Budget Proposal for Improving the Accuracy and Effectiveness of the Austin Point-In-Time (PIT) Count WHEREAS, The annual PIT Count is a critical tool for assessing the scale of homelessness in Austin and securing federal funding, yet it has long been criticized for undercounting due to methodological challenges, volunteer limitations, and the transitory nature of homelessness. WHEREAS, Unhoused individuals in non-sheltered locations—such as encampments, wooded areas, and vehicles—are often missed, leading to inaccurate data that impacts funding and resource distribution. WHEREAS, The COVID-19 pandemic, housing crisis, and economic instability have increased the number of people experiencing homelessness, making accurate data collection more essential than ever. WHEREAS, Community organizations, advocacy groups, and policy leaders have called for more precise, real-time data collection efforts to better understand the causes, demographics, and needs of Austin’s unhoused population. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Human Rights Commission of the City of Austin recommends the City Council allocate $750,000 in funding to improve the methodology, accuracy, and impact of the PIT Count through the following initiatives: 1. Enhanced Technology and Real-Time Data Collection – $250,000 a. Develop and deploy a mobile app for PIT Count volunteers to capture real-time data, geotag encampment locations, and ensure accuracy. b. Expand the use of AI and machine learning in collaboration with local universities and tech partners to predict trends in homelessness and improve counting methods. c. Fund heatmaps and GIS tools to better identify high-density areas and track displacement patterns throughout the year. 2. Expanded Volunteer Training and Outreach – $200,000 a. Provide stipends to train outreach teams and ensure PIT Count volunteers are well-prepared to engage with unhoused individuals. b. Expand collaboration with lived experience consultants (unhoused/formerly unhoused individuals) to refine data collection approaches and improve survey effectiveness. Increase partnerships with community-based organizations, such as Mobile Loaves & Fishes and ECHO Austin, to ensure better outreach and participation. c. 3. Incentives for Participation and Data Accuracy – $150,000 a. Implement a small compensation program (e.g., gift cards, meals, or basic supplies) for unhoused individuals who participate in the survey to encourage honest responses. b. Provide funding for follow-up surveys throughout the year, ensuring a more continuous and accurate count rather than a one-time snapshot. 4. Specialized Focus on Uncounted Populations – $150,000 a. Expand PIT Count efforts beyond traditional methods to capture harder-to-reach b. Individuals in informal housing situations (couch-surfing, motels, car-living, etc.). c. Youth and LGBTQ+ unhoused …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: (20250324-004): Budget Proposal for Enhanced Climate Resilience in Austin Motioned by: Vice Chair Zeidan Seconded by: Commissioner Kirsh Pozen WHEREAS, The Human Rights Commission recognizes that access to clean air, water, and a stable climate is a fundamental human right, and Austin is experiencing increasingly severe climate impacts. In 2024, the city recorded the highest number of 100°F+ days in its history. WHEREAS, These extreme weather events, including destructive flooding, prolonged drought, and dangerous heat waves, affect disproportionately vulnerable communities. Austin's most vulnerable populations are largely concentrated on the east side, a result of early 20th-century segregation policies and the legacy of discriminatory practices. These communities are more likely to experience adverse outcomes due to socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, and age, making them more susceptible to climate-related disasters. WHEREAS, Austin has committed to climate neutrality by 2040 through the Austin Climate Equity Plan, yet current funding levels are insufficient to meet this goal, and environmental injustice—the disproportionate exposure of marginalized communities, particularly low-income communities and communities of color, to environmental hazards, along with their systemic exclusion from environmental decision-making—further exacerbates these challenges; and the 2023 Annual Highlights report from the Office of Sustainability notes that the city surpassed $1 million in funds provided to Austin-area schools through the Bright Green Future Grants program, supporting 555 projects since 2012; however, more substantial investments are needed to accelerate progress toward climate neutrality. WHEREAS, Austin Energy's transition to renewable energy currently stands at 43% of its energy portfolio, falling short of the interim goal of 65% renewable energy by 2025. The 2020 generation plan indicates an aim to achieve 375 MW of local solar by the end of 2030, with 200 MW targeted for customer-sited installations. To meet these targets, increased investment in renewable energy infrastructure is essential. WHEREAS, Extreme weather events have exposed vulnerabilities in Austin's infrastructure. The Central Texas Extreme Weather and Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment highlights that future climate scenarios predict increased heavy rain events and severe droughts, potentially shifting Austin's climate to resemble the arid Southwest. This underscores the urgent need for investments in climate resilience and energy independence. WHEREAS, Rising temperatures and extended heat waves pose significant public health risks. Data indicates that 32.3% of residents reported five or more poor mental health days in 2021, up from 17% in 2011, highlighting the mental health challenges exacerbated by climate stressors. The …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: (20250324-005): Budget Proposal for Increased Emergency Housing Assistance Motioned by: Commissioner Krueger Seconded by: Commissioner Clemmons WHEREAS, the City of Austin is facing a housing affordability crisis as data reports show that the overall median rent is now $1,995.00, with the median rent for a one bedroom at $1,387.00 which is 6.4% more expensive than the national average. WHEREAS, even though median rent has fallen in the past year, rental prices are still unsustainable; especially given that the cost of living for Austinites has continued to increase due to national trends such as soaring healthcare costs, grocery bills, and child and dependent care. WHEREAS, Eviction filings in Austin JP Courts reached a record high of 13,210 filings in a single year in 2024, an increase of 26% from 2023, and the State Legislature is currently advancing a bill to weaken what little rights tenants already possess in the state of Texas. WHEREAS, per the Eviction Lab at Princeton University, eviction filings in Austin have soared to over 50% higher than the pre-pandemic average rate, with communities of color drastically more at risk of eviction in a state with some of the country’s weakest protections for renters. WHEREAS, a record 2.1 million renters, more than half of the state’s renter households, are “cost burdened,” meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on rent and utilities per a recent Harvard University study. WHEREAS, the State of Texas shuttered its statewide rent relief program in the summer of 2023 leaving it up to municipalities to act on the growing rental crisis. Austin has stepped up to the plate, most recently in last year’s budget cycle with a $8 million rental assistance and eviction support program through the City of Austin Housing Department’s “I Belong in Austin” program. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Human Rights Commission encourages the Austin City Council to allocate at least another $8 million dollars in rental relief funds and explore all available means in order to create short-, medium-, and long-term solutions for individuals at risk of eviction in Austin. Date of Approval: March 24, 2025 Record of the vote: Approved on an 8-0 vote. For: Chair Duhon, Vice Chair Zeidan, Commissioners Aslam, Clemmons, Kirsh Pozen, Krueger, Khawar, Oliva Martínez. Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Commissioners Bryant, Davis, and Weigel Attest: _____________________________________________ (Human Rights Commission Staff Liaison)
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: (20250324-006): Budget Recommendation Providing Funding for Community Dialogues in the City of Austin Motioned by: Commissioner Clemmons Seconded by: Commissioner Duhon WHEREAS, the City Charter outlines that the Austin Human Rights Commission shall “initiate and facilitate discussions and negotiations between individuals and groups to lessen tensions and improve understanding in the community”; and, WHEREAS, the City Charter also outlines that the Austin Human Rights Commission shall, “institute and conduct educational programs to promote equal treatment, opportunity and understanding”; and, WHEREAS, the City Charter further outlines that the Austin Human Rights Commission shall “sponsor meetings, institutes, forums, and courses of instruction to lead to a clearer understanding and solution of human relations problems”; and, WHEREAS, pursuant to the City Charter, the Human Rights Commission formed a working group, the Intergroup Relations Working Group, for these purposes on January 27, 2025; and, WHEREAS, the working group shall propose that a series of up to 8 community dialogue sessions which will provide training, resources, and opportunities to bridge divides around topics related to immigration- based and other kinds of discrimination; and, WHEREAS, these dialogues have the potential to incur costs related to venue, travel, supplies, snacks, printing, and other preparatory materials. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Human Rights Commission encourages the Austin City Council to allocate $7,500 from the FY25 budget to aid in hosting up to 8 community dialogue sessions that promote greater understanding among members of our community who face discrimination related to immigration and other marginalized identities. Date of Approval: March 24, 2025 Record of the vote: Approved on an 8-0 vote. For: Chair Duhon, Vice Chair Zeidan, Commissioners Aslam, Clemmons, Kirsh Pozen, Krueger, Khawar, Oliva Martínez Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Commissioners Bryant, Davis, Weigel Attest: _____________________________________________ (Human Rights Commission Staff Liaison)
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: (20250324-007): Budget Recommendation Providing Funding for Printing and Distribution of "Know Your Rights" Red Cards at Austin Public Library Sites Motioned by: Comimssioner Oliva Martinez Seconded by: Chair Duhon WHEREAS, the City Charter outlines that the Austin Human Rights Commission shall “initiate and facilitate discussions and negotiations between individuals and groups to lessen tensions and improve understanding in the community”; and, WHEREAS, the City Charter also outlines that the Austin Human Rights Commission shall “institute and conduct educational programs treatment, opportunity and understanding”; and, to promote equal WHEREAS, public libraries serve as trusted and accessible community spaces where residents can receive critical information about their rights, particularly those related to immigration, law enforcement interactions, and workplace protections; and, WHEREAS, organizations such as the Immigrant Legal Resource Center and other advocacy groups have developed "Know Your Rights" red cards to help individuals understand their constitutional rights in various situations, including interactions with law enforcement and immigration officials; and, WHEREAS, ensuring that all Austin Public Library locations have printed "Know Your Rights" red cards available in multiple languages will empower community members with important legal information and contribute to greater public awareness and safety; and, WHEREAS, the costs associated with printing and distributing these materials include design, translation, printing, and distribution across all Austin Public Library branches. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Human Rights Commission encourages the Austin City Council to allocate up to $10,000 from the FY25-26 budget to the Austin Public Library for the printing and distribution of "Know Your Rights" red cards at all library locations, ensuring that critical legal information is accessible to all community members. Date of Approval: March 24, 2025 Record of the vote: Approved on an 8-0 vote. For: Chair Duhon, Vice Chair Zeidan, Commissioners Aslam, Clemmons, Kirsh Pozen, Krueger, Khawar, Oliva Martínez Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Commissioners Bryant, Davis, Weigel Attest: _____________________________________________ (Human Rights Commission Staff Liaison)
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: (20250324-008): Budget Proposal for a High School to Technical/Trade School to City Workforce Pipeline Program Motioned by: Chair Duhon Seconded by: Vice Chair Zeidan WHEREAS, The City of Austin has implemented programs like the Austin Youth Development (AYD) Program, which provides youth development services focusing on personal development and employability skills for youth aged 17-22, including educational and developmental activities within a year-long City work experience. WHEREAS, The Economic Development Department’s Workforce Development Program manages multiple, multiyear service delivery contracts with local nonprofit organizations to provide free or low-cost workforce training to individuals pursuing self-sustaining employment. WHEREAS, The Austin Chamber of Commerce supports funding for student success and programs that enhance workforce training, including a high school internship program with Austin ISD. WHEREAS, This initiative directly supports the mission of the Austin Human Rights Commission by promoting equal employment opportunities and reducing systemic barriers to workforce access for historically marginalized communities. WHEREAS, Despite these initiatives, there remains a need for a structured pipeline that directly connects high school students to technical/trade schools and subsequently to employment within City of Austin departments, addressing both workforce needs and providing clear career paths for students. WHEREAS, Other cities have successfully implemented similar programs. For instance: ● Philadelphia introduced a program that gives job priority to students in trade schools, leading to successful hires within city departments. ● New Orleans established the New Orleans Career Center (NOCC), offering career and technical education to high school students, providing training and certifications in fields such as building trades, culinary arts, digital media, and healthcare. ● Chicago’s City Colleges launched the College to Careers program, partnering with industry leaders to align curricula with workforce needs, effectively creating a pipeline from education to employment in high-demand sectors. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: The Human Rights Commission of the City of Austin recommends that the City Council allocate $2.5 million to establish a High School to Technical/Trade School to City Workforce Pipeline Program to: 1. Create Paid Apprenticeships & Pre-Apprenticeship Programs – $1,000,000 a. Establish paid internships and apprenticeships within city departments for high school juniors and seniors interested in skilled trades. b. Provide summer pre-apprenticeship programs for students exploring public works, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, cybersecurity, transportation, emergency services, and other high-demand fields. c. Offer stipends and tuition assistance for students enrolling in trade schools and certification programs at Austin Community College …
Human Rights Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, March 5, 2025 HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, March 24, 2025 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, March 24, 2025, at 301 W. 2nd St., Boards & Commissions Room, in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon, Chair Gabriella Zeidan, Vice Chair Jeffrey Clemmons Harriet Kirsh Pozen Mariana Krueger Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Muneeb “Meebs” Aslam Maryam Khawar Tannya Oliva Martinez PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on February 24, 2025. The approval of the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on February 24, 2025 was postponed until the April meeting on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Commissioner Clemmons’ second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Oliva Martinez was off the dais. Commissioners Bryant, Davis, and Weigel were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Briefing regarding Austin Police Department’s officer training, departmental enforcement of non-discrimination policies, community engagement efforts, protest responses, and the March 2 incident on 6th Street. Briefing by Lee Rogers, Patrol Assistant Chief; Michael 1 Human Rights Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, March 5, 2025 Chancellor, Downtown Area Command Commander; Fausto Rodriguez, Community Engagement Executive Lieutenant; and Michael Wilmore-Crumrine, Child Abuse Sergeant, Austin Police Department. Briefing by Lisa Davis, Chief of Police; Lee Rogers, Patrol Assistant Chief; Michael Chancellor, Downtown Area Command Commander; Fausto Rodriguez, Community Engagement Executive Lieutenant; and Michael Wilmore-Crumrine, Child Abuse Sergeant, Austin Police Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation regarding the status of gentrification in the Eastern Crescent of Austin. Presentation by Noé Elias and Alexia LeClerq, Community Powered ATX. Presentation by Celine Rendon, Noé Elias, and Alexia LeClerq, Community Powered ATX. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 3. Recommendations from the Budget Working Group regarding commission budget recommendations for the City of Austin 2025-26 Fiscal Year. Recommendations were provided by members of the Budget Working Group. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve a recommendation on the FY2025-26 Budget for Enhanced Climate Resilience in Austin. The recommendation was amended to strike “Establish 15” and insert “Ensure the continued funding, and expansion of, the neighbor resilience hub pilot program in the Eastern Crescent” on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Vice Chair Zeidan’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Bryant, Davis, and Weigel were absent. The recommendation was amended to strike “Tree Planting Program: Implement a comprehensive …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE HIV PLANNING COUNCIL MONDAY, MARCH 24, 2025, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, RM. 1203 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the HIV PLANNING COUNCIL may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: Click here to join the meeting Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone or Teams. 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 to speak, call or email the Office of Support, (737)-825-1684 or hivplanningcouncil@austintexas.gov CURRENT HIV PLANNING COUNCIL MEMBERS: Kelle’ Martin, Chair Marquis Goodwin, Vice Chair, Conflicted Kristina McRae-Thompson, Secretary Alicia Alston Joe Anderson, Conflicted Liza Bailey Aran Belani Zachery Garay, Conflicted, (on leave) Ashley Garling Judith Hassan Benito Juraez Sukriti Mareddy AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up no later than noon on 3/23/2025 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 HIV Planning Council regular meeting on February 24, 2025 CONFLICT OF INTEREST DECLARATIONS 2. Members will declare conflicts of interest with relevant agenda items, service categories, 7. Discussion of HUD Presentation for Community Participation for the Action Plan 8. Discussion of Y1 Plan for Needs Assessment 2026-2031 and/or service standards. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Office of Support Staff Briefing 4. Administrative Agent Staff Briefing 5. Part B Staff Briefing DISCUSSION ITEMS 6. Introductions/Announcements COMMITTEE UPDATES 9. Care Strategies and Engagement Committee 10. Finance and Assessment Committee FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 11. Discussion of workplan calendar and social calendar ADJOURNMENT Indicative of action items 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. TTY users’ route through Relay Texas at 711. For More Information on the HIV Planning Council, please contact Rashana Raggs at (737)-825-1684.
REGULAR MEETING of the DESIGN COMMISSION MONDAY, MARCH 24, 2025, 6:00 PM PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1405 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Design 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, call or email Nicole Corona, at 512-974-3146 or nicole.corona@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Jon Salinas, Chair Josue Meiners, Vice Chair David Carroll Nkiru Gelles Kevin Howard Conners Ladner AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Ben Luckens Marissa McKinney Evgenia “Jenny” Murkes Brita Wallace Brendan Wittstruck The first five 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 Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on February 24, 2025. 1. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Discussion and action to recommend to City Council whether the project AUS West Garage, located at 2921 1/2 Presidential Boulevard, complies with the City Design and 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Sustainability Standards. Presented by Mari Boren, Capital Delivery Services, Cris Ruebush, PGAL, and Shelby Horton, Dunaway. Discussion and action to recommend to City Council whether the project Austin Convention Center Redevelopment, located at 500 East 3rd Street, complies with the City Design and Sustainability Standards. Presented by Riley Triggs, Capital Delivery Services, and Larry Speck and Josh Coleman, LMN/Page. Select a representative and alternate representative to serve on the Joint Sustainability Committee per City Code § 2-1-206. Discussion and action to select Downtown Density Bonus Program projects from the past ten years to conduct analysis on outcomes. Sponsors: Chair Salinas and Vice Chair Meiners. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES Update from the representative of Urban Design Guidelines Working Group regarding the meeting on February 28, 2025. Update from the representative of the Joint Sustainability Committee regarding the meeting on February 26, 2025. Update from the representative of the South Central Waterfront Advisory Board regarding the meeting on March 17, 2025. Update from the representative of the Downtown Commission regarding …
1. DESIGN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2025 The Design Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, February 24, 2025, located at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive, in Austin, Texas. Chair Salinas called the Design Commission meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Jon Salinas, Chair David Carroll Conners Ladner Ben Luckens Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Josue Meiners, Vice Chair Nkiru Gelles Kevin Howard Marissa McKinney – Commissioner McKinney joined the meeting at 6:22 p.m. Brita Wallace Brendan Wittsruck PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on January 27, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of 01/27/2025 were approved on Commissioner Ladner’s motion, Chair Salinas’ second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner McKinney was off the dais. One vacancy on the dais. STAFF BRIEFINGS 1 2. 4. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Staff briefing regarding the process for corridor planning. Presented by Michelle Marx, Transportation and Public Works. Sponsors: Vice Chair Meiners and Commissioner Carroll. The presentation was made by Michelle Marx, Transportation and Public Works. Discussion and action to recommend the Austin Core Transportation Plan to City Council. Presented by Michelle Marx, Transportation and Public Works. The motion to recommend the Austin Core Transportation Plan to City Council was approved with the following friendly amendments on Commissioner Lucken’s motion, Commissioner Carroll’s second on a 10-0 vote. One vacancy on the dais. The friendly amendment from Commissioner Howard was to recommend that street trees be mandatory. This was accepted by the maker of the motion, Commissioner Lukens, and Commissioner Carroll, who seconded the motion. The friendly amendment from Commissioner Wittstruck was to recommend the implementation plan include the green cost and green infrastructure estimates be part of the base estimates and not a line item. This was accepted by the maker of the motion, Commissioner Lukens, and Commissioner Carroll, who seconded the motion. The friendly amendment from Commissioner Wittstruck was to recommend coordination with TxDOT to reduce speed limits leading into downtown. This was accepted by the maker of the motion, Commissioner Lukens, and Commissioner Carroll, who seconded the motion. The friendly amendment from Commissioner Wittstruck was to recommend that the projects in the Austin Core Transportation Plan be brought to the Design Commission. This was accepted by the maker of the motion, Commissioner Lukens, and Commissioner Carroll, who …
WEST GARAGEAUSTIN-BERGSTROM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTDESIGN COMMISSION | MARCH 24, 2025 AGENDA: • SCHEDULE OVERVIEW • PROGRAM REVIEW • DESIGN OVERVIEW • ENTRANCE ROADWAY ALTERATIONS & TRAFFIC MODELING • EARLY OPENING PLAN • SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW AGENDA WEST GARAGEAUSTIN-BERGSTROM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTDESIGN COMMISSION | MARCH 24, 2025 Spaces open by mid 2026 GOAL: SOLUTION: Break ground March 2025 RECAP OF EVENTS: July 23, 2o24 First OAC: August 19, 2o24 90% civil submission to DSD: 30% Submittal: September 27, 2o24 Civil submission for completeness: September 27, 2o24 Completeness approved: October 8, 2o24 Civil formal review start: October 14, 2o24 November 22, 2o24 60% Submittal: Subcontractor Outreach Meetings: November 19 and December 4, 2024 and Feb 19, 2025 January 14, 2025 GMP submitted to City: January 31, 2025 90% Submittal: February 28, 2025 Ground Breaking Ceremony: Early March 2025 Site clearing activity: March 24, 2025 Site Development Permit Target: March 24, 2025 Issue for Building Permit: GOAL & PLAN RECAP: PAST EVENTS WEST GARAGEAUSTIN-BERGSTROM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTDESIGN COMMISSION | MARCH 24, 2025 LOT B GOOGLE EARTH IMAGE WITH SITE LOCATION WEST GARAGEAUSTIN-BERGSTROM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTDESIGN COMMISSION | MARCH 24, 2025 Program Item Current Program Parking Level / Count 7 Levels / 7,037 spaces Ramping Stacked speed ramp assembly Structural System Cast-in-place concrete Fire Sprinkler System Fire sprinkler system and standpipe EV Chargers 16 EV Chargers on Ground Level Parksmart Certfication Parksmart Certification; coring matrix being is at rear of presentation Connection to Blue Garage Covered Pedestrian Bridge connecting Southeast corner of Level 3 West Garage to Northeast corner of Level 3 Blue Garage. Roadway access to Garage A new dedicated roadway that enters Garage and accesses speed ramp in southwest corner. PROGRAM OVERVIEW WEST GARAGEAUSTIN-BERGSTROM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTDESIGN COMMISSION | MARCH 24, 2025 36" SD 24" S D 24" S D IT & ELEC DUCTBANKS 24" S D 24" S D 24" S D 48" SD 5 0 4 24" S D 48" SD 24" S D 24" S D 24" S D UTILITY CORRIDOR COMM & ELEC ) P Y T ( I E T L - L E ) P Y T ( E IT L - L E ) P Y T ( I E T L - L E 5 0 6 5 0 4 ) P Y T ( I E T L - L E ) P Y T ( E IT L - L E UTILITY CORRIDOR COMM & ELEC 5 0 …
AUSTIN CONVENTION CENTER REDEVELOPMENT DESIGN COMMISSION PRESENTATION SPO-2025-001BC MARCH 24, 2025 PROJECT SCOPE LMN/Page Joint VentureCONFIDENTIAL March 24, 2025 BY THE NUMBERS CONSTRUCTION COST $1.26B RENTABLE SPACE AREAS EXISTING CONVENTION CENTER 365,000 SF NEW CONVENTION CENTER INDOOR + OUTDOOR 550,000 + 70,000 SF FUTURE EXPANSION 140,000 SF LMN/Page Joint VentureCONFIDENTIAL March 24, 2025 PROJECT GOALS March 24, 2025 CONFIDENTIAL LMN/Page Joint Venture AUSTIN CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 20210610-096 The City Council seeks to work with the prime architecture firm capable of delivering a world class design befitting a city of Austin’s size and prominence. The Convention Center design shall incorporate the most innovative ideas in programming and placemaking and shall aim to create a civic building that draws and serves Austinites as well as visitors. The City council affirms its intention that the convention Center be, like its companion civic building to the west, the Austin Central Library, a landmark of great distinction, a bustling and vital public gathering place, and a point of pride for the community. March 24, 2025 CONFIDENTIAL LMN/Page Joint Venture THE AUSTIN MATRIX UNIQUELY AUSTIN Slide 9 | July 24, 2024 CONFIDENTIAL DRAFT LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureCONFIDENTIAL March 24, 2025 ARTS + CULTURE + MUSIC + ENTERTAINMENT CITY LMN/Page Joint VentureCONFIDENTIAL March 24, 2025 FESTIVAL CITY LMN/Page Joint VentureCONFIDENTIAL March 24, 2025 TECH CITY LMN/Page Joint VentureCONFIDENTIAL March 24, 2025 URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES March 24, 2025 CONFIDENTIAL LMN/Page Joint Venture URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES AREA WIDE AW.1 CREATE DENSE DEVELOPMENT AW.2 CREATE MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT AW.3 LIMIT DEVELOPMENT WHICH CLOSES DOWNTOWN STREETS N/A AW.4 BUFFER NEIGHBORHOOD EDGES AW.5 INCORPORATE CIVIC ART IN BOTH PUBLIC AND PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT AW.6 PROTECT IMPORTANT PUBLIC VIEWS AW.7 AVOID HISTORICAL MISINTERPRETATIONS AW.8 RESPECT ADJACENT HISTORIC BUILDINGS AW.9 ACKNOWLEDGE ROOFTOPS ARE SEEN FROM OTHER BUILDINGS AND STREET AW.10 AVOID THE DEVELOPMENT OF THEME ENVIRONMENTS AW.11 RECYCLE EXISTING BUILDING STOCK March 24, 2025 CONFIDENTIAL LMN/Page Joint Venture URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES PUBLIC STREETSCAPE PS.1 PROTECT THE PEDESTRIAN WHERE THE BUILDING MEETS THE STREET PS.2 MINIMIZE CURB CUTS PS.3 CREATE THE POTENTIAL FOR TWO-WAY STREETS PS.4 REINFORCE PEDESTRIAN ACTIVITY PS.5 ENHANCE KEY TRANSIT STOPS PS.6 ENHANCE THE STREETSCAPE PS.7 AVOID CONFLICTS BETWEEN PEDESTRIANS AND UTILITY EQUIPMENT PS.8 INSTALL STREET TREES PS.9 PROVIDE PEDESTRIAN SCALED-LIGHTING PS.10 PROVIDE PROTECTION FROM CARS/ PROMOTE CURBSIDE PARKING PS.11 SCREEN MECHANICAL AND UTILITY EQUIPMENT PS.12 PROVIDE GENEROUS STREET-LEVEL WINDOWS PS.13 INSTALL PEDESTRIAN-FRIENDLY MATERIALS AT STREET LEVEL LMN/Page Joint VentureCONFIDENTIAL March …
RED RIVER STREET SECTION PROPERTY LINE TREE GRATE PARKING OR UNLOADING SIDEWALK 10'-0" PLANTING 3'-0" STREET TREE 6'-0" RED RIVER STREET PARKING SAR AVEZ FOUNDATION WALL SITE SECTION 11 1/8" = 1'-0" KEY LMN/Page Joint VentureCONFIDENTIAL March 24, 2025 RED RIVER STREET VIEW AT WESTERN SIDEWALK LMN/Page Joint VentureCONFIDENTIAL March 24, 2025 TRINITY STREET SECTION BOLLARD TACTILE WARNING TACTILE WARNING SITE SECTION 3 1/8" = 1'-0" 0 4' 8' 16' 12-4" SIDEWALK 7'-0" STREET TREE 8'-0" 8'-0" SIDEWALK SIDEWALK 11'-0" BUS DROP-OFF 8'-0" BUS DROP-OFF 8'-0" SIDEWALK 25'-0" FIRE LANE BERMED PLANTING AREA BERMED PLANTING AREA EVENT PLAZA PROPERTY LINE TREE GRATE TP 471.5' TP 469' ROOT BARRIER TRINITY STREET 4'-9" 10'-0" SIDEWALK STAIR 6'-0" STREET TREE 5'-0" FOUNDATION WALL STAIR & BERM BEYOND OUTDOOR EVENT SPACE EVENT PLAZA SITE SECTION 2 1/8" = 1'-0" 0 4' 8' 16' SITE SECTION 1 1/8" = 1'-0" LMN/Page Joint VentureCONFIDENTIAL March 24, 2025 DESIGN PARAMETERS THE HUB WEST AND EAST • Reconcile the Downtown Urban Grid • Break the scale of the block • Refl ect the Character of the neighborhood • Respond to the Existing Urban Context • Reinforce Project Features and Alignments • Neches as Interior Organizing Element • Unique Character for Each Street Edge: 2nd, 3rd, Trinity, Red River FLEXHALL RAVINE EXHALL TRINITY NECHES RED RIVER N A B R U I E N V A R E P A C S D N A L October 10, 2024 October 9, 2024 CONFIDENTIAL DRAFT CONFIDENTIAL DRAFT LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureCONFIDENTIAL March 24, 2025 DESIGN PARAMETERS THE PASEO THE PASEO • Re-establish Porosity of Downtown Urban Grid • Multi-story Urban to Landscape Connector (2nd St to Waller Creek) • Indoor/Outdoor Experience • Celebrate the Intersectionof 2nd and Neches Celebrate the intersection of 2nd St and Neches views views views PASEO EXHALL loading TRINITY NECHES RED RIVER N A B R U views E P A C S D N A L October 10, 2024 October 9, 2024 February 25, 2025 CONFIDENTIAL DRAFT CONFIDENTIAL DRAFT LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureCONFIDENTIAL March 24, 2025 THE HUB WEST AND EAST + THE PASEO SITE PLAN LMN/Page Joint VentureCONFIDENTIAL March 24, 2025 3RD STREET SITE PLAN OUTDOOR EVENT SPACE 4 THE WAREHOUSE 5 3 T E E R T S Y T N R T I I 1 1 3RD STREET PLAZA …
C i t y o f A u s t i n Design Commission Project Review Application Photo courtesy of Jorge E. Rousselin C i t y o f A u s t i n Design Commission Project Review Application The Design Commission provides advisory recommendations to the City Council to assist in developing public policy and to promote excellence in the design and development of the urban environment. The Design Commission reviews three types of projects: 1. City projects (see page 3 for process) The Commission reviews all municipal buildings and associated site plans to ensure they demonstrate compliance with city design and sustainability standards (Council Resolution No. 20071129-046), including those seeking Subchapter E Design Standards Alternative Equivalent Compliance (AEC) (Council Resolution No. 20100923-086). 2. Density Bonus projects (see page 4 for process) The Commission reviews density bonus projects for substantial compliance with the Urban Design Guidelines for Austin in accordance with the Gatekeeper requirements of LDC 25-2-586 for the Downtown Density Bonus Program. 3. Advisory Recommendations for Private projects (see page 3 for process) The Commission will consider Project Review Applications from private projects during its regularly scheduled monthly public meetings and may issue an advisory recommendation in the form of a Project Review Letter to the Applicant. Page 2 Design Commission - Project Review ApplicationPhoto courtesy of Jorge E. Rousselin This Project Review Application must be submitted before your project can be presented to the Design Commission for their review. Design Commission requests project be presented in their Conceptual/ Schematic Design phase. This application primarily addresses inhabited buildings and structures and their effect on the public realm; please refer to Appendix A for infrastructure type projects. The Commission’s review of projects is based on the planning/design principles in the Urban Design Guidelines for Austin. Ensure that all applicable principles are addressed in the application questions and in your presentation. The Design Commission supports the vision and principles of Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan, especially those that affect the urban environment and fabric. All projects should consider this vision and principles, many of which are similar to the Urban Design Guidelines. Refer to Appendix C for the most pertinent sections of Imagine Austin. The Design Commission expects the applicant’s design team to present their project with those most knowledgeable and encourages the inclusion of sub-consultants at the presentation, when deemed necessary. EXHIBITS TO PRESENT 1. Completed Project Review Application …
BLOCK 40 ZONING: CBD PUBLIC SQUARE ZONING: CBD BLOCK 39 ZONING: CBD BLOCK 38 ZONING: CBD T E E R T S S E H C E N 0' R.O.W.) (8 EAST 4TH STREET (80' R.O.W.) BLOCK 32 ZONING: CBD BLOCK 33 ZONING: CBD BLOCK 34 ZONING: CBD BLOCK 35 ZONING: CBD EAST 4TH STREET S E H C E N T E E R T S A F T E E R T S Y T N R T I I B EAST 3RD STREET EAST 2ND STREET T E E R T S R E V R D E R I E EAST 3RD STREET EAST 2ND STREET C D EAST 1ST STREET KEY MAP N.T.S. LEGEND EXISTING DESCRIPTION /// /// /// /// /// /// /// / / / /// /// EAST 3RD STREET /// /// /// /// /// /// /// l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l BLOCK 13 ZONING: CBD /// l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l 00 l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l T E E R T R S E D RIV E R l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / 0 0 EAST 2ND STREET (80' R.O.W.) BLOCK 11 ZONING: CBD-CURE EAST 3RD STREET (80' R.O.W.) BLOCK 16 ZONING: CBD T E E R T Y S RINIT T 0' R.O.W.) (8 BLOCK 15 ZONING: CBD BLOCK 14 ZONING: CBD EAST 2ND STREET (80' R.O.W.) BLOCK 8 ZONING: CBD BLOCK 9 ZONING: CBD BLOCK 10 ZONING: CBD K E E R R C E L L A W /// /// /// /// /// /// /// /// /// /// /// /// /// /// /// /// /// /// /// /// ZONING: CBD-CURE /// ZONING: CBD-CURE EAST 1ST STREET (80' R.O.W.) /// / / / / / / / / / 0 0 /// / / / / / / /// M B /// / / / / / / …
DDBP Case Tracking Project Case Number Project Location In Date Bonus Request (FAR) Bonus Request (Height in ft Bonused Sq. Ft. Status of Project Design Commission (Working Group Date) Date Reviewed by Design Commission Design Commission Outcome Aspen Heights Apartments (now Rise) SP-2013-0434C 805 Nueces Street (516 W. 8th Street) 11/1/2013 8 86,840 Approved with Memo 5th & West SP-2013-0454C 501 W. 5th Street 1/31/2014 19.7 194,854 Approved with Memo 11/25/2013 2/24/2014 Recommendation of Compliance with additional recommendations (see letter) Recommendation of Non-Compliance with list of means for compliance (see letter) 7th & Congress (Element & Aloft Hotels) SP-2014-0068C 619 & 621 Congress Ave. (109 E. 7th Street) 5/15/2014 21.2 145,977 Approved with Memo 5/27/2014 Recommendation of Compliance 5th & Brazos SP-2014-0406C 501 Brazos 10/3/2014 19.7 408,999 Approved with Memo 10/27/2014 Recommendation of Compliance Third and Shoal SP-2015-0346C 607 W. 3rd 4/4/2016 10.2 77,720 Approved with Memo 4/25/2016 Recommendation of Compliance SP-2016-0106C 1201 Red River 1/25/2017 133,140 Approved with Memo 3/27/2017 Recommendation of Compliance 405 Colorado SP-2016-0260C 405 Colorado 7/21/2016 85,634 Approved with Memo 1/9/2017 4/24/2017 & 5/22/2017 Recommendation of Non-Compliance SP-2016-0300C 304 E. Cesar Chavez 10/6/2016 243,677 Approved with Memo 05/22/2017 & 6/05/2017 Recommendation of Compliance 48 East Ave Apts SP-2016-0391C 48 East Avenue 8/9/2016 125,055 Approved with Memo 1/23/2017 Recommendation of Compliance SP-2016-0452C 1400 Lavaca 10/3/2016 4.11 66,600 Approved with Memo 11/28/2016 Recommendation of Compliance Town Lake Lofts SP-2017-0107C 16 N I-35 Service Dr 7/22/2016 15 109,214 Approved with Memo 12/19/2016 Recommendation of Compliance 700 11th St SP-2017-0166C 700 11th St 9/7/2017 10.43 85,702 Approved with Memo 10/23/2017 Motion for Recommendation of Compliance failed for lack of votes 6th + Guadalupe SP-2017-0301C.F1 600 Guadalupe Street 5/24/2018 565,109 Approved with Memo 8/27/2018 Recommendation of Compliance Block 71 (UT System Property) SP-2017-0311C 200 W. 6th St 10/26/2017 1,296,080 Approved with Memo 11/27/2017 Recommendation of Compliance 300 Colorado SP-2018-0096C 300 Colorado Street 5/22/2018 15.71 191,424 Approved with Memo 6/25/2018 Recommendation of Compliance 91 Red River SP-2018-0111C 91-93 Red River Street 7/5/2018 13.12 164,768 Approved with Memo 9/24/2018 Recommendation of Compliance Waterloo Park Tower Marriott at Cesar Chavez 1400 Lavaca (now SXSW Center) 200 430 328 420 391 371 363 381 342 171 352 344 838 555 455 326 15 13 15 15 25 25 City of Austin - Planning Zoning Department - Urban Design Division - December 2018 DDBP Case Tracking The Travis Ph.1 SP-2018-0159C 80 Red River Street 2/22/2019 - …
AUSTIN CONVENTION CENTER REDEVELOPMENT DESIGN COMMISSION PRESENTATION SPO-2025-001BC MARCH 24, 2025 PROJECT SCOPE LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 BY THE NUMBERS CONSTRUCTION COST $1.26B RENTABLE SPACE AREAS EXISTING CONVENTION CENTER 365,000 SF NEW CONVENTION CENTER INDOOR + OUTDOOR 550,000 + 70,000 SF FUTURE EXPANSION 140,000 SF LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 PROJECT GOALS LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 AUSTIN CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 20210610-096 The City Council seeks to work with the prime architecture firm capable of delivering a world class design befitting a city of Austin’s size and prominence. The Convention Center design shall incorporate the most innovative ideas in programming and placemaking and shall aim to create a civic building that draws and serves Austinites as well as visitors. The City council affirms its intention that the convention Center be, like its companion civic building to the west, the Austin Central Library, a landmark of great distinction, a bustling and vital public gathering place, and a point of pride for the community. LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 THE AUSTIN MATRIX UNIQUELY AUSTIN Slide 9 | July 24, 2024 CONFIDENTIAL DRAFT LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 ARTS + CULTURE + MUSIC + ENTERTAINMENT CITY LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 FESTIVAL CITY LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 TECH CITY LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES AREA WIDE AW.1 CREATE DENSE DEVELOPMENT AW.2 CREATE MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT AW.3 LIMIT DEVELOPMENT WHICH CLOSES DOWNTOWN STREETS N/A AW.4 BUFFER NEIGHBORHOOD EDGES AW.5 INCORPORATE CIVIC ART IN BOTH PUBLIC AND PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT AW.6 PROTECT IMPORTANT PUBLIC VIEWS AW.7 AVOID HISTORICAL MISINTERPRETATIONS AW.8 RESPECT ADJACENT HISTORIC BUILDINGS AW.9 ACKNOWLEDGE ROOFTOPS ARE SEEN FROM OTHER BUILDINGS AND STREET AW.10 AVOID THE DEVELOPMENT OF THEME ENVIRONMENTS AW.11 RECYCLE EXISTING BUILDING STOCK LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES PUBLIC STREETSCAPE PS.1 PROTECT THE PEDESTRIAN WHERE THE BUILDING MEETS THE STREET PS.2 MINIMIZE CURB CUTS PS.3 CREATE THE POTENTIAL FOR TWO-WAY STREETS PS.4 REINFORCE PEDESTRIAN ACTIVITY PS.5 ENHANCE KEY TRANSIT STOPS PS.6 ENHANCE THE STREETSCAPE PS.7 AVOID CONFLICTS BETWEEN PEDESTRIANS AND UTILITY EQUIPMENT PS.8 INSTALL STREET TREES PS.9 PROVIDE PEDESTRIAN SCALED-LIGHTING PS.10 PROVIDE PROTECTION FROM CARS/ PROMOTE CURBSIDE PARKING PS.11 SCREEN MECHANICAL AND UTILITY EQUIPMENT PS.12 PROVIDE GENEROUS STREET-LEVEL WINDOWS PS.13 INSTALL PEDESTRIAN-FRIENDLY MATERIALS AT STREET LEVEL LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES PLAZAS AND OPEN SPACE PS.1 TREAT THE FOUR SQUARES WITH …
RECONNECTING AUSTIN LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 UNPRECEDENTED OPPORTUNITIES UNPRECEDENTED OPPORTUNITIES • • • • • • • • • • • February 25, 2025 LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 RECONNECTION OF THE GRID SCALE AND POROSITY RECONNECTION OF THE GRID SCALE AND POROSITY February 25, 2025 LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 THE BLOCKS THE BLOCKS February 25, 2025 LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 INTERSECTION OF PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE INTERSECTION OF PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE February 25, 2025 LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 URBAN TO LANDSCAPE URBAN TO LANDSCAPE URBAN / LANDSCAPE February 25, 2025 Slide 17 | September 5, 2024 CONFIDENTIAL DRAFT LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 URBAN TO URBAN TO LANDSCAPE LANDSCAPE February 25, 2025 LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 INDOOR TO OUTDOOR INDOOR TO OUTDOOR INSIDE / OUTSIDE February 25, 2025 Slide 18 | September 5, 2024 CONFIDENTIAL DRAFT LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 THE NEW BLOCKS INDOOR TO OUTDOOR THE RAVINE VERTICAL CONNECTIONS EX HALL TO FLEX HALL LINKS TO NATURE AND CREEK THE PASEO ACTIVATED PROMENADE CONNECTOR URBANE AND ORDERED LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 TRIO OF LANDMARK BUILDINGS CENTRAL LIBRARY CITY HALL CONVENTION CENTER LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 ARCHITECTURALLY INTEGRATED ART LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 UNPRECEDENTED SCALE ~$17.7M TOTAL INVESTMENT Austin’s largest single investment in public art to date ARCHITECTURAL INTEGRATION 10 artists selected during Schematic Design of building for architecturally-integrated art Additional AIPP artwork will follow more traditional procurement timeline LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 SELECTED ARTISTS Aaron Michalovic Alejandra Almuelle Carmen Rangel Dave McClinton Dawn Okoro Deborah Roberts Diego Miro-Rivera Jenaro Goode Rex Hamilton Tsz Kam LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 PRELIMINARY LOCATIONS WAREHOUSE CORNER WAREHOUSE FLEX HALL PORTALS HUB WEST HUB EAST REGISTRATION PASEO SOFFIT BALLROOM SHADE CANOPY LEVEL 03 PREFUNCTION LIGHTING BALLROOM SOUTH STONE FABRICATION LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 DESIGN APPROACH LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 GROUND LEVEL PROGRAM 1 GROUND LEVEL • CONVENTION SPACES INTEGRATED WITH SURROUNDING STREETS • CENTRAL MULTISTORY LOBBY CONNECTS TO UPPER AND LOWER LEVELS • SIGNATURE TIMBER BALLROOM AND LOBBY STRUCTURE • MEETING ROOMS AND BALLROOM WITH CONNECTIONS TO OUTDOOR SPACES • MULTI FUNCTIONAL OUTDOOR EVENT SPACES February 25, 2025 LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 PROGRAM STACKED WITH VERTICAL CONNECTIONS STACKED …
DESIGN COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250324-002 March 24, 2025 AUS West Garage Vice Chair Meiners Seconded By: Commissioner Gelles Date: Subject: Motioned By: Recommendation The Design Commission recommends to City Council that the project AUS West Garage, located at 2921 1/2 Presidential Boulevard, complies with the City Design and Sustainability Standards with the inclusion of solar array, exploring water retention, increased electric vehicle capacity, increased vertical or horizontal vegetation to mitigate the heat island effect, and to encourage safer, intuitive paths for pedestrians Rationale: The Design Commission agreed that the project as presented met the City Design and Sustainability Standards with the inclusions outlined above. These inclusions are instrumental in meeting the Shared Values for Urban Areas as outlined in the Urban Design Guidelines with specific reference to sustainability. However, the quantity of electric vehicle charging stations was noted as being too small of a percentage of the overall proposed parking count. It was also discussed that a more intuitive and safe passage of pedestrians should be provided from the ground level to the terminals especially when crossing vehicular drives Vote For: Chair Salinas, Vice Chair Meiners, Commissioner Carroll, Commissioner Gelles, 6-0-1 Commissioner McKinney, Commissioner Murkes Commissioner Wittstruck Commissioner Howard, Commissioner Ladner, Commissioner Luckens, Commissioner Wallace Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: Jon Salinas, AIA Chair – Design Commission 1 of 1
DESIGN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, MARCH 24, 2025 The Design Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, March 24, 2025, at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Salinas called the Design Commission meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Jon Salinas, Chair Josue Meiners, Vice Chair David Carroll Nkiru Gelles Evgenia “Jenny” Murkes Brendan Wittstruck Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Marissa McKinney PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on February 24, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of 02/24/2025 were approved on Vice Chair Meiners’ motion, Chair Salinas’ second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Murkes was off the dais. Commissioners Howard, Ladner, Luckens, and Wallace were absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Discussion and action to recommend to City Council whether the project AUS West Garage, located at 2921 1/2 Presidential Boulevard, complies with the City Design and Sustainability 1 Standards. Presented by Mari Boren, Capital Delivery Services, Cris Ruebush, PGAL, and Shelby Horton, Dunaway. There was a motion to recommend to City Council that the project AUS West Garage, located at 2921 1/2 Presidential Boulevard, complies with the City Design and Sustainability Standards. There was a substitute motion to recommend to City Council that the project AUS West Garage, located at 2921 1/2 Presidential Boulevard, complies with the City Design and Sustainability Standards with the inclusion of solar array, exploring water retention, increased electric vehicle capacity, increased vertical or horizontal vegetation to mitigate the heat island effect, and to encourage safer, intuitive paths for pedestrians was approved on Vice Chair Meiners’ motion, Commissioner Gelles’ second on a 6-0-1 vote. Commissioner Wittstruck recused from this item due to a conflict of interest and left the dais. Commissioners Howard, Ladner, Luckens, and Wallace were absent. Discussion and action to recommend to City Council whether the project Austin Convention Center Redevelopment, located at 500 East 3rd Street, complies with the City Design and Sustainability Standards. Presented by Riley Triggs, Capital Delivery Services, and Larry Speck and Josh Coleman, LMN/Page. The motion to recommend to City Council that the project Austin Convention Center Redevelopment, located at 500 East 3rd Street, complies with the City Design and Sustainability Standards failed on Vice Chair Meiners’ motion, Chair Salinas’ second on a 4-1-2 vote. Those members voting aye were: Chair Salinas …
REGULAR MEETING of the ARTS COMMISSION March 24, 2025, at 6:00 PM Austin Energy, Mueller Assembly Rm 1111a (115). 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723 Some members of the ARTS 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, call or email Jesús Varela at jesus.varela@austintexas.gov or at 512-974-2444. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Celina Zisman - Chair, Heidi Schmalbach - Vice Chair, Keyheira Keys, Monica Maldonado, Felipe Garza, Gina Houston, Acia Gray, Faiza Kracheni, Amy Mok, Nagavalli Medicharla AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 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 Arts Commission Regular Meeting on January 27, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Report of the Art in Public Places Liaison concerning actions taking during the March 3rd meeting of the Art in Public Places Panel by Commissioner Maldonado 3. Presentation by Board Members of Austin Creative Alliance on the most recent petition to Council 4. Staff briefing regarding an update on the Hotel Occupancy Tax by Jesús Pantel, Cultural 5. Staff briefing on the Cultural Arts Funding Programs by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding STAFF BRIEFINGS Funding Supervisor Supervisor DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS WORKING GROUP UPDATES 6. Update from joint Arts/Music Commission Working Group on Urban Core Issues with Commissioners Gray, and Schmalbach (chair). 7. Update from the Community Feedback on most recent release of the Cultural Funding Programs Working Group with Commissioner’s Kracheni, Maldonado, Gray, Houston, Medicharla (chair) 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 call Jesús Varela at the Economic Development Department, at 512-974-2444, for additional information; TTY users route through …
3/5/25, 10:51 AM Mail - Zisman, Celina - BC - Outlook Outlook RESPONSE REQUESTED and Invitation to March 24th Arts Commission Meeting. From Gray, Acia - BC <BC-Acia.Gray@austintexas.gov> Date Thu 2/27/2025 5:21 PM To dewybrooks@gmail.com <dewybrooks@gmail.com>; djronan@gmail.com <djronan@gmail.com>; sbukowski@bukowskilawfirm.com <sbukowski@bukowskilawfirm.com>; AJ@ventanaballet.com <AJ@ventanaballet.com>; mglavigne@gmail.com <mglavigne@gmail.com>; anu.naimpally@gmail.com <anu.naimpally@gmail.com>; Jessica Nero <jessica@bluelapislight.org>; rommelsulit@gmail.com <rommelsulit@gmail.com> Cc Watson, Kirk <Kirk.Watson@austintexas.gov>; Harper-Madison, Natasha <Natasha.Madison@austintexas.gov>; Fuentes, Vanessa <Vanessa.Fuentes@austintexas.gov>; Velasquez, Jose <Jose.Velasquez@austintexas.gov>; Vela, Jose "Chito" <Chito.Vela@austintexas.gov>; Alter, Ryan <Ryan.Alter@austintexas.gov>; Laine, Krista <krista.laine@austintexas.gov>; Siegel, Mike <mike.siegel@austintexas.gov>; Ellis, Paige <Paige.Ellis@austintexas.gov>; Qadri, Zo <Zo.Qadri@austintexas.gov>; Duchen, Marc <marc.duchen@austintexas.gov>; Broadnax, TC <TC.Broadnax@austintexas.gov>; Mok, Amy - BC <bc- Amy.Mok@austintexas.gov>; Maldonado, Monica - BC <BC-Monica.Maldonado@austintexas.gov>; Schmalbach, Heidi - BC <BC-Heidi.Schmalbach@austintexas.gov>; Gray, Acia - BC <BC- Acia.Gray@austintexas.gov>; Medicharla, Nagavalli - BC <BC-Nagavalli.Medicharla@austintexas.gov>; Zisman, Celina - BC <BC-Celina.Zisman@austintexas.gov>; Kracheni, Faiza - BC <BC-Faiza.Kracheni@austintexas.gov>; Garza, Felipe - BC <BC-Felipe.Garza@austintexas.gov> February 27, 2025 To the Board Members of Austin Creative Alliance, ACA was established to be a critical partner to the City. This has been impossible given the aggressive and uncollaborative methods of your CEO, John Riedie. Case in point, the most recent petition being circulated by ACA. The arts commission is not a bystander to the CAD process. We approved the vision and high-level framework for the pilot programs. Now that the programs have run a full cycle, the commissioners have the opportunity to reflect on what is and is not working in order to take action and make needed changes, as evidenced by the working group report that John has served on. That he is participating in a working group (literally created to integrate community feedback into the re-visioning of the programs) and then circulating this petition simultaneously is completely hypocritical. Below is a list of issues we have identified with the petition (ACA language bulleted): "Cultural Arts Funding was suppressed by the Arts Commission, never released publicly, nor shared with Council." This was a city-driven survey. Nothing about it was suppressed from either council or the community to inform changes to the funding programs. Some of those suggestions have already been implemented while others are being considered as part of the current process. Please provide proof that this was actively "suppressed" “Just recently, focus groups conducted by Measure Austin expressed “mistrust” of the Arts Commission, as reported in the Austin Monitor, February 4, 2025.” https://outlook.office365.com/mail/inbox/id/AAQkAGQ3ZmNjOTlhLTBmNDQtNDVmNy1hZTlhLTk5MmFjZjgzMGMxNQAQAGqjrKl7B8tAlmXl2WInXZg… 1/4 3/5/25, 10:51 AM Mail - Zisman, Celina - BC - Outlook This statement is intentionally misleading on the part of …
REGULAR MEETING of the ARTS COMMISSION March 24, 2025, at 6:00 PM Austin Energy, Mueller Assembly Rm 1111a (115). 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723 Some members of the ARTS 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, call or email Jesús Varela at jesus.varela@austintexas.gov or at 512-974-2444. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Celina Zisman - Chair, Heidi Schmalbach - Vice Chair, Keyheira Keys, Monica Maldonado, Felipe Garza, Gina Houston, Acia Gray, Faiza Kracheni, Amy Mok, Nagavalli Medicharla AGENDA ADDENDUM DISCUSSION ITEMS 8. Presentation by Artists Margo Sawyer, Paula Priour, and Dr. John Yancey on their efforts to save their pieces that are slated to be destroyed (rather than deaccessed/sold) when the Convention Center is rebuilt. 9. Staff briefing to Arts and Music Commissions about Rally Austin Bond etc.by Anne Gatling STAFF BRIEFINGS Haynes, Chief Transactions Officer DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 10. Discussion and approval on the 2026 Budget Recommendations 11. Appoint new representative to the Downtown Commission 12. Presentations by Commissioners who are interested in serving as Officers of the Arts 13. Approve the Final Design for the Brush Square Art in Public Places Project by artist George Commission Sabra. 14. Approve Artist Selection Recommendations for Red Bud Isle Art in Public Places Project – Emily Eisenhart Recommended Artist, and Philippe Klinefelter Recommended Alternate Artist 15. Approve Artist Selection Recommendations for Armadillo Water Tank Art in Public Places Project – Bill Tavis Recommended Artist, Candy Kuo Recommended Alternate Artist, and Efren Rebugio Recommended Third Alternate Artist. 16. Approve the 2025-2027 Art In Public Places Pre-Qualified Texas Public Artist Pool.
Hotel Occupancy Tax Update Arts Commission Meeting March 24, 2025 Hotel Occupancy Tax – February 2025 Approved Budget Amended Budget February w/ Encumb Year-to-date w/Encumb Year-End Estimate Total Revenue $169,901,585 $169,901,585 $11,419,305 $73,124,589 $165,225,852 Transfer to Cultural Arts Fund $16,217,879 $16,217,879 $1,108,764 $7,001,619 $15,987,726 • Total HOT Collections February 2025 = $11,419,305 • 44% of FY25 Approved Budget of $169,901,585 • Cultural Arts Fund February 2025 = $1,108,764 C I TY O F A U S T I N HOT Cultural Arts Fund - FY25 C I TY O F A U S T I N Approved Budget for FY25: $16,217,879 FY25 HOT Cultural Arts Fund to date: $7,001,619 HOT Collections (FY22 – FY25) C I TY O F A U S T I N Questions? C I TY O F A U S T I N
Cultural Arts Funding Update March 24, 2025 Agenda 1. Contracts & Payments 2. FY 25 Cultural Funding Updates 3. Grant Funded Activities C I T Y O F A U S T I N Contracts & Payments FY23 Elevate FY23 Nexus (Fall/Winter) FY24 Nexus (Spring/ Summer) FY23-24 Thrive (Year 1) FY23-24 Thrive (Year 2) Contracts & Payments (As of 3/19/25) Total Contracts Signed & Processed Contracts Test payments issued & verified Payment 1 Issued Payment 2 Issued Payment 3 Issued 199 199 (100%) 199 (100%) 199 (100%) 197 (98%) 181 (91%) 51 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 49 (96%) n/a 51 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 51 (100%) 44 (86%) n/a 36 36 (100%) 36 (100%) 36 (100%) 36 (100%) n/a See year 1 N/A N/A 35 (97%) 35 (100%) n/a Total Dist. to date Total Allocation $6,127,692 (96%) $6,250,000 $254,000 (99%) $255,000 $251,500 (100%) $255,000 $3,901,500 (100%) $3,901,500 (100%) $3,901,500 $3,901,500 *Each grant has a different reporting deadline. Final Payments are issued upon successful close out of Final Report. C I T Y O F A U S T I N FY 25 Cultural Funding Updates 551 applications received 100 grants 18% acceptance rate Awards announced mid- April Nexus Update 4 Spanish applications 547 English applications C I T Y O F A U S T I N FY 25 Nexus Timeline January 28, 2025 May 1, 2025 May 30, 2026 Nexus application opens Nexus activities begin Latest Nexus Final Report due date Nexus application closes Last day for Nexus activities March 6, 2025 April 30, 2026 C I T Y O F A U S T I N Elevate Update Limit Potential Funding Disruptions Launch goal of early Fall Maintain Goals established during Cultural Funding Review Process (Pilot Year 3) Address Legislative Impacts (State/Federal) Meaningfully Engage Community and Commission C I T Y O F A U S T I N Community Engagement Update Elevate • 6 participants • 5 responses Nexus Thrive • 16 participants • 10 responses • 12 participants • 3 responses Candice Cooper • ACME Chief of Staff • Community Engagement lead C I T Y O F A U S T I N Grant Funded Activities FY 24-25 Cultural Funding Grantee Activities Red Light Lit Austin: Visions • March 27 • Red Light Lit Austin – Propaganda HQ (Dist 2) Steven Hough: A Solo Piano Recital • March 28 • ATX Chamber Music …
Rally Austin Update March 2025 Commissions WHO WE ARE MISSION Facilitating equitable development for economic growth while preserving Austin's unique culture. VISION A culturally resilient and economically integrated Austin where diverse communities thrive without risk of displacement. LEADING INVESTMENTS IN OUR COMMUNITY, AS A COMMUNITY Rally will focus its efforts to unite and drive progress across three critical areas of development in Central Texas: ARTS, MUSIC & CULTURE COMPLETE COMMUNITIES CATALYTIC DEVELOPMENT 2 WHO WE ARE OUR COMMUNITY AT WORK Board of Directors Collaboration of community leaders and nominating bodies who represent local organizations and asset holders. 7 City Of Austin Representatives: • Music Commission • Arts Commission • Historic Landmark • +City Directors 3 INVESTMENT HIGHLIGHTS RALLY AUSTIN MILESTONES Council begins to explore collaboration Austin Economic Development Corporation established Signed Interlocal agreement for initial projects 21-person board created, CEO and Staff search begin Strategic Plan provides Board Structure and Mission $2.4M for two creative space projects on City owned property AEDC recognized as 501c3 Non- Profit Organization $4.5M announced for Austin Playhouse $1.6M Iconic Venue Funding for The Hole in the Wall AEDC rebrands as Rally Austin Austin City Council Approves Developer Selection, Urban Renewal Agency recommendation for Blocks 16 & 18 $2.5M for Museum of Human Achievement Council approves a 30% increase in the Interlocal Agreement 2014 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Arts, Music & Culture Complete Communities Catalytic Development 4 DEVELOPMENT FOR PURPOSE Critical Areas of Development for Central Texas COMPLETE COMMUNITIES ARTS, MUSIC & CULTURE CATALYTIC DEVELOPMENT 5 DEVELOPMENT FOR PURPOSE BLOCK 16 & 18 EAST 11th ST Development of complete communities that improve quality of life for Austinites and focus on equitable development in underserved areas. Blocks 16 & 18 in the African American Cultural Heritage District with the Urban Renewal Board Philanthropic partnerships with Wells Fargo, C3 Presents, and Six Square “ We are proud partners of the Rally Austin team and their transformative work ensuring communities throughout Austin can flourish. — CHRIS RIOS, WELLS FARGO REGIONAL VP OF PHILANTHROPY & COMMUNITY IMPACT ” 6 DEVELOPMENT FOR PURPOSE ARTS, MUSIC & CULTURE AUSTIN CULTURAL TRUST IMPACT $11M in five projects valued at $24.2M $11M $24.2M $48.4M to $60.5M Rally Investment Project Value Projected Economic Impact INVESTMENTS $1.6M Hole in the Wall $2M Permitting and Development Center $400K Millenium Youth Entertainment Complex $4.5M Austin Playhouse $2.5M Museum of Human Achievement $400K Millennium Youth Entertainment Complex …
•Sponsoring Department: Transportation & Public Works, Parks & Recreation •Project: Red Bud Isle •Artist: TBC •Phase: Artist Selection Recommendation •Project Budget: $625,000 •Council District: Districts 8 and 10 •Project Manager: Lindsay Hutchens Arts Commission Meeting Date: 03/24/2025 Red Bud Isle Project Background Red Bud Isle is located off Redbud Trail between Lake Austin Boulevard and Stratford Drive. Red Bud Isle was formed in 1900 by the catastrophic collapse of the Great Granite Dam that contained Lake McDonald (now known as Lake Austin), killing several dozen people. Nearby is Tom Miller Dam that forms Lake Austin, the city’s primary source for drinking water. In 1940, the LCRA completed the dam as part of the Highland Lakes system, designed to manage floodwaters and bring electricity to the Texas Hill Country. Previous attempts to control the extreme flows of the Colorado had failed. In both 1900 and 1915 previous dams were devastated by floods. Granite boulders from those structures can still be found on Red Bud Isle. The Redbud Trail Bridge Project has been years in the making and is the result of increasing strains on the bridge due to flooding, population growth, the number of vehicles on the road and heightened use. The bridge, built in 1948, does not meet current roadway standards for traffic volume, bicycle and pedestrian amenities. The bridge is also nearing the end of its operational life. Construction of the new bridge is designed to handle current-day loading conditions, increasing vehicular traffic, and increased safety and multi-modal transportation options for bicyclists and pedestrians. The community stated a preference for artwork inspired by the history and nature of the site. Artists familiar with local ecology and/or the Red Bud Isle user community are highly encouraged to apply. Potential artwork locations are designated above, as well as other possible locations. Artwork may be considered for the bridge itself, however artwork may not pose any obstructions that block views of the water, impacts sight distance, interferes with pedestrian and vehicle activity, or the utility grate. AIPP in the area Red Bud Isle Budget – $625,000 Sponsor Department – Transportation & Public Works Selection Criteria • Technical quality and aesthetic appeal of Artwork Goals • A work of art of redeeming quality that advances public past work • Dedicated and consistent artistic practice • Authenticity, creativity, and innovation of work as presented • Communication of ideas and intentions • Ability and enthusiasm …
• Artist(s): Bill Tavis – recommended, Candy Kuo – alternate, Efren Rebugio – second alternate • Project: Armadillo Water Tank • Phase: Artist Selection • Sponsoring Department: Austin Water • Project Budget: $133,000 • Council District: District 2 • Project Manager: Bryana Iglesias and Ryan Runcie AIPP PANEL MEETING AGENDA ITEM #4 DATE:03/03/2025 Armadillo Water Tank Selection Panelists Voting Selection Panelists Chris Tobar – Multidisciplinary Artist Duglas Brown – Illustrator, Graphic Designer Bruce Willenzik – Executive Producer Armadillo Bazaar, Retired COA Arts Commissioner Josh Logan- Producer, Visual Director Mason Lackey – Co- Founder Mural Supply Co Project Advisors Ben Thompson- President, Armadillo Park Lauri Johnston – Member, Armadillo Park Randi Jenkins– Assistant Director, WATER R e c o m m e n d e d A r t i s t Bill Tavis 2024 Austin Skyline from Congress Bridge Latex | 12 x 12 Cedar Park, TX Armadillo Water Tank Bill Tavis "Bill's work was our top choice to design and execute the Armadillo Water Tank mural because we felt his voice was unique, and his style suited the subject and scope of a project best out of several well qualified candidates." "His art style is the best blend of figurative and abstract embellishments, so the viewer can experience the piece in different ways depending on their distance from it." "Bill was my first choice based on his style, attention to site details and ability to cover a large area. He received the highest score when votes were counted." A l t e r n a t e A r t i s t Armadillo Water Tank Candy Kuo 2023 Homesick Spray-paint & Latex | 8 x 15 Lustre Pearl, ATX Candy Kuo " We thought Candy was a close second to Bill, her use of contrast and color was exceptional, and she is very experienced with the size and scope of this project." "She has an excellent palette, compositions, and rendering of the subject matter. " S e c o n d A l t e r n a t e A r t i s t Armadillo Water Tank Efren Rebugio From Realm to Realm Spray-paint| 7 x 18 Concan, TX Efren Rebugio "Efren was also an extremely strong candidate, with a very unique style we thought was very "Austin", and experience with similar projects of size and scope." "Efren …
Arts Commission FY 24-25 Approved Budget Recommendations ● $548K for Cultural Arts Division staff and admin fees from General Fund, alleviating this expense from the limited Hotel Occupancy Tax reserved for CAD funding. $548,000 / City of Austin General Fund ● Fiscal support for Service Organizations to be issued $500,000 / City of Austin General Fund ● Fiscal support for Community Navigators in order to better support applicants during the cultural funding program application process, in particular for translation service providers. $1 Million / City of Austin General Fund ● Fiscal support to continue the Austin Civilian Conservation Core program. $1 Million / City of Austin General Fund ● Funding* to support the Austin Economic Development Corporation to continue implementing the Cultural Trust program, especially with Common Area Maintenance and other associated costs borne by operators who would be managing spaces for community use *Economic Development Department has provided funding to the extent feasible within their Department budget but cannot continue to contribute funding (see memo attached), so any funding for AEDC would need to be identified through another City source. (Amount?) Items from the Music Budget Requests to consider including: ● Fiscal support for the Creative Space Assistance Program – match FY23-34 funding lever. CSAP awards between $5,000 and $50,000 to commercial creative spaces facing displacement or new leases at higher and unaffordable rates. Grant funds may be used for revenue-generating space improvements, partial lease payments, and gap financing for creative space purchases. $1.5 Million/ City General Fund
ARTS COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250324-010 Date: 4/4/2025 Subject: Arts Commission FY26 Budget Recommendations Motioned By: Commissioner Gray Seconded By: Commissioner Houston RECOMMENDATIONS: 1. The Arts Commission requests that ACME staffing expenses and admin fees are to be sourced from the General Fund (or any other appropriate source) and NOT from limited Hotel Occupancy Taxes designated for Arts. (FY24-25 amount was approx. $548,000) / City of Austin General Fund 2. Fiscal support for Cultural Arts Service Organizations to be issued to better support applicants during the cultural funding program application process, in particular for translation service providers. $500,000 / City of Austin General Fund 3. The Arts Commission recommends the addition of the following two positions for each cultural facility: Asian American Resource Center, George Washington Carver Museum & Cultural Center, Mexican American Culture Center, and the Dougherty Arts Center. While we understand the marketing representatives may be housed within a central division or public information office, we recommend there’s 1 FTE with a dedicated portfolio of serving a given facility. a. 1. Marketing Representative A - Communicates via social and news outlets each facility’s programs, identifies sharing of related City-wide initiatives needing more input from cultural and arts communities tied to each facility. b. Community Engagement Specialist - Seeks community input into public planning processes, attends community events to share about programs, services, and updates on capital projects. 4. The Arts Commission recommends that City Council and the Mayor commit to complete the Dougherty Arts Center as designed by Studio 8, and include the Dougherty Arts Center in the 2026 Bond. 5. Fiscal support for the Creative Space Assistance Program – match FY24-25 funding lever. CSAP awards between $5,000 and $50,000 to commercial creative spaces facing displacement or new leases at higher and unaffordable rates. Grant funds may be used for revenue-generating space improvements, partial lease payments, and gap financing for creative space purchases. $1.5 Million/ City General Fund JUSTIFICATIONS REC. 1. Hotel Occupancy Taxes (HOT) are already limited in their scope and should be used primarily for direct support of arts organizations, artists, and cultural programming rather than administrative expenses. Ensures Long-Term Sustainability: Reliance on HOT for administrative costs creates funding instability, as these revenues fluctuate based on tourism trends. Shifting these costs to the General Fund ensures consistent support. Aligns with Best Practices: Other cities with thriving arts ecosystems, such as San Francisco and Seattle, allocate administrative costs separately …
REGULAR MEETING of the ARTS COMMISSION March 24, 2025, at 6:00 PM Austin Energy, Mueller Assembly Rm 1111a (115). 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723 The ARTS COMMISSION convened in a REGULAR meeting on 24, March 2025 at Austin Energy, Mueller Assembly Rm 1111a (115). 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723 Commissioner Zisman called the ARTS COMMISSION Meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Celina Zisman, Heidi Schmalbach, Acia Gray, Sharron Anderson, Gina Houston, Nagavalli Medicharla, Felipe Garza Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Monica Maldonado, Keyheira Keys Board Members Absent: Faiza Kracheni CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Celina Zisman - Chair, Heidi Schmalbach - Vice Chair, Keyheira Keys, Monica Maldonado, Felipe Garza, Gina Houston, Acia Gray, Faiza Kracheni, Sharron B Anderson, Nagavalli Medicharla AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Natalie Earheart of Almost Real Things spoke about their Touch The Art event Daniel Llanes spoke about his desire to bring humanity back to arts funding by creating a task force that includes artists like himself APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Arts Commission Regular Meeting on February 24th, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of February 24, 2025 were approved on Commissioner Houston’s motion, Commissioner Gray’s second on a 7-0 vote with Commissioner’s Schmalbach and Anderson abstaining and Commissioner Kracheni absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Report of the Art in Public Places Liaison concerning actions taking during the March 3rd meeting of the Art in Public Places Panel by Commissioner Maldonado An update was given by Commissioner Maldonado 3. Presentation by Board Members of Austin Creative Alliance on the most recent petition to Council An update was given by Commissioner Zisman 8. Presentation by Artists Margo Sawyer, Paula Priour, and Dr. John Yancey on their efforts to save their pieces that are slated to be destroyed (rather than deaccessed/sold) when the Convention Center is rebuilt. The presentation was given by Artists Margo Sawyer, Paula Priour, and Dr. John Yancey STAFF BRIEFINGS 4. Staff briefing regarding an update on the Hotel Occupancy Tax by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor The presentation was made by Matthew Schmidt, Acting Cultural Arts Division Manager 5. Staff briefing on the Cultural Arts Funding Programs by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor The presentation was made by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor 9. Staff briefing to Arts and Music Commissions about Rally Austin Bond etc.by Anne Gatling Haynes, Chief Transactions Officer The presentation was …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD CONTRACTS AND CONCESSIONS COMMITTEE MARCH 21, 2025 – 12:00 PM CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS 301 W. 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the committee 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, call or email Tim Dombeck, (512) 974-6716, tim.dombeck@austintexas.gov. Kim Taylor (D-8) Holly Reed (D-10) CURRENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Lane Becker (Mayor), Chair Pedro Villalobos (D-2) Nicole Merritt (D-3) 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 Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board Contracts and Concessions Committee on January 17, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing on an upcoming RFP solicitation for management and operation of the Zilker Café. (Sponsors: Becker, Villalobos) (PARD Long Range Strategies: Relief from Urban Life, Operational Efficiency). Presenter(s): Andrew Benford, Contract Management Specialist IV, Parks and Recreation Department. Page 1 of 2 1. 2. Staff briefing on the monthly Parks and Recreation Department contract report summarizing new and ongoing contract development and on the FY25 Annual Concession Activity Report summarizes year to date concessionaire activity per Austin City Code § 8-1-73 Annual Concession Report required data. (Sponsors: Becker, Villalobos) (PARD Long Range Strategies: Relief from Urban Life, Park Access for All). Presenter(s): Denisha Cox, Contract Management Supervisor II, Parks and Recreation Department. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Presentation, discussion and refer to the Parks and Recreation Board a recommendation to authorize the negotiation and execution of an interlocal agreement between the City of Austin and Austin Community College for restoration of the historic iron fencing surrounding family lots at Oakwood Cemetery. (Sponsors: Becker, Villalobos) (PARD Long Range Strategies: Relief from Urban Life, Urban Public Spaces). Presenter(s): Jason Walker, Cemeteries Division Manager, Parks and Recreation Department. Presentation, discussion and refer to the Parks and Recreation Board a recommendation to approve the negotiation and execution of an interlocal agreement between the City of Austin and the …
Zilker Cafe Food and Beverage Concession Solicitation Scope of Work Briefing Concessions and Contracts Committee Meeting March 21, 2025 Presenter: Andrew Benford, PARD Contract Management Specialist IV Denisha Cox, PARD Contract Management Supervisor II 1 Zilker Cafe Location Zilker Café is located next to the entrance to the Barton Springs Municipal Pool 2 Zilker Cafe History & Improvements The Barton Springs Pool/Zilker Park concession building was constructed circa 1960. Zilker Park is listed as a National Register Historic District, and the 60+-year old building, which has been modified over time, contributes to the historic character of the park and pool entrance. The Zilker Café has not been used as a food and beverage concession since 2016 due to a need for extensive renovations, the COVID-19 Pandemic, the dissolution of contract with previous vendor. and A solicitation is needed to select a vendor to manage and operate it once again as a food and beverage concession. 3 Zilker Cafe Barton Springs Pool Bathhouse Rehabilitation Impact • The Barton Springs Pool Bathhouse, near the Zilker Café, is undergoing a major renovation. Its anticipated completion is April 2025. • During the construction period, access to the café is impacted. • The impact to concession sales was cited in comments during the previous solicitation as a deterrent to the success of food concession. • Now that the construction is near completion, PARD is soliciting for a vendor to manage and operate the Café. 4 Zilker Cafe Solicitation • City seeks to contract with a qualified Concessionaire to manage and operate the food and beverage concession on the north side of Barton Springs Pool in Zilker Park. Vendor Requirements and Responsibilities include: • Have a minimum of three years’ experience in commercial food and beverage concession operations. • Operate during the preferred minimum hours of operation defined as: seven days per week, six-hours per day. Maximum hours of operation will be in accordance with park policy for curfew, 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. • Have price points for healthy, nutritious foods that are reasonable and affordable for every visitor. • Make improvements, which comply with the American with Disabilities Act, to both the indoor and outdoor areas of the Concession, including capital improvements, furnishings, and equipment in order to meet the City’s vision for the concession. • The sale of alcohol is strictly prohibited. 5 Zilker Cafe Vendor Requirements and Responsibilities …
Parks and Recreation Department Contracts Under Development Concessions and Contracts Committee Mar-25 Contract/Project Contract Type Phase NCP S / NS CCC PARB Council Notes Interlocal Agreement with AISD/ Go Project Interlocal P/D NA NS N/A Feb-25 Apr-25 Interlocal Agreement with AISD/S.A.F.E. (Swimming and Fitness Education) Swim Interlocal P/D NA NS Mar-25 Mar-25 Apr-25 Interlocal ACC Welding Program Partnership Interlocal P/D NA NS Mar-25 Mar-25 Apr-25 The City and AISD entered into an agreement in 2005 relating to an educational program known as the GO PROJECT that is a community-based transition program for students with disabilities who are 18-22 years of age and that enables students to move beyond the high school setting and finish their education in a college or work environment. The City provides facilities for AISD's use in providing such classes to the identified students and is interested in continuing to do this. As the current agreement in almost 20 years old, the City wants to revisit and refresh the agreement to better meet all needs. A draft agreement has been sent to the Legal Department for review. On February 24, 2025, the Parks and Recreation Board approved by a vote of 7-0 a recommendation that Austin City Council authorize negotiation and execution of an interlocal agreement with AISD to collaborate on the GO Project, an educational program for high school aged students with disabilities. The item is scheduled for Council action on April 24, 2025. Project SAFE is an aquatic safety education and swim training program provided to the Austin Independent School District by the City of Austin’s Aquatic Division. Each spring, students are invited to their nearby City of Austin-operated aquatic facility for a two-week long learn-to-swim session. Each day, participants will get an opportunity to engage in curriculums approved by the internationally recognized Starfish Aquatics Institute. It is the City's hope that participation in the program leads to greater water safety practices among the participants. At the conclusion of the program, registration information will be provided for students to continue their learning by participating in additional City of Austin Parks and Recreation programs. City of Austin PARD and Austin Community College are seeking to partner together in order to offer a unique opportunity for students currently enrolled in their welding program. Throughout the semester, students will engage in a meaningful project aimed at restoring the historic iron fencing surrounding family lots at Oakwood Cemetery that …
