TEMPLATE FOR BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATIONS BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION (Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board) Recommendation Number: (YYYYMMDD-XXX) (XXX is the agenda item number): Support for new and existing central aggregation, processing, and distribution facilities (Food Hubs) WHEREAS, the 2022 City of Austin State of the Food System Report indicates that less than 0.6% of the food consumed in Travis County is produced locally, and that approximately 16.8 acres of farmland are lost daily to development pressures, underscoring the critical need to support regional food systems; WHERAS, schools in the Austin-Travis County region currently source a significant portion of their food from mainline distributors, who, in turn, source their products from large-scale farms located outside of Texas, contributing to long supply chains and increasing the carbon footprint of food procurement; WHEREAS, the Austin/Travis County Food Plan, approved by the Austin City Council in October 2024, includes strategic, measurable, and time-bound goals and strategies to strengthen food security, promote environmental sustainability, and address climate change; and WHEREAS, the Austin/Travis County Food Plan calls for the development and support of central aggregation, processing, and distribution facilities (food hubs) to supply regional institutional purchasers with local agricultural goods, ensuring the stability and resilience of the food system in Austin/Travis County; and WHEREAS, the Austin Climate Equity Plan emphasizes the importance of building a community-driven food system that prioritizes regenerative agriculture to achieve climate and equity goals by 2030; and WHEREAS, the Austin Climate Equity Plan calls for supporting institutions and developing supply-chain infrastructure and regional food networks to facilitate large-scale pro-climate, pro-health food procurement, supporting regenerative agricultural producers and increasing access to sustainable, healthy food options; and WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic, Winter Storm Uri, and other disruptive events have exposed vulnerabilities in long, centralized food supply chains, emphasizing the importance of resilient local food systems that prioritize local procurement, climate adaptation, and equity-driven food access; and WHEREAS, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs, in collaboration with the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA), such as the Farm to School Program and the Local Food for Schools (LFS) Program, provide funding to support local food systems and school meal programs, benefiting farmers and communities; WHEREAS, local purchasing incentives for schools, such as the Local Food for Schools (LFS) Program, remain underutilized due to insufficient local food production and regional distribution capacity to meet the demand for school markets, and small, Central Texas farmers need technical assistance to scale …
TEMPLATE FOR BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATIONS BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION (Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board) Recommendation Goal 6.1, 6.5, 6.6: • Actively establish culturally relevant, affordable, community-backed or -driven retail options in areas experiencing food insecurity or facing barriers to food access, including replication and expansion of existing food retail initiatives in the City and County • Expand benefits and access to nutritious foods through programs that amplify and supplement the purchasing power of individuals and households facing food and nutrition insecurity and explore the feasibility of creating a locally funded nutrition incentive program with less restrictive eligibility criteria than SNAP/WIC Increase utilization of publicly administered programs that improve food access, such as SNAP, WIC, the national school breakfast/lunch program, and summer food service program. • WHEREAS, food insecurity disproportionately affects vulnerable populations in Austin/Travis County, creating significant barriers to nutritious food access for individuals and households with limited resources; WHEREAS, where value multiplying programs are an effective model of extending purchasing power for nutritious foods, allowing SNAP recipients to double their spending on fruits and vegetables at local farmers markets; WHEREAS, the need for culturally relevant nutrition education and cooking skills training, can empower community members to make healthy, affordable food choices; WHEREAS, current food assistance programs often have restrictive eligibility criteria that exclude many community members experiencing economic hardship; WHEREAS, technological barriers and limited digital literacy can further complicate access to food assistance resources and online food shopping options; WHEREAS, language and disability barriers continue to create additional challenges for individuals seeking food assistance and nutrition support; WHEREAS, existing successful local programs like Double Up Food Bucks and The Happy Kitchen provide valuable frameworks for expanding food access and nutrition education; new programs can and need to be created; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board recommends the following actions: 1. Expand and Enhance Nutrition Incentive Programs: o Build upon the successful value purchasing models to create a locally funded nutrition incentive program o Develop more flexible eligibility criteria that complement existing federal/state/local assistance programs o Provide additional purchasing power for nutritious foods, particularly fresh produce and local agricultural products o Create mechanisms to support both farmers and food-insecure households 2. Strengthen Nutrition Education and Skill-Building: o Expand programs that provide culturally relevant food and cooking/nutrition education Multilingual cooking classes Nutrition education workshops Skill-building for affordable, healthy meal preparation o Develop technology-integrated education modules …
REGULAR MEETING of the ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION January 13, 2025, 6 p.m. Austin City Hall, Room 1101 301 W. 2nd St Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Animal Advisory Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Christi Vitela at christi.vitela@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-2792. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Ryan Clinton, Chair, Travis County Nancy Nemer, Travis County Lotta Smagula, D1 Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Ann Linder, Vice Chair, D3 Dr. Paige Nilson, D4 Whitney Holt, D5 Luis Herrera, D6 Larry Tucker, D7 Sarah Huddleston, D9 Laura Hoke, Mayor AGENDA ADDENDUM CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL STAFF BRIEFING 3. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Staff briefing on the draft Animal Services Office Strategic Plan 2025-2030. ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please contact Christi Vitela, Office of the City Clerk at (512) 974-2792 or christi.vitela@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Animal Advisory Commission, please contact Christi Vitela at (512) 974-2792 or christi.vitela@austintexas.gov.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ELECTRIC UTILITY COMMISSION January 13, 2025 ▪ 6:00 PM AUSTIN ENERGY HEADQUARTERS/SHUDDE FATH CONFERENCE ROOM 4815 MUELLER BLVD AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Electric Utility Commission maybe participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register contact Amy Everhart, at Amy.Everhart@AustinEnergy.com or via phone at 512-322-6087. AGENDA Members: Dave Tuttle, Chair Kaiba White, Vice Chair Ayo Akande Raul Alvarez Lauren Bellomy Cesar Benavides Jonathon Blackburn Randy Chapman Chris Kirksey Cyrus Reed Joshua Rhodes CALL MEETING TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 5 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Electric Utility Commission Regular Meeting on November 18, 2024 and approve the minutes of the Electric Utility Commission Special Called Meeting on December 2, 2024. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend approval of an ordinance amending the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Austin Energy Fund Operating Budget (Ordinance 20240814-007) by increasing transfers out to the Austin Energy Power Supply Stabilization Reserve (Ordinance 20240814-007) in the amount of $30,000,000; and amending the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Austin Energy Power Supply Stabilization Reserve Fund by increasing transfers in for the same amount. Funding is available in the Austin Energy Operating Fund balance. 3. Recommend approval authorizing a contract for vegetation management services on energized transmission lines for Austin Energy with Wright Tree Service, Inc., for an initial term of two years with up to four one-year extension options, for a total contract amount not to exceed $42,000,000. Funding: $5,250,000 is available in the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Operating Budget of Austin Energy. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. 4. Recommend approval authorizing a contract for electric meters and associated services for Austin Energy with Texas Electric Cooperatives, for an initial term of three years with up to two one-year extension options for a total contract amount not to exceed $62,000,000. Funding: $62,000,000 is available in the Capital Budget of Austin Energy. 5. Recommend approval authorizing …
..De Posting Language ..Title Approve an ordinance amending the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Austin Energy Fund Operating Budget (Ordinance 20240814-007) by increasing transfers out to the Austin Energy Power Supply Stabilization Reserve (Ordinance 20240814-007) in the amount of $30,000,000; and amending the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Austin Energy Power Supply Stabilization Reserve Fund by increasing transfers in for the same amount. Funding is available in the Austin Energy Operating Fund balance. Lead Department Austin Energy Fiscal Note A fiscal note is attached. Prior Council Action: For More Information: Rusty Maenius, Chief Financial Officer, 512-322-6133; Stuart Reilly, Deputy General Manager, 512-322-6817 Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action: January 13, 2025- To be reviewed by the Electric Utility Commission. Additional Backup Information: Austin Energy’s financial policy No. 22 requires it to maintain 90 days of net power supply cost. These funds are maintained in the Power Supply Stabilization Reserve. In 2023, due to extreme high wholesale prices in the ERCOT market, Austin Energy transferred funds from its Power Supply Stabilization Reserve to working capital to pay the increased power supply costs. Austin Energy now seeks to come into compliance with this financial policy minimum by transferring funds to the Power Supply Stabilization Reserve to return to 90 days of net power supply costs. At fiscal year-end 2024, the Power Supply Stabilization Reserve is approximately $27 million less than the 90-day minimum of $140 million. Maintaining 90 days of power supply reserves is calculated as part of, and is not separate from, Austin Energy’s overall required policy minimum of 150 days cash on hand. Austin Energy’s Power Supply Adjustment (PSA) tariff authorizes the transfer of a PSA over-recovery to the Power Supply Stabilization reserve. The PSA over-recovery balance is now sufficient to transfer funds back to the reserve. Austin Energy seeks approval of an ordinance amending the FY 2024-2025 Austin Energy Power Supply Stabilization Reserve Fund budget by increasing transfers in from the Austin Energy Operating Fund in the amount of $30,000,000 and amending the FY 2024-2025 Austin Energy Operating Budget to increase transfers to the Power Supply Stabilization Reserve Fund in the same amount in order to fund the reserve in accordance with FY 2024-2025 Austin Energy Financial Policies and as outlined in the Power Supply Adjustment tariff.
..Title Posting Language Authorize a contract for vegetation management services on energized transmission lines for Austin Energy with Wright Tree Service, Inc., for an initial term of two years with up to four one-year extension options, for a total contract amount not to exceed $42,000,000. Funding: $5,250,000 is available in the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Operating Budget of Austin Energy. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. ..Body Lead Department Financial Services Department. Client Department(s) Austin Energy. Fiscal Note Funding in the amount of $5,250,000 is available in the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Operating Budget of Austin Energy. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. Purchasing Language: The Financial Services Department issued a Request for Proposals solicitation RFP 1100 SMB3026 for these services. The solicitation was issued on July 29, 2024, and closed on August 22, 2024. Of the six offers received, the recommended contractors submitted the best evaluated responsive offers. A complete solicitation package, including a log of offers received, is available for viewing on the City’s website. This information can currently be found at https://financeonline.austintexas.gov/afo/account_services/solicitation/solicitation_details.cfm?sid=140989 . MBE/WBE: This contract will be awarded in accordance with City Code Chapter 2-9B (Minority-Owned and Women- Owned Business Enterprise Procurement Program) 0.35% combined MBE/WBE participation. For More Information: Direct questions regarding this Recommendation for Council Action to the Financial Services Department – Central Procurement at FSDCentralProcurementRCAs@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2500. Respondents to the solicitation and their Agents should direct all questions to the Authorized Contact Person identified in the solicitation. Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action: January 13, 2025 – To be reviewed by the Electric Utility Commission. Additional Backup Information: The contract will provide vegetation management services on energized transmission lines for Austin Energy. The contractor will perform services on an as needed basis for capital improvement projects; circuit, grid, and substation facilities; individual customer requests; trouble work or storm restoration events; and vegetation suppression. This work is highly specialized, and the contractor will be required to follow standard processes which include notice of work and herbicide use and follow strict safety protocols. The contractor will also work in partnership with the Austin Fire Department Wildfire Division to reduce the risk of wildfires. An evaluation team with expertise in this area evaluated the offers and scored Wright Tree Service, Inc. as the best to provide these services based on Program, Experience, …
..Body Posting Language ..Title Authorize a contract for electric meters and associated services for Austin Energy with Texas Electric Cooperatives, for an initial term of three years with up to two one-year extension options for a total contract amount not to exceed $62,000,000. Funding: $62,000,000 is available in the Capital Budget of Austin Energy. Lead Department Financial Services Department. Client Department(s) Austin Energy. Fiscal Note Funding in the amount of $62,000,000 is available in the Capital Budget of Austin Energy. Purchasing Language: The Financial Services Department issued a Request for Proposals solicitation RFP 1100 PAB3015REBID for these goods and services. The solicitation was issued on August 5, 2024, and closed on August 22, 2024. Of the four offers received, the recommended contractor submitted the best evaluated responsive offer. A complete solicitation package, including a log of offers received, is available for viewing on the City’s website. This information can currently be found at https://financeonline.austintexas.gov/afo/account_services/solicitation/solicitation_details.cfm?sid=141498 . MBE/WBE: This solicitation was reviewed for subcontracting opportunities in accordance with City Code Chapter 2-9B (Minority-Owned and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Procurement Program). For the goods and services required for this solicitation, there were insufficient subcontracting opportunities; therefore, no subcontracting goals were established. For More Information: Direct questions regarding this Recommendation for Council Action to the Financial Services Department – Central Procurement at FSDCentralProcurementRCAs@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2500. Respondents to the solicitation and their Agents should direct all questions to the Authorized Contact Person identified in the solicitation. Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action: January 13, 2025 - To be reviewed by the Electric Utility Commission. Additional Backup Information: This contract is for the purchase of commercial and residential electric meters deployed throughout Austin Energy service area on an as-needed basis. Electric meters provide the ability for Austin Energy to measure, track, and bill for energy consumption. They are also used to provide additional insights into the distribution system such as voltage levels and outage information. Additionally, the contractor will provide technical support on metering features and functionality, testing, and training on new metering software and features. The contractor will also manage the meter remediation process when meters are sent for repairs or replacement. An evaluation team with expertise in this area evaluated the offers and scored Texas Electric Cooperatives as the best to provide these services based on project concept and strategy, safety and materials, remediation program, experience, price, Local Business and Small Business Preference. The recommended …
..Body Posting Language ..Title Authorize a contract for tire repair, maintenance, and replacement services for Austin Energy with Youngblood Automotive & Tire LLC d/b/a Youngblood Auto & Tire, for an initial term of one year with up to two one-year extension options in an amount not to exceed $360,000. Funding: $120,000 is available in the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Operating Budget of Austin Energy. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. Lead Department Financial Services Department. Client Department(s) Austin Energy. Fiscal Note Funding in the amount of $120,000 is available in the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Operating Budget of Austin Energy. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. Purchasing Language: The Financial Services Department issued an Invitation for Bids solicitation IFB 1100 DPL1005REBID for these goods and services. The solicitation was issued on August 26, 2024, and closed on September 12, 2024. Of the four offers received, the recommended contractor submitted the most responsive offer. A complete solicitation package, including a tabulation of the bids received, is available for viewing on the City’s website. This information can currently be found at https://financeonline.austintexas.gov/afo/account_services/solicitation/solicitation_details.cfm?sid=141590 . MBE/WBE: This solicitation was reviewed for subcontracting opportunities in accordance with City Code Chapter 2-9B (Minority-Owned and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Procurement Program). For the goods and services required for this solicitation, there were no subcontracting opportunities; therefore, no subcontracting goals were established. For More Information: Direct questions regarding this Recommendation for Council Action to the Financial Services Department – Central Procurement at FSDCentralProcurementRCAs@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2500. Respondents to the solicitation and their Agents should direct all questions to the Authorized Contact Person identified in the solicitation. Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action: January 13, 2024 – To be reviewed by the Electric Utility Commission. Additional Backup Information: This contract will provide tire repair, maintenance, and replacement services on leased Austin Energy utility vehicles, such as aerial bucket trucks, digging trucks, and cranes. These services will reduce downtime and avoid disruption of daily operations, including outage response, maintenance, and ongoing scheduled jobs for Austin Energy customers. This recommendation is in accordance with Local Government Code 271.905 and Resolution Number 20140807-113 to invoke local preference. This local bidder is offering the best combination of contract price and additional economic development opportunities for the City created by the contract award, including the employment of residents and increased tax revenues. …
..Title Posting Language Authorize a contract for electric system design software for Austin Energy with Spatial Business Systems, LLC., for an initial term of one year with up to four one-year extension options for a total contract amount not to exceed $1,500,000. Funding: $253,000 is available in the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Operating Budget of Austin Energy. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. ..Body Lead Department Financial Services Department. Client Department(s) Austin Energy. Purchasing Language: Sole Source. Fiscal Note Funding in the amount of $253,000 is available in the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Operating Budget of Austin Energy. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. MBE/WBE: Sole source contracts are exempt from the City Code Chapter 2-9B (Minority-Owned and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Procurement Program); therefore, no subcontracting goals were established. For More Information: Direct questions regarding this Recommendation for Council Action to the Financial Services Department – Central Procurement at FSDCentralProcurementRCAs@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2500. Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action: January 13, 2025 - To be reviewed by the Electric Utility Commission. Additional Backup Information: The contract is for maintenance and support of Automated Utility Design and Utility Data Hub software applications, which are the primary design tools used by Austin Energy’s electric system distribution design teams. These applications apply Austin Energy’s design standards to drawings, cost estimates, pre- construction prints, and creating material lists for designing residential and commercial electric systems. They are capable of responding to changes in safety standards while preserving historic details for reference, important design capabilities for supporting the City’s growth. Spatial Business Systems LLC is the sole source provider of Automated Utility Design and Utility Data Hub licenses and services. The contractor does not authorize third parties to provide technical services for these solutions due to their complexity and proprietary nature, and the contractor is the sole provider of code support for integration between Automated Utility Design and Austin Energy’s Geographic Information System and Work Management System applications. Without this contract, Austin Energy would be unable to meet design goals related to project and site energization.
REGULAR MEETING of the ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL Monday, January 13th, 2025, at 6:00 PM Virtual Meeting Members of the ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL may participate by video conference. Public comment will be allowed remotely via video conference or telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for participation. To register to speak, call or email AIPP Program Manager Jaime Castillo at jaime.castillo@austintexas.gov, (512) 974-7852. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Chair – Stephanie Lemmo, Vice Chair – J Muzacz, Andrew Danziger, Taylor Davis, Bernardo Diaz, Kristi-Anne Shaer, Monica Maldonado – Arts Commission Liaison CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve minutes of the Art in Public Places Panel Regular Meeting on December 2nd, 2024. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion of Arts Commission Liaison Report on Action Items from December 19th, 2024, Arts Commissions Meeting by Arts Commission Liaison Maldonado Discussion of Mid / Concept Design for Family Violence Shelter & Protection Center Art in Public Places Project – Felipe Gomez Discussion of Update on the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) Airport Expansion & Development Program (AEDP) Phase II Art in Public Places Projects 3. 4. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. ACTION: Approve Request for Qualification for the St. John Site Redevelopment Art in Public Places Project 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. ACTION: Approve Final Design for Longhorn Dam Bridge Art in Public Places Project – Reginald Adams ACTION: Approve Final Design for Beverly Sheffield Pool Art in Public Places Project – Sun McColgin ACTION: Approve Final Design for Highland Park Art in Public Places Project – Samara Barks ACTION: Approve Final Design for South Lamar Corridor Art in Public Places Project – Wanda Montemayor ACTION: Approve the Selection Process Recommendations for the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) Airport Expansion & Development Program (AEDP) Phase I Art in Public Places Projects Art in Public Places Staff Briefing on Conservation, Current Projects, and Milestones STAFF BRIEFINGS 11. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING of the URBAN RENEWAL BOARD January 13, 2025, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1407 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR. AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 Some members of the Urban Renewal Board may be participating by videoconference and a quorum will be present at the location identified above. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Hunter Maples, (512) 974-3120 or hunter.maples@austintexas.gov. The Urban Renewal Board reserves the right to go into closed session to discuss any of the items on this agenda as permitted by the Texas Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Manuel Escobar, Chair Darrell W, Pierce, Vice Chair Amit Motwani Byron Davis Jacqueline Watson Kobla Tetey Tam Hawkins CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers who registered to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting, if speaking virtually, or who signed up prior to the meeting being called to order if speaking in person, will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Urban Renewal Board’s (URB’s) regular-called meeting on December 16, 2024 1 of 2 2. 3. 4. 5. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion related to resident concerns regarding the 1500 block of East 12th Street Discussion related to updates on future development of Blocks 16 & 18 from Rally Austin, including project status and anticipated timeline (Anne Gatling Haynes, Rally Austin) DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS EXECUTIVE SESSION Discuss legal matters related to the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of an interest in Blocks 16 and 18 located on East 11th Street in Austin (Private consultation with legal counsel - Section 551.071 of the Texas Government Code) Discuss real estate matters related to the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of an interest in Blocks 16 and 18 located on East 11th Street in Austin (Real Property - Section 551.072 of the Texas Government Code) FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities …
DRAFT MINUTES URBAN RENEWAL BOARD December 16, 2024, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1401/1402 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR. AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 Jacqueline Watson Kobla Tetey Tam Hawkins CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Manuel Escobar, Chair Darrell W, Pierce, Vice Chair Amit Motwani Byron Davis Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Manuel Escobar, Vice Chair Darrell W. Pierce and Commissioners Jacqueline Watson, Amit Motwani, Byron Davis. Commissioner Kobla Tetey arrived at 6:15 pm. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Commissioner Amit Motwani attended remotely. Board Members Absent/off the dais at call to order: Commissioner Tam Hawkins was absent. Commissioner Kobla Tetey off the dais at call to order. CALL TO ORDER Chair Escobar, called the meeting to order at 6:10 pm. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers who registered to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting, if speaking virtually, or who signed up prior to the meeting being called to order if speaking in person, will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. Will Campos, Eureka addressed the URB about item number three. 1 of 3 2. 3. 4. 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Urban Renewal Board’s (URB’s) regular-called meeting on November 18, 2024 On Commissioner Watson’s motion, Commissioner Davis’s second, the November 18, 2024, minutes were approved on a 5-0-0 vote, Commissioner Kobla Tetey was off the dais. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion related to updates on future development of Blocks 16 & 18 from Rally Austin, including project status and anticipated timeline (Anne Gatling Haynes, Rally Austin) Anne Gatling Haynes, Rally Austin provided updates. Discussion related to resident concerns regarding the 1500 block of East 12th Street Will Campos, Eureka provided updates. URB requested Liaison to contact resident via email to provide update. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and Approval to write a letter of support for historic zoning at 1500 E. 12th Street (JuanRaymon Rubio) Chair Escobar requested Liaison contact someone to speak on the item in January’s meeting. EXECUTIVE SESSION Chair Escobar recessed the regular meeting and called the Executive Session to order at 6:36 pm. Discuss legal matters related to the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of an interest in Blocks 16 and 18 located on East 11th Street in Austin (Private consultation with legal counsel - Section 551.071 of the Texas Government Code) 2 of 3 6. Discuss real …
REGULAR MEETING of the BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT January 13, 2025 AT 5:30PM Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required email for elaine.ramirez@austintexas.gov or call 512-974-2202. remote participation by telephone. To remotely, register speak to ___ Bianca A Medina-Leal ___ Brian Poteet ___ Margaret Shahrestani ___ Janel Venzant ___ Michael Von Ohlen ___ Suzanne Valentine (Alternate) CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: ___Jessica Cohen (Chair) ___Melissa Hawthorne (Vice-Chair) ___Thomas Ates ___Jeffery Bowen ___Marcel Gutierrez-Garza ___Yung-ju Kim The Board of Adjustment may go into closed session to receive advice from legal counsel regarding any item on this agenda (Private consultation with legal counsel – Section 551.071 of the Texas Government Code). AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first (4) four speakers signed up/register prior (no later than noon the day before the meeting) to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Board of Adjustment Special Called meeting on December 9, 2024. On-Line Link: Draft Minutes for December 9, 2024 PUBLIC HEARINGS Discussion and action on the following cases. Previous Postponed Sign Variance cases: 2. C16-2024-0001 Michael Everett for Rowdy Durham 6320 Ed Bluestein Boulevard SB (B) (2) (a) to exceed sign area from 104.65 square feet to 314.86 square feet (B) (3) (a) to exceed sign height of 35 feet (maximum allowed) to 60 feet On-Line Link: ITEM02 ADV PACKET; PRESENTATION The applicant is requesting a sign variance(s) from the Land Development Code, Section 25-10-123 (Expressway Corridor Sign District Regulations): (requested) for a Freestanding sign in order to provide signage for a McDonald’s in a “GR-MU-CO-NP”, Community Commercial – Mixed Use – Conditional Overlay - Neighborhood Plan zoning district. (University Hills Neighborhood Plan), Expressway Corridor Sign District. Note: The Land Development Code Sign Regulations 25-10-123 Expressway Corridor Sign Regulations (A) This section applies to an expressway corridor sign district. (B) …
REGULAR MEETING of the LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION Monday, January 13, 2025, at 6:30 P.M. City of Austin Permitting and Development Center, Room 1401 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr., Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Ryan Sperling, Office of the City Clerk, at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Commissioner Appointment Kitty McLeod Katie Coyne VACANT Brigitte Bandit Jerome Benson VACANT J. Scott Neal, Chair District 1 District 2 District 3 District 4 District 5 District 6 District 7 Taylor Trevino Stakeholder Commissioner Garry Brown Mariana Krueger Brandon Wollerson Rocío Fierro-Pérez Morgan Davis Alexander Andersen KB Brookins Appointment District 8 District 9 District 10 Mayor Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 2024 AGENDA Page 1 of 4 1. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission's regular meeting on December 9, DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. Presentation regarding the upcoming Texas Legislature Session and potential draft bills pertaining to the LGBTQ+ Community. Presentation by Equality Texas. 2. Presentation regarding the status of the transgender community in Austin Presentation by Landon Richie, Policy Coordinator, Transgender Education Network of Texas (TENT). 3. Presentation regarding the state of the transgender youth community in Austin. Presentation by Jaryn Holbrook Janeway, Director, OutYouth. 4. Presentation regarding Austin’s LGBTQIA+ healthcare outlook. Presentation by Christopher Hamilton, Texas 5. Discussion on ways in which commissioners may assist members of the LGBTQIA+ community with U.S. Health Action. Passport applications. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Discussion and possible action to create a working group to monitor the upcoming Texas Legislative Session and provide a report on what LGBTQIA+ related laws have been passed. 7. Discussion and possible action to create a working group to form a comprehensive resource packet for transgender and gender-expansive Austin residents needing related resources. 8. Discussion and approval of a statement reaffirming the commission’s solidarity with and support of the LGBTQIA+ Community in Austin. 9. Discussion and possible action authorizing a commissioner to speak to media representatives regarding the commission’s interests and perspectives …
LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2024 The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, December 9, 2024, at 7:00 PM at the City of Austin Permitting and Development Center, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr., Austin, Texas, 78752, Room #1401/1402. Commissioners in attendance in person: Jerry Joe Benson, Morgan Davis, David Garza, KB Brookins, Kitty McLeod, Garry Brown, Mariana Krueger, Brandon Wollerson Commissioners in attendance remotely: Alexander Andersen, Katie Coyne, Brigitte Bandit Vice Chair Benson called the meeting to order at 7:04 PM. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission's regular meeting on November 4, 2024 The minutes were approved on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Commissioner Garza’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioners Fierro-Pérez and Neal were absent. 2. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission’s regular meeting on January 9, 2023. The minutes were approved on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Commissioner Garza’s second on an 11-0 vote with the below amendments. Commissioners Fierro-Pérez and Neal were absent. Amended to substitute “2022” with “2023”. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion on the upcoming Texas Legislature Session and its expected draft bills pertaining to the LGBTQIA+ and performing arts communities Presentation provided by Miriam Laeky, Government Affairs Director, Equality Texas. Discussion was held. 4. Discussion on public safety needs for the LGBTQIA+ community in Austin, especially with regards to fear of physical violence, and the ways in which the City and Austin Police Department may be able to address them. Discussion was held. 5. Discussion of last month’s presentation by City Manager T.C. Broadnax, including lessons learned and potential follow-up questions. Discussion was held. Page 1 of 4 6. Discussion on planning the Austin LGBTQIA+ Community Center Updates and Input Session Town Hall, including its agenda, format, and whether this will be a commission meeting or a working group event. Discussion was held. 7. Discussion of coordination with City departments that may be interested in hosting a job/resource fair or vaccine clinic before the Austin LGBTQIA+ Community Center Updates and Input Session Town Hall. Discussion was held. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 8. Discussion and possible action on authorizing commissioners to make social media posts advertising the January commission meeting and Austin LGBTQIA+ Community Center Updates and Input Town Hall, including inviting certain demographic groups. Discussion was held. No …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Austin Travis County Food Policy Board Recommendation Number: (YYYYMMDD-XXX) (XXX is the agenda item number): Support for community agriculture on City park land WHEREAS, the Austin/Travis County Food Plan was approved by City Council in October 2024; and WHEREAS, Goal 1 of the Food Plan is to expand community food production, preserve agricultural lands, and increase the amount of farmland dedicated to regenerative food production long-term in Austin/Travis County; and WHEREAS, the John Treviño Jr. Metropolitan Park Vision Plan was adopted by the Austin City Council on October 15, 2020 with one of the defined values to adapt the heritage of the site by carrying the site’s productive agricultural heritage into the present and future by exploring possibilities for food production and agricultural education, and includes “The Farm” in the design of the park to to connect local food production and education with opportunities for multi-generational participation; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin already has a Community Gardens Program (started in 2009 when the Austin City Council passed the Urban Farm Ordinance) to establish a single point of contact and streamline the process for establishing community gardens on city land; and WHEREAS, the Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board’s Recommendation Number 20240318-7 urged the City of Austin to allocate funds and create a full-time equivalent (FTE) position to support the implementation of the Food Plan; and WHEREAS, the Austin Climate Equity Plan aims to protect 500,000 acres of farmland across the five- county region through legal conservation or regenerative agriculture programs by 2030; and WHEREAS, community agriculture on City park land provides vital opportunities for community-based food access, culturally-relevant food production, community-led food access solutions, emergency preparedness, climate resilience. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Austin Travis County Food Policy Board encourages the Austin City Council to fully fund City park plans that include strategies to support community agriculture and include financial support for staff or an external entity to implement community agriculture programs in these locations and distribute food grown to surrounding communities, including full funding for the implementation of the Vision Plan at John Treviño Jr Metropolitan Park Commented [1]: Was 2009 the first time that Parks dedicated staff/time to community gardens? BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board encourages the Austin City Council to allocate funds and explore all available means in order to establish a dedicated management mechanism, such as …
Strategic Planning Update to Animal Advisory Commission Susana Carbajal, Assistant City Manager Don Bland, Chief Animal Services Officer Audrey Muntz, Budget and Performance Manager January 13, 2025 Strategic Planning Team & Working Group PLANNING TEAM • Responsible for coordination of the strategic planning process, including managing timelines, selecting Working Group members, and plan refinement. Included representatives from ASO staff, Animal Advisory Commission, City Manager’s Office, and Travis County WORKING GROUP • Responsible for using feedback and information gathered from stakeholders, along with their expertise in animal welfare, to collaboratively develop the strategic plan during a series of workshops facilitated by the external consultant • Included Planning Team, a community advocate and representatives from: 2 o ASO staff o ASO volunteers o Animal Advisory Commission o Austin Humane Society o Austin Lost and Found o Austin Pets Alive o City Manager’s Office o Classic Canines o Emancipet o TRAPRS Trapping, Rescue and Pet Recovery Service o Travis County 2 Strategic Planning Process Overview Purpose: To map out the strategic planning process. External consultant Dr. Larry Schooler hired Planning Team and Working Group members identified STRATEGIC PLAN PREPARATION Apr to Jun 2024 PHASE 1: ASSESSMENT Jun to Aug 2024 PHASE 2: STRATEGIC PLAN FRAMEWORK DEVELOPMENT Aug 2024 to Jan 2025 PHASE 3: STRATEGIC PLAN FINALIZATION Jan to Mar 2025 Purpose: To understand ASO's current state and gather feedback from stakeholders, including staff, volunteers, partners, and the community to ensure the strategic plan is responsive to the needs, priorities, and aspirations of stakeholders. Purpose: To create a strategic plan that addresses audit findings, fulfills ASO’s mission, and effectively balances stakeholder needs and aspirations while building trust among Working Group members. Purpose: To share, finalize, and adopt the strategic plan. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Conducted a community survey with 2,041 participants Held four listening sessions with 40 ASO volunteers Held nine listening sessions with 94 ASO staff members Interviewed 10 ASO leadership team members Interviewed 11 community partners Reviewed prior audits, reports, and surveys Benchmarked similar animal welfare organizations Compiled two comprehensive reports of survey and listening session findings Held five initial workshops with the Working Group Shared draft focus areas and goals with stakeholders Held staff town hall to gather feedback on draft framework Conducted community survey to gather feedback on draft framework Feedback shared with …
January 6, 2025 Board of Adjustment City of Austin Via Electronic Delivery Re: C15-2024-0031 – 2615-1/2 Hillview Road – Rawson Saunders School Dear Chair and Board Members, On behalf of Austin Area School for Dyslexics, also known as Rawson Saunders School, we request a postponement of the public hearing for this case to the February 10th, 2025 hearing date. Please contact our office should you have questions or need additional information. Thank you for your time and attention to these applications. Kind regards, Victoria Haase www.throwerdesign.com P . O . B O X 4 1 9 5 7 , A U S T I N , T E X A S 7 8 7 0 4 1 5 0 7 I N G L E W O O D S T . , A U S T I N , T E X A S 7 8 7 4 1 ITEM04/1-LATE BACKUPITEM04/1-LATE BACKUP
ITEM05/1-LATE BACKUP-PPMT REQ Subject: RE: 1/13 BOA_C15-2024-0040_600 Cumberland Rd, 2610 & 2612 S 1st Street Virtual Registration Date: Monday, January 6, 2025 at 4:03 PM To: Leah Bojo Got it…I will change it to back up virtual registration Elaine Ramirez Planner Senior Board of Adjustment Liaison Development Services Department 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Austin, TX 78752 Office: 512-974-2202 E-mail: elaine.ramirez@austintexas.gov DevelopmentATX.com PER CITY ORDINANCE: All individuals scheduling or accepting a meeting invitation with a City Official are requested to provide responses to the questions at the following link: DSD Visitor Log. Please note that all information provided is subject to public disclosure via DSD’s open data portal. For more information please visit: City of Austin Ordinance 2016-0922-005 | City Clerk’s website | City Clerk’s FAQ’s DSD Customer Service Feedback Form - Formstack From: Leah Bojo Sent: Monday, January 6, 2025 2:57 PM To: Ramirez, Elaine <Elaine.Ramirez@austintexas.gov>; Katie Gengler Subject: Re: 1/13 BOA_C15-2024-0040_600 Cumberland Rd, 2610 & 2612 S 1st Street Virtual Registration External Email - Exercise Caution ITEM05/2-LATE BACKUP-PPMT REQ Hi Elaine, I’ll be in person – thank you! Leah M. Bojo, AICP, Director of Land Use & Entitlements 2705 Bee Caves Road, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78746 Drenner Group, PC | From: Ramirez, Elaine <Elaine.Ramirez@austintexas.gov> Date: Monday, January 6, 2025 at 3:48 PM To: Katie Gengler < Subject: RE: 1/13 BOA_C15-2024-0040_600 Cumberland Rd, 2610 & 2612 S 1st Street Virtual Registration Hi Katie, I have Leah Bojo, registered as the Primary Speaker for case C15-2024-0040 / 600 Cumberland Rd, 2610 & 2612 S 1st St., speaking virtual. Please note: You will a total maximum of 5 minutes to speak/give presentation for the above referenced case. If you are registered to speak virtually, you will receive an e-mail from me Monday, 1/13 before 12p.m., with call in information for our virtual BOA mtg. You will be available via phone only and only the registered speakers will receive the call-in information (do not share the call-in phone number with anyone who has not registered to speak virtually). Once the Board has made the decision of Granting, Denying or Postponing the variance you all can disconnect from the call. Please keep in mind that if you are not the Primary Speaker the Board may or may not call on you. The Primary Speaker gets a total of 5 minutes to speak for each case(s). If the Board has questions, they can call …
