BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Joint Inclusion Committee Recommendation Number: 20240326-034: Enhanced Climate Resilience in Austin WHEREAS, the Joint Inclusion Committee recognizes that access to clean air, water, and a stable climate is a fundamental human right, and Austin is experiencing increasingly severe climate impacts. In 2024, the city recorded the highest number of 100°F+ days in its history. WHEREAS, these extreme weather events, including destructive flooding, prolonged drought, and dangerous heat waves, affect disproportionately vulnerable communities. Austin's most vulnerable populations are largely concentrated on the east side, a result of early 20th-century segregation policies and the legacy of discriminatory practices. These communities are more likely to experience adverse outcomes due to socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, and age, making them more susceptible to climate-related disasters. WHEREAS, Austin has committed to climate neutrality by 2040 through the Austin Climate Equity Plan, yet current funding levels are insufficient to meet this goal, and environmental injustice—the disproportionate exposure of marginalized communities, particularly low-income communities and communities of color, to environmental hazards, along with their systemic exclusion from environmental decision-making—further exacerbates these challenges; and the 2023 Annual Highlights report from the Office of Sustainability notes that the city surpassed $1 million in funds provided to Austin-area schools through the Bright Green Future Grants program, supporting 555 projects since 2012; however, more substantial investments are needed to accelerate progress toward climate neutrality. WHEREAS, Austin Energy's transition to renewable energy currently stands at 43% of its energy portfolio, falling short of the interim goal of 65% renewable energy by 2025. The 2020 generation plan indicates an aim to achieve 375 MW of local solar by the end of 2030, with 200 MW targeted for customer-sited installations. To meet these targets, increased investment in renewable energy infrastructure is essential. WHEREAS, extreme weather events have exposed vulnerabilities in Austin's infrastructure. The Central Texas Extreme Weather and Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment highlights that future climate scenarios predict increased heavy rain events and severe droughts, potentially shifting Austin's climate to resemble the arid Southwest. This underscores the urgent need for investments in climate resilience and energy independence. WHEREAS, rising temperatures and extended heat waves pose significant public health risks. Data indicates that 32.3% of residents reported five or more poor mental health days in 2021, up from 17% in 2011, highlighting the mental health challenges exacerbated by climate stressors. The National Weather Service reports that Austin has been warming at a rate of …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Joint Inclusion Committee Recommendation Number: 20250326-035: Increased Emergency Housing Assistance WHEREAS, the City of Austin is facing a housing affordability crisis as data reports show that the overall median rent is now $1,995.00, with the median rent for a one bedroom at $1,387.00 which is 6.4% more expensive than the national average. WHEREAS, even though median rent has fallen in the past year, rental prices are still unsustainable; especially given that the cost of living for Austinites has continued to increase due to national trends such as soaring healthcare costs, grocery bills, and child and dependent care. WHEREAS, Eviction filings in Austin JP Courts reached a record high of 13,210 filings in a single year in 2024, an increase of 26% from 2023, and the State Legislature is currently advancing a bill to weaken what little rights tenants already possess in the state of Texas. WHEREAS, per the Eviction Lab at Princeton University, eviction filings in Austin have soared to over 50% higher than the pre-pandemic average rate, with communities of color drastically more at risk of eviction in a state with some of the country’s weakest protections for renters. WHEREAS, a record 2.1 million renters, more than half of the state’s renter households, are “cost burdened,” meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on rent and utilities per a recent Harvard University study. WHEREAS, the State of Texas shuttered its statewide rent relief program in the summer of 2023 leaving it up to municipalities to act on the growing rental crisis. Austin has stepped up to the plate, most recently in last year’s budget cycle with a $8 million rental assistance and eviction support program through the City of Austin Housing Department’s “I Belong in Austin” program. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Joint Inclusion Committee encourages the Austin City Council to allocate at least another $8 million dollars in rental relief funds and explore all available means in order to create short, medium, and long term solutions for individuals at risk of eviction in Austin. Date of Approval: March 26th, 2025 Record of the vote: Recommendation was approved on Jerry Joe Benson's 1st, Melissa Ortega's 2nd, on a 10-0 vote (Commissioner Elaina Fowler off the dais). Attest: ___________________________________________ Alejandra Mireles, Staff Liaison
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Joint Inclusion Committee Recommendation Number: (20250326-036): Community Dialogues in the City of Austin WHEREAS, the City Charter outlines that the Austin Human Rights Commission shall “initiate and facilitate discussions and negotiations between individuals and groups to lessen tensions and improve understanding in the community”; and, WHEREAS, the City Charter also outlines that the Austin Human Rights Commission shall, “institute and conduct educational programs to promote equal treatment, opportunity and understanding”; and, WHEREAS, the City Charter further outlines that the Austin Human Rights Commission shall “sponsor meetings, institutes, forums, and courses of instruction to lead to a clearer understanding and solution of human relations problems”; and, WHEREAS, pursuant to the City Charter, the Human Rights Commission formed a working group, the Intergroup Relations Working Group, for these purposes on January 27, 2025; and, WHEREAS, the working group shall propose that a series of up to 8 community dialogue sessions which will provide training, resources, and opportunities to bridge divides around topics related to immigration- based and other kinds of discrimination; and, WHEREAS, these dialogues have the potential to incur costs related to venue, travel, supplies, snacks, printing, and other preparatory materials. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Joint Inclusion Committee encourages the Austin City Council to allocate $7,500 from the FY25 budget to aid in hosting up to 8 community dialogue sessions that promote greater understanding among members of our community who face discrimination related to immigration and other marginalized identities, to be administered by the Office of Equity and Inclusion. Attest: Date of Approval: Record of the vote: 10-0, Motion Commissioner Afifi, Second Commissioner Sin Commissioner Bondi, Vice Chair March 26, 2025
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Joint Inclusion Committee Recommendation Number: 20260326-037: Providing Funding for Printing and Distribution of "Know Your Rights" Red Cards at Austin Public Library Sites WHEREAS, the City Charter outlines that the Austin Human Rights Commission shall “initiate and facilitate discussions and negotiations between individuals and groups to lessen tensions and improve understanding in the community”; and, WHEREAS, the City Charter also outlines that the Austin Human Rights Commission shall “institute and conduct educational programs to promote equal treatment, opportunity and understanding”; and, WHEREAS, public libraries serve as trusted and accessible community spaces where residents can receive critical information about their rights, particularly those related to immigration, law enforcement interactions, and workplace protections; and, WHEREAS, organizations such as the Immigrant Legal Resource Center and other advocacy groups have developed "Know Your Rights" red cards to help individuals understand their constitutional rights in various situations, including interactions with law enforcement and immigration officials; and, WHEREAS, ensuring that all Austin Public Library locations have printed "Know Your Rights" red cards available in multiple languages will empower community members with important legal information and contribute to greater public awareness and safety; and, WHEREAS, the costs associated with printing and distributing these materials include design, translation, printing, and distribution across all Austin Public Library branches. NOW,THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Joint Inclusion Committee encourages the Austin City Council to allocate $25,000 from the FY25 budget to the Austin Public Library for the printing and distribution of "Know Your Rights" red cards at all library locations, ensuring that critical legal information is accessible to all community members. Page 1 of 2 Date of Approval: Record of the vote: 10-0, Motion Commissioner Ortega, Second Commissioner Chang Attest: Commissioner Bondi, Vice Chair Page 2 of 2 March 26, 2025
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Joint Inclusion Committee Recommendation Number: 20260326-038: Proposal for Improving the Accuracy and Effectiveness of the Austin Point-In-Time (PIT) Count WHEREAS, The annual PIT Count is a critical tool for assessing the scale of homelessness in Austin and securing federal funding, yet it has long been criticized for undercounting due to methodological challenges, volunteer limitations, and the transitory nature of homelessness. WHEREAS, Unhoused individuals in non-sheltered locations—such as encampments, wooded areas, and vehicles—are often missed, leading to inaccurate data that impacts funding and resource distribution. WHEREAS, The COVID-19 pandemic, housing crisis, and economic instability have increased the number of people experiencing homelessness, making accurate data collection more essential than ever. WHEREAS, Community organizations, advocacy groups, and policy leaders have called for more precise, real-time data collection efforts to better understand the causes, demographics, and needs of Austin’s unhoused population. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Joint Inclusion Committee of the City of Austin recommends the City Council allocate $750,000 in funding to improve the methodology, accuracy, and impact of the PIT Count through the following initiatives: 1. Enhanced Technology and Real-Time Data Collection – $250,000 a. Develop and deploy a mobile app for PIT Count volunteers to capture real-time data, geotag encampment locations, and ensure accuracy. b. Expand the use of AI and machine learning in collaboration with local universities and tech partners to predict trends in homelessness and improve counting methods. c. Fund heatmaps and GIS tools to better identify high-density areas and track displacement patterns throughout the year. 2. Expanded Volunteer Training and Outreach – $200,000 a. Provide stipends to train outreach teams and ensure PIT Count volunteers are well-prepared to engage with unhoused individuals. b. Expand collaboration with lived experience consultants (unhoused/formerly unhoused individuals) to refine data collection approaches and improve survey c. effectiveness. Increase partnerships with community-based organizations, such as Mobile Loaves & Fishes and ECHO Austin, to ensure better outreach and participation. 3. Incentives for Participation and Data Accuracy – $150,000. Date of Approval: Record of the vote: 11-0, Motion Commissioner Benson, Second Commissioner McIllwain Attest: Commissioner Bondi, Vice Chair March 26, 2025 a. Implement a small compensation program (e.g., gift cards, meals, or basic supplies) for unhoused individuals who participate in the survey to encourage honest responses. b. Provide funding for follow-up surveys throughout the year, ensuring a more continuous and accurate count rather than a one-time snapshot. 4. Specialized Focus on Uncounted …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Joint Inclusion Committee Recommendation Number: 20260326-039: Proposal for Supporting Supplies to Enhance Immigrant Student Protections and Rights WHEREAS, Recent tragic events, such as the suicide of Jocelynn Rojo-Carranza, an 11-year- old girl who faced bullying due to her family’s immigration status, highlight the severe and devastating impacts of immigration-related discrimination and the lack of adequate protections within schools; and, WHEREAS, Reports from immigrant families in Austin indicate that increased raids and threats of deportation have created a climate of fear, deterring families from seeking assistance, accessing education, or reporting incidents of violence or harassment for fear of being separated; and, WHEREAS, Immigrants in Austin, including students, face systemic challenges, including bullying, harassment, and an overall lack of understanding about their rights and protections; and, WHEREAS, The City of Austin has a responsibility to ensure that all residents, irrespective of immigration status, have access to the resources and support they need to thrive and that our schools provide a safe environment where all children can learn without fear of discrimination or retaliation; and, WHEREAS, Inaccurate and inaccessible information about immigration laws and rights continues to be a barrier for many immigrants and their families, exacerbating their vulnerability, contributing to mistrust of local institutions, and threatening their constitutional due process rights. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Joint Inclusion Committee of the City of Austin recommends that the City Council allocate $500,000 in funding to support supplies and materials necessary for the implementation of immigrant student protections, rights education, and family support services. This funding will ensure: 1. Printing and Distribution of Know Your Rights Materials - $150,000 Page 1 of 3 a. Production of multilingual Know Your Rights guides tailored for students, families, and educators. b. Distribution of materials across all public schools, libraries, and community centers across the city in coordination with Austin ISD (including Red Know Your Rights cards and Texas Immigration Law Council From Scared to Prepared one- pagers). c. Development of digital and print resources for easy access through the City of Austin website and social media channels. 2. Development of Educational Toolkits for Schools - $120,000 a. Creation of classroom toolkits that include lesson plans, training materials, and engagement resources on immigration rights and protections in partnership with Austin ISD. b. Partnership with local organizations to provide instructional materials for educators to integrate immigration awareness into school curricula. c. Training sessions for school staff …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Joint Inclusion Committee Recommendation Number: 20260326-040: High School to Technical/Trade School to City Workforce Pipeline Program WHEREAS, The City of Austin has implemented programs like the Austin Youth Development (AYD) Program, which provides youth development services focusing on personal development and employability skills for youth aged 17-22, including educational and developmental activities within a year-long City work experience; and, WHEREAS, The Economic Development Department’s Workforce Development Program manages multiple, multiyear service delivery contracts with local nonprofit organizations to provide free or low-cost workforce training to individuals pursuing self-sustaining employment; and, WHEREAS, The Austin Chamber of Commerce supports funding for student success and programs that enhance workforce training, including a high school internship program with Austin ISD; and, WHEREAS, This initiative directly supports the mission of the Austin Human Rights Commission by promoting equal employment opportunities and reducing systemic barriers to workforce access for historically marginalized communities; and, WHEREAS, Despite these initiatives, there remains a need for a structured pipeline that directly connects high school students to technical/trade schools and subsequently to employment within City of Austin departments, addressing both workforce needs and providing clear career paths for students; and, WHEREAS, Other cities have successfully implemented similar programs. For instance: ● Philadelphia introduced a program that gives job priority to students in trade schools, leading to successful hires within city departments. ● New Orleans established the New Orleans Career Center (NOCC), offering career and technical education to high school students, providing training and certifications in fields such as building trades, culinary arts, digital media, and healthcare. ● Chicago’s City Colleges launched the College to Careers program, partnering with industry leaders to align curricula with workforce needs, effectively creating a Page 1 of 3 pipeline from education to employment in high-demand sectors. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: The Joint Inclusion Committee recommends that the City Council allocate $2.5 million to establish a High School to Technical/Trade School to City Workforce Pipeline Program to: 1. Create Paid Apprenticeships & Pre-Apprenticeship Programs – $1,000,000 a. Establish paid internships and apprenticeships within city departments for high school juniors and seniors interested in skilled trades. b. Provide summer pre-apprenticeship programs for students exploring public works, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, cybersecurity, transportation, emergency services, and other high-demand fields. c. Offer stipends and tuition assistance for students enrolling in trade schools and certification programs at Austin Community College and local technical institutions. 2. Expand Dual Credit & …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION March 25, 2025, 6:00 P.M. City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room #1101 301 West 2nd St Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Christi Vitela, 512- 974-2792, christi.vitela@austintexas.gov. Lyssette Galvan Kevin Jackson Jr Brian Peña Jesús Perales CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Ivanna Neri, Chair Daniela Silva, Vice Chair Amanda Afifi Dulce Castañeda 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 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on February 25, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion of the undocumented immigrant policy at the Austin Police Department. Presentation by Stephanie Gonzales, Equity and Inclusion Coordinator, Austin Police Department, and Fausto Rodriguez, Executive Lieutenant, Austin Police Department. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATION 3. Report of recommendations from the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget Working Group. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM 4. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget. 5. Approve a primary representative to the Joint Inclusion Committee. 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 City Clerk’s Department, at 512-974-2792, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission please contact Christi Vitela at 512-974-2792 or christi.vitela@austintexas.gov.
Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission February 25, 2025 HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, February 25, 2025 The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Silva called the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:11 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Daniela Silva, Vice Chair Melissa Ruiz Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Amanda Afifi Dulce Castañeda Lyssette Galvan Jesus Perales PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on January 28, 2024. The minutes from the meeting on January 28, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Perales’ motion, Commissioner Galvan’s second on a 6-0 vote. Chair Neri, Commissioners Jackson and Peña were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding immigrant affairs by Rocío Villalobos, Immigrant Affairs Manager and DACA Liaison Officer, Equity and Inclusion Office. The presentation was made by Rocío Villalobos, Immigrant Affairs Manager and DACA Liaison Officer, Equity and Inclusion Office. 1 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS February 25, 2025 3. Approve the formation of a Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget Working Group to research and write budget recommendations. The motion to approve a Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget Working Group to research and write budget recommendations was approved on Commissioner Perales’ motion, Commissioner Galvan’s second on a 6-0 vote. Chair Neri, Commissioners Jackson and Peña were absent. Vice Chair Silva, Commissioners Afifi and Galvan were added to the Working Group without objection. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Presentation by American Gateways regarding their work in the Austin community providing legal services to the low income and immigrant communities. The presentation was made by Rebecca Lightsey, Co-Executive Director, American Gateways. 5. Presentation by the Community Investment Budget Coalition on their priorities for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. The presentation was made by Kathy Mitchell, Community Investment Budget Coalition. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Austin Police Department – Immigration Enforcement - March Two Budget Recommendations -March - Family Stabilization Grant and Immigrant Legal Services Director of Equity and Inclusion Office - April Emergency Language Plan – CPIO - April Boy Scouts - April Know Your Rights Presentation- May – Workers Defense Vice Chair Silva adjourned the meeting at 7:01 p.m. without objection. 2
REGULAR MEETING OF THE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION March 25, 2025 6:00 p.m. Austin Energy Headquarters; 1st Floor; Shudde Fath Conference Room 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, Texas 78723 Some members of the Resource Management 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 Natasha Goodwin, at Natasha.Goodwin@austinenergy.com or 512-322-6505. AGENDA Raphael Schwartz Alison Silverstein Vacant GeNell Gary Joseph Gerland Martin Luecke Dino Sasaridis Members: Louis Stone, Chair Paul Robbins, Vice Chair Charlotte Davis Trey Farmer 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 Resource Management Commission Meeting on February 18, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion of the sub-quorum meeting with AE staff regarding information request and future plans for District Cooling. 3. Presentation by Texas Gas Service regarding a quarterly update of the Central Texas Energy Efficiency Program by Christy Bell, Energy Efficiency Program Supervisor. 4. Discussion on natural gas utilities in Austin. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Recommend changes to Austin Energy’s Residential Rooftop Solar Program, with inclusion of energy storage batteries. 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 Natasha Goodwin at Austin Energy, at (512) 322-6505 or email Natasha.Goodwin@austinenergy.com for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Resource Management Commission, please contact Natasha Goodwin at Austin Energy, at 512-322-6505 or email Natasha.Goodwin@austinenergy.com .
Central Texas Energy Efficiency Program Overview Christy Bell – Supervisor, EE Programs Texas Gas Service Energy Efficiency Program Q4 2024 Program Highlights Program sunset on December 31, 2024, Conservation Adjustment Clause tariffs were withdrawn, program surcharge removed from bills, and TGS will continue processing residential rebate requests through June 29, 2025 for work completed in 2024 Revisions made to TGS website to create awareness about program changes After June 29, 2025, TGS will begin work determining a balance adjustment to return unused funds back to customers 2 Energy Efficiency Program 3 Energy Efficiency Program Commercial Direct Install Rebates: Administered by Sink Aerators Low-Flow Showerheads Pre-Rinse Spray Valves Weather Stripping Steam Traps Dryer Smart Devices Overhead Door Weather Stripping 4 Texas Gas Service Energy Efficiency Program Commercial Program Highlights 5 Texas Gas Service Energy Efficiency Program Outreach Campaigns Austin Board of Realtors Print ad ran 10/1-10/31 Community Impact Ads Print ad ran 10/1-10/31 Digital ad ran 11/4-11/8 KUT/KUTX Radio Ads Radio campaign ran 10/1-12/9 6 Energy Efficiency Program Education & Outreach Events Dia de los Muertos - Nov. 1st Mueller Farmers Market - Oct. 20th & Nov. 3rd Community Connections Resource Fair - Oct. 26th Texas Book Festival booth shared with Austin Energy - Nov. 16th & 17th 7 Questions?
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Resource Management Commission Resolution on Changes to Residential Rooftop Solar Rebate Program WHEREAS, streamlining Austin Energy’s Residential Solar program will reduce customers’ and installers’ cost and time necessary for solar and battery installation while reducing administrative overhead for Austin Energy (AE); and WHEREAS, given the reasonably expected large increase in AE load growth in the next few years, aggressively increasing energy efficiency measures, distributed energy resources, solar installations, and onsite energy-storage batteries are critical means to achieve the Austin Energy Resource Generation and Climate Protection Plan and advance local resilience; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Resource Management Commission makes the following recommendations to the Austin City Council to modify AE’s rooftop solar program. 1. Streamlining Administration a. AE shall eliminate the solar education course and quiz, replacing it with a digital information flyer and engaging <5-minute video integrated into the solar and battery installation application process that contains the most useful information, such as an explanation of Value of Solar, how much yearly energy production to expect per panel, explanation of kW vs kWh, and other basic information. b. AE shall not condition rebate approval upon the customer’s current electricity usage. AE should require the contractor to provide values for expected usage and production to the customer. AE may warn the applying customer if proposed arrays exceed a certain percentage of the customer’s present electricity usage, to help the customer understand that they may be buying more solar and/or battery equipment than they may need. c. AE shall not place additional requirements on the installation or parts used other than those required by NFPA 70 National Electrical Code 2023. Exceptions: AE may require new components be purchased for the installation, and this requirement does not extend to the software configuration of said parts, I.e. export limits or grid operator control settings. 2. Consumer Protection a. AE shall specify a minimum set of 10-year warranty provisions (they must identify exactly what is included in the warranty) that every installer must offer to be eligible for the rebate list. Installers can offer other provisions beyond that minimum set. This is a consumer protection requirement which intends to eliminate the possibility of a security-blanket warranty, which may have loop-holes in the warranty. b. AE shall provide up-to-date interactive reference solar benchmark cost estimates for a few house types and roof scenarios to give customers a valid point of comparison …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Resource Management Commission Resolution on Changes to Residential Rooftop Solar Rebate Program WHEREAS, streamlining Austin Energy’s Residential Solar program will reduce customers’ and installers’ cost and time necessary for solar and battery installation while reducing administrative overhead for Austin Energy (AE); and WHEREAS, given the reasonably expected large increase in AE load growth in the next few years, aggressively increasing energy efficiency measures, distributed energy resources, solar installations, and onsite energy-storage batteries are critical means to achieve the Austin Energy Resource Generation and Climate Protection Plan and advance local resilience; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Resource Management Commission makes the following recommendations to the Austin City Council to modify AE’s rooftop solar program and initiate a battery incentive program.. 1. Streamlining Administration a. AE shall eliminate the solar education course and quiz, replacing it with a digital information flyer and materialengaging <5-minute video integrated into the solar and battery installation application process that contains the most useful information, such as an explanation of Value of Solar, how much yearly energy production to expect per panel, explanation of kW vs kWh, and other basic information. b. B. AE shall not condition rebate approval upon the customer’s current electricity usage. AE should require the contractor to provide values for expected usage and production to the customer. AE may warn the applying customer if proposed arrays exceed a certain percentage of the customer’s present electricity usage, to help the customer understand that they may be buying more solar and/or battery equipment than they may need,. 1. A. c. C. AE shall not place additional requirements on the installation or parts used other than those coveredrequired by normal inspectionNFPA 70 National Electrical Code 2023. Exceptions: AE may require new components be purchased for the installation, and this requirement does not extend to the software configuration of said parts, I.e. export limits or grid operator control settings. 2. 2. Consumer Protection A. a. AE shall specify a minimum set of 10-year warranty provisions (they must identify exactly what is included in the warranty) that every contractorinstaller must offer to be eligible for the rebate list. Installers can offer other provisions beyond that minimum set. This is a consumer protection requirement which intends to eliminate the possibility of a security-blanket warranty, which may have loop-holes in the warranty. b. B. AE shall provide up-to-date interactive reference solar and battery benchmark cost estimates …
CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Joseph Bowie (Vela); Robert Thornton-V Chair (Alter, R); VACANT (Kelly), Kyle Smith (Siegel), Bobbi Joe Foster (Ellis) Bill Harris(Duchen), Robert Butler(Watson), Stephen Cox (Madison) SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MECHANICAL AND PLUMBING BOARD Tuesday March 25, 2025 @ 9:30 AM- WEB/EX/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 Joseph Cooper(Fuentes), Ramon Perez(Velasquez), David Nichols (Qadri) 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- 1. Approve the Minutes from Regular Called Meeting from July 23, 2024 DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Resolution 20241212-133, the consolidation of the Mechanical and Plumbing Board to Building Life safety commission. 3. Uniform Plumbing and Mechanical code adoption timeline DISCUSSION and ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve 2025 annual meeting schedule for Mechanical and Plumbing Board. 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. For more information of the Mechanical and Plumbing Board, please contact Rick Arzola at 512-974-2417
REGULAR MEETING of the PLANNING COMMISSION TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 2025, 6:00 PM AUSTIN CITY HALL, COUNCIL CHAMBERS, ROOM 1001 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Planning 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. Registration no later than 2 PM the day of the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. For more information on public comment, please see the agenda section “Speaker Registration.” Please contact Ella Garcia, Staff Liaison, for questions regarding speaker registration at LandUseLiaison@austintexas.gov or by phone at 512-978-0821. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Claire Hempel, Chair (District 8) Awais Azhar, Vice Chair (Mayor’s Representative) Ryan Johnson (Holdover, District 7) Greg Anderson, Secretary (District 4) Alice Woods, Parliamentarian (District 2) Patrick Howard (District 1) Nadia Barrera-Ramirez (District 3) Felicity Maxwell (District 5) Danielle Skidmore (District 9) Vacant (District 10) Anna Lan (Mayor’s Representative) Casey Haney (Mayor’s Representative) Imad Ahmed (District 6) EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS: Jessica Cohen, Chair of Board of Adjustment Candace Hunter, AISD Board of Trustees TC Broadnax, City Manager Richard Mendoza – Director of Transportation and Public Works EXECUTIVE SESSION (No public discussion) The Planning Commission will announce it will go into Executive Session, if necessary, according to Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, to receive advice from Legal Counsel on matters specifically listed on the agenda. The Commission may not conduct a closed meeting without the approval of the city attorney. Private Consultation with Attorney – Section 551.071. Staff Liaison: Ella Garcia, 512-978-0821 Attorney: AJ Urteaga, 512-974-2386 CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first four 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 Planning Commission regular meeting on Tuesday, March 11, 2025. PUBLIC HEARINGS 2. Plan Amendment: NPA-2024-0018.01 - 7003, 7005, 7007 Guadalupe Street Rezone; Location: District 4 7003, 7005, 7007 Guadalupe Street, Waller Creek Watershed; Brentwood/Highland Combined (Highland) Neighborhood Planning Area Owner/Applicant: Purple Square One Limited Liability (Lan Chen) Agent: Request: Perales Land Development, LLC (Jerome Perales, P.E.) High Density Single Family and Multifamily Residential to Mixed Use land use Applicant indefinite postponement request Maureen Meredith, 512-974-2695, maureen.meredith@austintexas.gov …
************************************************************************ MEMORANDUM TO: Claire Hempel, Chair Planning Commission Members FROM: Marcelle Boudreaux Maureen Meredith Planning Department DATE: March 20, 2025 RE: C14-2024-0036 – 7003, 7005 & 7007 Guadalupe St NPA-2024-0018.01 – 7003, 7005 & 7007 Guadalupe St Indefinite Postponement Request by Applicant ************************************************************************ The Applicant requests an indefinite postponement of the above referenced rezoning case. A Zoning Transportation Analysis (ZTA) is required. As information, per LDC 25-2-246 (A) (2) (Expiration of Application), a rezoning application will expire if it is not scheduled for a public hearing before the 181st day after the date on which the land use commission grants an indefinite postponement of a scheduled public hearing. Renotification of the rezoning case will be required in order to reschedule the public hearing. Attachments: Applicant Correspondence Zoning Map Plan Amendment Map 02 and 03 NPA-2024-0018.01 and C14-2024-0036 - 7003, 7005, 7007 Guadalupe Street Rezone; District 41 of 5 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Julia Perales-Leisk Boudreaux, Marcelle; Meredith, Maureen RE: TDW24-209360 | 7003, 7005, 7007 Guadalupe St Rezone Project | Zoning - TIA DW Review Tuesday, March 4, 2025 2:16:53 PM image001.png image002.png image003.png External Email - Exercise Caution Hello Marcelle and Maureen, We would like to request an indefinite postponement of our NPA and zoning applications for 7003, 7005, 7007 Guadalupe St from the March 25th Planning Commission meeting. We appreciate your help with this. Please let us know if you need anything else. Thank you. From: Julia Perales-Leisk <julia.leisk@bowman.com> Sent: Friday, February 28, 2025 2:35 PM To: Boudreaux, Marcelle <Marcelle.Boudreaux@austintexas.gov> Cc: Meredith, Maureen <Maureen.Meredith@austintexas.gov> Subject: RE: TDW24-209360 | 7003, 7005, 7007 Guadalupe St Rezone Project | Zoning - TIA DW Review JULIA PERALES-LEISK Planning & Development Manager | BOWMAN O: (512) 327-2308 julia.leisk@bowman.com Thank you, Marcelle. JULIA PERALES-LEISK Planning & Development Manager | BOWMAN O: (512) 327-2308 julia.leisk@bowman.com From: Boudreaux, Marcelle <Marcelle.Boudreaux@austintexas.gov> Sent: Friday, February 28, 2025 2:27 PM To: Julia Perales-Leisk <julia.leisk@bowman.com> Cc: Meredith, Maureen <Maureen.Meredith@austintexas.gov> Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: TDW24-209360 | 7003, 7005, 7007 Guadalupe St Rezone Project | Zoning - TIA DW Review Thanks for the update! Let me circle back early part of next week with next steps. -Marcelle Marcelle Boudreaux Planner Senior 02 and 03 NPA-2024-0018.01 and C14-2024-0036 - 7003, 7005, 7007 Guadalupe Street Rezone; District 42 of 5 Planning Department 512-974-8094 marcelle.boudreaux@austintexas.gov Please note: Email correspondence to and from the City of Austin is subject to required disclosure under the Texas Public Information …
MEMORANDUM TO: Planning Commission Members FROM: Jonathan Tomko, Principal Planner Planning Department DATE: March 20, 2025 SUBJECT: C14-2025-0030 - 1201 East 11th Street (District 1) and UPR for East 11th and 12th Street Urban Renewal Area Modification #13 (District 1) - Staff Request for Postponement of both Items The cases above have been scheduled for a public hearing during the March 25, 2025, Planning Commission Meeting. Staff requests a postponement of the above-referenced rezoning case, and the associated Plan Amendment Case (East 11th the April 22 , 2025 and 12th Street Urban Renewal Area Modification #13) Planning Commission Meeting, so staff has the opportunity to conduct additional due diligence before developing a staff recommendation. to This postponement request was made in a timely manner and meets the Planning Commission's policy. xc: Joi Harden, Zoning Officer 04 and 05 URP for East 11th and 12th Street Urban Renewal Area Modification #13 and 05 C14-2025-0030 - 1201 East 11th Street; District 11 of 1
NEIGHBORHOOD PLAN AMENDMENT REVIEW SHEET NEIGHORHOOD PLAN: North Austin Civic Association (NACA) Neighborhood Plan CASE#: NPA-2025-0007.01 DATE FILED: January 24, 2025 PROJECT NAME: NPAs for the North Lamar Transit Center Station Area Vision Plan ADDRESS/ES: See the attached list and map of specified properties PC DATE: March 25, 2025 DISTRICT AREA: District 4 SITE AREA: 77 acres AGENT: N/A OWNER/APPLICANT: Applicant: City of Austin Planning Department CASE MANAGER: Tim McCarthy PHONE: 512-974-8092 STAFF EMAIL: Tim.McCarthy@austintexas.gov TYPE OF AMENDMENT: Change in Future Land Use Designation From: North Austin Civic Association (NACA) Neighborhood Plan FLUM To: Remove from North Austin Civic Association (NACA) Neighborhood Plan FLUM NEIGHBORHOOD PLAN ADOPTION DATE: June 29, 2000 CITY COUNCIL DATE: April 24, 2025 ACTION: PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION: TBD March 25, 2025 (action pending) STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Recommend removing the specified properties from the North Austin Civic Association (NACA) Neighborhood Plan FLUM. 06 NPA-2025-0007.01 - Neighborhood Plan Amendment; District 41 of 8 BASIS FOR STAFF’S RECOMMENDATION: As a companion to the possible adoption of the NLTC Station Area Vision Plan, the City is proposing this application to amend the North Austin Civic Association (NACA) Neighborhood Plan to remove the existing FLUM designation from the specified properties proposed to be covered by the NLTC Station Area Vision Plan FLUM. PROPOSED LAND USE: The proposed removal of the FLUM designations from the North Austin Civic Association (NACA) Neighborhood Plan results in the specified properties not having a FLUM designation in the North Austin Civic Association (NACA) Neighborhood Plan. For the new proposed FLUM and specified property FLUM designations please refer to the North Lamar Transit Center (SCTC) Station Area Vision Plan: https://www.speakupaustin.org/ETODstationareas Yes Yes ETOD Typologies ETOD Typology Map: Located within a ½-mile of an ETOD Typology Station Area(s) located throughout the Project Connect System. Name of Station Area: North Lamar Transit Center. ETOD Typology: Enhance protection for low-income households and communities of color while ensuring affordability through sensitive development. Is the proposal consistent with ETOD Typology principles? Yes. 2 Number of Yeses BACKGROUND: Following City Council acceptance of the ETOD Policy Plan in March of 2023, a planning process was kicked off to support Equitable Transit-Oriented Development (ETOD) in the NLTC Station Area. This process involved three rounds of community engagement that informed the draft NLTC Station Area Vision Plan detailing the community’s vision for future development in this area. This Vision Plan, which is currently available for public …
NEIGHBORHOOD PLAN AMENDMENT REVIEW SHEET NEIGHORHOOD PLAN: Crestview/Wooten Combined Neighborhood Plan (Wooten NP) CASE#: NPA-2025-0017.01 DATE FILED: January 24, 2025 PROJECT NAME: NPAs for the North Lamar Transit Center Station Area Vision Plan ADDRESS/ES: See the attached list and map of specified properties PC DATE: March 25, 2025 DISTRICT AREA: District 4 SITE AREA: 26 acres AGENT: N/A OWNER/APPLICANT: Applicant: City of Austin Planning Department CASE MANAGER: Tim McCarthy PHONE: 512-974-8092 STAFF EMAIL: Tim.McCarthy@austintexas.gov TYPE OF AMENDMENT: Change in Future Land Use Designation From: Crestview-Wooten Combined Neighborhood Plan FLUM To: Remove from Crestview-Wooten Combined Neighborhood Plan FLUM NEIGHBORHOOD PLAN ADOPTION DATE: April 1, 2004 CITY COUNCIL DATE: April 24, 2025 ACTION: PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION: TBD March 25, 2025 (action pending) STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Recommend removing the specified properties from the Crestview/Wooten Combined Neighborhood Plan FLUM. 07 NPA-2025-0017.01 - Neighborhood Plan Amendment; District 71 of 8 BASIS FOR STAFF’S RECOMMENDATION: As a companion to the possible adoption of the NLTC Station Area Vision Plan, the City is proposing this application to amend the Crestview/Wooten Combined Neighborhood Plan to remove the existing FLUM designation from the specified properties proposed to be covered by the NLTC Station Area Vision Plan FLUM. PROPOSED LAND USE: The proposed removal of the FLUM designations from the Crestview/Wooten Combined Neighborhood Plan results in the specified properties not having a FLUM designation in the Crestview/Wooten Combined Neighborhood Plan. For the new proposed FLUM and specified property FLUM designations please refer to the North Lamar Transit Center (SCTC) Station Area Vision Plan: https://www.speakupaustin.org/ETODstationareas ETOD Typologies Yes Yes 2 ETOD Typology Map: Located within a ½-mile of an ETOD Typology Station Area(s) located throughout the Project Connect System. Name of Station Area: North Lamar Transit Center ETOD Typology: Enhance protection for low-income households and communities of color while ensuring affordability through sensitive development. Is the proposal consistent with ETOD Typology principles? Yes. Number of Yeses BACKGROUND: Following City Council acceptance of the ETOD Policy Plan in March of 2023, a planning process was kicked off to support Equitable Transit-Oriented Development (ETOD) in the NLTC Station Area. This process involved three rounds of community engagement that informed the draft NLTC Station Area Vision Plan detailing the community’s vision for future development in this area. This Vision Plan, which is currently available for public review, includes a proposed Future Land Use Map (FLUM) that intersects with the Crestview/Wooten Combined Neighborhood Plan FLUM. These …
