Posting Language
Title
Approve an ordinance amending the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Austin Public Health Department Operating Budget Special Revenue Fund (Ordinance No. 20250813-005) to accept and appropriate an additional $159,006 in grant funding from the State of Texas, Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division for the Go ATX Youth Project. Funding: $400,005.44 is available from the State of Texas, Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division. A City funding match is not required.
De
Lead Department
Austin Public Health.
Fiscal Note
Funding in the amount of $400,005.44 is available from the State of Texas, Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division, Truancy Prevention Grant Program for the project period of September 1, 2025 to August 31, 2026. Grant award received on November 7, 2025, with an award approval due within 45 days. A City funding match is not required.
Prior Council Action:
April 24, 2025 - Council approved Resolution No. 20250424-111 authorizing the acceptance of the State of Texas, Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division, Truancy Prevention grant in the amount of $114,527.00, on an 11-0 vote.
July 20, 2023 - Council approved Resolution No. 20230720-104 authorizing the acceptance of the State of Texas, Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division, Truancy Prevention grant in the amount of $401,937.98 which approved acceptance of grant funds for this project on an 11-0 vote.
July 20, 2023 - Council approved Ordinance No. 20230720-103, which approved acceptance and appropriation of the State of Texas, Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division, Truancy Prevention grant in the amount of $401,937.98 which approved acceptance of grant funds for this project on an 11-0 vote.
For More Information:
Adrienne Sturrup, Director, 512-972-5010; Donna Sundstrom, Assistant Director 512-972-5038; Derrick McKnight, Program Manager II; 512-972-4785 Juanita Jackson, Business Process Consultant, 512-972-6163.
Additional Backup Information:
The goal of the Austin Public Health Austin Youth Development (AYD) program is to provide employment services to youth ages 17-22. Youth are considered full-time, temporary employees and are encouraged to participate in training and education programs, such as GED or diploma programs, tutoring, and educational career guidance. In addition, there is a mentoring component which includes appropriate behavior, social skills, interview skills, and career and life goal setting.
The Go ATX Youth Project serves as a preventative measure for youth and young adults at risk of not receiving high school credit due to poor attendance. Staff go to the schools one to two times a week to deliver career development and life skills to students. The staff utilizes the 40 Developmental Assets Framework, a nationally recognized curriculum promoting youth leadership and relationship development, to educate youth on self-worth, critical thinking, and future planning.
In Fiscal Year 2025-2026, the Go ATX Youth Project will ultimately serve over 350 youth in three different focus areas: the in-school sessions at Austin high schools, the Teen Programs at parks and recreation centers, and through summer internships, apprenticeships, trade work opportunities, and various certifications. The project collaborates with professionals from around the Austin area, exposing youth to various career paths. To this end, the Go ATX Youth Project is a safe and restorative measure to assist youth in making positive choices.
This action will add $159,006 to the existing fund. The General Fund will not be required to contribute additional funds beyond those currently budgeted to this grant. When the grant funds expire, the Austin Public Health Department's need for continued funding will be evaluated and may be denied.