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 …
