REGULAR MEETING OF THE LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION MONDAY, AUGUST 17, 2026 AT 7:00 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, COUNCIL CHAMBERS 301 W 2ND ST. AUSTIN, TEXAS 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, contact Ryan Sperling at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS : Commissioner Appointment Commissioner Kitty McLeod, Vice Chair (she/they) District 1 Mariana Krueger (she/her) Appointment District 9 KC Shepherd Coyne, Chair (they/he) District 2 Devan Daniel (he/him) District 10 Steven Rivas (he/him) District 3 Rocío Fierro-Pérez (she/her/ella) Mayor Brigitte Bandit (they/she) District 4 Morgan Davis (he/him) Jerry Joe Benson, Secretary (he/him) District 5 Randy Pituk (he/him) Asher Knutson (he/him) District 6 Marlon Johnson (he/him) J. Scott Neal (he/him) District 7 Anna Nguyen (she/her) Garry Brown District 8 Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 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 LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting of July 20, 2026. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Special Called Meeting of August 12, 2026. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. Update on progress of the LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center Feasibility Study. Presentation by Mark Gilbert, Director, Hayat Brown, and Brian Carlson, Principal, McKinney York. Presentation regarding a review of the LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center Feasibility Study and next steps. Presentation by John Stenzel, AIA, 2026 Chair; and Zachary Henry- Litchliter, AIA, 2026 Chair-Elect, American Institute of Architects Austin LGBTQIA+ Alliance. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a recommendation supporting the LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center Feasibility Study and next steps. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Ryan Sperling at …
LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, JULY 20, 2026 The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a special called meeting on Monday, July 20 at 6:30 PM at Austin City Hall, 301 W 2nd St., Austin, Texas 78701, Boards & Commissions Room 1101. Commissioners in attendance in person: Jerry Joe Benson (Secretary) Garry Brown Marlon Johnson Asher Knutson Mariana Krueger J. Scott Neal Anna Nguyen Randy Pituk Steven Rivas Commissioners in attendance remotely: Brigitte Bandit Devan Daniel Morgan Davis Rocío Fierro-Pérez Secretary Benson called the meeting to order at 6:32PM. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Ry Vaz – Crosswalk Removal Hya – Crosswalk Removal Devyn Person – State / Local Laws APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on June 15, 2026. The minutes of the June 15, 2026 special called meeting were approved during the July 20, 2026 regular meeting on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Commissioner Johnson’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioners Bandit, Davis, and Fierro-Pérez were o(cid:431) dais. Chair Coyne and Vice Chair McLeod were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Sta(cid:431) briefing regarding Austin Police communication and engagement with LGBTQ+ communities; gaps and challenges; status of the Community Liaison O(cid:431)icer program; and Austin Police policies, training, and initiatives related to the LGBTQ+ community. Briefing by Chief Lisa Davis, Austin Police. Briefing given by Chief Lisa Davis, Austin Police, Sargent Mike…, President of LGBTQ A(cid:431)inity Group, Austin Police and O(cid:431)icer Jacob Dawson, Community Liaison Group Leader, Austin Police. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation to introduce Queer MMA ATX and provide information on an upcoming Queer Fight Night in Spring 2027. Presentation by Luis Villareal and Marléne M. Feliz Nina, Queer MMA ATX. Presentation given by Luis Villareal and Marléne M. Feliz Nina, Queer MMA ATX. 4. Presentation regarding OutYouth’s programming, history, challenges, and successes. Presentation by Jaryn Holbrook Janeway, Executive Director, OutYouth. Presentation given by Jaryn Holbrook Janeway, Executive Director, OutYouth. The meeting went into recess without objection at 8:56 p.m. The meeting reconvened at 9:02 p.m. 5. Recognition of Commissioner Rivas’ work on Mayor’s Task Force on Public Spaces and discussion of community celebrations in June. Discussed. 6. Discussion to collect feedback on what to include in the 2025 Annual Report. Discussed. 7. Discussion regarding priorities for the August meeting and a potential community social event before. Discussed. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 8. Update from the LGBTQIA+ …
LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2026 The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a special called meeting on Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at 5:00 PM at Austin Energy Headquarters, 4815 Mueller Blvd, Shudde Fath Assembly Room. Commissioners in attendance in person: Jerry Joe Benson (Secretary) Devan Daniel Randy Pituk Steven Rivas Commissioners in attendance remotely: KC Coyne (Chair) Kitty McCleod (Vice Chair) Garry Brown Marlon Johnson Secretary Benson called the meeting to order at 5:19 P.M. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 1. Recommendation from the Budget Follow-Up Working Group regarding its budget priorities for the FY2026-27 City of Austin budget. Report provided by Secretary Benson. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding FY2026-27 LGBTQ+ Budget Priorities. The meeting went into recess due to a loss of quorum at 5:26 P.M. The meeting called back to order at 5:29 P.M. The recommendation to Council regarding FY2026-27 LGBTQ+ Budget Priorities was approved on Commissioner Brown’s motion, Commissioner Daniel’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Bandit, Davis, Fierro-Perez, Knutson, Krueger, Neal, and Nguyen were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Travis County Sheri(cid:431)’s O(cid:431)ice in September Human Rights Impact Review by Shafina Khaki Phase APD Care O(cid:431)icers Proposal ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned without objection at 5:31 P.M.
Appendices Appendices Appendix 1 Detailed Case Studies Appendix 2 Site Evaluation Detail Appendix 3 Supplemental Site Considerations Appendix 4 Space Program Development Appendix 5 Site Evaluation Criteria Detail 98 123 126 132 143 97 98 Appendix 1 Detailed Case Studies Pride Center at Equality Park, Wilton Manors, FL Founded in 1993, the Pride Center at Equality Park has grown into one of South Florida’s most vibrant LGBTQ+ organizations. The Center offers a welcoming home where individuals, families, and allies can build community and find support. Its holistic approach blends social connection with critical services, including the nation’s first affordable supportive housing for LGBTQ+ seniors. Programs such as the acclaimed Active Aging initiative and Coffee & Conversation gatherings make the Center a model of inclusion, resilience, and celebration. Governance 501(c)(3) nonprofit Major Donors Alan Schubert (founder) Graves LGBT Cultural Fund AIDS Healthcare Foundation Construction Type Renovation Site Control Own Bldg. Constructed/Center Open 2009 (reno) Acquisition Cost Renovation Cost $4.75M $1M Campus Size 5.5 acres Facility Area 30,000sf Employees 40 Key Services 1. Health Initiatives 2. Support Groups 3. Advocacy and education 4. Active Aging Program 5. Supportive Housing Revenue 3% 13% 84% $2.7M Contributions & Grants Program Services Investment Income Other Revenue Expenses 46% 54% Salaries & Compensation Other Expenses $2.8M LGBT Community Center, New York, NY In the heart of the West Village, the LGBT Community Center has served New Yorkers since 1983, when it was founded during the height of the AIDS crisis. The Center is both a cultural anchor and a provider of essential health, wellness, and advocacy services. Its programs span generations, from youth drop-in and leadership initiatives to HIV counseling through Center CARE. With cultural events, support groups, and community outreach, the Center endures as a beacon of empowerment and solidarity. Governance 501(c)(3) nonprofit Major Donors Michael Kors Lance Le Pere Peter Speliopoulos Key Services 1. Mental Health Support 2. Youth Programs 3. Advocacy 4. Cultural Events Revenue 3% 9% 86% Contributions & Grants Program Services Investment Income Other Revenue $16.1M Construction Type Renovation Expenses Site Control Own Bldg. Constructed/Center Open 1983 (built) Acquisition Cost Renovation Cost $1.5M $9.2M Campus Size N/A Facility Area 27,000sf Employees 100+ 33% 67% Salaries & Compensation Other Expenses $18.6M LGBT Center of Raleigh, Raleigh, NC Since originally opening in 2010, the LGBT Center of Raleigh has become a vital hub for connection, education, and advocacy across the inclusive Triangle. The …
LGBTQIA CULTURAL CENTERLGBTQIA CULTURAL CENTERCost Estimate UpdatesMYA PROJECT #: 2519FEASIBILITY STUDYMcKinney York Architects06,18,2026 ADJACENT BUILDING ADJACENT BUILDING STORAGE 150 FT2 STORAGE 150 FT2 EXISTING RESTROOM TO BE RENOVATED TO COMPLY W/ CODE EXISTING RESTROOM OFFICE 2 200 FT2 OFFICE 2 200 FT2 LARGE MULTI-PURPOSE ROOM 1,270 FT2 COULD ACCOMMODATE HEALTHCARE OUTREACH AREA LARGE MULTI-PURPOSE ROOM 1,270 FT2 COULD ACCOMMODATE HEALTHCARE OUTREACH AREA OFFICE 1 125 FT2 PRIVATE ACCESS ENTRY I T O L G N K R A P E C I F F O PRIVATE ACCESS ENTRY I T O L G N K R A P E C I F F O ELEVATOR 80 FT2 ELEVATOR 80 FT2 EXISTING STAIRS EXISTING EXISTING RESTROOM STAIRS TO BE RENOVATED TO COMPLY W/ CODE EXISTING RESTROOM OFFICE 1 125 FT2 EXISTING MECH EXISTING MECH CIRCULATION PUBLIC CORRIDOR 1 230 FT2 BREAK ROOM 150 FT2 EXISTING RESTROOM COPY/PRINT WORK ROOM 60 FT2 EXISTING RESTROOM COPY/PRINT WORK ROOM 60 FT2 LOBBY 445 FT2 COULD ACCOMMODATE LIBRARY LOBBY 445 FT2 COULD ACCOMMODATE LIBRARY DROP-IN SPACE/ LOUNGE 260 FT2 ADDITIONAL DROP-IN SPACE/ LOUNGE OFFICE 260 FT2 132 FT2 T E E R T S E P U L A D A U G ADDITIONAL OFFICE 150 FT2 ADDITIONAL OFFICE 132 FT2 C I L B U P S S E C C A Y R T N E C I L B U P S S E C C A Y R T N E PRIVATE DRIVEWAY PRIVATE DRIVEWAY AREA TABULATION CORE SPACES Planned 500 FT2 150 FT2 150 FT2 - 150 FT2 600 FT2 1,200 FT2 Space Type Lobby Lounge/Seating Area Office 1 Office 2 Copy/Print Work Room Break Room Medium Multi-Purpose Room Large Multi-Purpose Room (Includes Healthcare Outreach) Restrooms Storage Circulation Elevator ETR 150 FT2 - - Total: 2,900 FT2 PRIORITY B SPACES 800 FT2 300 FT2 150 FT2 ea. 1,250 FT2 4,150 FT2 Total: GRAND TOTAL: Kitchen/Cafe & Food Pantry T Drop-In Space / Lounge E E Additional Office R T S Actual 445 FT2 125 FT2 200 FT2 60 FT2 150 FT2 850 FT2 2,995 FT2 ETR 275 FT2 720 FT2 80 FT2 5,900 FT2 775 FT2 260 FT2 132 FT2 1,167 FT2 7,067 FT2 E P U L A D A U G LGBTQIA Center - Construction Cost Estimates PRELIMINARY OPINION OF PROBABLE COST* Guadalupe Fire Station Construction Cost Estimate *Preliminary Opinion of Probable Cost* SQ FT 5,900 1,167 Core …
Austin LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center Feasibility Study Final Report June 2026 Acknowledgements Thank you to LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center Task Force members for dedicating your time to support this initiative. 1 Task Force Members Awais Azhar Juan Benitez David Colligan Laura Esparza Mallory Hart Travis Holler Micah King Kelle’ Martin Mia Diya-Bernhard Lesley Varghese Brandon Wallerson Syd Young Support Shafina Khaki, City of Austin, Executive Liaison Christine Maguire, City of Austin Kit Johnson, City of Austin KC Coyne, LGBTQ Quality of Life Commission Ryan Sperling, City of Austin, Staff Liaison Hayat Brown Team Mark Gilbert, Hayat Brown Brian Carlson, McKinney York Architects Laura Caicedo, Hayat Brown Sarah Esserlieu Khalil, Hayat Brown 2 Table of Contents Executive Summary Background Data Gathering and Benchmarking Needs Assessment and Space Program Site Evaluation Criteria Site Evaluations Ownership and Management Structures Development and Acquisition Structures Funding Options Recommendations Appendices 3 13 22 38 50 53 67 72 81 89 96 Executive Summary 4 Executive Summary Background For nearly a decade, community advocates and the LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Commission have worked to make an LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center a reality in Austin—one of the largest cities in the United States without a dedicated space of this kind. In August 2024, Austin City Council passed Resolution 20240814-022 directing the City Manager to launch a feasibility study to identify potential sites, funding strategies, and a development timeline for the center. To help shape this work, the LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Commission recommended the creation of a 12-member Task Force to provide guidance, community input, and strategic direction throughout the study process. As part of the FY2025 budget process, the City of Austin appropriated $180,000 to support the feasibility study and subsequently selected the Hayat Brown Team to lead this effort in partnership with the LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center Task Force. Executive Summary Process The Hayat Brown Team embarked on a 12-month, Task Force-driven effort to refine facility needs and identify a path to project feasibility. Together, stakeholders reviewed benchmark facilities and case studies to understand commonalities, trends, and key features of similar cultural centers. They used these insights to inform a recommended space program, site evaluation criteria, and to define ownership, acquisition, and funding options. 5 Background Data Gathering and Benchmarking Needs Assessment and Space Programming Site Evaluation Criteria Site …
LGBTQIA+ QUALITY OF LIFE COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Recommendation to Designate the Guadalupe Fire Station as the Future Site of the Austin LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center and Advance a Funded Implementation Plan WHEREAS, the City of Austin is committed to creating an inclusive and equitable community in which LGBTQIA+ residents have access to safe, welcoming, accessible, and affirming spaces, services, cultural programming, and opportunities for community connection; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin’s LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Study identified the establishment of a dedicated LGBTQIA+ community and cultural center as one of its principal recommendations and found a continuing need for safe spaces, community resources, advocacy, social connection, and cultural enrichment for Austin’s diverse LGBTQIA+ population; and WHEREAS, for nearly a decade, the LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Commission, community advocates, nonprofit organizations, cultural leaders, service providers, and residents have worked to advance the creation of Austin’s first permanent and dedicated LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center; and WHEREAS, public town halls, surveys, constituent input, community leaders, the LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center Task Force, and the Quality of Life Study have consistently identified the need for a centrally located and transit-accessible center offering flexible gathering spaces, cultural and artistic programming, health and wellness outreach, community services, educational opportunities, non-bar social activities, and intergenerational programming; and WHEREAS, on August 14, 2024, the Austin City Council adopted Resolution No. 20240814-022 directing the City Manager to conduct a feasibility study addressing potential sites, funding strategies, and a development timeline for an LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center; and WHEREAS, the City subsequently appropriated funding for the feasibility study and established a LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center Task Force to provide community guidance, review potential sites, develop site-selection criteria, prioritize facility and program needs, and evaluate ownership, management, funding, and implementation options; and WHEREAS, the resulting Austin LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center Feasibility Study represents approximately 12 months of research, benchmarking, architectural analysis, community input, Task Force deliberation, site evaluation, and collaboration among the City of Austin, the LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Commission, the Task Force, community stakeholders, Hayat Brown, and McKinney York Architects; and WHEREAS, after considering the feasibility study, the work and recommendations of the Task Force, the Quality of Life Study, public engagement, surveys, community and constituent input, and the continuing work of the Cultural Center Working Group, the LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Commission has determined that the Guadalupe Fire Station provides the best available path forward for establishing Austin’s first permanent LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center; and …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2026 AT 5:00 P.M. AUSTIN ENERGY HEADQUARTERS, MUELLER ASSEMBLY RM 1111 A&B 4815 MUELLER BLVD AUSTIN, TEXAS 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, contact Ryan Sperling at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Commissioner Appointment Commissioner Kitty McLeod, Vice Chair (she/they) District 1 Mariana Krueger (she/her) Appointment District 9 KC Shepherd Coyne, Chair (they/he) District 2 Devan Daniel (he/him) District 10 Steven Rivas (he/him) District 3 Rocío Fierro-Pérez (she/her/ella) Mayor Brigitte Bandit (they/she) District 4 Morgan Davis (he/him) Jerry Joe Benson, Secretary (he/him) District 5 Randy Pituk (he/him) Asher Knutson (he/him) District 6 Marlon Johnson (he/him) J. Scott Neal (he/him) District 7 Anna Nguyen (she/her) Garry Brown District 8 Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 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. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 1. Recommendation from the Budget Follow-Up Working Group regarding its budget priorities for the FY2026-27 City of Austin budget. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding FY2026-27 LGBTQ+ Budget Priorities. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Ryan Sperling at Austin City Clerk’s Office, at 512- 974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov, to request service or for additional information. For more information on the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission, please contact Ryan Sperling at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov.
FY2026–27 LGBTQIA+ Budget Advocacy Priorities White Page This document summarizes the Working Group’s recommended advocacy priorities, it does not represent an official Commission position unless adopted by the full Commission. Our priorities are, in order: housing, healthcare, safety, legal assistance, and community place making. Most of these proposals strengthen existing programs and invest in fiscally responsible prevention. We also ask for clear accountability, including responsible departments and implementation timelines. 1. Housing Stabilization and Homelessness Assistance ● Protect and increase funding for existing housing stabilization, rental assistance, homelessness prevention, and emergency housing programs. ● Ensure City-funded programs provide safe, affirming, and accountable services for LGBTQIA+ residents, particularly transgender and gender-diverse residents. Ask: Maintain and expand proven housing assistance programs while reviewing whether LGBTQIA+ residents can access those programs safely and equitably. 2. LGBTQIA+ Legal Navigation and Community Safety Coordination ● Support coordinated assistance that helps LGBTQIA+ residents navigate legal concerns, safety incidents, referrals, and available City or community services. ● Head count here can provide residents with a clear point of contact and produce tangible, measurable results without creating a large new program. Ask: Fund legal-navigation and community-safety coordination through the Equity Office by having a dedicated resource. 3. APD LGBTQ+ Community Liaison Program ● Dedicate approximately $40,000 from the proposed APD budget to support the new LGBTQ+ and Community Liaison program. ● Funding should support written responsibilities, specialized training, community listening sessions, outreach materials, performance measures, backup coverage, and long-term continuity. Ask: Provide the new liaison with the resources and structure needed to create long term viability and meet the Chief’s stated goal of making this a full time role. 4. MPox, HIV/STI, and Vaccination Programs ● Follow Austin Public Health’s recommendation to maintain and expand MPox vaccination, HIV/STI testing, prevention, treatment navigation, outreach, and community-provider partnerships. ● These proven services save lives, prevent avoidable harm, and reduce the need for more expensive medical treatment later. This is truly an ounce of prevention worth a pound of cure. Ask: Fully fund Austin Public Health’s recommended service levels for MPox vaccination and HIV/STI prevention and ensure these essential programs are not reduced. 5. Safe and Proud Entertainment Corridor Support Stop the Bleed training, CPR/AED access, venue coordination, and emergency preparedness along Bettie Naylor and West Fourth Street. (The alarm component is not included.) Ask: Fund these safety measures and assign clear departmental responsibility for implementation. 6. LGBTQ Entertainment District and Micro-PID …
RECOMMENDATION REGARDING FY2026–27 LGBTQ+ BUDGET PRIORITIES Recommendation No. 2026________ WHEREAS, the LGBTQ Quality of Life Commission has previously adopted recommendations addressing housing stability, public health, community safety, legal assistance, and LGBTQ+ cultural infrastructure; and WHEREAS, the Commission’s Budget Working Group reviewed the City Manager’s proposed FY2026-27 budget, departmental responses, and the status of previously submitted Commission recommendations; and WHEREAS, investments in housing stabilization, disease prevention, emergency preparedness, and early access to services can prevent harm, save lives, and reduce more costly interventions later; and WHEREAS, several Commission priorities remain unfunded, partially funded, or without a clearly responsible department, implementation timeline, or path toward completion; and WHEREAS, the Commission has identified six priorities for immediate Council consideration during the FY2026-27 budget process; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: The Commission recommends that the Austin City Council: 1. Housing Stabilization and Homelessness Assistance: Maintain and increase funding for housing stabilization, rental assistance, homelessness prevention, and emergency housing programs, while ensuring that LGBTQ+ residents-particularly transgender and gender-diverse residents-can access services safely and equitably. 2. Legal Navigation and Community Safety Coordination: Fund a dedicated Equity Office resource to help LGBTQIA2S+ residents navigate legal concerns, safety incidents, referrals, and available City and community services. 3. APD LGBTQ+ Community Liaison Program: Dedicate approximately $40,000 from the proposed APD budget to support the LGBTQ+ Community Liaison Program through specialized training, outreach, community engagement, performance measures, backup coverage, and long-term continuity, with the goal of establishing a sustainable full-time role. 4. MPox, HIV/STI, and Vaccination Programs: Fully fund Austin Public Health’s recommended service levels for MPox vaccination and HIV/STI prevention, testing, treatment navigation, outreach, and community-provider partnerships, and ensure these essential services are not reduced. 5. Safe and Proud Entertainment Corridor: Fund Stop the Bleed training, CPR and AED access, venue coordination, and emergency preparedness along Bettie Naylor and West Fourth Street, excluding the previously proposed alarm component, and assign clear departmental responsibility for implementation. 6. LGBTQ Entertainment District and Micro-PID: Direct the Economic Development Department and Transportation and Public Works to identify a lead department, implementation timeline, first-year funding options, and next steps for the LGBTQ Entertainment District and Micro-PID. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: For any priority that cannot be fully funded in FY2026-27, the Commission recommends that Council support a practical first-year investment or provide formal direction to the City Manager identifying the responsible department, …
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20260812-002: FY 2026-27 LGBTQ+ Budget Priorities WHEREAS, the LGBTQ Quality of Life Commission has previously adopted recommendations addressing housing stability, public health, community safety, legal assistance, and LGBTQ+ cultural infrastructure; and WHEREAS, the Commission’s Budget Working Group reviewed the City Manager’s proposed FY2026-27 budget, departmental responses, and the status of previously submitted Commission recommendations; and WHEREAS, investments in housing stabilization, disease prevention, emergency preparedness, and early access to services can prevent harm, save lives, and reduce more costly interventions later; and WHEREAS, several Commission priorities remain unfunded, partially funded, or without a clearly responsible department, implementation timeline, or path toward completion; and WHEREAS, the Commission has identified six priorities for immediate Council consideration during the FY2026-27 budget process; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: The Commission recommends that the Austin City Council: 1. Housing Stabilization and Homelessness Assistance: Maintain and increase funding for housing stabilization, rental assistance, homelessness prevention, and emergency housing programs, while ensuring that LGBTQ+ residents-particularly transgender and gender- diverse residents-can access services safely and equitably. 2. Legal Navigation and Community Safety Coordination: Fund a dedicated Equity Office resource to help LGBTQIA2S+ residents navigate legal concerns, safety incidents, referrals, and available City and community services. 3. APD LGBTQ+ Community Liaison Program: Dedicate approximately $40,000 from the proposed APD budget to support the LGBTQ+ Community Liaison Program through . specialized training, outreach, community engagement, performance measures, backup coverage, and long-term continuity, with the goal of establishing a sustainable full-time role. 4. MPox, HIV/STI, and Vaccination Programs: Fully fund Austin Public Health’s recommended service levels for MPox vaccination and HIV/STI prevention, testing, treatment navigation, outreach, and community-provider partnerships, and ensure these essential services are not reduced. 5. Safe and Proud Entertainment Corridor: Fund Stop the Bleed training, CPR and AED access, venue coordination, and emergency preparedness along Bettie Naylor and West Fourth Street, excluding the previously proposed alarm component, and assign clear departmental responsibility for implementation. 6. LGBTQ Entertainment District and Micro-PID: Direct the Economic Development Department and Transportation and Public Works to identify a lead department, implementation timeline, first-year funding options, and next steps for the LGBTQ Entertainment District and Micro-PID. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: For any priority that cannot be fully funded in FY2026-27, the Commission recommends that Council support a practical first-year investment or …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION MONDAY, JULY 20, 2026 AT 6:30 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W 2ND ST. AUSTIN, TEXAS 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, contact Ryan Sperling at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS : Commissioner Appointment Commissioner Kitty McLeod, Vice Chair (she/they) District 1 Mariana Krueger (she/her) Appointment District 9 KC Shepherd Coyne, Chair (they/he) District 2 Devan Daniel (he/him) District 10 Steven Rivas (he/him) District 3 Rocío Fierro-Pérez (she/her/ella) Mayor Brigitte Bandit (they/she) District 4 Morgan Davis (he/him) Jerry Joe Benson, Secretary (he/him) District 5 Randy Pituk (he/him) Asher Knutson (he/him) District 6 Marlon Johnson (he/him) J. Scott Neal (he/him) District 7 Anna Nguyen (she/her) Garry Brown District 8 Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 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. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on June 15, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding Austin Police Department’s (APD) communication and engagement with LGBTQ+ communities; gaps and challenges; status of the Community Liaison Officer program; and APD policies, training, and initiatives related to the LGBTQ+ community. Briefing by Chief Lisa Davis, APD. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. Presentation to introduce Queer MMA ATX and provide information on an upcoming Queer Fight Night in Spring 2027. Presentation by Luis Villareal and Marléne M. Feliz Nina, Queer MMA ATX. Presentation regarding OutYouth’s programming, history, challenges, and successes. Presentation by Jaryn Holbrook Janeway, Executive Director, OutYouth. Recognition of Commissioner Rivas’ work on Mayor’s Task Force on Public Spaces and discussion of community celebrations in June. Discussion to collect feedback on what to include in the 2025 Annual Report. Discussion regarding priorities for the August meeting and a potential community social event before. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 6. 7. 5. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. Update from the LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center Working Group regarding their first …
LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION MINUTES REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, JUNE 15, 2026 The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a special called meeting on Monday, June 15, 2026 at 6:30 PM at Austin City Hall, 301 W 2nd St., Austin, Texas 78701, Boards & Commissions Room 1101. Commissioners in attendance in person: KC Coyne (Chair) Kitty McLeod (Vice Chair) Garry Brown Devan Daniel Marlon Johnson J. Scott Neal Randy Pituk Steven Rivas Commissioners in attendance remotely: Morgan Davis Rocío Fierro-Pérez Mariana Krueger Anna Nguyen Chair Coyne called the meeting to order at 6:32 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on May 20, 2026. The minutes were approved as amended at the June 15, 2026 meeting on Vice Chair McLeod’s motion, Commissioner Brown’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioner Fierro-Pérez was o(cid:431) the dais. Secretary Benson and Commissioners Bandit and Knutson were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. Presentation regarding the impact of SB12 on the Austin Independent School District (AISD). Presentation by Edna Butts, Intergovernmental Relations Director, AISD. Withdrawn without objection. Presentation providing an update on SB12. Presentation by Ash Hall, Policy & Advocacy Strategist on LGBTQIA+ Rights, ACLU of Texas. The presentation was made by Ash Hall, Policy & Advocacy Strategist on LGBTQIA+ Rights, ACLU of Texas. Presentation by the SAFE Alliance regarding their closing and at-risk programs. Presentation by Dani Fletcher, Director of Communications and Marketing, SAFE Austin. The presentation was made by Dani Fletcher, Director of Communications and Marketing, SAFE Austin. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. 6. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding proclamation dates for the 2026 calendar year. The recommendation to Council regarding proclamation dates for the 2026 calendar year was approved on Commissioner Brown’s motion, Chair Coyne’s second on a 12- 0 vote. Secretary Benson and Commissioners Bandit and Knutson were absent. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding SAFE Alliance – Eloise House funding. Item 6 was taken up after Item 4 without objection. The recommendation was approved as amended to read as follows on Chair Coyne’s motion, Commissioner Neal’s second on a 12-0 vote. Recommendation: The LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends that the Austin City Council and the Mayor’s O(cid:431)ice, in partnership with Travis County and other funding partners, identify and allocate su(cid:431)icient emergency and bridge funding to ensure the uninterrupted …
QUEER MMA AUSTIN PRESENTS QUEER FIGHT NIGHT ATX Spring 2027 • A community martial arts event for LGBTQIA+ Austin Who we are Founded in August of 2025, Queer MMA is a free, volunteer-run monthly martial arts program for Austin's LGBTQ+ community, hosted at Black Widow MMA — one of the state's most recognized LGBTQ-friendly gyms. Open to everyone All skill levels welcome. Participants range from beginner to advanced. Real instruction Rotating monthly technique focus - Judo, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, & Muay Thai More than a class Partnerships with community orgs like Trans Education Network of Texas, allgo, Kind Clinic, Queer Black Women Alliance, and Autonomy Austin who provides resources on trans healthcare access in Texas. FREE every month, no cost barrier 100% volunteer-run coaching 321 unique registrations since Aug 2025 10-40 participants per session August 2025 October 2025 Why this matters Safety & self-defense Traditional martial arts spaces are often unwelcoming — or unsafe — for queer and trans people. Dedicated spaces remove that barrier at a time when our community faces rising hostility. Physical, mental, & emotional health Martial arts builds fitness, confidence, and body autonomy. For trans participants especially, feeling at home in your own body is powerful and rare. Community connection Training together builds deep trust. Queer MMA has become a monthly gathering point. Participants travel as far as Round Rock, San Antonio, College Station, and the Dominican Republic to attend our classes — a fight night scales that connection nationwide. Human Impact From 12 testimonials submitted by Queer MMA participants in July 2026 Respondents were 67% BIPOC and 58% low-income “ As a transgender woman I did not feel like I could ever go train at a gym without the sport being taken away from me because of prejudice. Spaces and opportunities like this are very important to me and other queer people alike — especially here in Texas. – Alessia “ I could just show up, train, and have fun without worrying about being judged for being gay. I could focus on learning martial arts instead of wondering if I needed to hide parts of myself or whether someone would treat me differently because of who I am. That feeling of safety is something I don't take for granted. - Alex “ “This group has made me feel so much safer and less alone in a world that is getting very scary for queer people. …
36 Years of Life-Saving Care, Connection, and Community Presented By JARYN HOLBROOK JANEWAY, MBA, SHRM-SCP Executive Director | They/Them Who We Are & Why We Exist 2 Why We Exist: The Reality for LGBTQ+ Youth ● 39% of LGBTQ+ young people seriously considered suicide in the past year—including 46% of transgender and nonbinary youth. ● 50% of LGBTQ+ youth who wanted mental health care in the past year were unable to access it. ● 49% of LGBTQ+ youth ages 13–17 experienced bullying in the past year. Source: The Trevor Project National Survey 3 Our 36-Year Journey (1990 – 2026) ● 1990: Two UT Social Work graduate students begin hosting support groups in Austin living rooms. ● 1995: Incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit to protect and serve local youth. ● 1998: We purchase and move into our historic 1,900-square-foot house in North Central Austin—which we still call home today. ● 2001: Free mental health care services added to our offerings. ● 2015: The Youth Development Model, the first of its kind, is created in partnership with the University of Texas at Austin. ● Today: 36 years of uninterrupted service, impacting over 40,000 lives across Central Texas. 4 The Youth Development Model 5 Core Youth Programs (Ages 9–23) ● The Drop-In Community Center: Tailored, age-separated environments designed to foster belonging, safety, and friendship. ○ Pre-Teen Program (Ages 9–12) | Focus: Exploration ○ Teen Program (Ages 13–17) | Focus: Discovery ○ Young Adult Program (Ages 18–23) | Focus: Awareness ● Everyday Resources: Secure virtual drop-in centers via Discord 6 Our Developmental Framework ● The 6 Pillars of Youth Excellence: Our programs purposefully build skills across six core developmental domains. ○ 1. Social Development: Interpersonal relationships and life skills. ○ 2. Self-Discovery: Fostering high self-esteem and authentic identity. ○ 3. Community Connections: Civic involvement and mutual advocacy. ○ 4. Health & Wellness: Self-care, safety, and physical/mental well-being. ○ 5. Leadership: Peer collaboration and program advisory roles. ○ 6. Future Planning: Transitioning to higher education, employment, and stable adulthood. 7 Youth Initiatives, Cultural Spaces, & Media Arts ● The Jerry Strickland Jr. Memorial Library: The largest privately managed collection of queer literature in Texas, completely cataloged and free for public checkout. ● The Media Arts Program: Empowers youth to master creative technology, digital storytelling, and content creation in an affirming environment. ● David Bohnett CyberCenter & Sound Studio: Providing technology equity, digital literacy, and creative …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION MONDAY, JUNE 15, 2026 AT 6:30 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W 2ND ST. AUSTIN, TEXAS 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, contact Ryan Sperling at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Commissioner Appointment Commissioner Kitty McLeod, Vice Chair (she/they) District 1 Mariana Krueger (she/her) Appointment District 9 KC Shepherd Coyne, Chair (they/he) District 2 Devan Daniel (he/him) District 10 Steven Rivas (he/him) District 3 Rocío Fierro-Pérez (she/her/ella) Mayor Brigitte Bandit (they/she) District 4 Morgan Davis (he/him) Jerry Joe Benson, Secretary (he/him) District 5 Randy Pituk (he/him) Asher Knutson (he/him) District 6 Marlon Johnson (he/him) J. Scott Neal (he/him) District 7 Anna Nguyen (she/her) Garry Brown District 8 Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 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. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on May 20, 2026. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. Presentation regarding the impact of SB12 on the Austin Independent School District (AISD). Presentation by Edna Butts, Intergovernmental Relations Director, AISD. Presentation providing an update on SB12. Presentation by Ash Hall, Policy & Advocacy Strategist on LGBTQIA+ Rights, ACLU of Texas. Presentation by the SAFE Alliance regarding their closing and at-risk programs. Presentation by Dani Fletcher, Director of Communications and Marketing, SAFE Austin. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. 6. 7. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding proclamation dates for the 2026 calendar year. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding SAFE Alliance – Eloise House funding. Approve the formation of a working group to create a recommendation on next steps for an LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 8. 9. 10. Update from the Health Working Group on their first meeting, areas of focus, timeline, and goals. Update from the Budget Follow-Up Working Group regarding their first meeting, areas of focus, timeline, and goals. Update from the Community …
LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, MAY 18, 2026 MINUTES The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a special called meeting on Monday, May 18, 2026 at 6:30 PM at Austin City Hall, 301 W 2nd St., Austin, Texas 78701, Boards & Commissions Room 1101. Commissioners in attendance in person: KC Coyne (Chair) Jerry Joe Benson (Secretary) Garry Brown Marlon Johnson Randy Pituk J. Scott Neal Anna Nguyen Steve Rivas Commissioners in attendance remotely: Brigitte Bandit Devan Daniel Morgan Davis Rocio Fierro-Perez Mariana Krueger Chair Coyne called the meeting to order at 6:31 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Ry Vazquez – SAFE + Eloise House Courtney Szigetvari – SAFE + Eloise House Shelby Evans – SAFE + Eloise House Valerie Dabil - SAFE APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on April 20, 2026. The minutes of the April 20, 2026 meeting were approved on Commissioner Daniel’s motion, Commissioner Brown’s second on a 12-0 vote. Commissioner Bandit abstained. Vice Chair McLeod and Commissioner Knutson were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Briefing regarding Austin Fire Department’s training and resources for LGBTQIA+ residents, internal support for equity, and challenges and priorities currently being faced. Presentation by Tom Vocke, Chief of Sta(cid:431), Austin Fire Department. The briefing was provided by Chief of Sta(cid:431) Tom Vocke and Lt. Xochitl Chafino, Austin Fire Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Update regarding the progress on the LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center Feasibility Study. Update by Mark Gilbert, Director, Hayat Brown. The presentation was made by Mark Gilbert, Director, Hayat Brown. Update regarding the progress of the Mayor’s Public Spaces Task Force. Update by Commissioner Rivas. Update by Commissioner Rivas. Discussion to provide an update finalizing and installing a historical marker on the intersection of 4th St. and Colorado St. Update by Commissioner Brown. Update by Commissioner Brown. The meeting went into recess without objection at 8:15 p.m. The meeting was called back to order at 8:24 p.m. Discussion regarding the development of the 2026 General Obligation Bond Program. Discussion was held. Discussion to review a new view-only folder for commission resources, community engagement, and what the commission has accomplished over the last year and goals for the next year for inclusion in the annual internal review. Discussion was held. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 8. 9. Approve the formation of a Working Group to …
FACT SHEET KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: S.B. 12 (DRAG BAN) Current status: Scheduled to take effect March 18, 2026. In September 2023, a federal court entered a final order declaring S.B. 12 to be unconstitutional under five independent grounds and issued a permanent injunction blocking the Texas attorney general and other government defendants from enforcing it. On November 6, 2025, a Fifth Circuit panel reversed some aspects of that decision and stated that the case should be sent back to the district court for more analysis on overbreadth in light of an intervening decision from the U.S. Supreme Court. After the plaintiffs filed a motion for panel rehearing, the Fifth Circuit issued a new opinion on February 25, 2026 that vacates the injunction, which will allow the law to take effect for the first time. Instead of deciding whether S.B. 12 is constitutional, the Fifth Circuit is sending the case back to the district court for further analysis. WHAT IS S.B. 12? S.B. 12 is a law that was passed during the 2023 Texas legislative session. Governor Abbott and Texas lawmakers stated that it was intended to ban drag shows in public, but it is not limited to drag and targets all performances that are “sexually oriented.” S.B. 12 defines a show that is “sexually oriented” as a “visual performance that features a performer who is (1) nude or (2) engages in sexual conduct” and that “appeals to the prurient interest in sex.” This applies on most public property and in front of minors (see below). WHAT TYPES OF PERFORMANCES DOES THE LAW PROHIBIT? “Nude” “Nude” is defined as “entirely unclothed” or “clothed in a manner that leaves uncovered . . . any portion of the breasts below the top of the areola . . . or any portion of the genitals or buttocks.” “Sexual conduct” includes: “Sexual conduct” “The exhibition or representation, actual or simulated, of sexual acts;” “The exhibition or representation, actual or simulated, of male or female genitals in a lewd state;” “The exhibition of a device and marked as useful primarily for the sexual stimulation of male or female genitals;” “Actual contact or simulated contact occurring between one person and the buttocks, breast, or any part of the genitals of another person;” or “The exhibition of sexual gesticulations using accessories or prosthetics that exaggerate male or female sexual characteristics.” “Prurient interest in sex” “Prurient interest in sex” …
DRAFT RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Recommended LGBTQ+ Observances for Potential City Council Proclamations (2026) Date: June 15, 2026 Recommendation: The LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends consideration of the following observances for City Council proclamations moving forward. These observances recognize important milestones in LGBTQIA+ history, promote awareness of ongoing equity and public health issues, celebrate the diversity of Austin’s LGBTQIA+ communities, and a(cid:431)irm the City's commitment to inclusion and belonging. Observance Date Priority Rationale International Holocaust Remembrance Day January 27 Medium Barbara Jordan's Birthday February 21 High Transgender Day of Visibility March 31 High Lesbian Visibility Day April 26 Medium Honors the victims of the Holocaust, including LGBTQ+ people persecuted by the Nazi regime, and promotes remembrance and education. Celebrates the legacy of Barbara Jordan, a trailblazing Texan leader whose life and service continue to inspire generations. Celebrates transgender and nonbinary people while recognizing their contributions and lived experiences. Promotes visibility and recognition of lesbian communities and their contributions to society. International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia & Biphobia May 17 High Internationally recognized day addressing discrimination, stigma, and violence a(cid:431)ecting LGBTQIA+ people. Harvey Milk Day May 22 Medium Honors a pioneering LGBTQ+ civil rights leader and public servant. Observance Date Priority Rationale LGBTQ Families Day / Pride Month Kicko(cid:431) June 1 High Celebrates LGBTQ+ families and marks the beginning of Pride Month. Pulse Remembrance Day June 12 High Stonewall Day June 28 High LGBTQ History Month October High Honors the victims and survivors of the Pulse nightclub tragedy and rea(cid:431)irms a commitment to combating hate and violence. Recognizes the Stonewall Uprising and the modern LGBTQ+ civil rights movement. Recognizes the history, achievements, and contributions of LGBTQIA+ people. National Coming Out Day October 11 High Encourages acceptance, visibility, and support for LGBTQIA+ people. Transgender Day of Remembrance November 20 High Honors transgender people lost to anti- transgender violence and rea(cid:431)irms the City's commitment to safety, dignity, and equality. World AIDS Day December 1 High Recognized globally to honor those a(cid:431)ected by HIV/AIDS and promote prevention, treatment, and care. Additional Observances for Recognition Through Other Means The Commission also encourages recognition of the following observances through social media, community events, educational campaigns, Commission resolutions, or other City communications. Observance International Asexuality Day Date April 6 Observance Date National Deaf LGBTQ Awareness Week April (2nd or 3rd week) International Family Equality Day May 3 National Asian & …
DRAFT RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Continuity of Survivor Services and Community-Based Care Facilities Date: June 15, 2026 Recommendation: The LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends that the Austin City Council and the Mayor’s O(cid:431)ice, in partnership with Travis County and other funding partners, identify and allocate su(cid:431)icient emergency and bridge funding to ensure the uninterrupted continuation of survivor-centered services currently provided through Eloise House and other existing community-based facilities serving survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, child abuse, and human tra(cid:431)icking. The Commission further recommends that any funding strategy prioritize: • Continued access to forensic examinations in community-based, non-hospital settings • Trauma-informed advocacy and crisis response services • Emergency shelter and housing support • Legal and case management services • Culturally competent and a(cid:431)irming care for LGBTQIA+ survivors and other historically marginalized communities • Preservation of service capacity at existing facilities where survivors currently receive care The Commission also recommends that the City develop a sustainable, multi-year funding strategy that protects continuity of care, minimizes service disruptions, and ensures that survivors can continue accessing trusted, community-based support systems during any operational or administrative transitions. Description of Recommendation to Council: Austin's network of survivor services provides critical support to thousands of individuals each year. These services include forensic examinations, crisis intervention, advocacy, shelter, counseling, legal support, and other wraparound resources that help survivors achieve safety and stability. Eloise House serves as a unique community-based location where survivors can access forensic examinations and advocacy services outside of a hospital setting. For many survivors, particularly LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants, communities of color, and people who have experienced discrimination within traditional institutions, community-based care settings can o(cid:431)er a more accessible and trusted environment for seeking help. The Commission's concern is focused on ensuring that critical services remain available, culturally responsive, and accessible regardless of future administrative or funding arrangements. Any transition in service delivery should be carefully planned to avoid interruptions in care, loss of capacity, loss of critical facilities, or barriers to access for vulnerable populations. Funding should be directed toward maintaining service continuity, retaining trained personnel where possible, preserving community-based service locations, and ensuring that survivors continue to receive coordinated support throughout their healing process. Rationale: LGBTQIA+ survivors often face unique barriers when seeking support following experiences of violence, including fear of discrimination, concerns about confidentiality, prior negative experiences with institutions, and challenges finding a(cid:431)irming care providers. …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Recommendation Number 20260615-005: LGBTQ+ Observances for Potential City Council Proclamations (2026) Recommendation: The LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends consideration of the following observances for City Council proclamations moving forward. These observances recognize important milestones in LGBTQIA+ history, promote awareness of ongoing equity and public health issues, celebrate the diversity of Austin’s LGBTQIA+ communities, and affirm the City's commitment to inclusion and belonging. Description of Recommendation to Council: Observance Date Priority Rationale International Holocaust Remembrance Day January 27 Medium Barbara Jordan's Birthday February 21 High Transgender Day of Visibility March 31 High Lesbian Visibility Day April 26 Medium Honors the victims of the Holocaust, including LGBTQ+ people persecuted by the Nazi regime, and promotes remembrance and education. Celebrates the legacy of Barbara Jordan, a trailblazing Texan leader whose life and service continue to inspire generations. Celebrates transgender and nonbinary people while recognizing their contributions and lived experiences. Promotes visibility and recognition of lesbian communities and their contributions to society. Observance Date Priority Rationale International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia & Biphobia May 17 High Internationally recognized day addressing discrimination, stigma, and violence affecting LGBTQIA+ people. Harvey Milk Day May 22 Medium Honors a pioneering LGBTQ+ civil rights leader and public servant. LGBTQ Families Day / Pride Month Kickoff June 1 High Celebrates LGBTQ+ families and marks the beginning of Pride Month. Pulse Remembrance Day June 12 High Stonewall Day June 28 High LGBTQ History Month October High Honors the victims and survivors of the Pulse nightclub tragedy and reaffirms a commitment to combating hate and violence. Recognizes the Stonewall Uprising and the modern LGBTQ+ civil rights movement. Recognizes the history, achievements, and contributions of LGBTQIA+ people. National Coming Out Day October 11 High Encourages acceptance, visibility, and support for LGBTQIA+ people. Transgender Day of Remembrance November 20 High Honors transgender people lost to anti- transgender violence and reaffirms the City's commitment to safety, dignity, and equality. World AIDS Day December 1 High Recognized globally to honor those affected by HIV/AIDS and promote prevention, treatment, and care. Additional Observances for Recognition Through Other Means The Commission also encourages recognition of the following observances through social media, community events, educational campaigns, Commission resolutions, or other City communications. Observance International Asexuality Day Date April 6 National Deaf LGBTQ Awareness Week April (2nd or 3rd week) International Family Equality Day May 3 National Asian & …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20260615-006: Continuity of Survivor Services and Community-Based Care Facilities Date: June 15, 2026 Recommendation: The LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends that the Austin City Council and the Mayor’s Office, in partnership with Travis County and other funding partners, identify and allocate sufficient emergency and bridge funding to ensure the uninterrupted continuation of survivor-centered services currently provided through Eloise House and other existing community-based facilities serving survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, child abuse, and human trafficking. The Commission further recommends that any funding strategy prioritize: • Continued access to forensic examinations in community-based, non-hospital settings in additional to Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) training for nurses • Trauma-informed advocacy and crisis response services • Emergency shelter and housing support • Legal and case management services • Culturally competent and affirming care for LGBTQIA+ survivors and other historically marginalized communities • Preservation of service capacity at existing facilities where survivors currently receive care The Commission also recommends that the City develop a sustainable, long-term funding strategy that protects continuity of care, minimizes service disruptions, and ensures that survivors can continue accessing trusted, community-based support systems during any operational or administrative transitions. Description of Recommendation to Council: Austin's network of survivor services provides critical support to thousands of individuals each year. These services include forensic examinations, crisis intervention, advocacy, shelter, counseling, legal support, and other wraparound resources that help survivors achieve safety and stability. Eloise House serves as a unique community-based location where survivors can access forensic examinations and advocacy services outside of a hospital setting. For many survivors, particularly LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants, communities of color, people with disabilities, and people who have experienced discrimination within traditional institutions, community-based care settings can offer a more accessible and trusted environment for seeking help. The Commission's concern is focused on ensuring that critical services remain available, culturally responsive, and accessible regardless of future administrative or funding arrangements. Any transition in service delivery should be carefully planned to avoid interruptions in care, loss of capacity, loss of critical facilities, or barriers to access for vulnerable populations. Funding should be directed toward maintaining service continuity, retaining trained personnel where possible, preserving community-based service locations, and ensuring that survivors continue to receive coordinated support throughout their healing process. Rationale: LGBTQIA+ survivors often face unique barriers when seeking support following experiences of violence, including fear …
LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION MINUTES REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, JUNE 15, 2026 The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a special called meeting on Monday, June 15, 2026 at 6:30 PM at Austin City Hall, 301 W 2nd St., Austin, Texas 78701, Boards & Commissions Room 1101. Commissioners in attendance in person: KC Coyne (Chair) Kitty McLeod (Vice Chair) Garry Brown Devan Daniel Marlon Johnson J. Scott Neal Randy Pituk Steven Rivas Commissioners in attendance remotely: Morgan Davis Rocío Fierro-Pérez Mariana Krueger Anna Nguyen Chair Coyne called the meeting to order at 6:32 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on May 20, 2026. The minutes were approved as amended at the June 15, 2026 meeting on Vice Chair McLeod’s motion, Commissioner Brown’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioner Fierro-Pérez was o(cid:431) the dais. Secretary Benson and Commissioners Bandit and Knutson were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. Presentation regarding the impact of SB12 on the Austin Independent School District (AISD). Presentation by Edna Butts, Intergovernmental Relations Director, AISD. Withdrawn without objection. Presentation providing an update on SB12. Presentation by Ash Hall, Policy & Advocacy Strategist on LGBTQIA+ Rights, ACLU of Texas. The presentation was made by Ash Hall, Policy & Advocacy Strategist on LGBTQIA+ Rights, ACLU of Texas. Presentation by the SAFE Alliance regarding their closing and at-risk programs. Presentation by Dani Fletcher, Director of Communications and Marketing, SAFE Austin. The presentation was made by Dani Fletcher, Director of Communications and Marketing, SAFE Austin. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. 6. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding proclamation dates for the 2026 calendar year. The recommendation to Council regarding proclamation dates for the 2026 calendar year was approved on Commissioner Brown’s motion, Chair Coyne’s second on a 12- 0 vote. Secretary Benson and Commissioners Bandit and Knutson were absent. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding SAFE Alliance – Eloise House funding. Item 6 was taken up after Item 4 without objection. The recommendation was approved as amended to read as follows on Chair Coyne’s motion, Commissioner Neal’s second on a 12-0 vote. Recommendation: The LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Advisory Commission recommends that the Austin City Council and the Mayor’s O(cid:431)ice, in partnership with Travis County and other funding partners, identify and allocate su(cid:431)icient emergency and bridge funding to ensure the uninterrupted …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION MONDAY, MAY 18, 2026 AT 6:30 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W 2ND ST. AUSTIN, TEXAS 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, contact Ryan Sperling at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS : Commissioner Appointment Commissioner Kitty McLeod, Vice Chair (she/they) District 1 Mariana Krueger (she/her) Appointment District 9 KC Shepherd Coyne, Chair (they/he) District 2 Devan Daniel (he/him) District 10 Steven Rivas (he/him) District 3 Rocío Fierro-Pérez (she/her/ella) Mayor Brigitte Bandit (they/she) District 4 Morgan Davis (he/him) Jerry Joe Benson, Secretary (he/him) District 5 Randy Pituk (he/him) Asher Knutson (he/him) District 6 Marlon Johnson (he/him) J. Scott Neal (he/him) District 7 Anna Nguyen (she/her) Garry Brown District 8 Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 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. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on April 20, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Briefing regarding Austin Fire Department’s training and resources for LGBTQIA+ residents, internal support for equity, and challenges and priorities currently being faced. Presentation by Tom Vocke, Chief of Staff, Austin Fire Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Update regarding the progress on the LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center Feasibility Study. Update by Mark Gilbert, Director, Hayat Brown. Update regarding the progress of the Mayor’s Public Spaces Task Force. Update by Commissioner Rivas. Discussion to provide an update finalizing and installing a historical marker on the intersection of 4th St. and Colorado St. Update by Commissioner Brown. Discussion regarding the development of the 2026 General Obligation Bond Program. Discussion to review a new view-only folder for commission resources, community engagement, and what the commission has accomplished over the last year and goals for the next year for inclusion in the annual internal review. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 8. 9. 10. Approve the formation of a Working Group to communicate …
LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20, 2026 The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, April 20, 2026 at 6:30 PM at Austin City Hall, 301 W 2nd St., Austin, Texas 78701, Boards & Commissions Room 1101. Commissioners in attendance in person: KC Coyne (Chair) Kitty McLeod (Vice Chair) Jerry Joe Benson (Secretary) Devan Daniel Asher Knutson J. Scott Neal Anna Nguyen Randy Pituk Steven Rivas Commissioners in attendance remotely: Garry Brown Morgan Davis Mariana Krueger Rocio Fierro-Pérez Chair Coyne called the meeting to order at 6:32 P.M. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on March 9, 2026. The minutes of the March 9, 2026 meeting were approved on Secretary Benson’s motion, Vice Chair McLeod’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioner Nguyen abstained. Commissioner Brown was o(cid:431) the dais. Commissioners Bandit and Johnson were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. Sta(cid:431) briefing regarding Austin Emergency Medical Services’ (EMS) trainings for first responders and community members around LGBTQ+ issues, as well as a general update on EMS activities and developments. Briefing by Wesley Hopkins, Chief of Sta(cid:431), Austin- Travis County EMS. Briefing provided by Wesley Hopkins, Chief of Sta(cid:431), Austin-Travis County EMS. Sta(cid:431) briefing regarding an update on the Levers of Economic Mobility Index. Presentation by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr., and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity & Inclusion. The presentation was made by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr., and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity & Inclusion. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. 5. 6. Presentation regarding Long Covid awareness and its impact on the LGBTQIA+ community. Presentation by Katie Drackert, Clear the Air ATX. The presentation was made by Katie Drackert, Clear the Air ATX. Discussion regarding ways to prioritize intergenerational dialogue and connections among the LGBTQIA+ community. The meeting went into recess at 8:36 p.m. The meeting was called back into order at 8:45 p.m. Discussion was held. Presentation by Queerbomb 2026 organizers and discussion regarding planning, logistics, permitting, and funding for Queerbomb 2026. Presentation by Roadkill, Queerbomb 2026. Item 6 was taken up before Item 5 without objection. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 7. 8. Update from the Community Safety Working Group regarding engagement with EMS, Austin Fire Department, and law enforcement, along with key priorities and next steps. Update …
LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center Feasibility Study May 2026 Commission Update: Preliminary Findings Executive Summary Background DRAFT- Pending Task Force Review and Edits 1 For nearly a decade, community advocates and the LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Commission have worked to make an LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center a reality in Austin—one of the largest cities in the United States without a dedicated space of this kind. In August 2024, Austin City Council passed Resolution 20240814-022 directing the City Manager to launch a feasibility study to identify potential sites, funding strategies, and a development timeline for the center. To help shape this work, the LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Commission recommended the creation of a 12-member Task Force to provide guidance, community input, and strategic direction throughout the study process. As part of the FY2025 budget process, the City of Austin appropriated $180,000 to support the feasibility study and subsequently selected the Hayat Brown Team to lead this effort in partnership with the LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center Task Force. Executive Summary Process DRAFT- Pending Task Force Review and Edits 2 The Hayat Brown Team embarked on a 12-month, Task Force-driven effort to refine facility needs and identify a path to project feasibility. Together, they reviewed benchmark facilities and case studies to understand commonalities, trends, and key features of similar cultural centers. They used these insights to inform a recommended space program, site evaluation criteria, and to define ownership, acquisition, and funding options. Background Data Gathering and Benchmarking Needs Assessment and Space Programming Site Evaluation Criteria Site Evaluations Ownership and Management Structures Development and Acquisition Structures Funding Options Recommendations Executive Summary Space Program DRAFT- Pending Task Force Review and Edits 3 The Task Force recommended a space program for the future Center consisting of a core program and subordinate program components separated into priority B, C, and D spaces. The Core Program highlights the essential features and functions of the future Cultural Center. It focuses on large, flexible spaces including a multi-purpose room and lobby, with administrative and building support services, requiring a minimum of approximately 4,000-7,500 net usable square feet. Executive Summary Space Program DRAFT- Pending Task Force Review and Edits 4 The B, C, and D priority spaces include other desirable spaces to be included as space and budgets permit. Priority B Spaces Highly desirable Priority C&D Spaces Nice to have, lower priority • Drop-in/lounge space • Additional meeting rooms • Administrative offices • Kitchen/café • …
LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, MAY 18, 2026 MINUTES The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a special called meeting on Monday, May 18, 2026 at 6:30 PM at Austin City Hall, 301 W 2nd St., Austin, Texas 78701, Boards & Commissions Room 1101. Commissioners in attendance in person: KC Coyne (Chair) Jerry Joe Benson (Secretary) Garry Brown Marlon Johnson Randy Pituk J. Scott Neal Anna Nguyen Steve Rivas Commissioners in attendance remotely: Brigitte Bandit Devan Daniel Morgan Davis Rocio Fierro-Perez Mariana Krueger Chair Coyne called the meeting to order at 6:31 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Ry Vazquez – SAFE + Eloise House Courtney Szigetvari – SAFE + Eloise House Shelby Evans – SAFE + Eloise House Valerie Dabil - SAFE APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on April 20, 2026. The minutes of the April 20, 2026 meeting were approved on Commissioner Daniel’s motion, Commissioner Brown’s second on a 12-0 vote. Commissioner Bandit abstained. Vice Chair McLeod and Commissioner Knutson were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Briefing regarding Austin Fire Department’s training and resources for LGBTQIA+ residents, internal support for equity, and challenges and priorities currently being faced. Presentation by Tom Vocke, Chief of Sta(cid:431), Austin Fire Department. The briefing was provided by Chief of Sta(cid:431) Tom Vocke and Lt. Xochitl Chafino, Austin Fire Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Update regarding the progress on the LGBTQIA+ Cultural Center Feasibility Study. Update by Mark Gilbert, Director, Hayat Brown. The presentation was made by Mark Gilbert, Director, Hayat Brown. Update regarding the progress of the Mayor’s Public Spaces Task Force. Update by Commissioner Rivas. Update by Commissioner Rivas. Discussion to provide an update finalizing and installing a historical marker on the intersection of 4th St. and Colorado St. Update by Commissioner Brown. Update by Commissioner Brown. The meeting went into recess without objection at 8:15 p.m. The meeting was called back to order at 8:24 p.m. Discussion regarding the development of the 2026 General Obligation Bond Program. Discussion was held. Discussion to review a new view-only folder for commission resources, community engagement, and what the commission has accomplished over the last year and goals for the next year for inclusion in the annual internal review. Discussion was held. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 8. 9. Approve the formation of a Working Group to …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION MONDAY, APRIL 20TH, AT 6:30 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W 2ND ST. AUSTIN, TEXAS 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, contact Ryan Sperling at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS : Commissioner Appointment Commissioner Kitty McLeod, Vice Chair (she/they) District 1 Mariana Krueger (she/her) KC Shepherd Coyne, Chair (they/he) District 2 Devan Daniel Appointment District 9 District 10 Steven Rivas (he/him) District 3 Rocío Fierro-Pérez (she/her/ella) Mayor Brigitte Bandit (they/she) District 4 Morgan Davis (he/him) Jerry Joe Benson, Secretary (he/him) District 5 Randy Pituk (he/him) Asher Knutson (he/him) District 6 Marlon Johnson (he/him) J. Scott Neal (he/him) District 7 Anna Nguyen (she/her) Garry Brown District 8 Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 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. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on March 9, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. Staff briefing regarding Austin Emergency Medical Services’ (EMS) trainings for first responders and community members around LGBTQ+ issues, as well as a general update on EMS activities and developments. Briefing by Wesley Hopkins, Chief of Staff, Austin-Travis County EMS. Staff briefing regarding an update on the Levers of Economic Mobility Index. Presentation by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr., and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity & Inclusion. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. 5. 6. Presentation regarding Long Covid awareness and its impact on the LGBTQIA+ community. Presentation by Katie Drackert, Clear the Air ATX, and Dr. Michael Brode, UT Post Covid Clinic. Discussion regarding ways connections among the LGBTQIA+ community. Presentation and discussion regarding planning, logistics, permitting, and funding for Queerbomb 2026. Presentation by Roadkill (x) intergenerational dialogue and to prioritize WORKING GROUP UPDATES 7. 8. Update from the Community Safety Working Group regarding engagement with EMS, Austin Fire Department, and law enforcement, along with key priorities and next …
LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION MINUTES REGULAR MEETING Wednesday, March 9, 2026 The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, March 9, 2026 at 6:30 PM at the Permitting and Development Center, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr., Austin, TX, Room #1406 Commissioners in attendance in person: KC Coyne (Chair) Jerry Joe Benson (Secretary) Garry Brown Asher Knutson Randy Pituk Steven Rivas Commissioners in attendance remotely: Kitty McLeod (Vice Chair) Morgan Davis Rocio Fierro-Perez Chair Coyne called the meeting to order at 6:40 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Tamara Hoover – Cheer up Charlies APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting of February 9, 2026. The February 9, 2026 minutes were approved on Secretary Benson’s motion, Commissioner Brown’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Bandit, Johnson, Krueger, and Neal were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Presentation regarding the PHLIV Stigma Index and an HIV Resource Guide. Presentation by Michelle Osorio, Public Health Program Coordinator, Austin Public Health and Rick Astray-Caneda III, President, Friends of the David Powell Clinic. The presentation was made by Michelle Osorio, Public Health Program Coordinator, Austin Public Health and Rick Astray-Caneda III, President, Friends of the David Powell Clinic. Presentation by Austin Pride to provide a high-level update and coordination conversation focused on early planning and alignment for 2026 Austin PRIDE. Presentation by Micah Andress, President, Austin PRIDE. The presentation was made by Micah Andress, President, Austin PRIDE. The meeting went into recess without objection at 7:48 p.m. The meeting was called back to order at 8:01 p.m. Discussion regarding a priority list for which organizations to invite to present at commission meetings. Discussion was held. Discussion regarding a view-only folder for commissioner resources. Discussion was held. Discussion regarding potential collaboration with the LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce. Discussion was held. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 7. Report from the FY2026-27 Budget Working Group regarding its proposed budget recommendations. The report was provided by Secretary Benson. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 8. Approve a budget recommendation for LGBTQ legal navigation and community safety coordination. This item was postponed to later in the meeting without objection on Chair Coyne’s motion. Item 8 was taken up after Item 15. The recommendation for LGBTQ legal navigation and community safety coordination was approved with the below amendments on Secretary Benson’s motion, Commissioner Rivas’ second on a 9-0 …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL LGBTQ Quality of Life Commission Recommendation Number: xxxxxx__-___: Bettie Naylor Street Safety Corridor Date of Approval: [Insert Date] ⸻ Recommendation The LGBTQ Quality of Life Commission recommends that the Austin City Council direct the City Manager to immediately establish a Bettie Naylor Street Safety Corridor by permanently restricting general vehicular traffic on West Fourth Street between Colorado Street and Lavaca Street, except for emergency vehicles and permitted commercial deliveries, and to implement coordinated safety mitigation, infrastructure, and venue preplanning measures. Description of Recommendation to Council 1. Austin Incident and Proximity Risk On March 1, 2026, a mass shooting occurred in Austin's West Sixth Street entertainment district, resulting in multiple fatalities and numerous injuries. Public reporting indicates that the suspect drove repeatedly around the block prior to initiating gunfire from a vehicle. The LGBTQIA+ venue The Iron Bear, located at Sixth Street and Lavaca Street, sits approximately four blocks from the incident location. Numerous LGBTQIA+ bars, theaters, bookstores, and community gathering spaces operate along and adjacent to West Fourth Street in close proximity. No permanent vehicle mitigation or corridor restriction measures have been implemented on Bettie Naylor Street following this incident. 2. National Precedent and Foreseeable Risk On January 1, 2025, a vehicle-ramming attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans killed at least 14 people and injured dozens more. Federal authorities investigated the incident as terrorism and national security experts emphasized the vulnerability of dense entertainment corridors to hostile vehicle attacks. More than one year has passed since that incident. The March 1, 2026 Austin shooting further demonstrates vehicle-enabled reconnaissance behavior in a similar nightlife environment. These events reflect established attack patterns involving: ● Firearms and/or knife attacks at entertainment venues; ● Hostile vehicle use in pedestrian corridors; ● Rapid attacker scenarios in nightlife districts. These risks are documented and foreseeable. 3. Bettie Naylor Street Designation Between Congress Avenue and Rio Grande Street, West Fourth Street is designated Bettie Naylor Street, a historic and internationally recognized LGBTQIA+ entertainment and business district. This corridor serves as a cultural, civic, and economic asset for the City of Austin and attracts visitors nationally and internationally. 4. Permanent Vehicle Restriction and Infrastructure The Commission recommends: 1. Permanent restriction of general vehicular traffic on West Fourth Street between Colorado Street and Lavaca Street; 2. Continuous emergency vehicle access; 3. Scheduled, time-windowed commercial deliveries administered by Austin Transportation and Public Works; 4. Installation of …
Economic Mobility Austin Equity & Inclusion Our Time Together • Economic Mobility Overview • Quality-of-Life Studies: Key Connections • Building the Economic Mobility Index • Turning the Index Into Action • Upcoming Event 2 What Drives Economic Mobility Economic mobility is shaped by our systems, policies, and investments — not just individual effort. Mobility includes building wealth and long-term stability for future generations. Education, health, housing, childcare, and strong social conditions enable families to thrive. In Austin, persistent disparities limit opportunities, but a person’s future shouldn’t be determined by their neighborhood or systemic barriers. Beyond Wages Quality of Life We Shape Systems 3 Quality-of-Life Studies: Key Connections High-Level Themes Financial Progress & Economic Outcomes • Deeply affordable housing • • Utility assistance and energy relief Job pipelines and employment access programs Quality of Life & Well-Being • Pop-up clinics in high-need areas • Culturally competent healthcare training • Inclusive planning processes for older adults Opportunities & Access Teen job search portal • • Strengthen multilingual outreach • Partnerships with schools, nonprofits, and public agencies Families, Communities, & Systems • Neighborhood safety audits • Greening and beautification initiatives • Strengthen family-support systems through childcare access and wraparound services 4 Definition Economic mobility addresses systems to improve unfair conditions that influence whether individuals, families, and communities can prosper over time and across generations. It means access to opportunities and resources needed for basic needs, financial security, and a dignified, high quality of life — regardless of race, place, gender, or ability. 5 Economic Mobility Index Human-centered, place-based tool for understanding conditions that shape residents’ ability to thrive in Austin. Visualizes neighborhood- level disparities as defined by economic mobility. Focuses on underlying conditions to guide service delivery and decision- making using data and community insights. Provides a common lens to support coordination, planning, and shared outcomes—without replacing existing tools. 6 Our Approach: Identifying Levers National Frameworks & Local Tools • Drivers of Poverty • Social Vulnerable Index • Justice 40 • Neighborhood Prosperity Dashboard etc. Hybrid Engagement Process • Quality of Life Studies • CoA Commissions • Internal & External Stakeholders • Every Texan Peer Cities Review 10 cities similar in: • State • Size • Demographics • Product CoA Levers of Economic Mobility • 3 Themes • 6 Sub-themes • 18 Levers of Economic Mobility 7 Building the Index Together Early childhood foundations shape mobility • Indicator: Enrollment in early education (public …
March 2026 Long COVID, LGBTQIA+ Community , and Public Health in Austin Introduction Recipient of the American Association of People with Disabilities 2026 Paul G Hearne Emerging Leader Award Contributor to Patient-Led Research Collaborative Board Member & Accessibility Coordinator of Austin Dyke March Founder of Clear the Air ATX 2 ● According to the CDC, Over 6 million people in Texas have a disability, or about 29% of the population. ● Texas also has the lowest health insurance rate in the country, with 13.6% of Texas children and 21.6% of Texas adults who do not have health insurance. This leads to many health barriers for people to access basic care. Healthcare & Disability in Texas Sources: Texas Care for Children , CDC Disability and Health Data System, https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandhealth Less than 2% of U.S. adults are trans or nonbinary, yet nearly 24% of all transgender adults report that they have experienced Long Covid. Bisexual adults report Long Covid cases at the same percentage rate (24%). That makes Trans adults and bisexual adults, along with Disabled adults, are the demographic groups experiencing Long Covid in the highest percentages in the country.” ● Transgender: 27.6% ● Bisexual: 22.9% ● Gay or lesbian: 21.6% ● Cis-gender female: 21.8% ● ● Cis-gender male: 13.7% Straight: 17.3% Long Covid and the LGBTQIA+ Community Research shows people from the LGBTQIA+ community face higher risk of Long COVID. Sources: Clear Health Costs, Posters by Artist Anna @copy_of_a_copy on X. US Household Pulse Survey HIV x Long Covid People with HIV had a significantly higher risk of developing long COVID across multiple organ systems than people without HIV. Sources: 48 Hills Article CIDRAP: HIV infection linked to increased risk of long COVID Long COVID Justice: Reasons PWH are more likely to develop LC One study published in February 2026 utilized linked electronic health records found: Overall, 16.3% of PWH received a long-COVID diagnosis, compared with 10.6% of PWoH, for a 29% higher risk of developing any long-COVID condition. Reasons for this may include: More severe acute COVID-19, Chronic comorbid conditions Socioeconomic factors, HIV virus-specific activity, HIV-associated immune dysfunction & different immune responses to COVID-19 infection, Baseline inflammation due to chronic HIV infection “I’d like to talk about how I see the two pandemics intersecting in my life…I was infected with HIV in 1983 and went on to develop full blown AIDS 10 years later…I had already lost my right …
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20260420-010: Bettie Naylor Street Safety Corridor The LGBTQ Quality of Life Commission recommends that the Austin City Council direct the City Manager to immediately establish a Bettie Naylor Street Safety Corridor by permanently restricting general vehicular traffic on West Fourth Street between Colorado Street and Lavaca Street, except for emergency vehicles and permitted commercial deliveries, and to implement coordinated safety mitigation, infrastructure, and venue preplanning measures. Description of Recommendation to Council 1. Austin Incident and Proximity Risk On March 1, 2026, a mass shooting occurred in Austin's West Sixth Street entertainment district, resulting in multiple fatalities and numerous injuries. Public reporting indicates that the suspect drove repeatedly around the block prior to initiating gunfire from a vehicle. The LGBTQIA+ venue The Iron Bear, located at Sixth Street and Lavaca Street, sits approximately four blocks from the incident location. Numerous LGBTQIA+ bars, theaters, bookstores, and community gathering spaces operate along and adjacent to West Fourth Street in close proximity. No permanent vehicle mitigation or corridor restriction measures have been implemented on Bettie Naylor Street following this incident. 2. National Precedent and Foreseeable Risk On January 1, 2025, a vehicle-ramming attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans killed at least 14 people and injured dozens more. Federal authorities investigated the incident as terrorism and . national security experts emphasized the vulnerability of dense entertainment corridors to hostile vehicle attacks. More than one year has passed since that incident. The March 1, 2026 Austin shooting further demonstrates vehicle-enabled reconnaissance behavior in a similar nightlife environment. These events reflect established attack patterns involving: ● Firearms and/or knife attacks at entertainment venues; ● Hostile vehicle use in pedestrian corridors; ● Rapid attacker scenarios in nightlife districts. These risks are documented and foreseeable. 3. Bettie Naylor Street Designation Between Congress Avenue and Rio Grande Street, West Fourth Street is designated Bettie Naylor Street, a historic and internationally recognized LGBTQIA+ entertainment and business district. This corridor serves as a cultural, civic, and economic asset for the City of Austin and attracts visitors nationally and internationally. 4. Permanent Vehicle Restriction and Infrastructure The Commission recommends: 1. Permanent restriction of general vehicular traffic on West Fourth Street between Colorado Street and Lavaca Street; 2. Continuous emergency vehicle access; 3. Scheduled, time-windowed commercial deliveries administered by Austin Transportation and Public Works; 4. Installation of effective hostile vehicle mitigation …
LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20, 2026 The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, April 20, 2026 at 6:30 PM at Austin City Hall, 301 W 2nd St., Austin, Texas 78701, Boards & Commissions Room 1101. Commissioners in attendance in person: KC Coyne (Chair) Kitty McLeod (Vice Chair) Jerry Joe Benson (Secretary) Devan Daniel Asher Knutson J. Scott Neal Anna Nguyen Randy Pituk Steven Rivas Commissioners in attendance remotely: Garry Brown Morgan Davis Mariana Krueger Rocio Fierro-Pérez Chair Coyne called the meeting to order at 6:32 P.M. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on March 9, 2026. The minutes of the March 9, 2026 meeting were approved on Secretary Benson’s motion, Vice Chair McLeod’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioner Nguyen abstained. Commissioner Brown was o(cid:431) the dais. Commissioners Bandit and Johnson were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. Sta(cid:431) briefing regarding Austin Emergency Medical Services’ (EMS) trainings for first responders and community members around LGBTQ+ issues, as well as a general update on EMS activities and developments. Briefing by Wesley Hopkins, Chief of Sta(cid:431), Austin- Travis County EMS. Briefing provided by Wesley Hopkins, Chief of Sta(cid:431), Austin-Travis County EMS. Sta(cid:431) briefing regarding an update on the Levers of Economic Mobility Index. Presentation by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr., and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity & Inclusion. The presentation was made by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr., and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity & Inclusion. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. 5. 6. Presentation regarding Long Covid awareness and its impact on the LGBTQIA+ community. Presentation by Katie Drackert, Clear the Air ATX. The presentation was made by Katie Drackert, Clear the Air ATX. Discussion regarding ways to prioritize intergenerational dialogue and connections among the LGBTQIA+ community. The meeting went into recess at 8:36 p.m. The meeting was called back into order at 8:45 p.m. Discussion was held. Presentation by Queerbomb 2026 organizers and discussion regarding planning, logistics, permitting, and funding for Queerbomb 2026. Presentation by Roadkill, Queerbomb 2026. Item 6 was taken up before Item 5 without objection. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 7. 8. Update from the Community Safety Working Group regarding engagement with EMS, Austin Fire Department, and law enforcement, along with key priorities and next steps. Update …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2026 AT 6:30 P.M. CITY OF AUSTIN PERMITTING & DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM #1407 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR. AUSTIN, TEXAS 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, contact Ryan Sperling at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS : Commissioner Appointment Kitty McLeod, Vice Chair (they/he) District 1 Commissioner Mariana Krueger (she/her) KC Coyne, Chair (they/he) Steven Rivas (he/him) Brigitte Bandit (they/she) District 2 District 3 District 4 VACANT Rocío Fierro-Pérez (she/her/ella) Mayor Morgan Davis (he/him) Appointment District 9 District 10 Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder Jerry Joe Benson, Secretary (he/him) District 5 Randy Pituk Asher Knutson (he/him) J. Scott Neal (he/him) Garry Brown District 6 District 7 District 8 VACANT VACANT AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 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. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting of February 9, 2026. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Presentation regarding the PHLIV Stigma Index and an HIV Resource Guide. Presentation by Michelle Osorio, Public Health Program Coordinator, Austin Public Health and Rick Astray-Caneda III, President, Friends of the David Powell Clinic. Presentation by Austin Pride to provide a high-level update and coordination conversation focused on early planning and alignment for 2026 Austin PRIDE. Presentation by Micah Andress, President, Austin PRIDE. Discussion regarding a priority list for which organizations to invite to present at commission meetings. Discussion regarding a view-only folder for commissioner resources. Discussion regarding potential collaboration with the LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 7. Report from the FY2026-27 Budget Working Group regarding its proposed budget recommendations. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. Approve a budget recommendation for LGBTQ legal navigation and community safety coordination. Approve a budget recommendation for expansion of Mpox, STI, and Vaccination Programs. Approve a recommendation for safety preparedness & first response expansion. Approve a budget recommendation for …
