REGULAR MEETING OF THE EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER ADVISORY BOARD WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 301 W. 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Michelle Rojas, 512-974-3771, Michelle.Rojas@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Angelica Navarro (D-8), Chair Hilario “Larry” Amaro (D-10), Member Lynda Quintana (D-6), Member Noemi Castro (D-2), Member Raul “Roy” Reyna (D-1), Member Alexander “Al” Duarte (D-7), Member Selma Sanchez (D-9), Member John Estrada (D-3), Member Vacant (D-4), Member Cynthia “Cy” Herrera (D-5), Member Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz (Mayor), Vice Chair AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 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 Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center (ESB- MACC) regular meeting of March 25, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on March and April programs, marketing and outreach efforts, signature event planning, and staffing updates. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Olivia Tamzarian, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Marketing & Outreach Representative, Austin Arts Culture, Music and Entertainment & Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager, Austin Arts Culture, Music and Entertainment DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. Update on Phase 2 Construction Project. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Heidi Tse, Capital Delivery Project Manager, Austin Capital Delivery Services Update on future Capital Improvement Project (CIP) plan regarding the replacement of the hot water line. (Sponsors: Reyna, Castro) Presenter(s): Heidi Tse, Capital Delivery Project Manager, Austin Capital Delivery Services DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa- Saenz) Approve a letter of support to City Council on the naming of a space at the Mexican American Cultural Center after Vanessa Guillen. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Reactivate the Awards of Excellence Working Group to discuss nominations for 2026 awardees, selection committee, …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER ADVISORY BOARD WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER - EVENT CENTER, FIRST FLOOR, ROOM 1406 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR. AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 Some members of the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Michelle Rojas, 512-974-3771, Michelle.Rojas@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Angelica Navarro (D-8), Chair Hilario “Larry” Amaro (D-10), Member Lynda Quintana (D-6), Member Noemi Castro (D-2), Member Raul “Roy” Reyna (D-1), Member Alexander “Al” Duarte (D-7), Member Selma Sanchez (D-9), Member John Estrada (D-3), Member Vacant (D-4), Member Cynthia “Cy” Herrera (D-5), Member Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz (Mayor), Vice Chair AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 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 Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center (ESB- MACC) regular meeting of February 4, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on the Teen Camino’s programs Breaking Barriers event and The Big We event hosted by the Asian American Resource Center in collaboration with A3 Art Alliance Austin. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Olivia Tamzarian, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Marketing & Outreach Representative, Austin Arts Culture, Music and Entertainment & Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager, Austin Arts Culture, Music and Entertainment DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. Presentation and recommendation to support Academia Cuahtli’s FY 2026–2027 budget recommendation of $130,000 and the creation of a full-time Program Director position. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Dr. María Del Carmen Unda, Co-Convener, Academia Cuauhtli, Postdoctoral Fellow, The University of Texas at Austin Approve a recommendation and letter to City Council on FY27 budget. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Approve a request for a $515,000 increase to the FY2027 Latino/a/e Artist Access Program (LAAP) budget to support dedicated technical and marketing staff capacity; fund essential lighting and sound infrastructure upgrades; and expand cohort size and …
3.25.26 MACC Sta(cid:431) Report – Website - Facebook - Instagram Please share our social media posts, sign up for our newsletter, and check out our upcoming events! Caminos Teen Leadership Program Upcoming: 2026 8th ANNUAL BREAKING BARRIERS YOUTH MENTAL WELLNESS DAY March 28, 10 AM – 3 PM Millenium Youth Entertainment Complex Link to RSVP on Eventbrite Save the date, March 28, for this year’s Breaking Barriers event designed, planned, and coordinated for teens-by-teens. This event It is a safe space to "break barriers" in mental health stigmas for teens via connection through community conversations and creative artmaking. Activities include screen printing, live music, zine-making, and more. Note: You can attend without an RSVP, but RSVPs will be needed in order to secure your lunch! *HS Volunteer Credit: All you'll need is your volunteer paperwork for sta(cid:431) to sign at the event, email Eufemia Rivera at eufemia.rivera@austintexas.gov for more details. Follow the program on Instagram @atxcaminos to stay updated! Breaking Barriers (Rompiendo Barreras) is an annual event advocating for mental health awareness created by teens, for teens! Join us for a powerful day to share thoughts, ideas, art, and music by teens, for teens! Breaking Barriers is an annual event led by the teens in the ESB-MACC's Caminos Teen Leadership Program. It is a safe space to "break barriers" in mental health stigmas for teens and find connection with one another! Breaking Barriers is a space for conversation, connection, and creation–We want to empower each other to break barriers, talk about our experiences (or not), and heal through creating, and building community with other teens (Ages 13-18). ACTIVITIES: Screen printing (totebags, caps, t-shirts, and more) Lunch and Snacks provided (IF you RSVP*) Live Music and Community Conversations Crafts like Jewelry Making, Air dry clay, etc Collaborations Upcoming: Art Alliance Austin Presents: The Big We Friday, 3/27 12:00pm-8:00pm Saturday, 3/28 9:00am-12:00pm Asian American Resource Center The Big We: A Creative Convening | AustinTexas.gov WHAT IS THIS EVENT?! Austin’s creative community has experienced a perfect storm of reductions or delays in Federal, State, and City funding; a lack of performance, rehearsal, and studio space; and little civic infrastructure to provide a safety net for artists, performers, and arts organizations when hard times fall. More than a few arts spaces and institutions have closed, some as old as 35 years, while arts organizations “hunker down” into silos, to keep producing their work on …
TO: Mayor and Austin City Council FROM: Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Advisory Board DATE: March 25, 2026 SUBJECT: Support for Funding Value-Engineered Items and Staffing – ESB-MACC Phase 2 Dear Mayor and Members of the Austin City Council, On behalf of the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center (ESB-MACC) Advisory Board, we write to express our strong support for key investments needed to ensure the successful completion and long-term operation of the Phase 2 expansion. First, we recommend that City Council approve the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget for the ESB-MACC as it will be presented by staff. This includes support for an increased operating budget proportionate to the expanded size, scope, and utilization of the facility, as allowable. Ensuring that operational funding scales appropriately with the facility’s growth is essential to fully activate the space and deliver high-quality programming, maintenance, and community services. We further urge the inclusion and funding of the value-engineered (VE) items associated with the Phase 2 expansion in the City of Austin’s upcoming annual budget. As outlined in the January 5, 2024 memorandum provided by the Parks and Recreation Department (attached for reference to the detailed VE items and estimated costs), approximately $6 million in construction scope was removed from the Phase 2 project through value engineering processes. While these reductions were necessary to align with prior budget constraints, they represent critical components that directly impact the functionality, accessibility, cultural relevance, and long-term sustainability of the facility. Importantly, the Phase 2 design reflects extensive public comment and community input gathered over multiple years. The elements that were value-engineered out are not incidental—they are directly tied to the community-informed vision for what this cultural center should be. As such, restoring these components through future funding is not only a matter of project completion, but of honoring the voices, priorities, and expectations of the Austin community. The deferred items include, but are not limited to: ● Auditorium and lobby renovations essential for community programming and performances ● Black Box theater upgrades, including projection, lighting, and sound improvements ● Expansion of parking capacity to better accommodate visitors and large-scale events ● Modern wayfinding systems, including digital kiosks and directories ● Rehabilitation of restrooms and upgrades to public-facing infrastructure ● Acoustical treatments and gallery enhancements to preserve the integrity of exhibitions ● Solar panel installation to advance the City’s sustainability goals ● Landscape improvements and …
ESB-MACC ADVISORY BOARD MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 4, 2026 EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER REGULAR MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2026 The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center convened in a Regular meeting on February 4, 2026, at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. (Some members of the ESB-MACC Advisory Board participated via videoconference.) Chair Navarro called the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Meeting to order at 6:13 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Angelica Navarro, Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz, Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Noemi Castro, John Estrada, Cynthia “Cy” Herrera, Raul “Roy” Reyna. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Lynda Quintana. Board Members Absent: Alexander “Al” Duarte, Selma Sanchez. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Hector Ordaz signed up to speak on agenda item 4, “Discussion on FY26-27 budget priorities regarding building operations, programming, and event planning.” APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center regular meeting of January 7, 2026. The minutes from the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center regular meeting of January 7, 2026, were approved on Vice Chair Zamarripa-Saenz motion. Board Member Reyna seconded. Motion passed on an 8-0 vote. Board Members Duarte and Sanchez absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on January and February programs, marketing and outreach efforts, signature event planning, and staffing updates. Olivia Tamzarian, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Marketing & Outreach Representative, Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment (ACME), reported on Casa de la Cultura programs, Youth and Family Education programs; Caminos Teen Leadership programming, current and upcoming marketing and outreach efforts; signature events; collaborations; the Latino/a/e Artist Access Program (LAAP); and staffing updates. (Please see the Board and Commissions Website for backup material.) DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Update on Phase 2 Construction Project. 1 ESB-MACC ADVISORY BOARD MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 4, 2026 Heidi Tse, Capital Delivery Project Manager, Austin Capital Delivery Services, provided an update on the Phase 2 Construction Project. The update included estimated and substantial completion timelines; temporary certificate and certificate of occupancy; project milestones; emergency project items; and construction progress photos. (Please see the Board and Commissions Website for backup material.) The meeting was recessed at 7:27p.m. until 7:34p.m. without objection. Discussion on FY26-27 budget priorities regarding building operations, programming, and 4. event planning. Public Communication General Speaker: Hector Ordaz, introduced himself as an artist and as a member of several working groups, including the Hispanic Quality of Life Commission, …
ACADEMIA CUAUHTLI ACADEMIACUAUHTLI.COM MISSION STATEMENT WHO DO WE SERVE? 2022 CONVENERS Academia Cuauhtli (Eagle Academy) is a culturally sustaining, languagerevitalization, out-of-school program for elementary schoolIndigenous/Latinx and emergent bilingual students attending the AustinIndependent School District (AISD). Academia Cuauhtli offers instructionand a co-constructed curriculum in Indigenous, Mexican American, TejanoStudies, and STEM courses in both English and Spanish. Located at theEmma S. Barrientos, Mexican American Cultural Center, Our Saturdayclasses are entirely free and taught in Spanish by AISD master duallanguage teachers. As a community of educators, we provide rich, culturally-relevant lessons.Informed by research, our certified, master bilingual educators providecurriculum and pedagogy that promotes academic achievement, ethnicpride, and a positive sense of family and community.Honor our community’s cultural heritage, fostera social justice consciousness, and reclaim ourcollective identity in pursuit of educationalfreedom.AISD Title 1 SchoolsBilingual teachersSpanish-speaking students and familiesDr. Angela ValenzuelaDr. Emilio ZamoraDr. Christopher Milk Bonilla TESTIMONIALS NUMBER OF LIVES IMPACTED Teachers 72 Students 429 NUMBER OF PD CLASSES 200 Teachers completed professional development workshops with Academia Cuauhtli YEARS OF TEACHING EXPERIENCE MENTORSHIP 3-21 yrs. 40+ Mentored successfully graduate students of color. Three whom are now professors. academiacuauhtli.ut@gmail.com │ 512-364-0700 https://www.facebook.com/AcademiaCuauhtli"As teachers, we get to teach for the sheer joy of teaching and the students get to learn just for the sake of acquiring knowledge. The students do not have to worry about standardized tests here. We cover topics thatare near and dear to their hearts—their language and culture." - Cuauhtli Teacher"Academia Cuauhtli is a place for kids to learn about their culture, roots, and reinforce their identity. I want my children to learn values and other important lessons so when they grow upthey are confident. Cuauhtli teaches them values that they may not fully understand now but I am sure they will remember these lessons later on and understand." - 2017-18 ParentAcademia Cuauhtli is part of NLERAPP, a tax-exempt under Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(3) About Academia Cuauhtli & Nuestro Grupo Nuestro Grupo, meaning "Our Group," originated from a pivotal meeting held at the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center (ESB-MACC) on September 20, 2013. This gathering, organized by the University of Texas at Austin's Texas Center for Education Policy (TCEP) under the leadership of Dr. Angela Valenzuela, brought together seasoned community leaders to address literacy and curriculum issues within Austin's Mexican-origin community. Against the backdrop of a statewide movement for Mexican American studies, Nuestro Grupo emerged as a response to the expressed …
EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER ADVISORY BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20260325-3 Date: March 25, 2026 Subject: FY2027 Budget Recommendation – Funding for Academia Cuauhtli Motioned By: Vice Chair Zamarripa-Saenz Seconded By: Board Member Quintana Recommendation The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Advisory Board (MACC) recommends the City Council direct the City Manager to take the following actions and to allocate funds for the following item for FY 2027. 1. 2. Support funding for Academia Cuauhtli’s FY27 operating expenses in the amount of $130,000. Add one full-time Program Director position. Rationale: Academia Cuauhtli: Academia Cuauhtli is a bilingual cultural revitalization program for third to fifth grade students attending AISD schools. Its mission is to honor cultural heritage, foster social justice, and reclaim collective identities in pursuit of educational freedom. For the past 10 years they have focused on establishing various partnerships and initiatives within the community with key focuses on students, teachers, parents, and community members. The bilingual cultural revitalization Saturday Academy offers ethnic studies and Danza Mexica instruction to AISD third- to fifth graders at no cost, including breakfast and transportation. The parent support program engages families during the Saturday Academy, providing community resources tailored to their needs. The Summer program consist of a culturally sustaining STEAM program for third to fifth grade AISD students to learn coding and Danza Mexica in both Spanish and English. The teacher’s professional development opportunities prepare and mentor teachers through support networks, professional development workshops and conferences. The MACC Advisory Board supports the ongoing funding request of Academia Cuauhtli in the amount of $130,000 and the addition of one full time Program Director position to support the academic and cultural growth, sense of identity, and belonging of indigenous, Hispanic, Spanish-speaking youth in Austin. 1 of 2 Vote: Vice Chair Zamarripa-Saenz motioned to add Academia Cuahtli’s $130,000 request to the 2027 budget recommendation. Board Member Quintana seconded on a 7-1 vote. Board Members Duarte and Sanchez absent. For: Chair Angelica Navarro, Vice Chair Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz, Board Member Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Board Member John Estrada, Board Member Cynthia “Cy” Herrera, Board Member Lynda Quintana, Board Member Raul “Roy” Reyna Against: Board Member Noemi Castro Abstain: Absent: Board Member Alexander “Al” Duarte, Board Member Selma Sanchez Attest: ___________________________ Michelle Rojas, Staff Liaison 2 of 2 TO: Mayor and Austin City Council FROM: Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Advisory Board DATE: March 31, 2026 SUBJECT: …
EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER ADVISORY BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20260325-004 Date: March 25, 2026 Subject: FY2027 Budget Recommendation - Support for Funding Value-Engineered Items and Staffing – ESB-MACC Phase 2 Motioned By: Vice Chair Zamarripa-Saenz Seconded By: Board Member Herrera Recommendation The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Advisory Board (MACC) recommends the City Council direct the City Manager to allocate funds to complete the MACC Phase 2 construction and renovation project for FY 2027. 1. Approval of the Proposed Fiscal Year 2027 Operating Budget (as Recommended by Staff) First and foremost, we recommend that City Council approve the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget for the ESB-MACC as it will be presented by staff. This includes support for an increased operating budget proportionate to the expanded size, scope, and utilization of the facility, as allowable. Ensuring that operational funding scales appropriately with the facility’s growth is essential to fully activate the space and deliver high-quality programming, maintenance, and community services. 2. Funding for Value-Engineered (VE) Items – Phase 2 Expansion We urge the inclusion and funding of the value-engineered (VE) items associated with the Phase 2 expansion in the City of Austin’s upcoming annual budget. As outlined in the January 5, 2024, memorandum provided by the Parks and Recreation Department (attached for reference to the detailed VE items and estimated costs), approximately $6 million in construction scope was removed from the Phase 2 project through value engineering processes. While these reductions were necessary to align with prior budget constraints, they represent critical components that directly impact the functionality, accessibility, cultural relevance, and long-term sustainability of the facility. Importantly, the Phase 2 design reflects extensive public comment and community input gathered over multiple years. The elements that were value-engineered out are not incidental—they are directly tied to the community-informed vision for what this cultural center should be. As such, restoring these components through future funding is not only a matter of project completion, but of honoring the voices, priorities, and expectations of the Austin community. One specific example of a high-impact value-engineered item is the stage in the Zócalo, which was removed despite being a relatively modest investment (approximately $52,000). This stage is essential for activating the outdoor space with live performances, cultural programming, and community events—core functions of the ESB-MACC’s mission. We respectfully request that this stage be funded in accordance with the cost outlined in the attached supporting documentation. …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER ADVISORY BOARD WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 301 W. 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Michelle Rojas, 512-974-3771, Michelle.Rojas@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Angelica Navarro (D-8), Chair Hilario “Larry” Amaro (D-10), Member Lynda Quintana (D-6), Member Noemi Castro (D-2), Member Raul “Roy” Reyna (D-1), Member Alexander “Al” Duarte (D-7), Member Selma Sanchez (D-9), Member John Estrada (D-3), Member Vacant (D-4), Member Cynthia “Cy” Herrera (D-5), Member Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz (Mayor), Vice Chair AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 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 Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center regular meeting of January 7, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on January and February programs, marketing and outreach efforts, signature event planning, and staffing updates. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Olivia Tamzarian, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Marketing & Outreach Representative, Austin Arts Culture, Music and Entertainment & Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager, Austin Arts Culture, Music and Entertainment DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. Update on Phase 2 Construction Project. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Heidi Tse, Capital Delivery Project Manager, Austin Capital Delivery Services Discussion on FY26-27 budget priorities regarding building operations, programming, and event planning. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presentation by community members on their experience with Cultural Arts funding. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Luis Ordaz, Hector Ordaz of Proyecto Teatro, Raquel Rivera of SUREM Dance, and Guicha Gutierrez of CasaCostura Presentation by past participants on their experience with the ESB MACC Latino Arts Residency Program. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Luis Ordaz, Hector Ordaz of Proyecto Teatro and Dr. Roen Salinas of Aztlan Dance Company DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Presentation and recommendation by Iván Dávila, Chair …
ESB-MACC ADVISORY BOARD MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 7, 2026 EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2026 MINUTES The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center convened in a Regular meeting on January 7, 2026, at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. (Some members of the ESB-MACC Advisory Board participated via videoconference.) Chair Navarro called the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Angelica Navarro, Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz, Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Noemi Castro, Alexander “Al” Duarte, John Estrada, Raul “Roy” Reyna, Selma Sanchez. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Cynthia “Cy” Herrera (arrived at 6:34 p.m.), Lynda Quintana. Board Members Absent: Anthony Martinez. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Mateo Hernandez, Teatro Vivo Board Member, reported on Teatro Vivo’s collaboration with the MACC on the production of La Pastorela. He noted that the event had a strong turnout, reaching more than 160 audience members, and that attendees expressed their gratitude for a bilingual performance that was culturally relevant to Latine communities. Mr. Hernandez shared that this year’s performance was designed as a participatory experience, inviting the audience to actively become a part of the story. He concluded by thanking MACC staff, AARC Staff, and Board Member Amaro for their support and contributions to the success of the production. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center regular meeting of November 5, 2025. The minutes from the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center regular meeting of November 5, 2025, were approved as amended on a motion by Board Member Duarte and a second by Vice Chair Zamarripa-Saenz. Amendments included revisions to Discussion Item 5, clarification of terminology from “Mexican American” to “Mexican- American.” The motion passed on a 9-0 vote. Board Members Herrera and Martinez absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on November, December, and January programs, marketing and outreach efforts, and updates on signature event planning. Erik Granados, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Coordinator, Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment, gave a briefing on Casa de la Cultura programming. 1 ESB-MACC ADVISORY BOARD MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 7, 2026 Olivia Tamzarian, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Marketing & Outreach Representative, Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment, reported on Youth and Family Education programs; Caminos Teen Leadership programming; current and upcoming marketing and outreach efforts; signature events; collaborations; the Latino/a/e Artist Access …
EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER Phase 2 Improvements MACC Advisor y Board Update Heidi Tse Capital Delivery Project Manager February 4, 2026 Estimated Completion Late Spring 2026 The Re-opening may occur sometime between the project’s substantial completion and final completion. Substantial Completion (contractual term) is when the facility is deemed ready to be occupied by the owner, but other minor work still needs to be completed by the contractor. The exact date or alignment of the Re-opening will not be known until construction has significantly progressed. Must achieve TCO at a minimum. The anticipated project completion timeline is: 1. Target Substantial Completion: 11/03/25 11/19/25 12/2025 Late 2/2026 or 3/2026 2. Target Re-opening Late Spring 2026 Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) grants temporary, conditional use of a building for stocking or furnishing before all construction work is fully completed. MACC full building TCO on 1/23/2026 Certificate of Occupancy (CO) that proves a structure is habitable based on its legal use and type of property and meets all building codes. Targeted for Late February – March 2026 TCO vs CO Substantial Completion (Contract Promised Date 9/11/25) : 1. Create Punchlist of work to be remediated • Begin generating official Punchlist with each design discipline for conformity of design intent from December 2025 - January 2026 Items to complete: • January 2, 2026 – 3,335 January 29, 2026 - 1,699 • • • Completed ~50% 2. Provide Training for MACC staff on building systems. • Begin December 2025 - January 2026 Theatrical Rigging System (116133) Food Service Equipment (114000) Fire Suppression (211313) Heat Tracing (220533) Electric Water Heaters (223333) Direct Digital Control System for HVAC (230923) Water Treatment for Hydronic Systems (232500) Access Control System (281300) Video Surveillance System (282300) Network Lighting Controls (260943) Scheduled for 2/2 Multi-Purpose and Classroom A-V Systems (274120) 2/1 Project Milestones Updates • Ceremonial Groundbreaking: December 10, 2022 • GMP 1 (Site Work) Notice to Proceed issued: August 28, 2023 • GMP 2 (Building / Landscape) Notice to Proceed issued: March 7, 2024 • Steel “Topping Out”: September 11, 2024 • Target Major Construction Ends: February 2025 • Target Stocking: Late February 2026 • Target Staff Move-In: March 2026 • Target Grand Re-Opening: Late Spring 2026 Emergency Project • The The pipe has deteriorated to the point that 6” steel ductile is peeling off as layers with the 2” insulation. The picture indicates rust and stress …
EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER Phase 2 Improvements MACC Advisor y Board Update Heidi Tse Capital Delivery Project Manager February 4, 2026 Estimated Completion Late Spring 2026 The Re-opening may occur sometime between the project’s substantial completion and final completion. Substantial Completion (contractual term) is when the facility is deemed ready to be occupied by the owner, but other minor work still needs to be completed by the contractor. The exact date or alignment of the Re-opening will not be known until construction has significantly progressed. Must achieve TCO at a minimum. The anticipated project completion timeline is: 1. Target Substantial Completion: 11/03/25 11/19/25 12/2025 Late 2/2026 or 3/2026 2. Target Re-opening Late Spring 2026 Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) grants temporary, conditional use of a building for stocking or furnishing before all construction work is fully completed. MACC building additions TCO on 1/23/2026 MACC existing building TCO Stocking only. Certificate of Occupancy (CO) that proves a structure is habitable based on its legal use and type of property and meets all building codes. Targeted for Late February – March 2026 TCO vs CO Substantial Completion (Contract Promised Date 9/11/25) : 1. Create Punchlist of work to be remediated • Begin generating official Punchlist with each design discipline for conformity of design intent from December 2025 - January 2026 Items to complete: • January 2, 2026 – 3,335 January 29, 2026 - 1,699 • • • Completed ~50% 2. Provide Training for MACC staff on building systems. • Begin December 2025 - January 2026 Theatrical Rigging System (116133) Food Service Equipment (114000) Fire Suppression (211313) Heat Tracing (220533) Electric Water Heaters (223333) Direct Digital Control System for HVAC (230923) Water Treatment for Hydronic Systems (232500) Access Control System (281300) Video Surveillance System (282300) Network Lighting Controls (260943) Multi-Purpose and Classroom A-V Systems (274120) Project Milestones Updates • Ceremonial Groundbreaking: December 10, 2022 • GMP 1 (Site Work) Notice to Proceed issued: August 28, 2023 • GMP 2 (Building / Landscape) Notice to Proceed issued: March 7, 2024 • Steel “Topping Out”: September 11, 2024 • Target Major Construction Ends: February 2025 • Target Stocking: Late February 2026 • Target Staff Move-In: March 2026 • Target Grand Re-Opening: Late Spring 2026 Emergency Project • The The pipe has deteriorated to the point that 6” steel ductile iron is peeling off as layers with the 2” insulation. The picture indicates …
“Briefing by community members on their experience with Cultural Arts funding.” Luis Ordaz Gutierrez, Executive Director of ProyectoTEATRO Dr. Roen Salinas, Executive Director of Aztlan Dance Company Raquel Rivera, Executive Director of Roy Lozano’s Ballet Folklorico de TX. Brief History of Austin’s Cultural Funding Programs 2020: Pause and Redesign 2020: Pause and Redesign 2023 Reset 2020: Pause and Redesign FY2025-2026 FY2025-2026 Closing
City of austin’s Cultural arts funding -------------------------------- Briefing by community artists on their experience with the city’s fuding programs Advisory Board Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz Presenters: Dr. Róen Salinas | Aztlan Dance Company Luis Ordaz Gutiérrez | ProyectoTEATRO Hector Ordaz Gutiérrez | ProyectoTEATRO Raquel Rivera | SUREM & Roy Lozano’s Ballet Folklórico Brief history 40+ years of cultural arts funding • HOT Tax funding source • Long standing cultural contractors include all LARP artists to date • Institutionalized and systemic underfunding of non-white artists since programs were rolled out in the late 70s / early 80s. Issues are rooted in inequitable funding eligibility qualifications, budget matrices that favor white socioeconomic levels, and language accessibility barriers for non-english speaking artists. 1 2020: Funding distribution for Latino arts published 40+ years inequitable distribution All City of Austin cultural arts funding programs are frozen per 3rd party consultant recommendation. Research recommends: • More program outreach and accessibility communities. • Equal representation in the distribution of the cultural art funding • Priority to vulnerable communities that had been historically left out • Ability to apply in other languages other than english for BIPOC 2015-2021: Latino community only receives 9% of entire city funding. Pause, redesigning, and reset 2020 and beyond New Funding levels are proposed as: • Thrive for large organizations • Elevate for medium organizations • Nexus for small organizations or emerging artists With new funding matrices, less challenging applications, fewer eligibility requirements and… The opportunity to apply in 7 languages other than english! Latino artist can finally apply in Spanish! 3 Issues and challenges for spanish-speakers The start of a series of language accessibility issues Inaugural 2023 reset launch of new programs: • Negligent Translation errors; deadline to allow for Spanish speakers to receive application support. No contracts in spanish available. City moves to extend 2024 2nd Cycle of New Fudning programs: • Negligent Translation errors, community, poor attempts at supporting spanish speakers. Hispanic Quality of LIfe makes recommendation → No outreach to Latino 2025 3rd Cycle of New Fudning programs: • Negligent Translation errors, confusing eligibility process, lack of spanish language replies, still no contracts in spanish. 4 5 Community ask Moving forward 1. Appropriate outreach to Latino community regarding funding programs 2. Human translations of all documents in the process 3. Oversight of spanish-language process in its entirety 4. Contracts in Spanish 5. Metrics and data regarding distribution amounts of cultural …
esb-macc latino arts residency program -------------------------------- Briefing by past participants on their experience with the macc’s residency program from 2008-2021 Advisory Board Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz Presenters: Dr. Róen Salinas | Aztlan Dance Company Luis Ordaz Gutiérrez | ProyectoTEATRO Hector Ordaz Gutiérrez | ProyectoTEATRO Javier Jara | Los Bohemios Perdidos Juan Oyervides | Past MACC Advisory Board Chair 2008 grand opening & the first years A phase of trial and error driven by community feedback • Difficulty for artists and arts organizations to access the MACC for rehearsals, performances, and classes. Rental rates too expensive for community artists. High rates comparable to private event spaces for quinces and galas . • Operating hours were the same as city recreation centers; closing at 5PM during the week and 6PM on Saturdays. Closed on Sundays. • Staff aggressions towards community artists. The community spoke out and these issues catalyzed the creation of the LARP program. 2 Latino arts residency program larp The following 4 arts organizations led the inaugural 2013 LARP cohort 3 larp Feedback & Recommendations Inaugural cohort shared these recommendations to improve LARP: MACC Facility: Most spaces at the MACC were not appropriate for artists’ creative process nor performances. It was evident that artists’ were not part of the design and build-out of any of the rooms throughout the cultural center. Remodeling recommendations were made to 5 spaces. Policies and Procedures: Operation procedures hindered the standard creative process of arts organizations. LARP programs clashed with ESB-MACC programs. Calendar process was implemented by LARPers. Hours of Operation did not align with a cultural center. Rehearsal hours were granted till 10PM and Performance nights were granted till 11PM. Staff: PARD Staff did not have the experience to support and maintain the MACC’s technical inventory nor the LARP program itself. • Tech Coordinator was created • LARP coordinator was created • PT assisted in tech trainings for MACC staff • Tech equipment inventory was created 4 Multipurpose auditorium→ Performance auditorium • Install risers to correct audience sightlines • Paint curved wall black in lieu of wall removal • Install raised Tech booth • Install lighting grid + dimmer controls • Install choir mics • Install acoustic panels (shells) • Install speakers for front of house sound R r RR Rr Rr rr multi-use “Black box”→ Performance Black box • Paint all silver aluminum walls black R r RR Rr • Shift lighting grid & …
Coalition for Austin’s Arts and Spanish- Language Theatre From Access to Incubation Strengthening LAAP to Support Emerging Artists A partnership between the ESB-MACC and CAAST Who We Are Coalition of Spanish-language performing artists and companies Active in Austin for 20+ years, with local and national recognition Focused on aligning existing City infrastructure to better support artists Coalition for Austin’s Arts & Spanish-language Theatre Why LAAP Must Evolve Current realityLAAP has expanded access to MACC facilities for Latino artistsThe program has been intentionally designed as a space-access model,supported by technical assistance, professional development, and staff support.LAAP artists have gone on to contracts, funding opportunities, rentals, and Citypartnerships.Core insightLAAP has laid a strong foundation; but evolving into an incubator requires sustainedcapacity to deliver consistent, repeatable outcomes for artists. The Gap We’re Addressing The level of hands-on support can vary by project and timing due to limited staffing capacity. Outcomes vary across cohorts based on artist readiness and available staff support. Sustained progress is not experienced consistently from project to project. What It Takes to Do This Right To move LAAP from access to true incubation, investment must address three things simultaneously: 1. People 2. Infrastructure 3. Program capacity. Funding only one or two elements would perpetuate the current gap rather than resolve it. Our proposal calls for an additional annual $515,000 investment, which represents the minimum level required to deliver consistent production readiness, artist empowerment, and language equity as a cohesive system. Design Principles for a True Incubator 1. Production Readiness 2.Artist Empowerment and Sustainability 3.Language and Cultural Equity What Production Readiness Requires C. Centralized Marketing & Audience Development Support (FTE) A. Dedicated Technical Support (FTE) Removes technical burden from artists Ensures consistent quality across productions Builds in-house expertise rather than outsourcing B. Lighting & Sound Infrastructure Upgrades Enables artists to work at professional standards Reduces technical barriers for future cohorts Positions MACC for scalable programming without Phase 3 construction Investment: $87K + $300K + $78K = $465K PRODUCTION READINESSBuilds artists’ long-term audience capacityReduces burnout and inequityStrengthens ESB-MACC’s relationship withSpanish-speaking communities From Access to Incubation Current LAAP: ~$90K annually 11–15 artists/groups Access to space Limited project-based support Artists operate largely independently Total investment: $465K + $50K = $515K Proposed Expansion: +$50K annual investment ~20 artists/groups Infrastructure + technical staff Integrated production and promotion Practical skill-building Artists exit with tools to sustain their practice PRODUCTION READINESS Capacity-Building Beyond the Stage of ESB-MACC Building …
ESB-MACC ADVISORY BOARD MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 4, 2026 EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER REGULAR MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2026 The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center convened in a Regular meeting on February 4, 2026, at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. (Some members of the ESB-MACC Advisory Board participated via videoconference.) Chair Navarro called the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Meeting to order at 6:13 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Angelica Navarro, Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz, Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Noemi Castro, John Estrada, Cynthia “Cy” Herrera, Raul “Roy” Reyna. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Lynda Quintana. Board Members Absent: Alexander “Al” Duarte, Selma Sanchez. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Hector Ordaz signed up to speak on agenda item 4, “Discussion on FY26-27 budget priorities regarding building operations, programming, and event planning.” APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center regular meeting of January 7, 2026. The minutes from the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center regular meeting of January 7, 2026, were approved on Vice Chair Zamarripa-Saenz motion. Board Member Reyna seconded. Motion passed on an 8-0 vote. Board Members Duarte and Sanchez absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on January and February programs, marketing and outreach efforts, signature event planning, and staffing updates. Olivia Tamzarian, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Marketing & Outreach Representative, Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment (ACME), reported on Casa de la Cultura programs, Youth and Family Education programs; Caminos Teen Leadership programming, current and upcoming marketing and outreach efforts; signature events; collaborations; the Latino/a/e Artist Access Program (LAAP); and staffing updates. (Please see the Board and Commissions Website for backup material.) DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Update on Phase 2 Construction Project. 1 ESB-MACC ADVISORY BOARD MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 4, 2026 Heidi Tse, Capital Delivery Project Manager, Austin Capital Delivery Services, provided an update on the Phase 2 Construction Project. The update included estimated and substantial completion timelines; temporary certificate and certificate of occupancy; project milestones; emergency project items; and construction progress photos. (Please see the Board and Commissions Website for backup material.) The meeting was recessed at 7:27p.m. until 7:34p.m. without objection. Discussion on FY26-27 budget priorities regarding building operations, programming, and 4. event planning. Public Communication General Speaker: Hector Ordaz, introduced himself as an artist and as a member of several working groups, including the Hispanic Quality of Life Commission, …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER ADVISORY BOARD WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 301 W. 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Michelle Rojas, 512-974-3771, Michelle.Rojas@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Angelica Navarro (D-8), Chair Hilario “Larry” Amaro (D-10), Member Anthony Martinez (D-4), Member Noemi Castro (D-2), Member Lynda Quintana (D-6), Member Alexander “Al” Duarte (D-7), Member Raul “Roy” Reyna (D-1), Member John Estrada (D-3), Member Selma Sanchez (D-9), Member Cynthia “Cy” Herrera (D-5), Member Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz (Mayor), Vice Chair AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 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 Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center regular meeting of November 5, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on November, December, and January programs, marketing and outreach efforts, and updates on signature event planning. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Olivia Tamzarian, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Marketing & Outreach Representative, Austin Arts Culture, Music and Entertainment & Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager, Austin Arts Culture, Music and Entertainment DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. Update on Phase 2 Construction Project. (Sponsors: Quintana, Sanchez) Presenter(s): Heidi Tse, Capital Delivery Project Manager, Austin Capital Delivery Services Community update outlining the history of the Latino arts community and City of Austin funding programs. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Morgan Messick, Economic Development, Assistant Director, Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment & Laura Odegaard, Program Manager III, Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment Presentation by community members on their experience with Cultural Arts funding. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Luis Ordaz, Hector Ordaz of Proyecto Teatro, Raquel Rivera of SUREM Dance, and Guicha Gutierrez of CasaCostura Presentation by past participants on their experience with the ESB MACC Latino Arts Residency Program. …
ESB-MACC ADVISORY BOARD MEETING MINUTES NOVEMBER 5, 2025 EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER REGULAR MEETING MINUTES NOVEMBER 5, 2025 The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center convened in a Regular Meeting on November 5, 2025, at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. (Some members of the ESB-MACC Advisory Board participated via videoconference.) Chair Navarro called the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Meeting to order at 6:10 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Angelica Navarro, Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Alexander “Al” Duarte, Lynda Quintana, Selma Sanchez. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz (left at 7:40 p.m.), Raul “Roy” Reyna. Board Members Absent: Noemi Castro, John Estrada, Cynthia “Cy” Herrera, Anthony Martinez. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Speaker 1: Emilio Zamora, Ph.D., Co-founder, Academia Cuauhtli and University of Texas Professor addressed the Board to provide an update on Academia Cuauhtli’s ongoing activities and noted their intention to report to the Board every three to four months. He provided information on a proposed historical exhibition of the MACC, stating the exhibition would cover the history from the 1970s to the present. He indicated that the written narrative for the exhibition was halfway complete, and they were actively seeking funding to support the project. Dr. Zamora added that the plan would be to present the exhibition following the facility’s reopening. Speaker 2: Gonzalo Barrientos, Former State Senator made a statement to the Board, explaining that he frequently receives inquiries from community members regarding events such as quinceañeras and other celebrations. He stated that he informs callers that the facility is operated by the City of Austin and governed by the MACC Board, clarifying that the center is simply named in honor of his late wife. He offered suggestions regarding oversight of the MACC, emphasizing the roles of governing bodies, staff, and the use of public funds. He expressed his hope that the questions he commonly receives could be answered through clear communication of departmental responsibilities, programs, projects, and future plans. Mr. Barrientos added that he would be willing to return to the Board if they wished to discuss any specific questions further. Speaker 3: Anna Maciel, Former MACC Advisory Board Member spoke to the Board regarding Pan Am Hillside. She expressed her support for the MACC hosting events at the hillside, provided certain conditions were met. Ms. Maciel stressed the importance of unified communication and collaboration among all parties. She …
EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER Phase 2 Improvements MACC Advisor y Board Update Heidi Tse Capital Delivery Project Manager January 7, 2026 • Parking : Overflow parking sod installed. Exterior (left) : Concrete is being cleaned in preparation for new seal coat. Exterior (right): Existing stair has been repainted • Auditorium: Control Booth has been painted • Interiors: Pin boards installed in classrooms and meeting rooms. South Addition: Storefront Water test in progress. Reception: Curved window with temporary Plexi-glass installation in progress . Auditorium: Theatrical curtains installed. Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) grants temporary, conditional use of a building for stocking or furnishing before all construction work is fully completed. MACC full building TCO for Stocking as of 11/12/2025 Certificate of Occupancy (CO) that proves a structure is habitable based on its legal use and type of property and meets all building codes. Targeted for Spring 2026 TCO vs CO Estimated Completion The Re-opening may occur sometime between the project’s substantial completion and final completion. Substantial Completion (contractual term) is when the facility is deemed ready to be occupied by the owner, but other minor work still needs to be completed by the contractor. The exact date or alignment of the Re-opening will not be known until construction has significantly progressed. Must achieve TCO at a minimum. The anticipated project completion timeline is: 1. Target Substantial Completion: 11/03/25 11/19/25 12/2025 – 2/2026 2. Target Re-opening Spring 2026 Substantial Completion (Contract Promised Date 9/11/25) : 1. Create Punchlist of work to be remediated • Begin generating official Punchlist with each design discipline for conformity of design intent from December 2025 - January 2026 2. Provide Training for MACC staff on building systems. • Begin December 2025 - January 2026 December 12, 2025 No. of Items recorded: 1,094 January 2, 2026 No. of Items recorded: 2,335 Project Milestones Updates • Ceremonial Groundbreaking: December 10, 2022 • GMP 1 (Site Work) Notice to Proceed issued: August 28, 2023 • GMP 2 (Building / Landscape) Notice to Proceed issued: March 7, 2024 • Steel “Topping Out”: September 11, 2024 • Target Major Construction Ends: February 2025 • Target Stocking: Late February 2026 • Target Staff Move-In: March 2026 • Target Grand Re-Opening: Spring 2026 Emergency Project Square Foot Analysis Questions ?
Look Back at 2025 with the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center As we close out the year, we want to take a moment to share some of our highlights of 2025. Thank you to our MACC community and our collaborative partners! Because of you, we expanded our programming reach to new locations and new audiences! A special thanks goes out to those organizations that hosted our MACC programming in 2025. Thanks to the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center, Asian American Resource Center, Dougherty Arts Center! We thank the Parque Zaragoza, Pan Am, and Dove Springs Recreation Centers, our Senior Centers, our Austin Public Libraries and other city sites for hosting us! In 2025 we accomplished quite a lot of firsts! Our Caminos teens created incredible murals in the Pocket Park outside the MACC that tell visitors about the rich cultural history of Mexican Americans in Austin. We explored new places to host our programs. For the first time ever, we held our La Mujer event at the historic Parque Zaragoza Rec Center. We also held our Teen conference at the AARC which allowed us to expand the event to incorporate a dynamite workshop from SaulPaul and to reach even more teens. We collaborated with the annual Grito de la Independencia at Republic Square park and with the Fiesta Reclamada event in May, produced by A3 Art Alliance Austin. In August we collaborated with the Mexican Consulate on a film screening of Pedro Paramo at the Carver. Our collaborations made this possible. Our Education Programs included Spring Break and Summer Camps, afterschool programs, and Breaking Barriers Teen Conference, hosted for the first time at the Asian American Resource Center. We reached a younger audience with Morning Glories in collaboration with Waterloo Greenway. We collaborated with the Dove Springs Community Library for their Noche de Fiesta nights in September and December. Holistic Wellness/ Casa de la Cultura programs provided a wide variety of workshops and classes, including the Day of Wellness at Sunset Community Garden, and Sabados en Familia with Waterloo Greenway. We offered workshops on will writing and, homebuying! We stayed fit with bilingual wellness classes that included self-defense workshops, salsa, bachata, cumbia dance classes, kayaking, swimming, drumming, guitar, and yoga workshops! And we connected with Austinseniors through Cine de Oro and painting classes. Our signature events and annual collaborations kept going strong! We were honored to …
MACC Advisory Board Staff Report January 7, 2026 Casa de la Cultura will offer accessible and inclusive family classes and workshops rooted in preserving Mexican American, Indigenous, and Latino culture and traditions. Each pillar within Casa de la Cultura program will support the presentation of local artists, instructors, and educators. We aim to promote a lifelong curiosity for creating art and the expression of identity. -friendly La Cocina will offer family -friendly culinary workshops and demonstrations. Participants will explore traditional cooking techniques, diverse Latin American flavors, and promote healthy eating practices while preserving authenticity. • La Tamalada/ Tortilla -making Workshops • Cooking Demos • Nutrition classes Tamalada December 6 , 2026 - w/Tamale Addiction Conley Guerreo Senior Center 50 participants Community Partners: Tejano Genealogy Society of Austin Sana Yoga Herbal Action Project Artes Culturales creativity through diverse mediums and styles. Each session encourages artistic expression while highlighting cultural heritage and innovation. hosts art classes that invite participants to explore • Ceramics • Textiles • Cartoneria Danza celebrates rhythm, movement, and the joy of expression. From traditional forms to modern beats, youth and adults alike will connect with culture through motion, music, and dance. • Ballet Folklórico Classes • Social Dance – Cumbia Norteña • Latin folk dance Cine celebrates the art of film through screenings, artist talks, and hands workshops. The program highlights Latin filmmakers, documentaries, and creative storytelling while offering opportunities to learn about filmmaking techniques. -on • Film Screenings • Make -up Workshops • Costume Design Jardín invites participants to get their hands in the soil and connect with the earth. Through volunteer opportunities and educational workshops, the program fosters sustainability, herbal knowledge, and community well -being • Garden Volunteer Workdays • Herbalism and Botanical Classes • Native Plant and Gardening Workshops Música celebrates the vibrant sounds of Latin America through hands music education and creative collaboration. Participants will explore rhythm, melody, and storytelling while building skills in performance. -on • Music Instructional Classes – MACC Conjunto/Mariachi • Songwriting Literatura honors the written word as a powerful expression of identity, memory, and imagination. Participants will engage with culturally relevant works and create their own through reading and writing workshops. • Book Clubs • Storytelling • Poetry Movement promotes physical wellness and self forms of movement. These programs invite participants to reconnect with their bodies, nature, and community via a cultural lens. -expression through diverse • Mindful Movement • …
EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER Phase 2 Improvements MACC Advisor y Board Update Heidi Tse Capital Delivery Project Manager January 7, 2026 • Parking : Overflow parking sod installed. Exterior (left) : Concrete is being cleaned in preparation for new seal coat. Exterior (right): Existing stair has been repainted • Auditorium: Control Booth has been painted • Interiors: Pin boards installed in classrooms and meeting rooms. South Addition: Storefront Water test in progress. Reception: Curved window with temporary Plexi-glass installation in progress . Auditorium: Theatrical curtains installed. Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) grants temporary, conditional use of a building for stocking or furnishing before all construction work is fully completed. MACC full building TCO for Stocking as of 11/12/2025 Certificate of Occupancy (CO) that proves a structure is habitable based on its legal use and type of property and meets all building codes. Targeted for Spring 2026 TCO vs CO Estimated Completion The Re-opening may occur sometime between the project’s substantial completion and final completion. Substantial Completion (contractual term) is when the facility is deemed ready to be occupied by the owner, but other minor work still needs to be completed by the contractor. The exact date or alignment of the Re-opening will not be known until construction has significantly progressed. Must achieve TCO at a minimum. The anticipated project completion timeline is: 1. Target Substantial Completion: 11/03/25 11/19/25 12/2025 – 2/2026 2. Target Re-opening Spring 2026 Substantial Completion (Contract Promised Date 9/11/25) : 1. Create Punchlist of work to be remediated • Begin generating official Punchlist with each design discipline for conformity of design intent from December 2025 - January 2026 2. Provide Training for MACC staff on building systems. • Begin December 2025 - January 2026 December 12, 2025 No. of Items recorded: 1,094 January 2, 2026 No. of Items recorded: 2,335 Project Milestones Updates • Ceremonial Groundbreaking: December 10, 2022 • GMP 1 (Site Work) Notice to Proceed issued: August 28, 2023 • GMP 2 (Building / Landscape) Notice to Proceed issued: March 7, 2024 • Steel “Topping Out”: September 11, 2024 • Target Major Construction Ends: February 2025 • Target Stocking: Late February 2026 • Target Staff Move-In: March 2026 • Target Grand Re-Opening: Spring 2026 Emergency Project Square Foot Analysis Questions ?
Funding Programs Update Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment | January 7, 2026 History of Cultural Funding in Austin ▪ Since 1981: Funded through Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) authorized by state law ▪ Impact: Over $125M invested in 870+ artists and arts organizations ▪ 2019 Snapshot: 5 staff managed 600 contracts in one year ▪ Transparency: Explore all HOT Cultural Funding recipients on the City’s Open Data Portal ▪ 2003: Cultural Funding moved from Parks & Recreation to Economic Development Department ▪ 2013–Present: Arts Commission collaborates with staff to update and approve program guidelines ▪ 2019: Austin Live Music Fund Established through Ordinance No 20190919-149 2 Impetus to Revise Funding Guidelines 2017: Cultural Funding Program Responsiveness Working Group 2018: Funding cuts for the first time (11%) COA Equity Statement: Strategic Direction 2023 Problem: Address 50 years of inequitable funding distribution. 3 Concerns of Inequitable Distribution* *Data shows leadership/staff demographics FY15-FY 21 only. We recognize this is only one indicator. 4 Cultural Funding Review Process 5 Creative Sector Pandemic Relief 2020-2022 $23,042,284 Funded 6 Cultural Funding Review Process Report ▪ June 29, 2022 – Arts Commission Approved Pilot Program Guidelines ▪ Summer 2022 QOL Commissions and Council briefed https://www.austintexas.gov/department/cultural-funding 7 Holistic Funding Ecosystem Nexus Nurture new and emerging applicants by funding creative public projects developed through community activation and/or collaboration. Elevate Creative and administrative expenses of cultural producers that amplify equity and prioritize inclusive programming. Thrive Focused investment to sustain and grow arts organizations that are deeply rooted in, and reflective of Austin’s diverse cultures. 8 Pilot Program Investment Outcomes Grantee Investment by Demographics FY2015 - 2021 Grantee Investment by Demographics FY 2023 - 2024 9 Constant Change! • Established February 24, 2025 • AACME focuses on sustaining and growing Austin's creative sector • AACME acts as a central hub for City's cultural ecosystem and provides resources (funding, institutional support, special permits, access to cultural spaces). The Creative Reset: Phase I 12 The Creative Reset - https://publicinput.com/a88770 Spring-Summer 2025 Community Engagement Phase 1 Goal: to improve funding programs 11,801 Comments Updated AACME Funding Programs Guidelines 13 Funding Programs: Guidelines ▪ Clearer definitions ▪ Clearer criteria ▪ Simplified processes ▪ More accessible resources across all programs ▪ Learn More: austintexas.gov/acme/grants-funding English Guidelines Spanish Guidelines 14 AACME Enhancements ▪ Unified Structure: All funding programs consolidated into one division ▪ Stronger Connections: Cultural Centers & staff better integrated with Funding team ▪ Community Engagement: ▪ …
ESB-MACC ADVISORY BOARD MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 7, 2026 EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2026 MINUTES The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center convened in a Regular meeting on January 7, 2026, at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. (Some members of the ESB-MACC Advisory Board participated via videoconference.) Chair Navarro called the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Angelica Navarro, Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz, Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Noemi Castro, Alexander “Al” Duarte, John Estrada, Raul “Roy” Reyna, Selma Sanchez. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Cynthia “Cy” Herrera (arrived at 6:34 p.m.), Lynda Quintana. Board Members Absent: Anthony Martinez. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Mateo Hernandez, Teatro Vivo Board Member, reported on Teatro Vivo’s collaboration with the MACC on the production of La Pastorela. He noted that the event had a strong turnout, reaching more than 160 audience members, and that attendees expressed their gratitude for a bilingual performance that was culturally relevant to Latine communities. Mr. Hernandez shared that this year’s performance was designed as a participatory experience, inviting the audience to actively become a part of the story. He concluded by thanking MACC staff, AARC Staff, and Board Member Amaro for their support and contributions to the success of the production. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center regular meeting of November 5, 2025. The minutes from the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center regular meeting of November 5, 2025, were approved as amended on a motion by Board Member Duarte and a second by Vice Chair Zamarripa-Saenz. Amendments included revisions to Discussion Item 5, clarification of terminology from “Mexican American” to “Mexican- American.” The motion passed on a 9-0 vote. Board Members Herrera and Martinez absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on November, December, and January programs, marketing and outreach efforts, and updates on signature event planning. Erik Granados, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Coordinator, Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment, gave a briefing on Casa de la Cultura programming. 1 ESB-MACC ADVISORY BOARD MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 7, 2026 Olivia Tamzarian, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Marketing & Outreach Representative, Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment, reported on Youth and Family Education programs; Caminos Teen Leadership programming; current and upcoming marketing and outreach efforts; signature events; collaborations; the Latino/a/e Artist Access …
