Gabriel Arellano, who led discussion of a proposed Austin disability festival, told the Austin Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities that organizers are aiming for an October event timed with National Disability Employment Awareness Month but would also recognize the ADA’s anniversary during activities.

“I'm thinking about a place where this festival can be held ... right over the property across the way by the Long Center,” Gabriel said, describing a visible downtown location near City Hall that could host indoor and outdoor elements.

Ron Lucey, executive director of the Texas Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities, said that his state committee will hold a quarterly meeting in Austin and invited the mayor’s committee to present at that meeting. He recommended sharing model ordinance language and best practices — especially on micro-mobility policies — so other cities need not “pay for the same good idea more than once.” Melinda Crockham, outreach coordinator for the governor’s committee, left proclamations for Fair Housing Month and Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month with the committee.

Former committee chair Ron Lucey (speaker later identified as the former chair) and other long-serving members urged organizers to recruit associate or ex officio partners — for example, service organizations and employers — to bring volunteers, facilities and sponsorships. The committee discussed potential partners, including Goodwill Industries, Easterseals Central Texas and the National Federation of the Blind chapter, and proposed reaching out to Austin City Council members for sponsorship.

Committee members voted to form a working group to develop event priorities and outreach; staff said the working group will be placed on the May agenda to formalize membership and the planning timeline. Members discussed fundraising constraints and suggested exploring whether the committee can accept donations or whether a supporting nonprofit would be necessary to manage sponsorship funds.

No final date or budget was adopted at the April meeting; committee members asked organizers to report back with a subcommittee proposal, prospective partners and sponsorship needs.