BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Downtown Commission Recommendation Number: 20240626-005: UPDATE TO THE DOWNTOWN AUSTIN PLAN WHEREAS in 2005, the Austin City Council passed a resolution calling for the adoption of a Downtown Austin Plan (Original DAP); and WHEREAS in 2011 the City Council adopted the Original DAP; and WHEREAS in 2010, Austin’s Downtown population was estimated to be 9,343, by 2020 it had grown to 13,041, and now is estimated to be 15,360; and WHEREAS in 2010, there were 4,675 dwelling units Downtown, by 2020 approximately 9,343 dwelling, and now it is estimated that there are more than 10,300 dwelling units; and WHEREAS there is 7.2 million square feet of construction underway with an additional 14.3 million square feet of space planned for Downtown, including more than 3,000 additional dwelling units; and WHEREAS additional residential, office and hotel developments are likely to occur throughout Downtown over the next 10 years; and WHEREAS the Original DAP was drafted to provide Austin with a roadmap for addressing the anticipated challenges facing Downtown over the subsequent 10 years; and WHEREAS the COVID 19 Pandemic caused an unforseen shift in how Austinites and visitors use and experience Downtown presenting an array of challenges and opportunities; and WHEREAS the Original DAP was intended as both a vision for Downtown as well an action plan to encourage Downtown to become more economically vibrant, livable, walkable, mobile, inclusive, diverse, and culturally alive; and WHEREAS that Original DAP’s 10-year lifecycle ended in 2021; and WHEREAS because of the complexity and breadth of the Original DAP, numerous departments within the City of Austin are charged with accomplishing various aspects of the plan including Transportation and Public Works, Economic Development (+Urban Design), Parks and Recreation, Planning (+Historic Preservation); and WHEREAS responsibility for implementing the various elements of the Original DAP is spread among numerous departments with little centralized control, oversight or accountability; and WHEREAS the charter of the Downtown Commission explicitly states that its charge is to oversee the implementation of the DAP; and WHEREAS the charge of other City of Austin Boards and Commissions intersect with their respective departments without engagement of the Downtown Commission whose charge is specific to the DAP; and WHEREAS significant progress has occurred in accomplishing some of the goals of the Original Dap, elements of that Original DAP are still not realized, viable or relevant; and WHEREAS new challenges and opportunities have arisen in downtown since …
JOINT SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING MEETING MINUTES June 26, 2024 The Joint Sustainability Committee convened in a hybrid meeting via videoconferencing and the Permitting and Development Center. Board Members in Attendance in Person: Charlotte Davis, Haris Qureshi, Jon Salinas, Chris Maxwell-Gaines Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Heather Houser, Anna Scott, Alice Woods, Rodrigo Leal, Diana Wheeler, Yure Suarez Board Members Absent: Larry Franklin, Amy Noel, Christopher Campbell, Kaiba White, Melissa Rothrock, Stephanie Bazan City Staff in Attendance: Rohan Lilauwala and Zach Baumer CALL TO ORDER Vice-Chair Charlotte Davis called the meeting to order at 6:16 pm. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION • Kathy Mitchell – On behalf Community Investment Budget. Includes support for Climate Equity Plan + Food Plan. Looking for JSC endorsement before August. 1. Approval of minutes from the May 22nd meeting of the Joint Sustainability Committee. • Davis correction – on item 2, reflect that no action was taken. • Maxwell-Gaines motions to approve, Qureshi second, passes 10-0. 2. Recommendation of investments the City should fund as part of council resolution 20240215-025 ‘Environmental Investment Plan’. • Item struck from agenda 4. Update on regional climate planning efforts as part of the EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grant Program – Mali Calvo, Office of Sustainability • Qureshi - will we be doing county-specific workshops? Do we have ideas on how o We’re doing outreach to different municipal/county governments. • How are we pursuing funding for four measures not applied for a grant? o We’re opportunistic, looking for funding where available. Supporting EPA Community change grant for trees + AE Solar for all. 5. Climate Fee Best Practices – Rohan Lilauwala, Office of Sustainability • Qureshi – in support of progressive rather than regressive taxation • Salinas – what is the large retailer fee in Portland? o 1% surcharge on companies with more than $1 billion in annual revenue and more than $500,000 in revenue in Portland • Leal - Is Legal department looking into more comprehensive fee approaches? o Unclear at the moment • Woods – are these on utility bills? o Yes • Scott – could projects with revenue/savings be compatible with a climate fee? o Yes, but there could be other revenue streams (green bank, revolving funds) that those projects could fund • Maxwell-Gaines – could hotel tax fund this? Or other tourist taxes fund this? o Potential pushback from hospitality industry • Salinas – is there revenue from micromobility? …
Building and Fire Code Board of Appeals Board Meeting Approved Minutes The Building and Fire Code Board of Appeals met in a Regular Meeting on June 26, 2024 Board Member, Schumann called the meeting to order at 1:35 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Ben Abzug, Ron Buys, Aubrey Brasfield, Allison Satt, Oren Mitzner, Jim Rumbo and Alan Schumann Board Members Not in Attendance: Gary Wilks and Ashley Juraska Staff in Attendance: Rick Arzola (DSD) and Marty Starrett (DSD) June 26, 2024 APPROVAL OF MINUTES: 1. The minutes from the May 22, 2024, regular called meeting were approved as written. Board member Mitzner made a motion to accept the minutes as written, Vice Chair Brasfield second the motion. Motion passed 7-0. Board member Wilks and Juraska were absent. DISCUSSION: 2. 2024 International Property Maintenance Code- Austin Code- Austin Code Supervisor Moses Rodriguez presented to the board the 2024 Local amendments proposed changes to the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC). In his presentation, staff highlighted infestation to include scorpions and bed bugs as part of their rodent infestation, which was not included previously. Also included in the amendment of major changes is upgrading from 60 amps to 100 amps for single family dwellings only if the electrical system is defective or damaged. Cooling facilities, to maintain a room temperature of at least 15 degrees cooler than the outside temperature but not higher than 85 degrees in each occupiable room. Not having these changes would be considered an unfit structure for human occupancy and would be considered a hazard for the occupants of that structure and or to the public. The property owner shall then provide an action plan for repairs to the code official within two days of the initial notice. In concerns of these changes with affordability, board inquired as to what is defined as a damaged electrical system for it to be upgraded, staff for now does not have a definition but it would be a case-by- case situation. Austin Code will take the IPMC Code amendments to the Building and Standard commission for recommendation and hope to have council approved at the September 12 date with a January 1, 2025 implementation. 2024 International Fire Code- Austin Fire- Austin Fire engineer Ben Flick addressed the board on significant changes 2024 International Fire code and changes to the 25-12 local amendments. These changes are to address the changing technology that has …
AUSTIN FIRE DEPARTMENT 2024 International Fire Code Adoption 2024 International Fire Code L o c a l A m e n d m e n t A d o p t i o n The Our Mission Goes Beyond Our Name is the cornerstone of the Austin Fire Department. A leader in the fire service, AFD is on the cutting-edge of technology and training. A leader in the fire service, the Austin Fire Department protects lives and property through extensive fire prevention and safety education efforts, in addition to a quick and effective response to emergencies. 2 Proposed Adoption In accordance with ICC latest publication, Austin Fire Department is on track to implement the 2024 International Fire Code (IFC) on January 1, 2025. 3 Coordinate and Clarify Goal: To clarify previously adopted local amendments with changing technology and published code and coordinate changed or outdate references to other adopted codes and standards. Reasons for amendments: 1. To support operating procedures for Operations, both in and outside of structures 2. Clarification purposes 3. Provide higher level of safety for properties utilizing hazardous materials 4 2024 IFC Significant Changes • Chapter 2 § 202 Definitions • Flammable Gas Definition - A material which is a gas at 68°F or less at 14.7 psia subdivided as follows: • 1. Category 1A. A gas that meets either of the following: • 1.1. A gas which is ignitable at 14.7 psia when in a mixture of 13% or less by volume with air; or • 1.2. A gas with a flammable range at 14.7 psia with air of not less than 12%, regardless of the lower limit, unless data shows compliance with Category 1B. • 2. Category 1B. A gas which meets the flammability criteria for Category 1A, is not pyrophoric or chemically unstable, and meets one of more of the following: • 2.1. A lower flammability limit of more than 6% by volume of air; or • 2.2. A fundamental burning velocity of less than 3.9 inches/second. • The limits specified shall be determined at 14.7 psi and a temperature of 68°F in accordance with ASTM E681. Where not otherwise specified, the term “flammable gas” includes both Category 1A and 1B. • Occupiable Roof – an exterior space on a roof that is designed for human occupancy, other than maintenance and repair, and which is equipped with a means of egress system meeting requirements …
2024 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) The IPMC is a model code intended to establish minimum standards for structural conditions, lighting, ventilation, sanitation, and fire safety. The IPMC is administered by local building code officials nationwide with local amendments that are approved by City Council. Purpose of Presentation To provide an overview of the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) amendment process and share major proposed changes Background The City of Austin will adopt the International Code Council (ICC)’s 2024 IPMC updates from the current 2021 IPMC The DSD Code Compliance Division established an internal amendment committee to draft proposed amendments to the code Purpose of proposed changes is to ensure public safety and maintain consistency with other city codes 2024 IPMC Adoption Timeline Review Phase #1 (Internal) October 2023 – December 2023 Stakeholder Engagement March 25, 2024 – May 2024 Legal Review July 2024 Implementation – January 1, 2025 Review Phase #2 (Internal) December 2023 – February 2024 Building and Standards Commission – June 26, 2024 City Council Hearing – September 12, 2024 Primary Goal The proposed amendments aim to ensure public safety when unsafe or hazardous conditions are found on a property by requiring: • 100 amps minimum for a single family dwelling. • Cooling Facilities Primary Goal The proposed amendments aim to ensure public safety when unsafe or hazardous conditions are found on a property by requiring: • 100 amps minimum for a single family dwelling. • Cooling Facilities Major Changes in the 2024 IPMC Draft The following language was added as section 603 Cooling Facilities 603.7 Cooling Facilities Required. (1) Air conditioning. (A) An owner shall: (i) provide, and maintain, in operating condition, refrigerated air equipment capable of maintaining a room temperature of at least 15 degrees cooler than the outside temperature, but in no event higher than 85° F. in each habitable room; (ii) maintain all air conditioning systems, including air conditioning unit covers, panels, conduits, and disconnects, properly attached, and in operating condition. (B) The required room temperatures shall be measured 3 feet (914 mm) above the floor near the center of the room and 2 feet (610 mm) inward from the center of each exterior wall (C) It is a defense to prosecution under this paragraph that at least one habitable room is 85° F, if the outside temperature is over 110° F.” 111.1.3 - Structure unsafe for human occupancy. A structure is …
AUSTIN FIRE DEPARTMENT 2024 International Wildland Urban Interface Code Adoption 2024 International Wildland Urban Interface Code L o c a l A m e n d m e n t A d o p t i o n Our Mission Goes Beyond Our Name is our cornerstone As a leader in the fire service: We are on the cutting-edge of technology and training. We protect lives and property through extensive fire prevention and safety education efforts, in addition to a quick and effective response to emergencies. 2 Proposed Adoption In accordance with ICC latest publication, Austin Fire Department is on track to implement the 2024 International Wildland Urban Interface Code (IWUIC) and local amendments 30 days following City Council adoption, tentative date mid-October 2024. 3 Coordinate and Clarify Goals: Clarify previously adopted local amendments with changing technology and published code. Adjust requirements based on challenges and successes of initial implementation of the IWUIC. Reasons for amendments: 1. To support operating procedures for Wildfire Operations. 2. Formalize WUI Proximity Zones to clarify structure hardening requirements. 3. Align requirements with current wildfire research. 4. Clarification purposes and formalizing 2015 WUIC interpretations. 4 2024 IWUIC Significant Changes Significant Changes to IWUIC model code: • 104 Determination of Compliance (COA amendments refer to Fire Code) • Outlines requirements for technical opinions, reports, and alternative materials, design and methods • 503.2 Ignition-resistant building material. Reorganized and clarified. • 504.5.1 Flashing. Additional requirements above International Residential Code. • 504.10, 505.10, 506.5 Vents • Performance and Prescriptive requirements • 1/8” max. mesh openings, in alignment with current COA regulation 5 Wildland An area in which development is essentially nonexistent including but not limited to grassland, pastures and farmland, shrub-covered and treed areas, easements, unmitigated parkland, and other natural surfaces that are not regularly maintained. • Wildland is no longer defined as 40 acres or 750 acres. • Wildland mapping will reflect approximately 10 acres, to be specified within Fire Protection Criteria Manual. • Expands examples of wildland types and includes easements. • Compared to the model code, the amendment does not exempt roads, railroads, power lines or similar facilities from being wildland. • Additional guidance will be included in the Fire Protection Criteria Manual. 6 Proximity Zone Section 302.4 The designation given to a structure to determine the enhanced ignition resistant construction required to reduce the effects of a wildfire on the structure. The proximity zone is …
RECOMMENDATION Joint Inclusion Committee Recommendation Number 20240626-010: Affordable Child Care WHEREAS, the Joint Inclusion Committee (“Commission”) of the City of Austin (“City”) serves as an advisory body that advocates for the close cooperation between the council, City management, City boards, commissions, committees and task forces to increase and sustain equity, diversity and inclusion in the city. WHEREAS, for decades, families in Austin and Travis County have struggled to find affordable, quality child care and after school and summer programming for children birth to high school graduation (henceforth referred to as “child care”); and WHEREAS, child care is the highest expense for families after housing in Travis County, and one year of child care costs more than one year of tuition at the University of Texas at Austin; and WHEREAS, the current waiting list for families with low income who need child care subsidies has more than 4,600 children on it, enrollment is closed, and there is now a 2-year waiting list period; and WHEREAS, child care costs are out of reach for many families in Austin and Travis County. While families cannot afford the current prices, child care tuition rarely covers the true cost of providing a high-quality program. Costs for quality child care programs (including paying staff a living wage) have increased but families cannot afford to pay more; and WHEREAS, the child care and out-of-school time workforce, predominantly women of color, earns less than a living wage resulting in high turnover (over 30% annually) and under-staffed programs serving fewer children and cutting hours. Turnover hurts children and creates stress for families; and WHEREAS, families rely on affordable quality child care to participate in and complete education, training programs, or the workforce; and WHEREAS, child care and out of school time challenges particularly impact individuals and communities of color that have been historically excluded from economic prosperity: • 81% of children under age 6 receiving child care subsidies in Travis County are Black, Hispanic, or non-white/multi-racial • The share of Travis County children under age 6 in working families who have parents working nontraditional hours is 47.1% Black and 42.1% Hispanic • The child care workforce in Texas is overwhelmingly female and 62% are either Black or Hispanic; and WHEREAS, a local investment in affordable quality child care and out of school time programs will result in better outcomes for children, greater workforce participation, family economic stability and a …
JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) convened a REGULAR meeting on WEDNESDAY, JUNE 26TH, 2024, at 3:00 P.M. CST in the CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS RM #1101 (301 W. 2ND STREET, AUSTIN, TX 78701) Chair AMANDA AFIFI called the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE meeting to order at 3:03 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission: Amanda Afifi (Chair) Commission on Aging: Richard Bondi (Vice Chair) Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission: Sonny Sin Commission on Immigrant Affairs: Melissa Ortega Commission for Women: Julie Glasser Early Childhood Council: Leonor Vargas Human Rights Commission: Morgan Davis Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities: Jennifer Powell Commissioners Absent: African American Resource Advisory Commission: Serita Fontanesi or Antonio Ross PUBLIC COMMUNICATION The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. Kathy Mitchell, shares about the Community Investment Budget which 44 organizations have signed and requests that the JIC endorse. 100% community based budget that was developed months in advance and does not represent a coalition of vendors. Kathy shares that the budget process may be conservative and that she is available to return to the JIC to present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Advisory Commission: Jerry Joe Benson 1 1. Approve the minutes of the COMMITTEE’s REGULAR MEETING on MAY 29th, 2024. The minutes were approved on COMMISSIONER MORGAN DAVIS’ motion, COMMISSIONER JENNIFER POWELL’s second, on a 9-0 vote. (Absent: African American Resource Advisory Commission’s Serita Fontanesi or Antonio Ross). STAFF BRIEFING 2. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Staff briefing on 2024 updates of City of Austin Demographics by Lila Valencia, City Demographer. Lila Valencia presents and shares updates to the Commission. COMMISSIONERS AMANDA AFIFI, RICHARD BONDI, and JENNIFER POWELL discuss follow up questions regarding SOGI, housing, and disability data in 1hr:12mins:20secs of the recording. Update on adding the Commission on Veterans Affairs to the Joint Inclusion Committee. No new updates at this time; waiting to hear an update from the City’s Audit and Finance Committee’s meeting on the July 23rd. Update on email communications about possible collaboration with the College Student Commission. COMMISSIONER RICHARD BONDI shares that students are breaking for the summer, and that the JIC could readdress the discussion in the fall. Update …
BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, June 26, 2024 BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, June 26, 2024 The BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION convened in a REGULAR meeting on 26 June 2024, at the CITY OF AUSTIN PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER (PDC), 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE, ROOM 1405, in Austin, Texas. CHAIR TIMOTHY STOSTAD called the BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION (BSC) Meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Timothy Stostad, Vice Chair Blaine Campbell, Commissioners: Michael Francis, Luis Osta Lugo, Logan Schugart, Edward Selig. Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Commissioner Christopher Sokol. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No one appeared before the Commission for Public Communication. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING on April 24, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of April 24, 2024 were approved on COMMISSIONER SCHUGART’S motion, COMMISSIONER OSTA LUGO’s second, with no objections. COMMISSIONER SELIG was off dais. COMMISSIONER BENIGNO was absent. PUBLIC HEARINGS 2. Conduct a public hearing and consider an appeal regarding case number CL 2024-027512; Property address: 713 Vargas Road. COMMISSIONER OSTA LUGO moved to close the public hearing with no objections. COMMISSIONER CAMPBELL moved to adopt the findings of fact, conclusions of law and adopt staff’s recommendation to demolish the one-story portion of the residential structure with exception that timeframe be amended to 90 days while maintaining fencing to 1 1. BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, June 26, 2024 secure demo site; and, removal of electrical service from its current location and repair of the electrical system (which may include a construction loop) within 45 days, subject to a $70 per week penalty on the 46th day, COMMISSIONER OSTA LUGO second. The motion passed on an 7-0 vote. COMMISSIONER BENIGNO was absent. Conduct a public hearing and consider case numbers CL 2024-054444; Property address: 5916 N Lamar Boulevard. COMMISSIONER FRANCIS moved to close the public hearing, COMMISSIONER SCHUGART’s and COMMISSIONER SELIG’S second, with no objections. COMMISSIONER SCHUGART moved to adopt the findings of fact, conclusions of law and adopt City staff’s recommendation for repair of the commercial structure within 45 days, with a civil penalty of $1000 per week beginning on the 46th day from the date the order is mailed and continuing until compliance is achieved, VICE CHAIR CAMPBELL’S second. The motion carried on a 6-0 vote. COMMISSIONER OSTA LUGO was off dais. COMMISSIONER BENIGNO was absent. …
2024 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) Amendment Process Purpose of Presentation To provide an overview of the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) amendment process and share major proposed changes Background The City of Austin will adopt the International Code Council (ICC)’s 2024 IPMC updates from the current 2021 IPMC Austin Code Division established an internal amendment committee to draft proposed amendments to the code Purpose of proposed changes is to ensure public safety and maintain consistency with other city codes 309.1 Infestation • 309.1 Infestation. Structures shall be kept free from insect and rodent infestation. Structures in which insects or rodents are found shall be promptly exterminated by approved processes that will not be injurious to human health. After pest elimination, proper precautions shall be taken to prevent reinfestation. • 309.1 Infestation. Structures shall be kept free from insect, scorpion, bed bug, and rodent infestation. Structures in which insects or rodents are found shall be promptly exterminated by approved processes that will not be injurious to human health. After pest elimination, proper precautions shall be taken to prevent reinfestation. 2024 IPMC Adoption Timeline Review Phase #1 (Internal) October 2023 – December 2023 Stakeholder Engagement March 25, 2024 – May 2024 Legal Review July 2024 Implementation – January 1, 2025 Review Phase #2 (Internal) December 2023 – February 2024 Building and Standards Commission – June 26, 2024 City Council Hearing – September 12, 2024 Primary goal The proposed amendments aim to ensure public safety when unsafe or hazardous conditions are found on a property by requiring: • 100 amps minimum for a single family dwelling. • Cooling Facilities Major Changes in the 2024 IPMC Draft The following language was added as section 603 Cooling Facilities 603.7 Cooling Facilities Required. (1) Air conditioning. (A) An owner shall: (i) provide, and maintain, in operating condition, refrigerated air equipment capable of maintaining a room temperature of at least 15 degrees cooler than the outside temperature, but in no event higher than 85° F. in each habitable room; (ii) maintain all air conditioning systems, including air conditioning unit covers, panels, conduits, and disconnects, properly attached, and in operating condition. (B) The required room temperatures shall be measured 3 feet (914 mm) above the floor near the center of the room and 2 feet (610 mm) inward from the center of each exterior wall (C) It is a defense to prosecution under this paragraph that …
Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, June 26, 2024 DOWNTOWN COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING WEDNESDAY, June 26, 2024 The Downtown Commission convened the special called meeting on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Austin, TX in hybrid meeting format. COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE August Harris, Chair David Carroll Mike Lavigne Kimberly Levinson Anne Charlotte Patterson Spencer Schumacher Sania Shifferd COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY Ralph E Ishmael, Jr. Vice-Chair Liz Coufal Jennifer Franklin Amy Mok Tania Ortega CALL TO ORDER Chair Harris called the meeting of the Downtown Commission to order at 5:33 pm. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No speakers. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission May 15, 2024 meeting. The minutes from the meeting on 05/15/24 were approved on Commissioner Levinson’s motion, Commissioner Shifferd’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Cardona-Beiler and Major were absent. Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes STAFF BRIEFING Wednesday, June 26, 2024 2. Presentation on the Downtown Austin Plan by Chad Sharrard and Jill Amezcua, Austin Planning Department. The presentation was made by Chad Sharrard, Planner Senior, Planning Department; Jill Amezcua, Program Manager II, Planning Department; and Matthew Schmidt, Program Manager III, Economic Development Department. 3. Presentation on the Economic and Cultural District Framework Policy by Matthew Schmidt, Economic Development Department. The presentation was made by Matthew Schmidt, Program Manager III, Economic Development Department. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair. The motion to override the four consecutive term limit and nominate Commissioner Harris as Chair was made by Commissioner Ishmael, seconded by Commissioner Lavigne and approved on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Cardona-Beiler and Major were absent. The motion to elect Commissioner Harris as Chair was made by Commissioner Ishmael, seconded by Commissioner Ortega and approved on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Cardona-Beiler and Major were absent. The motion to elect Commissioner Ishmael as Vice Chair was made by Commissioner Levinson, seconded by Commissioner Shifferd and approved on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Cardona-Beiler and Major were absent. 5. Approve a recommendation to Council to update the Downtown Austin Plan and create an overseeing department charged with implementing the elements of the updated plan. A motion to approve the recommendation was made by Commissioner Levinson and seconded by Commissioner Shifferd. The following amendment was motioned by Commissioner Carroll and seconded by Vice Chair Ishmael. The amendment was to add the following under Item 7: “r. Urban Design …
ETHICS REVIEW COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES JUNE 26, 2024 The Ethics Review Commission convened in a Regular Commission meeting on June 26, 2024, at City Hall, Boards & Commissions Room #1101, at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas and via Videoconference. Chair Michael Lovins called the Ethics Review Commission Meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Michael Lovins, Vice-Chair Haksoon Andrea Low, Secretary Nguyen Stanton-Adams, and Commissioners Amy Casto, Edward Espinoza, Jacob Loehr, and William Ross Pumfrey were present at City Hall. Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Adam Materne. Commissioners Absent: Mary Kahle and Alysa Nuñez. City Staff in Attendance: Lizette Benitez, Staff Liaison; Caroline Webster, Commission Executive Liaison & Assistant City Attorney; Keith Reeves, Communications and Public Information Administrator; and Mia Warner, Strategic Communications Consultant. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No one registered to speak during public communication. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Ethics Review Commission Regular meeting on April 24, 2024. Vice-Chair Low’s motion to adopt the minutes was seconded by Commissioner Casto, however after further discussion from the Commission no action was taken on this motion. Secretary Stanton-Adams’ motion to amend Vice-Chair Low’s initial motion and move to adopt the minutes with amendments and a statement explaining why the role of parliamentarian was not elected during the annual officer elections passed on an 8-0 vote of all members present. Commissioner Pumfrey seconded the motion. Voting in favor: Chair Lovins, Vice-Chair Low, Secretary Stanton-Adams and Commissioners Casto, Espinoza, Loehr, Materne, Pumfrey. Commissioners Kahle and Nuñez were absent. Commissioner Casto’s motion to reconsider Secretary Stanton-Adams’ motion and exclude the parliamentarian statement from the minutes failed on a 5-2 vote of all members present. Voting in favor: Chair Lovins, Vice-Chair Low and Commissioners Casto, Espinoza and 1 Loehr. Voting against: Secretary Stanton-Adams and Commissioners Materne and Pumfrey. Commissioners Kahle and Nuñez were absent. The Commission then went back to Secretary Stanton-Adams’ motion to amend Vice-Chair Low’s initial motion and approve the minutes with amendments including adding the parliamentarian statement to the April minutes. Secretary Stanton-Adams’ motion was approved on an 8-0 vote of all members present. Voting in favor: Chair Lovins, Vice-Chair Low, Secretary Stanton-Adams and Commissioners Casto, Espinoza, Loehr, Materne and Pumfrey. Commissioners Kahle and Nuñez were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding updates to the City Council Candidate Forum Planning. Caroline Webster provided a brief refresher to the Commission of the …
CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Joseph Bowie (Vela); Robert Thornton-V Chair (Alter, R); VACANT (Kelly), Kyle Smith (Pool), Bobbi Joe Foster (Ellis) Bill Harris(Alter), Robert Butler(Watson), Stephen Cox (Madison) REGULAR CALLED MEETING MECHANICAL AND PLUMBING BOARD Tuesday June 25 @ 9:30 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 Joseph Cooper(Fuentes), Ramon Perez(Velasquez), VACANT(Qadri) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES- 1. Approve the Minutes from Regular Called Meeting from March 27, 2024 DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Austin Water- Laundry to Landscape. Local amendments to the 2024 Uniform Plumbing Code DISCUSSION and ACTION 3. Approve a recommendation for the Uniform Mechanical Code (UMC) 4. Approve a recommendation for the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) 5. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS for July 23rd 2024 ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Rick Arzola at Development Services Department, Building Inspections, at (512) 974-2417, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information of the Mechanical and Plumbing Board, please contact Rick Arzola at 512-974-2417
REGULAR CALLED MEETING of the HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION June 25, 2024 at 6:00 P.M. CITY OF AUSTIN PERMITTING & DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1401/1402 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 Some members of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Christi Vitela, 512-974-2792, christi.vitela@austintexas.gov. Kevin Jackson Jr Vanessa Maldonado Jesús Perales Leonor Vargas CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Ivanna Neri, Chair Daniela Silva, Vice Chair Amanda Afifi Dulce Castañeda Lyssette Galvan CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on May 28, 2024. 1. 2. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing regarding demographic data from the City of Austin Demographer Office. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Presentation by Jill Skinner and Deborah Nieves regarding Drive a Senior ATX. Presentation by Cathy McHorse regarding Affordable Child Care in the greater Austin area. Discussion on identifying goals for the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission. Presentation by Kathy Mitchell from Equity Action on the Community Investment Budget. Update on the recent work and accomplishments of the Joint Inclusion Committee. WORKING GROUP UPDATES FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Christi Vitela at the City Clerk’s Department, at 512-974-2792, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission please contact Christi Vitela at 512-974-2792 or christi.vitela@austintexas.gov.
1. 2. HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, May 28, 2024 The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St in Austin, Texas. Chair Neri called the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Ivanna Neri, Chair Daniela Silva, Vice Chair Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Amanda Afifi Dulce Castañeda Kevin Jackson Jr. Jesús Perales Leonor Vargas PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Cathy McHorse – Affordable Childcare Now Initiative APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission’s regular meeting on 4/23/24. The minutes from the meeting on 04/23/2024 were approved on Vice Chair Silva’s motion, Commissioner Perales’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Jackson was off the dais. Commissioners Galvan and Maldonado were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS Cara Bertron, Program Manager II - Planning Department - Sharing draft Equity-Based Preservation Plan for feedback. 1 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. The presentation was given by Cara Bertron, Program II, Historic Preservation Office, Planning Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discuss FY25 budget recommendation updates. Chair Neri, Vice Chair Silva and Commissioner Afifi provided updates. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Approve a Budget & Policy Priorities Workgroup. No action taken. Approve a Language Access Workgroup. The motion to approve the formation of a Language Access Workgroup to follow up on Recommendation 20240326-010 and possibly provide another report or recommendation was approved on Commissioner Afifi’s motion, Vice Chair Silva’s second on a 6-1 vote. Commissioner Castañeda voted nay. Commissioners Galvan and Maldonado were absent. Commissioner Afifi will primarily lead the Language Access Workgroup and Vice Chair Silva will provide secondary support. Approve a Public Safety & Immigrant Affairs Workgroup. The motion to approve the formation of a Public Safety & Immigrant Affairs Workgroup to monitor Senate Bill 4 and provide a budget recommendation was approved on Vice Chair Silva’s motion, Commissioner Vargas’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Galvan and Maldonado were absent. The Public Safety & Immigrant Affairs Workgroup membership includes Chair Neri and Commissioners Castañeda, Perales and Vargas. Approve an Arts and Culture Workgroup. The motion to approve the formation of an Arts and Culture Workgroup to improve the application process for culture and arts funding and provide feedback regarding Spanish speaking access was approved on Vice Chair …
¿Porqué Invertir en Cuidado Infantíl Económico? Apoya a las familias trabajadoras: El acceso a guarderías económicas es esencial para las familias trabajadoras y que desean participar en la educación o capacitación para empleo. Al ampliar los servicios de cuidado infantil, ayudamos para que los padres mantengan sus empleos y procuren avances profesionales, que utlimadamente resulta en mejor estabilidad económica y desarrollo de nuestra comunidad. Programas de calidad en la primera infancia tienen un impacto significativo en el éxito futuro de los niños: Los que asisten a estos programas tienen cinco veces más probabilidades de leer con competencia en tercer grado, graduarse, y asistir a la universidad. Cuando invertimos en el cuidado infantíl, invertimos en el futuro de nuestros hijos. Programas de calidad extracurriculares y los de verano aumentan las habilidades académicas y desarrollan habilidades de los jóvenes para futuras carreras, mejoran su asistencia escolar, apoyan la salud mental y física, y las familias trabajadoras se benefician porque sus hijos participan en actividades sanas cuando no hay clases. Acceso al cuidado infantíl no solo apoya a los padres que trabajan, sino que también contribuye a mejorar la educación de los niños: Permite que los padres mantengan mejor equilibrio entre el trabajo y la vida personal; más felicidad para las familias, crea comunidades fuertes y vibrantes. Los Fondos Serían Para: Mayor Acceso con impacto a 10,000 niños anualmente incluyendo más horas y en las zonas más necesitadas. Costos más económicospara familias en diversas condiciones, ayudando a cubrir la diferencia entre el costo de cuidado infantíl y lo que las familias pueden pagar. Mejores sueldos y capacitación para reclutar, instruir, y retener personal de las guarderías. “ “ El cuidado infantíl económico es la salvación de las familias que luchan para sobrevivir. Por eso estamos tomando este paso gigantesco para remediar la carga económica de las familias trabajadoras y asegurar que todo niño de cualquier condición económica pueda acceder el cuidado y ambiente acogedor merecido”. Judge Andy Brown La falta de cuidado infantíl económico retrasa nuestra economía, comercios, y familias, sin duda. Por lo tanto, yo apoyo totalmente aumentar la inversión pública en programas de cuidado infantíl y aprendizaje. Acceso al cuidado infantíl de calidad y económico, no solo es cuestión de familias- es cuestión de la fuerza laboral, y económico que impacta a las empresas en todo sector. Inversiones en el cuidado infantíl deberían ser consideradas como inversiones de infrastructura". Bobby Jenkins, …
Coalition Meeting June 20, 2024 Affordable Childcare Now is a broad coalition convened by United Way for Greater Austin that comprises of Travis County civic organizations, businesses, and community members who support equitable access to affordable, quality childcare for all. 3 Benefits of Quality Childcare 7 The Case for Significant Investments in Childcare ➔ Workforce ➔ Affordability ➔ Accessibility ➔ School Readiness ➔ Ongoing School Success ➔ Market Failure ➔ Equity ➔ Social Returns “It’s time to start treating childcare as essential infrastructure — just as worthy of funding as roads and fiber optic cables.” Melinda Gates, 2021 8 Background: ➔The Success By 6 Coalition (SX6) has coordinated community-wide early childhood efforts since 2012. There are more than 100 organizations in the Coalition including local ISD’s, nonprofit partners, childcare programs, and County & City programs. ➔The Children’s Funding Project has provided technical assistance to support SX6 strategic planning to conduct a local cost analysis to understand gaps in funding for our early childhood education systems. It used revenue and local costs from 60 different For Profit and Nonprofit centers ➔Formed in 2000, the Learn All the Time Network (LATT) is the central Texas organizing intermediary for afterschool and summer programs. ➔LATT consists of 40 youth-service organizations including local ISDs, Travis County and City of Austin programs, and nonprofit providers. 10 Goals & Guiding Principles ➔ Increase Access ➔ Increase Access ➔ Improve Affordability ➔ Improve Affordability ➔ Invest in Quality ➔ Invest in Quality ➔ Grow the Workforce ➔ Grow the Workforce ➔ Strengthen the System ➔ Strengthen the System Adapted from Travis County Court Briefing ➔ Ground Solutions in Data ➔ Ground Solutions in Data ➔ Seek Equity ➔ Seek Equity ➔ Leverage Existing Assets ➔ Leverage Existing Assets ➔ Ensure Accountability and ➔ Ensure Accountability and Efficiency Efficiency 11 Recommended Strategies for Investment Collectively, we are bringing four proposed strategies for investing dedicated funding to increase access to affordable, high-quality child care on the cradle to career continuum. The Children’s Funding Project (CFP) Working Group identified strategies to increase access to early childhood care. Commissioner Travillion advocated and collaborated with Learn All the Time to develop strategies to provide afterschool/ summer care for school age children. Adapted from Travis County Court Briefing ➔ Expand Slots Early Childhood Afterschool/Summer ➔ Expand care in early ◆ ◆ morning, evening and weekend hours ➔ Build quality and capacity Early Childhood Afterschool/Summer …
