Hutto DEIB commission to launch citizen working groups; library to help with outreach

HUTTO, Texas — The city’s DEIB (diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging) commission is launching three citizen working groups, and Hutto Public Library staff told the Library Advisory Board on Nov. 3 that the library will help recruit and provide outreach support.

Morgan, a meeting chair, reported she had worked with Karina/Corina to identify a seniors working group as a good starting point; the library pledged to provide a calendar of senior events to the commission for outreach. Library staff said the City’s website now lists three working groups (veterans, small business and seniors) and that the web page includes an interest form and a short description of member expectations.

The staff read the City’s description of the working groups during the meeting, saying the groups will “give a voice to your community, share experiences, needs, and ideas” and “advise the DEIB commission and city council.” The staff member said the City will provide a 90–120 minute orientation and that working‑group members should expect a time commitment described on the site as 4–8 hours per month, with meetings at least every other month plus special events.

Board members asked whether membership is limited to residents inside the city limits or whether the extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) is included; the staff said the city page lists the groups as “open to all residents” and that she would ask Christy Barnes for clarification. On eligibility for the veterans working group, staff said the City’s language allows people who identify with the group or allies who care about the issues to participate; it does not require service-member status.

Library staff said they will include information about the working groups in follow‑up emails and outreach materials and urged board members to identify potential candidates in their networks. Several board members suggested clarifying the 4–8 hour monthly commitment and room/capacity expectations for working groups; staff said she would request those details from Christy Barnes, who helps facilitate the DEIB commission.