Recommendation 20250317-007: Allocation of Seed Money for LGBTQ Cultural and Community Center — original pdf

Recommendation

COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20250317-007: Allocation of Seed Money for LGBTQ Cultural and Community Center Motioned by: Commissioner Brown Seconded by: Commissioner Davis WHEREAS, the City of Austin has previously invested in feasibility studies to explore the development of an LGBTQ cultural and community center as per RECOMMENDATION 20240708-06; WHEREAS, the creation of such a center is critical to supporting the vibrant LGBTQIA+ community in Austin, providing a space for cultural expression, education, and community services; and WHEREAS, the LGBTQ Quality of Life Commission, along with the Task Force and the city’s Real Estate Office, are actively engaged in the planning and development of this center; and WHEREAS, continuous funding is essential to maintain momentum and ensure the success of these efforts, building upon the groundwork laid by prior studies and planning phases; WHEREAS, an adequately funded initiative is essential for the realization of the cultural and community center, which aims to enhance the quality of life for LGBTQIA+ residents and contribute to the cultural richness of Austin; and WHEREAS, the allocated funds will be used for engaging expert consultants, project planners, and informants, ensuring comprehensive planning and execution, as well as covering administrative and operational expenses directly associated with the Task Force's efforts and the strategic development of the Community Center; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the LGBTQ Quality of Life Commission recommends that any FY 2025 funding for the LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center feasibility study ($180,000) remaining at the end of FY2025 be rolled over to the FY2026 Budget. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate an additional $50,000 as funding to continue Page 1 of 2 community engagement efforts around the LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center and begin updates to the LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Study. Date of Approval: March 17, 2025 Record of the vote: Approved on a 10-0 vote. For: Chair Neal, Commissioners Andersen, Bandit, Brown, Coyne, Davis, Fierro-Pérez, Krueger, McLeod, Treviño Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Vice Chair Benson, Commissioners Brookins, Wollerson Attest: _____________________________________________ (LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Staff Liaison) Page 2 of 2