Board of Adjustment Deep Dive: Key Topics & Issues Development Services Department February 22, 2024 1 Agenda ● General Background & History of BOA ● Core BOA functions & requirements: Variances Special Exceptions Appeals BOA Process Issues ● Boat Docks ● Environmental & Lake/Shoreline Presentations ● Residential Review 2 …..but first, introductions: BOA Members Thomas Ates Jessica Cohen Melissa Hawthorne Brian Poteet Marcel Gutierrez-Garza Margaret Shahrestani Jeffery Bowen Janel Venzant Michael Von Ohlen Yung-ju Kim Kelly Blume (Alternate) Suzanne Valentine (Alternate) City Staff Keith Mars Brent Lloyd Chris Johnson Elaine Ramirez Diana Ramirez Lyndi Garwood Alex Creel Mike Peralta John Clement Clarissa Davis 3 • • Zoning Boards of Adjustment Included in the 1929 model “state zoning enabling act,” promulgated by U.S. Dept. of Commerce. Intended to provide greater flexibility by authorizing “variation” of zoning regulations and provide administrative oversight. • Unlike municipal planning/zoning commissions, which performs a mix of advisory and decision-making functions, all BOA functions are quasi-judicial. 4 Austin’s Board of Adjustment • Austin’s BOA established by 1931 zoning ordinance: 5 Zoning Variances 6 Zoning Variance Criteria per Land Development Code Findings for Approval Guidelines No Reasonable Use The requirement does not allow for a reasonable use of property. Determined by context. Landowner needn’t prove a “taking” (i.e., loss of all economically viable use), but desire for “highest & best” use is insufficient. Harship Area Character Harship is unique to the property and is not generally characteristic of the area in which the property is located. Typically involves features of the property itself, but overall context of development may also be considered. Development under the variance does not: (a) alter the character of the area adjacent to the property; (b) impair the use of adjacent property; or (c) impair the purposes of the applicable zoning district regulations. Considers how development allowed by variance would impact properties differently than development without a variance, as well as well as development patterns in the surround area and goals of the regulations 7 Variance Standard per State Law Per Chapter 211 of the Local Government Code, a board of adjustment may: “[A]uthorize in specific cases a variance from the terms of a zoning ordinance if the variance is not contrary to the public interest and, due to special conditions, a literal enforcement of the ordinance would result in unnecessary hardship, and so that the spirit of the …
Residential Review at the City of Austin BOA Training February 22, 2024 Building a Better Austin Together TOPICS • What Residential Plan Review permits • Zoning Review • What can be built? • Red Flags • Expired Permits • Permit Requirements • Special Exemptions • Substandard Lots • Fences as Accessory Uses • Q&A Building a Better Austin Together 2 Residential Overview We permit residential building types that fall under the International Residential Code (IRC) and their accessory structures. b. a. One- and two-family dwelling units no more than (3) stories above grade Townhouses that are no more than (3) stories above grade and don’t have overlapping units Pools c. d. Garages & carports e. New Construction, Additions, Interior Remodels, Garage Conversion, Patio Enclosure, Fences Building a Better Austin Together 3 Zoning Review 1. Zoning a. Common classifications i. ii. iii. iv. v. LA RR DR SF-1, SF-2, SF-3, SF-4A, SF- 5, SF-6 MF b. (+/- 60) neighborhood plans c. (6) NCCD’s d. Conditional Overlays e. Subchapter F f. PUDs g. Driveway & Sidewalk h. Parking i. Use i. ii. iii. iv. Single family Two family Duplex Accessory Uses Building a Better Austin Together 4 What can be built? • Depends on the zoning classification and the existing conditions – Refer to LDC 25-2-492 Building Coverage Impervious Coverage Setbacks Building Height a. b. c. d. e. Minimum Lot Size (length/width) f. Floor to Area Ratio (FAR – Subchapter F) • How to find a property’s • zoning: http://www.austintexas.gov/gis/pro pertyprofile/ Building a Better Austin Together 5 Red Flags Unpermitted work needs to be permitted and is to be included with the proposed scope of work. 1. Converted garage 2. Windows &/or the interior does not match the age of the house 3. No permit found Building a Better Austin Together 6 Expired Permits • • • • If solely a remodel or stand alone trade permit before March 2007, the permits can be voided Can be reactivated if they have not been reactivated in the past If previously received a reactivation, a review of the project will need to be conducted before reactivation Age of permit might qualify for a life safety inspection once reactivated Building a Better Austin Together 7 PERMIT REQUIREMENTS Expired Permits • • Work done w/o permit • Forms • Application • Austin Energy & Austin Water intake forms Total Demo Permit application • Drawings • • …
Environmental Considerations for Austin’s Lakes Presented to: Board of Adjustment February 22, 2024 John Clement, Environmental Conservation Program Manager LAKE AUSTIN - Finding the Balance • Drinking Water • Residential • Commercial • Boating/Marina • Parkland • Fishing • Passive Recreation Environmental Issues Zebra Mussels Bank Erosion Shoreline Erosion Poor Shoreline Habitat Non-Complying Structures Compliance/Work Without Permits Wave Impacts Riparian Zone Functions A robust shoreline vegetative community improves water quality, prevents erosion, and aids in flood control. Trees & deep-rooted plants prevent erosion. Dense shoreline development degrades shoreline health. Poor Riparian Function VS Good Riparian Function Poor Functioning Good Functioning Costs of Degraded Water Quality ▪ Water treatment costs due to suspended sediment ▪ Algae proliferations ▪ Poor fishery ▪ Lowered Austin Lake Index scores in ▪ Habitat ▪ Invertebrates ▪ Vegetation Environmental Review • Site plan & Subdivision compliance with LDC 25-8 Subchapter A • Boat docks/shoreline modifications/shoreline access require site plans • DSD environmental review staff • CWQZ compliance • Erosion controls • Restoration • Cut/Fill • WPD environmental review staff • CEF setbacks • Bulkheads • Dredging • Land capture/fill in the lake • Floodplain modifications & restoration (riparian functioning) § 25-8-261 Critical Water Quality Zone Trams Stairs CWQZ on all Lakes: - 75’ from shoreline (492.8 msl) for single family - 100’ for all other uses (1) A dock, bulkhead or marina, and necessary access and appurtenances, are permitted in a critical water quality zone subject to compliance with Chapter 25-2, Subchapter C, Article 12 (Docks, Bulkheads, and Shoreline Access) Gangways § 25-8-281(C) Critical Environmental Features Canyon Rimrock and 150’ CEF Buffer Canyon Rimrock Wetland Seep Spring 25-8-652 – Restrictions on Development Impacting Lakes Unpermitted fill in Lake (A) The requirements of this section apply to development on or adjacent to Lake Austin, Lady Bird Lake, or Lake Walter E. Long. (B) Except as otherwise provided by this section, placing fill or dredging in a lake is prohibited. (C) A retaining wall, bulkhead, or other erosion protection device may not capture or recapture land from a lake unless doing so is required to restore the shoreline to whichever of the following boundaries would encroach the least into the lake: (1) the shoreline as it existed 10 years prior to the date of application, with documentation as prescribed by the Environmental Criteria Manual; or (2) the lakeside boundary of the subdivided lot line. (D) A bulkhead may …
Site Plan Review for Boat Docks What Site Plan reviews… • Site information - Zoning and use - Plat - Size of the lot • Setbacks - 10’ from adjacent property line - 75’ or 25’ if platted prior to April 22, 1982 or lot less than 200’ deep. - bulkhead, retaining wall, dock, non-mechanized pedestrian access facility, or marina Structure Information • Square footage - A maximum of 1,200 sq. ft. • Dock height – 30 ft. • Extension into the lake – 30 ft. • Navigational safety light at furthest extension • Maximum of 20% of the shoreline in width • Allowed up to 2 motorboats • Must be at least 66% open on all sides. • Allowed 48 sq. ft. of storage space. • Cluster docks allowed 600 sq. ft. for each unit Non-complying Structures • Removal of no more than 50% of walls and • Replacement or repair of structural elements supporting structures including framing. • Damaged or destroyed structures may be restore a non-complying dock to its original footprint within 12 months - Evidence of original foot print - Insurance claim for structure Thank You! Clarissa Davis Clarissa.Davis@austinrtexas.gov (512)974-1423
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT SPECIAL CALLED MEETING – Training Session BOARDS AND COMMISSION ROOM 1101 MINUTES Thursday, February 22, 2024 The BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT convened in a Special Called Meeting – Training Session on Thursday, February 22, 2024, at 301 West 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Jessica Cohen called the Board of Adjustment Meeting to order at 1:15 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance in-Person: Jessica Cohen-Chair, Melissa Hawthorne-Vice Chair, Jeffery Bowen, Marcel Gutierrez-Garza, Brian Poteet, Michael Von Ohlen Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Maggie Shahrestani, Yung-ju Kim Board Member/Commissioners absent: Thomas Ates, Janel Venzant, Kelly Blume (Alternate) and Suzanne Valentine (Alternate) Some members of the BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT may be participating by videoconference. No actions or votes will be taken. 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 email elaine.ramirez@austintexas.gov or call 512-974-2202. remote participation by telephone. To remotely, register speak to CALL TO ORDER 1:15 PM TRAINING SESSION Board of Adjustment Deep Dive: Key Topics & Issues 1. Overview -Brent Lloyd (BOA) General Background The history of BOAs & their role in zoning Creation of Austin’s BOA What BOAs do: Variances Special Exceptions Appeals Variances: Criteria for Approval & Other Considerations What constitutes a “hardship”? When is a property deprived of “reasonable use”? What does it mean to alter “area character? Variance conditions – what are they for and when are they appropriate? New state legislation affecting BOA variance criteria? Special Exceptions What are they, and how are they different from variances? Austin’s use of special exceptions? Administrative Appeals What’s an appeal, and how is it different than a variance or exception? Considerations unique to appeals. 2. Issues Specific to Residential Review -Alex Creel and Mike Peralta (Residential Review) Subchapter F (Residential Design & Compatibility) Special Exceptions Other issues 3. Environmental & Lake Austin Issues -John Clement (WPD) Lake Austin Regulations Heritage Tree Issues Related topics 4. Boat Docks & Compatibility- Clarissa Davis (LUR) ADJOURNMENT 3:30PM The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications …
6. 7. HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION PRESERVATION PLAN COMMITTEE Wednesday, February 21, 2024 – 11:00 A.M. Permitting and Development Center, Room 1203 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the committee may participate 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 the board liaison at (512) 974-3393 or preservation@austintexas.gov. COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Raymond Castillo, Chair Tara Dudley Ben Heimsath AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 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 December 7, 2022 September 20, 2023 October 25, 2023 November 15, 2023 January 17, 2024 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. DISCUSSION ITEMS Feb. 13 community kickoff recap and discussion Discussion of Nuts & Bolts Open House (March), Block Party (April), and Preservation & Friends event (May) Review of other outreach and engagement around the draft Equity-Based Preservation Plan FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call the board liaison at the Historic Preservation Office at (512) 974-3393 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Preservation Plan Committee, please contact Cara Bertron at (512) 974-1446. 8.
REGULAR MEETING of the PRESERVATION PLAN COMMITTEE of the HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7 – 11:00 A.M. STREET-JONES BUILDING, ROOM 200A 1000 E. 11TH STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 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 the board liaison at (512) 974-3393 or preservation@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS: ___X X X ___X Beth Valenzuela, Chair Harmony Grogan Ben Heimsath Carl Larosche DRAFT MINUTES CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 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 October 18, 2022 November 15, 2022 1. 2. MOTION: Minutes approved on a motion by Heimsath, Valenzuela seconding. Vote: 4-0 DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Awareness campaign (#1) update Toolkit shared with organizational partners, Historic Landmark Commission, and Includes flyers, newsletter text, social media graphics in digital toolkit Preservation Plan Working Group; 15+ newsletter shares or confirmations 2,300+ website views to date 4. Draft plan language 5. Change “Engage and empower communities” to “Engage communities equitably” Commissioners provided feedback on equity questions Working group stakeholder representation Commissioners recommended adding the following stakeholder types to the Preservation Plan Working Group for phase 2, where possible: attorney, contractor, developer, economic development organization, heritage tourism professional, landscape architect, social justice organization representative or member, urban planner, environmental sustainability professional or advocate 6. Draft plan website Commissioners reviewed the draft plan website FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call the board liaison at the Historic Preservation Office at (512) 974-3393 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Preservation Plan Committee, please contact Cara Bertron at (512) 974-1446.
5. HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION PRESERVATION PLAN COMMITTEE Wednesday, January 17 – 11:00 A.M. Permitting and Development Center, Room 1203 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the committee may participate 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 the board liaison at (512) 974-3393 or preservation@austintexas.gov. COMMITTEE MEMBERS: X abs X Raymond Castillo, Chair Tara Dudley Ben Heimsath DRAFT MINUTES CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No public communication. APPROVAL OF MINUTES December 7, 2022 September 20, 2023 October 25, 2023 1. 2. 3. No action taken. 4. MOTION: Approve meeting minutes on a motion by Castillo, Heimsath seconding. Vote: 2- 0 DISCUSSION ITEMS November 15, 2023 Community Ambassadors and Mini-Grant Partner Organizations Ten community ambassadors selected Five Partner Organizations selected: Anderson Community Development Corporation, Creative Action, East Austin Conservancy, Taiwanese American Professionals – Austin Chapter, Tomorrow’s Promise Foundation Public release of the Equity-Based Preservation Plan Draft plan will be released on Feb. 6 Update Historic Landmark Commission members via Feb. 7 briefing and preservation plan newsletter Make Commission involvement clear in outward-facing communication Launch event Community kickoff event on Feb. 13 Future outreach and engagement around the draft plan Offer commissioners the opportunity to co-present with staff Request that Preservation Austin underrepresented heritage interns brief the full Commission on their work in May When meeting with Council members’ offices about the draft (late summer), invite commissioners FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Commission Commissioners noted that they would like to discuss a budget recommendation for the ADJOURNMENT MOTION: Adjourn on a motion by Castillo, Heimsath seconding. Vote: 2-0 The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call the board liaison at the Historic Preservation Office at (512) 974-3393 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas …
3. 4. REGULAR MEETING of the PRESERVATION PLAN COMMITTEE of the HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2023 – 11:00 A.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1203 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR. AUSTIN, TEXAS 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 the board liaison at (512) 974-3393 or preservation@austintexas.gov. Raymond Castillo CURRENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS: ___x __abs Tara Dudley ___x Ben Heimsath DRAFT MINUTES CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No public communication. APPROVAL OF MINUTES December 7, 2022 September 20, 2023 1. 2. No action taken on minutes. DISCUSSION ITEMS Selection of committee chair Commissioner Castillo selected as chair Stakeholder groups for preservation plan Review stakeholder groups, drawn from Preservation Plan Working Group Discuss priority groups as proposed in the public engagement plan (see item #5) stakeholder categories Public engagement plan outline Review and discuss plan outline Staff will share comments with the engagement consultant Preservation Equity Analysis overview Staff provided a summary of the Preservation Equity Analysis goals The analysis is anticipated to be completed in early 2024 Results will be shared via community outreach and engagement around the draft plan Potential topics for background summaries Not discussed. Timing for Commission updates on the plan Provide updates monthly as part of Committee Reports Brief full Commission upon draft plan release in February 2024 FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call the board liaison at the Historic Preservation Office at (512) 974-3393 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Preservation Plan Committee, please contact Cara Bertron at (512) 974-1446. 5. 6. 7. 8.
2. 3. REGULAR MEETING of the PRESERVATION PLAN COMMITTEE of the HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2023 – 11:00 A.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1203 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR. AUSTIN, TEXAS 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 the board liaison at (512) 974-3393 or preservation@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS: ___x ___x Raymond Castillo Tara Dudley __abs Harmony Grogan DRAFT MINUTES CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 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 January 18, 2023 1. MOTION: Minutes approved on a motion by Commissioner Castillo, Commissioner Dudley seconding. Vote: 2-0. DISCUSSION ITEMS Overview of community engagement to date Digital toolkit for social media and organization newsletters Available since fall 2022 Community engagement consultant update: Scope of work and selection Review scope of work Discuss consultant responses and selection process Concept Development & Planning, LLC (CD&P) selected Next steps with community engagement Collaborate with CD&P on public engagement plan Develop community ambassador and mini-grant applications and selection process Selection of committee chair No action taken on committee chair selection. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call the board liaison at the Historic Preservation Office at (512) 974-3393 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Preservation Plan Committee, please contact Cara Bertron at (512) 974-1446. 4. 5.
Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission February 21, 2024 at 6:00 PM Permitting And Development Center, Events Center, Room 1405 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Environmental Commission will 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 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 Elizabeth Funk, Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov no later than noon, the day before the meeting. The following information is required: speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, email address and telephone number (must be the same number that will be used to call into the meeting). CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Haris Qureshi Peter Einhorn Mariana Krueger Melinda Schiera Hanna Cofer AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Colin Nickells Jennifer Bristol, Secretary Kevin Ramberg, Chair David Sullivan Richard Brimer Perry Bedford, Vice Chair 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. 1 APPROVAL OF MINUTES DISCUSSION ITEMS Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on February 7, 2024 Presentation of Development Assessment Report for 500 South Congress, located at 500 South Congress Avenue, CD-2023-0001 (District 9). Applicant: Richard T. Suttle, Armbrust & Brown, PLLC. Staff: Sherri Sirwaitis, Planning Department, and Leslie Lilly, Environmental Program Manager, Watershed Protection Department Presentation on the status of Austin Light Rail. Presenters: Jen Pyne, Executive Vice President Planning, Community & Federal Programs, Lisa Storer, Sustainable Design Program Manager, and Yannis Banks, Public Involvement Manager (Austin Transit Partnership) WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES Update from the Urban Forestry Committee – Richard Brimer (Committee Chair), Mariana Krueger, Colin Nickells, and Melinda Schiera Update from the Joint Sustainability Committee – Haris Qureshi (member) and Richard Brimer (alternate member) Update from the Balcones Canyonlands Conservation Plan Citizen’s Advisory Committee – Jennifer Bristol Update from the Joint Committee of the Environmental Commission and Parks and Recreation Board – Perry Bedford, Hanna Cofer, Haris Qureshi, and Kevin Ramberg Update from the South Central …
Austin Light Rail Update Environmental Commission 1 FEBRUARY 21, 2024 PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION & INTEGRATED APPROACH WORK EFFORTS SCOPING 22 Upcoming Public Outreach Federal Process: NEPA MEETING LOCATION DATE/TIME University of Texas, Eastwoods Room, 2nd floor (ground level), Texas Union 2308 Whitis Ave, Austin, TX 78712 Thursday, February 1, 2024 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Montopolis Recreation and Community Center 1200 Montopolis Dr., Austin, TX 78741 Saturday, February 10, 2024 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. League of Women Voters, Cafetorium 3908 Avenue B, Suite 105, Austin, TX 78751 Virtual Open House Twin Oaks Library, Rooms 1 & 2 1800 S. 5th St., Austin, TX 78704 St. David's Episcopal, Sumners Hall 301 E. 8th St., Austin, TX 78701 Monday, February 12, 2024 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Thursday, February 22, 2024 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. Tuesday, February 27, 2024 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Thursday, February 29, 2024 7:30 a.m. – 9 a.m. 3 AUSTIN LIGHT RAIL PHASE 1- BASE DESIGN 9.8-mile Light Rail Transit (LRT) branched line, including 15 stations located north, south, and east of downtown Austin Light rail embedded in center of street PRIORITY EXTENSIONS Not included in the NEPA analysis Could be accelerated if additional funding becomes available 4 AUSTIN LIGHT RAIL ADVANCING DESIGN Evaluating design options identified through previous public engagement, technical and design opportunities STATION LOCATIONS Evaluating and optimizing proposed station locations MULTIMODAL INTEGRATION Study area to extend light rail bridge south of Lady Bird Lake Study area to locate bike and pedestrian facilities next to light rail, east of I-35 (center-running) along Riverside Drive Evaluate proposed end of line facilities and site locations 5 AUSTIN LIGHT RAIL NORTH SECTION Evaluate proposed end of line facilities and site locations 6 6 AUSTIN LIGHT RAIL DOWNTOWN SECTION DESIGN OPTION Option to add station near Wooldridge Square 7 7 DESIGN OPTION Option to locate station in private joint development off-street AUSTIN LIGHT RAIL SOUTH SECTION DESIGN OPTION (STUDY AREA) Study area to extend light rail bridge south of Lady Bird Lake Evaluate proposed end of line facilities and site locations DESIGN OPTION Consider options with and without Travis Heights station 8 8 AUSTIN LIGHT RAIL SOUTH SECTION DESIGN OPTION (STUDY AREA) FOR SOUTH OF LADY BIRD LAKE 1 OPTION Evaluating light rail running at street level 2 OPTION Evaluating light rail running on extended bridge 99 AUSTIN LIGHT RAIL EAST …
in a REGULAR meeting on ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, February 21, 2024 The ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION convened Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Ramberg called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hanna Cofer, Peter Einhorn, Haris Qureshi, Kevin Ramberg, Melina Schiera, and David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Perry Bedford, Richard Brimer, Jennifer Bristol, Mariana Krueger, Colin Nickells Commissioners Absent: None PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Adam Shedlosky, The Expedition School APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on February 7, 2024 The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular meeting on February 7, 2024 were approved on Commissioner Einhorn’s motion, Commissioner Bedford’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Schiera and Brimer abstained. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation of Development Assessment Report for 500 South Congress, located at 500 South Congress Avenue, CD-2023-0001 (District 9). Applicant: Richard T. Suttle, Armbrust & Brown, PLLC. Staff: Sherri Sirwaitis, Planning Department, and Leslie Lilly, Environmental Program Manager, Watershed Protection Department Speakers: Sherri Sirwaitis, Planning Department Michael Iannacone, Related Companies Dawood Rouben, Related Companies Richard Suttle, Armbrust & Brown 1 Leslie Lilly, Watershed Protection Department Item conducted as posted. No action taken. 3. Presentation on the status of Austin Light Rail. Presenters: Jen Pyne, Executive Vice President Planning, Community & Federal Programs, Lisa Storer, Sustainable Design Program Manager, and Yannis Banks, Public Involvement Manager (Austin Transit Partnership) Speakers: Jennifer Pyne, Austin Transit Partnership Alvin Livingstone, Austin Transit Partnership Lisa Storer, Austin Transit Partnership Jocelyn Vicks, Austin Transit Partnership Zenobia Joseph, public commenter Liane Conte, Project Connect Office Item conducted as posted. No action taken. COMMITTEE UPDATES 4. Update from the Urban Forestry Committee – Richard Brimer (Committee Chair), Mariana Krueger, Colin Nickells, and Melinda Schiera 5. Update from the Joint Sustainability Committee – Haris Qureshi (member) and Richard Brimer (alternate member) Jennifer Bristol 6. Update from the Balcones Canyonlands Conservation Plan Citizen’s Advisory Committee – 7. Update from the Joint Committee of the Environmental Commission and Parks and Recreation Board – Perry Bedford, Hanna Cofer, Haris Qureshi, and Kevin Ramberg 8. Update from the South Central Waterfront Advisory Board – David Sullivan FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Commissioner Qureshi mentioned a draft recommendation from the JSC regarding reducing emissions through concrete that he would like to bring to the Environmental Commission in the future. ADJOURNMENT Chair Ramberg adjourned the …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING ELECTRIC BOARD Wednesday February 21, 2024 @ 10:00 AM- In Person PERMITTING DEVELOPMENT CENTER/ 1st FLOOR, CONF RM 1401-1402 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR AUSTIN, TEXAS Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register, contact rick.arzola@austintexas.gov Gabriel Flores-Chair (Fuentes); Delwin Goss (Velasquez); David Johnson- V Chair (Madison), Victoria Shope (R.Alter), Ben Brenneman (A.Alter), Deschaine, David (Pool); CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Christian Spies(Kelly); Michael Grant (Qadri); Joel Cochren(Page) 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 of the Electrical Board Regular Called Meeting from October 18, APPROVAL OF MINUTES- 2023. DISCUSSION 2. Electrical Ordinance 80.38-Suspension of Registration 3. Code Enforcement on Stop Work orders related to Electrical Ordinance. 4. Commercial Plan Review update on workload. 5. Service Center update on staff personnel and permit output. 6. Commercial and Residential Inspection update on staff vacancies and timely inspections. 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.
Regular Called Meeting of the Economic Prosperity Commission Wednesday, February 21, 2024, 6:30pm City Hall, Boards & Commissions Room 1101 301 W. 2nd Street Austin, Texas Some members of the Economic Prosperity Commission may be participating by videoconference. Audio is recorded. 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 Cesar Garza and Stephanie Calderon at the Economic Development Department: cesar.garza@austintexas.gov and stephanie.calderon@austintexas.gov or 512-974-8055 (Cesar Garza). CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Laura Dixon, Mayor (Watson) Christiana Ponder, District 1 (Harper- Madison) Benjamin Salazar, District 2 (Fuentes) Raquel Valdez Sanchez, District 3 (Velasquez) Michael Nahas, Vice Chair, District 4 (Vela) Vacant, District 5 (R. Alter) Vacant, District 6 (Kelly) Amy Noel, District 7 (Pool) Luis Osta Lugo, District 8 (Ellis) Tina Cannon, District 9 (Qadri) Kelsey Hitchingham, Chair, District 10 (A. Alter) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER 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 Economic Prosperity Commission Regular Meeting on November 15, 2023. DISCUSSION ITEMS Presentation by Raul Alvarez regarding the Community Advancement Network and how this organization expands economic opportunities for the Austin area. Discuss the City of Austin Budget Officer’s FY 2024-2025 budget calendar. The deadline for City Boards and Commissions to submit budget recommendations is March 31, 2024. Various reminders for commission members: most recent City email password security update, City Manager’s survey, and having ongoing dialogues with appointing councilmembers about commission priorities. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS 5. Presentation by April Geruso, City of Austin Planning Department, about updating the 2012 Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan and possibly approve the appointment of an Economic Prosperity Commission representative to support the development and implementation of the Imagine Austin comprehensive engagement process. Discuss and possibly approve the appointment of a second Economic Prosperity Commission representative on the City of Austin Joint Sustainability Committee. The commission designated Commissioner Amy Noel as its first Sustainability Committee representative in 2023. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 7. Updates from …
1. 2. ECONOMIC PROSPERITY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, November 15, 2023 The Economic Prosperity Commission convened in a Regular Called meeting on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at 301 W. 2nd Street, Room 1101, Austin, TX. CALL TO ORDER Vice Chair Nahas called the Economic Prosperity Commission to order at 6:59pm. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance in Person: Vice Chair Michael Nahas (4), Luis Osta Lugo (8) Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Laura Dixon (Mayor), Benjamin Salazar (2), Amy Noel (7), Tina Cannon (9) Absent: Christiana Ponder (1), Isaiah Smith (3) Absent Excused: Chair Kelsey Hitchingham (10) Vacancy: District 5, District 6 PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve minutes of the Economic Prosperity Commission September and October meetings Motions to approve the September 20 meeting minutes and the October 18 meeting minutes were approved, both on Commissioner Cannon’s motion and Commissioner Osta Lugo’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Ponder, Smith, and Hitchingham were absent. DISCUSSION Presentation by Economic Development staff on Project Connect and its impact on city’s efforts to promote construction, procurement, workforce development, and small business. Donald E. Jackson and Katherine Sobel, staff at the City of Austin’s Economic Development Department, presented an overview of the Project Connect transit plan and discussed local impacts and related resources of information. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES Presentations from working groups (Jobs, Procurement and Infrastructure) on established focus for each group and initial findings specific to the working group The Jobs, Procurement, and Infrastructure working groups did not have updates. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Discussed the possibility of changing the December 20 meeting from a Regular Called meeting to a social event, but commission unable to take action due to loss of quorum. Vice Chair Nahas adjourned the meeting at 8:10pm without objection. *********** These minutes were approved at the ________ meeting on Commissioner ____ motion and Commissioner ____ second on a ___ vote. 3.
CAN “EXPANDING OPPORTUNITY” PRESENTATION ECONOMIC PROSPERITY COMMISSION FEBRUARY 21, 2024 C.A.N. – NETWORK MEMBERS CAN’s Main Website http://canatx.org/ C.A.N. DASHBOARD www.canatx.org/dashboard http://dashboard.canatx.org/race-equity-map/ URBAN INSTITUTE – UPWARD MOBILITY FRAMEWORK https://upward-mobility.urban.org/mobility-metrics-framework URBAN INSTITUTE – UPWARD MOBILITY FRAMEWORK https://upward-mobility.urban.org/mobility-metrics-framework Expanding Opportunity Focus Area December Update The work of the Planning Team, CAN Board and CAN Executive Committee narrowed the consideration of topics relating to "ensuring an equitable economic recovery" to the following topics: • Address Affordability Pressures for Individuals Participating in Workforce Training Opportunities (housing, childcare; healthcare; transportation; food); & Promote & Support Workforce Development Opportunities Aimed at Upskilling, including Apprenticeships and other Earn & Learn Opportunities. • The Expanding Opportunity Planning Team will help identify the proper role for CAN in advancing the selected strategies and in planning for the CAN regional summit. Central Texas Regional Summit on Expanding Opportunity April 5, 2024 (9 AM to 1 PM) @ ACC Round Rock Campus Please register at this link to help us plan for catering and so that we can accommodate dietary restrictions: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfnlNVyPhDFUamJ1g_SKt4-eYlLr4nWjt-LPicV7za2OQgeWw/viewform Q & A THANKS FOR THE INVITATION & OPPORTUNITY TO DIALOGUE! RAUL ALVAREZ CAN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RALVAREZ@CANATX.ORG HTTP://WWW.CANATX.ORG HTTP://WWW.WECANATX.ORG
Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan Community Update City of Austin Boards & Commissions Meeting Winter 2024 What is Imagine Austin & why does it matter? • Imagine Austin (IA) is the City’s comprehensive plan, a guide for long-term growth, development, and land use decisions • A comprehensive plan is required by City Charter Article X containing: • Initially adopted in 2012, IA is a 30-year plan, • 231 Actions & 289 Policies • 8 Priority Programs - Overseeing implementation • 1 Growth Concept Map • 1 Community Vision • It seeks to make Austin a city of “Complete Communities”* * Areas that provide amenities, transportation, services, and opportunities that fulfill all residents’ material, social, and economic needs. Imagine Austin Update – Timeline 4 Q 3 2 ‘ 1 Q 4 2 ‘ 2 Q 4 2 ‘ 3 Q 4 2 ‘ 4 Q 4 2 ‘ 1 Q 5 2 ‘ 2 Q 5 2 ‘ 3 Q 5 2 ‘ 4 Q 5 2 ‘ 6 2 ‘ 7 2 ‘ 8 2 ‘ Project Kickstart SEP - MAR Data evaluation; City staff pre-engagement; Framework development; Contracting Engagement JUN - OCT Plan Update Draft Data ongoing; Active dev. with public input Budgeting / IA integration NOV - MAY Ongoing coordination Implementation Priority Program Implementation Enhancements Today Key highlights of IA update pre-planning efforts to date • Refinement of plan update goals & strategies (ongoing) • City collaboration (ongoing) with: • Sustainability & Resilience; and Equity • City Departments • Department Leadership • Priority Programs & Champions • Budget Office • CPIO • Equity-driven Public Participation Planning (draft complete: March/April) Reasons, Goals, Strategies for an update to Imagine Austin: Our Equity Vision The Planning Department acknowledges the history of planning in Austin, and how past planning, including the City’s 1928 Comprehensive Plan and redlining in the 1930s produced continued struggle with displacement and gentrification, and growing disparities across all quality of life outcomes, still felt today. Additionally, the Planning Department acknowledges neighborhood planning, still in place today, covers only a fraction of the city, and even as of 2016 lacked representative decision-making and transparency. Further, those plans were found to be inconsistent with the citywide vision. In sum, some plans in place today have created planning-related outcomes both inconsistent with citywide goals, and planning activities with barriers to representative decision-making. Planning understands this opportunity to learn lessons from the …
1. 3. ECONOMIC PROSPERITY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, February 21, 2024 The Economic Prosperity Commission convened in a REGULAR CALLED meeting on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd Street, Room 1101, Austin, Texas. Chair Kelsey Hitchingham called the Economic Prosperity Commission Meeting to order at 6:33 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance in Person: Kelsey Hitchingham (10), Michael Nahas (4), Luis Osta Lugo (8), Raquel Valdez Sanchez (3), Benjamin Salazar (2) Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Christiana Ponder (1), Amy Noel (7) Absent: Laura Dixon (Mayor), Tina Cannon (9) Vacancy: District 5, District 6 PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Economic Prosperity Commission Regular Meeting on November 15, 2023. The minutes from the meeting of November 15, 2023, were approved on Commissioner Osta Lugo’s motion, Commissioner Salazar’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Dixon and Cannon were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation by Raul Alvarez regarding the Community Advancement Network and how this organization expands economic opportunities for the Austin area. Raul Alvarez presented an overview of CAN’s frameworks for race equity and upward mobility and other ways CAN expands economic opportunities for the Austin area. Discuss the City of Austin Budget Officer’s FY 2024-2025 budget calendar. The deadline for City Boards and Commissions to submit budget recommendations is March 31, 2024. 1 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Chair Hitchingham reviewed key upcoming dates in the City’s FY 2024-2025 budget approval process. Various reminders for commission members: most recent City email password security update, City Manager’s survey, and having ongoing dialogues with appointing councilmembers about commission priorities. Chair Hitchingham reminded commissioners of various housekeeping items. Presentation by April Geruso, City of Austin Planning Department, about updating the 2012 Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan and possibly approve the appointment of an Economic Prosperity Commission representative to support the development and implementation of the Imagine Austin comprehensive engagement process. On behalf of April Geruso, Alyssa Lane from the City of Austin Planning Department presented an overview of updating the Imagine Austin plan through public participation and other strategies by 2026. The motion to approve the appointment of Commissioner Valdez Sanchez as the board’s representative throughout the Imagine Austin comprehensive engagement process was approved on Commissioner Osta Lugo’s motion, Commissioner Salazar’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Dixon and Cannon were absent. Discuss and possibly approve the appointment of a second …
DOWNTOWN COMMISSION FEBRUARY 21, 2024, TIME: 5:30 p.m. Austin City Hall, Council Chamber, Room 1001 301 W 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Downtown 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 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, please contact Christine Maguire at Christine.maguire@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-7131. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: August Harris (Chair) VACANT (District 1) Tania A. Ortega (District 2) Liz Coufal (District 3) Ralph E. Ishmael, Jr. (Vice-Chair) Darilynn Cardona-Beiler (District 5) Taylor Major (District 6) Mike Lavigne (District 7) VACANT (District 8) Kimberly Levinson (District 9) Sania D. Shifferd (Mayor) CALL TO ORDER Marissa McKinney (Design Commission) David Holmes (Public Safety Commission) Amy Mok (Arts Commission) Spencer Schumacher (Urban Transportation) Jennifer Franklin (Parks and Recreation Board) Carl J. Larosche (Historic Landmark Commission) Anne Charlotte Patterson (Music Commission) 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. 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission January 17, 2024 meeting. APPROVAL OF MINUTES DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Approve a recommendation to Council to prioritize community engagement with regards to the Convention Center expansion. 3. Approve a recommendation on the renewal of the Sixth Street Public Improvement District. Presentation by Donald E Jackson of the Economic Development Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Presentation by Commander Jeff Olson of the Austin Police Department on Downtown Command public safety trends. 5. Presentations by Commander Jeff Olson of the Austin Police Department (APD), William Manno of the Austin Center for Events, Brian Block of the Development Services Department, and Division Chief Stephen Truesdell of the Austin Fire Department (AFD) on South by Southwest Festival 2024 preparedness. 6. Presentation on the status of Austin Light Rail by Peter Mullan, EVP Architecture and Urban Design, Lindsay Wood, EVP - Engineering and Construction, and Courtney Chavez, SVP - Equity and Community Partnership. 7. Presentation on the South Central Waterfront Combining District with a Density Bonus Program by April Geruso of the …
Austin Light Rail Update FEBRUARY 21, 2024 Downtown Commission 1 PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION & INTEGRATED APPROACH WORK EFFORTS SCOPING 22 Upcoming Public Outreach Federal Process: NEPA MEETING LOCATION DATE/TIME University of Texas, Eastwoods Room, 2nd floor (ground level), Texas Union 2308 Whitis Ave, Austin, TX 78712 Thursday, February 1, 2024 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Montopolis Recreation and Community Center 1200 Montopolis Dr., Austin, TX 78741 Saturday, February 10, 2024 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. League of Women Voters, Cafetorium 3908 Avenue B, Suite 105, Austin, TX 78751 Virtual Open House Twin Oaks Library, Rooms 1 & 2 1800 S. 5th St., Austin, TX 78704 St. David's Episcopal, Sumners Hall 301 E. 8th St., Austin, TX 78701 Monday, February 12, 2024 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Thursday, February 22, 2024 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. Tuesday, February 27, 2024 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Thursday, February 29, 2024 7:30 a.m. – 9 a.m. 3 AUSTIN LIGHT RAIL PHASE 1- BASE DESIGN 9.8-mile Light Rail Transit (LRT) branched line, including 15 stations located north, south, and east of downtown Austin Light rail embedded in center of street PRIORITY EXTENSIONS Not included in the NEPA analysis Could be accelerated if additional funding becomes available 4 AUSTIN LIGHT RAIL ADVANCING DESIGN Evaluating design options identified through previous public engagement, technical and design opportunities STATION LOCATIONS Evaluating and optimizing proposed station locations MULTIMODAL INTEGRATION Study area to extend light rail bridge south of Lady Bird Lake Study area to locate bike and pedestrian facilities next to light rail, east of I-35 (center-running) along Riverside Drive Evaluate proposed end of line facilities and site locations 5 AUSTIN LIGHT RAIL NORTH SECTION Evaluate proposed end of line facilities and site locations 6 6 AUSTIN LIGHT RAIL DOWNTOWN SECTION DESIGN OPTION Option to add station near Wooldridge Square 7 7 DESIGN OPTION Option to locate station in private joint development off-street AUSTIN LIGHT RAIL SOUTH SECTION DESIGN OPTION (STUDY AREA) Study area to extend light rail bridge south of Lady Bird Lake Evaluate proposed end of line facilities and site locations DESIGN OPTION Consider options with and without Travis Heights station 8 8 AUSTIN LIGHT RAIL SOUTH SECTION DESIGN OPTION (STUDY AREA) FOR SOUTH OF LADY BIRD LAKE 1 OPTION Evaluating light rail running at street level 2 OPTION Evaluating light rail running on extended bridge 99 AUSTIN LIGHT RAIL EAST …
DOWNTOWN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024 The Downtown Commission convened the regular meeting on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd Street in hybrid meeting format. COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE August Harris, Chair Ralph E Ishmael, Jr. Vice-Chair Liz Coufal Darilynn Cardona-Beiler Kimberly Levinson Spencer Schumacher Sania D. Shifferd Jen Weaver COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY Darilynn Cardona-Beiler Jennifer Franklin Kimberly Levinson Taylor Major Amy Mok Tania Ortega Ann Charlotte Patterson CALL TO ORDER Chair Harris called the meeting of the Downtown Commission to order at 5:32 pm APPROVAL OF MINUTES meeting. 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission November 20, 2023, Special Called A motion to approve the minutes was made by Commissioner Levinson and seconded by Commissioner Shifferd on a vote of 9-0. Commissioners Lavigne, McKinney, Holmes and Laroche were absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM 2. Discussion and possible action for the Commission to draft a recommendation to Council to prioritize community engagement with regards to the Convention Center expansion. A motion to approve the drafting of a recommendation similar to the Music Commission Recommendation 20231106-11 with the additional provision of a member of the Downtown Commission becoming a member of the Advisory Board by Commissioner Ishmael and seconded by Commissioner Levinson on a vote of 9-0. Commissioners Lavigne, McKinney, Holmes and Laroche were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Stevie Greathouse of the Planning Department presented on the Palm District Plan. Presentation was made by Stevie Greathouse, Capital Program Consultant, Planning Department. 4. Laura Dierenfield of the Transportation and Public Works Department presented on the Seaholm District Multimodal Connectivity Projects. Presentation was made by Laura Dierenfield, Division Manager, Transportation and Public Works Department. 5. Discussion of recent activities and actions taken by the Arts Commission. Commissioner Amy Mok updated the Commission on a partnership between the Austin Economic Development Corporation and the Austin Playhouse. Additionally, the Commissioner updated the Commission on another initiative on a community discussion on neighborhood connections with arts. 6. Discussion of recent activities and actions taken by the Historic Landmark Commission. Withdrawn. 7. Discussion of recent activities and actions taken by the Music Commission. Commissioner Ann Charlotte Patterson updated the Commission on discussions and actions by the Music Commission including a presentation on future funding needs of the Red River Cultural District. 8. Discussion of recent activities and actions taken by the Parks & Recreation Board. Commissioner Franklin had no updates at this …
DOWNTOWN COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240221-003 Date: February 21, 2024 Subject: Austin Convention Center Expansion Recommendation The Downtown Commission recommends that Austin City Council adopt the Music Commission recommendation that directs Convention Center Staff to create a Convention Center Expansion Advisory Board, consisting of stakeholders from the art, music, and other relevant communities and industries, to provide critical input for expansion planning. We further recommend that the Austin City Council direct the Music Commission to include a member of the Downtown Commission, to be chosen by the Downtown Commission Chairman, on the Convention Center Expansion Advisory Board. Description of Recommendation to Council Convention Center staff has announced plans for a comprehensive public information campaign for the expansion. As part of this public outreach, the Downtown Commission recommends that an advisory board be formed to provide community insight for this significant downtown project. Precedent is set by the South-Central Waterfront redevelopment, I-35 expansion, and Project Connect anti-displacement initiative – current public projects which benefit from project-specific community advisory boards or committees. This motion is based on study and recommendation from the Joint Arts & Music Urban Core Land Use Working Group. Rationale: • The convention center expansion will be financed by over $1 billion in public funds • The Convention Center expansion is a landmark capital project with tremendous potential for public benefits to Austin, including increased tourism revenue, exceptional public spaces, and robust programming. • City of Austin Music and Cultural grant programs are funded by Hotel Occupancy Taxes, which are directly impacted by Convention Center operations. • The adjacent publicly owned Palm School parcel holds significant historic and cultural importance, especially to Austin’s Latinx community. • The Convention Center should set itself apart and above competing facilities by leveraging and strengthening Austin’s status as a thriving mecca for creativity, arts, music, and diverse culture. • Stakeholder input from Austin’s diverse communities will enhance expansion planning vision and help the new Austin Convention Center become unique world-class destination attracting visitors from across the US and the world. Vote For: 7 (Chair Harris, Vice Chair Ishmael, Commissioners Weaver, Coufal, Major, Levinson and Shifferd) Against: 0 1 of 1
South Central Waterfront Combining District & Density Bonus Program Downtown Commission February 21, 2024 History Combining District Density Bonus Program - Bonus Program Opt-in Requirements - Fees-in-Lieu - Additional On-Site Community Benefits Timeline & Ways to Provide Feedback South Central Waterfront Vision Framework Plan Adopted June 6, 2016 5 City Council Resolution 20220915-090 ▪ Directed Planning Staff to create regulations supporting implementation of the 2016 South Central Waterfront Vision Framework Plan. ▪ Program to be re-evaluated/updated at least every five years. ▪ Increased development square footage only available through the Density Bonus Program. ▪ Maximize community benefits: affordable housing, open space, and ▪ Maximize infrastructure investments: new streets, parks, bikeways, public art, etc. and trails. 6 City Council Resolution 20220915-090 ▪ Create a Density Bonus Program “akin” to Downtown. ▪ Support Project Connect transit investment. ▪ Allow entitlements significant enough to achieve required infrastructure and community benefits. ▪ Ensure entitlements meet market demand to account for increased costs and avoid continual requests to amend the code. ▪ Create enhanced environmental standards and protections. 7 City Council Resolution 20220915-090 Create a connected, pedestrian-oriented, mixed-use district where “thousands more Austinites can live, work, and play.” 8 Updates / Changes ▪ First re-evaluation will occur sooner than 5 years to account for updated details from Project Connect and citywide density bonus analysis. ▪ The SCW regulations will be implemented by: – Council adoption an optional set of regulations and bonus program through the creation of a Combining District and a Density Bonus Program (spring 2024). – City-initiated rezoning of properties in the district (summer 2024). – Subsequent rezonings and code amendments will be required to add additional properties at a later date. 9 Combining District Components ▪ General Provisions (Policies, procedures, and who can participate) ▪ Land Use Standards (Permitted and conditional land uses) ▪ Development Standards (What will be built and where) ▪ Design Standards (How it will look) ▪ Definitions 10 Density Bonus Components ▪ Procedures/Requirements ▪ “Gate Keeper” Requirements – Affordable Housing – Environmental Protection – Improved Streetscape and Built Environment ▪ In-Lieu Fees and Dedications ▪ Onsite Community Benefits Eligible for Bonus Area 11 District Boundary New parcels added that are affected by Project Connect lightrail alignment. Project Connect Rail Alignment 12 Streets and Light Rail 13 Subdistricts Council approval is required to exceed FAR maximums 14 Critical Water Quality Zones 15 Land Uses ▪ Permitted land uses support: …
Crime Intelligence Analysis Unit Data provided by: Austin Police Department: Crime Intelligence Analysis Unit Date delivered: Request: Compiled by: Requested by: Information Request: Date Data Compiled: Sources used: 2/14/2024 DTAC Crime Trends Edward R. Anderson, Ph.D. Commander Jeff Olson 2/12/2024 Versadex RMS Provide crime trends for a period of 3-5 years for DTAC Overall crime trends for DTAC DATES: January 2019 – December 2023 ANALYSIS Overall crime incidents in DTAC dropped dramatically between February and April 2020 at the time of the COVID lockdown. Two distinct patterns are evident the corresponding to pre- and post-pandemic periods. in trend data, While overall crime incidents in the downtown Austin area have increased over the past two years, they remain below pre- pandemic levels. Month-to-month fluctuations in crime incidents are normal and to be expected, although there are notable spikes every March (denoted by stars on the graph), except for the two years when there were no in-person South by Southwest events. About 15 crime incidents occurred on any given day in DTAC during 2023. Average daily number of crime incidents in DTAC 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 19.6 13.5 14.2 14.5 15.4 Comparison of crime types DATES: January 2019 – December 2023 ANALYSIS A similar pattern holds regardless of crime type: crime incidents in 2023 are comparable to, or somewhat higher than 2022, but are below pre-pandemic levels: • The daily rate of Crimes Against Persons in 2023 (3.8 per day) is similar to the 2022 rate (3.9 per day). • Crimes Against Property have increased in 2023 (7.0 per day) compared to 2022 (6.7 per day) but remain well below pre-pandemic levels (8.6 per day in 2019). • Similar patterns are seen for Crimes Against Society and Group B Crimes. Simple assault and theft remain the most common crimes in the downtown area. Pocket-picking has been increasing in recent years and is now the third most common crime in the downtown area. Crimes trending upward DATES: January 2019 – December 2023 ANALYSIS: Pocket picking Two crime types have shown consistent upward trends over recent years. The monthly rate of pickpocketing has increased over the past year to rates higher than even pre-pandemic levels. The 52 pickpocketing incidents in March 2022 was higher than any observed in the previous 38 months. Although there were fewer pickpocketing incidents in March 2023 (37 incidents), higher monthly incidents occurred throughout much of the year. ANALYSIS: …
SXSW Conference & Spring Festivals 2024 Austin Police Department – Downtown Area Command SXSW OVERVIEW • March 8th - March 16th, 2024 • The 2023 SXSW Conference & Festivals and SXSW EDU drew approximately 345,066 people • ~60 venues have authorized SXSW Activations • Numerous unauthorized activations STAFFING • DTAC Days: Staffed at 100% + for the duration of SXSW. • DTAC Evenings/Nights: Staffed at 100% + for the duration of SXSW. • Inside 6th - Designated patrol area inside the 6th Street/Red River enclosure. (Call takers). • Outside 6th - Designated patrol area outside the 6th Street enclosure • Additional patrols for Congress Ave, Warehouse District, W 6th St District, and Rainey District. DTAC Call Takers • Overtime officers are hired to support call taking duties outside 6th St/Red River closure. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES • Standard police operations • Street Closures/Barricade Officers – APD/Other Central Texas LE Agencies • Towing enforcement Shifts • Additional Call taking Shifts • PACE Teams – Code Enforcement • Traffic Congestion Shift • Sound Enforcement – 2 officers per day A TEAM EFFORT • In addition to the officers assigned to the Downtown Area Command, officers from all over the department will assist during Spring Festival Season to ensure public safety throughout the event: • Counter Assault Strike Team (CAST) • Mounted • EOD (Bomb Squad) • Special response Team (SRT) • Organized Crime Division (OCD) • Metro Tactical Units 2023 SPRING FESTIVAL SEASON VIOLENT CRIME INITIATIVE The 2023 Spring Festival Season Violent Crime Initiative was a joint effort from the Austin Police Department (APD) Violent Crimes Interdiction Unit, Organized Crime Division, Tactical Intelligence Unit, and Metro Tactical Units, the Downtown Area Command and the Special Response Team. The initiative ran between March 8th - March 18th, 2023. This initiative yielded: • 131 Arrests/61 Seized Firearms • Seized Narcotics: 3.5 kg cocaine, 26.6 kg of methamphetamine, 41.38 g fentanyl/heroin, and 90 pounds of marijuana. From March 15th – March 18th,2023 (last weekend on E 6th St/Red River St) the Special Response Team and the Downtown Area Command had : • 77 Arrests/26 Seized Firearms • Seized Narcotics: 26.69 g cocaine, 31.32 g methamphetamine, 8.15g fentanyl UNIFIED COMMAND • SXSW Representatives • Austin PD • Austin FD • ATCEMS • COA Homeland Security Emergency Management (HSEM) • COA Transportation • COA Code Enforcement • COA Public Information Office (PIO) • Austin Regional Intelligence Center (ARIC) …
Vehicle Safety Mitigation Plan Event Details Austin TX 6th Street Closure Unknown Street fair Chris Juusola Austin TX Meridian Contact Michael Bochsler • Secure access points • Protect pedestrian activities Event Name Event Date Event Type Contact Location Objectives Additional Considerations Creation Date 1/11/2024 SUPPORT@MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM 434.529.6903 WWW.MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM Guidance on utilizing the Meridian VSMP: Orientation: Each deployment location is visualized as an aerial view represented in a compass north orientation followed by a ground-level view represented from the perspective of on-coming traffic (unless otherwise noted). Barriers and beam gates will be deployed with the ramp facing in the direction of the potential threat. Barrier placement is specifically designed to account for stopping distance as well as to take advantage of adjacent physical structures which will further support effective mitigation. Please Note: This Assessment utilizes satellite imagery and street views provided by a third-Party and represents Meridian’s estimate based upon incomplete knowledge and a lack of familiarity with the proposed closure locations. Meridian recommends an on-site examination by a Company Representative in order to provide a certified hostile vehicle mitigation plan and solutions. The Assessment reflects the planned closures at the time of publishing and may be superseded by updated plans. Please ensure that updates are disseminated to the appropriate stakeholders. This vehicle mitigation plan is created for internal use only by Meridian and its customers. Plans may not be distributed to outside agencies without permission. SUPPORT@MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM 434.529.6903 WWW.MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM Deployment Locations D E F C B A SUPPORT@MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM 434.529.6903 WWW.MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM Location : A E 6th Street east of Brazos Street Distance 40 Feet Equipment 1 – Barrier 1 – Beam Gate 1 – 4’ Cable 2 – Cable Covers Note : Deployment is subject to change based on site circumstances SUPPORT@MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM 434.529.6903 WWW.MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM 12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031323334353637383940 Location : B San Jacinto Blvd north of 6th Street Distance 58 Feet Equipment 9 – Barriers 8 – 4’ Cables 16 – Cable Covers Note : Deployment is subject to change based on site circumstances SUPPORT@MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM 434.529.6903 WWW.MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM 12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031323334353637383940414243444546474849505152535455565758 Location : C San Jacinto Blvd south of 6th Street Distance 42 Feet Equipment 9 – Barriers 8 – 4’ Cables 16 – Cable Covers Note : Deployment is subject to change based on site circumstances SUPPORT@MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM 434.529.6903 WWW.MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM 12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031323334353637383940414243444546474849505152535455565758 Location : D Trinity Street north of 6th Street Distance 45 Feet Equipment 7 – Barriers 6 – 4’ Cables 12 – Cable Covers Note : Deployment is …
South Central Waterfront Combining District & Density Bonus Program Downtown Commission February 21, 2024 History Combining District Density Bonus Program - Bonus Program Opt-in Requirements - Fees-in-Lieu - Additional On-Site Community Benefits Timeline & Ways to Provide Feedback South Central Waterfront Vision Framework Plan Adopted June 6, 2016 5 City Council Resolution 20220915-090 ▪ Directed Planning Staff to create regulations supporting implementation of the 2016 South Central Waterfront Vision Framework Plan. ▪ Program to be re-evaluated/updated at least every five years. ▪ Increased development only available through the Density Bonus Program. public art, etc. and trails. ▪ Maximize community benefits: affordable housing, open space, and ▪ Maximize infrastructure investments: new streets, parks, bikeways, 6 City Council Resolution 20220915-090 ▪ Create a Density Bonus Program “akin” to Downtown. ▪ Support Project Connect transit investment. ▪ Allow entitlements significant enough to achieve required infrastructure and community benefits. ▪ Ensure entitlements meet market demand to account for increased costs and avoid continual requests to amend the code. ▪ Create enhanced environmental standards and protections. 7 City Council Resolution 20220915-090 Create a connected, pedestrian-oriented, mixed-use district where “thousands more Austinites can live, work, and play.” 8 Updates / Changes ▪ The SCW regulations will be implemented by: – Council adoption of an optional set of regulations and bonus program through the creation of a Combining District and a Density Bonus Program (spring 2024). – City-initiated rezoning of properties in the district (summer 2024). – Subsequent rezonings and code amendments will be required to add additional properties at a later date. ▪ Regulation review will occur sooner than 5 years to account for updated details from Project Connect and citywide density bonus analysis. 9 Combining District Components ▪ General Provisions (Policies, procedures, and who can participate) ▪ Land Use Standards (Permitted and conditional land uses) ▪ Development Standards (What can be built and where) ▪ Design Standards (How it will look) ▪ Definitions 10 Density Bonus Components ▪ Procedures/Requirements ▪ “Gate Keeper” Requirements – Affordable Housing – Environmental Protection – Improved Streetscape and Built Environment ▪ In-Lieu Fees and Dedications ▪ Onsite Community Benefits Eligible for Bonus Area 11 District Boundary New parcels added that are affected by Project Connect light rail alignment. Project Connect Rail Alignment 12 Streets and Light Rail 13 Subdistricts Council approval is required to exceed FAR maximums 14 Critical Water Quality Zones 15 Land Uses ▪ Permitted land uses support: …
DOWNTOWN COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240221-002 Date: February 21, 2024 Subject: Austin Convention Center Expansion Recommendation The Downtown Commission recommends that Austin City Council adopt the Music Commission recommendation that directs Convention Center Staff to create a Convention Center Expansion Advisory Board, consisting of stakeholders from the art, music, and other relevant communities and industries, to provide critical input for expansion planning. We further recommend that the Austin City Council direct the Music Commission to include a member of the Downtown Commission, to be chosen by the Downtown Commission Chairman, on the Convention Center Expansion Advisory Board. Description of Recommendation to Council Convention Center staff has announced plans for a comprehensive public information campaign for the expansion. As part of this public outreach, the Downtown Commission recommends that an advisory board be formed to provide community insight for this significant downtown project. Precedent is set by the South-Central Waterfront redevelopment, I-35 expansion, and Project Connect anti-displacement initiative – current public projects which benefit from project-specific community advisory boards or committees. This motion is based on study and recommendation from the Joint Arts & Music Urban Core Land Use Working Group. Rationale: • The convention center expansion will be financed by over $1 billion in public funds • The Convention Center expansion is a landmark capital project with tremendous potential for public benefits to Austin, including increased tourism revenue, exceptional public spaces, and robust programming. • City of Austin Music and Cultural grant programs are funded by Hotel Occupancy Taxes, which are directly impacted by Convention Center operations. • The adjacent publicly owned Palm School parcel holds significant historic and cultural importance, especially to Austin’s Latinx community. • The Convention Center should set itself apart and above competing facilities by leveraging and strengthening Austin’s status as a thriving mecca for creativity, arts, music, and diverse culture. • Stakeholder input from Austin’s diverse communities will enhance expansion planning vision and help the new Austin Convention Center become unique world-class destination attracting visitors from across the US and the world. Vote For:6-Chair Harris, Vice Chair Ishmael, Commissioners Cardona-Beiler, Coufal, Levinson, and Ortega Off Dais: Commissioners Lavigne and Shifferd Absent: Commissioner Major Against: 0 Christi Vitela attest 1 of 1
Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 21, 2024 DOWNTOWN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, February 21, 2024 The Downtown Commission convened the regular meeting on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd Street in hybrid meeting format. COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE August Harris, Chair Ralph E Ishmael, Jr. Vice-Chair Liz Coufal Mike Lavigne Kimberly Levinson Spencer Schumacher Sania D. Shifferd COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY Darilynn Cardona-Beiler Jennifer Franklin David Holmes Amy Mok Tania Ortega Ann Charlotte Patterson CALL TO ORDER Chair Harris called the meeting of the Downtown Commission to order at 5:32 pm APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission January 17, 2024 meeting. The minutes from the meeting on 01/17/24 were approved on Commissioner Levinson’s motion, Vice Chair Ishmael’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Lavigne and Shifferd were off the dais. Commissioner Major was absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM 1 Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 21, 2024 2. Approve a recommendation to Council to prioritize community engagement with regards to the Convention Center expansion. The motion to approve Recommendation 20240221-002 to create a Convention Center Expansion Advisory Board was approved on Commissioner Levinson’s motion, Commissioner Coufal’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Lavigne and Shifferd were off the dais. Commissioner Major was absent. 3. Approve a recommendation on the renewal of the Sixth Street Public Improvement District. Presentation by Donald E Jackson of the Economic Development Department. The motion to postpone this item to 3/20/2024 was approved on Commissioner Levinson’s motion, Vice Chair Ishmael’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Lavigne and Shifferd were off the dais. Commissioner Major was absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Presentation by Commander Jeff Olson of the Austin Police Department on Downtown Command public safety trends. Presentation was given by Commander Jeff Olson, Downtown Area Command Unit, Austin Police Department. 5. Presentations by Commander Jeff Olson of the Austin Police Department (APD), William Manno of the Austin Center for Events, Brian Block of the Development Services Department, and Division Chief Stephen Truesdell of the Austin Fire Department (AFD) on South by Southwest Festival 2024 preparedness. Presentations were given by Commander Jeff Olson, Downtown Area Command Unit, Austin Police Department; Lieutenant Christopher Juusola, Austin Police Department; Brian Patterson, Fire Battalion Chief, Special Events; and Bill Manno, Program Manager, Office of Special Events. 6. Presentation on the status of Austin Light Rail by Peter Mullan, EVP Architecture and Urban Design, Lindsay …
SPECIALLY CALLED MEETING of the COMPREHENSIVE PLAN JOINT COMMITTEE FEBRUARY 21, 2024, 4:00 PM PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 2103 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR. AUSTIN, TEXAS 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 Ann DeSanctis, 512-974-3102, ann.desanctis@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: PLANNING COMMISSION ZONING AND PLATTING COMMISSION Grayson Cox, Vice Chair Adam Haynes Alberta Phillips Hank Smith, Chair David Fouts Carrie Thompson AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. 2. 3. Approve the minutes of the COMPREHENSIVE PLAN JOINT COMMITTEE REGULAR CALLED MEETING on January 10, 2024. Presentation from Budget Office by Kerri Lang on budget process and integrating requests. Presentation by consultant CD&P on the Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan Update’s Community Engagement Process. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Presentation, discussion, and possible action to amend Imagine Austin Plan to attach Equitable Transit Oriented Development (ETOD) Typologies and map from accepted ETOD Policy Plan. ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Ann DeSanctis at the Planning Department, at 512-974-3102, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Comprehensive Plan Joint Commission, please contact Ann DeSanctis at 512-974-3102.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN JOINT COMMITTEE REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES 10, January, 2024 The COMPREHENSIVE PLAN JOINT COMMITTEE convened in a REGULAR CALLED meeting on 10, January, 2024, at 6310 Wilhemina Delco Dr., Room 2103, in Austin, Texas. Chair Hank Smith called the Comprehensive Plan Joint Committee Meeting to order at 4:05 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Adam Haynes Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: David Fouts, Carrie Thompson, Grayson Cox, Hank Smith PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL There were no speakers signed up to speak. APPROVAL OF MINUTES DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Approve the minutes of the COMPREHENSIVE PLAN JOINT COMMITTEE REGULAR CALLED MEETING on 12, October 2023. The minutes from the meeting of 10/12/2023 were approved on Grayson Cox motion, David Fouts second on a unanimous vote. Commissioner Connolly was absent. Presentation by ATD Staff regarding amendments to the ASMP. Presentation by Kelsey Vizzard, Planner Senior with ATD, to provide updates on ASMP amendments to the CPJC. The board has no recommendations at this time. Presentation by Ann DeSanctis regarding Imagine Austin Speaker Series potential speakers. Presentation by Ann DeSanctis, Planner Senior with the Planning Department on Imagine Austin Speaker Series for 2024 will focus on Equity, Resilience, and Sustainability in various facets. Carrie Thompson recommended topics around dark skies. Presentation by Christopher Crain regarding Priority Program meetings to date. Presentation by Christopher Crain, Planner Senior with the Planning Department on Priority Program work to date. The board has no recommendations at this time. 1. 3. 4. 1 Presentation by Chase Gonsoulin on Imagine Austin Compliance Checklist. Board directed staff to improve checklist by creating a threshold of how many “yes’s” trigger compliance with Imagine Austin, making the checklist more inclusive of all sections of Imagine Austin, and advised tracking compliance checklist. Chair Hank Smith adjourned the meeting at 5:06 without objection. 5. 2
CITY OF AUSTIN IMAGINE AUSTIN PUBLIC PARTICIPATION FOR A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE About CD&P We make it easy to connect, communicate, and be engaged. CD&P is a public engagement firm that empowers partners, clients, and communities to work together effectively through thoughtful programs and outreach. 1 Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan Update Initially adopted in 2012, Imagine Austin is a 30-year plan that shapes the city by guiding long-term growth, development, and land use decisions. As it approaches its 200th anniversary, Austin is a beacon of sustainability, social equity, and economic opportunity; where diversity and creativity are celebrated; where community needs and values are recognized; where leadership comes from its citizens, and where the necessities of life are affordable and accessible to all. - Imagine Austin 2 Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan Update - Timeline 3 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT (MARCH 2024) Both internal and external stakeholder involvement is planned Internal – City staff and employees, Board and Commission Members • External – Nonprofit agencies, service organizations • A series of convenient listening sessions will be held to engage folks • • Internal – Meetings at COA offices, led by Planning Department External – Onsite at community centers, libraries and resilience hubs from South Austin to Eastern Crescent, as well as virtual meetings 4 Meeting Aspirations to Inform the Public Participation Plan • All meetings will be grounded in equity • Other individual and organizational voices will be organically recommended through these initial conversations • Relevant messaging, impactful ways of communication, and how and where populations successfully convene and celebrate will be identified • Additional Comprehensive Plan goals might surface through these exchanges 5
Equitable Transit-Oriented Development ETOD and Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan Joint Committee 2/21/2024 Agenda Background Next Steps 1 2 3 ETOD and Imagine Austin Background 1 From Transit-Oriented-Development (TOD) to Equitable TOD Equitable TOD works towards building equitable outcomes through proactive actions to ensure that everyone, especially historically marginalized communities of color, can benefit from transit connectivity. Roadmap Step 1: Establish Framework ETOD Policy Plan Accepted by City Council on March 9, 2023 ETOD Study Released Sept. 2023 ETOD Policy Plan • Builds on the FTA-funded ETOD Study. • Provides a comprehensive policy framework to guide future development around the Project Connect system. • It helps the Austin community ensure that the results of Project Connect support residents of all incomes and backgrounds, especially those that have been disproportionately burdened by transportation and land use decisions. ETOD Goals transportation 8 ETOD Station Area Typologies If a station has… …and is… …and has experienced… More Residents Today Historically Exclusionary or Low Displacement Rapid Change More Residents Today Historically Exclusionary or Low Displacement Slow Change Fewer Residents Today Historically Exclusionary or Low Displacement Rapid Change Fewer Residents Today Historically Exclusionary or Low Displacement Slow Change More Residents Today Vulnerable to or Experiencing Displacement Rapid Change More Residents Today Vulnerable to or Experiencing Displacement Slow Change Fewer Residents Today Vulnerable to or Experiencing Displacement Rapid Change Fewer Residents Today Vulnerable to or Experiencing Displacement Slow Change ETOD and Imagine Austin 2 Council Action on March 9, 2023 – Resolution no. 20230309-016 Imagine Austin and ETOD • ETOD typologies consider existing population, recent growth and economic development, and displacement risk of households. ETOD typologies also speak to types of growth most needed for equitable outcomes in a station area • Incorporating ETOD Typologies into Imagine Austin allows for: • Updating IA Compliance Checklist • Formal consideration in zoning and neighborhood plan amendment case review • Demonstrating alignment and transit-supportive policy to the Federal Transit Administration Imagine Austin and ETOD • The amendment to Imagine Austin will include: • The methodology through which staff developed the 8 ETOD Typologies • The 8 ETOD typologies and their descriptions • The ETOD typology map • A preface that provides context about the application of the typologies and their map to Imagine Austin Next Steps 3 Imagine Austin- ETOD Amendment Timeline Briefing and Possible Action at CPJC Feb 21, 2024 (today!) Planning Commission Hearing and Possible Action March 12, …
