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20260519-003 Recommendation to Council regarding Montopolis Fairway WHEREAS, The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission advises the Austin City Council on issues relating to the quality of life for the City's Hispanic/Latino community; and WHEREAS, the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission addresses issues related to the health, safety, and welfare of the Hispanic/Latino community, with specific attention to areas like affordable housing and economic stability; and WHEREAS, one of those community organizations, People Organized in Defense of Earth and her Resources (PODER), has brought forward a recommendation to city council to purchase the property at Montopolis and Fairway to secure the property for future low-income single-family housing; and WHEREAS, In 2001 the Austin City Council adopted the Montopolis Neighborhood Plan, which called for sustaining its single-family zoning in the heart of Montopolis; and WHEREAS, the 2018 report, “Uprooted: Residential Displacement in Austin’s Gentrifying Neighborhood and What Can be Done About It,” commissioned by the Austin City Council and completed by University of Texas experts recommended that the city make strategic, anti-displacement investments in Montopolis to protect it from further gentrification; and WHEREAS, for years, the Montopolis Neighborhood Plan Contact Team, along with other supporters, have been fighting to sustain its single-family zoning; and WHEREAS, Montopolis already has the highest concentration of multifamily, commercial, and industrial zoning of any planning area in the city; and WHEREAS, The 1.9 acres, known as the Montopolis-Fairway Zoning case, is currently zoned for single- family housing and includes properties at 6202, 6204 Caddie Street; 6205, 6211, 6215 Fairway Street; 1600, 1604, 1606, 1608, 1612, and 1614 Montopolis; and WHEREAS, While the zoning request from the developer to change the zoning from single-family to vertical mixed use was denied, the property remains vulnerable to future gentrifying developments; and . NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission recommends that the city of Austin purchase the property included in the Montopolis- Fairway zoning case to be used to build low-income single-family housing and protect the neighborhood from future gentrification. Date of Approval: May 19, 2026 Motioned By: Commissioner Ramos Seconded By: Commissioner Morales Vote: 6-0 For: Chair Lyssette Galvan, Vice Chair Dulce Castañeda, Commissioners Andrea Flores, Elizabeth Morales, Yesenia Ramos, and Melissa Ruiz Against: None Absent: Commissioners Amanda Afifi and Jesús Perales Attest: Nekaybaw …
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20260519-004 Recommendation to Council regarding Senior Meal Program WHEREAS, PODER has been the leading organization for over 35 years on environmental and social justice issues, and has initiated a new project, Seniors Advocating for Generational Equity (SAGE), at the request of the founding members and neighborhood residents in East Austin. For its first identifiable need, SAGE will request a congregate meal program and activities for older adults in Montopolis that will improve well-being and quality of life; and WHEREAS, for many years, the Montopolis Recreation Center hosted a small congregate meal program with limited activities for older adults. However, the program was removed in 2018 when the center closed for the construction of a new facility that has since been completed and opened several years ago. WHEREAS, in addition, PODER-SAGE has established communication with key administrative staff from the Montopolis Recreation Center, Meals on Wheels, and Family Eldercare, and all have expressed positive support for the establishment of a nutrition congregate meal program at the Montopolis Recreation Center. Family Eldercare expressed a strong interest, given that they are presently building a housing complex with 160 units for older adults in the immediate area. WHEREAS, overall, the survey findings of Montopolis residents, along with the interviews of social service providers serving older adults, expressed the importance of re-establishing a neighborhood luncheon program in Montopolis in the immediate future. The survey responses indicate a high interest in participating in a luncheon program, and very positive comments were received NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Commission supports the establishing a senior luncheon program at the Montopolis Community Recreation Center. The Montopolis Community Recreation Center is located at 1200 Montopolis Drive. Date of Approval: May 19, 2026 Motioned By: Commissioner Ramos Seconded By: Commissioner Ruiz Vote: 6-0 . For: Chair Lyssette Galvan, Vice Chair Dulce Castañeda, Commissioners Andrea Flores, Elizabeth Morales, Yesenia Ramos, and Melissa Ruiz Against: None Absent: Commissioners Amanda Afifi and Jesús Perales Attest: Nekaybaw Watson, Staff Liaison
Workforce Development & Childcare Update Ann Eaton, Assistant Director Austin Economic Development | May 19, 2026 Austin’s Employment and Economic Growth Austin MSA: 2.5 million people Projection: 4.6 million people by 2060 Regional Labor Force: 1.2 million Key growth drivers: Migration, job creation, education, and innovation Growth concentrating along jobs, mobility, and infrastructure corridors City of Austin Employment Projections, 2020-2060 1,010,007 1,128,223 1,203,284 1,245,703 655,190 722,772 576,193 s b o J f o # 1,400,000 1,200,000 1,000,000 800,000 600,000 400,000 200,000 - 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 2050 2055 Actual LODES Employment Projected Employment 2060 Year 2 What’s Different About 2026 A strong economy facing new constraints: Tight labor market Rising affordability pressures Small business sustainability challenges Infrastructure and timing gaps Growth is no longer the challenge; managing its impacts is. 3 Austin’s Enduring Advantage Talent, innovation, and a diversified economy 52% of workers hold a post-secondary degree Median age: 35 20% foreign-born workforce $4.5B in venture capital investment (2024) Strength across advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, life sciences, clean tech, and creative industries. 4 The Risk Ahead When growth outpaces affordability, retention suffers Workforce participation tied to housing and childcare access Employers competing for talent in a tight labor market Economic momentum depends on keeping workers and small businesses rooted in Austin 5 Our 2026 Focus Economic Development Roadmap Workforce Development Investment o Infrastructure Academy o Workforce Development Solicitation High-Quality Childcare Access Small Business Resilience o New Access to Capital Programs Attracting New Business o Welcome new businesses to Austin that will benefit our local workforce. 6 Workforce Development & Child Care The Workforce Development & Child Care Division strengthens Austin’s workforce by providing readiness and training, employment pathways, and childcare support. Workgroups include: • Youth Initiatives Programs: Equips young residents with job skills, career pathways, and mentorship. • Day Labor: Connects workers with short-term employment and job readiness support. • Workforce & Childcare Contracts: Expands access to jobs and childcare services through City partnerships. • Community Technology: Enhances digital literacy and tech access for workforce readiness. Key programs include: • Home Grown Network for Home-Based Providers • City-Supported Childcare Facilities • Austin Youth Council, High School Internships • Grant for Tech Opportunities Program (GTOPs) • High-Quality Childcare Fee Waiver Program (In Development) 7 Reaching …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE HISPANIC LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2026, 6:00 PM CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM #1101 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 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 remotely, contact Christi Vitela at christi.vitela@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2792. telephone. To to speak register CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Amanda Afifi, Chair Dulce Castañeda Andrea Flores Johanna Moya Fábregas Lyssette Galvan AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Yesenia Ramos, Vice Chair Brian Peña Jesús Perales Elizabeth Morales Melissa Ruiz 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 March 24, 2026. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion regarding the recently approved budget recommendations and next steps for them. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Conduct officer elections for Vice Chair 4. Conduct officer elections for Chair WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Update from the Arts and Culture Working Group regarding follow-up on a meeting with the the approved budget Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment about recommendations. 6. Update from the Immigration Working Group regarding meeting with Councilmember Velásquez. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Christi Vitela at the Austin City Clerk’s Office, at 512-974-2792 or christi.vitela@austintexas.gov, to request service or for additional information. 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 March 24, 2026 HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, March 24, 2026 The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Ramos called the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Yesenia Ramos, Vice Chair Melissa Ruiz Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Amanda Afifi, Chair Dulce Castañeda Andrea Flores Lyssette Galvan Elizabeth Morales Jesús Perales PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Raquel Rivera Hector Ordaz Luis Ordaz APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on February 24, 2026. The minutes from the meeting on February 24, 2026 were approved on Commissioner Perales’ motion, Commissioner Castañeda’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Moya Fábregas and Peña were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Update on the Austin Equity and Inclusion Office’s Levers of Economic Mobility Index. Presentation by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr., Austin Equity and Inclusion, and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity and Inclusion. 1 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission March 24, 2026 The presentation was made by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr., Austin Equity and Inclusion, and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity and Inclusion. 3. Presentation by Communities in Schools of Central Texas regarding an economic mobility study and the impact of the organization on area students’ quality of life. The presentation was made by Analleli Lopez Tavera and Katy Ayala, parent participants in the Communities in Schools of Central Texas services. 4. Discussion regarding Austin Budget & Organizational Excellence questions for Boards and Commissions presented at the February JIC Meeting. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for Expanding Digital Literacy and Technology Career Pathways. The motion to approve the recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for Expanding Digital Literacy and Technology Career Pathways was approved on Commissioner Morales’ motion, Commissioner Flores’ second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Moya Fábregas and Peña were absent. 6. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for Supporting Maternal Services. The motion to approve the recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for Supporting Maternal Services was approved on …
Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission March 24, 2026 HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, March 24, 2026 The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Ramos called the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Yesenia Ramos, Vice Chair Melissa Ruiz Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Amanda Afifi, Chair Dulce Castañeda Andrea Flores Lyssette Galvan Elizabeth Morales Jesús Perales PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Raquel Rivera Hector Ordaz Luis Ordaz APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on February 24, 2026. The minutes from the meeting on February 24, 2026 were approved on Commissioner Perales’ motion, Commissioner Castañeda’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Moya Fábregas and Peña were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Update on the Austin Equity and Inclusion Office’s Levers of Economic Mobility Index. Presentation by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr., Austin Equity and Inclusion, and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity and Inclusion. 1 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission March 24, 2026 The presentation was made by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr., Austin Equity and Inclusion, and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity and Inclusion. 3. Presentation by Communities in Schools of Central Texas regarding an economic mobility study and the impact of the organization on area students’ quality of life. The presentation was made by Analleli Lopez Tavera and Katy Ayala, parent participants in the Communities in Schools of Central Texas services. 4. Discussion regarding Austin Budget & Organizational Excellence questions for Boards and Commissions presented at the February JIC Meeting. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for Expanding Digital Literacy and Technology Career Pathways. The motion to approve the recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for Expanding Digital Literacy and Technology Career Pathways was approved on Commissioner Morales’ motion, Commissioner Flores’ second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Moya Fábregas and Peña were absent. 6. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for Supporting Maternal Services. The motion to approve the recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for Supporting Maternal Services was approved on …
Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission April 28, 2026 HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, April 28, 2026 The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, 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 6:07 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Amanda Afifi, Chair Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Yesenia Ramos, Vice Chair Dulce Castañeda Elizabeth Morales Jesús Perales Melissa Ruiz PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Susana Almanza – Land Acquisition Valerie Menard – Senior Luncheon Program Marian Sanchez – Senior Luncheon Program APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on March 24, 2026. The minutes from the meeting on March 24, 2026, were approved on Vice Chair Ramos’ motion, Commissioner Morales’ second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Flores, Galvan, Moya Fábregas and Peña were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion regarding the recently approved budget recommendations and next steps for them. Discussed. 1 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission April 28, 2026 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Conduct officer elections for Vice Chair. The motion to elect Commissioner Castañeda as Vice Chair of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission was approved on Commissioner Castañeda’s motion, Vice Chair Ramos’ second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Flores, Galvan, Moya Fábregas and Peña were absent. 4. Conduct officer elections for Chair. The motion to elect Commissioner Galvan as Chair of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission was approved on Commissioner Castañeda’s motion, Commissioner Perales’ second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Flores, Galvan, Moya Fábregas and Peña were absent. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Update from the Arts and Culture Working Group regarding follow-up on a meeting with the Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment about the approved budget recommendations. Update provided by members of the working group. 6. Update from the Immigration Working Group regarding meeting with Councilmember Velásquez. Item 6 was postponed until the next regular meeting of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission without objection. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Austin Arts Culture Music and Entertainment Department (ACME) Presentation Austin Communications and Engagement Department (ACE) Presentation Workforce Development Immigration Working Group Update Recommendation to Council regarding Montopolis Fairway Cases Recommendation to Council regarding Senior Meal …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE HISPANIC LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION TUESDAY, MARCH 24, 2026, 6:00 PM CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM #1101 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 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 remotely, contact Christi Vitela at christi.vitela@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2792. telephone. To to speak register CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Amanda Afifi, Chair Dulce Castañeda Andrea Flores Johanna Moya Fábregas Lyssette Galvan AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Yesenia Ramos, Vice Chair Brian Peña Jesús Perales Elizabeth Morales Melissa Ruiz 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 February 24, 2026. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Update on the Austin Equity and Inclusion Office’s Levers of Economic Mobility Index. Presentation by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr., Austin Equity and Inclusion, and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity and Inclusion. 3. Presentation by Communities in Schools of Central Texas regarding an economic mobility study and the impact of the organization on area students’ quality of life. 4. Discussion regarding Austin Budget & Organizational Excellence questions for Boards and Commissions presented at the February JIC Meeting. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for Expanding Digital Literacy and Technology Career Pathways. 6. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for Supporting Maternal Services. 7. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for Supporting Mental Health Services in Schools. 8. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for Legal Services. 9. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for the Family Stabilization Program. 10. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for AISD Parent Support Specialists. 11. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for Early …
