FY 24-25 Language Access — original pdf

Backup

HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240326-13 Language Access Motioned By: Recommendation Date: March 26, 2024 Subject: FY24 Budget Recommendations Description of Recommendation to Council ● Allocate funding to hire on-site full-time interpreters All City of Austin residents should be able to participate in City Council meetings regardless of language. The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission recommends hiring full-time city clerk interpreters to ensure equitable access to participation in meetings. Seconded By: D R A F T Currently, people wishing to participate in City Council meetings and who need an interpreter, must request an interpreter 48 hours in advance. Unfortunately, this policy isolates community members who are not English speakers. Some residents are unaware of this policy, and they show up to the meeting expecting to participate. However, they are unpleasantly surprised to find out that an interpreter is not available, and they will not be heard. This extra step of requesting an interpreter also causes some people to decide not to participate in meetings. People may decide not to put in a request to participate because they are still unsure if they will be able to attend. This policy pushes them to decide to forgo participation because they are unsure if they will make it to the meeting that day. English speakers are able to decide at the last minute to participate in a meeting. This process should not isolate members of our community. Having on-site full-time interpreters will ensure all residents have accessibility to City Council meetings. Rationale: Vote For: Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: Amanda Afifi, Chair D R A F T