A provider representative told the committee that the University of North Texas and the Texas Workforce Commission awarded a $12,700,000 grant for a research project aimed at agencies that historically pay subminimum wages. The speaker said their agency was one of four selected to participate, along with providers in Amarillo, Houston and San Antonio.

The speaker described the grant as a research‑based effort to develop training and pathways for agencies and employers to hire people with disabilities at wages above subminimum standards. They said the project runs into a third year and will continue for roughly another two and a half years and will produce a pathway other providers can use.

The speaker also invited committee members to a community event called “Light It in Blue” on April 2 at the PAC (former civic center) and said they would send an invitation to Public Health staff. No formal city action was recorded regarding the grant or the event.

Committee members asked for the invitation and additional materials; staff said they would circulate details when received.