07-1: Draft Recommendation on Additional Funding for Maintenance and Homeless Response — original pdf

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PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION YYYYMMDD-XXX Seconded By: Additional Funding for Maintenance and Homeless Response Date: Subject: Motioned By: Recommendation The Parks and Recreation Board Recommends that Austin City Council allocate an additional $2.62 million to the Parks and Recreation Department's budget for the upcoming fiscal year; and that of this amount, $2.24 million be allocated towards parks maintenance, including $1.5 million in ongoing funding and $740,000 in one-time funding, to support 16 year- round full-time equivalent (FTE) positions and necessary supplies; and that $385,000 be allocated towards the Homeless Encampment Response Team, including $375,000 in ongoing funding and $10,000 in one-time funding, to support 4 year-round FTE positions, operations, and necessary supplies. Rationale: Whereas, the City of Austin's Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) plays a critical role in maintaining the city's parks, green spaces, and recreational facilities, contributing to the overall quality of life and well-being of Austin residents; and Whereas, the demand for park maintenance has increased significantly due to the growing population and the increased use of park facilities, necessitating additional resources to ensure these spaces are safe, clean, and accessible to all residents; and Whereas, the Parks and Recreation Department is currently underfunded, limiting its ability to adequately maintain park facilities, leading to deteriorating conditions and reduced enjoyment for the community; and Whereas, the Homeless Encampment Response Team (HERT) provides essential services by addressing the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness within parks and ensuring the safety and cleanliness of these public spaces for all users; and Whereas, the HERT requires additional funding to effectively manage and respond to homeless encampments, ensuring that all park users, including those experiencing homelessness, receive the support and services they need; Therefore, be it resolved, that the Austin City Council is hereby recommended to allocate an additional $2.62 million to the Parks and Recreation Department's budget for the upcoming fiscal year; and Be it further resolved, that of this amount, $2.24 million be allocated towards parks maintenance, including $1.5 million in ongoing funding and $740,000 in one-time funding, to support 16 year-round full-time equivalent (FTE) positions and necessary supplies; and 1 of 2  Be it further resolved, that $385,000 be allocated towards the Homeless Encampment Response Team, including $375,000 in ongoing funding and $10,000 in one-time funding, to support 4 year-round FTE positions, operations, and necessary supplies. Vote For: Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: [Staff or board member can sign] 2 of 2