January 21, 2025 JOINT SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING MEETING MINUTES The Joint Sustainability Committee convened in a hybrid meeting via videoconferencing and at Austin Energy Headquarters. Board Members in Attendance in Person: Kaiba White, Craig Nazor, Marissa Bell, Chris Maxwell-Gaines, Anna Scott, Christopher Campbell Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Charlotte Davis, Diana Wheeler, Heather Houser, Haris Qureshi, Rodrigo Leal, Alberta Phillips Board Members Absent: City Staff in Attendance: Rohan Lilauwala, Emily King CALL TO ORDER Chair Kaiba White called the meeting to order at 6:10 pm. 1. Approval of minutes from the December 18th, 2024 meeting of the Joint Sustainability Committee. • Scott motion, Maxwell-Gaines second, passes on a 10-0 vote (Leal, Phillips off dais). DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion of Joint Sustainability Committee membership, expiring terms, and replacement members. • Members to check with clerk’s office to check if they are rolling off or not. • Some members rolling off because of term limits, particularly Mayoral appointments. • Members to check in with alternates (if applicable) 3. Discussion of potential Joint Sustainability Committee Recommendations for the FY26 City Budget. • Natural Systems o Working on 4-5 recommendations. o Recommendations put forth last year that didn’t get adopted but still worthwhile o Items being discussed in the climate equity plan implementation o Converting impervious cover to functional green – audit of city owned land o Land acquisition, in eastern watersheds o Citywide green infrastructure vision, implementation strategy o Green workforce o Wildfire prevention o Tree canopy survey/assessment using LIDAR • Consumption o Looked at previous recommendations from 2024 and 2023. In 2023, 100% adoption. In 2024, near zero adoption. o Looking at reinstating the climate ambassador program o Citywide sustainable purchasing o Low carbon concrete o Food plan implementation o Zero waste and circular restaurant materials o Electric landscape equipment • Transportation still working • Buildings o Outreach/engagement for sustainability incentives o Refrigerants – reducing leaks, switching to different refrigerants o Air sealing task force o Water leak detection and landscape conversions o Sustainable construction procurement coordinator o ACCC support 4. Update from Electric Utility Commission on Solar Programs – Kaiba White • Update on solar standard offer, allows building owners to lease roof space to solar developers. First stakeholder meeting scheduled for expansion of program on Jan 29. • Solar for All moving slower because interlocal agreement with Harris County needed to be completed. 5. Update from Austin Travis County …
Regular Meeting of the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at 3:00 P.M. CST Boards and Commission Room #1101, 301 W. Second Street, Austin, TX 78701 and some members may be attending via 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 Alejandra Mireles (Equity and Inclusion Program Coordinator, Equity Office) at (512) 974-8045 or alejandra.mireles@austintexas.gov. CURRENT JIC MEMBER COMMISSIONS & REPRESENTATIVES: Member Commission: African American Resource Advisory Commission Asian American Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission Commission for Women Primary Representative: Elaina Fowler Alternate Representative: VACANT Sonny Sin Nayer Sikder Julie Glasser Richard Bondi (Vice-Chair) Teresa Ferguson Miriam Dorantes Melissa Ortega Diana Melendez Commission on Aging Commission on Immigrant Affairs Commission on Veterans Affairs Philip Reichert Alice Navarro Early Childhood Council Amanda Afifi (Chair) Hispanic/Latino Quality-of-Life Resource Advisory Commission Human Rights Commission LGBTQ+ Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Morgan Davis Jerry Joe Benson Jennifer Powell Curtis Wyman Andrea McIllwain Daniela Silva Muneeb "Meebs" Aslam Katie Coyne Lisa Chang 1 PURPOSE OF THE JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE: City Code § 2-1-204 mandates The Committee shall: 1) advise the council on issues pertaining to equity, diversity, and inclusion; and 2) promote close cooperation between the council, City management, City boards, commissions, committees, and taskforces, and individuals, institutions, and agencies to increase and sustain equity, diversity, and inclusion in the city. AGENDA CALL TO ORDER: PUBLIC COMMUNICATION 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 JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE’s SPECIAL CALLED MEETING on DECEMBER 18, 2024. Briefing from David Gray, Officer of the Homeless Strategy Office and Mandy DeMayo, Department Director of Housing and Planning updates on their offices and departments fiscal year 2024-2025 budget as they are relate to City programs and services for housing and residents experiencing homelessness. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion on the shared website listing FY26 budget recommendations for the Joint Inclusion Committee’s Member Commissions’ Budget Workgroups. …
JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES The JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) convened a special meeting on WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18th, 2024, at 3:00 P.M. CST in the PERMITTING & DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM #1401/1402 (6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Austin, TX 78752) Chair AMANDA AFIFI called the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE meeting to order at 3:09 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission: Amanda Afifi (Chair) Commission on Veterans Affairs: Curtis Wyman African American Resource Advisory Commission: Elaina Fowler Commission on Aging: Vice-Chair Richard Bondi Commission on Immigrant Affairs: Melissa Ortega Early Childhood Council: Eliza Gordon Human Rights Commission: Morgan Davis LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Advisory Commission: Jerry Joe Benson Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities: Jennifer Powell & Lisa Chang Commissioners Absent: Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission: Sonny Sin or Nayer Sikder Commission for Women: Diana Melendez or Julie Glasser PURPOSE OF THE JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE: City Code § 2-1-204 mandates The Committee shall: 1) advise the council on issues pertaining to equity, diversity, and inclusion; and 2) promote close cooperation between the council, City management, City boards, commissions, committees, and taskforces, and individuals, institutions, and agencies to increase and sustain equity, diversity, and inclusion in the city. 1 PUBLIC COMMUNICATION 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. None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE’s SPECIAL CALLED MEETING on OCTOBER 23RD, 2024. The minutes were approved at the December 18th Special Called meeting on COMMISSIONER RICHARD BONDI’S motion, COMMISSIONER JENNIFER POWELL’S second, on a 7-0 vote (Off the dais: Commissioners Elaina Fowler from the African American Resource Advisory Commission and Morgan Davis from the Human Rights Commission. Absent: Commissioners Sonny Sin and Nayer Sikder from the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission and Julie Glasser and Diana Melendez from the Commission for Women.) STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Briefing on updates and opportunities for the City’s Open Government Partnership. (Ana DeFrates, Research Program Lead, Office of Innovation; Amanda Jasso, Equity and Inclusion Program Manager) Ana DeFrates serves as the Innovation Research Program Lead with the Office of Innovation where she helps facilitate the work of the Open Government Partnership (OGP) in collaboration with City departments and community members. Ana DeFrates shares …
JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) convened a regular meeting on WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22, 2025, at 3:00 P.M. CST in the BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM #1101 (301 W. Second Street, Austin, Texas 78701) Chair AMANDA AFIFI called the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE meeting to order at 3:02 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Commission on Aging: Richard Bondi (Vice-Chair) African American Resource Advisory Commission: Elaina Fowler Asian American Quality of Life Commission: Nayer Sikder Commission on Immigrant Affairs: Melissa Ortega Commission on Veterans Affairs: Curtis Wyman Commission for Women: Diana Melendez Early Childhood Council: Andrea McIllwain Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission: Amanda Afifi (Chair) Human Rights Commission: Morgan Davis LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Commission: Jerry Joe Benson Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities: Jennifer Powell & Lisa Chang PURPOSE OF THE JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE: City Code § 2-1-204 mandates The Committee shall: 1) advise the council on issues pertaining to equity, diversity, and inclusion; and 2) promote close cooperation between the council, City management, City boards, commissions, committees, and taskforces, and individuals, institutions, and agencies to increase and sustain equity, diversity, and inclusion in the city. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION 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. Sarah Lass, Immigrant Hall of Honor National Museum shares a video to introduce the nonprofit. Scott Johnson, requesting funds for utility assistance. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1 1. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Approve the minutes of the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE’s SPECIAL CALLED MEETING on DECEMBER 18, 2024. The minutes for the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE’s DECEMBER 18TH, 2024 SPECIAL CALLED MEETING were approved at the JANUARY 22nd 2025 REGULAR MEETING on COMMISSIONER JERRY JOE BENSON’s motion, COMMISSIONER ELAINA FOWLER’s second, on a 9-0 vote (Off the dais: Human Rights Commission’s Commissioner Morgan Davis). Briefing from David Gray, Officer of the Homeless Strategy Office and Mandy DeMayo, Department Director of Housing and Planning updates on their offices and departments fiscal year 2024-2025 budget as they relate to City programs and services for housing and residents experiencing homelessness. Mandy DeMayo shares the source of funds from the City’s FY25 Budget equal $96.3M. She also shares that Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH)’s Site-Based PSH comes from Capital, Wrap Around Services, and Rental Subsidy. Currently there are 480 …
1. REGULAR CALLED MEETING of the ETHICS REVIEW COMMISSION JANUARY 22, 2025 at 6:00 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM, #1101 301 W 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Ethics Review Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public Speakers: Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. If participating remotely by telephone, a speaker must register no later than noon the day before the meeting. To register to speak remotely, contact Lizette Benitez at (512) 974-2915 or lizette.benitez@austintexas.gov. Adam Materne Luis Figueroa Secretary Nguyen Stanton-Adams William Ross Pumfrey Brittany Sharkey Amy Casto CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Edward Espinoza Brian McGiverin Chair Michael Lovins Vice-Chair Haksoon Andrea Low Mary Kahle CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA There is no limit on the number of speakers who may speak on agenda items. There is a limit on the number of speakers who may speak on items not posted on the agenda—only the first ten speakers who register prior to the meeting being called to order will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address non-agenda items. For more information on public communication, please see the “Notice Regarding Public Communication” at the end of this agenda. EXECUTIVE SESSION The Ethics Review Commission may announce it will go into Executive Session pursuant to Chapter 551.071 of the Texas Government Code to receive advice from legal counsel on any matter listed in this agenda. 1 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. The Ethics Review Commission may announce it will go into Executive Session pursuant to Chapter 551.071 of the Texas Government Code to receive advice from legal counsel to discuss: A complaint filed by Marc Duchen against Ashika Ganguly raising claimed violations of City Code Chapter 2-7 (Ethics & Financial Disclosure), Section 2-7-74 (Financial Disclosure by Candidates). The Ethics Review Commission may announce it will go into Executive Session pursuant to Chapter 551.071 of the Texas Government Code to receive advice from legal counsel to discuss: A complaint filed by Mackenzie Kelly against Krista Laine raising claimed violations of City Code Chapter 2-7 (Ethics & Financial Disclosure), Section 2-7-74 (Financial Disclosure by Candidates). The Ethics Review Commission may announce it will go into Executive Session pursuant to Chapter …
1. REGULAR CALLED MEETING of the ETHICS REVIEW COMMISSION JANUARY 22, 2025 at 6:00 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM, #1101 301 W 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Ethics Review Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public Speakers: Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. If participating remotely by telephone, a speaker must register no later than noon the day before the meeting. To register to speak remotely, contact Lizette Benitez at (512) 974-2915 or lizette.benitez@austintexas.gov. Adam Materne Luis Figueroa Secretary Nguyen Stanton-Adams William Ross Pumfrey Brittany Sharkey Amy Casto CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Edward Espinoza Brian McGiverin Chair Michael Lovins Vice-Chair Haksoon Andrea Low Mary Kahle CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL REVISED AGENDA There is no limit on the number of speakers who may speak on agenda items. There is a limit on the number of speakers who may speak on items not posted on the agenda—only the first ten speakers who register prior to the meeting being called to order will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address non-agenda items. For more information on public communication, please see the “Notice Regarding Public Communication” at the end of this agenda. EXECUTIVE SESSION The Ethics Review Commission may announce it will go into Executive Session pursuant to Chapter 551.071 of the Texas Government Code to receive advice from legal counsel on any matter listed in this agenda. 1 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. The Ethics Review Commission may announce it will go into Executive Session pursuant to Chapter 551.071 of the Texas Government Code to receive advice from legal counsel to discuss: A complaint filed by Marc Duchen against Ashika Ganguly raising claimed violations of City Code Chapter 2-7 (Ethics & Financial Disclosure), Section 2-7-74 (Financial Disclosure by Candidates). The Ethics Review Commission may announce it will go into Executive Session pursuant to Chapter 551.071 of the Texas Government Code to receive advice from legal counsel to discuss: A complaint filed by Mackenzie Kelly against Krista Laine raising claimed violations of City Code Chapter 2-7 (Ethics & Financial Disclosure), Section 2-7-74 (Financial Disclosure by Candidates). The Ethics Review Commission may announce it will go into Executive Session pursuant to …
ETHICS REVIEW COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 22, 2025 The Ethics Review Commission convened in a regularly scheduled Commission meeting on January 22, 2025, at Austin City Hall, B&C Room #1101, at 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas and via Videoconference. Vice-Chair Low called the Ethics Review Commission meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance In-Person: Vice-Chair Haksoon Andrea Low, Secretary Nguyen Stanton-Adams, and Commissioners Amy Casto, Edward Espinoza, Luis Figueroa, Mary Kahle, Adam Materne, Brian McGiverin, Ross Pumfrey and Brittany Sharkey were present at Austin Energy Headquarters. Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: None. Commissioners Absent: Chair Michael Lovins. City Staff in Attendance in Person: Caroline Webster, Commission Executive Liaison & Assistant City Attorney; and Lizette Benitez, Staff Liaison. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Three people signed up to speak during general communication: Leland Bickers signed up to speak on Items 6 and 7; Elaine Li signed up to speak on Item 7; and Jeb Boyt signed up to speak on Item 8. EXECUTIVE SESSION 1. 2. The Ethics Review Commission may announce it will go into Executive Session pursuant to Chapter 551.071 of the Texas Government Code to receive advice from legal counsel and discuss any matter listed in this agenda. The Ethics Review Commission may announce it will go into Executive Session pursuant to Chapter 551.071 of the Texas Government Code to receive advice from legal counsel to discuss: A complaint filed by Marc Duchen against Ashika Ganguly raising claimed violations of City Code Chapter 2-7 (Ethics & Financial Disclosure), Section 2-7-74 (Financial Disclosure by Candidates). 3. The Ethics Review Commission may announce it will go into Executive Session pursuant to Chapter 551.071 of the Texas Government Code to receive advice from legal counsel to 1 discuss: A complaint filed by Mackenzie Kelly against Krista Laine raising claimed violations of City Code Chapter 2-7 (Ethics & Financial Disclosure), Section 2-7-74 (Financial Disclosure by Candidates). 4. The Ethics Review Commission may announce it will go into Executive Session pursuant to Chapter 551.071 of the Texas Government Code to receive advice from legal counsel to discuss: a jurisdictional determination regarding the Chair’s initial decision that the Commission lacks jurisdiction over a complaint filed on December 9, 2024, by Jeb Boyt against Gary Bledsoe, which alleges violations of Chapters 392 and 393 of the Texas Transportation Code, Texas Penal Code Section 39.02, and “Section 4” of the Austin City Charter. …
REGULAR MEETING of the BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive, Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Building and Standards Commission may be participating via videoconference. The meeting may also be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live. 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 by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Melanie Alley at 512-974-2679 or melanie.alley@austintexas.gov. AGENDA The Building and Standards Commission (“Commission”) may go into a closed session under Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code to receive advice from legal counsel or for other reasons permitted by law as specifically listed on this agenda. Further, if necessary, the Commission may go into a closed session as permitted by law regarding any item on this agenda. Building and Standards Commission Members Kurt Lockhart Raisch Tomlanovich Christopher H. Sokol Stephen Truesdell, Fire Marshal (Ex Officio) Edward Selig Timothy Stostad, Chair Blaine Campbell, Vice-Chair Luis Osta Lugo Michael Francis CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1. Approve the minutes of the Building and Standards Commission special called meeting on APPROVAL OF MINUTES November 7, 2024. PUBLIC HEARINGS New Case(s) The Commission will hear the following cases concerning alleged violations of the City’s Property Maintenance Code and may issue an order to vacate, relocate occupants, repair, demolish, or secure the premises; and may assess civil penalties: Page 1 2. Case Number: CL 2024-090872 Property address: 1202 E 51st Street, aka Ridgetop Apartments / Owner: 51st Center LLC Staff presenter: Courtney Britt Staff recommendation: Repair commercial multi-family structure 3. Case Number: CL 2024-137293 Property address: 2301 Coronado Street / Owner: 2301 Webberville LLC Staff presenter: Willis Adams Staff recommendation: Adopt proposed agreed order for repair of residential structure 4. Case Number: CL 2024-136124 Property address: 3413 Southill Circle / Owner: James Allen Shrewsbury Staff presenter: Belinda Nobles Staff recommendation: Repair residential structure. 5. Case Number: CL 2024-139363 Property address: 709 …
BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, January 22, 2025 BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22, 2025 The BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION convened in a REGULAR meeting on 22 January 2025, at the CITY OF AUSTIN PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER (PDC), 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE, ROOM 1405, in Austin, Texas. CHAIR TIMOTHY STOSTAD called the BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION (BSC) Meeting to order at 6:46 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Timothy Stostad, Vice Chair Blaine Campbell, Commissioners: Luis Osta Lugo, Michael Francis, Kurt Lockhart and Raisch Tomlanovich Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Ex Officio Commissioner Chief Stephen Truesdell. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No citizens signed up to speak during Public Communication. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. PUBLIC HEARINGS 2. Approve the minutes of the BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING on November 7, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of November 7, 2024 were approved on VICE CHAIR CAMPBELL’s motion, COMMISSIONER OSTA LUGO’s second, with no objections. Conduct a public hearing and consider case number CL 2024-090872; Property address: 1202 E 51st Street, also known as Ridgetop Apartments. VICE CHAIR CAMPBELL moved to close the public hearing, COMMISSIONER FRANCIS’s second, with no objections. VICE CHAIR CAMPBELL moved to adopt the findings of fact, conclusions of law and adopt City staff’s recommendation for repair of the commercial structures within 45 days, with a civil penalty of $1000 per week beginning on the 46th day from the date the order is mailed and continuing until compliance is achieved, 1 BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, January 22, 2025 COMMISSIONER FRANCIS’s second. The motion carried on a 6-0 vote. COMMISSIONER SELIG and COMMISSIONER SOKOL were absent. Conduct a public hearing and consider case numbers CL 2024-137293; Property address: 2301 Coronado Street. COMMISSIONER FRANCIS moved to close the public hearing, COMMISSIONER LOCKHART’s second, with no objections. VICE CHAIR CAMPBELL moved to adopt the findings of fact, conclusions of law and adopt City staff’s recommendation for demolition within 75 days, and on the 76th day, if compliance is not achieved, authorize the Code Official is to proceed with demolition, COMMISSIONER FRANCIS’ second. The motion carried on a 6-0 vote. COMMISSIONER SELIG and COMMISSIONER SOKOL were absent. Conduct a public hearing and consider case number CL 2024-136124; Property address: 3413 Southill Circle. VICE CHAIR CAMPBELL moved to close the public hearing, COMMISSIONER FRANCIS’s second, with no objections. COMMISSIONER FRANCIS moved to adopt the …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING BUILDING and FIRE BOARD OF APPEALS AGENDA Wednesday January 22, 2025 @ 1:30 Pm- In Person Permitting Development Center; Conference Room 1401-1402 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr Austin, Texas 78752 Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register, contact rick.arzola@austintexas.gov CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Ron Buys(R. Alter); Alan Schumann-Chair(Ellis); Ben Abzug(Velasquez); Aubrey Brasfield-V Chair(Fuentes), Chris Gannon (Pool) Jim Rumbo(Alter), Alison Satt(Madison) Oren Mitzner (Qadri) Paredes-Juarez (Vela) 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. 1. Approve the Minutes from Regular Called Meeting from August 28, 2024 APPROVAL OF MINUTES DISCUSSION and ACTION 2. Conduct a public hearing and consider approving a recommendation for the Wildland Urban 3. Conduct a public hearing and consider approving a recommendation for the International 4. Approve the 2025 Building and Fire Board of Appeals meeting schedule. Interface Code (WUI) Building Code (IBC) 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.
M E M O R A N D U M TO: City Manager Office FROM: Joel G. Baker, Fire Chief DATE: January 17, 2025 SUBJECT: Austin Fire Department Position on 2024 IBC Proposed Single Stair changes The Austin Fire Department (AFD), in collaboration with the Development Services Department (DSD), is working toward adoption of the 2024 International Building Codes (IBC). One high visibility issue has been a local amendment to Code 1006.3.4.2 Single Stair in Certain R-2 Applications (see attached staff Single Stair amendment). The requested City of Austin Staff proposed amendment in response to Council Resolution 20240502-094 limits usage of single staircases in buildings with a maximum of five stories and requires additional fire protection engineering features and limitations to square footage per floor to mitigate risks. There is a proposal for the 2027 edition of International Code that allows a similar allowance of single staircase to a maximum of four stories. AFD supports the proposal from a structural engineering perspective. To support the proposal from an operational perspective AFD would need an additional three/five staffed aerial devices put in service. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standard 101 requires two means of escape. Multiple staircases allow one stairwell for fire attack and a second one for resident escape/evacuation. In single staircase buildings, residents caught above where the fire occurs will need to be protected in place and cannot be evacuated via the stairwell. Once a fire attack has commenced that stairwell will be exposed to dangerous heat and products of combustion. This concern is shared by the International Association of Fire Firefighters and Metro Fire Chiefs Association. Additionally, ground ladders are only able to reach the third floor (current code only allows single staircases in buildings up to three stories), so any external evacuation of higher floors would require aerial apparatus with access to all sides of the building. Additionally, NFPA Standard 1710 sets a response objective for initial full alarm complement to arrive within 8 Minutes for hazards such as residential buildings. AFD has not added an aerial to operation since the mid-1990s. The attached maps show the effects the lack of additional arial trucks have had on response times. Maps 1 & 2 shows how current aerials response times and how they are not meeting AFD’s objective of 8 minute response times for first unit on scene. In order to meet AFD’s target response goal, aerials should …
Affordability Impact Statement 2024 Wildland-Urban Interface Code and local amendments Date: 8/14/2024 Proposed Regulation The adoption of the 2024 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code (WUIC) and its local amendments will replace the 2015 WUIC and its related local regulations. The WUIC is a model code developed by the International Code Council. It establishes requirements for land use and the built environment within designated wildland-urban interface areas using prescriptive and performance provisions. The code is intended to work as a system of its requirements, providing a comprehensive and holistic approach to enhancing building resilience from wildfires. A key update in the 2024 WUIC is the introduction of Proximity Zones. Since 2021, the Austin Fire Department (AFD) has used the term "Proximity Class" and "WUI Class" to determine ignition-resistant construction requirements based on distance from wildland areas. The term "Class" has caused confusion with fire resistance classes, leading to the recommendation of "Proximity Zone" to clarify these designations. Aligning with 2015 WUIC Proximity Class designation, the Proximity Zones are based on the distance of the structure from the wildland: • Zone A: within 50 feet of 40-acre or larger wildland • Zone B: within 150 feet of 40-acre or larger wildland • Zone C within 1.5 miles of 750-acre wildlands and within 0.5 miles of 40-acre wildland In addition to the updated terminology, the 2024 WUIC introduces a 0.5-mile buffer around 40-acre wildlands for Zone C, which expands the WUIC area to include more homes and undeveloped parcels. Additional updates include: • A 5-foot Ember Ignition Zone (EIZ) will now be required around buildings in all Proximity Zones. In Zones A and B, this area should be made of gravel, pavers, or other noncombustible materials. In Zone C, the EIZ can include irrigated and mowed turf grass but no other vegetation. • An increase in the number of buildings a driveway can serve to three buildings, up from two in the 2015 WUIC, including all buildings without dwellings such as accessory uses. • Structures 100 square feet or larger must now comply with the code, reduced from the previous requirement of 120 square feet. • A Fire Hazard Severity Form and potential mitigation will be required for developments under the City of Austin’s HOME initiative, or where a single fire apparatus access road serves more than 30 dwelling units. • New requirements include noncombustible skylight frames and protected skylight glass in all Proximity …
Affordability Impact Statement 2024 International Building Code & Local Amendments Date: 6/25/2024 Proposed Regulation The proposed adoption of the 2024 International Building Code (IBC) and local amendments would replace the current 2021 IBC and corresponding local amendments. The IBC is a model code published by International Code Council, a non-profit entity with a robust democratic process for weighing the costs and benefits of code changes. Most of the changes to the local amendments simplify or streamline code regulation and interpretation. The most impactful local amendments are likely the new requirements for natural light in living spaces and the reduction of required egress stairways in apartment buildings up to five-stories. Land Use/Zoning Impacts on Housing Costs The proposed changes would have a neutral impact on housing costs via land use and zoning. 2024 IBC and local amendments will update Austin’s land development code to reflect the most current standards. Keeping building codes up to date helps to ensure consistency with other jurisdictions and appropriate consideration of newer building materials/practices, such as mass timber. Impact on Development Cost The proposed changes would likely have a neutral impact on development costs overall. The 2024 IBC is a model code that makes incremental changes to improve building standards. Some changes raise the cost of construction in the interest of improving factors such as safety, accessibility, and code consistency. Other code changes decrease costs through means such as eliminating unnecessary requirements, providing clarification, or allowing greater design flexibility. The wider cost benefits of improved building safety, resilience, consideration of newer technology, and consistency with other jurisdictions’ building codes can counterbalance immediate building cost increases as well. 2024 Model Code Update: Research from the University of Florida is currently underway to evaluate the cost impact of updating from the 2023 Florida Building Codes to the 2024 International Codes (Issa et al. 2024).1 The 2023 Florida Building Code adopts the 2021 IBC as its model, so it may be a fair baseline to understand the overall cost impact of the changes from the 2021 IBC to the 2024 IBC. The State of Florida does adopt amendments to the model codes, but they have the closest available comparison to understand the cost impacts of adopting the 2024 IBC. The University of Florida study models the adoption of the 2024 International Codes on seven different building types, including small office, retail, primary school, small hotel, mid-rise apartment, 1-story residence, …
Community Engagement Summary: 2024 Technical Code Changes Engagement #1 (IBC & ISPSC) Overview The City of Austin updates the technical codes in accordance with the International Code Council (ICC) and International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) code cycle schedules. The International Codes are the most trusted source of model codes and standards. In preparation for the adoption of 2024 Technical Codes later this year, DSD provided stakeholder engagement opportunities for updates to the International Building Code (IBC) and the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC). These codes, along with any needed local amendments, will be reviewed by the Austin City Council prior to adoption. 2024 Technical Code Changes stakeholder engagement opportunities (IBC & ISPSC): • Public Input web page Open to community comments from March 20, 2024 to April 26, 2024. • Stakeholder Webinar with Q&A Tuesday, April 9, 2024 from 11:30 a.m. – 12:05 p.m. Stakeholders & Advertising The week of March 25, 2024 an email invitation to participate in the engagements was sent to 3,322 stakeholder email addresses (148 specified stakeholders, 2,750 active building permit holders, and 528 pool permit holders; note: discrepancy due to duplicate removal). The engagement opportunities were also included in the in the January, February, and March 2024 Building Connections external e- newsletter; each issue was sent to between 5,655 and 5,726 subscribers. Additionally, the engagements were included in the internal e-newsletter, the DSD Insider, in January and March 2024 and were posted on the DSD Events Calendar webpage in March 2024. A bilingual (English and Spanish) social media post was published on Facebook (891 followers) and Instagram (464 followers) on March 29. Feedback Summary In total, 200 community members participated in the first round of engagement for the 2024 Technical Code Changes which focused on the IBC and ISPSC. The Public Input Web Page Open to community comments or questions from March 20 to April 26, 2024, the IBC page received 901 views and 172 comments. During that same comment period, the ISPSC page received 74 views and zero comments. The IBC page comments and questions are summarized below. pg. 1 pg. 2 The overwhelming majority IBC comments were in support of single stair buildings, with only one comment in opposition. The responses could be categorized into several common themes around single stair reform: Support for Single Stair Buildings (159 responses), Safety and Fire Regulations Concerns (68 responses), Affordable Housing …
Community Engagement Summary: 2024 Technical Code Changes Engagement #2 (UMC, UPC, IRC, IBC, IPMC, IECC, IFC, WUIC) Overview The City of Austin updates the technical codes in accordance with the International Code Council (ICC) and International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) code cycle schedules. The International Codes are the most trusted source of model codes and standards. In preparation for the adoption of 2024 Technical Codes later this year, DSD provided stakeholder engagement opportunities for updates to the Uniform Mechanical Code (UMC), Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), International Residential Code (IRC), International Building Code (IBC), International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC), International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), International Fire Code (IFC), and the Wildland Urban Interface Code (WUIC). These codes, along with any needed local amendments, will be reviewed by the Austin City Council prior to adoption. 2024 Technical Code Changes stakeholder engagement opportunities: Public Input web page The time frames below indicate the duration of the Public Input web page comment period for each code, during which the proposed amendments were available for review. o Uniform Mechanical Code (UMC): May 15 – June 16, 2024 o Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC): May 15 – June 16, 2024 o International Residential Code (IRC): June 25 – July 24, 2024 o International Building Code (IBC): June 25 – July 24, 2024* o International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC): June 4 – July 5, 2024 o International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) : June 12 – July 8, 2024 o International Fire Code (IFC): May 28 – June 27, 2024 o Wildland Urban Interface Code (WUIC): May 20 – June 28, 2024 *Updates to the International Building Code (IBC) were posted for a second round of public input following the addition of additional language. Stakeholder Webinar with Q&A Monday, May 20, 2024 from 11:30 a.m. – 1:10 p.m. In-Person Stakeholder Engagement Thursday, May 30, 2024 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. City of Austin Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr., Austin, TX, 78752 Event Center 1405 • • • pg. 1 Stakeholders & Advertising Tactics First Round: IBC, ISPSC The week of March 25, 2024 an email invitation to participate in the first round of technical code changes engagements (focusing on the IBC and ISPSC) was sent to 3,322 stakeholder email addresses (148 specified stakeholders, 2,750 active building permit holders, and 528 pool permit holders; note: discrepancy due to duplicate removal). The email included promotion …
FLOOR MODIFICATION E24-24-SHAPIRO-MC1 2024 International Building Code Revise as follows: Proponent: Jeffrey Shapiro, International Code Consultants, Self (jeff.shapiro@intlcodeconsultants.com) TABLE 1006.3.4(1) STORIES AND OCCUPIABLE ROOFS WITH ONE EXIT OR ACCESS TO ONE EXIT FOR R-2 OCCUPANCIES . Basement, first, second, or third, or fourth story above grade plane and occupiable roofs over the first, or second, or third story above grade plane Fourth Fifth story above grade plane and higher STORY OCCUPANCY MAXIMUM NUMBER OF MAXIMUM EXIT ACCESS TRAVEL DWELLING UNITS DISTANCE a, b, c, d R-2 4 dwelling units NP NA 125 feet NA d. 4-story buildings and 3-story buildings with an occupiable roof above the third story shall also comply with Section 1006.3.4.2. Add new text as follows: 1006.3.4.2 Single exit four-story buildings with Group R-2 dwelling units. Four-story buildings with a single exit for Group R-2 dwelling units shall comply with Table 1006.3.4(1) and all of the following: 1. The net floor area of each floor shall not exceed 4,000 square feet (418.5 m ). 2 2. Openings to the interior exit stairway enclosure shall be limited to those required for exit access into the enclosure from normally occupied spaces, those required for egress from the enclosure, and openings to the exterior. Elevators shall not open into the interior exit stairway enclosure. 3. A manual fire alarm system and automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be provided. Smoke detectors shall be located in common spaces outside of dwelling units, including but not limited to gathering areas, laundry rooms, mechanical equipment rooms, storage rooms, interior corridors, interior exit stairways, and exit passageways. 4. Regardless of the stairway construction type, automatic sprinkler locations in interior exit stairways shall comply with the requirements of NFPA 13 for combustible stairways. 5. Electrical receptacles shall be prohibited in an interior exit stairway. FLOOR MODIFICATION # 38 E24-24-SHAPIRO-MC1 This floor modification is based on work of a joint FCAC/BCAC workgroup, which achieved consensus. The objective of this workgroup was bringing together interested parties in an effort to determine whether there is an opportunity for incremental progress in extending the current 3- story limit on R-2 single-exit buildings in the 2027 code. More immediately, the workgroup desired to achieve a recommendation of APPROVAL AS MODIFIED by the Means of Egress Committee at the Long Beach hearing, which may assist state and local jurisdictions that have …
2024 Wildland-Urban Interface Code and local amendments (WUIC) Stakeholder Engagement Summary The following is a summary of stakeholder engagement conducted for review of the 2024 Wildland- Urban Interface Code and local amendments (WUIC). Initial proposed amendments were developed by the Engineering and Plan Review division of the Austin Fire Department Fire Marshal’s Office from 2021 – 2023. A City of Austin internal working group reviewed and further refined proposed amendments during December 2023 – January 2024 including participants from the following: The community stakeholder engagement period was open from May 20, 2024 – June 28, 2024. Austin Fire Department Fire Marshal’s Office, Engineering and Plan Review Fire Marshal’s Office, Inspections Wildfire Division Development Services Department City Arborist Community Tree Preservation Environmental Review Watershed Protection Environmental Policy and Review Community Stakeholder Engagement Engagement Website: Speak Up Austin: https://publicinput.com/2024-technical-codes Webinar Recordings: https://www.austintexas.gov/page/public- meetings#2024MeetingRecordingsampResources Community Engagement Timeline and Summary: May 20, 2024 Public Meeting for I-Codes Zoom Webinar No discussion or questions specific to WUIC Limited discussion May 23, 2024 Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin PAGE 1 HBA office Limited discussion Following Meeting: Suggestion to reduce requirements for Zone C or allow trade-off of additional structure hardening in lieu of EIZ May 28, 2024 Requested meeting date with HBA and their membership, unable to settle on a date, so additional WUIC specific Zoom webinar offered on June 24, 2024, open to the public. May 30, 2024 Public Meeting for I-Codes City of Austin Planning and Development Center No discussion or questions specific to WUIC June 7, 2024 Revised Draft released Changes addressing recent HOME amendments Public engagement date extended June 24, 2024 Public Meeting for WUIC Zoom Webinar Questions and Answers included in “2024 WUIC Ordinance Public Comment Log” June 26, 2024 Building and Fire Code Board Presentation June 28, 2024 Close of Public Stakeholder Engagement July 11, 2024 Building and Fire Code Board Presentation of changes made in response to stakeholder feedback August 28, 2024 Building and Fire Code Board (SCHEDULED) Presentation of final changes made in response to internal and external stakeholder feedback Request for support Appendices Appendix A – Stakeholder Engagement Communication Summary Appendix B – Public Input Web Platform Statistics …
PROPOSED IBC 2024 CODE V1, DRAFT SUBJECT TO ADDITIONAL CHANGES AN ORDINANCE REPEALING AND REPLACING DIVISION 1 OF ARTICLE 1 OF CITY CODE CHAPTER 25‐12 RELATING TO THE INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE; REPEALING AND REPLACING ARTICLE 10 OF CITY CODE CHAPTER 25‐12 RELATING TO THE INTERNATIONAL EXISTING BUILDING CODE; AND CREATING OFFENSES. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: PART 1. City Code Chapter 25‐12 (Technical Codes) is amended to repeal and replace Division 1 of Article 1 (Building Code) to read: DIVISION 1. INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE AND LOCAL AMENDMENTS § 25‐12‐1 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE. (A) The International Building Code, 2021 2024 Edition, published by the International Code Council ("2021 2024 International Building Code") is adopted and incorporated by reference into this section with the deletions in Subsection (B) and the amendments in Section 25‐12‐3 (Local Amendments to the International Building Code). (B) The following provisions of the 20241 International Building Code are deleted. 414.1.3305.2.3 503.1.4 plus subsections 308.2.3 Chapter 9 308.2.4 1612 plus subsections 427.6 2901.1503.1.4 1108.6.4.2 1301.1 3102.5Chapter 9 103 plus subsections Table 1004.5308.3 3201.11008.2.1 1507.8 plus subsections 1507.9 plus subsections 1607.8.2 1612 plus subsections 2901.1 2902.2 2902.6 3102.5 3201.1 3202.1 Table 2901.1 Footnote (e) 1010.1.2308.3.1.1 1010.3.3 308.3.2 3202.1 1009.3 3202.3.41010.1.2 1102.1308.5 1204 plus subsections 308.5.1 1301.1 308.5.3 1507.8 plus subsections 308.5.4 1507.9 plus subsections 310.2 1607.8.2310.4.1 406.4.3 1010.2.7 1010.3.3 1101.2 1102.1 1108.6.1.2 1108.6.2.2.2 1108.6.2.3.2 1108.6.3 Page 1 of 19 101.4.1 101.4.2 101.4.3 104.32.1 105.1.1 105.2 105.5 107.2.6 110.3 112.3 113 plus subsections 305.2 305.2.2 Table 1004.5 414.1.3 (C) The following definition is deleted from Section 202.2.1 (General Definitions) of the 2021 International Building Code: (C) The city clerk shall file a copy of the 20241 International Building Code with the official ordinances of FOSTER CARE FACILITIES. (B) the City. § 25‐12‐2 CITATIONS TO THE BUILDING CODE. In the City Code, "Building Code" means the 20241 International Building Code adopted in Section 25‐12‐1 (International Building Code) as amended by Section 25‐12‐3 (Local Amendments to the International Building Code). In this article, "this code" means the Building Code. § 25‐12‐3 LOCAL AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE. Each provision in this section is a substitute for the identically numbered provision deleted in Section 25‐12‐ 1(B) (International Building Code) or is an addition to the 20241 International Building Code. [A] 101.4.1 Gas. The provisions of the International Fuel Gas Code and the Plumbing Code shall apply …
INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FIRE FIGHTERS METROPOLITAN FIRE CHIEFS ASSOCIATION Joint Statement Regarding Single Stairways in Multifamily Buildings The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) and Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association (Metro Chiefs) have joined forces to notify our members and the general public of efforts in some jurisdictions to reduce the number of required exit stairwells and permit a single means of egress in multifamily buildings up to six stories. Current model code requires at least two means of egress in residential occupancies above three stories. These legislative actions are an attempt to supersede the model safety codes, placing occupants and fire fighters at greater risk of injury and death. We must do all we can to defeat these misguided efforts. Allowing residential structures to be built with exemptions or modifications contrary to decades of research and investigation will jeopardize safety. Put simply, lives will be endangered. History is filled with examples of incidents where a single means of egress and blocked egress resulted in trapped occupants and loss of life. More concerning is that some state, provincial, and local legislatures are considering reducing established critical life-saving features by circumventing the national code development consensus process. The national code development process ensures equal, non-biased dialogue between all stakeholders to find consensus. Circumventing the code development process jeopardizes the public, building occupants, and first responders. Much like smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms, proper exiting is known to have saved thousands of lives and remains the fundamental building block to life safety. Layered fire prevention measures encompassing multiple means of egress, fire suppression systems, fire-rated construction, automatic fire alarm systems, compartmentalization, and many other codes provide a reasonable, widely accepted, and nationally developed level of protection. Drastic changes, such as those proposed in some jurisdictions, directly contrast with time-tested safety fundamentals. Model codes and standards are minimum safety requirements established to address identified hazards, including fires, explosions, hazardous materials incidents, natural disasters, and other dangerous events. In opposing this effort, the IAFF and the Metro Chiefs recognize the following: 1. Single means of egress places residents and fire fighters in danger; 2. Many fire departments lack the personnel and equipment required to combat these types of fires and to safely evacuate large numbers of people from elevated floors through a single means of egress; 3. Operations on ground or aerial ladders are hazardous for trained fire fighters. Removing occupants via ground or …
TABLE 1006.3.4(1) STORIES WITH ONE EXIT OR ACCESS TO ONE EXIT FOR R-2 OCCUPANCIES STORY OCCUPANCY MAXIMUM EXIT ACCESS TRAVEL MAXIMUM NUMBER OF DWELLING UNITS Basement, first, second, third, 4th or 5th story above grade plane and occ. roofs over the 1st, 2nd, 3rd or 4th story Sixth story above grade plane and higher For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm. NP = Not Permitted. NA = Not Applicable R-2a, b,c,d 4 dwelling units 125 feet NP NA NA a.Buildings classified as Group R-2 equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and provided with emergency escape and rescue openings in accordance with Section 1031. b.This table is used for R-2 occupancies consisting of dwelling units. For R-2 occupancies consisting of sleeping units, use Table 1006.3.4(2). c.This table is for occupiable roofs accessed through and serving individual dwelling units in Group R-2 occupancies. For Group R-2 occupancies with occupiable roofs that are not accessed through and serving individual units, use Table 1006.3.4(2). d. 5-story buildings and 4-story buildings with an occupiable roof above the third story shall also comply with Section 1006.3.4.2. 1006.3.4.2 Single exit 4 or 5 story Group R-2 Occupancies. 4 or 5 story buildings with a single exit for Group R-2 dwelling units shall comply with Table 1006.3.4(1) and all of the following: 1. The net floor area of each floor served by a single exit shall not exceed 4,000 square feet (418.5 m). 2. An exterior exit stairway or interior exit stairway shall be provided at each story served by a single exit. Exit Access Doors into the exit stairway shall swing in the direction of egress travel regardless of the occupant load served. 3. Regardless of the stairway construction type, automatic sprinkler locations in interior exit stairways shall comply with the requirements of NFPA 13 for combustible stairways. 4. There shall be no more than 20 feet (6096 mm) of travel to the exit stairway from the entry/exit door of any dwelling unit. 5. The exit shall not terminate in an egress court where the court depth exceeds the court width unless it is possible to exit in either direction to the public way. 6. Other occupancies shall not communicate with the Group R occupancy portion of the building or with the single-exit stairway. Exception: parking garages and occupied roofs accessory to the Group R occupancy are permitted to …
AUSTIN FIRE DEPARTMENT 2024 International Wildland Urban Interface Code Adoption Updated 06/06/2024 to reflect City of AustinLand Development Code amendments.Pages 6, 8, 11-12, 28.Updated 07/03/2024 to reflect stakeholderfeedback. Page 29.Updated 07/09/2024 (for Building and FireCode Board Update) and 07/25/2024 toreflect stakeholder feedback. Pages 3, 9,10, 11, 13-16, 19, 25, 29, 30, 32.Updated for 01/22/2025 Building and FireCode Board presentation, with WUI mapcleanup including wildland perimeter andnew development. Pages 13, 14, 15, and 16 2024 International Wildland Urban Interface Code L o c a l A m e n d m e n t A d o p t i o n Our Mission Goes Beyond Our Name is our cornerstone As a leader in the fire service: We are on the cutting-edge of technology and training. We protect lives and property through extensive fire prevention and safety education efforts, in addition to a quick and effective response to emergencies. 2 Proposed Adoption In accordance with ICC latest publication, Austin Fire Department is on track to implement the 2024 International Wildland Urban Interface Code (IWUIC) and local amendments 30 days following City Council adoption, tentative date November 16, 2024. 3 07/25/2024:Updated to reflectCity of Austin LandDevelopment Codeamendments Coordinate and Clarify Goals: Clarify previously adopted local amendments with changing technology and published code. Adjust requirements based on challenges and successes of initial implementation of the IWUIC. Reasons for amendments: 1. To support operating procedures for Wildfire Operations. 2. Formalize WUI Proximity Zones to clarify structure hardening requirements. 3. Align requirements with current wildfire research. 4. Clarification purposes and formalizing 2015 WUIC interpretations. 4 2024 IWUIC Significant Changes Significant Changes to IWUIC model code: • 104 Determination of Compliance (COA amendments refer to Fire Code) • Outlines requirements for technical opinions, reports, and alternative materials, design and methods • 503.2 Ignition-resistant building material. Reorganized and clarified. • 504.5.1 Flashing. Additional requirements above International Residential Code. • 504.10, 505.10, 506.5 Vents • Performance and Prescriptive requirements • 1/8” max. mesh openings, in alignment with current COA regulation 5 2024 WUIC Highlights Changes • Unofficial “Proximity Classes” defined and renamed Proximity Zones A, B, and C • Zone A & B modified protection of accessory structures • Zone B enhanced protection of walls • Zone C enhanced eave and ceiling protection • Zone C reduced roofing, underfloor enclosure, and slope requirements • NEW Ember Ignition Zone • Expiration of initial code launch leniency • Driveways …
2025 Approved Meeting Schedule for Building & Fire Code Board of Appeals The board shall meet monthly at 1:30 pm or when the board is legally required to meet to comply with a legal deadline. MEETING DATES CANCELLED DATES Notes (The 4th Wednesday) Election of Officers Annual Report Due January 22, 2025 February 26, 2025 March 26, 2025 April 23, 2025 May 28, 2025 June 25, 2025 July 23, 2025 August 27, 2025 September 24, 2025 October 22, 2025 November 20,2025 Moved to 3rd Thursday Thanksgiving- Nov 27&28 December 18, 2025 Moved to 3rd Thursday Xmas and Xmas eve on 24 &25 Remember to note change in regular meeting date if it conflicts with a holiday.
Building and Fire Code Board of Appeals Board Meeting Approved Minutes January 22, 2025 The Building and Fire Code Board of Appeals met in a Special Called Meeting on January 22, 2025 Board Member, Schumann called the meeting to order at 1:31 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Ben Abzug, Ron Buys, Oren Mitzner, Jim Rumbo, Alan Schumann, Aubrey Brasfield, Allison Satt, Cecilia Paredes Juarez and Chris Gannon Board Members Not in Attendance: No one absent Staff in Attendance: Rick Arzola (DSD) and Todd Wilcox (DSD), Ray Chiovaro (DSD), Ben Flick (AFD), Stephen Truesdell (AFD) and Andre DeLeReza (AFD) GENERAL CITIZEN COMMUNICTION- David Glenn with the Home Builders Association spoke and opposes to the WUI code to concerns of expansion of a home. Currently 71% of homes are in the Wildland Urban Interface area and has seen no reduction in the map process. Also noted, maps are required to be updated once a year and this is the first in 6 years. Homes in review are subject to 1 review and 2 inspections, each being serviced by Austin Transportation with Right of Way inspections for driveways and Austin Water for sprinkler services. Biggest concerns are the expansion of the map and its ember ignition zone, known as EIZ. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: 1. The minutes from the August 28, 2024, Regular called meeting were approved as written. Board member Mitzner made a motion to accept the minutes as written, board member Abzug second the motion. Motion passed 9-0. 2. PUBLIC HEARING AND ACTION- After completion of the presentation of the International Wildland Urban Interface Code, there were several questions that the board wanted staff to address regarding the wildland maps, staff will be updating language to the amendments to meet the request that the board recommends. Vice Chairman Brasfield made a motion to recommend the WUI, Chairman Schuman second the motion with the agreement that Wildland maps are updated within the year and updates to be continued every code cycle. 3. PUBLIC HEARING AND ACTION- The International Building Code (IBC) will be postponed till January 29th in a Special Called meeting 4 APPROVE THE 2025 BUILDING AND FIRE BOARD SCHEDULE. The 2025 Board scheduled was approved as written, board member Brasfield made a motion to approve the 2025 board schedule, board member Buys second the motion. Motion pass 9-0 FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS: • Recommendations: International Building Code. ADJOURN: Without objection, Chairman Schumann …
City of Austin Founded by Congress, Republic of Texas, 1839 Planning and Development Center, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr 78752 P.O. Box 1088, Austin, Texas 78767 January 23, 2025 To: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members From: Alan Schumann, Chair, Building and Fire Code Board of Appeals Meeting date: January 22, 2025 Subject: Recommendation 20250122-2 for Council Action: 2024 WUI Dear Mayor and Council Members, At the January 22, 2025 Special Called Meeting, the Building and Fire Code Board of Appeals held a public hearing regarding the adoption of the 2024 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code. Members present were Alan Schumann, Chair, Aubrey Brasfield, Vice Chair, Ben Abzug, Ron Buys, Oren Mitzner, Allison Satt, Chris Gannon, Cecilia Paredes-Juarez and Jim Rumbo. The public hearing began with the presentation of Ben Flick and Andre DeLaReza, Development Services Department and there a number of questions. The Board had been briefed on the 2024 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code and proposed amendments at our regular meeting on 6/26/2024 and 7/11/2024 by Beth Culver, Ben Flick and Andre DeLaReza, Development Services Department. Board members asked about the criteria used to determine the proximity zones, and staff responded briefly. Chair Schumann closed the public hearing. After review with Board Members and Staff, the Board was satisfied with the staff amendments. Aubrey Brasfield made a motion to recommend the City Council adopt the 2024 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code with local amendments as written by staff, and seconded by Alan Schumann. Several members remained concerned about the map updates. Alan Schumann amended his second requesting a one time map update occur within a year, while keeping the text of the code unchanged. Future updates are expected to follow the 3-year cycle. The amendment was acceptable to Aubrey Brasfield. The Board members voted and the motion passed unanimously, 9-0. Sincerely, Alan Schumann Chair, Building and Fire Code Board of Appeals Xc: Building and Fire Code Board of Appeal board members Jose Roig, Director, Development Services Department Todd Wilcox, Building Official, Development Service Department Brenda De La Garza, Assistant Director, Development Service Department. Tim Taylor, Chief Building Inspector, Development Service Department Martin Starrett, Commercial Building Division Manager, Development Service Department Scott Cochran, Residential Building Division Manager, Development Service Department
REGULAR MEETING of the ZONING AND PLATTING COMMISSION TUESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2025, 6:00 PM AUSTIN CITY HALL, COUNCIL CHAMBERS, ROOM 1001 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Zoning and Platting 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: Hank Smith – Chair (District 8) Betsy Greenberg – Vice-Chair (District 6) Carrie Thompson – Secretary (District 10) Alejandra Flores – Parliamentarian (District 5) Scott Boone (District 1) Felix De Portu (District 4) David Fouts (District 2) William D. Floyd (Mayor’s Representative) Ryan Puzycki (District 7) Lonny Stern (District 3) Taylor Major (District 9) EXECUTIVE SESSION (No public discussion) The Zoning and Platting Commission will announce it will go into Executive Session, if necessary, pursuant to Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, to receive advice from Legal Counsel on matters specifically listed on this agenda. The commission may not conduct a closed meeting without the approval of the city attorney. Private Consultation with Attorney – Section 551.071 AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Executive Liaison: Joi Harden, 512-974-1617 Staff Liaison: Ella Garcia, 512-978-0821 Attorney: AJ Urteaga, 512-974-2386 PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 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 Zoning and Platting Commission regular meeting on January 7, 2025. PUBLIC HEARINGS 7304 Knox Ln., Fort Branch Watershed 2. Historic Zoning: C14H-2024-0162 - Running Rope Ranch; District 10 Location: Owner/Applicant: Historic Landmark Commission (owner-opposed) Agent: Request: Staff Rec.: Staff: Owner's agent - Leah Bojo, Drenner Group SF-3 to SF-3-H Recommended Kalan Contreras, 512-974-2727, kalan.contreras@austintexas.gov Planning Department C14-2024-0118.SH - 8301 Riverstone; District 1 8301 Riverstone Drive, Elm Creek Watershed 3. Rezoning: Location: Owner/Applicant: 8301 Riverstone LP Agent: Request: Staff Rec.: Staff: Austin Revitalization Authority (Bryan Kight) MF-2 to SF-3 Recommended Jonathan Tomko, 512-974-1057, jonathan.tomko@austintexas.gov Planning Department 4. …
7304 KNOX LANE Carter Design Associates (CDA) was retained to review existing research and the residential structure located at 7404 Knox Lane, Austin, Texas. The review was to determine whether the structure met the criteria for historic zoning by the City of Austin. On September 19th, 2024 CDA met on site with the Owner to assess the historic merits of the primary residence and if the criteria were met was there an intact historic structure that could be relocated onsite. The residential structure consists of multiple additions and modifications made by the Knox family throughout their lifetime and ownership of the property. All findings and hypotheses are based on visual observation and research limited to mapping, photographs (contemporary and historic) and written accounts. The original intent of CDA’s review concerned the historic criteria and how, if at all, the structure met the stated criteria. The history of the property suggested that the building had been modified, and there might be an “original” historic building that would better meet the criteria. Our work was to uncover this historic structure and determine how it could be relocated on the site. Findings The site visit forced a revision of the working hypotheses 1. The residence had been radically modified over time and what appeared to the historic features were actually constructed with replica materials. 2. The site/land is just as important as the residential structure 3. The outbuildings better tell the story of the Knox family, based on historic accounts. Today, the residence is a L-shaped plan with a two-story portion to the East; a curved, wrap around covered porch to the Southeast; enclosed shed-roofed porch to the West; and an early one-room addition to the South. Most of the exterior finishes such as the roof, board and batten siding, doors, windows, screens, siding, shutters and trim are modern construction and/or replacements. The finishes do not reflect an historic photo (See Photo X -) which appears to be the South façade of the residence, nor is there any of the (olive-green) stucco mentioned on page 71 of the Austin Originals – Chats with Colorful Characters by Robyn Turner. Many of the interior finishes have been replaced with modern materials chosen for aesthetic reasons by the Owners and intended to reflect an older rustic style. (Exhibit C) 02 C14H-2024-0162 Running Rope Ranch; District 101 of 18 Using historical aerial photos, we can begin to …
Permitting and Development Center | 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive, Austin, TX 78752 | (512) 978-4000 Property Profile Report Residential Design Standards: LDC/25-2-Subchapter F Wildland Urban Interface: Proximity Class - Within 1.5 miles of a Wildland Area Zoning Map Northwest Austin Civic Association, Parmer/ Avery Island Neighborhood Assn. Zoning Guide The Guide to Zoning provides a quick explanation of the above Zoning codes, however, the Land Development Information Services provides general zoning assistance and can advise you on the type of development allowed on a property. Visit Zoning for the description of each Base Zoning District. For official verification of the zoning of a property, please order a Zoning Verification Letter. General information on the Neighborhood Planning Areas is available from Neighborhood Planning. Imagery Map General Information Location: Parcel ID: Grid: 7304 KNOX LN 0140030611 MH30 Planning & Zoning *Right click hyperlinks to open in a new window. Future Land Use (FLUM): No Future Land Use Map Regulating Plan: No Regulating Plan Zoning: Zoning Cases: SF-3 None: Zoning Ordinances: 19990225-070b Zoning Overlays: Infill Options: -- Neighborhood Restricted Parking Areas: Mobile Food Vendors: Northwest Austin CA Historic Landmark: Urban Roadways: -- Yes No No CWQZ NORTH No Yes Environmental Fully Developed Floodplain: FEMA Floodplain: Austin Watershed Regulation Areas: URBAN Watershed Boundaries: Shoal Creek Creek Buffers: Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone: Edwards Aquifer Recharge Verification Zone: Erosion Hazard Zone Review Buffer: Political Boundaries Jurisdiction: AUSTIN FULL PURPOSE Council District: 10 County: TRAVIS School District: Austin ISD Community Registry: Austin Independent School District, Austin Lost and Found Pets, Austin Neighborhoods Council, Friends of Austin Neighborhoods, NW Austin Neighbors, Neighborhood Empowerment Foundation, Northwest Austin Civic Association, SELTexas, Sierra Club, Austin Regional Group, TNR BCP - Travis County Natural Resources Vicinity Map The Information on this report has been produced by the City of Austin as a working document and is not warranted for any other use. No warranty is made by the City regarding its accuracy or completeness. Date created: 9/25/2024 02 C14H-2024-0162 Running Rope Ranch; District 1018 of 18
7304 KNOX LANE Carter Design Associates (CDA) was retained to review existing research and the residential structure located at 7404 Knox Lane, Austin, Texas. The review was to determine whether the structure met the criteria for historic zoning by the City of Austin. On September 19th, 2024 CDA met on site with the Owner to assess the historic merits of the primary residence and if the criteria were met was there an intact historic structure that could be relocated onsite. The residential structure consists of multiple additions and modifications made by the Knox family throughout their lifetime and ownership of the property. All findings and hypotheses are based on visual observation and research limited to mapping, photographs (contemporary and historic) and written accounts. The original intent of CDA’s review concerned the historic criteria and how, if at all, the structure met the stated criteria. The history of the property suggested that the building had been modified, and there might be an “original” historic building that would better meet the criteria. Our work was to uncover this historic structure and determine how it could be relocated on the site. Findings The site visit forced a revision of the working hypotheses 1. The residence had been radically modified over time and what appeared to the historic features were actually constructed with replica materials. 2. The site/land is just as important as the residential structure 3. The outbuildings better tell the story of the Knox family, based on historic accounts. Today, the residence is a L-shaped plan with a two-story portion to the East; a curved, wrap around covered porch to the Southeast; enclosed shed-roofed porch to the West; and an early one-room addition to the South. Most of the exterior finishes such as the roof, board and batten siding, doors, windows, screens, siding, shutters and trim are modern construction and/or replacements. The finishes do not reflect an historic photo (See Photo X -) which appears to be the South façade of the residence, nor is there any of the (olive-green) stucco mentioned on page 71 of the Austin Originals – Chats with Colorful Characters by Robyn Turner. Many of the interior finishes have been replaced with modern materials chosen for aesthetic reasons by the Owners and intended to reflect an older rustic style. (Exhibit C) 02 C14H-2024-0162 Running Rope Ranch; District 101 of 20 Using historical aerial photos, we can begin to …
Permitting and Development Center | 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive, Austin, TX 78752 | (512) 978-4000 Property Profile Report Residential Design Standards: LDC/25-2-Subchapter F Wildland Urban Interface: Proximity Class - Within 1.5 miles of a Wildland Area Zoning Map Northwest Austin Civic Association, Parmer/ Avery Island Neighborhood Assn. Zoning Guide The Guide to Zoning provides a quick explanation of the above Zoning codes, however, the Land Development Information Services provides general zoning assistance and can advise you on the type of development allowed on a property. Visit Zoning for the description of each Base Zoning District. For official verification of the zoning of a property, please order a Zoning Verification Letter. General information on the Neighborhood Planning Areas is available from Neighborhood Planning. Imagery Map General Information Location: Parcel ID: Grid: 7304 KNOX LN 0140030611 MH30 Planning & Zoning *Right click hyperlinks to open in a new window. Future Land Use (FLUM): No Future Land Use Map Regulating Plan: No Regulating Plan Zoning: Zoning Cases: SF-3 None: Zoning Ordinances: 19990225-070b Zoning Overlays: Infill Options: -- Neighborhood Restricted Parking Areas: Mobile Food Vendors: Northwest Austin CA Historic Landmark: Urban Roadways: -- Yes No No CWQZ NORTH No Yes Environmental Fully Developed Floodplain: FEMA Floodplain: Austin Watershed Regulation Areas: URBAN Watershed Boundaries: Shoal Creek Creek Buffers: Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone: Edwards Aquifer Recharge Verification Zone: Erosion Hazard Zone Review Buffer: Political Boundaries Jurisdiction: AUSTIN FULL PURPOSE Council District: 10 County: TRAVIS School District: Austin ISD Community Registry: Austin Independent School District, Austin Lost and Found Pets, Austin Neighborhoods Council, Friends of Austin Neighborhoods, NW Austin Neighbors, Neighborhood Empowerment Foundation, Northwest Austin Civic Association, SELTexas, Sierra Club, Austin Regional Group, TNR BCP - Travis County Natural Resources Vicinity Map The Information on this report has been produced by the City of Austin as a working document and is not warranted for any other use. No warranty is made by the City regarding its accuracy or completeness. Date created: 9/25/2024 02 C14H-2024-0162 Running Rope Ranch; District 1018 of 20 02 C14H-2024-0162 Running Rope Ranch; District 1019 of 20 02 C14H-2024-0162 Running Rope Ranch; District 1020 of 20
02 C14H-2024-0162 Running Rope Ranch; District 101 of 4 1/2/25, 2:09 PM Mail - Garcia, Ella - Outlook Thank you for your consideration. James E. Jarrett 7301 Running Rope Austin, TX 78731 CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov". https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAMkADZmYmIxMjZhLTBiMGMtNDRlNC1iMGNiLTlmOTZiZDJkZTBjOABGAAAAAADejYBKWfI4SoHnPgrYj5s… 2/2 02 C14H-2024-0162 Running Rope Ranch; District 102 of 4 02 C14H-2024-0162 Running Rope Ranch; District 103 of 4 02 C14H-2024-0162 Running Rope Ranch; District 104 of 4
From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Leah Bojo Contreras, Kalan Temaria Davis Re: Postponement request for 1/7 ZAP Monday, January 6, 2025 4:17:30 PM External Email - Exercise Caution Hi Kalan, We can agree to 1/21. Thanks and Happy New Year! Leah M. Bojo, AICP, Director of Land Use & Entitlements 2705 Bee Caves Road, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78746 Drenner Group, PC | 512-665-1570 cell | | www.drennergroup.com 02 C14H-2024-0162 Running Rope Ranch; District 101 of 1
02 C14H-2024-0162 Running Rope Ranch; District 101 of 51 From: To: Subject: Date: Meghan Ellington Contreras, Kalan Knox Lane zoning and development plans. Monday, January 6, 2025 5:42:14 PM You don't often get email from Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution To whom it may concern: I’m writing in regards to the Knox Lane zoning and development plan. My name is Meghan Ellington and my family lives on Spurlock, directly affected by the traffic from Running Rope. We have three kids, 10, 7 and 4, who constantly use our driveway, yard and adjacent street as a place to safely play. There are young children all up and down our street. There are no sidewalks on our street and all of these children regularly ride bikes and visit neighbors. Most of them also walk to school at Doss Elementary and walk home from school. We are all firmly opposed to the proposal from the developer to build up to 20 units on the historic and environmentally sensitive Knox property. Our opposition is based largely on three points: (1) The developer intends to use a single, short cul de sac as the sole entry and exit for 20 residences (including ADUs), which could conservatively mean 40 vehicles. Knox Lane is a short cul de sac, perhaps 50 yards long. The developer has not conducted a traffic study to my knowledge. The developer has continually increased the number of planned units for the space, without regard to the effects that these vehicles will have on the neighborhood and the environment. The increased traffic will be dangerous to the children in the neighborhood, bad for the many heritage trees adjoining Knox Lane, and detrimental to the area at large. (2) As was discussed previously at the historical commission meeting, the Knox property includes a spring fed pool (it has been estimated there may be up to 6 springs), which are believed to house an endangered salamander. To our knowledge, the developer has not conducted any hydrological study purporting to examine the impact that paving a massive portion of this property (the developer plans to put a private drive in where now there is open ground) will have on recharge zones for these springs or the endangered species inhabiting them. This type of groundwater is scarce natural resource, one that every citizen has an interest in protecting. No development should occur …
CASE NUMBER: PR-2024-021145; GF-2024-043942 ZONING CHANGE REVIEW SHEET HLC DATES: May 1, 2024; June 5, 2024; July 3, 2024; August 7, 2024; September 4, 2024; October 2, 2024; November 6, 2024 ZAP DATE: January 7, 2025; January 21, 2025 APPLICANT: Historic Landmark Commission (owner-opposed) HISTORIC NAME: Running Rope Ranch WATERSHED: Shoal Creek ADDRESS OF PROPOSED ZONING CHANGE: 7304 Knox Lane ZONING CHANGE: SF-3 to SF-3-H COUNCIL DISTRICT: 10 STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Recommend historic zoning (SF-3-H) only for the portion of the property already restricted by the conservation easement and critical water quality zones. Exclude the portion of the property set aside for the construction of a detention pond. QUALIFICATIONS FOR DESIGNATION: community value, historical associations, archaeology, landscape features HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION ACTION: May 1, 2024 – Postpone the public hearing. September 4, 2024 – initiate historic zoning. November 6, 2024 – Recommend historic zoning under the criteria for community value, archaeology, and landscape features for the conservation easement, critical water quality zones, and THC-identified archaeological sites located on the property. ZONING AND PLATTING COMMISSION ACTION: January 7, 2025 – Postpone the public hearing. CITY COUNCIL ACTION: CASE MANAGER: Kalan Contreras, 512-974-2727 NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANIZATIONS: Austin Independent School District, Austin Lost and Found Pets, Austin Neighborhoods Council, Friends of Austin Neighborhoods, NW Austin Neighbors, Neighborhood Empowerment Foundation, Northwest Austin Civic Association, SELTexas, Sierra Club, Austin Regional Group, TNR BCP - Travis County Natural Resources DEPARTMENT COMMENTS: As the property is listed as a state archaeological site, collaboration with the Texas Historical Commission may be required. BASIS FOR RECOMMENDATION: § 25-2-352(3)(c)(ii) Historical Associations. The property has long-standing significant associations with persons, groups, institutions, businesses, or events of historical importance that contributed significantly to the history of the city, state, or nation or represents a significant portrayal of the cultural practices or the way of life of a definable group of people in a historic time. The property is most recently associated with the Knox family and Running Rope Ranch. The farmstead may have an earlier association with the Spicewood Springs settlement served by Esperanza School. The ranch complex at Knox Lane and Running Rope Lane, known as 7304 or 7306 Knox, was constructed in the early twentieth century—as early as 1900 according to an interview with long-time owner Margaret Knox1—and augmented heavily by the Knox family in the 1940s and later. Located less than a mile from the original site of the Esperanza School,2 …
