Regular Meeting of the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) Wednesday, May 28th, 2025, at 3:00 P.M. CST Boards and Commission Room #1101, 301 W. Second Street, Austin, TX 78701 and some members may be attending via videoconference Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Alejandra Mireles (Equity and Inclusion Program Coordinator, Equity Division) at (512) 974-8045 or alejandra.mireles@austintexas.gov. CURRENT JIC MEMBER COMMISSIONS & REPRESENTATIVES: Member Commission: African American Resource Advisory Commission Asian American Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission Primary Representative: Justin Parsons Alternate Representative: Alexandra Anderson Sonny Sin Nayer Sikder Commission for Women Diana Melendez Becky Bullard Commission on Aging Commission on Immigrant Affairs Commission on Veterans Affairs Philip Reichert or Richard Bondi (Vice-Chair) Teresa Ferguson Miriam Dorantes Melissa Ortega Early Childhood Council Hispanic/Latino Quality-of-Life Resource Advisory Commission Human Rights Commission LGBTQ+ Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Bryce F Laake-stanfield Alice Navarro Amanda Afifi (Chair) Morgan Davis or Jeffrey Clemmons Jerry Joe Benson Curtis Wyman Andrea McIllwain Daniela Silva Muneeb "Meebs" Aslam Katie Coyne Lisa Chang Conor H. Kelly 1 PURPOSE OF THE JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE: City Code § 2-1-204 mandates The Committee shall: 1) advise the council on issues pertaining to equity, diversity, and inclusion; and 2) promote close cooperation between the council, City management, City boards, commissions, committees, and taskforces, and individuals, institutions, and agencies to increase and sustain equity, diversity, and inclusion in the city. AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION 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. 2. Approve the minutes of the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE’s REGULAR MEETING April 23rd, 2025. Approve the minutes of the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE’s SPECIAL CALLED MEETING on May 7th, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Presentation from Family Eldercare on LGBTQ Housing Groundbreaking at Cairn Point Montopolis (1013 Montopolis Drive; Austin, TX 78741) on June 18th at 9:30 a.m.-10.30 a.m., from Dr. Aaron Alarcon. Followed by discussion and questions. Discussion regarding updates to …
Regular Meeting of the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) Wednesday, May 28th, 2025, at 3:00 P.M. CST Boards and Commission Room #1101, 301 W. Second Street, Austin, TX 78701 and some members may be attending via videoconference Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Alejandra Mireles (Equity and Inclusion Program Coordinator, Equity Division) at (512) 974-8045 or alejandra.mireles@austintexas.gov. CURRENT JIC MEMBER COMMISSIONS & REPRESENTATIVES: Member Commission: African American Resource Advisory Commission Asian American Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission Primary Representative: Justin Parsons Alternate Representative: Alexandra Anderson Vacant Nayer Sikder Commission for Women Diana Melendez Becky Bullard Richard Bondi (Vice-Chair) Teresa Ferguson Miriam Dorantes Melissa Ortega Commission on Aging Commission on Immigrant Affairs Commission on Veterans Affairs Vacant Early Childhood Council Hispanic/Latino Quality-of-Life Resource Advisory Commission Human Rights Commission LGBTQ+ Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Alice Navarro Amanda Afifi (Chair) Vacant Jerry Joe Benson Lisa Chang Vacant Andrea McIllwain Daniela Silva Muneeb "Meebs" Aslam Katie Coyne Conor H. Kelly 1 PURPOSE OF THE JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE: City Code § 2-1-204 mandates The Committee shall: 1) advise the council on issues pertaining to equity, diversity, and inclusion; and 2) promote close cooperation between the council, City management, City boards, commissions, committees, and taskforces, and individuals, institutions, and agencies to increase and sustain equity, diversity, and inclusion in the city. AGENDA REVISED CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION 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. 2. Approve the minutes of the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE’s REGULAR MEETING April 23rd, 2025. Approve the minutes of the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE’s SPECIAL CALLED MEETING on May 7th, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Presentation from Family Eldercare on LGBTQ Housing Groundbreaking at Cairn Point Montopolis (1013 Montopolis Drive; Austin, TX 78741) on June 18th at 9:30 a.m.-10.30 a.m., from Dr. Aaron Alarcon. Followed by discussion and questions. Discussion regarding updates to the Joint Inclusion Committee’s Recommendation 20250326-019 Native American & Indigenous …
JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) convened a regular meeting on WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23RD, 2025, at 3:00 P.M. CST in the BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM #1101 (301 W. Second Street, Austin, Texas 78701) Chair AMANDA AFIFI called the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE meeting to order at 3:02 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: African American Resource Advisory Commission, Justin Parsons Commission on Aging: Richard Bondi (Vice-Chair) Early Childhood Council, Andrea McIllwain Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission: Amanda Afifi (Chair) Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Asian American Quality of Life Commission: Sonny Sin Commission on Immigrant Affairs: Melissa Ortega Commission for Women: Diana Melendez Human Rights Commission: Morgan Davis LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Commission: Jerry Joe Benson Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities: Jennifer Powell Commissioners Absent: Commission on Veterans Affairs: Philip Reichert or Curtis Wyman PURPOSE OF THE JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE: City Code § 2-1-204 mandates The Committee shall: 1) advise the council on issues pertaining to equity, diversity, and inclusion; and 2) promote close cooperation between the council, City management, City boards, commissions, committees, and taskforces, and individuals, institutions, and agencies to increase and sustain equity, diversity, and inclusion in the city. APPROVAL OF MINUTES AGENDA 1 1. 2. Approve the minutes of the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE’s REGULAR MEETING on FEBRUARY 26TH, 2025. The minutes for the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE’s FEBRARY 26, 2025 MEETING were approved at the APRIL 23RD MEETING on COMMISSIONER LISA CHANG’s motion, COMMISSIONER JERRY JOE BENSON’s second, on a 10-0 vote (Absent: Commission on Veterans Affairs’ Philip Reichert and Curtis Wyman.) Approve the minutes of the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE’s REGULAR MEETING on MARCH 26TH, 2025. The minutes for the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE’s MARCH 26, 2025 MEETING were approved at the APRIL 23RD MEETING on COMMISSIONER SONNY SIN’s motion, COMMISSIONER JUSTIN PARSON’s second, on a 10-0 vote (Absent: Commission on Veterans Affairs’ Phillip Reichert and Curtis Wyman.) STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Briefing on the Austin Lesbian & Gay Peace Officers Association and the 4th World LGBTQI+ Conference for Criminal Justice Professionals August 5-8, 2025 by Sgt. Michael Wilmore-Crumrine (he/him). Sgt. Wilmore-Crumrine discusses the August conference. Presentation begins with Sgt. Wilmore-Crumrine describing that the City acknowledges that the LGBTQI+ community is experiencing a huge amount of anxiety and stress considering the political climate and because of incidents with the Austin Police Department. Sgt. Wilmore-Crumrine shares history of the organization and how the Austin …
JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) convened a special called meeting on Wednesday, May 7th, 2024, at 3:00 P.M. CST City of Austin Permitting and Development Center, Rooms #1406 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Austin, TX 78752 Vie-Chair RICHARD BONDI called the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE meeting to order at 3:08 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: African American Resource Advisory Commission, Justin Parsons Commission on Aging: Richard Bondi (Vice-Chair) Commission on Immigrant Affairs: Melissa Ortega Commission for Women: Becky Bullard Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission: Amanda Afifi (Chair) Early Childhood Council: Andrea McIllwain Asian American Quality of Life Commission: Sonny Sin Human Rights Commission: Morgan Davis LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Commission: Jerry Joe Benson Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities: Lisa Chang Member Commissioners with vacancies: Commission on Veterans Affairs PURPOSE OF THE JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE: City Code § 2-1-204 mandates The Committee shall: 1) advise the council on issues pertaining to equity, diversity, and inclusion; and 2) promote close cooperation between the council, City management, City boards, commissions, committees, and taskforces, and individuals, institutions, and agencies to increase and sustain equity, diversity, and inclusion in the city. AGENDA 1 CALL TO ORDER: 3:08 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION 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. DISCUSSION & ACTION ITEMS 1. Discussion on bills filed during the 89th Texas Legislative Session, as they relate to the bylaws and priorities of the Joint Inclusion Committee, and its member commissions; with possible, but not limited to, action items such as returning to member commissions to consider writing Recommendations, returning to member commissions’ workgroups for action, scheduling meetings with Council Members to share updates, scheduling meetings with Texas Senators or Representatives for collaboration, and/or developing topics for Joint Inclusion Committee Recommendations. Discussion on possible action items. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 2. 3. 4. Budget & Policy Priorities Workgroup – updates on the next steps of the Joint Inclusion Committee’s Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget Recommendations, through the publishing of the City’s FY25-26 City Budget (Workgroup Members: Commissioners Justin Parsons, Richard Bondi, Amanda Afifi, Jerry Joe Benson, and Lisa Chang). Updates regarding connecting with council members. Texas Legislative Workgroup – updates on identifying bills from the 89th Legislative Session, which would impact the …
Get to Know Your Commission Days Date Week of July 7th Venue Zoom Week of July 14th Gustavo “Gus” L. Garcia Recreation Center Week of August 11th George Morales Dove Springs Recreation Center Week of August 18th Little Walnut Creek Branch - Austin Public Library Week of September 15th Zoom Week of September 15th Zoom Times: ● 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.? ● During the day?
JIC Community Input for FY27 Budget Recommendations Topic Date Budget Kick Off - Department Updates from FY26 Budget September 27th @ 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Location PDC In Person Session 1 October 15th @5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Gustavo “Gus” L. Garcia Recreation Center In Person Session 2 October 29th In Person Session 3 November 12th George Morales Dove Springs Recreation Center Little Walnut Creek Branch - Austin Public Library Virtual Session 4 December 10th Virtual Session 5 FY27 Budget Updates with Departments January 14th January 17th Zoom Zoom PDC
COMMISSION RESOLTUION JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE Recommendation Number: 20240528-011: 4th World LGBTQI+ Conference for Criminal Justice Professionals WHEREAS, the City of Austin is committed to advancing equity, inclusion, and justice for all residents, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, and other marginalized identities (LGBTQI+); and WHEREAS, the Joint Inclusion Committee advises the Austin City Council on matters of equity, representation, and inclusion1; and WHEREAS, the Joint Inclusion Committee promotes close cooperation between the council, City management, City boards, commissions, committees, and taskforces, and individuals, institutions, and agencies to increase and sustain equity, diversity, and inclusion in the city2; and WHEREAS, the 4th World LGBTQI+ Conference for Criminal Justice Professionals brings together international experts, advocates, and professionals across law enforcement, corrections, judiciary, and other criminal justice sectors to promote human rights, best practices, and safety for LGBTQI+ individuals and communities; and WHEREAS, the Conference creates a global platform to share strategies for eliminating bias, improving community trust, and protecting the dignity of LGBTQI+ people within criminal justice systems; and WHEREAS, LGBTQI+ communities continue to experience disproportionate discrimination, violence, and criminalization, and efforts to promote inclusion, cultural competence, and accountability within criminal justice institutions are critical to public safety and community well-being; and 1 https://library.municode.com/tx/austin/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT2AD_CH2- 1CIBO_ART3PEJOCO_S2-1-204JOINCO 2 Ibid., Page 1 of 2 WHEREAS, Austin, Texas, has a proud history of advancing progressive values and has declared itself a welcoming and inclusive city for all people, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin and its departments, including the Austin Police Department and other criminal justice stakeholders, can benefit from participation in international forums to learn and lead on LGBTQI+ equity issues. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Joint Inclusion committee expresses its strong support for the 4th World LGBTQI+ Conference for Criminal Justice Professionals. The Committee urges relevant City departments and criminal justice entities in Austin to participate in and engage with the Conference, to strengthen equity practices and build global partnerships. The Committee encourages the City Council to recognize the significance of the Conference and to explore opportunities for Austin to host or collaborate in future events that center LGBTQI+ inclusion and justice. The Committee affirms its ongoing commitment to advocating for policies and programs that protect the rights, dignity, and safety of all LGBTQI+ individuals in Austin, especially in interactions with the criminal justice system. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the …
Special Called Meeting of the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) Wednesday, May 7th, 2024, at 3:00 P.M. CST City of Austin Permitting and Development Center, Rooms #1406 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Austin, TX 78752 and some members may be attending via videoconference Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Alejandra Mireles (Equity and Inclusion Program Coordinator, Equity Office) at (512) 974-8045 or alejandra.mireles@austintexas.gov. CURRENT JIC MEMBER COMMISSIONS & REPRESENTATIVES: Member Commission: African American Resource Advisory Commission Asian American Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission Primary Representative: Justin Parsons Alternate Representative: Alexandria Anderson Sonny Sin Nayer Sikder Commission for Women Diana Melendez Becky Bullard Richard Bondi (Vice-Chair) Teresa Ferguson Miriam Dorantes Melissa Ortega Commission on Aging Commission on Immigrant Affairs Commission on Veterans Affairs Philip Reichert Alice Navarro Early Childhood Council Amanda Afifi (Chair) Hispanic/Latino Quality-of-Life Resource Advisory Commission Human Rights Commission LGBTQ+ Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Morgan Davis Jerry Joe Benson Lisa Chang Curtis Wyman Andrea McIllwain Daniela Silva Muneeb "Meebs" Aslam Katie Coyne VACANT 1 PURPOSE OF THE JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE: City Code § 2-1-204 mandates The Committee shall: 1) advise the council on issues pertaining to equity, diversity, and inclusion; and 2) promote close cooperation between the council, City management, City boards, commissions, committees, and taskforces, and individuals, institutions, and agencies to increase and sustain equity, diversity, and inclusion in the city. AGENDA CALL TO ORDER: PUBLIC COMMUNICATION 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. DISCUSSION & ACTION ITEMS 1. Discussion on bills filed during the 89th Texas Legislative Session, as they relate to the bylaws and priorities of the Joint Inclusion Committee, and its member commissions; with possible, but not limited to, action items such as returning to member commissions to consider writing Recommendations, returning to member commissions’ workgroups for action, scheduling meetings with Council Members to share updates, scheduling meetings with Texas Senators or Representatives for collaboration, and/or developing topics for Joint Inclusion Committee Recommendations. …
Joint Inclusion Committee & Member Commissions City Code Joint Inclusion Committee African American Resource Advisory Commission Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Commission on Aging Commission on Immigrant Affairs Commission on Veterans Affairs The Committee shall:(1) advise the council on issues pertaining to equity, diversity, and inclusion; and(2) promote close cooperation between the council, City management, City boards, commissions, committees, and taskforces, and individuals, institutions, and agencies to increase and sustain equity, diversity, and inclusion in the city. The commission shall advise the city council on issues relating to the quality of life for the City's African American community and shall recommend programs designed to alleviate any inequities that may confront African Americans in social, economic, and vocational pursuits, including:(1) health care;(2) housing, including affordable housing, home ownership, and homelessness;(3) entertainment opportunities for professionals and students;(4) employment; and (5) cultural venues, including museums, theaters, art galleries, and music venues.(D) The commission shall advise the council on matters related to the African American Cultural and Heritage Facility, the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center, and the African American Cultural Heritage District. The commission shall:(1) review and make recommendations to the council on aviation projects that the Department of Aviation proposes for the capital improvements program;(2) review and make recommendations to the council on proposed aviation grants, including airport trust funds administered by the Federal Aviation Administration;(3) review and make recommendations to the council on aviation contracts that are presented by the Department of Aviation to the council for action;(4) review and make recommendations to the council on the annual operating budget proposed by the Department of Aviation; and(5) review and make policy recommendations to the council on the quality of services at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport to citizens of Austin and customers of the airport and long term planning of Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. The Commission on Aging shall serve as an advisory board to the council concerning the quality of life for older adults in the Austin area and to help ensure they are productive, independent, and healthy.The commission shall:(1) advise the council on issues related to the older adult population in the Austin area;(2) evaluate and recommend programs, policies, and practices that create a positive impact and reduce the burden on older adults;(3) determine the needs of older adults in the Austin community, and advise council regarding these needs; and(4) promote the contributions of older adults to the cultural, …
Regular Meeting of the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) Wednesday, April 23rd, 2025, at 3:00 P.M. CST Boards and Commission Room #1101, 301 W. Second Street, Austin, TX 78701 and some members may be attending via videoconference Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Alejandra Mireles (Equity and Inclusion Program Coordinator, Equity Division) at (512) 974-8045 or alejandra.mireles@austintexas.gov. CURRENT JIC MEMBER COMMISSIONS & REPRESENTATIVES: Member Commission: African American Resource Advisory Commission Asian American Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission Primary Representative: Justin Parsons Alternate Representative: Alexandra Anderson Sonny Sin Nayer Sikder Commission for Women Diana Melendez Becky Bullard Richard Bondi (Vice-Chair) Teresa Ferguson Miriam Dorantes Melissa Ortega Commission on Aging Commission on Immigrant Affairs Commission on Veterans Affairs Philip Reichert Alice Navarro Early Childhood Council Amanda Afifi (Chair) Hispanic/Latino Quality-of-Life Resource Advisory Commission Human Rights Commission LGBTQ+ Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Morgan Davis Jerry Joe Benson Lisa Chang Curtis Wyman Andrea McIllwain Daniela Silva Muneeb "Meebs" Aslam Katie Coyne Vacant 1 PURPOSE OF THE JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE: City Code § 2-1-204 mandates The Committee shall: 1) advise the council on issues pertaining to equity, diversity, and inclusion; and 2) promote close cooperation between the council, City management, City boards, commissions, committees, and taskforces, and individuals, institutions, and agencies to increase and sustain equity, diversity, and inclusion in the city. AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION 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. 2. Approve the minutes of the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE’s REGULAR MEETING on FEBRUARY 26TH, 2025. Approve the minutes of the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE’s REGULAR MEETING on MARCH 26TH, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Briefing on the Austin Lesbian & Gay Peace Officers Association and the 4th World LGBTQI+ Conference for Criminal Justice Professionals, August 5-8, 2025 by Sgt. Michael Wilmore-Crumrine (he/him). DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. 5. 6. 7. Discussion on reappointment of Primary and Secondary Representative to the Joint Inclusion Committee, before the end of …
JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) convened a regular meeting on WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2025, at 3:00 P.M. CST in the BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM #1101 (301 W. Second Street, Austin, Texas 78701) Chair AMANDA AFIFI called the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE meeting to order at 3:05 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission: Amanda Afifi (Chair) Commission on Aging: Richard Bondi (Vice-Chair) Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: African American Resource Advisory Commission: Elaina Fowler Asian American Quality of Life Commission: Nayer Sikder Commission on Immigrant Affairs: Melissa Ortega Commission for Women: Becky Bullard Early Childhood Council: Alice Navarro Human Rights Commission: Morgan Davis LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Commission: Jerry Joe Benson Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities: Jennifer Powell Commissioners Absent: Commission on Veterans Affairs: Philip Reichert or Curtis Wyman PURPOSE OF THE JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE: City Code § 2-1-204 mandates The Committee shall: 1) advise the council on issues pertaining to equity, diversity, and inclusion; and 2) promote close cooperation between the council, City management, City boards, commissions, committees, and taskforces, and individuals, institutions, and agencies to increase and sustain equity, diversity, and inclusion in the city. APPROVAL OF MINUTES AGENDA 1. Approve the minutes of the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE’s REGULAR MEETING on JANUARY 22, 2025. 1 The minutes for the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE’s JANUARY 22ND, 2025 MEETING were approved at the FEBRUARY 26th, MEETING on COMMISSIONER BECKY BULLARD’s motion, COMMISSIONER MORGAN DAVIS’ second, on a 10-0 vote. (Absent: Commission on Veterans Affairs: Commissioners Phillip Reichert or Curtis Wyman) DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Discussion on the Budget Recommendation Writing Process for the Joint Inclusion Committee’s member Commissions. Updates on member commission’s budget workgroups. Discussion on member Commissions FY26 Budget Recommendation’s topics and progress. Updates on member commissions’ budget recommendation topics; including funding updated quality of life studies, communicating with the arts commission, and supporting the Paramount Theatre. Discussion on maintaining quorum in the Joint Inclusion Committee’s member Commissioners through the FY2025-26 Budget Recommendation writing period by using the City’s holdover period. Updates include attendance at member commissions. Discussion on updates from the Commission on Aging on the Age Friendly Action Plan as it relates to the JIC. Updates include a change in the vocabulary of the plan. The word initiatives will be used to allow for an addendum to the plan when the Commission on Aging’s …
African American Resource Advisory COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250304-004 Date: March 4, 2025 Subject: Austin Public Library Black Literature Expansion Motioned By: Commissioner Smith Seconded By: Commissioner Linder Recommendation $1.5M Description of Recommendation to Council It is essential for the City of Austin to increase the budget of the Austin Public Library beyond the zero- based budget by $1.5M to support a meaningful investment in African American literature within the library's collection. This investment would not only benefit the African American community but also underscore Austin's dedication to embracing diversity and promoting equitable access to valuable literary resources. African American Literature would recommend including but not limited to playwrights, books on tape and digital, hardcopy, movies. including documentaries, and hosting black authors, playwriters and poets to come speak at the APL. Rationale: The current political climate is having a detrimental impact on youth and young adults who seek to connect with and learn from their cultural heritage through literature. This issue is particularly evident in the realm of African American authors and their works, which shed light on the struggles and experiences of African American communities. Public libraries are an integral part of our society, nurturing the minds of future generations. As Public Schools continue to reclaim their library autonomy it is vital Austin Public libraries expand their catalog to educate and inspire all individuals through the power of cultural reading. Public libraries serve as a vital resource for African American communities, offering summer reading programs and access to culturally specific literature and media. Therefore, the insufficient amount of African American literature in Austin Public Libraries would be a disservice to African Americans residing within the city limits and to all who have the curiosity to embrace diversity and learn from their stories. Investing in culturally significant African American literature would be a positive step for the Austin Public Library system, reinforcing Austin's commitment to inclusivity and diversity by addressing challenging topics such as institutional racism and implicit bias. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Recommendation $200,000 Description of Recommendation to Council $120K Bowling Center Bowling equipment at Millennium is more than 50 years old having been received from Bergstrom AFB. (Unique opportunity because of the closure of Highland Lanes) It needs major 1 of 3 upgrades and repair to compete with market competitors. Total renovation cost is $400K. A contribution of $120K would allow the Millennium to complete Phase I, adding lane lighting and bumpers to …
JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) convened a regular meeting on WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 2025, at 3:00 P.M. CST in the BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM #1101 (301 W. Second Street, Austin, Texas 78701) Vice-Chair RICHARD BONDI called the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE meeting to order at 3:03 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission: Amanda Afifi (Chair) Commission on Aging: Richard Bondi (Vice-Chair) Early Childhood Council: Alice Navarro Commission on Immigrant Affairs: Melissa Ortega Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: African American Resource Advisory Commission: Elaina Fowler Asian American Quality of Life Commission: Sonny Sin Commission for Women: Diana Melendez Human Rights Commission: Morgan Davis LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Commission: Jerry Joe Benson Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities: Lisa Chang Commission on Veterans Affairs: Curtis Wyman PURPOSE OF THE JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE: City Code § 2-1-204 mandates The Committee shall: 1) advise the council on issues pertaining to equity, diversity, and inclusion; and 2) promote close cooperation between the council, City management, City boards, commissions, committees, and taskforces, and individuals, institutions, and agencies to increase and sustain equity, diversity, and inclusion in the city. AGENDA 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 1. Approve the minutes of the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE’s REGULAR MEETING on FEBRUARY 26TH, 2025. Action Postponed. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. 5. Discussion on the Budget Recommendation Writing Process for the Joint Inclusion Committee’s member Commissions, including submitting the form for each budget recommendations. Discussion on reappointment to the Joint Inclusion Committee, before the end of April, by emailing the Chairs of Member Commissions, and the staff liaisons, to sponsor an agenda item. Discussion on supporting Joint Inclusion Committee’s Member Commissions’ budget recommendations by following up with appointing Council Members or Mayor (i.e., following up with appointing Council Members regarding the creation of the Native American and Indigenous Community Commission.) Discussion on upcoming April 16 Fair Housing Conference & Resource Hub and how the opportunity relates to the Joint Inclusion Committee’s Member Commissions’ priorities. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. 8. 9. Discussion and possible action on a Joint Inclusion Committee’s budget recommendation for the City of Austin Fiscal Year Budget 25-26 regarding Translation and Interpretation Services for Boards …
Presentation to Joint Inclusion Committee Lesbian & Gay Peace Officers Association - Austin 4th World LGBTQI+ Conference for Criminal Justice Professionals August 5-8, 2025 proudtobeyourfriend.org Lesbian and Gay Peace Officers Association-Austin • LGPOA founded 2009 • Service, Education, Protection • First and only of its kind in Texas • 171 active, over 65 associate members • Why did we form? • It was a different time in the early 2000’s • Lawrence V. Texas – 2003 • We’ve always been a part of Austin’s LGBTQIA+ community • Marched in Pride in uniform • It Gets Better Video (2012) (second police department in U.S. to do so) Lesbian and Gay Peace Officers Association-Austin • Murder of Monica Loera (January 22, 2016) • Brought community partners together to improve the relationship with the community • Department wide training • Policy changes • Public Information Office adopted GLAAD media model • Victim neutral affidavit • Search protocol • Change how we document in our reports • Training for every cadet class since 2016 • Engaging the transgender, gender non-conforming, gender non-binary, gender-fluid community • LGBTQIA+ intimate partner violence & sexual assault (first in Texas to do so) • Pulse Night Club Vigil on Fourth Street (June 13, 2016) City of Austin – Trans Inclusive Benefits Lesbian and Gay Peace Officers Association-Austin • First Pride car in Texas (2016) • I Am Like You Campaign (2018) • Attack of gay couple in downtown Austin (Hate Crime, January 23, 2019) • Officer Matthew Nonweiler’s relationship with bars helped solve case • Lauched SafePlace Program (August 7, 2019) • Pride patch (2021) – 1st in Texas; 1st in nation to use Progress Pride flag • Stop the Bleed Program (2023 & 2024) • Corporal Nonweiler & Detective Dawson 4th WORLD LGBTQI+ CONFERENCE FOR CRIMINAL JUSTICE PROFESSIONALS A one-of-a-kind conference For nearly a decade, this conference has provided a forum for LGBTQI+ criminal justice professionals, educators, and human rights advocates from all over the world to come together to discuss current challenges and meaningful solutions. This event provides valuable learning and networking opportunities, explores ideas for strengthening engagement with LGBTQI+ communities and building collaborations, and helps to identify strategies to ultimately lead to better policing practices and more inclusive agencies and communities. How/why did it come to Austin? The conference will help to Bridge the Gap between the LGBTQI+ community and the criminal justice profession so anyone, …
JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) convened a regular meeting on WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 2025, at 3:00 P.M. CST in the BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM #1101 (301 W. Second Street, Austin, Texas 78701) Vice-Chair RICHARD BONDI called the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE meeting to order at 3:03 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission: Amanda Afifi (Chair) Commission on Aging: Richard Bondi (Vice-Chair) Early Childhood Council: Andrea McIllwain Commission on Immigrant Affairs: Melissa Ortega LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission: Jerry Joe Benson Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: African American Resource Advisory Commission: Elaina Fowler Asian American Quality of Life Commission: Sonny Sin Commission for Women: Diana Melendez Human Rights Commission: Morgan Davis Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities: Lisa Chang Commission on Veterans Affairs: Curtis Wyman PURPOSE OF THE JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE: City Code § 2-1-204 mandates The Committee shall: 1) advise the council on issues pertaining to equity, diversity, and inclusion; and 2) promote close cooperation between the council, City management, City boards, commissions, committees, and taskforces, and individuals, institutions, and agencies to increase and sustain equity, diversity, and inclusion in the city. AGENDA 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 1. Approve the minutes of the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE’s REGULAR MEETING on FEBRUARY 26TH, 2025. Action Postponed. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. 5. Discussion on the Budget Recommendation Writing Process for the Joint Inclusion Committee’s member Commissions, including submitting the form for each budget recommendations. Discussion on reappointment to the Joint Inclusion Committee, before the end of April, by emailing the Chairs of Member Commissions, and the staff liaisons, to sponsor an agenda item. Discussion on supporting Joint Inclusion Committee’s Member Commissions’ budget recommendations by following up with appointing Council Members or Mayor (i.e., following up with appointing Council Members regarding the creation of the Native American and Indigenous Community Commission.) Discussion on upcoming April 16 Fair Housing Conference & Resource Hub and how the opportunity relates to the Joint Inclusion Committee’s Member Commissions’ priorities. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. 8. 9. Discussion and possible action on a Joint Inclusion Committee’s budget recommendation for the City of Austin Fiscal Year Budget 25-26 regarding Translation and Interpretation Services for …
