Posting Language ..Title Authorize an amendment to a contract for continuation of the Better Building Energy Efficiency Lending Program for Austin Energy with Velocity Credit Union, to increase the amount by $5,000,000 and to extend the term by five years for a revised total contract amount not to exceed $14,400,000. Funding: $600,000 is available in the Operating Budget of Austin Energy. ..Body Lead Department Financial Services Department. Client Department(s) Austin Energy. Fiscal Note Funding in the amount of $600,000 is available in the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Operating Budget of Austin Energy. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. Purchasing Language: Contract Amendment. MBE/WBE: This contract will be awarded in compliance with Chapter 2-9C of the City Code (Minority-Owned and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Procurement Program). No subcontracting opportunities were identified; therefore, no goals were established for this contract. Prior Council Action: April 7, 2011 - Council approved a contract for the energy efficiency lending program with Velocity Credit Union. For More Information: Direct questions regarding this Recommendation for Council Action to the Financial Services Department – Central Procurement at FSDCentralProcurementRCAs@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2500. Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action: May 12, 2025 - To be reviewed by the Electric Utility Commission May 20, 2025 - To be reviewed by the Resource Management Commission. Additional Backup Information: This contract amendment will support Austin Energy’s (AE) Better Building Energy Efficient Lending Program. Currently, through this program, AE offers loans with low interest rates and a flexible credit score threshold for customers to invest in energy efficiency upgrades. The program is especially beneficial for low- to-moderate income customers and small businesses, making energy efficiency improvements more affordable. Additionally, the program supports several AE initiatives, including the Home Energy Savings Program, the Weatherization Assistance Program, and Small Business Program. By reducing upfront cost barriers, it helps building owners to complete comprehensive energy efficiency upgrades through AE’s other programs. Qualifying low-to-moderate income customers can take advantage of zero percent financing for a new air conditioning system when participating in the Weatherization Assistance Program. The program was created through the United States Department of Energy’s Better Building Program, and supports AE’s goal of achieving and increasing energy efficiency savings and renewable energy use. City funds through the Customer Benefits Charge included on customers’ utility bill are used to reduce loan interest rates to promote participation and accessibility of the programs. The …
Posting Language ..Title Authorize a contract for Strategic Partnership of Utilities and Retailers program administration for Austin Energy with CLEAResult Consulting, Inc., for an initial term of two years with up to three one-year extension options in an amount not to exceed $11,000,000. Funding: $1,250,000 is available in Operating Budget of Austin Energy. ..Body Lead Department Financial Services Department. Client Department(s) Austin Energy. Fiscal Note Funding in the amount of $1,250,000 is available in the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Operating Budget of Austin Energy. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. Purchasing Language: Austin Energy is designating this purchase as a Critical Business Need in accordance with Senate Bill 7, as adopted by the City as Resolution No. 040610-02. MBE/WBE: Critical Business Need contracts are exempt from the City Code Chapter 2-9B (Minority-Owned and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Procurement Program); therefore, no subcontracting goals were established. For More Information: Direct questions regarding this Recommendation for Council Action to the Financial Services Department – Central Procurement at FSDCentralProcurementRCAs@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2500. Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action: May 12, 2025 - To be reviewed by the Electric Utility Commission May 20, 2025 - To be reviewed by the Resource Management Commission. Additional Backup Information: The contract is to support the Strategic Partnership of Utilities and Retailers (SPUR) program for Austin Energy. The SPUR program includes a product called Instant Savings which provides price discounts to customers at point of purchase for high efficiency products, such as ENERGY STAR® clothes dryers and smart thermostats. The program also includes the recently launched Retail Coupon, which provides digital coupons that can be used for equipment such as heat pump water heaters. Instant Savings and the addition of the Retail Coupon allow participation in Austin Energy’s demand response programs, which is critical to meeting the goals set in the Resource, Generation, and Climate Protection Plan to 2035. CLEAResult Consulting Inc. provides Austin Energy with a turnkey, cost-effective solution for managing the SPUR program across various retailers and manufacturers. The contractor also works with Austin Energy in the development of future program expansion, which will offer additional products and more opportunities for customers to participate in demand response programs. The customer validation feature for the Retail Coupon requires an interface to Austin Energy’s Energy Efficiency Collaborative Platform. Austin Energy declared a Critical Business Need to keep the current provider during migration of …
Posting Language ..Title Approve a resolution authorizing amendments to Austin Water’s Fiscal Year 2024-2025 GoPurple pilot incentive program for alternative onsite water reuse systems and reclaimed water connections for new commercial, mixed use and multi-family developments in the total aggregate amount of $4,000,000, not to exceed $1,500,000 per project for affordable housing projects exempt from the GoPurple reuse requirements and not to exceed $500,000 per project for all other projects. Funding in the amount of $4,000,000 is available in the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Operating Budget of Austin Water. ..De Lead Department Austin Water. Fiscal Note Funding in the amount of $4,000,000 is available in the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Operating Budget of Austin Water. Prior Council Action: November 29, 2018 – City Council approved the Water Forward Plan on a 10-0 vote. December 11, 2019 – City Council voted to approve the Land Development Code Revision directing Austin Water to establish a regulatory program and an incentive program for Onsite Water Reuse Systems on first reading, on a 7-4 vote. February 13, 2020 – City Council voted to approve the Land Development Code Revision directing Austin Water to establish a regulatory program and an incentive program for Onsite Water Reuse Systems on second reading, on a 7-4 vote. December 10, 2020 - City Council approved an ordinance establishing City Code Chapter 15-13 relating to treatment, monitoring and reporting regulations for Onsite Water Reuse Systems, on a 10-0 vote. April 22, 2021 – City Council voted to initially approve the Pilot Incentive Program for Onsite Water Reuse Systems for Fiscal Year 2021 for the installation of alternative Onsite Water Reuse Systems up to a total aggregate amount of $1,000,000 and not to exceed $500,000 for each project on a 10-1 vote. September 30, 2021 - City Council voted to reauthorize the Pilot Incentive Program for Onsite Water Reuse Systems for Fiscal Year 2022 for the installation of alternative Onsite Water Reuse Systems up to a total aggregate amount of $1,000,000 and not to exceed $500,000 for each project on a 10-1 vote. September 29, 2022 - City Council voted to reauthorize the Pilot Incentive Program for Onsite Water Reuse Systems for Fiscal Year 2023 for the installation of alternative Onsite Water Reuse Systems up to a total aggregate amount of $1,000,000 and not to exceed $500,000 for each project on a 10-1 vote. March 7, 2024 - City Council voted to reauthorize …
Resource Management Commission Resolution on Austin Energy District Energy and Cooling System WHEREAS, the City of Austin established its first District Energy and Cooling system plant in 2001; and WHEREAS, this system has now expanded to seven plants around Austin, and currently shifts about 28 MW during peak demand while providing air conditioning and refrigeration at a savings to at least 73 commercial customers; and WHEREAS, this system would not have been built without Austin Energy's support; and WHEREAS, the peak load reduction from the District Energy and Cooling System lowers Austin Energy’s wholesale electricity purchase costs for all Austin Energy customers; and WHEREAS, expansion of the District Energy and Cooling system is an important strategy to save more energy and reduce carbon emissions as the new Austin Energy generation plan is implemented; and WHEREAS, a transparent understanding of the District Energy and Cooling system’s financial health is necessary to evaluate continued public investment and long-term planning; WHEREAS, Austin Energy has not released detailed information and data relevant to the financial viability of the district chilling system and the timeline by which a sale or other alternatives for the system might proceed; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Resource Management Commission recommends that the City Council: 1) Commission an audit of Austin Energy's District Energy and Cooling system to identify the drivers of its financial underperformance, assess the cost- benefit of future expansion or divestment, and to suggest potential actions Austin Energy may take to ensure its long-term financial viability; 2) Direct Austin Energy to publicly share a strategic roadmap detailing the timeline, rationale, and evaluation criteria for any planned expansion or divestment of the District Energy and Cooling system and deliver a public status report no later than September 30, 2025.
GoPurple Program A m e n d m e n t f o r A f f o r d a b l e H o u s i n g P r o j e c t s Katherine Jashinski, P.E., Supervising Engineer Resource Management Commission May 20, 2025 GoPurple Program: Expanding Water Reuse Austin City Council Adoption on March 7th 2024 Code Changes for Onsite Water Reuse and Reclaimed Water Connections Affordability Strategies for Reuse Projects New community Benefit Charge increase ($0.15 per thousand gallons) to fund Reclaimed Water System expansion and Onsite Reuse programs Go Purple | AustinTexas.gov 2 Exemptions to Code Requirements for Deeply Affordable Housing Projects A development is not required to connect to a reclaimed water line or use reclaimed water when the director of the Housing Department certifies the development is participating in a city, state, or federal program that requires: 1) A minimum of fifty percent on-site income-restricted dwelling units for 60% or lower median family income for rental units; or 2) A minimum of fifty percent on-site income-restricted dwelling units for 80% or lower median family income for ownership units. 3 Direction from Council on Incentives for Deeply Affordable Housing Projects ORDINANCE NO. 20240307-037 “The City Manager is further directed to explore the feasibility of a program to fully subsidize the cost of reclaimed connections, dual use plumbing, and on- site water reuse systems for affordable housing projects that are exempt from the requirements with the goal of implementing a program by April 1st, 2025. The funding should come from sources other than affordable housing programs.” 4 Proposing Increase in Program Cap to $1.5M for Deeply Affordable Housing Projects Incentive Eligible Costs Proposed Changes to Per Project Funding Onsite Water Reuse System Incentive (Existing Incentive) Covers the design and installation costs of a collection and treatment system and dual plumbing Increase the per project cap from $500,000 to $1,500,000 for exempt affordable housing projects Reclaimed Main Extension Cost Share (Existing Incentive) Covers the design and installation cost of public reclaimed water mains Maintain the current per project cap of $500,000 Dual Plumbing Rebate (Proposed Incentive) Covers the design and installation cost of dual plumbing in buildings for reclaimed water service Only exempt affordable housing projects would be eligible for up to $1,000,000 per project 5 Oversight and Management of Program Administration • Current City budget includes a reservation …
2024 Texas Gas Service (TGS) Rate Case Update & Gas Utility Policy Discussion Marija Norton| City Controller 2024 TGS Rate Case Timeline June 3: TGS filed application with the City of Austin (COA) and Railroad Commission (RRC) for New Rates to be effective July 8. TGS subsequently agreed to extend COA effective date of new rates to August 1. Settlement meeting. Settlement meeting. July 18: City Council suspended effective date of New Rates by 90 days. July 25: Aug. 6: Aug. 8: Discovery ends. Aug. 20: City testimony filed. Aug. 22: Settlement meeting. Aug. 27: Staff testimony filed. Aug. 29: COA Public Hearing on New Rates. Sept. 10: Rebuttal testimony filed. Sept. 19: Hearing. Sept. 26: Austin City Council denies TGS’ proposed rate increase. Oct. 30: COA deadline for final action on New Rates. Nov. 19: Commission decision. Dec. 5: Deadline for RRC action. 2 2024 TGS Rate Case Settlement Overview 3 2024 TGS Rate Case Settlement Overview 4 2024 TGS Rate Case Settlement Overview 5 Gas Utility Customer Class Counts Customer Class Residential Commercial Industrial Public Authority Texas Gas Service Atmos Energy CenterPoint Energy SiEnergy 219,806 9,971 7 341 10,710 307 2 2,274 106 1,057 1 TOTAL 230,125 11,019 2,380 1,058 6 Gas Utility Service Area - TGS 7 Gas Utility Service Area – Atmos Energy 8 Gas Utility Service Area – CenterPoint Energy 9 Gas Utility Service Area - SiEnergy 10 Important Dates – Rate Cases Atmos Energy – Settlement at Railroad Commission in March 2025 Texas Gas Service – Settlement at Railroad Commission in November 2024 CenterPoint Energy – Settlement at Railroad Commission in June 2024 SiEnergy – Settlement approved by City Council in August 2023 Typically, we see full rate cases filed every 4-5 years. If a company has filed a GRIP (Gas Reliability Infrastructure Program), they must file a full rate case within 5 1/2 years. 11 Important Dates – Franchise Agreements Texas Gas Service CenterPoint Energy Expires May 14, 2028 Expires Dec. 24, 2037 Expires Oct. 15, 2026 Expires Feb. 22, 2035 Atmos Energy SiEnergy 12 Important Dates – GRIP Filings Texas Gas Service – • Filed 2/11/2025, with original effective date of 4/12/2025 • Council approved ordinance on 3/17/2025 extending the effective date by 45 days to 5/27/2025 • Increase of $3.36 per month for Residential, $12.88 per month for Commercial, $461.83 per month for Industrial, and $25.96 per month for Public Authority …
An update – Australian Solar & Remote Inspections Resolution on Changes to Residential Rooftop Solar Rebate Program D. SASARIDIS 20 MAY 2025 Regarding - Feb 3, 2025 – Commissioners Sasaridis, Silverstein, Robbins introduce “Resolution on Changes to Residential Rooftop Solar Rebate Program” – discussed proposed changes to policy, inspection, for both solar and batteries. Today – Providing some requested updates about solar inspections and Australian Solar Update – Australia Research I emailed 12 large Australian solar providers – got no responses. I called 9 Australian solar providers, and obtained the following information: Solarbright.com.au: • • When asked why he thought Australia’s solar adoption was so far ahead of the USA, he noted: Spoke with Nicholas • • • Incentives (did not say how much) High energy prices driving up demand Inspections are not mandatory – regulatory has relaxed over the years – large driver • I asked about costs, if $1 USD per watt was realistic, Nicholas said: • • That’s high, $0.50 USD per watt is common He sells 5 kW systems for ($3,500 AUD) $2,250 USD Solar Power Direct: • • When asked why he thought Australia’s solar adoption was so far ahead of the USA, he noted: Spoke with Adrian • • Electricity rates high, return on investment Incentives, 6.6 kW system would net $2k direct to the installer, some discount passed along to • • I asked about costs: • • • He thought $1 / W AUD ($0.64 / W USD) is realistic He would sell a 6.6 kW system for $3,520 USD He pays about $115 USD for a 450 W panel ($0.25 / W) Regarding Inspections: • Rely on the regulatory landscape for the components, with random inspections Update – Remote Inspections in Texas Utilities – two largest in TX Municipalities in TX Oncor CenterPoint Fort Worth – Ongoing now 15 other Texas cities implementing in the future A remote inspection standard exists! Considering for the future Remote Inspections happening now
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION May 20, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. City of Austin, Permitting & Development Center, Room 1406 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the Asian American Quality of Life 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 Ryan Sperling at (512) 974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Hanna Huang, Chair Sarah Chen Zachary Dolling Hugh Li Pierre Nguyễn Alpha Shrestha Seonhye “Sonny” Sin Kuo Yang CALL TO ORDER Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Sarah Xiyi Chen Hailey Easley Ahmed Moledina Sabrina Sha Nayer Siker Nirali Thakkar AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on April 15, 2025. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Briefing regarding the strategic plan for the new Office of Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment. Briefing by Angela Means; Director; Office of Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion regarding the progress and impact of 2025 Texas Legislative Session bills affecting Joint Inclusion Committee member commissions. 4. Discussion regarding updates and invitation lists for the July meeting between local Asian American leaders and the City Manager’s Office. 5. Discussion regarding how the commission can advocate for and track progress on approved recommendations. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Discussion and possible action to update the membership of the Budget Engagement, Asian American Resource Center, and City Manager’s Office Meeting working groups. 7. Discussion and possible action to form a working group to develop a framework for commission certificates or awards for members of the public. 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 …
ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES April 15, 2025 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on April 15, 2025, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Huang called the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hanna Huang (Chair) Padmini Jambulapati (Vice Chair) Zachary Dolling Pierre Nguyễn Seonhye “Sonny” Sin Sarah Xiyi Chen Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Sarah Chen Hailey Easley Alpha Shrestha Nayer Sikder Nirali Thakkar PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on March 18, 2025. The minutes of the March 18, 2025 regular meeting were approved with an amendment to correct spelling on Commissioners Sikder’s and Sin’s names on Commissioner Sin’ motion, Commissioner Xiyi Chen’s second on a 11-0 vote. Commissioners Li, Moledina, Sha, and Yang were absent. STAFF BRIEFING 1 2. Briefing from the Transportation Department about the Cameron Road/Dessau Road Safety Project’s potential construction impacts. Briefing by Mary Vo, Program Manager II, Transportation and Public Works Department. Briefing provided by Mary Vo, Program Manager II, Transportation and Public Works Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation regarding Central Health’s engagement of Austin’s Asian American Community and health outcomes. Presentation by Dr. Patrick Lee, CEO, Central Health. Presentation by Dr. Patrick Lee, CEO, Central Health. 4. Discussion regarding budget recommendations approved by the Joint Inclusion Committee. Discussion was held. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Conduct officer elections for Chair and Vice Chair. Commissioner Sin was elected as Chair on Chair Huang’s motion, Commissioner Nguyen’s second on a 11-0 vote. Commissioners Li, Moledina, Sha, and Yang were absent. Vice Chair Jambulapati was elected as Vice Chair on Commissioner Sin’s motion, Commissioner X Chen’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioners Li, Moledina, Sha, and Yang were absent. 6. Nominate a commissioner to serve as the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission’s primary representative on the Joint Inclusion Committee. Commissioner Thakkar was nominated as the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission’s primary representative on the Joint Inclusion Committee on Commissioner Nguyễn’s motion, Commissioner Thakkar’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioners Li, Moledina, Sha, and Yang were absent. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 7. Update from the Working Group to plan for meetings between Austin’s Asian American and Pacific Islander community leaders and the City …
Office of Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission May 20, 2025 Angela Means, Director Effective February 24, 2025, the City of Austin officially established the Office of Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment (ACME). This marks a significant step in Austin’s commitment to building a more vibrant and dynamic destination for arts, culture, music, and entertainment. 2 HOW WILL ACME BENEFIT OUR COMMUNITY? • Provide centralized support for creatives and cultural organizations. • Enhance economic growth, tourism and civic engagement. • Foster collaboration between artists, cultural organizations, and local businesses. • Create open, accessible spaces for residents to experience arts and culture. • Strengthens Austin’s identity as a global destination for creativity. 3 HOW WAS ACME FORMED? Economic Development Department Cultural Arts Arts in Public Places Music & Entertainment Parks & Recreation Department Museum & Cultural Programs Historic Tourism Special Events (Partial) Development Services Department Austin Center for Events Entertainment Services Austin Public Library Aviation African American Heritage & Cultural Facility Music & Art 4 Office of Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment (ACME) Functional Organizational Chart 5 WHAT ARE ACME’S 2025 GOALS? • Streamline operations • Implement community engagement programs • Launch the development of a comprehensive Strategic Plan • Reevaluation of Cultural Funding grant program guidelines, process, etc. • Increase access to programming • Establish new collaborative partnerships with the community and partners across various sectors 6 6 WHAT IS INCLUDED IN ACME’s STRATEGIC PLAN? Community Engagement & Participation Creative Economy Growth Access & Enjoyment for All Sense of Place & Shared Storytelling Sustainable Infrastructure & Investment 7 HOW WILL ACME EXPLORE AND LEVERAGE FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES? Grants and Sponsorships Private Sector Tap into local, state, and federal funding to support arts initiatives Seek partnerships with businesses and organizations to secure sponsorships for programs and events Engage with the private sector for donations, corporate sponsorships, and philanthropic contributions Crowdfunding & Fundraising Use crowdfunding platforms to finance specific cultural projects Organize fundraising events to raise awareness and funds for future programs 8 WHAT IS THE TIMELINE TO FULLY INTEGRATE ACME? Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3 • Planning & Development • Growth & Expansion • Launch Programs • Establish Community Presence 9 ACME is committed to Building a Collaborative, Vibrant City. 10 10 Office of Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment ACME@austintexas.gov 512-974-1624 Amplifying Austin’s Creative Spirit 11
Introduction & Overview: Office of Equity and Inclusion Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Presentation Tuesday, May 20, 2025, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Agenda Introductions i. ii. The Office of Equity and Inclusion Vision iii. Office Overview a. Mission b. Functions c. Community Impact d. Ways to Connect 5/19/2025 2 Dr. Lindsey Wilson Director Office of Equity and Inclusion Shafina Khaki Human Rights Officer Office of Equity and Inclusion 3 OUR VISION: The vision for the Office of Equity and Inclusion is to help shape a community and city government where every individual feels welcomed and has the resources and services they need to thrive. We’re dedicated to transforming systems to increase access, remove barriers to opportunity, address discrimination, and foster a community where all identities are respected. 5/19/2025 4 Office of Equity and Inclusion (OEI) OEI Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director Civil Rights Division Equity Division Human Rights Division Recruiting, Civil Rights Officer Vacant, Equity Officer Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer 5/19/2025 5 Thank you! Office of Equity & Inclusion | AustinTexas.gov
M E M O R A N D U M TO: Mayor and City Council THROUGH: Jon Fortune, Deputy City Manager FROM: Stuart Reilly, Interim General Manager, Austin Energy DATE: May 15, 2025 SUBJECT: District Energy and Cooling System Review ____________ The purpose of this memorandum is to provide an update on Austin Energy’s District Energy and Cooling (DEC) system and inform you of an upcoming review of potential options for the system to grow and effectively meet new development needs in the future. The driver for this DEC system review is finding innovative ways to achieve the best environmental outcomes for our community and serve new customers. BACKGROUND The DEC system was established in FY 2001 to shift electric load off-peak and to provide an energy efficient alternative to traditional air conditioning systems in suitable areas. Instead of each building having a separate cooling system, DEC chills water at night and pumps this water through a network of underground pipes to cool large buildings. The DEC system is a valuable resource to the Austin community because it uses energy at night to chill water that is used for cooling during the heat of the day, which shifts energy usage to lower demand times and reduces the peak demand needs of Austin Energy. Fostering growth of the DEC system therefore reduces the need for additional summer peak generation needed to support customers. The DEC system operates in four districts, downtown, the Domain, ACC Highland, and Mueller, serving 73 customers under contract. It provides environmental benefits by being an alternative to individual air conditioning systems and is an attractive option for developers seeking to make the most of their buildable square footage, while receiving an efficient and reliable way to meet their cooling needs. With the rapid pace of growth in Austin, the DEC system is in need of expansion in order to meet customer needs or risk continued new development that is not capable of coming online to receive district cooling service. As such, Austin Energy has proposed looking at ways the system can grow and flourish, providing more environmental benefits, and more energy efficiency benefits, and continuing to reduce our summer peak demand needs – enhancing sustainability and affordability for all customers. PAGE: DATE: SUBJECT: 2 of 2 May 15, 2025 District Energy & Cooling System Review UPCOMING ASSESSMENT Following City Council feedback from last year, Austin Energy recognized …
2024 Texas Gas Service (TGS) Rate Case Update & Gas Utility Policy Discussion Marija Norton| City Controller 2024 TGS Rate Case Timeline June 3: TGS filed application with the City of Austin (COA) and Railroad Commission (RRC) for New Rates to be effective July 8. TGS subsequently agreed to extend COA effective date of new rates to August 1. Settlement meeting. Settlement meeting. July 18: City Council suspended effective date of New Rates by 90 days. July 25: Aug. 6: Aug. 8: Discovery ends. Aug. 20: City testimony filed. Aug. 22: Settlement meeting. Aug. 27: Staff testimony filed. Aug. 29: COA Public Hearing on New Rates. Sept. 10: Rebuttal testimony filed. Sept. 19: Hearing. Sept. 26: Austin City Council denies TGS’ proposed rate increase. Oct. 30: COA deadline for final action on New Rates. Nov. 19: Commission decision. Dec. 5: Deadline for RRC action. 2 2024 TGS Rate Case Settlement Overview 3 2024 TGS Rate Case Settlement Overview 4 2024 TGS Rate Case Settlement Overview 5 Gas Utility Customer Class Counts Customer Class Residential Commercial Industrial Public Authority Texas Gas Service Atmos Energy CenterPoint Energy SiEnergy 219,806 9,971 7 341 10,710 307 2 2,274 106 TOTAL 230,125 11,019 2,380 303 1 1 305 6 Gas Utility Service Area - TGS 7 Gas Utility Service Area – Atmos Energy 8 Gas Utility Service Area – CenterPoint Energy 9 Gas Utility Service Area - SiEnergy 10 Important Dates – Rate Cases Atmos Energy – Settlement at Railroad Commission in March 2025 Texas Gas Service – Settlement at Railroad Commission in November 2024 CenterPoint Energy – Settlement at Railroad Commission in June 2024 SiEnergy – Settlement approved by City Council in August 2023 Typically, we see full rate cases filed every 4-5 years. If a company has filed a GRIP (Gas Reliability Infrastructure Program), they must file a full rate case within 5 1/2 years. 11 Important Dates – Franchise Agreements Texas Gas Service CenterPoint Energy Expires May 14, 2028 Expires Dec. 24, 2037 Expires Oct. 15, 2026 Expires Feb. 22, 2035 Atmos Energy SiEnergy 12 Important Dates – Gas Reliability Infrastructure Program (GRIP) Filings Texas Gas Service – • Filed 2/11/2025, with original effective date of 4/12/2025 • Council approved ordinance on 3/17/2025 extending the effective date by 45 days to 5/27/2025 • Increase of $3.36 per month for Residential, $12.88 per month for Commercial, $461.83 per month for Industrial, and $25.96 …
Austin Resource Management Commission Anthony Brown, Manager of Rates and Regulatory Bryan Weeks, Director of Engineering May 20, 2025 Natural Gas Serves Every Area of the Economy Source: Energy Information Administration, Monthly Energy Review, 2024 2 Third-largest Natural Gas Utility in Texas Committed to Texans • Serves 706,000 Texans • Available in 111 communities • Employs over 1,000 Texans • Economic impact of nearly $137M in 2024 • Charitable giving: $524,335 in 2024 We've delivered reliable, affordable natural gas to our customers since 1906 3 Cities in the Central-Gulf Service Area • Austin • Dripping Springs • Lakeway • Port Arthur • Bastrop Rural • Galveston • Lockhart • Port Neches • Bayou Vista • Georgetown • Luling • Rollingwood • Beaumont • Gonzales • Marble Falls • Shiner • Bee Cave • Groves • Mustang Ridge • Sunset Valley • Buda • Hutto • Nederland • Westlake Hills • Cedar Park • Jamaica Beach • Nixon • Yoakum • Cuero • Kyle • Pflugerville 4 Mission, Strategy and Core Values Mission – Why we exist We deliver natural gas for a better tomorrow Strategy – How we get there • Safe Operations • Capital Investments • Delivering Foundational Energy • Serving Customers • Engaged & High-performing Workforce Core Values – Our compass Safety: We are committed to operating safely and in an environmentally responsible manner. Ethics: We are accountable to the highest ethical standards and are committed to compliance. Inclusion & Diversity: We embrace an inclusive and diverse culture that encourages collaboration. Service: We provide exceptional service to our customers and support each other. Value: We create value for all stakeholders; our customers, employees, investor and communities. 5 Committed to Safety & Reliable Service • Work When Safe philosophy • Following guidelines set forth by state and federal agencies • Investing in damage prevention technology ▪ Line locating ▪ Leak detection • Reliable service ▪ No significant outages during Winter Storms Uri (2021), Elliott (2022), Mara (2023), Geri (2024) and Kingston (2025) despite frigid temperatures 6 Austin System Maps 7 Consumer Price Index (CPI) Inflation Rate 10.0 Austin, TX CPI Inflation Rate U.S. General Inflation Rate 8.0 6.0 4.0 2.0 0.0 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 8 Labor Inflation Rate 10.0 U.S. Labor Inflation Rate Austin, TX Labor Inflation Rate 8.0 6.0 4.0 2.0 0.0 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 …
Gas Utility Briefing Resource Management Commission Paul Robbins March 25, 2025 Texas Gas Service: $342 Million, 63% Plant Cost Increase in Only 4 Years But 5% Increase in Customers in Only 4 Years Unlike Austin Energy and Austin Water, City Council Was Not Allowed in Decisions on Whether to Allocate This Money $185 Million in New Infrastructure in 4 Years $4 Million in Developer Construction Fees Only 2% Collected From Capital Recovery Fees ( aka Contribution to Aid in Construction) Central Texas Region Galveston Region Central Texas Region and Galveston Region Combined for Rates Over Austin’s Objections
ZONING AND PLATTING COMMISION REGULAR CALLED MEETING TUESDAY, MAY 20, 2025 The Zoning and Platting convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001, 301 W. Second Street, in Austin, Texas. Chair Smith called the Zoning and Platting Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Hank Smith Betsy Greenberg Luis Osta Lugo Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Scott Boone Alejandra Flores David Fouts Taylor Major Lonny Stern Christian Tschoepe Board Members/Commissioners Absent: Felix De Portu Ryan Puzycki PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Zoning and Platting Commission regular meeting on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of Tuesday, May 6, 2025, were approved on the consent agenda on Commissioner Osta Lugo’s motion, Vice Chair Greenberg’s second, on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners De Portu and Puzycki were absent. 1 PUBLIC HEARINGS 2. Rezoning: C14-94-0167.01 - 6500 River Place PDA Amendment #1; District 10 6500 River Place Boulevard, Panther Hollow, Lake Travis Watersheds Location: Owner/Applicant: G&I VII River Place, LP Agent: Request: Staff Rec.: Staff: Drenner Group, PC (David J. Anderson) R&D-PDA to R&D-PDA, to change a condition of zoning Staff Request for Postponement to June 3, 2025 Sherri Sirwaitis, 512-974-3057, sherri.sirwaitis@austintexas.gov Planning Department The motion to approve Staff’s postponment request to June 3, 2025, was approved on the consent agenda on Commissioner Osta Lugo’s motion, Vice Chair Greenberg’s second, on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners De Portu and Puzycki were absent. 3. Rezoning: Location: C14-2025-0037 - City Initiated Rezoning of John Treviño Jr. Metropolitan Park to Public 9501 FM 969 Road, Colorado River, Walnut Creek, Elm Creek Watersheds Owner/Applicant: City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department Agent: Request: Staff Rec.: Staff: City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department (Ricardo Soliz) I-RR and SF-3 to P Recommended Beverly Villela, 512-978-0740, beverly.villela@austintexas.gov Planning Department The motion to approve Staff’s recommendation of P for C14-2025-0037 - City Initiated Rezoning of John Treviño Jr. Metropolitan Park to Public, located at 9501 FM 969 Road, Colorado River, was approved on the consent agenda on Commissioner Osta Lugo’s motion, Vice Chair Greenberg’s second, on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners De Portu and Puzycki were absent. 4. EV Variance: Location: Owner/Applicant: Travis County Facilities Corp, Zekelman Property II LLC, Zekelman SP-2024-0298D - Flatz - 130 7400 Zekelman Blvd, Decker Creek Agent: Request: Staff Rec.: Staff: Property III LLC …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MAY 19, 2025 – 6:00 PM PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1407 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TX 78752 Some members of the Parks and Recreation Board may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. For remote participation, registration must be completed no later than noon the day before the meeting. To register to speak, click here: https://forms.office.com/g/3UtQYxPm15 or call or email Tim Dombeck, (512) 974- 6716, Tim.Dombeck@austintexas.gov. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and may be allowed up to three (3) minutes to provide their comments. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Stephanie Bazan (D-5), Chair Kathryn Flowers (D-4), Vice Chair Shelby Orme (D-1) Pedro Villalobos (D-2) CALL TO ORDER Nicole Merritt (D-3) Luai Abou-Emara (D-6) Diane Kearns-Osterweil (D-7) Kim Taylor (D-8) Jennifer Franklin (D-9) Ted Eubanks (D-10) Lane Becker (Mayor) PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of April 28, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for the PARD Nature Play program. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) (PARD Long Range Strategies: Park Access for All, Urban Public Spaces). Presenter(s): Christine Chute Canul, Partnership Coordinator, Melody Alcazar, Program Manager, Lindsey Machamer, Project Management Supervisor, Parks and Recreation Department. Presentation, discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council that the Lakeshore PUD Amendment Development application is superior with respect to parkland dedication. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) (PARD Long Range Strategies: Relief from Urban Life, Park Access for All). Presenter(s): Robynne Heymans, Principal Planner, Parks and Recreation Department. Presentation, discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council that the 500 S Congress PUD Development application is superior with respect to parkland dedication. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) (PARD Long Range Strategies: Relief from Urban Life, Park Access for All). Presenter(s): Robynne Heymans, Principal Planner, Parks and Recreation Department. Page 1 of 2 5. 6. Discussion and approve an appointment to the vacant seat on the Parks and Recreation Board Contracts and Concession Committee. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) Discussion and approve a nomination to the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) DISCUSSION …
