Protection and Enforcement BRIEF #8 FOR PRESERVATION PLAN WORKING GROUP | APRIL 2022 Historic review Exterior changes to historic landmarks and districts Work that exceeds approvals Work beyond the scope of an approved permit Work without a permit Demolition by neglect Failure to maintain a resource See the Heritage in Austin brief for more information. 1 This brief explores how cities work with property owners to safeguard historic resources, as well as measures that can be taken when things go awry. Demolition by neglect Failure to maintain a resource Vacant buildings Long-term vacant and unoccupied buildings Current practices in Austin Requirements for historic buildings • Get a permit for work as required by code • Maintain historic buildings to established standards. In Austin, these are nearly the same as minimum maintenance requirements for all buildings) Penalties for violations Civil offense /Class C misdemeanor • Fines not to exceed $1,000 per day • • If a building is demolished as a public safety hazard after 2+ demolition by neglect notices, no permits will be considered on that property for 3 years from the date of demolition 2 Historic inspections Some city preservation programs conduct inspections to make sure historic buildings are being maintained, identify work to landmarks and in districts without permits, and check eligibility for preservation incentives. However, most only do complaint-based inspections due to limited staff capacity. Historic inspections conducted based on... Complaints Incentives Permitting Project stage type Periodic Unknown/ not found x x x x x x x x x x x x x x * These comparable cities have dedicated inspections and enforcement staff as part of the historic preservation team. Washington, DC does as well. Atlanta Austin Brownsville Dallas Denver Fort Worth * Galveston Nashville * New York Phoenix San Antonio San Francisco * * Seattle 3 Penalties for violations Some cities charge daily penalties for violations; others cap total penalties at a certain amount. Two comparable cities, New York and Phoenix, appear to charge fees based on whether the violation is a repeat offense or the property owner a repeat offender. $50-5k A recent survey on preservation enforcement from the Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans received responses from 34 cities. This question asked how cities set specific fines for work without historic approval. $2k $2k L A T O T - S E I T L A N E P n o i t …
M E M O R A N D U M TO: Mayor and Council Members THROUGH: Veronica Briseño, Assistant City Manager Stephanie Hayden-Howard, Assistant City Manager FROM: José G. Roig, Development Services Director Richard McHale, Austin Resource Recovery Director DATE: July 16, 2024 SUBJECT: Response to Council Resolution 20231102-024 - Permitting for House Relocation We want to share with you an update on Resolution 20231102-024, relating to the permitting process for house relocation within Austin. The resolution directs the City Manager to develop a strategy to build awareness and minimize barriers in partnership with community stakeholders and groups. increase house relocation, to The Development Services Department (DSD), in partnership with Austin Resource Recovery (ARR), the Planning Department, and key stakeholder groups, has developed recommendations for action. On March 26, 2024, DSD met with stakeholders to discuss solutions, potential challenges, and competing factors to incentivize relocation within Austin. Attendees identified potential solutions that fell into the following themes: streamlining the relocation permitting process, reducing costs, integrating relocation with the HOME Initiative, workforce training and development, and revising the recycling ordinance. Recommendations The Department will continue to analyze the proposed solutions for possible integration. The recommendations, which will be implemented immediately, include creating general public and contractor training on relocation permitting, prioritizing relocation application submittals for faster processing, and developing a fee waiver or voucher to cover relocation permit review costs. Related to this last solution, the funding source would need to be determined by the Council. To ensure a complete and accurate permit review, a new application will be required for each submitted project. Demolitions and relocations have specific requirements for a complete review and, as such, would require new applications when switching between project types. The DSD application intake teams have greatly improved their processing time for new submittals, and the permit fees for these two project types are identical. To ensure auditing and reporting integrity, fees cannot be transferred between projects. Page 1 of 2 DSD will seek to build awareness of the relocation process as a viable alternative to demolition in the Austin community and create training for the general public and contractors. DSD will also work to: Improve the clarification and promotion of the relocation permitting process by updating its website about the process and other community resources required for house relocation and related services. The updated website is expected to be completed by Fall 2024. Disseminate …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD JULY 22, 2024 – 6:00 PM CITY HALL CHAMBERS, ROOM 1001 301 W. 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Parks and Recreation Board may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. For remote participation, registration must be completed no later than noon the day before the meeting. To register to speak, click here: https://forms.office.com/g/3Uyvu0e2qf or call or email Tim Dombeck, (512) 974- 6716, Tim.Dombeck@austintexas.gov. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and may be allowed up to three (3) minutes to provide their comments. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Pedro Villalobos (D-2), Chair Kathryn Flowers (D-4), Vice Chair Shelby Orme (D-1) Nicole Merritt (D-3) Stephanie Bazan (D-5) Cathleen Eady (D-6) VACANT (D-7) Kim Taylor (D-8) Jennifer Franklin (D-9) Holly Reed (D-10) Lane Becker (Mayor) CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of June 17, 2024. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for community members and active participation in community engagement for the playscape replacement at Metz Neighborhood Park. (Sponsors: Villalobos, Flowers). (PARD Long Range Strategies: Relief from Urban Life, Operational Efficiency, Park Access for All). Presenter(s): Reynaldo Hernandez, Project Manager and Jonathan Haynes, Program Supervisor, Parks and Recreation Department. Approve the Parks and Recreation board Annual Internal Review and Report. (Sponsors: Villalobos, Flowers). STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing on Parks and Recreation Department Community PARKnership Program. (Sponsors: Reed, Taylor). (PARD Long Range Strategies: Relief from Urban Life, Operational Efficiency, Urban Public Spaces). Presenter(s): Christine Chute Canul, Program Manager II, Parks and Recreation Department. Page 1 of 2 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Staff briefing on progress of the Festival Beach Soundwall and pedestrian improvements. (PARD Long Range Strategies: Relief from Urban Life, Urban Public Spaces, Park Access for All). Presenter(s): JT Stewart, Senior Planner, Parks and Recreation Department. Staff briefing on Parks and Recreation Department community engagement events, planning updates, development updates, maintenance updates, program updates and administrative updates. (Sponsors: Villalobos, Flowers). (PARD Long Range Strategies: Relief from Urban Life, Urban Public Spaces, Park Access …
City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department Community PARKnerships Program Christine Chute Canul, Community PARKnerships Manager I City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department Park Planning Division Community PARKnerships Briefing Overview PARKnerships Program Briefing Includes: Does Not Include: • Programs and Initiatives Overview • Alignment with City and Department • Lease, Usage and License Agreements Goals • PARD PARKners • PARKnership Configurations and Collaborative Partnership Agreements • Program Impact • Contractual Obligation and Service Agreements • Concession Contracts Community PARKnerships |Encompasses the Following Programs & Initiatives Environmental Volunteer Stewardship Community Activated Park Projects Program (CAPP) Adopt-A-Park Program Cities Connecting Children to Nature (CCCN) School Parks | AISD JUA PARD PARKners Environmental Stewardship Volunteers on City parkland annually provide over $1 million in labor—they pick up litter, mulch trees, remove invasive species, plant saplings, serve as citizen scientists, and more. Partners facilitate stewardship events that are aligned with City standards for safety and environmental compliance. PARD reviews these events and provides guidance on all projects proposed on parkland. • Over 11,900 volunteers worked more than 31,000 hours in FY23 • FY23 volunteers planted over 1,400 trees and collected over 82,000 lbs. of trash Adopt-A-Park This collaboration between PARD and the Austin Parks Foundation (APF) helps community members become stewards and civic leaders. Leaders organize a community- based group that makes an ongoing commitment to engage their neighborhood around park related issues. Adopt-A-Park aims to build community agency and ownership around every neighborhood park in Austin. • 108 parks had adopters in FY23 • An additional 106 eligible parks (district, neighborhood, and pocket) were not adopted Adopt-A-Park group volunteering with It’s My Park Day at St. John Pocket Park, District 4 Community Activated Park Project (CAPP) Program The CAPP Program streamlines a proposal and implementation process for our nonprofit partners and community members seeking to initiate, engage, plan, design and implement improvements on parkland. • 133 CAPP proposals received in FY23 • 549 CAPP proposals received since program launch in 2018 Lighting at Heath Eiland and Morgan Moss Skatepark, District 9 Examples of CAPPs, FY23 Lighting at Davis White Neighborhood Park, District 1 Bike polo facilities at Metz Neighborhood Park, District 3 Basketball court resurfacing at Dove Springs (pictured) & Garrison District Parks, District 2 Community Activated Park Project Program Feasibility Review Submission Review Site Visit Approval or Denial Proposing community member completes form with project description. CAPP coordinator routes proposal for …
REGULAR MEETING of the HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Monday, July 22, 2024, 6:00 p.m. Austin City Hall, Room 1101 301 W. 2nd St Austin, Texas Some members of the Human Rights Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Eric Anderson at eric.anderson@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-2562. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Kolby Duhon, Chair (He/They) Gabriella Zeidan, Vice Chair Alicia Weigel (She/They) Michael Stevenson Muneeb ‘Meebs’ Aslam (He/Him) Morgan Davis (He/Him) Mariana Krueger (She/Her) Jeffrey Clemmons Srini Raghavan Harriett Kirsh Pozen Danielle Bryant CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on June 24, 2024. Discussion of changing the Human Rights Commission December 23, 2024, meeting date. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. Discussion of upcoming community back to school events. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Approve the Human Rights Commission 2023 Annual Internal Report and Review, including the Commission’s goals and objectives for the next year. 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 or contact Eric Anderson, Office eric.anderson@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Human Rights Commission, please contact Eric Anderson at (512) 974-2562 or eric.anderson@austintexas.gov. the City Clerk 974-2562 (512) of at
Equity-Based Preservation Plan Relevant Recommendations from Draft Plan, July 2024 Note: Recommenda(cid:415)on numbers may change in final plan. Historic sign guidelines 13. Develop an addendum for landscape management to the City of Aus(cid:415)n Historic Design Standards. 34. Improve historic designation and historic review processes to be more clear, streamlined, and transparent. Work with community members, including people with a range of experience levels navigating local historic processes, to improve processes for and communication around historic designation and historic review. Leverage resources and expertise from the Equity Office and Office of Innovation. 35. Develop accessible materials about historic preservation, community heritage, incentives, archaeology, and City historic designation and review processes. Ensure that the Historic Preservation Office website, applications, and outreach materials are clear and accessible to people without formal preservation training. Provide resources in multiple languages and publicize the City’s commitment to offer interpretation at community meetings. 90. Stop requiring review of changes to privately owned properties in National Register districts. Follow state and national best practices and strategically use limited staff time by treating National Register district properties like other 45+ year-old buildings in terms of code-required review for landmark eligibility. Encourage property owners in National Register districts to consult with staff and neighborhood associations on project compatibility and to create locally designated historic districts. Establish a staff-level advisory review process for City- owned properties listed in the National Register. Demoli(cid:415)on by neglect 98. Improve enforcement processes to be clearer and more accessible. Work with community members, contractors, other building professionals, and City departments and commissions to improve and clarify enforcement processes. Proactively provide clear, easily accessible information about how demolition by neglect and permit violations are enforced and remedied. 102. Augment penalty fees with non-financial penalties that more effectively deter violations. Clearly communicate potential penalties to property owners and contractors. Consider substantial penalties such as prohibiting building permits for 3-5 years where unpermitted demolition of a historic building has occurred. Focus on building partnerships with property owners and contractors rather than exacting penalties. 103. Increase penalties for repeat violators. Increase penalties for informed, intentional violators. In cases where property owners do not have resources to maintain their buildings, leverage the economic hardship provision and provide financial and technical resources to help avoid repeat violations. 104. Better enforce violations. Work with Development Services Department, Austin Code, and Law Department staff to ensure that enforcement processes are followed in a timely …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE ZERO WASTE ADVISORY COMMISSION JULY 22, 2024 6:00 PM AUSTIN ENERGY HEADQUARTERS/SHUDDE FATH CONFERENCE ROOM 4815 MUELLER BLVD AUSTIN, TEXAS 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: Gary Acuna, Chair Ian Steyaert, Vice Chair Melissa Caudle Cathy Gattuso Caitlin Griffith Amanda Masino Craig Nazor Melissa Rothrock Katrina Scheihing Vacant 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. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Zero Waste Advisory Commission meeting on May 08, 2024. 2. Discussion and action regarding a recommendation on the FY 2024/25 Austin Resource 3. Discussion and action on the Annual Internal Review of the Zero Waste Advisory Commission for July 2023 through June 2024. ACTION ITEMS Recovery Budget. STAFF BRIEFINGS Financial Manager. 4. Staff briefing on the FY 2024/25 Austin Resource Recovery Budget by Victoria Rieger, 5. Staff briefing on the status of Austin Resource Recovery operational and administrative projects as well as public outreach efforts by Richard McHale, Director of Austin Resource Recovery. 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 Claudia Quiroz at Claudia.Quiroz@AustinTexas.gov at (512) 974-1987 or via email at Claudia.Quiroa@AustinTexas.gov.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE HIV PLANNING COUNCIL BUSINESS COMMITTEE MEETING MONDAY, JULY 22, 2024, 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. 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 the Office of Support at (737)-825-1684 or email HIVPlanningCouncil@austintexas.gov. CURRENT HIV PLANNING COUNCIL MEMBERS: Kelle’ Martin, Chair Marquis Goodwin, Vice Chair, Conflicted Alicia Alston Joe Anderson, Conflicted, Non-Voting Liza Bailey Aran Belani AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Zachery Garay, Conflicted Ashley Garling Judith Hassan, Conflicted Rocky Lane, Non-Voting Kristina McRae-Thompson Gin Pham PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up no later than noon on 7/21/2024 will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. June 24, 2024 CONFLICT OF INTEREST DECLARATIONS 2. Members will declare conflicts of interest with relevant agenda items, service categories, and/or service standards. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Introductions/Announcements 4. Office of Support Staff Report 5. Administrative Agent Report 6. Part B Report DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Presentation of Clinical Quality Management Updates 8. Presentation of HIV Surveillance information regarding Disparities and Health Equity 9. Discussion of Mental Health Treatment within the HIV care system 10. Discussion and approval of Assessment of the Administrative Mechanism (AAM) Tool Fiscal Year 24 (FY24) 11. Discussion and approval Needs Assessment Year 2 Literature Review Outline 12. Discussion and approval of Priority Setting and Resource Allocation Meeting Dates 13. Discussion and approval of Directives 14. Discussion and approval of Secretary 15. Discussion of the Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE) marketing materials COMMITTEE UPDATES 16. Governance/Membership and Care Strategies 17. Finance/Allocations and Strategic Planning/Needs Assessment 18. Review of workplan calendar and social calendar FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 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 …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Zero Waste Advisory Commission Recommendation Number 20240722-002 Recommendation to Support Austin Resource Recovery FY25 Budget Proposal 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, 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, Unprecedented pandemic and weather events since 2020 have greatly impacted the logistical and financial challenges associated with the daily course of waste and recycling collection throughout the greater Travis, Williamson and Hays County areas; 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 is stressed 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 2024-2025 Budget cycle; Now Therefore, NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Zero Waste Advisory Commission respectfully asks City Management and City Council to formally consider the financial implications of addressing the City of Austin's current and unforeseen needs associated with the responsible implementation of ARR's daily waste, recycling, heavy brush and organic recycling collection operations by responsibly increasing ARR's Reserve Fund Balance to meet at a minimum a …
To: From: Date: Zero Waste Advisory Commission Richard McHale, Director, Aus�n Resource Recovery July 22, 2024 Subject: Director’s Monthly Report to the Zero Waste Advisory Commission Deannexation Impact on Austin Resource Recovery In accordance with Texas Legislation HB3053, enacted during the 88th Legislative session in 2023, Lost Creek and an area near Blue Goose Road will no longer receive municipal waste services from Austin Resource Recovery (ARR). As a result, it is necessary to remove all City-provided refuse, organics, and recycling carts from the neighborhood. Through its subcontractor, Austin Resource Recovery (ARR) will facilitate the removal of approximately 3,500 carts located at homes within the impacted areas. ARR is coordinating with other city departments and the community to ensure a smooth transition. The expected annual revenue loss from discontinuing these services is estimated at $579,000. We understand that this change may cause inconvenience and are committed to providing as much support as possible during this period. Multi-family Composting In September 2023, City Council approved amendments to the Universal Recycling Ordinance (URO) that will require composting access at multi-family properties in Austin. This policy change will be effective on October 1, 2024. Austin Resource Recovery (ARR) sent all multi-family property owners and managers letters in May and e-mails in June to notify them of the ordinance change. More information at: https://www.austintexas.gov/multifamilycompost. Circular Austin Accelerator Austin’s Circular Accelerator aims to help local entrepreneurs turn their ideas of achieving a waste-free world into social impact enterprises. From May thru August, 10 entrepreneurs are receiving no-cost technical business training and coaching to help refine their business concepts. They will be required to attend six workshops, a mix of in-person and virtual. In-person workshops will be held at City of Austin Economic Development offices in District 3. The program will culminate in a soft pitch on August 15, where the top 3 will receive entry to compete at Circular Showcase in late August for prize money. Learn more at: https://www.austintexas.gov/circularshowcase. Fix-It Austin Fix-It Austin, an initiative of Austin Resource Recovery’s Circular Economy Team, will host a series of repair-related workshops and Fix-It Clinics at APL branches and PARD facilities. On July 16, there will be a Community PC Program event where staff and interns will help teens discover the inner workings of laptops through hands-on disassembly and troubleshooting. This workshop is designed for 13–18-year-olds. Learn more and register at https://www.austintexas.gov/fixit. MoveOutATX The sixth-annual MoveOutATX takes …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD JULY 22, 2024 – 6:00 PM CITY HALL CHAMBERS, ROOM 1001 301 W. 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Parks and Recreation Board may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. For remote participation, registration must be completed no later than noon the day before the meeting. To register to speak, click here: https://forms.office.com/g/3Uyvu0e2qf or call or email Tim Dombeck, (512) 974- 6716, Tim.Dombeck@austintexas.gov. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and may be allowed up to three (3) minutes to provide their comments. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Pedro Villalobos (D-2), Chair Kathryn Flowers (D-4), Vice Chair Shelby Orme (D-1) Nicole Merritt (D-3) Stephanie Bazan (D-5) Cathleen Eady (D-6) VACANT (D-7) Kim Taylor (D-8) Jennifer Franklin (D-9) Holly Reed (D-10) Lane Becker (Mayor) AGENDA ADDENDUM DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Approve a recommendation to Austin City Council to allocate an additional $2.62 million to the Parks and Recreation Department's budget for the upcoming fiscal year; and that of this amount, $2.24 million be allocated towards parks maintenance, including $1.5 million in ongoing funding and $740,000 in one-time funding, to support 16 year-round full-time equivalent (FTE) positions and necessary supplies; and that $385,000 be allocated towards the Homeless Encampment Response Team, including $375,000 in ongoing funding and $10,000 in one-time funding, to support 4 year-round FTE positions, operations, and necessary supplies. (Sponsors: Villalobos, Flowers). DISCUSSION ITEMS 8. Discussion on community engagement opportunities for the permanent location for boating concessions at Festival Beach and the amendment to the Holly Shores/Edward Rendon Sr. at Festival Beach Vision Plan to include that location, per City Council Ordinance No. 20191205- 070. (Sponsors: Reed, Taylor). 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 Tim Dombeck at Parks and Recreation Department, at (512) 974-6716 Tim.Dombeck@austintexas.gov, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Parks and Recreation Board, please contact Tim Dombeck at (512) 974-6716 Tim.Dombeck@austintexas.gov. Page 1
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES JUNE 17, 2024 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES JUNE 17, 2024 The PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD convened in a SPECIAL CALLED meeting on June 17, 2024 at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Villalobos called the PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Pedro Villalobos, Kathryn Flowers, Jennifer Franklin, Holly Reed. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Stephanie Bazan, Lane Becker, Nicole Merritt, Shelby Orme, Kim Taylor. Board Members Absent: None. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Liz Barhydt - Austin Rowing Club Sharon Blythe - Cemetery advocate Scott Cobb - Lifeguard hiring Andrea Hill - Lifeguard hiring and chain of command issues Chris Flores - Violet Crown and Barton Springs Pool Joy Casnovsky - Austin Parks Foundation Elisa Rendon Montoya - Holly Shores concerns Bertha Rendon Delgado - Edward Rendon Holly Shores Master Plan Frank Estrada - Possible renaming of Camacho Activity Center Phillip Thomas - Edward Rendon Sr. Park and Holly Shores concerns Ricardo Chavana - Hispanic Baseball League APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of May 20, 2024. The motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of May 20, 2024 was approved on Chair Villalobos’ motion, Vice Chair Flower’s second on a 9-0 vote with two vacancies. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for enhancements to the PARD Cemeteries Program. 2. 1 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES JUNE 17, 2024 Jason Walker, Cemeteries Division Manager and Lucas Massie, Assistant Director, Parks and Recreation Department gave a presentation and answered questions on private organizations doing interments. The motion to approve letters of support for enhancements to the PARD Cemeteries Program was approved on Chair Villalobos' motion, Board Member Reed’s second on a 9-0 vote with two vacancies. 3. Presentation, discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council to approve the negotiation and execution of a Parkland Improvement Agreement with Hill Country Conservancy for the Violet Crown Mile Zero Trailhead project that includes a maximum amount of funding of $900,000 the Parks and Recreation Department will allocate to Hill Country Conservancy for a portion of the cost to construct the project. D'Anne Williams, Project Manager, Parks and Recreation Department and Kathy Miller, CEO, Hill Country Conservancy gave a presentation and answered questions on …
Austin Parks and Recreation Department Metz Playground Replacement Recognition Parks and Recreation Board, July 22, 2024 Reynaldo Hernandez Jr, PLA, PMP, Park Development Jonathan Haynes, Supervisor, Rudy Mendez Recreation Center Seth Conway, Activity Specialist, Rudy Mendez Recreation Center Background • Council District 3 • Rodolfo “Rudy” Mendez Recreation Center built in 1972 and renovated in 2006. • Existing playscape installed in 2001 • PARD through the playground condition assessment identified this playground to be in poor condition and prioritized for replacement Background cont. Project Goals: • Replace existing playscape to provide enhanced opportunities for play within existing playground area • Increase shade in and around the playscape • Increase accessibility per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) • Engage community on play opportunities, theming and nature- based play elements Community Engagement • ROUND #1 (May 23- June 17): • Gathered over 100 responses from online survey and Mendez Rec. Kid's survey • ROUND #2 (July 1 – July 19): • Launched second survey with 45 Mendez Rec. Campers Recognition How can we help?! • Mendez After School Program • Scarlett and Ayden • Mr. Seth • Metz Playscape community engagement survey served as inspiration Creating Community & Opportunity Incorporating planning strategies can be fun! This project created youth opportunities to: • Plan, do, review • Interact and share ideas • Collaborate • Activate Youth Choice • Amplify Youth Voice Round # 1 Engagement Results • 72 paper surveys completed. • 31 online survey responses • Results determined ranked theming and preferred play features Project Participants • PARD Development • Reynaldo Hernandez, PLA, PMP • Katie Kimball, Landscape Designer • Mendez Recreation Center Staff • Jonathon Haynes, Supervisor • Seth Conway, Activity Specialist • PARD Communications and • Mendez Recreation Center Engagement Unit • Adrienne O'Keefe, Community Engagement Specialist Participant Leaders • Scarlett Reyes • Ayden Delgado Questions?
Austin Parks and Recreation Department Sound Wall at Festival Beach Staff Briefing Parks and Recreation Board, July 22nd, 2024 JT Stewart, Planner Sr., Parks and Recreation Department Project Progress Summary • First briefed Parks Board on January 22nd, 2024 • Previous Department Director Kimberly McNeeley accepted sound wall offer from Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) in February 2024 • PARD Planning staff met w/ Transportation and Public Works (TPW), CapMetro, Urban Trails, and community stakeholders to gather feedback on necessary and desired amenities related to the wall • TPW developed concept sketch (slide 6) and reviewed with stakeholders. Concept included: • ADA ramps • Crosswalks • Curb bulb-out • Water fountain • Irrigation • TxDOT reviewed and responded with modified concept map (slide 7) Traffic Noise Analysis Results 2 Barriers (north barrier removed) 3 Barriers Festival Beach Food Forest and Festival Beach Community Garden Original Concept Festival Beach Food Forest and Festival Beach Community Garden Add drinking fountain. Include SUP connection to Flores/ Waller intersection for access to ADA crossings. Show existing sidewalk that connects IH 35 frontage to Waller (constructed 2023). Show new curb line. Can reduce FOC to FOC on Flores to 24' with bulbout to make space for ramps without moving poles. Corner radii should be 10' to match existing. 0.63 ft 24 ft Add irrigation meter at each sound wall. Include ADA ramps for crossing Flores and Waller. Appears the existing MH can remain, verify if adjustment is needed from SUP slab Existing guy wires will need to be adjusted. Can reduce FOC to FOC on Flores to 24' with bulbout to make space for ramps without moving poles. Corner radii should be 10' to match existing. Show existing sidewalk that connects IH 35 frontage to Waller (constructed 2023). Show new curb line. Add irrigation meter at each sound wall (on the side of IH-35) 0.63 ft 2244fftt Add drinking fountain. LOCATION IS IN CONFLICT WITH ILLUMINATION MOVE TO PINK STAR Include SUP connection to Flores/Waller intersection for access to ADA crossings. Add irrigation meter at each sound wall City/PARD's proposed meter locations are too close to noise walls, AW will likely not approve. Please confirm. In addition, meter at north of Flores is within Critical Root Zone. City Markups GEC Remarks Pape Dawson Coordination with AW IF THIS CHANGE PLACES THE WL IN CURB/GUTTER, IT WOULD BE AN ISSUE FOR AW Include ADA ramps for …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION YYYYMMDD-XXX Seconded By: Additional Funding for Maintenance and Homeless Response Date: Subject: Motioned By: Recommendation The Parks and Recreation Board Recommends that Austin City Council allocate an additional $2.62 million to the Parks and Recreation Department's budget for the upcoming fiscal year; and that of this amount, $2.24 million be allocated towards parks maintenance, including $1.5 million in ongoing funding and $740,000 in one-time funding, to support 16 year- round full-time equivalent (FTE) positions and necessary supplies; and that $385,000 be allocated towards the Homeless Encampment Response Team, including $375,000 in ongoing funding and $10,000 in one-time funding, to support 4 year-round FTE positions, operations, and necessary supplies. Rationale: Whereas, the City of Austin's Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) plays a critical role in maintaining the city's parks, green spaces, and recreational facilities, contributing to the overall quality of life and well-being of Austin residents; and Whereas, the demand for park maintenance has increased significantly due to the growing population and the increased use of park facilities, necessitating additional resources to ensure these spaces are safe, clean, and accessible to all residents; and Whereas, the Parks and Recreation Department is currently underfunded, limiting its ability to adequately maintain park facilities, leading to deteriorating conditions and reduced enjoyment for the community; and Whereas, the Homeless Encampment Response Team (HERT) provides essential services by addressing the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness within parks and ensuring the safety and cleanliness of these public spaces for all users; and Whereas, the HERT requires additional funding to effectively manage and respond to homeless encampments, ensuring that all park users, including those experiencing homelessness, receive the support and services they need; Therefore, be it resolved, that the Austin City Council is hereby recommended to allocate an additional $2.62 million to the Parks and Recreation Department's budget for the upcoming fiscal year; and Be it further resolved, that of this amount, $2.24 million be allocated towards parks maintenance, including $1.5 million in ongoing funding and $740,000 in one-time funding, to support 16 year-round full-time equivalent (FTE) positions and necessary supplies; and 1 of 2 Be it further resolved, that $385,000 be allocated towards the Homeless Encampment Response Team, including $375,000 in ongoing funding and $10,000 in one-time funding, to support 4 year-round FTE positions, operations, and necessary supplies. Vote For: Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: [Staff or board member can sign] 2 of …
1. HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES MONDAY JUNE 24, 2024 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on June 24, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon, Chair Gabriella Zeidan, Vice Chair Jeffrey Clemmons Morgan Davis Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Meebs Aslam Danielle Bryant Harriet Kirsh Pozen Srini Raghavan Michael Stevenson Alicia Weigel Commissioners Absent: Mariana Krueger PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission Special Called Meeting on May 20, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of May 20, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Clemmons’ motion, Commissioner Kirsh Pozen’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Davis and Weigel were off the dais. Commissioner Krueger was absent. 1 3. 4. DISCUSSION ITEM Discussion of the State of Texas' Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Ban (Senate Bill 17). Discussed. 2. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Approve a recommendation to Council to address the rise in drug overdoses in the City of Austin, promote the legalization of fentanyl testing strips, and promote harm reduction efforts. The motion to approve the recommendation to address the rise in drug overdoses in the City of Austin, promote the legalization of fentanyl testing strips, and promote harm reduction efforts was approved on Commissioner Clemmons’ motion, Vice Chair Zeidan’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Krueger was absent. Approve a recommendation to Council on public safety at Austin Pride Parade and Pride Events. The motion to approve the recommendation on public safety at Austin Pride Parade and Pride Events with the following friendly amendment was approved on Commissioner Davis’ motion, Commissioner Aslam’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Krueger was absent. The friendly amendment from Chair Duhon was to remove the fourth Whereas clause. This was accepted by the maker of the motion, Commissioner Davis. COMMITTEE UPDATES FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 5. Update from the Joint Inclusion Committee on the Commission on Veterans Affairs joining the Joint Inclusion Committee and the City of Austin Poet Laureate Program. Commissioner Davis provided an update. Commissioners Aslam and Clemmons requested a staff briefing on the status of the homeless services audit. Chair Duhon and Commission Davis requested an item to approve and discuss the Human Rights Commission Annual Internal Review and Report. ADJOURNMENT Chair Duhon adjourned the meeting at 6:31 p.m. without …
Annual Internal Review This report covers the time period of 7/1/2023 to 6/30/2024 ____________________________________ City of Austin Human Rights Commission The Board/Commission mission statement (per the City Code) is: (A)The Human Rights Commission should be composed of members who as nearly as possible are representative of the several social, economic, religious, cultural, ethnic, and racial groups which comprise the population of the City. (B)The commission shall: (1)advise and consult with the city council on all matters involving racial, religious, or ethnic discrimination, and devise practices to promote equal opportunity; (2)serve in an advisory and consultive capacity to all city departments, advisory boards, and regulatory agencies to assure effective compliance with non-discrimination policies and orders, and recommend to the city manager measures to improve the ability of various departments and agencies to ensure equal protection of any and all persons and groups against discrimination; (3)recommend to the city council legislation to aid in programs designed to eliminate prejudice and discrimination and encourage community support for the legislation; (4)aid in the formulation of local community groups in neighborhoods as needed to carry out specific programs; (5)initiate and facilitate discussions and negotiations between individuals and groups to lessen tensions and improve understanding in the community; (6)institute and conduct educational programs to promote equal treatment, opportunity and understanding, and sponsor meetings, institutes, forums, and courses of instruction to lead to a clearer understanding and solution of human relations problems; (7)assist in training city employees to use methods of dealing with intergroup relations that result in respect for equal rights and equal treatment, and cooperate with law enforcement agencies whose primary jurisdiction is within the City to develop and include human rights courses in the curriculum of police training; (8)conduct research, obtain factual data, and hold public hearings to ascertain the status and treatment of racial, religious, and ethnic groups in the city and the best means of progressively improving human relations; (9)provide services and information to the city manager and heads of all city departments and agencies to achieve the purposes of this chapter; and (10)cooperate with all city, state, county, federal, and other governmental agencies, as well as racial, religious, ethnic, nationality, educational, community, civic, fraternal, benevolent and other groups, associations, societies, and individuals with constructive talents and resources helpful in achieving mutual appreciation of the privileges and the responsibilities of citizenship in a land of freedom enriched by free commerce and full …
Page 1 of 8 Annual Review and Work Plan 2024 Annual Internal Review This report covers the time period of 7/1/2023 to 6/30/2024 Parks and Recreation Board The Board/Commission mission statement (per the City Code) is: (A) The Parks and Recreation Board membership should include citizens of the city who are interested in public parks and public recreation and persons who are knowledgeable in recreation matters. The director of the Parks and Recreation Department, the city manager or designee, the director of the Financial and Administrative Services Department, and the city attorney are ex officio members of the board. (B) The board shall advise the city council and the city manager regarding: (1)the acquisition, development, improvement, equipment, programming, and maintenance of all land and facilities managed by the Parks and Recreation Department of the City of Austin; (2)the purchase of additional land to be managed by the Parks and Recreation Department of the City of Austin. (C) The board shall outline a general plan of development for land, facilities, and programs. The board may submit the plan to the Planning Commission and the city manager for detail development, and the city manager may then submit the plan to the city council for approval as may be required by the City Code. (D) The board shall promote close cooperation between the City and all private citizens, institutions, and agencies interested in or conducting recreational activities, so that all recreational resources within the City may be coordinated to secure the greatest public welfare. (E) The board shall perform other duties as prescribed by the City Code or as directed by the city council. Source: The Code of the City of Austin, Texas § 2-1-165 – Parks and Recreation Board Page 2 of 8 Annual Review and Work Plan 2024 1. Describe the board’s actions supporting their mission during the previous calendar year. Address all elements of the board’s mission statement as provided in the relevant sections of the City Code. The City of Austin Parks and Recreation Board has three areas of responsibility in its advisory function to the City Council. The activities this board took for fiscal year 2023-2024 are listed by area below. Unless otherwise noted, all recommendation were adopted at a meeting of the whole Parks and Recreation Board. A. The board shall advise the city council and the city manager regarding: (1) the acquisition, development, improvement, equipment, programming, …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD DIRECTOR’S UPDATE DATE: July 2024 DEVELOPMENT UPDATES: Highland Neighborhood Park and Reznicek Fields: On July 19th, the Department hosted a ribbon- cutting event for the Highland Neighborhood Park and Reznicek Fields Phase 2 Development. This project included two 125’ kickball fields, park lighting, a loop walking trail, benches, a new drinking fountain, a new parking lot, utilities for a future restroom/community building, a new site irrigation system, and 45 additional trees. In late 2024, a pedestrian bridge will be installed over Waller Creek, connecting to the natural surface trail along Waller Creek. The park is now re-opened to the public. This project was funded through the 2018 General Obligation Bond, Parkland Dedication Funding, and was awarded an Urban Forestry Grant through the City of Austin Development Services for the planting of 25 additional trees. The Highland Park Neighborhood Association also successfully applied for an Austin Parks Foundation grant for supplemental improvements, including a drinking fountain and a pedestrian bridge to be installed later. District 4 1 New ball fields and bleachers at Highland Neighborhood Park and Reznicek Fields Rainey Street Trailhead: The Trail Conservancy (TTC) held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 12th to celebrate the completion of the Rainey Street Trailhead project. This approximately 2-acre trailhead and park space includes multiple shaded seating areas, a new neighborhood lawn, a nature play area, a water access point, and protects the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail by adding new native restoration areas designed to prevent runoff and erosion from Rainey Street to Lady Bird Lake. Over 7,000 native plants and 130 new shade trees were planted in the restoration areas along with native grass and wildflower seeding. It also adds an ADA-accessible connection from the Rainey Street district to the trail, and components for increased safety, including lighting, signage, and wayfinding. This project was funded by The Trail Conservancy with support from Intracorp. A separate project focused on safety enhancements for the trail, as detailed in a 2023 memo, is in progress. The security camera was installed in November 2023, and new trail lighting, a sidewalk extension on East Avenue, and extensions to the split rail fence installed last year are expected to be completed by the end of the summer. District 9 Aerial view of the new Rainey Street Trailhead 2 2018 General Obligation Bond Program Proposition C - Parks and Recreation ($149 million) Update: The …
