The Housing and Planning Committee of Austin convened on September 5, 2024, to discuss critical updates regarding the Downtown Austin Plan (DAP) and initiatives aimed at enhancing affordable housing for seniors. The meeting featured both remote and in-person speakers, highlighting the importance of these topics to the community.

Matt Geske, Vice President of Public Affairs for the Downtown Austin Alliance, emphasized the necessity of updating the DAP, which has not been revised in 15 years. He pointed out that the downtown area has undergone significant changes, necessitating a plan that aligns with current realities and future needs. Geske stressed the importance of a dedicated implementation team to address challenges such as affordability, cultural preservation, and infrastructure improvements.

Maggie De La Teja spoke in favor of a resolution supporting limited equity housing for seniors, advocating for a model that promotes affordability and dignity within a community setting. She highlighted the collaborative nature of such housing, which allows seniors to maintain independence while fostering a supportive environment.

Kimberly Levinson, a member of the Downtown Commission, echoed the call for an updated DAP, noting that downtown serves as Austin's economic engine. She urged the committee to allocate resources for a consultant and to reinstate a downtown officer position to oversee the various development and transportation projects currently in progress.

Other speakers, including Dallas Richard and Annalise Lottman, reinforced the need for innovative approaches to senior housing, particularly cooperative models that enable seniors to build equity and remain engaged in their communities.

The committee acknowledged the significance of these discussions, with members expressing their commitment to addressing the evolving needs of Austin's downtown and its senior population. The meeting concluded with a note of appreciation for a visiting guest from Ohio, underscoring the collaborative spirit of municipal governance.