Resource Management Commission 2nd Quarter Report FY24 Water Conservation Division City of Austin | Austin Water Residential, Multifamily and Commercial Program Participation RMC Quarterly Report – Q2, Fiscal Year 2024 Water Waste/Watering Restrictions Enforcement Activity RMC Quarterly Report – Q2, Fiscal Year 2024 Regulated Compliance Program Activity % Compliant % Non-Compliant 14.1% 16.4% 85.9% 83.6% 34.8% 65.2% C O M M E R C I A L F A C I L I T Y I R R I G A T I O N A S S E S S M E N T S C O M M E R C I A L V E H I C L E W A S H F A C I L I T Y E F F I C I E N C Y A S S E S S M E N T C O O L I N G T O W E R E F F I C I E N C Y A S S E S S M E N T S RMC Quarterly Report – Q2, Fiscal Year 2024 Water Conservation Public Outreach Events RMC Quarterly Report – Q2, Fiscal Year 2024 My ATX Water Meter (AMI) Installations, FY24 YTD 180,000 160,000 140,000 120,000 100,000 80,000 60,000 40,000 20,000 0 Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Quarterly Installations Overall Installations RMC Quarterly Report – Q2, Fiscal Year 2024 Multi-Year Daily Treated Pumpage D G M , e g a s U 190 170 150 130 110 90 70 50 n.............................. a J b............................ e F r.............................. a M 2011 (Dry) 2015 (Wet) 2023 2024 RMC Quarterly Report – Q2, Fiscal Year 2024 Lakes Buchanan and Travis Total Combined Storage Projections City of Austin Drought Contingency Plan Drought Response Stage Triggers: Conservation Stage: Above 1.4 MAF Stage I: 1.4 MAF Stage II: 900,000 AF Stage III: 750,000 AF Stage IV: 600,000 AF Emergency Response Stage V: Catastrophic event including prolonged drought Highland Lakes Storage summary as of May 10, 2024 Combined lake storage: 970,265 acre-feet Combined reservoir total: 49% RMC Monthly Report – Q2 Fiscal Year 2024 Water Conservation Division City of Austin | Austin Water
A review of Austin Energy solar & battery deployment policies, with improvements identified Part 1: The impact of “Value of Solar” on Solar and Battery deployment and use D. SASARIDIS 21 MAY 2024 Content • Problem Statement • Goal • Definitions and Concepts • Value of Solar • Batteries • Solutions Problem Statement Given the importance of swiftly deploying solar and batteries, at scale, in the mission to slow climate change, as is consistent with the Austin Energy Resource, Generation and Climate Protection Plan : Let’s review Austin Energy policy for effectiveness in encouraging deployment and use of these technologies. Goal of this presentation The goal of this presentation, today – is to introduce this work, achieve a common understanding through questions, allow for self study, and allow for challenges to the assumptions and conclusions. Climate Change & The Importance of Solar and batteries Though the applications which lead to CO2 emissions vary widely - ~75% of emissions can be turned off by the availability of carbon-free energy. Source: https://ourworldindata.org/ghg-emissions-by-sector Solar and batteries are the fundamental building blocks of a carbon-free energy present. Solar without batteries More solar power is available than is needed during the day, not enough at night. Note: Solar power data from PVWatts, demand is representative. Plot for illustration purposes. Charge Discharge Solar less than demand? Batteries don’t get used (simplifying a bit). Charge Discharge Excess daytime solar? Batteries charge, then discharge. Charge Charge Discharge Discharge Charge Discharge Key point: The answer to too much mid-day solar is not less solar, it’s more batteries! With enough solar, charge from yesterday gets used in the morning. Definition: Value of Solar Let U be the power measured by the utility meter. Let S be the power measured by the solar meter. Let T be the total power, used by the home, including from the solar panels on this house, and the grid, T = U + S. U is also the net power used by the home, i.e. if U = 0, this is a “net zero” home that is powered by solar panels only. Note that the utility knows U and S, and must add them together to get T, the total power used by that home. Austin Energy uses Value of Solar, and charges the customer for T, using the tier-based rate structure, and pays the customer for S, at a fixed rate of about 9.91 …
Resource Management Commission Resolution to Repurpose GreenChoice Revenues and Increase Dispatchable Renewable Energy DRAFT WHEREAS, the City of Austin aspires to run its municipal electric utility, Austin Energy, completely with carbon-free electricity by 2035; and WHEREAS, a grid based largely on carbon-free energy cannot be realistically accomplished in Texas without energy storage or dispatchable renewable energy sources; and WHEREAS, Austin Energy has done very little to date to adopt energy storage or dispatchable energy into its future plans; and WHEREAS, GreenChoice, a program originally designed to enhance adoption of renewable energy by charging customers a different rate, is no longer necessary to increase Austin’s use of renewable energy; and WHEREAS, GreenChoice, when properly operating, collects about $7 million in increased revenues that can be repurposed to help transition Austin Energy to a completely carbon-free utility; and WHEREAS, GreenChoice funds can be leveraged with other funding in the public and private sector to magnify its spending power; THEN BE IT RESOLVED that the Resource Management Commission advise the Austin City Council to repurpose revenues from Austin Energy’s GreenChoice program, leveraging the program’s revenue with grants and investments from other governments and non-profits, public and private electric utilities, and the private sector to fund energy storage and dispatchable renewables; and AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Commission recommend that Council direct Austin Energy to explore other strategies and funding sources as well as GreenChoice revenues in furtherance of the goal of adding more renewable dispatchability to its system.
A review of Austin Energy solar & battery deployment policies, with improvements identified Part 1: The impact of “Value of Solar” on Solar and Battery deployment and use D. SASARIDIS 21 MAY 2024 Content • Problem Statement • Goal • Definitions and Concepts • Value of Solar • Batteries • What’s Next Problem Statement Given the importance of swiftly deploying solar and batteries, at scale, in the mission to slow climate change, as is consistent with the Austin Energy Resource, Generation and Climate Protection Plan : Let’s review Austin Energy policy for effectiveness in meeting these goals. Key question of Part 1: Is Value of Solar, as a policy, consistent with these goals? The goal of this presentation, today – is to introduce this work, achieve a common understanding through questions, allow for self study, and allow for challenges to the assumptions and conclusions. Climate Change & The Importance of Solar and batteries Though the applications which lead to CO2 emissions vary widely - ~75% of emissions can be turned off by the availability of carbon-free energy. Source: https://ourworldindata.org/ghg-emissions-by-sector Solar and batteries are the fundamental building blocks of a carbon-free energy present. Solar without batteries More solar power is available than is needed during the day, not enough at night. Note: Solar power data from PVWatts, demand is representative. Plot for illustration purposes. Charge Discharge Solar less than demand? Batteries don’t get used (simplifying a bit). Charge Discharge Excess daytime solar? Batteries charge, then discharge. Charge Charge Discharge Discharge Charge Discharge Key point: The answer to too much mid-day solar is not less solar, it’s more batteries! With enough solar, charge from yesterday gets used in the morning. Definition: Value of Solar Let U be the power measured by the utility meter. Let S be the power measured by the solar meter. Let T be the total power, used by the home, including from the solar panels on this house, and the grid, T = U + S. U is also the net power used by the home, i.e. if U = 0, this is a “net zero” home that is powered by solar panels only. Note that the utility knows U and S, and must add them together to get T, the total power used by that home. Austin Energy uses Value of Solar, and charges the customer for T, using the tier-based rate structure, and pays the customer …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Resource Management Commission Recommendation No. 20240521-003 Resolution to Amend the Resource Management Commission Bylaws WHEREAS, in July of 2023, the Resource Management Commission passed a resolution asking for the Austin City Council to expand its purview to advise Council on issues concerning gas utilities operating in the city, including gas company rate cases, gas company franchises; and gas-related environmental or consumer issues; and WHEREAS, no proposed amendments for the Commission’s bylaws were forwarded for the Austin City Council Audit and Finance Committee to consider; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Resource Management Commission forward the attached bylaw amendments to the Council Audit and Finance Committee for review. Commissioner Louis Stone, Chair; Commissioner Paul Robbins, Vice Chair; Commissioner Charlotte Davis; Commissioner Trey Farmer; Commissioner Shane Johnson; Commissioner Chelsey Scaffidi; Commissioner Alison Silverstein Vote: 8-0 For: Against: None Abstentions: None Off Dais: None Absences: Commissioner GeNell Gary Vacancies: District 2 and Mayor’s Office Attest: Natasha Goodwin, Staff Liaison Proposed Resource Management Commission Bylaw Changes BYLAWS OF THE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION ARTICLE 2. PURPOSE AND DUTIES. The purpose of the commission is to: (A) Maintain an overview of all programs, studies and proposals concerning the efficient use of energy, alternate energy technologies, renewable energy resources, including solar and wind, and the conservation of energy, excluding the use of conventional coal, nuclear, natural gas, or petroleum technologies. (B) Serve as a liaison with other city commissions and commissions, including the Electric Utility Commission. (C) Receive public input on alternate energy technologies, renewable energy sources, and on energy conservation. (D) Review and analyze: (1) energy conservation technologies and renewable energy sources as to their short-term and long-term feasibility in the city; (2) energy conservation policies, alternate energy technologies, and renewable energy projects in other cities and states; (3) water conservation policies, alternate technologies, and water conservation projects in other cities and states; and (4) the City Code to identify potential amendments that encourage the use of alternate energy technologies and renewable energy sources, and the conservation of energy. (5) issues concerning natural gas utilities in Austin, including fair and equitable rates and bills, energy efficiency and renewable energy programs, environmental issues related to utility system operation, assistance to low-income customers, progress on the City of Austin’s Climate Equity Plan, and franchise negotiations. (E) Advise the city council: (1) in the developing and reviewing city plans and programs in the area of alternate …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Resource Management Commission Recommendation No. 20240521-004 Resolution on the Joint Sustainability Committee Environmental Investment Plan Recommendations WHEREAS, the Joint Sustainability Committee Recommendation No. 20240430-002 outlines various investments needed to achieve the many aggressive goals of the City’s Climate Equity Plan and other City environmental plans; and WHEREAS, several of these investment recommendations concern alternative energy technologies, renewable energy, and energy and water conservation; and WHEREAS, additional investments in energy efficiency, demand response, local solar, batteries and coal retirement are needed to meet the carbon-free by 2035 goal in the Austin Energy Resource Generation and Climate Protection Plan and the greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals in the Austin Climate Equity Plan; and WHEREAS, decarbonizing city buildings and improving water conservation will also yield greenhouse gas reductions and other co-benefits and aligns with the Water Forward plan, NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT The Resource Management Commission recommends that the City Council pursue funding opportunities for the following programs as recommended by the Joint Sustainability Committee for the City’s Environmental Investment Plan: 1. Expand Austin Energy’s energy efficiency programs More investment is needed to improve building envelopes, attic insulation, air sealing, and install efficient heat pumps for heating and cooling and hot water production, as well as LED lighting and other energy efficiency appliances. Increase funding for existing energy efficiency programs and conduct additional community outreach to inform the community about available local, state, and federal incentives. 2. Expand Austin Energy’s demand response programs Expand price-based demand response programs, including to the residential, commercial, industrial, and transportation sectors, and extend to additional devices and appliances such as electric hot water heaters, home energy management systems, commercial and residential battery storage, electric vehicle smart chargers, and smart meters. 3. Invest in battery energy storage Battery storage is an important part of a decarbonized grid. Austin Energy must invest in utility scale and distributed battery storage to enable retirement of its fossil fuel power plants, flatten the demand curve, and avoid local electric grid price spikes that increase bills. 4. Utility-owned or contracted rooftop solar Austin Energy needs a considerable expansion of local solar to meet energy needs and keep bills affordable. Land is expensive, so rooftop solar is the best locally available clean renewable energy source. Consider designing a program whereby Austin Energy invests directly in customers’ rooftop solar and owns the installation for a set period of time. 5. Shut …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Resource Management Commission Recommendation No. 20240521-005 Resolution to Repurpose GreenChoice Revenues and Increase Dispatchable Renewable Energy WHEREAS, the City of Austin aspires to run its municipal electric utility, Austin Energy, completely with carbon-free electricity by 2035; and WHEREAS, a grid based largely on carbon-free energy cannot be realistically accomplished in Texas without energy storage or dispatchable renewable energy sources; and WHEREAS, Austin Energy has done very little to date to adopt energy storage or dispatchable energy into its future plans; and WHEREAS, GreenChoice, a program originally designed to enhance adoption of renewable energy by charging customers a different rate, is no longer necessary to increase Austin’s use of renewable energy; and WHEREAS, GreenChoice, when properly operating, collects about $7 million in increased revenues that can be repurposed to help transition Austin Energy to a completely carbon-free utility; and WHEREAS, GreenChoice funds can be leveraged with other funding in the public and private sector to magnify its spending power; THEN BE IT RESOLVED that the Resource Management Commission advises Council to direct Austin Energy to explore other strategies and funding sources as well as GreenChoice revenues in furtherance of the goal of adding more renewable dispatchability to its system; and THEN BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Resource Management Commission recommends that Council direct Austin Energy to secure future contracts from wind and solar projects that have associated storage projects which help make renewables more dispatchable. Vote: 7-1 For: Commissioner Paul Robbins, Vice Chair; Commissioner Charlotte Davis; Commissioner Trey Farmer; Commissioner Shane Johnson; Commissioner Chelsey Scaffidi; Commissioner Alison Silverstein Against: Commissioner Louis Stone, Chair Abstentions: None Off Dais: None Absences: Commissioner GeNell Gary Vacancies: District 2 and Mayor’s Office Attest: Natasha Goodwin, Staff Liaison
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, May 21, 2024 RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, May 21, 2024 The Resource Management Commission convened in a Regular Called meeting on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at Austin Energy Headquarters 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723. Chair Louis Stone called the Resource Management Commission meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Commissioner Louis Stone, Chair; Commissioner Paul Robbins, Vice Chair; Commissioner Charlotte Davis; Commissioner Trey Farmer; Commissioner Dino Sasaridis; Commissioner Alison Silverstein. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Commissioner Shane Johnson; Commissioner Chelsey Scaffidi. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Resource Management Commission Regular Meeting on April 16, 2024. The motion approving the minutes of the Resource Management Commission meeting of April 16, 2024 was approved on Commissioner Silverstein’s motion, Vice Chair Robbins second on an 6-0 vote with Commissioners Farmer and Johnson off the dais, Commissioner Gary absent, and two vacancies. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend approving issuance of capacity-based incentives to Individuals Directed to Excellence and Achievement (IDEA) Public Schools for installation of solar electric systems on their facilities located at 700 Showplace Lane, 9504 N IH 35 SVRD SB, 1901 E Wells Branch Parkway, 1438 E Yager Lane, 1701 Vargas Road, 5816 Wilcab Road, and 1700 E Slaughter Lane, in an amount not to exceed $924,858. The motion to approve a recommendation approving the issuance of capacity-based incentives to Individuals Directed to Excellence and Achievement (IDEA) Public Schools failed to pass on Commissioner Davis’s motion, Commissioner Scaffidi’s second on a 2-1-4 vote with Chair Stone voting against, Vice Chair Robbins, RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, May 21, 2024 Commissioners Johnson, Sasaridis, and Silverstein abstaining, Commissioner Farmer off the dais, Commissioner Gary absent, and two vacancies. STAFF BRIEFINGS 6. Staff briefing and process update on the Resource, Generation, and Climate Protection Plan by Lisa Martin, Deputy General Manager and Chief Operating Officer. The briefing was presented by Lisa Martin, Deputy General Manager and Chief Operating Officer of Austin Energy. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Approve a recommendation to amend the Resource Management Commission bylaws to include review of and advising on all matters related to natural gas companies that serve customers within the City of Austin, including franchise agreements, rates, and conservation programs. The motion to approve a recommendation amending the Resource Management Commission bylaws to include review of and …
REGULAR MEETING of the ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION MAY 21, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W 2ND ST, AUSTIN, TX 78701 Some members of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory 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 Eric Anderson at (512) 974-2562 or eric.anderson@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Hanna Huang, Chair Seonhye “Sonny” Sin Hailey Easley Nayer Sikder Satyajeet Dodia Pierre Nguyen Sarah Xiyi Chen CALL TO ORDER Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Kuo Yang Luan Tran Sabrina Sha Sarah Chen Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten 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 Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission meeting on April 19, 2024. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. Presentation regarding community needs and planning for use of U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) funding for housing and public services. (Chris Duran, Grants Program Manager, Housing Department). Discussion of Resolution No. 20240502-093 (A resolution directing the City Manager to create a City Poet Laureate program). Discussion of a meeting with City of Austin Department leaders and the Equity Office related to approved Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission budget recommendations. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 5. 6. Update from the Food Security working group. Update from the Asian American Resource Center working group related to the outdoor pavilion. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 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 Eric Anderson, Office of (512) 974-2562 or eric.anderson@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Asian American Quality of …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES APRIL 16, 2024 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a Regular meeting on April 16, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Chair Huang called the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hanna Huang, Chair Padmini Jambulapati Kuo Yang Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Sarah Chen, Vice Chair Satyajeet Dodia Hailey Easley Anna Lan Pierre Nguyen Sabrina Sha Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan Nayer Sikder Sonny Sin Luan Tran Commissioners Absent: Mohsin Lari PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL KB Brookins - Poet Laureate program APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission meeting on March 19, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of March 19, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Sin’s motion, Commissioner Nguyen’s second on a 10-0 vote. Vice Chair Chen, 1 4. 5. 6. Commissioners Lan and Shakur Jamal-Hassan were off the dais. Commissioner Lari was absent. Staff briefing regarding the draft Equity-Based Preservation Plan from Cara Bertron, Planning Department. The presentation was made by Cara Bertron of the Planning Department Historic Preservation Office. STAFF BRIEFING 2. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation by Nirali Thakkar on the Asian American Resource Center (AARC) Senior PhotoVoice Project. The presentation was made by Nirali Thakkar, AARC Graduate Social Work Intern, Parks and Recreation Department; Tony Vo, AARC Culture & Arts Education Manager, Parks and Recreation Department; Linda Bustos, AARC Senior Program Participant; and Rich Cogbill, AARC Senior Program Participant. Presentation by Lila Valencia, City Demographer on City of Austin demographics and changes to the Census Bureau race/ethnicity definitions. The presentation was made by Lila Valencia, City Demographer, Planning Department. Discussion of a meeting between the new Central Health CEO and Chair Huang. Chair Huang and Commissioner Easley provided an update. Discussion of a 2024 Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Heritage Month proclamation. Commissioners Nguyen and Sin provided the update that they are working with the District 4 Council Office on a proclamation. Update from the GraduAsian Graduation Event working group regarding a potential event. Chair Huang and Commissioner Sin provided an update. Update from the Asian American Resource Center (AARC) working group regarding Asian Pacific American Heritage Month programs and the Phase II Expansion Plan. Chair Huang provided an update. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 9. 8. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Conduct officer …
Discussion on community needs and spending priorities for the FY 25-29 Consolidated Plan for federal grants. Agenda Where Does Our Funding Come From? Planning and Reporting for Federal Funding How We Make Decisions Fair Housing Programs and Activities Overview What We've Heard From the Community Group and Community Input How do we fund our programs? HUD Annual Entitlement Grants Housing Trust Fund Approved City Bonds City Operating Budget Project Connect Anti-Displacement Funds CARES Act Federal Grants: Planning & Reporting Programs & Activites The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) allocates entitlement funding to municipalities and state governments. The City of Austin applies for what in recent years has been approximately $14 million in annual grant entitlements across four grants for affordable housing, community development, economic development, and public services. Each year, we plan and evaluate the programs funded by the HUD grants. 5 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Consolidated Plan (5-Year) Allocates federal resources to housing and community development Action Plan (1-Year) Summarizes actions, activities and federal/non- federal resources in the Consolidated Plan Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) (1-Year) End-of-year report on progress toward consolidated plan 6 How are funding decisions made? We are here Community Participation: Community Needs Assessment Available Use of Funding Sources Consolidated Plan Housing Needs & Market Analysis Other Planning Efforts Austin Strategic Housing Blueprint Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice 7 Consolidated Plan Funding Sources Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Goal: Provide decent housing and a suitable living environment; expand economic opportunities for low-income people Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) Goal: Benefit low-income persons living with HIV/AIDS and their families by providing supportive services and housing Consolidated Plan (5-Year) HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) Goal: create affordable housing for low- income households Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) Goal: Assist people to quickly regain stability in permanent housing after experiencing a housing crisis and/or homelessness 8 Fair Housing • 2019 Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (AI) • Potential upcoming "Equity Plan" related to fair housing • Seeking input and surveying on fair housing issues, experiences 9 Programs & Activities 10 Who Do We Serve? 64.4% 3,017 # households served FY 22-23 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% 17.5% 16.7% Extremely Low Income (<30% MFI) Very Low Income (31%- 50% MFI) Low Income (51%-80% MFI) 1.4% 81%+ MFI *Income data does not include ESG, HOPWA …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES May 21, 2024 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a Regular meeting on May 21, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Chair Huang called the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hanna Huang, Chair Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Kuo Yang Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Sarah Chen Sarah Xiyi Chen Satyajeet Dodia Hailey Easley Pierre Nguyen Nayer Sikder Sonny Sin Luan Tran Commissioners Absent: Sabrina Sha Zahra Shakur Jamal-Hassan PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission meeting on April 19, 2024. None. 1 The minutes from the meeting of April 19, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Sin’s motion, Commissioner Chen’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioners Sha and Shakur Jamal-Hassan were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation regarding community needs and planning for use of U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) funding for housing and public services. (Chris Duran, Grants Program Manager, Housing Department). The presentation was made by Julie Smith, Community Engagement Specialist, Housing Department and James May, Housing and Community Development Officer, Housing Department. Discussion of Resolution No. 20240502-093 (A resolution directing the City Manager to create a City Poet Laureate program). Chair Huang provided an update. Discussion of a meeting with City of Austin Department leaders and the Equity Office related to approved Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission budget recommendations. Chair Huang and Vice Chair Jambulapati provided an update. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 5. 6. Update from the Food Security working group. Commissioner Sin and Vice Chair Jambulapati provided an update. Update from the Asian American Resource Center working group related to the outdoor pavilion. Chair Huang provided an update. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS An item to review the Commission’s July and August meeting dates was requested by Chair Huang and Vice Chair Jambulapati. An item to discuss holding an in-person Commission meeting at the Asian American Resource Center was requested by Chair Huang and Vice Chair Jambulapati. Items to update the membership of the Food Security working group and Asian American Resource Center working group were requested by Chair Huang and Vice Chair Jambulapati. 3. 4. 2 ADJOURNMENT Chair Huang adjourned the meeting at 7:28 p.m. without objection. The minutes were approved at the June 18, 2024, …
Water and Wastewater Commission Budget Committee Meeting May 20, 2024 – 3:00pm Waller Creek Center 625 E. 10th St. Austin, Texas Some members may be participating by videoconference. For more information go to: http://www.austintexas.gov/wwc 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, call or email the commission liaison at 512-972-0115 or Blanca.Madriz@austintexas.gov. Members of the public wishing to speak in person on the agenda and non-agenda related items must sign up at least ten minutes before the meeting is called to order. AGENDA Marcela Tuñón Sion (District 9) Susan Turrieta (District 10), Chair Budget Committee Members: Sam Angoori (District 5) Judy Musgrove (District 7) CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers who register to speak before the meeting in person or by noon the day before the meeting remotely by telephone, will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. Austin Water Financial Forecast Fiscal Year 2025-2029 Update 2. Austin Water Cost of Services Update 3. Austin Water Debt Management Update 4. Review Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Schedule 5. Review and possible action to approve the Budget Committee meeting schedule DISCUSSION & POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Discussion of future agenda items ADJOURN 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 call Heather Cooke at Austin Water, 512-972-0083 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Water and Wastewater Commission, please contact Heather Cooke at Heather.Cooke@austintexas.gov.
Water and Wastewater Commission Budget Committee Meeting Minutes May 20, 2024 Approval: July 9, 2024 WATER AND WASTEWATER COMMISSION BUDGET COMMITTEE MINUTES May 20, 2024 The Water and Wastewater Commission Budget Committee convened on May 22, 2023, at Waller Creek Center, 625 E. 10th Street, Austin, Texas. Chair Turrieta called the meeting to order at 3:06 pm Budget Committee Members in Attendance: Susan Turrieta (Chair), Marcela Tuñón Sion (Vice Chair) (remote), Judy Musgrove Budget Committee Members Absent: Sam Angoori PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL There were no speakers registered to speak. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. Austin Water Financial Forecast Fiscal Year 2025 – 2029 Update - Austin Water Assistant Director of Financial Services, Joseph Gonzales, Austin Water Financial Manager Songli Floyd and Christina Romero provided updates and answered questions. 2. Austin Water Cost of Service Update – Austin Water Financial Manager, Songli Floyd provided updates and answered questions. 3. Austin Water Debt Management Update – Austin Water Financial Manager, Christina Romero provided an update and answered questions. 4. Review Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Schedule – Austin Water Financial Manager, Christina Romero provided an update and answered questions. DISCUSSION & POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS 5. Review and possible action to approve Budget Committee meeting schedule – The Budget Committee will review availability to schedule a follow up meeting. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Discussion of future agenda items - Chair Turrieta and Vice Chair Tuñon Sion requested updates on Capital Improvement Project (CIP) spending and Full-Time Employees (FTEs). ADJOURN The meeting was adjourned at 4:30 p.m. by Chair Turrieta. The minutes were approved at the July 9, 2024 Budget Committee meeting on Commissioner Musgrove’s motion and Vice Chair Tuñón Sion’s second on a 3-0 vote, with Commissioner Angoori absent.
1. REGULAR CALLED MEETING of the URBAN RENEWAL BOARD MAY 20, 2024, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1401/1402 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR. AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 *NOTE: The Urban Renewal Board no longer meets at the Street-Jones Building. 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 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 Approve the minutes of the Urban Renewal Board’s (URB’s) regular-called meeting on April 15, 2024 1 of 2 DISCUSSION ITEMS Update and discussion regarding the appointment of the seventh commissioner to the Urban Renewal Board (URB) Discussion related to updates on future development of Blocks 16 & 18 from Austin Economic Development Corporation, including the Request for Proposals process and Evaluation process underway (Anne Gatling Haynes, Austin Economic Development Corporation) DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discuss and approve a recommendation to City Council supporting the continued need for the Urban Renewal Plan and Urban Renewal Agency in response to the City Ordinance No. 20181213-101 (Chair Escobar) Discuss and approve further action in support of the Urban Renewal Board Recommendation 20240318-005 to City Council related to the FY 2024-25 annual budget for the Urban Renewal Board EXECUTIVE SESSION Discuss legal matters related to the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of an interest in Blocks …
1. URBAN RENEWAL BOARD MEETING DRAFT MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, APRIL 15, 2024 The URBAN RENEWAL BOARD convened on MONDAY, APRIL 15, 2024, at the Permitting and Development Center - 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Manuel Escobar called the Urban Renewal Board meeting to order at 6:11 p.m. with four members present. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Manuel Escobar, Vice Chair Darrell W. Pierce, and Commissioners Kobla Tetey and Amit Motwani were present. Commissioner Watson joined the dais at 6:16pm. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: No commissioners attended remotely Board Members Absent/off the dais at call to order: Commissioner Tam Hawkins was absent, and Commissioner Watson was off the dais. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the URB’s special-called meeting on March 18, 2024 On Commissioner Tetey’s motion, Commissioner Motwani’s second, the March 18, 2024, minutes were approved, on a 4-0-0 vote with Commissioners Hawkins absent and Commissioner Watson off the dais. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Update and discussion regarding the appointment of the seventh commissioner to the Urban Renewal Board (URB) 1 Chair Escobar briefed the board that there was no appointment of a seventh commissioner at this time. Presentation and discussion regarding the FY 24-29 Consolidated Plan process and related community needs and federal spending priorities (Chris Duran, Julie Smith, and James May, Housing Department) Julie Smith and James May gave the presentation. Discussion related to updates on future development of Blocks 16 & 18 from Austin Economic Development Corporation, including the Request for Proposals process and Evaluation process underway (Anne Gatling Haynes and Jose Lopez, Austin Economic Development Corporation) Anne Gatling Haynes gave a brief update. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discuss and approve a recommendation to City Council supporting the continued need for the Urban Renewal Plan and Urban Renewal Agency in response to the City Ordinance No. 20181213-101 (Chair Escobar) Following discussion, the board requested this item be taken up again at the May 20, 2024, meeting focusing on further action in support of the URB’s FY2025 budget request. EXECUTIVE SESSION The Chair recessed the meeting for Executive Session at 7:17pm. 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) The Chair entered into the private consultation with …
URBAN RENEWAL BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20240318-005 Commissioner Watson FY25 Budget Recommendation Seconded By: Commissioner Motwani Date: March 26, 2024 Subject: Motioned By: Recommendation Approve the base budget for the Urban Renewal Board (the “Board”) consistent with the approved FY 2023-24 budget, including a 5% increase for inflation, and providing an additional $100,000 to support an initial year of strategic planning initiatives, additional planning, engagement and outreach relating to the African American Cultural Heritage District, for a total FY 2024-25 budget of $152,000. Description of Recommendation to Council The Board’s budget for FY 2023-2024 is $47,956. For FY 2024-2025, the Board requests this base funding amount be increased for inflation and supplemented with funds to support strategic planning initiatives for the Board as well as additional planning, engagement and outreach related to activation and implementation of district specific improvements within the Urban Renewal Plan area related to and supportive of the African American Cultural Heritage District (the “District”) and the vibrancy of a commercial corridor that reflects the heritage and future of the District, building upon the initial engagement accomplished and programs that have been identified for the multi-use project proposed for Blocks 16 and 18. Rationale: Strategic Planning The Board has diligently pursued the tasks assigned to it by City Council when the Urban Renewal Plan (the “Plan”) was renewed in 2018, and has completed its work on the updates to the Plan and the neighborhood conservation combining district documents relating to the Plan area. As the Board has already launched and continues to progress through the RFP process for the development of Blocks 16 and 18 – the final item assigned to it by City Council – the Board desires to explore how it may best support the Plan area and the City of Austin in the future. Many similarly situated urban renewal agencies and boards across the country have transitioned over time into other district support organizations once the goals of their original urban renewal plans have been accomplished. The Board would like to build on the engagement accomplished in the work to date and potentially help transition the momentum into a longer-term district support organization as has been done by similar bodies nationwide. The Urban Renewal Board would like to engage in a strategic planning process to determine its best path forward, from district support specific activities/purposes to potential governance models and requests funding to engage with consultants …
1. URBAN RENEWAL BOARD MEETING MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, MAY 20, 2024 The URBAN RENEWAL BOARD convened on MONDAY, May 20, 2024, at the Permitting and Development Center - 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Manuel Escobar called the Urban Renewal Board meeting to order at 6:11 p.m. with four members present. Commissioner Hawkins joined the dais at 6:19pm. There is currently one vacancy on the board. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Manuel Escobar, Vice Chair Darrell W. Pierce, and Commissioners Kobla Tetey, Amit Motwani, Jacqueline Watson and Tam Hawkins were present. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: No commissioners attended remotely. Board Members Absent/off the dais at call to order: Commissioner Tam Hawkins joined the dais at 6:19pm. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Mr. Stables addressed the board regarding Ordinance #20220915-065. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Urban Renewal Board’s (URB’s) regular-called meeting on April 15, 2024 On Commissioner Watson’s motion, Commissioner Motwani’s second, the minutes of the April 15, 2024, meeting were approved on 5-0-0 vote. 1 DISCUSSION ITEMS Update and discussion regarding the appointment of the seventh commissioner to the Urban Renewal Board (URB) Chair Escobar briefed the board that there is a newly appointed commissioner to fill the vacancy. He is working through the eligibility process. Discussion related to updates on future development of Blocks 16 & 18 from Austin Economic Development Corporation, including the Request for Proposals process and Evaluation process underway (Anne Gatling Haynes, Austin Economic Development Corporation) The Chair postponed this item to the Executive Session. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discuss and approve a recommendation to City Council supporting the continued need for the Urban Renewal Plan and Urban Renewal Agency in response to the City Ordinance No. 20181213-101 (Chair Escobar) Courtney Banker updated the board; Chair Escobar led the discussion. Discuss and approve further action in support of the Urban Renewal Board Recommendation 20240318-005 to City Council related to the FY 2024-25 annual budget for the Urban Renewal Board Following discussion, Commissioner Watson made a motion to authorize Chair Escobar and Vice Chair Pierce to speak on behalf of the URB to advocate for the board’s recommendation regarding the FY 2024-25 annual budget for the URB, seconded by Commissioner Tetey. Commissioner Motwani motioned for a friendly amendment to allow any board member to speak on behalf of the full board. Commissioner Watson agreed to the amendment and on Commissioner …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MAY 20, 2024 – 6:00 PM BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS, ROOM 1101 301 W. 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Parks and Recreation Board may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. For remote participation, registration must be completed no later than noon the day before the meeting. To register to speak, click here: https://forms.office.com/g/ZfQiW2FBur or call or email Tim Dombeck, (512) 974- 6716, Tim.Dombeck@austintexas.gov. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and may be allowed up to three (3) minutes to provide their comments. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Pedro Villalobos (D-2), Chair Kathryn Flowers (D-4), Vice Chair Shelby Orme (D-1) Nicole Merritt (D-3) Stephanie Bazan (D-5) VACANT (D-6) VACANT (D-7) Kim Taylor (D-8) Jennifer Franklin (D-9) Holly Reed (D-10) Lane Becker (Mayor) 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 the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of April 22, 2024. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural Center and Genealogy Center staff and the 2024 Stay Black & Live Austin Citywide Juneteenth Festival. (Sponsors: Villalobos, Flowers). Presenter(s): Carre Adams, Culture & Arts Education Manager, Parks and Recreation Department. Discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council to direct the Watershed Protection Department to seek alternative solutions to the current proposed plan for the Reed Park Water Quality Improvement Project. (Sponsors: Reed, Taylor). Presentation, discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council to approve the negotiation and execution of a Parkland Improvement Agreement with Hill Country Conservancy for the Violet Crown Mile Zero Trailhead project that includes a maximum amount of funding of $900,000 the Parks and Recreation Department will allocate to Hill Country Conservancy for a portion of the cost to construct the project. (Sponsors: Villalobos, Flowers). (PARD Long Range Strategies: Relief from Urban Life, Urban Public Spaces.) Presenter(s): Christine Chute Canul, Program Manager II, Parks and Recreation Department and George Cofer, Violet Crown Trail Project Manager, Hill Country Conservancy. Page 1 of 2 2. 3. 4. Discussion and create a Public Access …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES APRIL 22, 2024 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES APRIL 22, 2024 The PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD convened in a REGULAR meeting on April 22, 2024 at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas Chair Villalobos called the PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Pedro Villalobos, Kathryn Flowers, Jennifer Franklin, Nicole Merritt, Holly Reed. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Stephanie Bazan, Shelby Orme, Kim Taylor (left meeting at 6:27 p.m.). Board Members Absent: Lane Becker. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Joe Riddell - Waterloo Greenway and Waterloo Conservancy Laura Esparza - Austin Arts Alliance and Daugherty Arts Center Ted Eubanks - Frederick Law Olmstead Parks and Divisive vs. Unifying actions Lucky Lemieux - Daugherty Arts Center Construction Diana Prechter - Withdrawal of Ted Eubanks Parks and Recreation Board Nomination Wolf Sittler - Norwood House Chris Flores - Barton Springs Pool Issues Gail Rothe - Withdrawal of Ted Eubanks Parks and Recreation Board Nomination Tanya Payne - Withdrawal of Ted Eubanks Parks and Recreation Board Nomination Teri Adams - Role of the Parks and Recreation Board Robin Rather - Withdrawal of Ted Eubanks Parks and Recreation Board Nomination Andrea Hill - PARD Management Patrick Moore - Building a Tower in Bolm District Park APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board special called meetings of March 27, 2024. The motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board special called meeting of March 27, 2024 with amendments to remove the words “Barton Springs Conservancy’s Role” from Item 7 Paragraph 1, and to show Board Member Stephanie Bazan as having been in attendance remotely was approved on Chair Villalobos’ motion, Board Member Merritt’s second on a 7-0 vote with two vacancies. Board Members Becker and Taylor absent. 1 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES APRIL 22, 2024 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for PARD Human Resources Team for their successful recruiting and hiring practices, use of new technology, administration of summer bonuses, and nationally recognized safety training program. Daniel Paciocco, Human Resources Manager, Parks and Recreation Department gave a presentation and answered questions on delays in lifeguard hiring and the need for more HR staff. The motion to approve letters of support for PARD Human Resources Team for their successful recruiting and hiring practices, use …
Violet Crown Trail | Mile Zero Trailhead Parkland Improvement Agreement with Hill Country Conservancy Parks and Recreation Board Christine Chute Canul, Program Manager II Parks and Recreation Department, City of Austin May 20, 2024 Violet Crown Trail In 2006, planning of the Violet Crown Trail began. Its purpose is to create the first regional trail system in Central Texas. After years of strategic land acquisition and planning, the trail is now 13 miles long running from Zilker Park to Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. With continued construction, the VCT is on its way to becoming the longest trail of its kind in Central Texas. 2 Violet Crown Trail | Mile Zero Trailhead at Zilker Metropolitan Park 3 Project Improvement Map 4 Improvements at the Site Mile Zero Entry Feature and Gathering Area Meadow Pavilion Observation Deck and Overlook Stabilized Decomposed Granite Trail Meadow enhancements and walking trail Bike Racks Educational Signage Improved Crosswalk and ADA access 5 6 Project Cost Estimate PROJECT BUDGET Construction Costs Materials Cost Estimated Project Cost Contingency Total Project Cost: 7 Permitting, Design, Project Mgt Costs In-kind Design and Project Management 1,006,488 936,637 1,943,125 194,313 54,115 125,000 2,316,553 Timeline and Next Steps Community Engagement 2018-2019 – Complete 2022 Site Plan Approved 5/20/24 Parks and Recreation Board 7/18/24 City Council Execute Parkland Improvement Agreement Construction begins late 2024 – early 2025 8 Make a recommendation to City Council to approve the negotiation and execution of a Parkland Improvement Agreement with Hill Country Conservancy for the Violet Crown Trail Mile Zero Trailhead project. The agreement includes a maximum amount of Parkland Dedication funding of $900,000 the Parks and Recreation Department will allocate to Hill Country Conservancy for a portion of the cost of constructing the project. Action 9
Carver Museum F I S C A L Y E A R 2 0 2 4 P R O G R A M H I G H L I G H T S B L A C K H I S T O R Y M O N T H 2 0 2 4 @ C A R V E R M U S E U M Black History Month Kids Day Solar Saturdays That’s My Face Create & Heal S M A L L B L A C K M U S E U M R E S I D E N C Y P R O J E C T V O L U M E 3 Corey Sherrad, Jr. taylor barnes Nitiasha Johnson Corey De'Juan Sherrard, Jr. (b. 1996) received his B.S. in digital media from the University of Houston. He creates work that honors the Black Radical tradition of resistance using paint, photography, sound, and sculpture. Sherrard is also an alumnus of the School for Poetic Computation. taylor barnes (b. 1993) is native of Austin, Texas. She is a ceramic, charcoal, and fibers artist who explores spirituality, oral history, materiality, and bell hooks' philosophy of object and subject. She received her MFA from the University of North Texas. The artist chooses to honor her linage by not capitalizing the letters of her name. Nitashia Johnson, is a multimedia artist and educator from Dallas, Texas. She is an alumna of Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, Texas Woman's University (BFA), and the Rhode Island School of Design (MAT). She received her MFA from the University of Texas at Dallas. Her work seeks to help us reconnect to our natural environment to build an understanding of our personal histories and lived experiences. Juneteenth 2024 S T A Y B L A C K & L I V E A U S T I N C I T Y W I D E J U N E T E E N T H F E S T I V A L J U N E 1 5 , 2 0 2 4 - J U N E 1 9 , 2 0 2 4 The George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Cener in partnership with Carver ATX Foundation STAY BLACK JUNETEENTH FESTIVAL HISTORY In response to the ongoing global health crisis and endemic …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD DIRECTOR’S UPDATE DATE: May 2024 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT EVENTS: Austin Tennis Center: The Austin Parks and Recreation Department partnered with the Capital Area Tennis Association to resurface ten tennis courts at the Austin Tennis Center. The United States Tennis Association (USTA) awarded a $39,500 grant to the Capital Area Tennis Association (CATA), and USTA Texas added an additional $10,000, totaling $49,500 to assist with covering the costs of the improvement. The feedback from the community has been positive as everyone appreciates the improved playing surface. District 1 Austin Tennis Center new surface court The Oakwood Cemetery Chapel Community Engagement: The Oakwood Cemetery Chapel hosted community engagement meetings with the Tejano Genealogy Society of Austin and a Hispanic descendant's group to get feedback on past Tejano programs and events and to plan summer and fall programs and events. Fifteen community members attended this event. District 1 All-Abilities Playground at Onion Creek Metropolitan Park: An online survey will remain open until May 31st to receive feedback on playground options and themes for the All-Abilities Playground. This will complete the second phase of community engagement for the project, which also included a virtual community meeting held on May 2nd and several small group discussions throughout the month. The final round of community engagement to share a single playground concept is expected to be completed by late summer, with the third virtual meeting scheduled for June 20th. The Department 1 teamed with Austin Parks Foundation and their consultant team, TBG Partners and Cultural Strategies, to design and develop the playground at Onion Creek Metropolitan Park in alignment with the 2015 Vision Plan. A schematic design phase led by Austin Parks Foundation will begin as funding becomes available. District 2 https://www.austintexas.gov/Onion-Creek-All-Abilities Bolm District Park Vision Plan Community Engagement Round #2 Virtual Meeting: The Department will be hosting the second community meeting via Zoom on Tuesday, February 13 at 6 p.m. Project team members will present design concepts around themes developed through feedback and responses to the first community survey. This will also mark the launch of the second community survey. Additional project information, including a link to register for the meeting and dates for community pop-ups, can be found at the project’s website. District 3 Project Webpage Bolm District Park Pan American Neighborhood Park: On September 1, 2022, the Austin City Council passed a resolution in alignment with recommendations from the Parks …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION YYYYMMDD-XXX May 20, 2024 Seconded By: Reed Park Water Quality Improvement Project Date: Subject: Motioned By: Whereas the land for Reed Neighborhood Park was donated to the City of Austin in 1954 by Roberta Reed Crenshaw, an Austin Parks icon; Whereas Reed Park is the only child friendly and publicly accessible park within 1/2 mile walking distance of approximately 4000 residents;1 Whereas Reed Park is one of only three neighborhood parks with an open play field in an area with over 11,000 residents, including many young children2 Whereas the Watershed Protection Dept.’s current plans are to treat stormwater runoff from 127 acres of upstream land by turning Reed Park’s ball field into a biofiltration pond and reducing its size to 1/3 of its current area;3 Whereas the Watershed Protection Dept.’s current plans will require a permanent change in use of public parkland through Chapter 26 of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code4 Whereas a similar storm water treatment pond at Austin’s Battle Bend Park has resulted in loss of public parkland and ball field play area; Whereas as the majority of respondents to a public engagement survey were opposed to Watershed Protection Dept.’s current plan for Reed Park5 Whereas over 750 people have signed a petition in opposition to Watershed Protection Dept.’s current proposed plan for Reed Park; 6 Whereas Watershed Protection Dept. Staff have indicated they are willing to seek alternative plans to accomplish the needed water treatment for the Taylor Slough Watershed; 1 https://austin.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=c976b69e7840435c84f6461c1201edae 2 https://data.census.gov/ 3 https://www.austintexas.gov/department/reed-park-water-quality-improvement-project 4https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/PW/htm/PW.26.htm#:~:text=PARKS%20AND%20WILDLIFE%20CODE% 20CHAPTER,PUBLIC%20PARKS%20AND%20RECREATIONAL%20LANDS&text=(2)%20the%20program%2 0or%20project,from%20the%20use%20or%20taking. 5 https://publicinput.com/Report/1osdwdgcnd4 6 https://www.change.org/p/stop-the-proposed-watershed-plan-at-reed-park 1 of 2 Therefore, the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Board recommends: (1) Austin City Council direct the Watershed Protection Department and Parks and Recreation Dept. to seek alternative solutions to the current proposed plan for the Reed Park Water Quality Improvement Project that do not require Chapter 26 change of use for this public parkland and; (2) Austin City Council direct WPD and PARD to work with citizens and stakeholders to find a solution that does not alter or diminish the current area or use of the Reed Park open ball field. Vote For: Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: [Staff or board member can sign] 2 of 2
M E M O R A N D U M Parks and Recreation Board Members Janae Spence, P.E., Assistant Director Watershed Protection Department May 20, 2024 To: From: Date: Subject: Proposed Reed Park Water Quality Control The Watershed Protection Department would like to express our commitment to continuing to work with the Reed Park community to produce the best possible final design for a water quality control in Reed Park. Taylor Slough, the creek that runs through the park, has some of the worst water quality in Austin due to high nutrients and E. coli bacteria. It is one of four creeks in Austin classified as impaired by the Texas Commission of Environmental Quality. Poor water quality can contribute to problems downstream like toxic algae that can make spaces unsafe for swimming and other recreation. Swimming in water with high E. coli can also lead to sickness (such as vomiting and diarrhea). This project, in conjunction with other strategies, is meant to reduce pollution in the creek by cleaning stormwater runoff and offsetting the impact of continued urbanization on our streams. In addition to improving water quality, the project intends to maintain recreational use, replace an old wastewater line that runs through the park, stabilize stream erosion, and improve wildlife habitat. We are aware of community concerns with the last proposed concept. The project completed Preliminary Engineering Phase but will not move into design until the latest community input has been incorporated. Since our last meeting with Friends of Reed Park, we have been working on alternatives to address concerns. We are also developing an updated engagement plan to include additional community education and communication about the goals of the project and its final components, as well as a collaborative process for further integrating the community’s priorities into our project plans. We hope to have this updated engagement plan by the end of this month. Community engagement activities for this project to date have included the following: • Informational mailer with invitation to public meeting (mailed to a little over 1000 residents) • Hosted a public meeting on May 11, 2023 Page 1 of 2 • Hosted a walking tour of the proposed project area in the Reed Park • Held meetings with Friends of Reed Park on the following dates o 5/1/23 o 3/28/24 • Conducted a community survey between May and June 2023 (151 respondents) We understand concerns …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES MAY 20, 2024 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MAY 20, 2024 The PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD convened in a REGULAR meeting on May 20, 2024 at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas Chair Villalobos called the PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Pedro Villalobos, Kathryn Flowers, Lane Becker, Holly Reed. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Stephanie Bazan, Shelby Orme. Board Members Absent: Jennifer Franklin, Nicole Merritt, Kim Taylor. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Liz Barhydt - Austin Rowing Club Chris Flores - Barton Springs Bathhouse Wolf Sittler - Norwood House Phillip Thomas - Free Zilker Coalition Cedar Stevens - Free Zilker Coalition APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of April 22, 2024. The motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of April 22, 2024 was approved on Chair Villalobos’ motion, Vice Chair Flowers’ second on a 6-0 vote with two vacancies. Board Members Franklin, Merritt and Taylor absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural Center and Genealogy Center staff and the 2024 Stay Black & Live Austin Citywide Juneteenth Festival. Carre Adams, Cultural & Arts Education Manager, Parks and Recreation Department gave a presentation and answered questions on the Carver genealogical archives and events at the Carver. The motion to approve letters of support for George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural Center and Genealogy Center staff and the 2024 Stay Black & Live Austin Citywide 1 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES MAY 20, 2024 Juneteenth Festival was approved on Chair Villalobos' motion, Board Member Becker’s second on a 6-0 vote with two vacancies. Board Members Franklin, Merritt and Taylor absent. 3. Discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council to direct the Watershed Protection Department to seek alternative solutions to the current proposed plan for the Reed Park Water Quality Improvement Project. Board Members discussed the need for green space in this park deficient area, the poor water quality of the creek, the effects of rapid urbanization on this area, the Chapter 26 process, and wastewater infrastructure. The motion to recommend to Austin City Council to direct the Watershed Protection Department and Parks and Recreation Dept. to seek alternative solutions to the current proposed plan for the …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING of the HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Monday, May 20, 2024, 6:00 p.m. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1406 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR. AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Human Rights 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 Eric Anderson at eric.anderson@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-2562. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Kolby Duhon, Chair (He/They) Gabriella Zeidan, Vice Chair Alicia Weigel (She/They) Michael Stevenson Muneeb ‘Meebs’ Aslam (He/Him) Morgan Davis (He/Him) Mariana Krueger (She/Her) Jeffrey Clemmons Srini Raghavan Harriett Kirsh Pozen Danielle Bryant CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first ten 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 Human Rights Commission meeting on April 22, 2024. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. 3. Approve a recommendation to condemn the enactment of the State of Texas' Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion ban (Senate Bill 17) and its effect on the University of Texas. Approve a recommendation to call on City Council to engage with the University of Texas to cease the use of police force to suppress student protests, work with student activists to find peaceful and constructive solutions, protect free speech and peaceful protest, protect student rights, and call on City Council to investigate the use of force and arrests of student protesters, faculty, and media. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 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 Eric Anderson, Office of (512) 974-2562 or eric.anderson@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Human Rights Commission, please contact Eric Anderson at (512) 974-2562 or eric.anderson@austintexas.gov. the City Clerk at
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: (YYYYMMDD-XXX) (XXX is the agenda item number): Defending Free Speech and Peaceful Protest: A Call to Protect Student Rights WHEREAS, the Human Rights commission believes that free speech and peaceful protests are essential tools and rights in the struggle for a better world and the fight for justice and equality. We are deeply concerned about the recent use of multiple law enforcement agencies to suppress student protests at the University of Texas at Austin. The reports of heavy-handed tactics by law enforcement agencies are supported by videos and eyewitness accounts. The evidence depicts scenes of students being manhandled, pepper-sprayed, and arrested for exercising their constitutional right to assemble and voice their grievances. WHEREAS, student protests have played an important role in our nation's history, advancing civil rights and opposing immoral wars. We believe the right to peaceful protest and free speech are fundamental pillars of a free society, and that it is crucial to defend these rights against all who seek to suppress them. From the pivotal lunch counter sit-ins that challenged segregation to the mass mobilizations against the Vietnam War, student activism has long been a driving force for positive change, holding institutions accountable and giving voice to the marginalized. WHEREAS, the use of law enforcement agencies to silence dissenting voices is an affront to these principles, representing a concerning escalation of tactics that undermines the very fabric of our democratic freedoms, we cannot stand idly by, as overzealous law enforcement curtails the rights of our city's youth. As King wrote, “Never again is now”. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Human Rights Commission recommends to the Austin City Council to engage the University of Texas administration to immediately cease the use of police force to suppress student protests, and to work with student activists to find peaceful and constructive solutions to the issues that are being raised, protecting freedom of speech while ensuring safety for all. Open dialogue, facilitated by independent mediators, if necessary, must replace confrontation. AND FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Human Rights Commission calls on the Austin City Council to investigate the use of force and arrests of student protesters, faculty, and media. A thorough and transparent investigation would be a sign that those attempting to unlawfully silence the voices of those that are solely seeking the right to assemble peacefully will be held accountable. The right to …
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY APRIL 22, 2024 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on April 22, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon, Chair Danielle Bryant Jeffrey Clemmons Morgan Davis Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Gabriella Zeidan, Vice Chair Meebs Aslam Mariana Krueger Srini Raghavan Michael Stevenson Alicia Weigel Commissioners Absent: Harriet Kirsh Pozen PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1 Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission meeting on March 25, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of March 25, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Davis’ Motion, Commissioner Clemmons’ second on an 8-0 vote. Vice Chair Zeidan and Commissioner Weigel were off the dais. Commissioner Kirsh Pozen was absent. 2. 4. Welcome the new Commissioners and allow introductions. Commissioner Bryant introduced herself. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Approve a recommendation related to transgender and sexual identity protections. A motion to approve the recommendation was made by Commissioner Clemmons and seconded by Vice Chair Zeidan. An amendment to change the title of the recommendation to read “Transgender, Sexual Identity, and Gender Identity Protections” was made by Commissioner Krueger, seconded by Commissioner Bryant, and approved without objection. An amendment to revise where the recommendation reads “transgender and nonbinary” to read “transgender, nonbinary, and gender expansive,” excluding the references in the first and third Whereas clauses of the second page, was made by Chair Duhon, seconded by Commissioner Krueger, and approved without objection. The recommendation was approved as amended on Commissioner Clemmons’ motion, Vice Chair Zeidan’s second on a 9-1 vote. Commissioner Raghavan voted nay. Commissioner Kirsh Pozen was absent. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair for the term ending in April 2025 Commissioner Davis nominated Commissioner Duhon for the role of Chair with a second from Commissioner Zeidan. The motion to elect Commissioner Duhon as Chair was approved on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Kirsh Pozen was absent. Commissioner Krueger nominated Commissioner Zeidan for the role of Vice Chair with a second from Commissioner Clemmons. The motion to elect Commissioner Zeidan as Vice Chair was approved on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Kirsh Pozen was absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS A future recommendation related to Austin Police Department vacancies was requested by Commissioner Aslam and Chair Duhon. A future recommendation related …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommenda;on Number: (20240520-01): Condemning the Impact of Senate Bill 17 on Higher Educa:on and Advoca:ng for Inclusive Educa:onal Prac:ces WHEREAS, the Human Rights Commission of the City of Aus;n acknowledges the cri;cal role of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) ini;a;ves in fostering a welcoming and suppor;ve environment for all students and staff members at public universi;es; and WHEREAS, Senate Bill 17 (SB 17), which mandates the closure of DEI offices and prohibits DEI programs and trainings at Texas public universi;es, has had a profound nega;ve impact on the University of Texas at Aus;n (UT Aus;n) and other public ins;tu;ons within the city; and WHEREAS, the closure of DEI offices has resulted in the dissolu;on of programs such as the Mul;cultural Engagement Center, the Gender and Sexuality Center, and Monarch, which provided essen;al support to marginalized student groups and undocumented students; and WHEREAS, UT Aus;n and other universi;es have been forced to lay off dozens of staff members, many of whom were previously dedicated to DEI-related work, thereby reducing the support available to students from diverse backgrounds; and WHEREAS, the implementa;on of SB 17 has led to significant disrup;ons in the academic and social experiences of students, causing a sense of loss and aliena;on, as expressed by students at public protests; and WHEREAS, the Commission recognizes the detrimental impact of SB 17 on the mental and emo;onal wellbeing of students and staff members, as well as on the academic reputa;on and compe;;veness of UT Aus;n and other public universi;es; and WHEREAS, Governor Greg AbboZ has announced plans to implement further compliance measures to ensure the complete ban on DEI prac;ces, which threatens to exacerbate the nega;ve effects on higher educa;on within the city; and WHEREAS, the Commission believes that educa;onal ins;tu;ons serve as key anchors for the wellbeing and progress of the city and that aZacks on higher educa;on undermine the social and economic fabric of Aus;n; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. The Commission strongly condemns the adverse effects of Senate Bill 17 on the wellbeing of students and staff members at UT Aus;n and other public universi;es within the city. The Commission calls upon the administra;on of UT Aus;n and other affected ins;tu;ons to seek all possible avenues to mi;gate the nega;ve impacts of SB 17 on their campuses, including …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: 20240520-002: Condemning the Impact of Senate Bill 17 on Higher Education and Advocating for Inclusive Educational Practices WHEREAS, the Human Rights Commission of the City of Austin acknowledges the critical role of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for all students and staff members at public universities; and WHEREAS, Senate Bill 17 (SB 17), which mandates the closure of DEI offices and prohibits DEI programs and trainings at Texas public universities, has had a profound negative impact on the University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) and other public institutions within the city; and WHEREAS, the closure of DEI offices has resulted in the dissolution of programs such as the Multicultural Engagement Center, the Gender and Sexuality Center, and Monarch, which provided essential support to marginalized student groups and undocumented students; and WHEREAS, UT Austin and other universities have been forced to lay off dozens of staff members, many of whom were previously dedicated to DEI-related work, thereby reducing the support available to students from diverse backgrounds; and WHEREAS, the implementation of SB 17 has led to significant disruptions in the academic and social experiences of students, causing a sense of loss and alienation, as expressed by students at public protests; and WHEREAS, the Commission recognizes the detrimental impact of SB 17 on the mental and emotional wellbeing of students and staff members, as well as on the academic reputation and competitiveness of UT Austin and other public universities; and WHEREAS, Governor Greg Abbott has announced plans to implement further compliance measures to ensure the complete ban on DEI practices, which threatens to exacerbate the negative effects on higher education within the city; and 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. WHEREAS, the Commission believes that educational institutions serve as key anchors for the wellbeing and progress of the city and that attacks on higher education undermine the social and economic fabric of Austin; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: The Commission strongly condemns the adverse effects of Senate Bill 17 on the wellbeing of students and staff members at UT Austin and other public universities within the city. The Commission calls upon the administration of UT Austin and other affected institutions to seek all possible avenues to mitigate the negative impacts of SB 17 on their campuses, …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: 20240520-003 Defending Free Speech and Peaceful Protest: A Call to Protect Student Rights WHEREAS, the Human Rights commission believes that free speech and peaceful protests are essential tools and rights in the struggle for a better world and the fight for justice and equality. We are deeply concerned about the recent use of multiple law enforcement agencies to suppress student protests at the University of Texas at Austin. The reports of heavy-handed tactics by law enforcement agencies are supported by videos and eyewitness accounts. The evidence depicts scenes of students being manhandled, pepper-sprayed, and arrested for exercising their constitutional right to assemble and voice their grievances. WHEREAS, student protests have played an important role in our nation's history, advancing civil rights and opposing immoral wars. We believe the right to peaceful protest and free speech are fundamental pillars of a free society, and that it is crucial to defend these rights against all who seek to suppress them. From the pivotal lunch counter sit-ins that challenged segregation to the mass mobilizations against the Vietnam War, student activism has long been a driving force for positive change, holding institutions accountable and giving voice to the marginalized. WHEREAS, the use of law enforcement agencies to silence dissenting voices is an affront to these principles, representing a concerning escalation of tactics that undermines the very fabric of our democratic freedoms, we cannot stand idly by, as overzealous law enforcement curtails the rights of our city's youth. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Human Rights Commission recommends to the Austin City Council to engage the University of Texas administration to immediately cease the use of police force to suppress student protests, and to work with student activists to find peaceful and constructive solutions to the issues that are being raised, protecting freedom of speech while ensuring safety for all. Open dialogue, facilitated by independent mediators, if necessary, must replace confrontation. AND FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Human Rights Commission recommends to the Austin City Council to engage to make a call for Council to assess APD’s mutual aid agreements with other public safety agencies and provide direc�on to the city manager to ensure that APD officers refrain from any ac�vi�es that suppress legal speech or protests. AND FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Human Rights Commission calls on the Austin City Council to investigate the recent use of force …
