HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2024 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on October 28, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon, Chair Gabriella Zeidan, Vice Chair Danielle Bryant Jeffrey Clemmons Mariana Krueger Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Meebs Aslam Morgan Davis Harriet Kirsh Pozen Alicia Weigel Commissioners Absent: Srini Raghavan PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Items 1 through 8 were acted on with one combined motion. 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on September 23, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of September 23, 2024, were approved on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Bryant’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Davis, Kirsh Pozen, and Krueger were off the dais. Commissioner Raghavan was absent. 1 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on May 23, 2022. The minutes from the meeting of May 23, 2022, were approved on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Bryant’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Davis, Kirsh Pozen, and Krueger were off the dais. Commissioner Raghavan was absent. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on June 27, 2022. The minutes from the meeting of June 27, 2022, were approved on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Bryant’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Davis, Kirsh Pozen, and Krueger were off the dais. Commissioner Raghavan was absent. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on July 25, 2022. The minutes from the meeting of July 25, 2022, were approved on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Bryant’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Davis, Kirsh Pozen, and Krueger were off the dais. Commissioner Raghavan was absent. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on August 22, 2022. The minutes from the meeting of August 22, 2022, were approved on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Bryant’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Davis, Kirsh Pozen, and Krueger were off the dais. Commissioner Raghavan was absent. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on September 26, 2022. The minutes from the meeting of September 26, 2022, were approved on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Bryant’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Davis, Kirsh …
DIRECTOR’S UPDATE Angela Means, Interim Director November 2024 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Ensure Parkland Offers Relief from Urban Life Natural Resources Updates Parkland Development Updates Parkland Development Updates: A U S T I N P A R K S A N D R E C R E A T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 1 Boyd Vance Theater at the George Washington Carver Cultural Center and Museum: The Boyd Vance Theater recently marked the successful completion of a significant renovation on November 16 coinciding with the premiere of the new documentary Haskell House and the Story of Clarksville. The extensive upgrades encompass the installation of new energy-efficient LED stage lighting, an enhanced audio and visual system, an upgraded stage rigging and fly cabling system, and improved backstage storage solutions. Additionally, the renovation includes the installation of a new dance room and theater stage flooring, as well as the modernization of the utility infrastructure. | District 1 George Washington Carver Museum Facility Expansion, Phase 1a & 1b: A series of community engagement meetings for Phase 1a & 1b of the George Washington Carver Museum Facility Expansion are scheduled through mid-January. The initial meetings will include an online “open house” on December 7 and an onsite open house on December 10. Attendance information will be distributed via a mailer, displayed on information panels at the facility, and posted on the project website. | District 1 Colony Park Pool: Construction on the Colony Park Pool began in May 2023 and is projected to achieve substantial completion in early December 2024. The new Community Pool, will serve the community year round. It features lap lanes, a water slide, a zero-entry activity pool, and new bathhouse facilities. The the new pool aligns with the objectives outlined in both the Aquatic Master Plan and the Colony Park District Park Master Plan. A soft opening is planned for January 2025, with the grand opening scheduled to coincide with the start of the swim season in 2025. | District 1 New lap pool filled at Colony Park District Park A U S T I N P A R K S A N D R E C R E A T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 2 Natural Resources Updates: Land Management Program Annual Update: The PARD Land Management Program experienced its most …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 28, 2024 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 28, 2024 The PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD convened in a REGULAR meeting on October 28, 2024 at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas Chair Villalobos called the PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Pedro Villalobos, Kathryn Flowers, Stephanie Bazan, Lane Becker, Cathleen Eady, Holly Reed. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Jennifer Franklin. Board Members Absent: Nicole Merritt, Shelby Orme, Kim Taylor. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Larry Akers - Hybrid Public Transit for Austin Cathy Cocco - Hybrid Public Transit for Austin Jerry Joe Benson - Sand Volleyball Facilities Laura Esparza - Daugherty Arts Center Rehabilitation Project Lucky Lemieux - Daugherty Arts Center Rehabilitation Project Malcom Yeatts - East Riverside Oltorf Combined Contact Team Ed Miller - East Riverside Oltorf Combined Contact Team Diana Prechter - Trail of Lights Contracts Aubrey Rudder - Austin Rowing Club APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of September 23, 2024. The motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of September 23, 2024 was approved on Chair Villalobos’ motion, Vice Chair Flowers’ second on a 7-0 vote with one vacancy. Board Members Merritt, Orme and Taylor absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for the Park Ranger Program for their work as ambassadors for Austin's park system that promote responsible recreation, cultivate stewardship, and conserve parks' cultural and natural resources for the benefit of our community. 2. 1 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 28, 2024 Amanda Ross, Natural Resources Division Manager, Parks and Recreation gave a presentation and answered questions on Scout the Dog, the number of full time Park Rangers and budgetary needs. The motion to approve letters of support for the Park Ranger Program for their work as ambassadors for Austin's park system that promote responsible recreation, cultivate stewardship, and conserve parks' cultural and natural resources for the benefit of our community was approved on Chair Villalobos’ motion, Vice Chair Flowers’ second on a 7-0 vote with one vacancy. Board Members Merritt, Orme and Taylor absent. 3. Presentation, discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council to approve the permanent use and temporary use, not to exceed 420 days of parkland located at Salt Springs Neighborhood …
Aquatics Division Barton Springs Pool Repair Work November 25, 2024 1 Increasing Safe Access to Water • Is Mission Critical for PARD • How we do it • Recruitment & Training • Maintenance • Program Enrollment 2 Barton Spring Pool Brief History • Grouping of four Springs, 4th largest in Texas and used by Indigenous people for thousands of years • 1928 – Approval and work on the dam • 1930 – Sidewalks and retaining walls • 1947 – Bathhouse opens • 1969 – Recommendation of bypass • 1975 – Bypass tunnel built • 1997 - Salamander Protection • 1998 – SPLASH opened 3 Flooding • You can't tell the story of Austin without talking about flooding, and Barton Springs is no exception. • Over the years, major flooding events have occurred frequently, often threatening existing infrastructure and requiring repairs. • These recurring floods not only cause immediate damage but can also affect the long-term stability and integrity of our infrastructure. 4 Damage Discovered August 29, 2024 • During routine maintenance and cleaning, a small hole was discovered in the aging infrastructure, causing suction and creating potential entrapment conditions. • Pool entrapment is a life-threatening hazard where a person or object can become stuck in the suction of a pool, most commonly a drain. • For public safety, Barton Springs Pool was immediately closed and PARD began working with Watershed Protection to develop a repair plan. 5 Damages on August 31, 2024 • Within two days, the small holes had merged into one larger hole as the suction continued to erode the aging infrastructure. • Efforts to patch the hole and safely reopen the pool using past methods were unsuccessful. • Numerous unforeseen complications made this repair process more challenging than anticipated. 6 Identified Challenges & Solutions Salamander Protection Water levels and damage location Limited access inside the pool Materials used for repair Reopen as soon as possible 8 9 Getting to Work Under the management of Watershed Protection, the contractor began mobilization on September 13 and completed the work by September 14. A concrete plug was installed in the pipe from Dog Beach up through the dam, providing a long-term solution that effectively eliminates the risk of recurrence. Barton Springs remained closed for a few additional days to allow the concrete to fully cure. During that time, PARD also took the opportunity to re-sod areas of the south side …
City of Austin PARD Easements IH-35 CapEx Central – AW Relocations City of Austin Adewale Odufuye, P.E. Stacey Gould, P.E. November 25, 2024 AGENDA • Overall Project Summary • Waterline (WL) Easements North and South of Lady Bird Lake • Wastewater Line (WWL) Easement North of Lady Bird Lake • Summary of Requested Easements 2 OVERALL PROJECT SUMMARY • The objective of this project is to ensure Austin Water customers have a reliable water system that is both accessible and maintainable in the future as part of the overall IH-35 Capital Express Central improvements. • Proposed Water and Wastewater within PARD Easements →245 LF of 24” WL along East Avenue east of IH-35 →335 LF of 24” WL along East Avenue west of IH-35 →375 LF of 24” WL with the Norwood Dog Park →245 LF of 48” WWL with parkland to the north of Nash Hernandez 3 LBL WATERLINE CROSSING • There is not an existing waterline crossing of LBL along IH-35 • The TxDOT LBL project is providing AW the opportunity to install a 24” WL attached to the proposed west pedestrian bridge to provide better system resiliency. The addition of the 24” lake crossing requires connecting to the existing water line on either side of the bridge. 4 PROPOSED LBL 24” WL CROSSING Existing Proposed 5 EXISTING WATER SYSTEM 24” WL Crossing • Primarily 1953 and 1954 installation • 6” – 24” diameter →Size limitations →Does not meet current Utility Criteria Manual standards • 24” crossing provides water from the west to the east 6 PROPOSED IH-35 EXPANSION • Removal of 24” WL crossings →Existing WL elevation 456 →Proposed main lane elevation = 435 7 WL ALIGNMENT OPTION – CESAR CHAVEZ ST CROSSING • Due to the depressed main lanes proposed by the IH-35 expansion, a proposed 24” WL crossing near Cesar Chavez St would be approximately 70 feet deep →Construction challenges – particularly adequate workspace →Expensive construction methodology →Difficult to access for future maintenance and repairs →Does not provide connection to 24” WL crossing Lady Bird Lake without extension to East Avenue 8 WL ALIGNMENT CROSSING ALTERNATIVES SOUTH OF LAMBIE ST • Lambie Street →The proposed wastewater tunnel crossing will follow this alignment and will not allow for a 24” WL • Clermont Ave Crossing →Construction challenges and highway closures • Difficult to access for future maintenance and repairs • Does not provide connection to 24” …
M E M O R A N D U M O F U N D E R S T A N D I N G FDU #: 3920 2207 6642, 4570 2307 6843; Project I.D.: 3212.162 Angela Means Interim Director, Parks and Recreation Department Shay Ralls Roalson P.E. M.O.U. # PARD 24-006 Director, Austin Water Department TO: FROM: SUBJECT: AW TxDOT IH-35 CapEx -Relocations DATE: Austin Water is allowed to use the parkland located at Norwood Tract at Town Lake Metro Park, Edward Rendon Sr. Park at Festival Beach, and Waller Beach at Town Lake Metro Park as part of the work site for the above referenced project, as indicated in Attachment “B” (Location Map). The parkland is to be used for relocation of water and wastewater lines that are in conflict with the TxDOT IH-35 Capital Express Central project. The requested area(s) are: Parkland Waller Beach Metro Park Edward Rendon Sr. Metro Park Norwood Tract Metro Park TCAD Value per Square Foot $460 $200 $200 Area Required for Temporary Use (Square Feet) 7,767 3,746 4,592 16,105 Duration (days) Area Required for Permanent Use (Square Feet) Temporary Use Calculated Fee1 Permanent Use Calculated Fee2 396 396 572 6,135 6,462 5,239 17,836 $589,911 $988,398 $123,618 $452,340 $218,885 $932,414 $366,729 $1,807,468 Total: $2,739,882 [1] Includes 15% rate of return for temporary uses [2] Includes adjustment for 35% construction disturbance value based on limitations on future development of parkland. Total Mitigation Fees to be transferred to PARD: $2,739,882 The estimated Project Start Date is October 2025 The estimated duration of the parkland use is 968 Calendar Days. Both Waller Beach Metro Park and Edward Rendon Sr. Metro Park durations will be concurrent. Estimated Date of Final Completion (Restoration complete and accepted by Environmental Inspector and PARD; Parkland open for Public Use) is October 2030. 1 of 2 Extension/modification of parkland use must receive prior written approval from PARD. Additional fees will be assessed at the same daily rate as indicated in Attachment A (mitigation worksheet). Austin Water is in agreement to provide the following mitigation in return for use of the parkland: Funds Transfer in the amount of $2,739,882 to be paid within 30 Calendar Days after execution of this Memorandum of Understanding. Austin Water Point of Contact is: Mueen Chowdhury, P.E. Phone Number: 972-0209 Capital Delivery Services Point of Contact is: Adewale Odufuye, P.E. Phone Number: 974-7119 PARD Point of Contact is: …
ATTACHMENT "A" - MOU MITIGATION FEES CALCULATION WORKSHEET - SUMMARY Project: TxDOT IH 35 Central WL Relocation MOU # 24-006 Properties Waller Beach Prop ID 188025 Festival Beach Prop ID 188233 Norwood Tract Prop ID 283008 TCAD Value per Square Foot $460.31 $200.00 $200.00 Area Required for Temporary Use (Square Feet) 7,767 3,746 4,592 Preliminary Annual Value or Requested Area 16,105 Adjusted Annual Value Monthly Value Duration (days) Daily Temporary Use Rate $3,575,219 $749,200 $918,399 $536,283 $112,380 $137,760 $44,690 $9,365 $11,480 396 396 572 $1,490 $312 $383 Temporary Use Calculated Fee1 $589,911 $123,618 $218,885 $932,414
LOCATION MAP Y P X C E A P O M CESAR CHAVEZ. IH 5 3 - L A D Y B I R D L A K E PROJECT LOCATION R I V E R S I D E D R B E N W HIT E B O U L E V A R D COA GRID: J18, J19, J20, J21, J22 LOCATION MAP MAPSCO: MAP 615B, 615F, 615K, 615P, 615S, 615T, 615W, 645A, 645E N.T.S. PROJECT LOCATION
Williamson Creek Interceptor Parks and Recreation Board Steven Vargas, PE Austin Water Monday, November 25, 2024 Project Overview The Williamson Creek Wastewater Interceptor project consists of over 18,800 linear feet of 72-inch diameter gravity wastewater interceptor installed using a two-pass tunneling method. Project drivers: • increase capacity • replace aging infrastructure • reduce the potential for future sanitary sewer overflows to protect the environment 2 Challenges with the Current Interceptor Size, age, and condition of the existing pipelines make the system susceptible to sewer overflows, particularly during rain events No existing odor control along interceptor 3 Major Project Components Excavation of 18,800 LF of tunnel, ranging from 20 to 90 ft below grade, entirely outside of the Erosion Hazard Zone Installation of 18,600 LF of 72-inch and 200 LF of 84-inch corrosion resistant fiberglass pipe with grouted annulus 6 Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Shafts 10 connection shafts to allow for connections of the existing collection system to the tunnel 1 downstream connection shaft on the existing 84-inch Williamson Creek Tunnel near the intersection of William Cannon Dr & S Pleasant Valley Rd 4 5 Additional Project Components Installation of 22 local pipeline reconnections via open cut (5,400 LF of 8” to 48”) and jack and bore (2,500 LF of 12” to 54”) construction methods Removal and abandonment of existing wastewater pipelines and manholes in the creek New biological odor control facility and associated rain gardens designed for future trailhead parking lot Cured-in-Place (CIPP) pipeline rehabilitation of 2,700 LF of existing 36” diameter concrete pipe Extensive environmental site restoration (native seeding, tree plantings, etc.) 6 Routing Requirements 18 different alignments evaluated via scoring matrix 22 environmental constraints considered 7 ROUTING REQUIREMENTS 8 Creek Restoration – WPD Partner Project received Environmental Commission approval on September 18, 2024 Exposed manholes and encased pipe in creek to be abandoned and removed Locations individually evaluated for least environmental impact and most creek stabilization 9 Odor Control and Trailhead Access – PARD Partner Odor control facility to reduce odors Oversized rain gardens for future trailhead parking and access Concrete paved access instead of gravel 10 Expanding Greenbelt and Trails Access – PARD Partner 3 acres of acquired properties necessary for temporary workspace areas, to be transferred to PARD after construction is completed. PARD …
S. 1st St - S. Congress (Package 3) Wasson Rd - Battle Bend (Package 1) IH-35 (Package 4) Stassney- Wagon Bend (Package 2) M E M O R A N D U M O F U N D E R S T A N D I N G M.O.U. # PARD 24-005 Angela Means Interim Director, Parks and Recreation Department Shay Ralls Roalson, P.E. Director, Austin Water TO: FROM: SUBJECT: Williamson Creek Wastewater Interceptor DATE: Austin Water is allowed to use the parkland located in the Williamson Creek Central and East Greenbelts, as part of the work site for the above referenced project, as indicated in Attachment “B” (Location Map). Project I.D.: 6943.031 Parkland TCAD Value per Square Foot Area Required for Temporary Use (Sq Ft) Duration (days)1 Area Required for Permanent Use (Sq Ft) Area Required for Permanent Use Access (Sq Ft) Area Required for Permanent Subterranean Use (Sq Ft) Temporary Use Calculated Fee2 Area Required for Permanent Use Access (Sq Ft)3 Subterranean Mitigation5 Permanent Use Calculated Fee4 $16 241,594 70-244 N/A 1,899 8,101 $345,615 $30,949 N/A $13,203 $35 5,014 104 11,882 N/A 87,901 $7,700 N/A $147,391 $311,536 $14 10,692 503-538 53,169 N/A 54,226 $33,240 N/A $265,261 $77,295 $17 131,425 69-538 74,141 8,758 106,985 $293,487 $146,859 $435,133 $179,398 388,725 139,192 10,657 257,213 $680,042 [1] Reference to specific duration days & daily temporary use rates per package, refer to duration tabs on Attachment A [2] Includes 15% rate of return for temporary uses [3] Includes adjustment for 100% substantial construction disturbance value based on limitations on future development for that portion of parkland (see tab for Disturbance Value Table) [4] Includes adjustment for 35% construction disturbance value based on limitations on future development for that portion of parkland (see tab for Disturbance Value Table) [5] Includes 10% construction disturbance for subterranean permanent use $177,808 $847,785 $581,432 Total: $2,287,068 Mitigation amount for use of parkland = $2,287,068 1 of 2 Phone Number: 512-972-0074 The estimated Project Start Date is April 2026. Estimated Date of Final Completion (Restoration complete and accepted by Environmental Inspector and PARD is December 2030. The mitigation fee will be paid within 30 calendar days following the execution of this Memorandum of Understanding. Extension/modification of parkland use must receive prior written approval from PARD. Additional fees will be assessed at the same daily rate as indicated in Attachment A (mitigation worksheet). Austin Water Point of Contact: Kane Wei …
ATTACHMENT "A" - MOU MITIGATION FEES CALCULATION WORKSHEET - SUMMARY Project: Williamson Creek Interceptor MOU # 24-005 Parkland TCAD Value per Square Foot Area Required for Temporary Use (Square Feet) Area Required for Permanent Use (Square Feet) Area Required for Permanent Use Access (Square Feet) Area Required for Permanent Subterranean Use (Square Feet) Temporary Use Calculated Fee2 Area Required for Permanent Use Access (Square Feet)3 Permanent Use Calculated Fee4 Subterranean Mitigation5 S. 1st Street - S. Congress (Package 3) Wasson Rd - Battle Bend (Package 1) IH-35 (Package 4) Stassney-Wagon Bend (Package 2) $16 $35 $14 $17 N/A 11,882 53,169 74,141 139,192 1,899 N/A N/A 8,758 10,657 8,101 87,901 54,226 106,985 257,213 $345,615 $7,700 $33,240 $293,487 $680,042 $30,949 N/A N/A $146,859 $177,808 N/A $147,391 $265,261 $435,133 $847,785 Total: $13,203 $311,536 $77,295 $179,398 $581,432 $2,287,068 Duration (days)1 70-244 104 503-538 69-538 241,594 5,014 10,692 131,425 388,725 [1] Reference to specific duration days & daily temporary use rates per package, refer to duration tabs below [2] Includes 15% rate of return for temporary uses [3] Includes adjustment for 100% substantial construction disturbance value based on limitations on future development for that portion of parkland (see tab for Disturbance Value Table) [4] Includes adjustment for 35% construction disturbance value based on limitations on future development for that portion of parkland (see tab for Disturbance Value Table) [5] Includes 10% construction disturbance for subterranean permanent use
WILLIAMSON CREEK Wastewater Interceptor Project 71 PHILCO DR GOLIAD LN L P L E T S A P WILLIA WILLIA M M S S O O N N C C R R E E E E K K NGRESS AVE NGRESS AVE UTH CO UTH CO R D N A B R U B U S SO SO MANCHESTER CIR EMERALD WOOD DR UTH FIRST ST UTH FIRST ST SO SO HEARTWOOD DR THISTLEWOOD DR O O D D R H E A R T W WOOD BINE DR R D T R A E H N E E R G R D D O O W E G D E H R A M BLE LN OCKINGBIRD LN WEST RE D BIR D LN WASSON RD C R E E K LIN E D R HARVEST CIR HUMMING BIRD LN BLUE BIRD LN M CIPP WORKSPACE TAM TILBURY LN WORTH AVE WESTMORLAND DR SUBURBAN DR HIA RD LA B FORT DRUM DR A D ASTLE R OLD C FORT CLARK DR S U S S F O R T M A S O N D R E X D R WILLIAMSO WILLIAMSO BATTLE BEND BLVD N N C C R R EEK EEK N CREEK WILLIAMSO R COLONIAL PARK BLVD SEX D R LN WEIDEM A S U S E E V V S A S A S S E E R R G G N N O O H C H C T T U U O O S S WILLIAM CANNON DR EAST STASS EAST STASS LITTLE TEXAS LN N N EY LN EY LN PIPE INSTALLATION IN ROADWAY (6" – 12" PIPES) N H L RIC EID R F CIANA DR N PO L E M O C O N E S T O G A T R L N D R JACARANDA DR W A G O N C R O S SIN G P A T H W A G O N B E N D D O V E S P R I N G S D R H PL NELEIG BENDRIDGE TRL STO BRANCH D DR O O W LA KEH U RST D R ROCKRIDGE DR SNEED COVE NELMS DR BLUFF SPRINGS RD WILLIAM CANNON DR COMMODORE CIR EASTRIDGE TER EAST STASSNEY LN EAST STASSNEY LN D O V E H IL L D R WIL WIL LIA LIA M M …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: (20241125-004): Recommendation to Ensure Full Compliance with the Austin Police Oversight Act and Prioritize Transparency, Accountability, and Efficiency in the Austin Police Department WHEREAS, the voters of Austin overwhelmingly approved the Austin Police Oversight Act (APOA), signaling a strong mandate for transparency, accountability, and oversight in the operations of the Austin Police Department (APD); WHEREAS, the APOA explicitly requires police contracts to comply fully with its provisions, including access to the ‘G-files ’and ensuring the integrity of independent police oversight investigations; WHEREAS, recent negotiations and the subsequent five-year, $218 million police contract with the Austin Police Association (APA) have raised significant concerns among community advocates, elected officials, and stakeholders regarding the potential undermining of voter-approved oversight measures; WHEREAS, community members and organizations have expressed concerns that vague or conflicting language in the contract could leave open avenues to reintroduce the so-called "G-file," thus limiting transparency and accountability in addressing police misconduct; WHEREAS, the APD faces over 300 vacancies, and the significant financial commitment of the new contract—featuring a 28% pay increase over five years—must be matched by measurable improvements in officer retention, response times, and overall humane conduct; WHEREAS, the City of Austin's budgetary priorities, including critical social services such as housing, homelessness support, mental health programs, and public safety beyond policing, must be balanced to reflect the values and needs of all Austinites; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Human Rights Commission of the City of Austin recommends the following: 1. Ensure Full Compliance with the Austin Police Oversight Act in all negotiations with APD: The City of Austin must guarantee that all provisions of the APOA, including the protection of independent oversight authority, are strictly adhered to in current and future police contracts. Any ambiguities in contract language must be resolved in favor of transparency and accountability. 2. • • • 3. 4. 5. Establish Clear Metrics for Accountability and Efficiency: The significant increase in APD funding must result in tangible improvements, including but not limited to: Reducing officer vacancy rates and improving recruitment and retention. Demonstrating measurable improvements in response times across all districts. Ensuring humane, community-oriented policing practices that respect human rights and build trust. Conduct Regular Oversight and Public Reporting: The City must establish a framework for quarterly public reporting on APD's progress toward meeting the APOA's mandates and contract performance metrics. This reporting should include data …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: (20241125-004): Recommendation to Ensure Full Compliance with the Austin Police Oversight Act and Prioritize Transparency, Accountability, and Efficiency in the Austin Police Department WHEREAS, the voters of Austin overwhelmingly approved the Austin Police Oversight Act (APOA), signaling a strong mandate for transparency, accountability, and oversight in the operations of the Austin Police Department (APD); WHEREAS, the APOA explicitly requires police contracts to comply fully with its provisions, including access to the ‘G-files ’and ensuring the integrity of independent police oversight investigations; WHEREAS, recent negotiations and the subsequent five-year, $218 million police contract with the Austin Police Association (APA) have raised significant concerns among community advocates, elected officials, and stakeholders regarding the potential undermining of voter-approved oversight measures; WHEREAS, community members and organizations have expressed concerns that vague or conflicting language in the contract could leave open avenues to reintroduce the so-called "G-file," thus limiting transparency and accountability in addressing police misconduct; WHEREAS, the APD faces over 300 vacancies, and the significant financial commitment of the new contract—featuring a 28% pay increase over five years—must be matched by measurable improvements in officer retention, response times, and overall humane conduct; WHEREAS, the City of Austin's budgetary priorities, including critical social services such as housing, homelessness support, mental health programs, and public safety beyond policing, must be balanced to reflect the values and needs of all Austinites; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Human Rights Commission of the City of Austin recommends the following: 1. Ensure Full Compliance with the Austin Police Oversight Act in all negotiations with APD: The City of Austin must guarantee that all provisions of the APOA, including the protection of independent oversight authority, are strictly adhered to in current and future police contracts. Any ambiguities in contract language must be resolved in favor of transparency and accountability. 2. • • • 3. 4. 5. Establish Clear Metrics for Accountability and Efficiency: The significant increase in APD funding must result in tangible improvements, including but not limited to: Reducing officer vacancy rates and improving recruitment and retention. Demonstrating measurable improvements in response times across all districts. Ensuring humane, community-oriented policing practices that respect human rights and build trust. Conduct Regular Oversight and Public Reporting: The City must establish a framework for quarterly public reporting on APD's progress toward meeting the APOA's mandates and contract performance metrics. This reporting should include data …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20241125-7 Date: November 25, 2024 Subject: IH-35 CapEx Central LBL AW Ch. 26 Motioned By: Kathryn Flowers Seconded By: Cathleen Eady Recommendation The Parks and Recreation Board recommends Austin City Council to approve 17,836 sq. ft. of permanent water and wastewater use and 16,105 sq. ft. of temporary use, not to exceed a total of 396 calendar days on parkland located at Edward Rendon Sr. Metro Park at Festival Beach, and Waller Beach at Town Lake Metro Park and 572 calendar days at Norwood Tract at Town Lake Metro Park. Total Mitigation to be paid by Austin Water is $2,739,882. Vote The motion to recommend to Austin City Council to approve 17,836 sq. ft. of permanent water and wastewater use and 16,105 sq. ft. of temporary use, not to exceed a total of 396 calendar days on parkland located at Edward Rendon Sr. Metro Park at Festival Beach, and Waller Beach at Town Lake Metro Park and 572 calendar days at Norwood Tract at Town Lake Metro Park. Total Mitigation to be paid by Austin Water is $2,739,882 was approved on Vice Chair Flowers’ motion, Board Member Eady’s second on an 6-0 vote with one vacancy. Board Member Reed abstaining. Board Member Franklin recusing. Board Members Villalobos and Orme absent. For: Kathryn Flowers, Stephanie Bazan, Lane Becker, Cathleen Eady, Nicole Merritt, Kim Taylor. Against: None. Abstain: Holly Reed. Recuse: Jennifer Franklin. Absent: Pedro Villalobos and Shelby Orme. Attest: Tim Dombeck, Board and Council Liaison, Parks and Recreation Department.
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20241125-8 November 25, 2024 Williamson Creek Interceptor Date: Subject: Motioned By: Kathryn Flowers Recommendation The Parks and Recreation Board recommends Austin City Council approve Permanent Wastewater Use (9.3 acres) and Temporary Use (8.9 acres), for a period not to exceed a total of 1,735 Calendar Days on parkland located at Williamson Creek Central and East Greenbelts. The total mitigation value for the use of parkland to be paid by Austin Water has been calculated at $2,287,068. Vote Seconded By: Jennifer Franklin The motion to recommend Austin City Council approve Permanent Wastewater Use (9.3 acres) and Temporary Use (8.9 acres), for a period not to exceed a total of 1,735 Calendar Days on parkland located at Williamson Creek Central and East Greenbelts. The total mitigation value for the use of parkland to be paid by Austin Water has been calculated at $2,287,068 was approved on Vice Chair Flowers’ motion, Board Member Franklin’s second on a 8-0 vote with one vacancy. Board Members Villalobos and Orme absent. Kathryn Flowers, Stephanie Bazan, Lane Becker, Cathleen Eady, Jennifer Franklin, Nicole Merritt, Holly Reed, Kim Taylor. For: Against: None. Abstain: None. Absent: Pedro Villalobos, Shelby Orme. Attest: Tim Dombeck, Board and Council Liaison, Parks and Recreation Department. 1 of 1
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2024 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on November 25, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon, Chair Gabriella Zeidan, Vice Chair Morgan Davis Mariana Krueger Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Danielle Bryant Jeffrey Clemmons Srini Raghavan Alicia Weigel Commissioners Absent: Meebs Aslam Harriet Kirsh Pozen PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on October 28, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of October 28, 2024, were approved on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Clemmons’ second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Bryant and Davis were off the dais. Commissioners Aslam and Kirsh Pozen were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1 1. Presentation by Anti-Defamation League Austin on Hate, Extremism, and Antisemitism in Central Texas. The presentation was made by Courtney Toretto, Director of Policy, Central Division, Anti-Defamation League, and Dr. Kazique Prince, Board Member, Anti-Defamation League Austin. Discussion of opportunities for the Human Rights Commission to support District 3 Council office educational initiatives. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve a recommendation to Council to ensure full compliance with the Austin Police Oversight Act and prioritize transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the Austin Police Department. Recommendation Number 20241125-004 to ensure full compliance with the Austin Police Oversight Act and prioritize transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the Austin Police Department was approved on Commissioner Clemmons’ motion, Commissioner Bryant’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Aslam and Kirsh Pozen were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Commissioner Clemmons and Chair Duhon requested an item to form a working group on facilitating conversations and community dialogue. ADJOURNMENT Chair Duhon adjourned the meeting at 7:17 p.m. without objection. The minutes were approved at the December 16, 2024, meeting on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Vice Chair Zeidan’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Clemmons and Weigel were off the dais. Commissioners Bryant and Kirsh Pozen were absent. 2. 3. 2
