Posting Language
Title
Authorize negotiation and execution of a Fourth Amendment to the Lease Agreement with Minorities for Equality in Economy, Education, Liberty, and Justice, Inc., a Texas non-profit corporation, on behalf of Austin Public Health, for approximately 738 square feet of City-owned office space located at 403 ½ East 15th Street, Austin, Texas 78701, for a term of five years, with one 5-year option to extend, for an annual lease rate of $100. Funding: This item is projected to result in revenue of $100 in the Operating Budget of Austin Public Health.
De
Lead Department
Austin Financial Services.
Fiscal Note
This item is projected to result revenue of $100 in the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Operating Budget of Austin Public Health.
Prior Council Action:
September 1, 2022 - Council approved the Third Amendment to the Lease Agreement with Minorities for Equality in Economy, Education, Liberty and Justice, Inc.
For More Information:
Brandon Williamson, Austin Financial Services, 512-974-5666; Michael Gates, Austin Financial Services, 512-974-5639; Adrienne Sturrup, Austin Public Health, 512-972-5012.
Additional Backup Information:
Minorities for Equality in Economy, Education, Liberty, and Justice, Inc., a Texas non-profit corporation d/b/a MELJ, has operated out of the Hauke House, located at 403 ½ East 15th Street, since 2014. The Hauke House has been used primarily as MELJ’s main point of operations for the organization.
MELJ provides opportunities for at-risk youth and formerly incarcerated persons, regardless of educational and/or criminal background. MELJ helps at-risk youth and formerly incarcerated persons redirect, restore, and reconnect as responsible and employable members of society. MELJ also helps build sustainable support systems by aiding the families affected by the criminal justice system.
This Fourth Amendment would extend MELJ’s occupancy by five years, to October 31, 2031, with one additional 5-year renewal option, and allow MELJ to continue to assist at-risk youth, formerly incarcerated persons, and their family members with continuing education, housing assistance, and mental health assistance and care access. Under the agreement, in lieu of rent, MELJ will be required to meet the following Performance Measures each year:
• A minimum of 20 individuals who do not re-enter the criminal justice system after a period of 6 months from the time of program entry.
• 67% of individuals progressing in their treatment plan.
• A minimum of 48 Unduplicated Clients Served in a 12-Month Period.
The Strategic Facilities Governance Team has reviewed and approved this request.