MUNICIPAL CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Monday May 11, 2026 MUNICIPAL CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION MINUTES REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, MAY 11, 2026 The Municipal Civil Service Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, May 11, 2026, at 5202 E. Ben White Blvd., Suite 500, in Austin, Texas. Chair Kevin Mullen called the Municipal Civil Service Commission meeting to order at 9:35 a.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kevin Mullen, Chair Kavita Gupta, Vice Chair Melissa Rogers John Umphress PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Municipal Civil Service Commission Regular Meeting on March 23, 2026. The minutes from the Municipal Civil Service Commission regular meeting on March 23, 2026, were approved on Commissioner Rogers’ motion, Commissioner Umphress’ second on a 4-0 vote. HEARING 2. Conduct a hearing in open or closed session, pursuant to 551.074 of the Texas Government Code (personnel exception), on the appeal filed by Keiona Ausbie regarding their Discharge from Austin Police. The Municipal Civil Service Commission considered a request from Victoria Lewis-Dunn, representative of Keiona Ausbie, to have their appeal heard in closed session pursuant to 551.074 of the Texas Local Government Code (personnel exception). The motion to conduct the hearing in closed session, pursuant to 551.074 of the Texas Local Government Code (personnel exception), was approved on Chair Mullen’s motion, Commissioner Rogers’ second on a 4-0 vote. Chair Mullen recessed the meeting to go into closed session at 9:50 a.m. 1 MUNICIPAL CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Monday May 11, 2026 The hearing on the appeal filed by Kieona Ausbie regarding their Discharge from Austin Police was conducted in closed session pursuant to 551.074 of the Texas Local Government Code (personnel exception). 3. Deliberate in open or closed session, pursuant to 551.074 of the Texas Government Code (personnel exception), on the appeal filed by Keiona Ausbie regarding their Discharge from Austin Police. The Municipal Civil Service Commission deliberated in closed session on the appeal filed by Keiona Ausbie regarding their Discharge from Austin Police, pursuant to 551.074 of the Texas Government Code (personnel exception). Chair Mullen reconvened the Municipal Civil Service Commission meeting at 6:37 p.m. 4. Action and approval on the appeal filed by Keiona Ausbie regarding their Discharge from Austin Police. The motion to grant Keiona Ausbie’s appeal, to rescind the decision made by the City of Austin in the Discharge of Keiona Ausbie from Austin Police, and …
Municipal Civil Service Municipal Civil Service Contingent Hiring Update Contingent Hiring Update Austin Human Resources | July 13, 2026 Background In October 2024, the Municipal Civil Service Commission recommended that the City Council approve a 12-month pilot to waive the posting requirement for specific positions for Citywide hiring. The City Council approved the waiver on November 21, 2024. The pilot began in January 2025 and ended in December 2025. In January 2026, the Municipal Civil Service Commission approved a recommendation extending the Contingent Hire Pilot through December 2026. The City Council approved the waiver on March 12, 2026, through December 2026. 2 Contingent Hiring Guidelines were developed stating that all departments are eligible to participate in the contingent hiring if they have titles on the approved list. The process eliminated the posting requirement for those titles. Eligible events included in the pilot: City-sponsored job fairs University job events Reentry-initiative programs Community job events City-sponsored, community, or public events where contingent offers are provided are advertised to allow current employees and temporary employees the ability to participate. 3 Contingent Hiring Process All candidates for vacant positions must complete an interview process where they are: Evaluated for Merit and Fitness Merit: Demonstrated education, training, experience, performance, knowledge, skills, ability, licenses, or certifications. Fitness: Physical and/or mental ability to do a job with or without accommodation. Screened to meet minimum & preferred qualifications Contingent offer is made Complete any assessments required for the position. Successfully pass any required background checks. Submit an application 4 Contingent Hiring Successes 2025 Austin’s 14th Annual Career Expo Wednesday, April 2, 2025, Palmer Events Center 41 vacant positions were available 108 interviews conducted 40 contingent offers made Other Various Events 26 interviews conducted 9 contingent offers made 5 Contingent Hiring Successes 2026 Austin’s 15th Annual Career Expo Wednesday, April 8, 2026, Palmer Events Center 6 job titles with multiple vacancies 121 interviews conducted 25 contingent offers made 6 Next Steps Reviewing the Hiring, Promotions, and Lateral Transfers Procedure Small group discussions hosted by the City Manager’s Office – June & July 2026 Changes to the Procedure are forthcoming AHR will work with the Law Department and the City Manager’s Office …
City of Austin Contingent Hiring Titles through December 2026 Dept. Multi Multi Multi AE Aviation Aviation Aviation Aviation Aviation Aviation Multi ARR ARR Auditor APH Multi Multi SMBR AFM Multi Muni Court APH APH Multi Muni Court Muni Court Parks Multi Multi APH AE Multi Multi AE Multi Multi AE Multi Multi Multi APD Fleet Fleet Title Accountant I Accounting Associate I Administrative Assistant AE Utility Chemist I Airport Access Control Tech Airport Agent Airport Facility Representative Guest Services Specialist Airport Operations Communications Specialist Airport Operations Specialist Architect ARR Associate ARR Operator Trainee Auditor I Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Budget Analyst I Building & Grounds Assistant Business Development Counselor I Carpenter Cashier I Clinical Case Manager Community Health Worker I Community Worker Contract Management Specialist I Court Clerk Assistant Court Clerk Assistant, Bilingual Culture & Arts Instructor Customer Service Representative Customer Svc Assoc Disease Surveillance Specialist Distribution Electrician Helper Drainage Operations & Maintenance Assistant Electrician I EMS/ADMS SCADA Analyst I Engineering Associate A Engineering Technician A Elec Power Grid (EPG) GIS Analyst I Equipment Technician I Facility Svcs Representative Financial Analyst I Fingerprint Technician Fleet Equipment Technician I Fleet Tire Technician Min Education Requirement Bachelor's with major course work in a field related to the job High school or equivalent; substitutions allowed High school or equivalent; substitutions allowed Bachelor's with major course work in a field related to the job, substitutions allowed High school or equivalent Associate Degree, substitutions allowed High school or equivalent; substitutions allowed High school or equivalent High school or equivalent Bachelor's with major course work in a field related to the job, substitutions allowed Bachelor's with major course work in a field related to the job None None Bachelor's with major course work in a field related to the job High school or equivalent Bachelor's with major course work in a field related to the job None Bachelor's with major course work in a field related to the job, substitutions allowed High school or equivalent; substitutions allowed High school or equivalent Master's Degree with major course work in a field related to the job High school or equivalent High school or equivalent Bachelor's with major course work in a field related to the job, substitutions allowed High school or equivalent High school or equivalent Associate Degree, substitutions allowed High school or equivalent High school or equivalent Bachelor's with major course work in a field related to the …
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 BYLAWS OF THE Municipal Civil Service Commission ARTICLE 1. NAME. The name of the commission is the Municipal Civil Service Commission. ARTICLE 2. PURPOSE AND DUTIES. The purpose and duties of the commission are as follows: (1) hear appeals and make final, binding decisions in the case of municipal civil service employees covered under Article IX of the City Charter who have been discharged, suspended, demoted, denied a promotion, or put on disciplinary probation; (2) recommend the adoption of civil service rules after receipt of proposed rules by the Human Resources Director and perform services under the civil service rules as provided in Article IX, Section 2 of the City Charter; (3) perform other duties regarding the municipal civil service, not inconsistent with Article IX of the City Charter, that the City Council may require; (4) issue subpoenas and subpoenas duces tecum to witnesses, whether at the request of interested parties or on its own motion, when reasonably necessary to obtain pertinent evidence at a hearing or investigation; (5) administer oaths to witnesses appearing at a hearing or investigation; and (6) conduct any investigations it may consider desirable or which it may be required to make by the City Council or the City Manager concerning the administration of municipal civil service, and report its findings and recommendations to the City Council; ARTICLE 3. MEMBERSHIP. (A) The commission is composed of five members appointed by the city council, each a qualified voter of the City. (B) A commissioner may be removed before the end of the commissioner’s term only for cause, and after receiving a written statement of the reasons for removal and a public hearing before the City Council, if the commissioner requests a hearing. (C) Commission members shall be appointed for a term of three years, except that the initial members shall serve for a term of one, two or three years as designated in Resolution No. 20130509-036. The term expires on May 9th of the first, second or third anniversary. (D) An individual commission member may not act in an official capacity or speak on behalf of the board except …
Municipal Civil Service Commission 2027 Regular Meeting Schedule January 11, 2027 January 25, 2027 July 12, 2027 July 26, 2027 February 8, 2027 August 9, 2027 February 22, 2027 August 23, 2027 March 8, 2027 September 13, 2027 March 22, 2027 September 27, 2027 April 12, 2027 April 26, 2027 May 10, 2027 May 24, 2027 October 11, 2027 October 25, 2027 November 8, 2027 November 22, 2027 June 14, 2027 December 13, 2027 June 28, 2027 December 27, 2027
REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT MONDAY, July 13, 2026 AT 5:30 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, COUNCIL CHAMBERS, ROOM 1001 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT 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 to speak remotely, contact Elaine Ramirez at 512-974-2202 or email elaine.ramirez@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: ___Jeffery Bowen (Chair) ___Margaret Shahrestani (Vice-Chair) ___Haseeb Abdullah ___Thomas Ates ___Sameer S Birring ___ Jessica Cohen ___ Melissa Hawthorne ___Yung-ju Kim ___Bianca A Medina-Leal ___Brian Poteet ___Michael Von Ohlen ___Corry L Archer-McClellan (Alternate) ___Suzanne Valentine (Alternate) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 4 speakers signed up/register prior (no later than noon the day before the meeting) 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 Board of Adjustment Regular meeting on June 8, 2026 On-Line Link: June 8, 2026 draft minutes PUBLIC HEARINGS Discussion and action on the following cases New variance cases: 2. C15-2026-0023 Samantha Riddell for John L Lohr 2205 Quarry Road On-Line Link: ITEM02 ADV PACKET; PRESENTATION The applicant is requesting a variance(s) from the Land Development Code, Section 25-2-515 (Rear Yard of a Through Lot) from setback requirements to decrease the minimum rear yard setback (adjacent to W 12th St) from 25 feet (required) to 20 feet (requested) in order to rebuild a detached garage in an “SF-3-NP”, Single-Family Residence-Neighborhood Plan zoning district. (West Austin Neighborhood Group) Note: Per LDC 25-2-515 Rear Yard of Through Lot for a Through Lot, a rear yard must comply with the minimum requirements applicable to a front yard. 3. C15-2026-0024 Linda Sullivan for Bennett Leventhal & Young Shin Kim 3408 Mount Bonnell Road On-Line Link: ITEM03 ADV PACKET; NO PRESENTATION The applicant is requesting a variance(s) from the Land Development Code, Section 25-2- 492 (Site Development Regulations) from impervious coverage requirements to increase I.C. from 45% (maximum allowed) to 51% (requested), existing (56.25%), in order to …
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, June 8, 2026 The BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT convened in a Regular meeting on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 301 West 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Jeffery Bowen called the Board of Adjustment Meeting to order at 5:36 PM. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance in-Person: Jeffery Bowen-Chair, Haseeb Abdullah, Sameer S Birring, Bianca A. Medina-Leal, Michael Von Ohlen, Corry Archer-McClellan-Alternate Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Maggie Shahrestani-Vice Chair, Tommy Ates (late 6:10pm), Yung-ju Kim, Brian Poteet, Suzanne Valentine-Alternate Board Members/Commissioners Absent: Jessica Cohen, Melissa Hawthorne APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Board of Adjustment Regular meeting on May 11, 2026 On-Line Link: May 11, 2026 draft minutes The minutes from the meeting on May 11, 2026, were approved on Board Member Haseeb Abdullah, Board Member Corry L Archer-McClellan second, on 10-0 Vote (Board member Thomas Ates-no vote-late). PUBLIC HEARINGS Discussion and action on the following cases Item05 C15-2026-0014 -Withdrawn by the applicant New variance cases: 2. C15-2026-0020 Leonard Winn and Katherine Winn 6508 Highpoint Cove On-Line Link: ITEM02 ADV PACKET ; PRESENTATION The applicant is requesting a variance from the Land Development Code, Section 25- 2-899 (Fences as Accessory Uses) to increase the height from six (6) feet (maximum allowed) to eight feet (8’) feet (requested), in order to erect a fence along street side (North) property line in a “SF-2-NP”, Single-Family-Neighborhood Plan zoning district (University Hills Neighborhood Plan). Note: The Land Development Code 25-2-899 Fences as Accessory Uses (A) Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, a fence: (1) is permitted as an accessory use in any zoning district; and (2) must comply with the requirements of this section. (B) In this section: (1) an ornamental fence is a fence with an open design that has a ratio of solid material to open space of not more than one to four; and (2) a solid fence is a fence other than an ornamental fence. (C) The height restrictions of this section do not apply to an ornamental fence. (D) Except as otherwise provided in this section, a solid fence constructed along a property line may not exceed a height of six feet measured from the natural grade up. (E) If there is a change in grade of at least one foot measured along any run of a solid fence along a property line, then the portion of the fence where …
BOA GENERAL REVIEW COVERSHEET CASE: C15-2026-0023 BOA DATE: Monday, July 13th, 2026 ADDRESS: 2205 Quarry Rd COUNCIL DISTRICT: 10 OWNER: John L Lohr AGENT: Samantha Riddell ZONING: SF-3-NP (WANG) LEGAL DESCRIPTION: E 64.5 FT OF LOT 4 BLK 2 WESTFIELD A VARIANCE REQUEST: LDC, Section 25-2-515 (Rear Yard of a Through Lot) from setback requirements to decrease the minimum rear yard setback (adjacent to W 12th St) from 25 feet (required) to 20 feet (requested). SUMMARY: rebuild a detached garage ISSUES: mature trees; existing garage in same location destroyed by fire ZONING LAND USES Site North South East West SF-3-NP SF-3-NP SF-3-NP SF-3-NP SF-3-NP Single-Family Single-Family Single-Family Single-Family Single-Family NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANIZATIONS: Austin Independent School District Austin Neighborhoods Council Central West Austin Neighborhood Plan Contact Team Friends of Austin Neighborhoods Preservation Austin Save Barton Creek Assn. TNR BCP – Travis County Natural Resources West Austin Neighborhood Group ITEM02/1 June 24, 2026 Samantha Riddell 2205 Quarry Rd Austin TX, 78703 Property Description: E 64.5 FT OF LOT 4 BLK 2 WESTFIELD A Re: C15-2026-0023 Dear Samantha, Austin Energy (AE) has reviewed your application for the above referenced property, requesting that the Board of Adjustment consider a variance(s) from – LDC-25-2-515 at address 2205 Quarry Rd. Austin Energy does not oppose this request, provided that any proposed or existing improvements follow Austin Energy’s Clearance and Safety Criteria, the National Electric Safety Code, and OSHA requirements. Any removal or relocation of existing facilities will be at the owner’s/applications expense. Please use this link to be advised of our clearance and safety requirements which are additional conditions of the above review action: https://library.municode.com/tx/austin/codes/utilities_criteria_manual?nodeId=S1AUENDECR_1 .10.0CLSARE If you require further information or have any questions regarding the above comments, please contact our office. Thank you for contacting Austin Energy. Ashleigh Woolf, Project Assistant Austin Energy Public Involvement | Real Estate Services 4815 Mueller Blvd Austin, TX 78723 (512) 972-8400 ITEM02/2 -LIi CITY OF AUSTIN t ve1onmen SERVICESIDEPARTMENT De Building a Better and Safer Austin Together Board of Adjustment General/Parking Variance Application ~ I Phone: 311 (or 512-974-2000 outside Austin) For submittal and fee information, see td· ·t Id I t r t WARNING: Filing of this appeal stops all affected construction activity. This application is a fillable PDF that can be completed electronically. To ensure your information is saved, click here to Save the form to your computer, then open your copy and continue. The Tab key …
BOA GENERAL REVIEW COVERSHEET CASE: C15-2026-0024 BOA DATE: Monday, July 13th, 2026 ADDRESS: 3408 Mount Bonnell Rd COUNCIL DISTRICT: 10 OWNER: Bennett Leventhal & AGENT: CleanTag Permits -Linda Sullivan Young Shin Kim ZONING: SF-3 LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 5 BLK A MOUNT BONNELL TERRACE SEC 1 VARIANCE REQUEST: LDC, Section 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from impervious coverage requirements to increase I.C. from 45% (maximum allowed) to 51% (requested), existing (56.25%) SUMMARY: complete a remodel/addition ISSUES: LDC restrictions, topography ZONING LAND USES Site North South East West SF-3 SF-3 SF-3 P LA Single-Family Single-Family Single-Family Greenbelt Lake Austin NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANIZATIONS: Austin Neighborhoods Council Friends of Austin Neighborhoods Highland Park West Balcones Area Neighborhood Assn. Long Canyon Phase II & III Homeowners Assn Inc. Preservation Austin TNR BCP – Travis County Natural Resources ITEM03/1 June 24, 2026 Ms.. Linda Sullivan 3408 Mount Bonnell Rd Austin TX, 78731 Property Description: LOT 5 BLK A MOUNT BONNELL TERRACE SEC 1 Re: C15-2026-0024 Dear Linda, Austin Energy (AE) has reviewed your application for the above referenced property, requesting that the Board of Adjustment consider a variance request from LDC Section 25-2-492 (D) at 3408 Mount Bonnell. Austin Energy does not oppose the request, provided that any proposed or existing improvements follow Austin Energy’s Clearance & Safety Criteria, the National Electric Safety Code, and OSHA requirements. All signage will need to stay out of Austin Energy easements and 5’ from existing underground electric lines. Any removal or relocation of existing facilities will be at the owner’s/applicant’s expense. Please use this link to be advised of our clearance and safety requirements which are additional conditions of the above review action: https://library.municode.com/tx/austin/codes/utilities_criteria_manual?nodeId=S1AUENDECR_1 .10.0CLSARE If you require further information or have any questions regarding the above comments, please contact our office. Thank you for contacting Austin Energy. If you require further information or have any questions regarding the above comments, please contact our office. Thank you for contacting Austin Energy. Ashley Robinson, project assistant Austin Energy Public Involvement | Real Estate Services 2500 Montopolis Drive Austin, TX 78741 (512) 322-6050 ITEM03/2 ITEM03/3 Portion of the City of Austin Land Development Code applicant is seeking a variance from: 25-2-492 (D) (Site Development Regulations) to increase the maximum impervious cover from ____________________________________________________________________________ 45% (required limit) to 51% (requested) in order to remodel an existing single-family residence ____________________________________________________________________________ in an SF-3 zoning district. Exisitng impervious coverage is 56.25% ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ Section 2: Variance …
BOA GENERAL REVIEW COVERSHEET CASE: C15-2026-0027 BOA DATE: Monday, July 13th, 2026 ADDRESS: 6302 Shadow Valley Dr COUNCIL DISTRICT: 10 OWNER: Paul & Heather Fink AGENT: Denali Pools -Jacob Rogers ZONING: SF-3 LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 28 HIGHLAND HILLS SEC 9 PHS 2 VARIANCE REQUEST: LDC, Section 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from impervious coverage requirements to increase I.C. from 45% & 6,008 square feet (maximum allowed) to 54.5% & 7,280 square feet (requested) SUMMARY: remodel/addition of a pool and deck ISSUES: topography, protected trees, & utility easements ZONING LAND USES Site North South East West SF-3 SF-3 SF-3 SF-3 SF-3 Single-Family Single-Family Single-Family Single-Family Single-Family NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANIZATIONS: Austin Neighborhoods Council Friends of Austin Neighborhoods NW Austin Neighbors Northwest Austin Civic Association TNR BCP – Travis County Natural Resources ITEM04/1 ITEM04/2 ITEM04/3 ITEM04/4 ITEM04/5 ITEM04/6 ITEM04/7 ITEM04/8 ITEM04/9 ITEM04/10 ITEM04/11 ITEM04/12 SF Item 13,353 Lot Area Allowed IC 6,008 Existing IC 7,280 Proposed IC 7,280 0 Net Increase ITEM04/13 ITEM04/14 ITEM04/15 ITEM04/16
DENALI POOLS Board of Adjustment Variance Request 6302 Shadow Valley Drive July 13, 2026 Jacob Rogers, Agent for Denali Pools On behalf of Paul & Heather Fink ITEM04/1-PRESENTATION The Property Lot 28, Highland Hills Section 9, Phase 2 | Zoning: SF-3 Address 6302 Shadow Valley Drive, Austin, TX 78731 Lot Size 13,353 SF Original Pool Built 1976 — predates current Land Development Code Impervious Cover Limit 45% (6,008 SF) under SF-3 zoning Site survey — Hodgkiss Surveying, 11/24/2020 ITEM04/2-PRESENTATION The Pool Is Failing Original 1976 structure — cracked shell, can no longer hold water Structural cracking throughout the pool shell Heaving and separation at the deck joints Chronic water loss — cannot be repaired further Deteriorating stone retaining wall and surrounding hardscape A 50-year-old structure at the end of its serviceable life. ITEM04/3-PRESENTATION Deterioration in Detail Current condition of the pool and deck Algae accumulation, organic debris, and visible wear on the coping and decking are consistent with a shell that has been slowly failing for years and can no longer maintain proper water chemistry. ITEM04/4-PRESENTATION Mature Protected Trees Constrain the Lot Three large Live Oaks limit where a pool can be built Tree #1 — 42.5" Live Oak Tree #2 — 35" Live Oak Tree #6 — 32" Live Oak These are large, established trees — decades old and protected under the City's tree ordinance. Their critical root zones (shown in green) surround the existing pool on three sides, leaving no reasonable alternate location on the lot. ITEM04/5-PRESENTATION Why the Existing Footprint Is the Only Option Two site-specific factors leave no alternative to rebuilding where the pool already sits: 1. Mature protected trees Three large Live Oaks and their root zones occupy most of the remaining usable yard, ruling out relocating the pool elsewhere on the lot. 2. Steep topography The survey shows significant grade change across the lot; the existing pool sits on the one graded, buildable area. Together, these constraints mean the only realistic path forward is to demolish and rebuild in the exact same footprint. ITEM04/6-PRESENTATION What We're Proposing Demolish the failing 1976 pool and rebuild in the exact same footprint. No expansion of the pool or decking No new impervious surface — zero net change in coverage Same location as the pool that has existed since 1976 Modern, code-compliant pool with required safety barriers Pool equipment relocated into the existing garage ITEM04/7-PRESENTATION Impervious Coverage Analysis …
CITY OF AUSTIN Board of Adjustment Decision Sheet ITEM 03 DATE: Monday June 8, 2026 CASE NUMBER: C15-2026-0021 ___Y____Thomas Ates (D1) ___Y____Bianca A Medina-Leal (D2) ___-____Jessica Cohen (D3) OUT ___Y____Yung-ju Kim (D4) ___-____Melissa Hawthorne (D5) OUT ___Y____Haseeb Abdullah (D6) ___Y____Sameer S Birring (D7) ___Y____Margaret Shahrestani (D8) ___Y____Brian Poteet (D9) ___Y____Michael Von Ohlen (D10) ___Y____Jeffery L Bowen (M) ___Y____Corry L Archer-McClellan (Alternate) (M) ___Y____Suzanne Valentine (Alternate) (M) ___-____VACANT (Alternate) (M) APPLICANT: George Siddall OWNER: George Siddall ADDRESS: 2101 ARPDALE STREET VARIANCE REQUESTED: The applicant is requesting a variance(s) from the Land Development Code, Section 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) (D) from setback requirements for a street side setback of 15 feet (required) to 0 feet (requested) in order to maintain a Carport in a “SF-3”, Single-Family zoning district. BOARD’S DECISION: The public hearing was closed by Chair Jeffery Bowen, Board Member Michael Von Ohlen’s motion to postpone to July 13, 2026, Board member Haseeb Abdullah second on 11-0 votes; POSTPONED TO JULY 13, 2026. FINDING: 1. The Zoning regulations applicable to the property do not allow for a reasonable use because: 2. (a) The hardship for which the variance is requested is unique to the property in that: (b) The hardship is not general to the area in which the property is located because: ITEM05/1 3. The variance will not alter the character of the area adjacent to the property, will not impair the use of adjacent conforming property, and will not impair the purpose of the regulations of the zoning district in which the property is located because: Elaine Ramirez Executive Liaison Jeffery Bowen Chairman forITEM05/2 ITEM05/3 ITEM05/4 ITEM05/5 ITEM05/6 ITEM05/7 Variance case C15-2026-0021, examples of covered parking near 2101 Arpdale 1 ITEM05/8 2 ITEM05/9 3 ITEM05/10 4 ITEM05/11 BOA GENERAL REVIEW COVERSHEET CASE: C15-2026-0021 BOA DATE: Monday, June 8th, 2026 ADDRESS: 2101 Arpdale St OWNER: George Siddall COUNCIL DISTRICT: 5 AGENT: N/A ZONING: SF-3 LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 1-2 BLK 9 RABB INWOOD HILLS VARIANCE REQUEST: LDC 25-2-492, setback requirements for a street side setback of 15 feet (required) to 0 feet (requested) SUMMARY: maintain a carport ISSUES: corner lot ZONING LAND USES Site North South East West SF-3 SF-3 SF-3 SF-3 SF-3 Single-Family Single-Family Single-Family Single-Family Single-Family NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANIZATIONS: Austin Independent School District Austin Neighborhoods Council Friends of Austin Neighborhoods Friends of Zilker Homeless Neighborhood Association Perry Grid 614 Preservation Austin Save our Springs Alliance South Central Coalition TNR BCP …
C15-2026-0021 / 2101 Arpdale St George Siddall additional presentation for July 13, 2026, BOA Meeting 1 ITEM05/1-PRESENTATION The house was built in 1950 on an unusually narrow corner lot (about 57 feet wide where most lots are more than 60 feet), which restricts the buildable area. The house was set back only 12 feet from the side street rather than the current requirement of 15 feet, and there is no other location for a driveway. The layout has minimal impervious cover and maximizes space for trees and gardening. Vehicles in the short drive are damaged by sun and acidic discharge and shedding of limbs from the large protected pecan tree next to the drive. 2101 Arpdale, view of driveway on Ann Arbor 2 ITEM05/2-PRESENTATION Most properties in the area are wider and require only a 5-foot side setback, allowing covered parking or awnings at least 12 feet deep alongside the house. Examples are shown in the photos beginning on page 4. In storms in May and June this year, broken tree limbs fell on at least ten properties within a block of 2101 Arpdale. Most of those properties have covered parking 5 feet or less from the side boundary, protecting vehicles from damage. In the case of 2101 Arpdale, strict adherence to the additional side setback denies the owner the reasonable protection of driveway parking that is otherwise code compliant and available to other properties in the area. The presentation submitted at the Board’s hearing on June 8, 2026, and the letter from the Zilker Neighborhood Association contain more information regarding possible code changes that could be relevant to this case. 3 ITEM05/3-PRESENTATION Variance case C15-2026-0021, examples of covered parking near 2102 Arpdale 4 ITEM05/4-PRESENTATION 5 ITEM05/5-PRESENTATION 6 ITEM05/6-PRESENTATION 7 ITEM05/7-PRESENTATION
BOA Monthly Report July 2025-June 2026 June 8, 2026 Granted 2 1. 25-2-899 (Fences as Accessory Uses) to increase the height (fence) 2. 25-2-832 (Private Schools)(1) to reduce the minimum required roadway width Postponed 1 1. 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) (D) from setback requirements for a street side setback Withdrawn 1 1. 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) (D) from setback requirements for a front setback Denied 0 Discussion Items 4 JUN 2026 Interpretations JUN 2026 BAAP 0 new inquiries 1 (Added JUN8# 2026) The deposition of the case items: Granted Postponed Withdrawn Denied Discussion Items 20 18 1 7 23 Board members absent: Jessica Cohen, Melissa Hawthorne (1 vacant alternate position) MAY 11, 2026 Granted 3 3. 25-10-128 (Neighborhood Commercial Sign District Regulations (B) to allow from one (1) freestanding sign (maximum allowed), to adding one (1) additional freestanding sign (total of two (2) 4. 25-2-492 Site Development Regulations) and North University Neighborhood Association NCCD Ord. No. 040826-58, PART 7 (Residential District)(1) from: lot size requirements to decrease minimum lot size, setback requirements for a front yard setback and from North University Neighborhood Association NCCD Ord. No. 040826-58 PART 6 (7) Parking (g) to reduce on-site parking 5. 25-2-779 (Small Lot Single-Family use) from: (F) (1) lot size requirements to decrease minimum lot size, (F) (4) (c) (i) from setback requirements for a front yard setback and Land Development Code, Section 25-2-735 (Festival Beach Subdistrict Regulations) (D)(1) from Impervious Coverage requirements to increase Postponed 1 2. 25-2-492 Site Development Regulations) (D) from setback requirements for a front setback Withdrawn 0 Denied 1 1. 25-2-814 (Service Station Use) (3) to increase queue lanes (Reconsideration request by neighbor of a previous approved case- denied) Discussion Items 4 APR 2026 Interpretations APR 2026 BAAP 0 new inquiries 0 (Added MAY11# 2026) The deposition of the case items: Granted Postponed Withdrawn Denied Discussion Items 18 17 0 7 19 Board members absent: Jessica Cohen, Bianca A. Medina-Leal (1 vacant alternate position) APRIL 13, 2026 Granted 6 1. 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from setback requirements to decrease the interior yard setback 2. 25-2-899 (Fences as Accessory Uses) to increase the height 3. 25-10-191 (Sign Setback Requirements), (F) to decrease the setback from street right-of-way, (F) (1) to increase height, (F) (2) to decrease clearance 4. 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from setback requirements to decrease the interior yard setback 5. 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from setback requirements …
CITY OF AUSTIN Board of Adjustment Decision Sheet ITEM02 DATE: Monday July 13, 2026 CASE NUMBER: C15-2026-0023 ___-____Thomas Ates (D1) OUT ___Y____Bianca A Medina-Leal (D2) ___-____Jessica Cohen (D3) OUT ___Y____Yung-ju Kim (D4) ___Y____Melissa Hawthorne (D5) ___Y____Haseeb Abdullah (D6) ___Y____Sameer S Birring (D7) ___-____Margaret Shahrestani (D8) OUT ___Y____Brian Poteet (D9) ___-____Michael Von Ohlen (D10) OUT ___Y____Jeffery L Bowen (M) ___Y____Corry L Archer-MccClellan (Alternate) (M) ___Y____Suzanne Valentine (Alternate) (M) ___-____VACANT (Alternate) (M) APPLICANT: Samantha Riddell OWNER: John L Lohr ADDRESS: 2205 QUARRY RD VARIANCE REQUESTED: The applicant is requesting a variance(s) from the Land Development Code, Section 25-2-515 (Rear Yard of a Through Lot) from setback requirements to decrease the minimum rear yard setback (adjacent to W 12th St) from 25 feet (required) to 20 feet (requested) in order to rebuild a detached garage in an “SF-3-NP”, Single-Family Residence-Neighborhood Plan zoning district. (West Austin Neighborhood Group) Note: Per LDC 25-2-515 Rear Yard of Through Lot for a Through Lot, a rear yard must comply with the minimum requirements applicable to a front yard. BOARD’S DECISION: Board Member Melissa Hawthorne’s motion to postpone to August 10, 2026, due to lack of quorum for voting purposes (only 9 board members), Board member Haseeb Abdullah second on 9-0 votes; POSTPONED TO AUGUST 10, 2026. FINDING: 1. The Zoning regulations applicable to the property do not allow for a reasonable use because: 2. (a) The hardship for which the variance is requested is unique to the property in that: (b) The hardship is not general to the area in which the property is located because: 3. The variance will not alter the character of the area adjacent to the property, will not impair the use of adjacent conforming property, and will not impair the purpose of the regulations of the zoning district in which the property is located because: Elaine Ramirez Executive Liaison Jeffery Bowen Chairman for
CITY OF AUSTIN Board of Adjustment Decision Sheet ITEM03 DATE: Monday July 13, 2026 CASE NUMBER: C15-2026-0024 ___-____Thomas Ates (D1) OUT ___Y____Bianca A Medina-Leal (D2) ___-____Jessica Cohen (D3) OUT ___Y____Yung-ju Kim (D4) ___Y____Melissa Hawthorne (D5) ___Y____Haseeb Abdullah (D6) ___Y____Sameer S Birring (D7) ___-____Margaret Shahrestani (D8) OUT ___Y____Brian Poteet (D9) ___-____Michael Von Ohlen (D10) OUT ___Y____Jeffery L Bowen (M) ___Y____Corry L Archer-MccClellan (Alternate) (M) ___Y____Suzanne Valentine (Alternate) (M) ___-____VACANT (Alternate) (M) APPLICANT: Linda Sullivan OWNER: Bennett Leventhal & Young Shin Kim ADDRESS: 3408 MOUNT BONNELL RD VARIANCE REQUESTED: The applicant is requesting a variance(s) from the Land Development Code, Section 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from impervious coverage requirements to increase I.C. from 45% (maximum allowed) to 51% (requested), existing (56.25%), in order to complete a remodel/addition in an “SF-3”, Single-Family Residence zoning district. BOARD’S DECISION: The public hearing was closed by Chair Jeffery Bowen, Board Member Melissa Hawthorne’s motion to approve, tie to document Item03/11 and 12 of the advance packet (see attachments), Board member Haseeb Abdullah second on 9-0 votes; GRANTED, TIE TO DOCUMENT ITEM03/11 and 12 OF THE ADVANCE PACKET (see attachments). FINDING: 1. The Zoning regulations applicable to the property do not allow for a reasonable use because: site was originally developed in 1979 prior to current LDC restrictions which at that time would allow 55% IC due to existing IC, which is legal and no compliant, the additions would not be able to be permitted being that there is a reduction to 49.94%, will be tied to document page 11 and 12 of the Advance Packet. 2. (a) The hardship for which the variance is requested is unique to the property in that: there are some extreme topography and retaining walls are necessary for any improvements on the rear lot. (b) The hardship is not general to the area in which the property is located because: the property was developed legally and in compliance at the time that it was constructed. 3. The variance will not alter the character of the area adjacent to the property, will not impair the use of adjacent conforming property, and will not impair the purpose of the regulations of the zoning district in which the property is located because: all reduction in IC as well as many caring for the property and upgrading it, so proposed additions are to rear of structure and overall reduction will have a positive impact. Elaine …
CITY OF AUSTIN Board of Adjustment Decision Sheet ITEM04 DATE: Monday July 13, 2026 CASE NUMBER: C15-2026-0027 ___-____Thomas Ates (D1) OUT ___Y____Bianca A Medina-Leal (D2) ___-____Jessica Cohen (D3) OUT ___Y____Yung-ju Kim (D4) ___Y____Melissa Hawthorne (D5) ___Y____Haseeb Abdullah (D6) ___Y____Sameer S Birring (D7) ___-____Margaret Shahrestani (D8) OUT ___Y____Brian Poteet (D9) ___-____Michael Von Ohlen (D10) OUT ___Y____Jeffery L Bowen (M) ___Y____Corry L Archer-MccClellan (Alternate) (M) ___Y____Suzanne Valentine (Alternate) (M) ___-____VACANT (Alternate) (M) APPLICANT: Jacob Rogers OWNER: Paul & Heather Fink ADDRESS: 6302 SHADOW VALLEY DR VARIANCE REQUESTED: The property contains an existing residential swimming pool and decking that have served the site for many years. The pool and deck are deteriorated, leaking, and failing. Strict application of the current impervious cover regulations would prevent replacement of this established improvement. The requested variance allows continued reasonable residential use without increasing the property's development intensity. The project does not add impervious cover. The property currently contains approximately 7,280 square feet of impervious cover, and the replacement pool and decking will remain within the existing footprint. BOARD’S DECISION: Board Member Melissa Hawthorne’s motion to postpone to August 10, 2026, due to lack of quorum for voting purposes (only 9 board members), Board member Haseeb Abdullah second on 9-0 votes; POSTPONED TO AUGUST 10, 2026. FINDING: 1. The Zoning regulations applicable to the property do not allow for a reasonable use because: 2. (a) The hardship for which the variance is requested is unique to the property in that: (b) The hardship is not general to the area in which the property is located because: 3. The variance will not alter the character of the area adjacent to the property, will not impair the use of adjacent conforming property, and will not impair the purpose of the regulations of the zoning district in which the property is located because: Elaine Ramirez Executive Liaison Jeffery Bowen Chairman for
CITY OF AUSTIN Board of Adjustment Decision Sheet ITEM 05 DATE: Monday July 13, 2026 CASE NUMBER: C15-2026-0021 ___-____Thomas Ates (D1) OUT ___Y____Bianca A Medina-Leal (D2) ___-____Jessica Cohen (D3) OUT ___Y____Yung-ju Kim (D4) ___Y____Melissa Hawthorne (D5) ___Y____Haseeb Abdullah (D6) ___Y____Sameer S Birring (D7) ___-____Margaret Shahrestani (D8) OUT ___Y____Brian Poteet (D9) ___-____Michael Von Ohlen (D10) OUT ___Y____Jeffery L Bowen (M) ___Y____Corry L Archer-MccClellan (Alternate) (M) ___Y____Suzanne Valentine (Alternate) (M) ___-____VACANT (Alternate) (M) APPLICANT: George Siddall OWNER: George Siddall ADDRESS: 2101 ARPDALE STREET VARIANCE REQUESTED: The applicant is requesting a variance(s) from the Land Development Code, Section 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) (D) from setback requirements for a street side setback of 15 feet (required) to 0 feet (requested) in order to maintain a Carport in a “SF-3”, Single-Family zoning district. BOARD’S DECISION: The public hearing was closed by Chair Jeffery Bowen, Board Member Michael Von Ohlen’s motion to postpone to July 13, 2026, Board member Haseeb Abdullah second on 11-0 votes; POSTPONED TO JULY 13, 2026. July 13, 2026: Board Member Melissa Hawthorne’s motion to postpone to August 10, 2026, due to lack of quorum for voting purposes (only 9 board members), Board member Haseeb Abdullah second on 9-0 votes; POSTPONED TO AUGUST 10, 2026. FINDING: 1. The Zoning regulations applicable to the property do not allow for a reasonable use because: 2. (a) The hardship for which the variance is requested is unique to the property in that: (b) The hardship is not general to the area in which the property is located because: 3. The variance will not alter the character of the area adjacent to the property, will not impair the use of adjacent conforming property, and will not impair the purpose of the regulations of the zoning district in which the property is located because: Elaine Ramirez Executive Liaison Jeffery Bowen Chairman for
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, July 13, 2026 The BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT convened in a Regular meeting on Monday, July 13, 2026, at 301 West 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Jeffery Bowen called the Board of Adjustment Meeting to order at 5:36 PM. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance in-Person: Jeffery Bowen-Chair, Haseeb Abdullah, Melissa Hawthorne, Corry Archer-McClellan-Alternate Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Sameer S Birring, Bianca A. Medina-Leal (late 5:43pm), Yung-ju Kim, Brian Poteet, Suzanne Valentine-Alternate Board Members/Commissioners Absent: Maggie Shahrestani-Vice Chair, Tommy Ates, Jessica Cohen (resigned), Michael Von Ohlen APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Board of Adjustment Regular meeting on May 11, 2026 On-Line Link: May 11, 2026 draft minutes The minutes from the meeting on May 11, 2026, were approved on Board Member Melissa Hawthorne, Board Member Haseeb Abdullah second, on 8-0 Vote (Board member Bianca Medina-Leal-no vote-late). PUBLIC HEARINGS Discussion and action on the following cases Item02 C15-2026-0023, Item04 C15-2026-0027 and Item05 C15-2026-0021 all postponed to August 10, 2026, due to lack of quorum for voting purposes (9 board members only). New variance cases: 2. C15-2026-0023 Samantha Riddell for John L Lohr 2205 Quarry Road On-Line Link: ITEM02 ADV PACKET; PRESENTATION The applicant is requesting a variance(s) from the Land Development Code, Section 25-2-515 (Rear Yard of a Through Lot) from setback requirements to decrease the minimum rear yard setback (adjacent to W 12th St) from 25 feet (required) to 20 feet (requested) in order to rebuild a detached garage in an “SF-3-NP”, Single-Family Residence-Neighborhood Plan zoning district. (West Austin Neighborhood Group) Note: Per LDC 25-2-515 Rear Yard of Through Lot for a Through Lot, a rear yard must comply with the minimum requirements applicable to a front yard. Board Member Melissa Hawthorne’s motion to postpone to August 10, 2026, due to lack of quorum for voting purposes (only 9 board members), Board member Haseeb Abdullah second on 9-0 votes; POSTPONED TO AUGUST 10, 2026. 3. C15-2026-0024 Linda Sullivan for Bennett Leventhal & Young Shin Kim 3408 Mount Bonnell Road On-Line Link: ITEM03 ADV PACKET; NO PRESENTATION The applicant is requesting a variance(s) from the Land Development Code, Section 25-2- 492 (Site Development Regulations) from impervious coverage requirements to increase I.C. from 45% (maximum allowed) to 51% (requested), existing (56.25%), in order to complete a remodel/addition in an “SF-3”, Single-Family Residence zoning district. The public hearing was closed by Chair Jeffery …
- REGULAR MEETING OF THE AUSTIN-TRAVIS COUNTY FOOD POLICY BOARD MONDAY, JULY 13, 2026, AT 5:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1406 6310 WILHELMINO DELCO DRIVE, AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board 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, contact Amanda Rohlich, (512) 974-1364, Amanda.Rohlich@austintexas.gov. CURRENT AUSTIN-TRAVIS COUNTY FOOD POLICY BOARD MEMBERS: Lisa Barden, Chair Andrea Abel Marissa Bell, Vice- Chair Beth Corbett Nitza Cuevas Kacey Hanson Seanna Marceaux Melody McClary Erin McDonald Natalie Poulos AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Board Member roll call and introduction of new and existing board members. 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 Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board Special Called Meeting on Monday, June 8, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding community gardens on City-owned land. Presentation by Lindsay Loftin, Community Garden Program Manager, Austin Parks and Recreation. 3. Staff briefing regarding Austin-Travis County Food Plan Implementation. Presentation by Edwin Marty, Food Policy Manager, Austin Climate Action & Resilience and Yaira Robinson, Assistant Director of Environmental Programs, Travis County. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Discuss the Annual Internal Review. Discuss advocacy points of contact for each board member, both at the City Council and County Commissioners Court level. Presentation and discussion regarding the working group to expand access to nutritious foods through improvement to existing materials and resources and explore alternate or expanded hours for existing resources. Presentation and discussion regarding the working group to participate in the USDA Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) application for funding for conservation easements as a regional partnership. Presentation and discussion regarding the working group to explore revenue generators such as sugar sweetened beverage tax, a surplus food donation requirement for events, and/or a percent conservation fund from all land purchases or new developments. Discussion of future strategic planning – delay until vacancies are …
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board Recommendation Number: [2026-7-13] (XXX is the agenda item number): [Healthy Food Worker Incentive and Rebate Pilot Program] WHEREAS, the Austin food and beverage industry is a cornerstone of the local economy, culture, and tourism sector and is among the largest employment sectors in the city; and WHEREAS, food and beverage workers face significant economic challenges, including low wages, limited access to healthcare benefits, and workplace instability, while many locally owned businesses operate on narrow profit margins that make investments in workforce supports difficult; and WHEREAS, independent and locally owned food and beverage businesses contribute significantly to Austin's unique culture, economic vitality, and neighborhood character, yet often face greater challenges than larger corporate operators in providing workforce benefits and absorbing increases in labor-related costs; and WHEREAS, the Austin-Travis County Food Plan, adopted by Austin City Council, includes Strategy 3.4, which calls for supporting livable wages for food workers through incentives such as rebates, tax incentives, and wage supplements for food system employers who pay a livable wage; and WHEREAS, improving job quality through higher wages, healthcare access, paid leave, and workforce stability advances the City's goals related to economic mobility, public health, workforce development, small business resiliency, and equitable economic opportunity; and WHEREAS, Chapter 380 of the Texas Local Government Code authorizes municipalities to establish economic development incentive programs that provide measurable public benefits and advance community priorities; and WHEREAS, a Healthy Food Worker Incentive and Rebate Pilot Program would provide an opportunity for the City of Austin to test and evaluate an innovative economic development tool that supports both food and beverage businesses and the workers who power Austin's local food economy; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board recommends that the Austin City Council direct the Economic Development Department, through its Business Incentives Division, to develop and implement a Chapter 380 Healthy Food Worker Incentive and Rebate Pilot Program for independent, locally owned food and beverage businesses operating within the City of Austin. . BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the pilot program should be designed to incentivize high-road employment practices, defined as business practices that invest in workers through quality jobs, competitive wages, benefits, opportunities for advancement, and safe, stable workplaces, in order to improve worker health, economic mobility, retention, and workplace stability, including but not limited to living wages, healthcare access, paid leave, workforce …
Who we are: The Austin/Travis County Food Plan is a five-year, comprehensive, community-driven vision and action plan requested by City Council to improve our local food system. The City- and County-adopted plan, which features nine goals and sixty-one practical strategies, won the 2025 Governance Award at the Milan Urban Food Policy Pact Global Forum. The Food Plan Implementation Collaborative is a large and diverse group of passionate professionals, volunteers and neighbors dedicated to bringing the Food Plan to life. Recent Wins: The Farm Incubator Collaborative has placed ten new farmers on land to implement regenerative farming practices (Goal 2). The Central Texas Farm to School Collaborative is advancing values-based food purchasing to improve student health and open markets for local and historically underserved farmers (Goal 5). The Central Texas Food System Dashboard, which tracks key Food Plan data and other indicators was developed by the Central Texas Food Bank with the support of City staff (Goal 9). The official Food Plan Progress Dashboard is publicly tracking all sixty-one Food Plan strategies, and a recent in-person convening gathered over eighty collaborators to share and coordinate (Goal 9). Our Next Steps: Food Plan collaborators have identified critical opportunities for action over the next 90 days, including: Growing local food (Goals 1,2) — Develop a map overlaying available, viable land for gardening with food access points, mobility routes and other relevant data. Supporting food workers (Goal 3) — Create a power-map of key food / beverage sector leaders and worker community leaders, then design an engagement process to surface the priorities of food service and farm workers. Buying & serving better food (Goal 5) — Create an outreach plan to connect more stakeholders to the Central Texas Farm to School Collaborative and develop a “Lunchbox Pepper Project” to test commitments between schools and local produce farmers. Getting food to people (Goals 4, 6) — Expand summer food access for families by disseminating information and referrals to Summer Meals Program sites; develop a shared directory of food access resources to inform a public resource map and hotline. Rescuing & reusing food (Goal 7) — Plan a mini-summit of food rescue actors to create shared network maps, develop messaging materials and a social media education campaign about the availability and value of food rescue. How Your Office Can Help: Review the adopted Food Plan and communicate your office’s priority strategies to your Food Policy Board …
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 BYLAWS OF THE Austin Travis County Food Policy Board ARTICLE 1. NAME. The name of the board is Austin Travis County Food Policy Board. ARTICLE 2. PURPOSE AND DUTIES. The purpose and duties of the board are as follows: to serve as an advisory body to the City Council and Travis County Commissioners Court concerning the need to improve the availability of safe, nutritious, locally, and sustainably-grown food at reasonable prices for all residents, particularly those in need, by coordinating the relevant activities of city and county government, as well as nonprofit organizations, and food and farming businesses. The Board shall: (1) monitor the availability, price and quality of food throughout the Austin and Travis County area; (2) collect data on the food security (i.e., access to an affordable, diversified local food supply) and the nutritional status of city residents; (3) inform city and county policy makers, administrators, and the public at large about the status of the region's food system and food security; (4) monitor and analyze the administration of city and county food and nutrition programs; (5) explore new means for the city and county to improve the local food economy, the availability, sustainability, accessibility, and quality of food and our environment, and assist city and county departments in the coordination of their efforts; (6) review availability and recommend measures to promote the preservation of agricultural land in the City of Austin and Travis County; and (7) recommend to the city and county adoption of measures that will improve existing local food production and add new programs, incentives, projects, regulations, or services. ARTICLE 3. MEMBERSHIP. (A) The board is composed of thirteen members. Seven members are appointed by the city council. Six members are appointed by the Travis County Commissioners Court. (B) Seven members serve at the pleasure of the City Council; six members serve at the pleasure of the Travis County Commissioners Court. (C) City-appointed board members serve for a term of four years beginning March 1st on the year of 36 appointment. County-appointed board members serve for a term of two four years beginning in February March 1st …
Travis County Commissioners Court Voting Session Agenda Request Meeting Date: Wednesday, June 24, 2026 Agenda Language: Consider and take appropriate action on extending the term length of Travis County appointees to the Austin/Travis County Food Policy Board and instituting new staggered terms. (Commissioner Shea) Prepared By/Phone Number: Yaira Robinson, Assistant Director, Environmental Programs, Elected/Appointed Official or Department Head: Cynthia McDonald Commissioners Court Sponsor(s): Commissioner Shea, Precinct Two Press Inquiries: Hector Nieto, PIO@traviscountytx.gov or (512) 854-8740 Background/Summary of Request: Purpose of the Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board The Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board (Board) advises both the Austin City Council and the Travis County Commissioners Court about ways to improve the availability of safe, nutritious, locally-grown, affordable, and sustainable food for all residents, particularly those in need. The Board was officially established through a City of Austin Ordinance. A Travis County Commissioners Court ordinance was approved soon after. The board began meeting in the spring of 2009. The purpose of the Food Policy Board is to: • Address health disparities • Increase local sustainable food production • End food injustices • Ensure the community has a voice in policy decisions that support a healthy and equitable food system Travis County has one staff member who serves as County staff liaison to the Board. Right now, the County staff liaison is the Assistant Director-Sustainability, in the Transportation & Natural Resources Department (TNR). Board Recommendation to Extend the Term Length for County-appointed Board Members The Board is composed of thirteen members. Seven members are appointed by the Austin City Council. Six members are appointed by the Travis County Commissioners Court. City-appointed board members serve for a term of four years beginning March 1 on the year of appointment, while according to the bylaws, County-appointed board members serve for a term of two years beginning in February of the year of appointment – although in practice, the Austin City Clerk’s office starts all terms on March 1. On July 14, 2025, the Board approved a recommendation to City Council that it approve a change to the Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board bylaws to increase the term length for board members appointed by the Travis County Commissioners Court to four years. According to the Board bylaws, a bylaw amendment is not effective unless approved by the Council Audit and Finance Committee. The City Clerk’s office has outlined to TNR staff the following process for making …
Update Community Gardens Austin Parks & Recreation | July 13, 2026 Staffing Update New Community Garden Coordinator Hiring Education Specialist, adding a 30-hour position to our team. Agenda What is a City-Supported Community Garden? New Community Gardens Program Map on City Website The Three Categories of City-Supported Community Gardens Water Tap Plan Process Improvements Composting Effectiveness Improvements Water Conservation Funding Pollinator Education Time for Questions Defining Community Gardens We have two different categories of Community Gardens in Austin. 18 Traditional Community Gardens 12 Program Gardens Some for seniors only (55+) Gardens Matter Community Gardens are valuable to Austin residents. Volunteers, staff, and program participants add beauty and grow food in neighborhoods. 6,110 Volunteer Hours (Communal Areas) 688 Active Gardeners 590 Garden Plots 75 Orchard Trees 9+ Languages Supported We welcomed a new Community Garden Coordinator to lead the program and provide dedicated oversight. Additionally, we arreparing to hire a Culture & Arts Education Specialist who will directly support community gardens, adding a 30-hour position to our team. Map of Community Gardens https://www.austintexas.gov/parks/programs/join-community-garden We welcomed a new Community Garden Coordinator to lead the program and provide dedicated oversight. Additionally, we arreparing to hire a Culture & Arts Education Specialist who will directly support community gardens, adding a 30-hour position to our team. Map of Community Gardens There are 3 different color-coded categories to help you find a fit for your needs. Water Taps Process Improvements Through collaboration with Austin Capital Delivery Services and a formalized partnership with Austin Water we have streamlined the process for developing engineered water tap plans for community gardens. Community Gardens Budget The Austin Parks & Recreation Community Gardens Program has a newly allocated budget of $30,000 per fiscal year. The Annual Budget Includes: - 1 Engineered water tap plan - 1 Water tap install - Educational program materials - Brush pickup pilot program - Garden entrance signage - Emergency water access support - Annual potluck gathering event - Language access services Composting Best Practices To address challenges with ineffective and unused composting systems, we organized gardeners to visit sites with successful composting operations. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and we plan to conduct follow- up site visits in summer of 2027 to evaluate progress and share best practices. Water Conservation Funding Discussions are underway with Austin Water’s Water Conservation team to establish best practices for cistern maintenance and identify funding opportunities for installing new cisterns, adding …
Update Community Gardens Austin Parks & Recreation | July 13, 2026 Staffing Update New Community Garden Coordinator Hiring Education Specialist, adding a 30-hour position to our team. Agenda What is a City-Supported Community Garden? New Community Gardens Program Map on City Website The Three Categories of City-Supported Community Gardens Water Tap Plan Process Improvements Composting Effectiveness Improvements Water Conservation Funding Pollinator Education Time for Questions Defining Community Gardens We have two different categories of Community Gardens in Austin. 18 Traditional Community Gardens 12 Program Gardens Some for seniors only (55+) Gardens Matter Community Gardens are valuable to Austin residents. Volunteers, staff, and program participants add beauty and grow food in neighborhoods. 6,110 Volunteer Hours (Communal Areas) 688 Active Gardeners 590 Garden Plots 75 Orchard Trees 9+ Languages Supported We welcomed a new Community Garden Coordinator to lead the program and provide dedicated oversight. Additionally, we arreparing to hire a Culture & Arts Education Specialist who will directly support community gardens, adding a 30-hour position to our team. Map of Community Gardens https://www.austintexas.gov/parks/programs/join-community-garden We welcomed a new Community Garden Coordinator to lead the program and provide dedicated oversight. Additionally, we arreparing to hire a Culture & Arts Education Specialist who will directly support community gardens, adding a 30-hour position to our team. Map of Community Gardens There are 3 different color-coded categories to help you find a fit for your needs. Water Taps Process Improvements Through collaboration with Austin Capital Delivery Services and a formalized partnership with Austin Water we have streamlined the process for developing engineered water tap plans for community gardens. Community Gardens Budget The Austin Parks & Recreation Community Gardens Program has a newly allocated budget of $30,000 per fiscal year. The Annual Budget Includes: - 1 Engineered water tap plan - 1 Water tap install - Educational program materials - Brush pickup pilot program - Garden entrance signage - Emergency water access support - Annual potluck gathering event - Language access services Composting Best Practices To address challenges with ineffective and unused composting systems, we organized gardeners to visit sites with successful composting operations. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and we plan to conduct follow- up site visits in summer of 2027 to evaluate progress and share best practices. Water Conservation Funding Discussions are underway with Austin Water’s Water Conservation team to establish best practices for cistern maintenance and identify funding opportunities for installing new cisterns, adding …
AUSTIN-TRAVIS COUNTY FOOD POLICY BOARD MEETING MINUTES July 13, 2026 AUSTIN-TRAVIS COUNTY FOOD POLICY BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, JULY 13, 2026 The Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board (ATCFPB) convened on Monday, July 13, 2026 at the City of Austin Permitting and Development Center, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr., Room 1406, Austin, TX 78752. Board Members in Attendance: Andrea Abel, Lisa Barden - Chair, Beth Corbett, Nitza Cuevas, Kacey Hanson, Seanna Marceaux, Melody McClary, Natalie Poulos Board Members Absent: Marissa Bell – Vice-Chair, Erin McDonald Staff in Attendance: Edwin Marty (City of Austin), Amanda Rohlich (City of Austin) CALL TO ORDER Lisa Barden called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos Soto, Community Advancement Network, shared events coming up in the fall: August 26th, Building Community Forum – The Power of Connections: Taking Social Capital to the Bank. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Board Member Kacey Hanson motioned to approve the meeting minutes from the Regular Meeting on June 8, 2026, with Natalie Poulos seconding the motion. Minutes passed on an 8-0 vote. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. Staff briefing regarding community gardens on City-owned land. Presentation by Lindsay Loftin, Community Garden Program Coordinator, Austin Parks and Recreation (see back-up materials for presentation). Staff briefing regarding Austin-Travis County Food Plan Implementation. Presentation by Edwin Marty, Food Policy Manager, Austin Climate Action & Resilience (see back-up materials for presentation). DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. 5. Discuss the Annual Internal Review. Discuss advocacy points of contact for each board member, both at the City Council and County Commissioners Court level. AUSTIN-TRAVIS COUNTY FOOD POLICY BOARD MEETING MINUTES July 13, 2026 Beth Corbett left the dais at 5:48 and returned at 5:53 PM 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Presentation and discussion regarding the working group to expand access to nutritious foods through improvement to existing materials and resources and explore alternate or expanded hours for existing resources. Natalie Poulos provided updates. Request to change name of working group to Food Access for simplification. Presentation and discussion regarding the working group to participate in the USDA Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) application for funding for conservation easements as a regional partnership. Andrea Abel provided an update. The working group is working to apply for the USDA RCPP. Meeting with farm owners who may be interested in a conservation easement. Presentation and discussion regarding the working group to explore revenue generators such as sugar sweetened beverage …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL MONDAY, JULY 13, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. VIRTUAL MEETING Art in Public Places Panel may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: Art in Public Places Panel: July Virtual Special Called Meeting | Meeting-Join | Microsoft Teams. 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, contact Art in Public Places Manager Jaime Castillo at jaime.castillo@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-7852. CURRENT PANEL MEMBERS: Kristi-Anne Shaer, Chair Heidi Schmalbach, Arts Commission Liaison Andrew Danziger Camille Jobe AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Lindsey Millikan, Vice Chair Fatima Carbajal Bernardo Diaz 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 Art in Public Places Panel Regular meeting on July 6, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding Art in Public Places Program, including Conservation, Current Projects and Milestones. Presentation by Jaime Castillo, AIPP Manager, Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. Discussion of the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport Sensory Lounge Art in Public Places Project Concept Design. Presentation by Rakhee Jain Desai, Art in Public Places Artist, and Alex Irrera, AIPP Coordinator Senior, Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment. Discussion of the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport Quiet Energy Space for Children Art in Public Places Project Concept Design. Presentation by Lucas Aoki, Art in Public Places Artist, and Alex Irrera, AIPP Coordinator Senior, Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. 6. Approve a recommendation to the Arts Commission as the Deaccession Jury of Art in Public Places artwork Crosswalk on the Lake by Mery Godigna Collet and Luis R. Gutierrez. Presentation by Jaime Castillo, AIPP Manager, Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment. Approve a recommendation to Arts Commission for the Spicewood Springs Corridor Art in Public Places Project Final Design. Presentation by Christine Rojek, Art in Public Places Artist, and Frederico Forte, AIPP Coordinator Senior, Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment. …
ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL Special Called Meeting Minutes The Art in Public Places Panel convened a Special Called meeting on Monday, July 13, 2026, virtual Special Called meeting. Vice-Chari Lindsey Millikan called the meeting to order at 6:06 PM. Panel Members in Attendance: Vice Chair – Lindsey Millikan, Heidi Schmalbach – Arts Commission Liaison, Fatima Carbajal, Bernardo Diaz, Andrew Danziger and Camille Jobe. Panel Members Absent: Kristi-Anne Shaer – Chair. Staff in Attendance: AIPP Manager: Jaime Castillo; AIPP Coordinator Senior: Rebecca Rende, Frederico Forte, and Alex Irrera. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. The minutes of the Art in Public Places Panel Regular Meeting on July 6, 2026. Vice-Chair Lindsey Millikan made a motion to move approval of the minutes from Art in Public Places Regular Panel Meeting on Monday, July 6, 2026, to the Art in Public Places Regular Panel Meeting on Monday, August 3, 2026, Camille Jobe seconded. Motion passes 4-0. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding Art in Public Places Program, including Conservation, Current Projects and Milestones. Presentation by Jaime Castillo, Art in Public Places Manager, Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. Discussion of the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport Sensory Lounge Art in Public Places Project Concept Design. Presentation by Rakhee Jain Desai, Art in Public Places Artist, and Alex Irrera, AIPP Coordinator Senior, Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment. Discussion of the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport Quiet Energy Space for Children Art in Public Places Project Concept Design. Presentation by Lucas Aoki, Art in Public Places Artist, and Alex Irrera, AIPP Coordinator Senior, Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment. Vice-Chair Lindsey Millikan made a motion to move Item 6, Spicewood Springs Corridor Art in Public Places Project Final Design. Arts Commissioner, Heidi Schamlbach seconded. Motion passes 6-0. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. 6. Approve a recommendation to the Arts Commission as the Deaccession Jury of Art in Public Places artwork Crosswalk on the Lake by Mery Godigna Collet and Luis R. Gutierrez. Presentation by Jaime Castillo, AIPP Manager, Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment. Andrew made a motion to not approve the deaccession of Art in Public Places artwork Crosswalk on the Lake by Mery Godigna Collet and Luis R. Gutierrez, and provide written rationale for keeping the artwork in the Art in Public Places collection to the Arts Commission. Bernie Diaz seconded. Motion passes 6-0. Approve a recommendation to Arts …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION MONDAY, JULY 13, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, ROOM 1101 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Animal Advisory 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 to speak remotely, contact Nekaybaw Watson at nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2562. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Jules Maron, Chair, D3 Jo Anne Norton, Vice Chair, D7 Jennifer Daniel, Parliamentarian, D6 Koby Ahmed, Mayor Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Erin Ferguson, D8 Whitney Holt, D5 Sarah Huddleston, D9 David Loignon, D10 Nancy Nemer, Travis County Dr. Paige Nilson, D4 Erin Van Landingham, D1 CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA 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 Animal Advisory Commission Regular meeting on June 8, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports. Presentation by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services and Jason Garza, Assistant Director, Austin Animal Services. Staff briefing regarding the microchip/vaccine clinic, July 4th runaway pet numbers and 311 policies regarding deceased animals . Presentation by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services and Jason Garza, Assistant Director , Austin Animal Services. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Presentation regarding Petco Love Platform and the exploration of pet reunification platforms. Presentation by Misty Valenta, Animal Services Director, Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter and Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services. Discussion and presentation regarding New World Screwworm Crisis. Presentation by Dr. Debbie Elliot, Program Manager, Veterinary Services. Discussion clarifying previous statement in bylaws regarding No Kill Subcommittee. Discuss the Annual Internal Review Report for Animal Advisory Commission. Change in Chair for No Kill Subcommittee. 5. 6. 7. 8. DICUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 9. 10. Creation of a working group exploring compliance with the Texas Health and Safety Chapter 8-23 Creation of a working group to study the emergency intake procedures at Austin Animal Services. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin …
ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES JUNE 8, 2026 The Animal Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, June 8, 2026, at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Nilson called the Animal Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 pm. Commissioners in Attendance: Dr. Paige Nilson, Chair, D4 Jo Anne Norton, Vice Chair, D7 Jennifer Daniel, Parliamentarian, D6 David Loignon, D10 Jules Maron, D3 Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Koby Ahmed, Mayor Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Erin Ferguson, D8 Whitney Holt, D5 Nancy Nemer, Travis County Erin Van Landingham, D1 Commissioners Absent: Sarah Huddleston, D9 PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Rochelle Vickery – Support Good Fix Rebecca Arizmendi – No Kill Initiatives Shelly Leibham – Spay Neuter and Over Crowding Suzie Chase – Kudos to Monica Dangler Shawna Simpson – Obstructions to Pet Reunions 1 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Animal Advisory Commission Regular Meeting on May 11, 2026. The minutes of the May 11th regular meeting of the Animal Advisory Commission as amended by Commissioner Dulzaides during the June 8th meeting were approved on Vice Chair Norton’s motion, Chair Nilson’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioner Huddelston was absent. The amendment was to insert “Commissioner Dulzaides abstained” to item 11. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports. Presentation by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services and Jason Garza, Assistant Director, Austin Animal Services. Presentation given by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services and Jason Garza, Assistant Director, Austin Animal Services. Staff briefing regarding the Austin Animal Services Donation Fund. Presentation by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services, Jason Garza, Assistant Director, Austin Animal Services, and Melissa Pool, Chief Administrative Officer, Austin Animal Services. Presentation given by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services; Jason Garza, Assistant Director, Austin Animal Services; and Melissa Pool, Chief Administrative Officer, Austin Animal Services. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. 5. 6. Approve the election of Chair. The motion to approve Commissioner Maron as chair of the Animal Advisory Commission was approved on Commissioner Loignon’s motion, Commissioner Maron’s second on an 8-0 vote. Chair Nilson, Vice Chair Norton, and Parliamentarian Daniel abstained. Commissioner Huddleston was absent. The motion to approve Chair Nilson as chair of the Animal Advisory Commission failed on Vice Chair Norton’s motion, Chair Nilson’s second on a 3-2 vote. Chair Nilson, Vice Chair Norton, and Parliamentarian Daniel voted aye. Commissioners …
