Austin Parks and Recreation Department Austin Community College Welding Partnership Agreement Parks and Recreation Board Contracts and Concessions Committee March 21, 2025 Jason Walker, Cemeteries Division Manager Ryan Dees, Environmental Program Coordinator Agenda • Mission/Purpose • Goals & Objectives • Requested Board Action Mission/Purpose • Formalize partnership with Austin Community College Welding department to restore cast iron fencing for family lots at Oakwood that have been damaged, stolen, or have severely deteriorated over the years • This project will address damaged, missing, or degrading iron fencing seen at Oakwood. The restoration will only address family lots that have either lost their fencing or have sustained damage to their fencing • Students will follow guidelines set forth by both the Texas Historical Commission (THC) and the National Park Service (NPS) and in accordance to Texas State law. Designs will be approved before construction can begin. Designs will be submitted to the THC on behalf of the CoA Cemeteries Division for final recommendations or approvals. Goals & Objectives • Design and Detail Students will design fencing of their selected lot reflective of the appropriate time period. Designs will be submitted to both the instructor overseeing the students and to the CoA conservator for final changes and approvals. • Construction • Installation Students will construct the approved designs throughout the course of their semester. The final product after construction will be reevaluated by both the instructor overseeing the class and the CoA conservator for final approvals before installation can take place. Students will install the approved piece to the correct family lot that was chosen at the beginning of the semester. Installation will be overseen by both the ACC instructor and the COA conservator. Requested Board Action • Recommend to Austin City Council 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. Questions Additional Information Additional Information
Interlocal Agreement Between Austin Independent School District and City of Austin Contracts and Concessions Committee March 21, 2025 Ashley Wells, Division Manager Aquatics and Nature - Based Division Presentation Overview Mission/Purpose Goals and Objectives History Expenditures Deliverables Current Status Mission/Purpose Formalize partnership with Austin Independent School District Project SAFE (Safety and Fitness Education) is an aquatic safety education and swim training program Teach 1st grade students swimming skills approved by the internationally recognized Starfish Aquatics Institute in an 8-day, two-week long swim lesson program Instruct students in a water safety discussion to equip them with ways they can be safe in, on, and around the water Provide an opportunity for students to continue their water safety education by offering summer program information as well as information pertaining to our scholarships Goals & Objectives To enhance students’ comfort, ability, and knowledge of the water which leads to greater water safety practices To familiarize and bring awareness to the presence of nearby aquatic facilities to boost attendance and use To promote healthy activities that can be enjoyed at any age To promote aquatic programs that further increase water abilities History Springs Pool Project SAFE pilot program begins Spring 2011 with Perez Elementary School at Dove Spring 2013 – Widén Elementary joins the program at Dove Springs Pool Spring 2014 – Travis Heights Elementary joins the program and is based at Stacy Pool Spring 2019 – Harris Elementary joins the program and is based at the newly reconstructed Bartholomew Pool Spring 2020 – Project SAFE is put on hold due to COVID-19 Spring 2021 – Project SAFE returns, but Widén Elementary is unable to participate Spring 2024 – The green light is given to offer Project SAFE at the newly reconstructed Govalle Pool. Ortega, Zavala and Govalle Elementary join the program Spring 2025 – Widén again joins the program City of Austin Expenditures 2024 Project SAFE Transportation total was $1700 This paid for busses for four different schools as one school was able to walk to the aquatic facility Staff expenditures HG/MGR Hourly Rate LG's Hourly rate WSE $ WSE WSE Cost Cost HG/MGR/LG HG/MGR/LG FICA/MD Combined total HG/MGR/LG Staff combined cost Staff Total with FICA/MD School Govalle Zavala Harris Travis Heights Ortega Pool Govalle Govalle Bartholomew …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE ZERO WASTE ADVISORY COMMISSION MARCH 20, 2025 6:00 PM CITY HALL ROOM 1001 301 W 2ND ST AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Zero Waste Advisory Commission maybe participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register contact Gustavo Valle, at Gustavo.Valle@AustinTexas.gov or via phone at 512-974-4350. AGENDA Members: Gerry Acuna, Chair Ian Steyaert, Vice Chair Melissa Caudle Cathy Gattuso Caitlin Griffith Amanda Masino Craig Nazor Melissa Rothrock Michael Drohan Seth Whaland Vacant CALL MEETING TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 5 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. DISCUSSION ITEMS ACTION ITEMS 1. Approve Commission's Recommendations for FY26 & FY27 Budget Goals 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 Gustavo Valle at Austin Resource Recovery, at (512) 974-4350 or email Gustavo.Valle@AustinTexas.gov , for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Electric Utility Commission, please contact Gustavo Valle at (512) 974-4350 4350 or via email Gustavo.Valle@AustinTexas.gov or Karina Camara at Karina.Camara@AustinTexas.gov at (512) 978-0751 or via email at Claudia.Quiroa@AustinTexas.gov.
Resolution: Zero Waste Advisory Commission Whereas, It is the Responsibility of the Zero Waste Advisory Commission to review, evaluate and make recommendations to City Council, City Management and City Staff regarding policies concerning solid waste, recycling, organic and heavy brush collection pursuant to its Zero Waste Master Plan Goals; and Whereas, Austin Resource Recovery is one of four Enterprise Departments within the City of Austin and is responsible for meeting its annual financial responsibilities through sound budgeting and efficient customer rate setting that provide Residents with a safe and cost effective collection and disposal service; and Whereas, Austin Resource Recovery has established waste diversion and circular economy programs such as MoveOutATX, Fix-it and Repair Clinics and Zero Waste Business Incentive and Rebate Programs; and Whereas, Implementation and/or adherence to City policies must be reflected in the process of planning for future disposal and diversion challenges within the City of Austin, Travis County, Texas and supporting Austin Resource Recovery (ARR), who is responsible for implementing such Policies and Operations; and Whereas, in 2000 the City of Austin adopted a comprehensive Master Plan for future garbage, recycling, organic and brush collection within the City of Austin, Travis County, Texas area; and Whereas, The City of Austin has grown dramatically in population, development and competitiveness over the past five years and is in need of disposal options in the northern portion of Austin, Travis County, Texas; and Whereas, the 2024-25 Austin Resource Recovery Budget recommendation was seeking to provide competitive compensation for support and collection staff and for the development of a much more efficient and cost effective North Austin Transfer and Hazardous Waste facility which will minimize employee attrition and provide much needed disposal, recycling and hazardous waste drop off options for north, northeast and west Austin residents seeking more comprehensive garbage, recycling, household hazardous waste and organic and brush disposal and collection options; and Whereas, it is the goal of the Commission to more closely adhere to our Zero Waste Master Plan’s diversion goals while acknowledging the future financial demands of unforeseen weather and environmental events facing ARR in meeting these evolving responsibilities beginning with the 2025-2026 Budget cycle; Now Therefore, Be It Further Resolved the Zero Waste Advisory Commission of the City of Austin; asks City Management and City Council to support a 2025-26 Budget increase that will fund ARR’s innovative programs, future infrastructure development, provide competitive employee compensation and …
Resolution: Zero Waste Advisory Commission Whereas, It is the Responsibility of the Zero Waste Advisory Commission to review, evaluate and make recommendations to City Council, City Management and City Staff regarding policies concerning solid waste, recycling, organic and heavy brush collection pursuant to its Zero Waste Master Plan Goals; and Whereas, Austin Resource Recovery is one of four Enterprise Departments within the City of Austin and is responsible for meeting its annual financial responsibilities through sound budgeting and efficient customer rate setting that provide Residents with a safe and cost effective collection and disposal service; and Whereas, Austin Resource Recovery has established waste diversion and circular economy programs such as MoveOutATX, Fix-it and Repair Clinics and Zero Waste Business Incentive and Rebate Programs; and Whereas, Implementation and/or adherence to City policies must be reflected in the process of planning for future disposal and diversion challenges within the City of Austin, Travis County, Texas and supporting Austin Resource Recovery (ARR), who is responsible for implementing such Policies and Operations; and Whereas, in 2000 the City of Austin adopted a comprehensive Master Plan for future garbage, recycling, organic and brush collection within the City of Austin, Travis County, Texas area; and Whereas, The City of Austin has grown dramatically in population, development and competitiveness over the past five years and is in need of disposal options in the northern portion of Austin, Travis County, Texas; and Whereas, the 2024-25 Austin Resource Recovery Budget recommendation was seeking to provide competitive compensation for support and collection staff and for the development of a much more efficient and cost effective North Austin Transfer and Hazardous Waste facility which will minimize employee attrition and provide much needed disposal, recycling and hazardous waste drop off options for north, northeast and west Austin residents seeking more comprehensive garbage, recycling, household hazardous waste and organic and brush disposal and collection options; and Whereas, it is the goal of the Commission to more closely adhere to our Zero Waste Master Plan’s diversion goals while acknowledging the future financial demands of unforeseen weather and environmental events facing ARR in meeting these evolving responsibilities beginning with the 2025-2026 Budget cycle; Now Therefore, Be It Further Resolved the Zero Waste Advisory Commission of the City of Austin; asks City Management and City Council to support a 2025-26 Budget increase that will fund ARR’s innovative programs, future infrastructure development, provide competitive employee compensation and …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Zero Waste Advisory Commission Recommendation Number (20250320-1): FY26 & 27 Whereas, It is the Responsibility of the Zero Waste Advisory Commission to review, evaluate and make recommendations to City Council, City Management and City Staff regarding policies concerning solid waste, recycling, organic and heavy brush collection pursuant to its Zero Waste Master Plan Goals; and Whereas, Austin Resource Recovery is one of four Enterprise Departments within the City of Austin and is responsible for meeting its annual financial responsibilities through sound budgeting and efficient customer rate setting that provide Residents with a safe and cost effective collection and disposal service; and Whereas, Austin Resource Recovery has established waste diversion and circular economy programs such as MoveOutATX, Fix-it and Repair Clinics and Zero Waste Business Incentive and Rebate Programs; and Whereas, Implementation and/or adherence to City policies must be reflected in the process of planning for future disposal and diversion challenges within the City of Austin, Travis County, Texas and supporting Austin Resource Recovery (ARR), who is responsible for implementing such Policies and Operations; and Whereas, in 2000 the City of Austin adopted a comprehensive Master Plan for future garbage, recycling, organic and brush collection within the City of Austin, Travis County, Texas area; and Whereas, The City of Austin has grown dramatically in population, development and competitiveness over the past five years and is in need of solid waste drop off options in the northern portion of Austin, Travis County, Texas; and Whereas, the 2024-25 Austin Resource Recovery Budget recommendation was seeking to provide competitive compensation for support and collection staff and for the development of a much more efficient and cost effective North Austin Transfer and Hazardous Waste facility which will minimize employee attrition and provide much needed solid waste, recycling and hazardous waste drop off options for North, Northeast and West Austin residents seeking more comprehensive garbage, recycling, household hazardous waste and organic and brush collection and dropoff options; and Whereas, it is the goal of the Commission to more closely adhere to our Zero Waste Master Plan’s diversion goals while acknowledging the future financial demands of unforeseen weather and environmental events facing ARR in meeting these evolving responsibilities beginning with the 2025-2026 Budget cycle; Now Therefore, Be It Further Resolved the Zero Waste Advisory Commission of the City of Austin; asks City Management and City Council to support a 2025-26 Budget increase that will fund …
ZERO WASTE ADVISORY COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES Thursday, March 20th, 2025 The Zero Waste Advisory Commission convened in a SPECIAL CALLED meeting on Thursday, March 20th, 2025, at City Hall Chambers, 301 W 2nd St. Austin, Texas 78701 Chair Acuna called the Zero Waste Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Commissioners Commissioner Seth Whaland in Attendance: Gerry Acuna, Chair; Commissioner Michael Drohan; Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Ian Steyaert, Vice Chair; Commissioner Melissa Rothrock; Commissioner John L. Harris; Commissioner Melissa Caudle PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 5 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. ACTION ITEMS 1. Approve Commission's Recommendations for FY26 & FY27 Budget Goals The motion to approve the Zero Waste Advisory Commission's Recommendations for FY26 & FY27 Budget Goals was approved on Commissioner Drohan’s motion, Commissioner Whaland’s second, on a (7-0) vote with Commissioner Masino, Commissioner Griffith Commissioner Ishaq and Commissioner Suddaby absent. ADJOURNMENT Chair Acuna adjourned the meeting at 6:14 p.m. without objection. The minutes were unanimously approved at the April 9, 2025, meeting on Commissioner Whaland’s motion, Commissioner Steyaert’s second on a 7-0 vote. 1
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING SMALL AREA PLANNING JOINT COMMITTEE Wednesday, March 19, 2025 11:30 AM Permitting and Development Center (PDC), Rm. 2004 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the Small Area Plan Joint Committee may be participating by video conference. 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 board liaisons at 512- 974-8033 or chad.sharrard@austintexas.gov / romina.tafazzoli@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Nadia Barrera-Ramirez William D. Floyd, Chair Betsy Greenberg, Vice Chair Vacant Vacant Ryan Puzycki Danielle Skidmore (Planning Commission) (Zoning and Platting Commission) (Zoning and Platting Commission) (Planning Commission) (Planning Commission) (Zoning and Platting Commission) (Planning Commission) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 3 speakers who sign up by noon (12:00 PM) the day before 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. 1. Approve the minutes of the Small Area Planning Joint Committee meeting on February 5, 2025. APPROVAL OF MINUTES STAFF BRIEFINGS 1 2. Staff briefing regarding the North Lamar Transit Center and South Congress Transit Center Station Area Vision Plans and related recommendations. City of Austin Planning Department Staff: Ana Villarreal, Ana.Villarreal@austintexas.gov. 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 Mark Walters at the Housing and Planning Department, at 512-974-7695, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Small Area Planning Joint Committee, please contact the liaison, Shanisha Johnson at 512-974-3458, shanisha.johnson@austintexas.gov; or Donna Arwood at 512-974-3440, donna.arwood@austintexas.gov. 2
North Lamar and South Congress Station Area Vision Plans SAPJC Briefing Wednesday, March 19, 2025 Agenda 1 What is ETOD? 2 What’s an ETOD Station Area? 3 Station Area Vision Plans 4 Next Steps 5 Discussion What is ETOD? What is ETOD? ETOD is an approach to planning that puts housing, jobs, services, and retail near public transit stations. This makes it easier for people to get to these places using public transit and creates walkable neighborhoods with a range of services. Supporting Equitable Outcomes —it ETOD goes beyond just thinking about focuses also on the in these places, especially those who have been left out of past planning efforts. Project Connect and ETOD 2020 2021 Voters overwhelmingly approve Project Connect CapMetro ETOD study (funded by FTA) 2023 City Council accepts ETOD Policy Plan *FTA- The ETOD Policy Plan • Informed by CapMetro’s ETOD Study • Direction to staff to initiate Station Area Planning, Imagine Austin amendments, and Land Development Code amendments • Direction to create an ETOD Implementation Plan as a short- term work program What are the ETOD Goals? The plan has six key goals created with the help from the community. Enable all residents to benefit from safe, sustainable, and accessible transportation Help to close racial health and wealth gaps Preserve and increase housing opportunities that are affordable and attainable Expand access to high-quality jobs and career opportunities Support healthy neighborhoods that meet daily needs Expand Austin’s diverse cultural heritage and small, BIPOC-owned, and legacy businesses What is an ETOD Station Area? Station Area Planning and ETOD Station Area Planning is a community-driven approach to crafting a vision for the area surrounding a transit station. North Lamar Transit Center Station Area South Congress Transit Center Station Area Station Areas Engagement Timeline Round 1 Engagement Round 2 Engagement Round 3 Engagement Spring 2023 Fall 2023 Fall 2024 Engagement The Vision Plans North Lamar & South Congress Transit Centers Station Area Vision Plans North Lamar Transit Center ETOD Typologies North Lamar Transit Center Station Area NLTC Concept Plan NLTC Vision Plan and Future Land Use Map South Congress Transit Center ETOD Typologies South Congress Transit Center Station Area SCTC Vision Plan and Future Land Use Map What makes ETOD Equitable? ETOD advocates that people of all incomes and backgrounds experience benefits from dense, mixed-use, pedestrian-oriented development near transit hubs. Creating & Preserving Mixed-Use Affordable Housing Supporting Small Businesses Creating …
SMALL AREA JOINT PLANNING COMMITTEE SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES March 19, 2025 The SMALL AREA JOINT PLANNING COMMITTEE convened in a Meeting on March 19, 2025, at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 2004, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. in Austin, Texas. Commissioner Greenberg called the Small Area Joint Planning Committee Meeting to order at 11:36 a.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Ryan Puzyck Betsy Greenberg, Vice Chair Danielle Skidmore Nadia Barrera-Ramirez Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Commissioners , Barrera-Ramirez, Puzyck, and Skidmore attended remotely. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No one signed up for public communication. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Small Area Planning Joint Committee meeting on February 5, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of February 5, 2025 were approved on Commissioner Puzyck’s motion, Commissioner Barrera-Ramirez’s second, on a unanimous vote. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding the North Lamar Transit Center and South Congress Transit Center Station Area Vision Plans and related recommendations. City of Austin Planning Department Staff: Ana Villarreal, Ana.Villarreal@austintexas.gov. Ana Villarreal presented a staff briefing to commissioners. ADJOURNMENT Commissioner Greenberg adjourned the meeting at 12:44 PM without objection. These minutes were approved at the April 9, 2025 meeting on Commissioner Barrera-Ramirez's motion, Commissioner Puzyck's second, with unanimous approval., on a vote of 4-0.
Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission March 19, 2025 at 6:00 PM Permitting And Development Center, Events Center, Room 1405 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Environmental Commission will 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 Elizabeth Funk, Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov, no later than noon the day before the meeting. The following information is required: speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, email address and telephone number (must be the same number that will be used to call into the meeting). CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Haris Qureshi Justin Fleury Mariana Krueger Melinda Schiera Hanna Cofer, Vice Chair Colin Nickells Jennifer Bristol, Secretary David Sullivan Richard Brimer Perry Bedford, Chair 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 Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on March 5, 2025 1 1. DISCUSSION ITEMS Recognition of Perry Bedford for his service on the Environmental Commission – Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Department Presentation and discussion regarding guiding principles and scoring criteria for the 2026 Bond – Pam Kearfott, Managing Engineer, and Kelly Gagnon, Planner Principal, Watershed Protection Department DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Presentation on Watershed Protection Department's Fiscal Year 2025 Budget, Programs, and Projects Overview and approve recommendations for their FY26 budget — Anupa Gharpurey, Financial Manager, and Pam Kearfott, Managing Engineer, Watershed Protection Department Discussion and recommendation on budget priorities from the Joint Sustainability Committee – Harris Qureshi and Perry Bedford, Environmental Commissioners 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 …
1. 2. 3. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, March 5, 2025 The Environmental Commission convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Bedford called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:08 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Perry Bedford, Richard Brimer, Justin Fleury, Mariana Krueger, Colin Nickells, Haris Qureshi, David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: None Commissioners Absent: Jennifer Bristol, Hanna Cofer, Melinda Schiera PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on February 19, 2025 The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on February 19, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Schiera was off the dais. Commissioners Bristol, Cofer, and Schiera were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS Recognition of Colin Nickells for his service on the Environmental Commission – Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Department Item conducted as posted. No action taken. Recognition of Melinda Schiera for her service on the Environmental Commission – Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Department Item was postponed to the next meeting. 1 Presentation and discussion on Austin Energy Green Building – Heidi Kasper, Energy Efficiency Services Director, Austin Energy Item conducted as posted. No action taken. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and recommendation on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Austin Light Rail – Commissioners Sullivan and Qureshi A motion to recommend the draft environmental impact statement for Austin Light Rail failed on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second, on a 5-1 vote. Commissioner Brimer voted against. Commissioner Qureshi abstained. Commissioners Bristol, Cofer, and Schiera were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT Commissioner Qureshi requested to add budget recommendations from the Joint Sustainability Committee to the budget meeting. This request was seconded by Bedford Chair Bedford adjourned the meeting at 7:32 pm without objection. 4. 5. 2
Guiding Principles & Technical Criteria for the 2026 Bond Development Program N I T S U A F O Y T I C Environmental Commission Meeting March 19, 2025 Kelly Gagnon, Principal Planner Pam Kearfott, Managing Engineer W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T Presentation Overview 2 N I T S U A F O Y T I C 1. Introduction to the Watershed Protection Department (WPD) 2. WPD & General Obligation (G.O.) Bond History 3. 2026 Bond Development Process & Guiding Principles 4. WPD Technical Criteria for 2026 Bond Development W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 3 Watershed Protection Department (WPD): Mission To protect the lives, property, and environment of our community by reducing the impacts of flooding, erosion, and water pollution. N I T S U A F O Y T I C W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 4 N I T S U A F O Y T I C WPD: Funding Sources Operations • Drainage Utility Charge • Other Fees and Interest Income Capital Program • Cash transfer from Operations • G.O. Bonds • Grants • Tax Increment Financing • Regional Stormwater Management Program (RSMP) & Urban Structural Control Fund (USCF) Payments W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 5 N I T S U A F O Y T I C WPD: Strategic Plan “Worst Problems First” • Defines mission • Sets goals + objectives • Defines “Problem Score” methodologies for prioritization • Commits to data and asset management • Shares our solutions inventory • Defines framework to identify “preferred solutions” • Sets recommendations W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 6 WPD: Strategic Plan Needs Assessment Over $2 billion needed to solve the most severe watershed problems and critical asset management …
N I T S U A F O Y T I C Watershed Protection Department FY25 Budget, Programs, and Projects Environmental Commission Meeting March 19, 2025 Anupa Gharpurey, Assistant Director, Business Enterprises Pam Kearfott, Managing Engineer, Project Design & Delivery W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 2 Overview N I T S U A F O Y T I C • Mission & Organizational Structure • FY25 Budget Highlights • Programmatic Activities • Capital Improvement Program • Project Highlights • Resources W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 3 N I T S U A F O Y T I C Mission & Organizational Structure W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 4 Our Start: Established in 1991, Watershed Protection Department was charged with the goal of managing the City’s creeks, drainage systems and water quality programs. Our Mission: “…to protect the lives, property, and environment of our community by reducing the impact of floods, erosion, and water pollution.” Our Funding: Primary Source: Drainage Charge - >94% Other sources: Bonds (for Capital Projects), Development Fees, Interest Income, Grants N I T S U A F O Y T I C W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 5 Current Organizational Structure N I T S U A F O Y T I C W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 6 FY25 Financial Structure Watershed Protection Total FTEs: 442.5 Monitoring, Modeling and Compliance FTEs: 105.5 Project Design & Delivery FTEs: 62 Field Operations FTEs: 173 Business Enterprises FTEs: 102 W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T N I T S U A F O Y T I …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250319-004 Date: March 19, 2025 Subject: Watershed Protection Department FY 2026-2027 Budget, Programs, and Projects Motion by: Jennifer Bristol Seconded by: David Sullivan WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission was presented the Watershed Protection Department’s (WPD) Fiscal year 2025 budget; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission understands the Watershed Protection Department’s (WPD) annual Financial Forecast is still being prepared and the final plan will be provided to Council in near future; and THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission supports the Watershed Protection Department’s Budget, Programs, and Projects as presented to the Commission with the following recommendations: • Invest in design development for priority identified drainage and stormwater projects that might be eligible for a future bond package. For: Hanna Cofer, Jennifer Bristol, Richard Brimer, Justin Fleury, Ashika Ganguly, Mariana Krueger, Haris Qureshi, David Sullivan VOTE 8-0 Against: None Recuse: None Abstain: None Approved By: Absent: Isabella Changsut and Melinda Schiera Elizabeth Funk, Environmental Commission Liaison
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, March 19, 2025 The Environmental Commission convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Cofer called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hanna Cofer, Richard Brimer, Justin Fleury, Ashika Ganguly, Mariana Krueger, Haris Qureshi, David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Jennifer Bristol Commissioners Absent: Isabella Changsut, Melinda Schiera PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Paul Gosselink, Development on Shoal Creek APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on March 5, 2025 The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on March 5, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Ganguly was off the dais. Commissioners Changsut and Schiera were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. Recognition of Perry Bedford for his service on the Environmental Commission – Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Department Item conducted as posted. No action taken. Presentation and discussion regarding guiding principles and scoring criteria for the 2026 Bond – Pam Kearfott, Managing Engineer, and Kelly Gagnon, Planner Principal, Watershed Protection Department Item conducted as posted. No action taken. 1 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. 5. Presentation on Watershed Protection Department's Fiscal Year 2025 Budget, Programs, and Projects Overview and approve recommendations for their FY26 budget — Anupa Gharpurey, Assistant Director, and Pam Kearfott, Managing Engineer, Watershed Protection Department A motion to recommend priorities for Watershed Protection Department’s 2026 budget passed on Commissioner Bristol’s motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Changsut and Schiera were absent. Discussion and recommendation on budget priorities from the Joint Sustainability Committee – Harris Qureshi and Perry Bedford, Environmental Commissioners A motion to postpone the Joint Sustainability Committee’s 2026 budget priorities to the April 2nd meeting passed on Commissioner Qureshi’s motion, Commissioner Bristol’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Changsut and Schiera were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Commissioner Sullivan requested an agenda item to appoint a commissioner to the South Central Waterfront Advisory Board. Elizabeth Funk (Watershed Protection) stated that committee appointments will bee on the April 2nd meeting. Commissioner Brimer mentioned that the Urban Forestry Committee will also need new members. Secretary Bristol reminded the commission that officer elections will also be held at the April 2nd meeting. ADJOURNMENT Vice Chair Cofer adjourned the meeting at 8:26 pm without objection. The …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING ELECTRIC BOARD Wednesday March 19, 2025 @ 10:00 AM- In Person PERMITTING DEVELOPMENT CENTER/ 1st FLOOR, CONF RM 1401-1402 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR AUSTIN, TEXAS Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register, contact rick.arzola@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Gabriel Flores-Chair (Fuentes); Delwin Goss (Velasquez); David Johnson- V Chair (Madison), Victoria Shope (R.Alter), Ben Brenneman (A.Alter), Deschaine, David (Pool); Christian Spies(Kelly); Michael Grant (Qadri); Joel Cochren(Page) Rogelio Wallace (Vela) Kenny King(Watson) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMUNICATION: 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- 2025 1. Approve the minutes of the Electrical Board Special Called Meeting from January 15, DISCUSSION 2. Austin Energy Meter Review team. Understanding its roll and functions 3. Board Consolidation update 4. Discussion on enforcement of Electrical Registration 80.38 5. Commercial Plan Review update; Submittals, on time ratio and staffing. 6. Building and Trade Contractor Service update; permit application process, turnaround 7. Commercial and Residential Inspection update on staff vacancies and timely inspections. times and staffing FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans 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 Rick Arzola at Development Services Department, Building Inspections, at (512) 974-2417, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711.
Electric Board APPROVED MINUTES REGULAR CALLED MEETING March 19, 2025 The Electric Board convened in a Regular Called Board Meeting on March 19, 2025, at the Permitting Development Center at 10:04 am. Board Members in Attendance: David Johnson, Delwin Goss, Michael Grant, Kenny King, Gabe Flores, Rogelio Wallace Christian Spies Members Not in Attendance: Joel Cochren, , Victoria Shope, David Deshaine and Ben Brenneman, Staff in Attendance: Rick Arzola (DSD), Jessica Surber (DSD) James Epperson (DSD), Marty Starrett (DSD), Hyatt Dunn (DSD), Aaron Finney (DSD) and Robert Ruiz (AE) PUBLIC CITIZEN COMMUNICATION: No one registered to speak. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. The minutes were approved for the January 15 ,2025 special called meeting on board member Johnson motion, board member Grant second the motion. Motion passed on a 7-0 vote. DISCUSSION 2. Austin Energy Meter Review Team- Robert Ruiz of Austin Energy meter review team addressed the boards request from January’s meeting to answer questions from board members. As of today, Robert’s team consist of 4 electrical reviewers and 3 business process specialist who assist with the intake of applications. Currently working with Development Service commercial electrical plan review staff to assist with plans being submitted, where this review team, oversees the utility side, which includes metering equipment and or meter installation. Also addressed, the design criteria will be updated in December 2025. Not sure if there will be any public hearings, Josh Contreras will be heading the design criteria manual. Some of the changes that AE meter review team will be contributing to the design criteria, is change in verbiage of fuse and breaker sizes. Presentation of AE meter review will be provided on March 25 at Austin Energy. Any questions, contact Robert at robert.ruiz@austinenergy.com or at aemeterreview@austinenergy.com or at distributionmetering@austinenergy.com, which is for equipment that can be used. 3. Board Consolidation- Development Services staff informed the board that the future of consolidation of the technical board is still unknown at this time. In a recent post, council member Ryan Alter has updated his recent Appendix A board consolidation commissions after feedback from staff and public, which included members of boards and commissions, has now excluded the technical boards (Electrical, Mechanical and Plumbing and Building and Fire Board of Appeals) from being consolidated to the Building and Safety Life commission. Development Services executive office is encouraged by the new update, however, still wants us to be on guard for …
Economic Prosperity Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 19, 2025 ECONOMIC PROSPERITY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, February 19, 2025 The Economic Prosperity Commission convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at 301 W. 2nd Street, Boards and Commissions Room 1101, in Austin, Texas. Chair Nahas called the Economic Prosperity Commission Meeting to order at 6:31 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance in Person: Michael Nahas (Chair) Amy Rister Raquel Valdez-Sanchez Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Aaron Gonzales Kelsey Hitchingham Amy Noel Ofelia Zapata PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Economic Prosperity Commission Regular Called Meeting on October 19, 2022. The minutes were approved with an amendment to remove “Chair” from before “Kelsey” and insert “Chair” before “Nathan Ryan” on Chair Nahas’ motion, Commissioner Hitchingham’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Zapata was off the dais. Commissioners Cantu, Dixon, and Ponder were absent. Item 1 was taken up after Item 2 without objection. Approve the minutes of the Economic Prosperity Commission regular meeting on January 29, 2025. 1 1. 2. Economic Prosperity Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 19, 2025 The minutes were approved without objection on Chair Nahas’ motion on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Zapata was off the dais. Commissioners Cantu, Dixon, and Ponder were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion on the long-term goals and strategic planning of the Economic Prosperity Commission. Discussion was held. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Conduct an emergency election for a Vice Chair of the Economic Prosperity Commission. Commissioner Rister was nominated for the role of Vice Chair by Chair Nahas, second by Commissioner Zapata. Commissioner Rister was elected as Vice Chair on Chair Nahas’ motion, Commissioner Zapata’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Cantu, Dixon, and Ponder were absent. Item 4 was taken up after Item 5 without objection. Discussion and possible action on a recommendation regarding Chapter 380 programs. The below recommendation was approved on Chair Nahas’ motion, Commissioner Rister’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Cantu, Dixon, and Ponder were absent. WHERE AS: Austin City Council recently approved changes to the Chapter 380 Program under Ordinance No. 20240926-013. WHERE AS: The revised Chapter 380 program guidelines indicate that specific goals for program and project metrics will be defined during the rule promulgation and development phase within the first year of implementation. Effectively, pausing the program for one year. WHERE AS: Publishing a temporary scoring matrix would allow …
Regular Called Meeting of the Economic Prosperity Commission Wednesday, March 19, 2025, 6:30pm City Hall, Boards & Commissions Room 1101 301 W. 2nd Street Austin, Texas Some members of the Economic Prosperity 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, call or email Ryan Sperling, 512- 874-3568, ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Michael Nahas, Chair Rodrigo Cantu Aaron Gonzales Amy Noel Amy Rister Ofelia Zapata Luis Osta Lugo, Vice Chair Laura Dixon Kelsey Hitchingham Christina Ponder Raquel Valdez Sanchez 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 Economic Prosperity Commission Regular Meeting on February 19, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion on the long-term goals and strategic planning of the Economic Prosperity Commission. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS Recommendation from the Small Business Working Group regarding language access for small businesses. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Approve a recommendation to City Council for the FY2025-26 budget to increase funding of language access resources for small businesses. Approve recommendations to City Council regarding the FY2025-26 budget as it relates to the Economic Prosperity Commission WORKING GROUP UPDATES 6. Update from the Childcare working group regarding a survey of recent license recipients. 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 Ryan Sperling, Office of the City Clerk at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Economic Prosperity Commission, please contact Ryan Sperling at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. 2. 3. 4. 5.
ECONOMIC PROSPERITY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250319-005 Date: March 19, 2025 Subject: City’s FY 2025 – 2026 Budget Motioned By: Seconded By: Recommendation Reduce risk by moving from pensions and post-employment healthcare to defined contribution. Description of Recommendation to Council Remove risk by changing our retirement programs from pensions and post-employment healthcare to defined-contribution programs. Remove risk by paying a third party to accept Austin’s existing pension and post-employment healthcare liabilities. Payment could be either a series of future annual payments or an immediate payment, using funds raised by General Obligations bonds. Rationale: The City of Austin currently promises pensions and post-retirement healthcare to its employees. That is, we specify benefits after they retire for as long as they live. This sounds nice, but the hard truth is that we do not know the financial future. We do not know the price today of those promises. Those promises have already created a gigantic problem. The 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the City of Austin says our unfunded actuarial accrued liabilities for the pension are $2,294,789,000. For post-employment benefits (which is mostly healthcare) it is $1,851.879,000. And that’s just the government side. The enterprises have an additional $2,610,485,000 in pension and post-employment liabilities. If we spent all of our property tax paying off the government liability, it would take 4 years. This gigantic problem may grow larger. Consider the data on page 56 of the 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for COAERS, the City of Austin Employee’s Retirement System. The current outstanding liabilities are calculated assuming a 6.75% return by their investments. If the return is just 1% less, the liabilities increase by 30%. 1 of 3 This problem hurts us right now. Page 34 of the 2024-25 budget says we paid $151,781,000 to pay down just 1/30th of the liability. Austin’s government charged a family of four more than $50 per month not to provide services, but just to pay down a tiny fraction of our $4 billion debt. Pensions and healthcare promises are dangerous. They crippled America’s car industry. They almost ended America’s steel industry. Multiple cities have declared bankruptcy due to the burdens of pension and healthcare. Detroit, Michigan, which was the fastest growing city in America in its heyday, went bankrupt due to pensions. Pension programs and healthcare promises can harm more than the City of Austin; they might harm our employees in the future who would be …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE DOWNTOWN COMMISSION Wednesday March 19, 2025, 5:30 p.m. Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001 301 W 2nd Street Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Downtown 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 register, please contact Ryan Sperling at Ryan.Sperling@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-3568. telephone. To CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Ed Ishmael, Vice Chair Peter Breton David Carroll Liz Coufal Kimberly Levinson Charles Peveto Sania Shifferd Philip Wiley CALL TO ORDER Jennifer Franklin Nkiru Gelles Amy Mok Anne Charlotte Patterson Nelly Paulina Ramírez Spencer Schumacher 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 19, 2025. 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission regular called meeting on February STAFF BRIEFINGS DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Staff briefing regarding the recent work towards renovating the Austin Convention Center. Presentation by Trisha Tatro, Director, Austin Convention Center Department. 3. Staff briefing regarding the Austin Historic Resource Survey by the Historic Preservation Office. Presentation by Sofia Wagner, Planner III, Planning Department. 4. Update from the liaison from the Parks and Recreation Board on the topics discussed at the January 2025, and February 2025, board meetings. 5. Update from the liaison from the Urban Transportation Commission on Recommendation Number 20250304-003: Austin Core Transportation Plan and Recommendation Number 20250304-006: Austin Light Rail Draft Environmental Impact Statement. 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 Christi Vitela at the Office of the City Clerk, at (512) 974-2792 for additional information; TTY users’ route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Downtown Commission, please contact Ryan Sperling at Ryan.Sperling@austintexas.gov or …
Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 19, 2025 DOWNTOWN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2025 The Downtown Commission convened the regular meeting on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at City Hall, 301W 2nd St, in a hybrid meeting format. COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE August Harris, Chair Ed Ishmael, Vice-Chair Peter Breton David Carroll Kimberly Levinson Charles Peveto Sania Shifferd COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY Liz Coufal Jennifer Franklin Nkiru Gelles Amy Mok Anne-Charlotte Patterson Nelly Paulina Ramírez Spencer Schumacher CALL TO ORDER Chair Harris called the meeting of the Downtown Commission to order at 5:30 pm. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Philip Whiley – Observations on Austin Land Development Code APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission regular called meeting on January 15, 2025. The minutes from the meeting on January 15, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Levinson’s motion, Commissioner Shifferd’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Breton was off the dais. Commissioner Lavigne was absent. Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 19, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the Seaholm area multi-modal improvements by Alex Payson, Capital Improvement Program Manager, Austin Transportation and Public Works. The presentation was made by Alex Payson, Capital Improvement Program Manager, Austin Transportation and Public Works. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Update on the progress of the Austin Light Rail. Presentation by Austin Transit Partnership staff. The presentation was made by Sean Barry and Deron Lozano, Austin Transit Partnership. 4. Discussion of the proposed reorganization of certain Boards and Commissions as outlined in Austin City Council Resolution 20241212-133. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM 5. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding High Level Goals for the Downtown Austin Plan Update. The motion to approve a Recommendation to Council regarding High Level Goals for the Downtown Austin Plan Update was approved on Commissioner Levinson’s motion, Commissioner Peveto’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Lavigne was absent. Election of officers in April FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT Chair Harris adjourned the meeting at 6:36 pm without any objection.
City of Austin Downtown Historic Resource Survey Downtown Commission Meeting, March 19, 2025 Agenda What Does a Historic Resource Survey Do? Downtown Austin Historic Resource Survey Survey Boundary What’s Inside the Survey? Survey Timeline Frequently Asked Questions Where to Find the Survey Draft What Does a Historic Resource Survey Do? Highlights potential historic properties by identifying older buildings and areas that help to tell the story of an important person, community, group, or the city as a whole; or exhibit significant architecture or landscape design. Includes fieldwork, archival research, and oral histories. Ensures that historically significant resources are recorded. Results are available for public use. Is an information-gathering tool only – does not include zoning changes. 3 Downtown Austin Historic Resource Survey 45+ year old buildings in Downtown Austin 1,313 potential historic resources Survey boundary: Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd on the north, I-35 on the east, Lady Bird Lake on the south, and MoPac on the west Background research for Historic Preservation Office Background research for community use Conducted by HHM & Associates 4 Survey Boundary 5 What’s Inside the Survey? 6 What’s Inside the Survey? 7 What’s Inside the Survey? 8 Survey Timeline Project Initiation 1st Public Meeting Public Comment Period Opens Deadline for Public Comments Oct. 2023 Dec. 18, 2023 March 26, 2025 May 9, 2025 Nov. 2023 May 13, 2024 April 16, 2025 July 2, 2025 Draft Fieldwork 2nd Public Meeting (Virtual) 3rd Public Meeting (Virtual) Presentation to Historic Landmark Commission 9 Frequently Asked Questions Q: Will the survey change the zoning on my property? A: No. The survey consultants will evaluate whether properties are eligible for potential designation as future landmarks, historic districts, or listing on the National Register of Historic Places. Q: Will the survey change my property taxes? A: No. Q: If I want to designate my property based on the survey’s recommendations, how will that work? A: If property owners choose to designate a landmark or historic district based on the recommendations, it will entail a rezoning process. The City of Austin Historic Preservation Office will help guide you through the process. Q: If I choose to designate my property, will my taxes change? A: Maybe. Locally designated landmarks are eligible for a partial property tax exemption. Properties in locally designated historic districts can receive a tax abatement for rehabilitation work. 10 Review and Comment on Draft Survey Public Comment Period opens …
Topics Studied in the Draft Environmental Impact Statement The Draft Environmental Impact Statement (or DEIS) provides a comprehensive analysis of Austin Light Rail in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act and other applicable statutes. This handout contains summary information for key areas of interest that were identified during previous community input. Scan to access the full DEIS at atptx.org Wildlife and Water Resources What are the potential impacts on water and local wildlife? STUDY OUTCOMES KEY ATP PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES y Current drainage patterns will y Less than 2% overall change to y Manage lighting to avoid or minimize be maintained and will bridge impervious coverage because impacts on bats and birds during or culvert over water features the Project is largely within construction and operations. to limit disturbance. existing right-of-way. y Ensure compliance with Clean Water y No threatened or endangered y Lighting during construction Act by continuing coordination with the species or habitat will be and operations could affect the Army Corps of Engineers. impacted by the Project. bat colony and the new light rail bridge across Lady Bird Lake is in the bat flight path. y Continuing bridge design will seek to reduce impacts to water quality, plants and animals. Air Quality How would the construction and operation of light rail affect air quality? STUDY OUTCOMES KEY ATP PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES ATP will require contractors to implement best management practices to minimize dust and emissions that might be caused by construction. During construction: y Increase in dust from construction activities. y Increase in emissions from machinery used during construction. y Temporary emissions from cars due to traffic conditions. Reduced Vehicle Miles Traveled Annually, over 20 million fewer vehicle miles will be traveled, as more people transition to the newly available transit options. No Air Emissions During Operation Light rail vehicles are electric. Austin Prioritizes Clean Air The Austin area complies with all federal air quality standards designed to protect public health. 1 Trees What will happen to trees along the light rail? STUDY OUTCOMES KEY ATP PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES y A tree task force y Three-tiered strategy conducted an will be applied to inventory of trees trees within the limits to determine of construction, which y Removed trees y Continuing objective is to avoid tree removals or impacts Three Tiered Strategy for Trees: the potential for includes: preservation in the Project area. 245 Protected Trees 211 …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION URBAN TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION Recommendation Number 20250304: Austin Core Transportation Plan WHEREAS, the Austin Core Transportation Plan seeks to create a cohesive and adaptable transportation framework that addresses the unique mobility challenges of downtown Austin while building on previous downtown planning efforts and integrating upcoming major infrastructure projects like I-35 Capital Express Central and Project Connect; and WHEREAS, the Downtown street network is 1% of Austin’s overall network but accounts for 12% of all pedestrian crashes and 17% of intersection-related pedestrian crashes; and WHEREAS, the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan sets a goal of 50% non-single occupancy vehicle mode share by 2039; and WHEREAS, two-way streets are safer and increase economic activity where conversions are implemented; and WHEREAS, street trees and additional shade downtown make walking more feasible and can even reduce vehicle speeds; and WHEREAS, the East side of downtown is not currently slated to have a new on-street, high- quality North-South bicycle facility in the current ACT plan; and WHEREAS, the Downtown Austin Alliance Downtown Parking Study was created to comprehensively and holistically find parking management solutions to better serve the residents, workers, and visitors of downtown Austin; and WHEREAS, the Urban Land Institute convened a Technical Assistance Panel focused on reducing the growth of parking downtown, improving management of current parking supply, improving the human experience downtown, and improving other transportation modes; and WHEREAS, City Council Resolution No. 20240201-054 and corresponding ordinances seek to reduce the overall number of new parking spaces built within downtown Austin and create a more pedestrian-oriented built environment; and WHEREAS, the future Austin Light Rail and expanded MetroRapid services are projected to carry tens of thousands additional riders into downtown; and WHEREAS, there are limited resources devoted to transportation infrastructure improvements across the City, with competing priorities, including installing transportation facilities outside of downtown where no current facilities exist; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the UTC recommends that the City Council adopt the Austin Core Transportation plan; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Urban Transportation Commission recommends the Austin Core Transportation Plan prioritizes the needs of pedestrians, cyclists, and non-car modes of transportation throughout the downtown area over car volume throughput; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the UTC recommends the ACT plan continue the protected bike lane on Red River Street from 7th Street to 12th Street, as contemplated by the 2023 Bicycle Plan and the active project listed …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Urban Transportation Commission Recommendation No. 20250304-006: Austin Light Rail Draft Environmental Impact Statement WHEREAS, the Project Connect Contract with the Voters defines Project Connect as “a high capacity transit system, to address the City's transit needs for safer, faster, and more reliable transportation that will improve access to essential services, such as education, health care, grocery stores, childcare, and jobs, especially in historically underserved and underrepresented communities;” WHEREAS, the ballot language for Proposition A of the November 3rd, 2020 election noted that Project Connect would include “associated road, sidewalk, bike, and street lighting improvements;” WHEREAS, the Austin Transit Partnership (ATP) oversees the design, construction, and completion of the Project Connect Light Rail Implementation Plan; WHEREAS, on May 2nd, 2023 the City of Austin Urban Transportation Commission (UTC) recommended that the City of Austin and ATP engage “in a scoping project for multimodal investments to ensure light rail integrates with and expands Austin's existing and future pedestrian, bicycle, and transit connections;” WHEREAS, Project Connect is essential to accomplishing the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan’s 50/50 mode split goal by 2039; and WHEREAS, on January 10th, 2025 ATP released the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Austin Light Rail Phase 1 Project; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the UTC recommends ATP move forward with all light rail design elements and options suggested in the Draft EIS; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the UTC recommends that, in keeping with the Contract with the Voters, ATP should prioritize right-of-way for pedestrians, bicyclists, micro-mobility users, and other transit options in future design iterations over preserving access for private auto traffic. Motioned by: Commissioner Schumacher Seconded by: Commissioner Somers Date of Approval: 3/4/2025 Record of the vote: 7-0 Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
AUSTIN CONVENTION CENTER REDEVELOPMENT Draft/Confidential PROJECT Introduction Draft/Confidential Austin is the 11th largest city in the country. But the Austin Convention Center is only the 61st largest. Draft/Confidential 3 Once the redevelopment is complete, we expect the Austin Convention Center to be around the 35th largest in the country. Draft/Confidential 4 The redeveloped Austin Convention Center will be larger than: Charlotte Fort Worth Baltimore Nashville Kansas City Pittsburgh Draft/Confidential Austin’s new competitive set San Antonio Boston Seattle Philadelphia Denver Draft/Confidential Big changes are coming Draft/Confidential PROJECT SCOPE Draft/Confidential Numbers CONSTRUCTION COST $1.26B RENTABLE SPACE AREAS EXISTING CONVENTION CENTER 365,000 SF NEW CONVENTION CENTER INDOOR + OUTDOOR 550,000 + 70,000 SF Draft/Confidential PROJECT GOALS Draft/Confidential 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. Draft/Confidential Uniquely Austin Draft/Confidential SUSTAINABILITY Draft/Confidential Net Zero Carbon Green Building • ILFI Zero Carbon Certification • Net Zero Operational Carbon • Embodied Carbon Reduction • LEED Gold • AEGB 3-Star Generational project that is transforming the Austin market for: • high performance design • low-carbon concrete + steel • construction salvage + reuse • mass timber Draft/Confidential RECONNECTING AUSTIN Draft/Confidential Intersection of Past, Present, and Future Draft/Confidential Connections Urban to Landscape Draft/Confidential Landmark Buildings Central Library City Hall Convention Center Draft/Confidential PRESENTING Draft/Confidential Repairing Waller Grid Draft/Confidential Future Expansion Outdoor Event + The Warehouse • Enhance Connections and Movements • Flexible Event & Gathering Places • Abundant Shade & Comfort • Reflect History of the Site and Materials • Extension of Warehouse District Scale THE BACK YARD R E H T A G FESTIVAL E D A N E M O R P THE WAREHOUSE DISPLAY DROP-OFF BACKYAR D PROMENADE WAREHOUSE EXHALL TRINITY NECHES RED RIVER Outdoor Event Plaza Outdoor Event Plaza Draft/Confidential The Hub West and East • Reconcile the Downtown Urban Grid • Break the scale of …
Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, March 19, 2025 DOWNTOWN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19, 2025 The Downtown Commission convened the regular meeting on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at City Hall, 301W 2nd St, in a hybrid meeting format. COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE Ed Ishmael, Vice-Chair David Carroll Liz Coufal Kimberly Levinson Charles Peveto Sania Shifferd Philip Wiley COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY Jennifer Franklin Nkiru Gelles Anne-Charlotte Patterson Nelly Paulina Ramírez Spencer Schumacher CALL TO ORDER Vice Chair Ishmael called the meeting of the Downtown Commission to order at 5:31 pm. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission regular called meeting on February 19, 2025. The minutes from the meeting on February 19, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Peveto’s motion, Commissioner Levinson’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Breton was absent. Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, March 19, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the recent work towards renovating the Austin Convention Center. Presentation by Trisha Tatro, Director, Austin Convention Center Department. The presentation was made by Katy Zamesnik, Assistant Director, Austin Convention Center, and Riley Triggs, Capital Delivery Consultant, Capital Delivery Services Department. 3. Staff briefing regarding the Austin Historic Resource Survey by the Historic Preservation Office. Presentation by Sofia Wagner, Planner III, Planning Department. The presentation was made by Sofia Wagner, Planner III, Planning Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS Item 5 was taken up before Item 4 without objection. 5. Update from the liaison from the Urban Transportation Commission on Recommendation Number 20250304-003: Austin Core Transportation Plan and Recommendation Number 20250304-006: Austin Light Rail Draft Environmental Impact Statement. Discussed. 4. Update from the liaison from the Parks and Recreation Board on the topics discussed at the January 2025, and February 2025, board meetings. Discussed. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS University Neighborhood Overlay Officer Elections Shared Micromobility Program Homeless Office Update Downtown Austin Plan Update Red River Cultural District ADJOURNMENT A motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:59 p.m. was approved on Commissioner Levinson’s motion, Commissioner Peveto’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Breton was absent. The minutes were approved at the April 16, 2025, meeting on Commissioner Peveto’s motion, Commissioner Levinson’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Coufal was off the dais. Commissioner Shifferd was absent.
REGULAR MEETING of the COMMISSION ON VETERAN AFFAIRS Wednesday, March 19, 2025 7:00 PM – Adjournment City of Austin Permitting & Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr., Room 1401/1402 Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the Commission on Veteran Affairs may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register, email the board liaison at Jesus.Simental@austintexas.gov CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Michael Mcinerney, Chair Amber Schleuning, Vice Chair Christopher Wilson William Dahlstrom Maria Brown-Spence Armando Gonzales Patrick Bissett Mark Balch Philip Reichert Curtis Wyman Gustavo Ramirez CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION APPROVAL OF MINUTES 2025. AGENDA 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Veteran Affairs Regular Meeting of Feb 19, STAFF BRIEFINGS DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Staff briefing on boards and commissions reappointments. 3. Presentation and discussion by Justin Holcomb from Tunnel to Towers Foundation on programs and services offered to veterans. 4. Presentation and discussion by David Gray from Homeless Strategy Office on addressing homelessness in the City of Austin. 5. Discussion on City of Austin veteran surveys. DISCUSSION AND ACTION 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 Jesus Simental at (512) 974-7742 or jesus.simental@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711.
