Recommendation on Austin Climate Action and Resilience Budget 20260722-006 — original pdf

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Joint Sustainability Committee Recommendation on Austin Climate Action and Resilience Budget 20260722-006 Date: July 22, 2026 Subject: 2027 Budget Recommendation on Austin Climate Action and Resilience FY Motioned By: Seconded By: Recommendation Recommendation to retain $75,000 Food and Climate Equity (FACE) Grants as part of the Austin Climate Action and Resilience budget for FY 2027 Description of Recommendation to Council The Joint Sustainability Committee recommends that the City Council keep $75,000 Food and Climate Equity Grants as part of the Austin Climate Action and Resilience budget for FY 2027. Rationale: “The Food and Climate Equity (FACE) Grant program supports a more just and resilient Austin by providing direct funding for community-led solutions that enable transformative change in the areas of food, climate, and resilience. The program aims to uplift the experience of those most impacted by systemic and structural inequities, eliminate disparities in health outcomes, and improve quality of life for all.” FACE grants are up to $3,000 to support community organizations that represent and/or serve racially and economically diverse Austinites and have unique insight into their communities' needs. In 2024, $150,000 was allocated to FACE grants, providing funding for 50 different community projects. Projects included food delivery services to a variety of vulnerable populations, support for community gardens, nutrition education programs and more. The program leverages significant community capital in the form of volunteer hours. The program has since been cut to $75,000, but is still making a meaningful impact and should be maintained at that level for FY 2027. Vote For: Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: [Staff or board member can sign]