Item #7 Draft Recommendation to City Council in Support of the Austin Travis County Food Plan — original pdf

Backup

HISPANIC LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240924-XXX [XXX is the agenda item number] Recommendation to the Austin City Council in Support of the Austin Travis County Food Plan The Hispanic Quality of Life Commission respectfully submits the following recommendation to the Austin City Council, based on the alarming facts that 14.4% of Travis County residents experience food insecurity and 16.8 acres of farmland are lost every day in the county: WHEREAS, a healthy, equitable, and ecologically resilient local food system is crucial for Austin’s sustainability and prosperity; and WHEREAS, a just and inclusive local food system supports job creation, strengthens the economy, enhances public health, and reduces environmental impact by promoting the local growing, selling, consuming, and recovering of food; and WHEREAS, many residents of Austin and Travis County face significant barriers in accessing healthy, affordable, and culturally relevant food, with underserved communities disproportionately affected; and WHEREAS, the Austin Travis County Food Plan provides a comprehensive and strategic framework to combat food insecurity, support local agriculture, and develop a resilient food economy that benefits all residents; and WHEREAS, investing in local agriculture and food systems can help prevent further loss of farmland, ensuring a sustainable supply of locally grown food for future generations; NOW, THEREFORE, the Hispanic Quality of Life Commission recommends that the Austin City Council: 1. Adopt the Austin Travis County Food Plan, with a focus on addressing the needs of all residents, particularly those who face challenges in food access and affordability. 2. Allocate resources and dedicated staff to ensure the continued development and implementation of this plan, with equity, sustainability, and community engagement at the forefront. 3. Foster partnerships with local organizations, businesses, farmers, and community groups to collaborate on building a just, healthy, and resilient local food system. By supporting this plan, Austin can make significant strides toward creating a more equitable, thriving, and resilient food system that serves all of its residents while preserving vital agricultural land. https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=435436 Vote For: Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: ___________________________