CSCRM Working Group Project Scope Item 15.9: Utilize Public Safety Commission to review aggregated sexual assault case data. Data elements to be considered for regular reporting SAFE Alliance (by County or for Travis County Only) • # of total (unduplicated) encounters/contacts/requests • # of forensic exam evidence collections • #completed at time of request • #unable to be completed at time of request or referred elsewhere (include break- down of why (no nurse, no advocate, etc.)) • #completed at a time later than requested • # of medical services (not counting forensic exams) • # completed at time of request • # unable to be completed at time of request or referred elsewhere (include break-down of why (no nurse, no advocate, etc.)) • # completed at a time later than requested • # of consults only • # completed at time of request • # unable to be completed at time of request or referred elsewhere (include break-down of why (no nurse, no advocate, etc.)) • # completed at a time later than requested Austin Police Department • # calls for service by offense type (SCU only) • # of new cases opened by highest offense code (SCU only) • # of cases ‘closed’ by case clearance status (SCU internal status type) • # cases staffed • Victim demographics (#, age range, race/ethnicity, gender) Travis County District Attorney (by Law Enforcement Agency) • # of cases staffed • # of total cases available for prosecution • # declined • # pending further investigation • # accepted • # rejected or dismissed (include break-down of why) • # indicted • # no billed • # pled • # tried (include break-down of results)
PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION Community Police Review Commission & Austin Police Oversight Act Implementation Gail McCant, Director Mia Demers, Public Safety Compliance Program Manager Sara Peralta, Public Information and Marketing Program Manager October 7, 2024 Community Police Review Commission (CPRC) -2- Community Police Review Commission (CPRC) Consists of eleven community volunteers selected by the City Manager. Separate and independent from the Austin Police Department. OPO working to re-establish CPRC in alignment with Municipal Code 2-15-4, Austin Police Oversight Act. -3- CPRC: Eligibility & Selection • Applicants cannot have any personal or professional connections to any police department or police association. (§2-15-4) • Other eligibility requirements can only be instituted by amending the ordinance. (§2-15-4) Eligibility Selection • Commission will have eleven members. (§2-15-4) • Process must be open, the City Auditor will review applicant eligibility, the City Manager will make the final selection. (§2- 15-4) -4- CPRC: Training Requirements Attend 20 hours of training created by the Office of Police Oversight within 90 days of their appointment, which shall be focused on the laws, rules and policies governing the conduct of police officers in Austin in accordance with recommendations of the National Association for Civilian Oversight of Law Enforcement, and members may begin to serve before completion of training. Training Plan 9 hours projected at 8 hours • Training conducted by OPO, City Legal, and City Clerk: Currently projected at • Training conducted by the Austin Police Department (APD): Currently • Training conducted by NACOLE: Currently projected at 8 hours -5- Austin Police Oversight Act (APOA) Implementation -6- APOA Implementation Summary City Code § 2-15-3 Provisions in Compliance ✓ The Office of Police Oversight should provide recommendations to the City about how investigations involving officers are carried out and what the ✓ Provide recommendations to the City on how effective APD rules and procedures are for handling complaints about police officer misconduct, police officer training, when and how police officers use force, how the police interact with the community, and anything else the department does, are effective and outcomes are. § 2-15-3(B) suitable. § 2-15-3(B) ✓ Receive complaints and compliments from the community, including anonymous complaints and compliments. § 2-15-3(B) ✓ Act as a liaison between the community and APD during the complaint process. § 2-15-3(B) ✓ OPO can participate in investigations of complaints, may interview complainants to obtain more information. § 2-15-3(B) ✓ Provide the Chief of Police with recommendations …
MUSIC COMMISSION MEETING 10/07/2024 H O T E L O C C U P A N C Y T A X C O L L E C T I O N S L I V E M U S I C F U N D Kim McCarson Program Manager UPDATED 10.07.2024 FY 24 Year-to-Date Hotel Occupancy Tax Collections – Live Music Fund FY24 Amended Budget $5,575,000 August 2024 w/ Encumbrances $472,660 FY24 Year-to-Date w/ Encumbrances $4,440,522 FY24 Year-End Estimate $17,874 $312,748 $827,586 $19,399 $338,773 $854,923 $12,938 $323,076 $798,287 $5,509 $217,400 $744,461 $472,660 $716,095 $36,835 $335,537 $782,771 $19,180 $288,001 $856,608 $5,354 $172,557 $754,925 FY 23 FY 24 October April November May December June January July February August March September FY 23 Year-to-Date Hotel Occupancy Tax Collections – Live Music Fund FY23 Amended Budget $4,100,000 September 2023 w/ Encumbrances $17,874 FY23 Year-to-Date w/ Encumbrances $4,472,973 FY23 Year-End Estimate $4,043,166 $17,874 $312,748 $827,586 $19,399 $338,773 $854,923 $12,938 $323,076 $798,287 $5,509 $217,400 $744,461 FY 23 October April November May December June January July February August March September
2024 Austin Live Music Fund Update Music & Entertainment Division Economic Development Department Music Commission Meeting – October 7, 2024 2024 Austin Live Music Fund – Latest Updates Visit the Austin Live Music Fund webpage for the latest updates, including: • Full list of 2024 awardees • Summary dashboard about the 2024 grant applicants and awardees C I T Y O F A U S T I N 2024 Austin Live Music Fund – Awardee Next Steps Create Austin at The Long Center Tasks • 136 grant awards accepted so far out of 137 total grant awards (99%) agreements (88%) • 120 signed agreements so far out of 136 total grant • 130 completed Grant Agreement Orientations so far out of 136 total awardees (96%) • 124 completed Financial Information Forms out of 136 forms sent so far to awardees (91%) • 85 first payments paid so far out of 136 total awardees (62%) • 3 second payments paid so far out of 136 total awardees (2%) C I T Y O F A U S T I N 2024 Austin Live Music Fund – Awardee Marketing Add your public events to the Visit Austin Event Calendar Promotional Tours Outside of Austin • Required tagline “Austin Live Music Fund Presents” before the musician/band name on all promotional materials • Tourism marketing plan targeted to potential Austin tourists and convention delegates City of Austin Marketing Statements • “Austin Live Music Fund Presents” • “Support provided in part by the City of Austin Economic Development Department” • "#AustinLiveMusicFund" • City of Austin logo inclusion C I T Y O F A U S T I N 2024 Austin Live Music Fund – Next Steps Applicant Scoring Feedback Meetings • 14 applicants have asked for scoring feedback • Of the 14 requests, 9 applicants have either met with MED Staff or are confirming a meeting time • Remaining 5 requests, which came in recently, will be contacted next Upcoming FY24 Applicant Survey • Coordinating a survey with EDD Communications team for all cultural funding programs C I T Y O F A U S T I N
RESOLUTION FOR SUPPORT OF SUNDAY SESSIONS ATX WHEREAS, Sunday Sessions ATX is a community-focused organization dedicated to fostering inclusivity, well-being, and engagement through free, open-to-the-public music events hosted in outdoor greenspaces that reflect the City of Austin’s cultural identity and enhance its reputation as the "Live Music Capital of the World"; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin recognizes the significant social and economic benefits of supporting free community events, which attract visitors, support local businesses, and provide meaningful opportunities for community engagement; and WHEREAS, the City Council, in Resolution No. 20240215-023, acknowledged the challenges faced by event organizers due to rising costs, emphasizing the need for support to sustain free, accessible community events like "Blues on the Green," which contribute to Austin’s cultural vibrancy; and directed the City Manager to solicit input from the Arts, Music, and Quality of Life commissions in developing recommendations to support and sustain these events by utilizing partnerships across all areas of expertise involved in the live music and arts event space, with the goal of expanding opportunities for the City to co-sponsor community events that are centered around locality, diversity, and inclusivity; and further established an ordinance for associated fee waivers, co-sponsorships, or related budget authorizations needed to effectuate these goals; and WHEREAS, Sunday Sessions ATX is an ongoing, monthly event that aligns with the goals outlined in Resolution No. 20240215-023 by providing free access to local music, arts, and wellness activities, while creating inclusive and diverse spaces for Austinites; and WHEREAS, the ACE permitting fee presents a financial barrier for small, grassroots organizations like Sunday Sessions ATX, and waiving this fee on an ongoing basis would directly support the City’s goal of fostering open, accessible, and culturally enriching events; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin is committed to preserving and promoting accessible community events that reflect Austin’s diversity and vibrancy, including supporting organizations like Sunday Sessions ATX through fee waivers and other resources to ensure their long-term sustainability; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Music Commission requests that the Austin City Council direct the City Manager’s Office to waive the ACE permitting fees for Sunday Sessions ATX on a recurring, monthly basis in recognition of its valuable contributions to Austin’s cultural and community life, as part of the City's broader efforts to support free, public, and inclusive events; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Music Commission supports exploring additional partnerships and …
Public Safety Commission - Questions & Answers PENDING QUESTIONS: October 7, 2024 – Regular Meeting Item 4. Public Safety Quarterly Report, Austin Police Department, including an update on the license plate reader program. 1. Can APD help us get a better understanding of violent crime going down, violent crime clearance rates staying the same, and account for APD staffing as it relates to those stats? Pending 2. How many people were stopped that did not result in an arrest (false positive stops) via the License Plate Reader Program? Pending 3. What amount of data was shared to state or other agencies via the License Plate 4. Data on demographics of people with false positive arrests via the License Plate Reader Program? Pending Reader Program. Pending Item 5. Update on Wildfire Readiness by Austin Fire Department, including an update on the PANO AI system by Austin Energy. 1. Has AFD worked to provide the unhoused community with fire extinguishers? Several of Homeless Strategy Office’s (HSO) partner agencies provide meals to individuals experiencing homelessness, including Caritas of Austin and Sunrise Navigation Center. Additionally, multiple faith-based and community-based groups that are not HSO-affiliated provide food/meals to people experiencing homelessness. Lastly, our street outreach staff (and our street outreach partners) provide fire safety tips to people experiencing homelessness. 2. Has AFD considered and/or partnered with other organizations to provide prepared meals to the unhoused to prevent cooking fires? Homeless Strategy Office (HSO) has also partnered with Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) who have assisted with fire extinguisher distribution to people experiencing homelessness. Item 8. Update from the Training Academy Working Group on recent meetings with APD Training Academy Staff and next steps. 1. Request for Academy cadet class completion reports recommended by Audit Protocol Guidelines1 for cadet classes completed since final Kroll report on 148th Cadet Academy. See Exhibit A and B 1 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=383863 Exhibit A APD Training Academy Audit 149th Cadet Class May 22, 2023 – December 30, 2023 Community Involvement Co-facilitated Coursework • 8 courses taught by or in cooperation with outside SME’s and/or community partners • Key topics: Sexual Harassment Recognition; U.S. & Texas Constitution and Rights; History of Policing and Race in Austin; Mindfulness & Resilience Techniques; Professional Policing; Non-Consensual Language; Traumatic Brain Injury; Crisis Intervention Training • Co-facilitators represented the University of Texas, Texas State University, Neill-Cochran House Museum, Austin Community College, the Centre for Neuro Skills, and Integral Care 149th …
Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, October 7, 2024 PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Monday, October 7, 2024 The Public Safety Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Monday, October 7, 2024, at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room, 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Ramírez called the Public Safety Commission Meeting to order at 4:03 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Nelly Paulina Ramírez, Chair Timothy Ruttan, Vice Chair Rebecca Bernhardt Paul Hermesmeyer Pierre Nguyễn Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Michael Sierra-Arévalo Yasmine Smith PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on January 9, 2023 The minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on January 9, 2023 were approved on Vice Chair Ruttan’s motion, Commissioner Hermesmeyer’s second on a 7- 0 vote. Commissioners Holmes, Orr, and Reyes were absent. 2. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on March 6, 2023. The minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on March 6, 2023 were approved on Vice Chair Ruttan’s motion, Commissioner Bernhardt’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Holmes, Orr, and Reyes were absent. 3. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on September 9, 2024. The minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on September 9, 2024 were approved on Vice Chair Ruttan’s motion, Commissioner Bernhardt’s second on a 1 Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, October 7, 2024 6-0 vote. Commissioner Smith abstained. Commissioners Holmes, Orr, and Reyes were absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 8. Approve the Public Safety Commission 2025 Regular Meeting Schedule The Public Safety Commission 2025 Regular Meeting Schedule was approved on Commissioner Hermesmeyer’s motion, Vice Chair Ruttan’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Holmes, Orr, and Reyes were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Public Safety Quarterly Report by Austin Police Department, including an update on the license plate reader program. The presentation was made by James Mason, Assistant Chief, Austin Police Department. Lisa Davis, Police Chief, Austin Police Department introduced herself to the commission. 5. Update on Wildfire Readiness by Austin Fire Department, including an update on the PANO AI system by Austin Energy The presentation was made by Rob Vires, Chief of Staff, Austin Fire Department; Justice Jones, Chief Mitigation Officer, Austin Fire Department; Jeff Kennedy, Assistant Chief, Austin Fire Department; and Chris Vetromile, Wildfire Mitigation Manager, Austin Energy. …
COMMISSION ON IMMIMGRANT AFFAIRS MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 7, 2024 COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2024 The Commission on Immigrant Affairs convened in a regular meeting on Monday, October 7, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Chair Ortega called the Commission on Immigrant Affairs Meeting to order at 6:46 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Melissa Ortega, Adrian De La Rosa Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Vice Chair Miriam Dorantes, Victor Martinez, Shweta Padmanabha, Jeanne “Canan” Kaba, Luis Osta Lugo, Kevin Countie PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING on 9/16/2024. The minutes from the special called meeting of September 16, 2024, were approved with the following amendment on Commissioner Martinez’s motion, Chair Ortega’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Joshi was absent. The amendment was to revise the action for items 8 through 14 to read “Withdrawn.” DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. Staff briefing regarding general update and invitation for the Commissioners to spread the word about the citizenship clinic from Rocio Villalobos, Program Manager, Equity Office. The presentation was made by Rocio Villalobos, Program Manager, Equity Office. Discussion on planning a retreat for all Commissioners in the coming months. Discussed. COMMISSION ON IMMIMGRANT AFFAIRS MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 7, 2024 4. Presentation by Amanda Rohlich, Business Process Consultant Sr., Food Policy Advisor, Office of Sustainability, on the Austin/Travis County Food Plan. The presentation was made by Amanda Rohlich, Business Process Consultant Sr., Food Policy Advisor, Office of Sustainability DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and approval of the Commissioners attending the Joint Inclusion Committee’s FY26 Community Input Sessions on October 2nd, October 16th, November 6th, and November 20th, 2024. Discussed with no action. Chair Ortega, Vice Chair Dorantes, Commissioner Countie, and Commissioner Kaba indicated they may attend the October 16, November 6, and November 20, 2024, sessions. Discussion and approval of The Commission on Immigrant Affairs' Regular Meeting schedule (dates and location) for 2025. The motion to approve the Commission on Immigrant Affairs 2025 meeting schedule was approved on Commissioner Martinez’s motion, Commissioner De La Rosa’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Joshi was absent. Discussion and approval of the Joint Inclusion Committee’s Regular Meeting schedule (dates and location) for 2025. Withdrawn. 6. 7. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS None. A motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:14 was made by Commissioner Martinez and approved …
Historic Landmark Commission Applications under Review for October 2, 2024 Meeting This list does not constitute a formal agenda and is subject to change. A final agenda will be posted at least 72 hours prior to the meeting. 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, email preservation@austintexas.gov or call Sam Fahnestock at (512) 974-3393. Historic zoning applications Historic landmark and historic district applications 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 9037 Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail – Commission-initiated historic zoning. (Postponed to November 6, 2024) 1308 Springdale Road – Commission-initiated historic zoning. (Postponed to November 6, 2024) 900 Spence Street – Commission-initiated historic zoning. 1205 Cotton Street – Commission-initiated historic zoning. 7304 Knox Lane – Commission-initiated historic zoning. 4310 Avenue H – Owner-initiated historic zoning. (Postponed to November 6, 2024) 1807 E Cesar Chavez Street – Berner-Clark-Mercado House – Repair and replace deck and rails, and paint exterior. (Postponed to November 6, 2024) 2504 Bridle Path – Culberson House – Addition, new doors and windows, new construction cabana, and new siding. (Postponed to November 6, 2024) 701 Baylor Street – Castle Hill Local Historic District – Third-story addition and replace deck. 1003 E 8th Street – Robertson/Stuart & Mair Local Historic District – New construction rear unit. 1901 Cliff Street – Thomas Cranfill house – Deck installation and window replacement. 2 Green Lanes – Graves House – Rehabilitation and addition. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. National Register district permit applications 312 ½ Congress Avenue – Congress Avenue National Register Historic District – Construct a sign. 312 ½ Congress Avenue – Congress Avenue National Register Historic District – Construct a sign. 1703 Newning Avenue – Travis Heights-Fairview Park National Register Historic District – New construction. 810 W 11th Street – West Downtown National Register Historic District – Total demolition. 1703 W 32nd Street – Old West Austin National Register Historic District – Second- story addition, addition of covered back patio. 2510 Wooldridge Drive – Old West Austin National Register Historic …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING of the COMMISSION FOR WOMEN October 2, 2024 AT 12:00 PM Austin City Hall Boards and Commissions Room #1101 301 West 2ND Street Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Commission for Women 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. Diana Melendez Pam Rattan Katrina Scheihing Josephine Serrata Maria Veloz Salas CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Jocelyn Tau, Chair Becky Bullard, Vice Chair Rebecca Austen Vanessa Bissereth Julie Glasser Angela Harris 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 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission for Women regular meeting on September 4, 2024. DISCUSSION ITEM 2. Presentation by Hanna Senko, Project Manager and Consultant, with an update on the Collective Sex Crimes Response Model (CSCRM) Task Force actions and division of work. 3. Approve additional members to the Collective Sex Crimes Response Model (CSCRM) 4. Approve the Commission for Women 2025 Regular Meeting Schedule. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Working Group. 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 Office of the City Clerk Department at 512-974-2792, or email christi.vitela@austintexas.gov, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Commission for Women, please contact Christi Vitela at the Office of the City Clerk Department at 512-974-2792, or email christi.vitela@austintexas.gov.
Commission for Women Meeting Minutes Wednesday, September 4, 2024 Commission for Women REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, September 4, 2024 The Commission for Women convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St, Austin, Texas, Boards and Commissions Room. Chair Tau called the Commission for Women Meeting to order at 12:03 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Jocelyn Tau, Chair Katrina Scheihing Rebecca Austen Vanessa Bissereth Julie Glasser Angela Harris Diana Melendez Pam Rattan Maria Fernanda Veloz Salas PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission for Women regular meeting on August 7, 2024. Commission for Women Meeting Minutes Wednesday, September 4, 2024 The minutes from the meeting on 8/7/2024 were approved on Commissioner Rattan’s motion and seconded by Chair Tau on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Austen and Veloz Salas were off the dais. Vice Chair Bullard and Commissioner Serrata were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation by Mia Johns, Executive Director, Dress for Success, on how the organization supports women in the Austin area in their career progression. The presentation was made by Mia Johns, Executive Director, Dress for Success Austin. 3. Discussion on the merits of a presentation by the Anti-Defamation League in the future. Discussed. Chair Tau and Commissioner Glasser sponsored a presentation by the Anti- Defamation League at a future meeting. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve the formation of a Collective Sex Crimes Response Model (CSCRM) Working Group to devise recommendations in support of the CSCRM’s project objectives until completion. The motion to form a CSCRM Working Group “with the purpose of supporting the work of the CSCRM, keeping awareness of the issues and advocating for recommendations that are made by the task force and that the work of the Working Group concludes when the CSCRM concludes” was approved on Commissioner Austen’s motion, Commissioner Rattan’s second on a 9-0 vote. Vice Chair Bullard and Commissioner Serrata were absent. Commissioners Austen and Scheihing volunteered to join the CSCRM Working Group. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 5. Update from the Quality of Life Working Group on two meetings held in August, including meeting with the City Demographer and University of Texas researchers and a general update on the progress on the Quality of Life study. Update was given by Chair Tau and Commissioners Austen and Rattan. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS CSCRM Working Group …
Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission October 2, 2024 at 6:00 PM Permitting And Development Center, Events Center, Room 1405 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Environmental Commission will be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Elizabeth Funk, Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov, no later than noon the day before the meeting. The following information is required: speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, email address and telephone number (must be the same number that will be used to call into the meeting). CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Haris Qureshi Mariana Krueger Melinda Schiera Hanna Cofer, Vice Chair AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Colin Nickells Jennifer Bristol, Secretary David Sullivan Richard Brimer Perry Bedford, Chair PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on September 18, 2024 1 1. PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ACTION ITEMS Presentation on Hays Commons Municipal Utility District (MUD) and request for a recommendation to initiate a Site-Specific Amendment to City Code Chapter 25-8, Subchapter A, Article 13 of the Save Our Springs Initiative – Leslie Lilly, Environmental Conservation Program Manager, Watershed Protection Department DISCUSSION ITEMS Presentation and discussion on listed endangered and potentially listed species in Travis County – Michael Warriner, Supervisory Fish & Wildlife Biologist, Fish and Wildlife Service Presentation and discussion on Balcones Canyonlands Conservation Plan (BCCP) and covered species – Sherri Kuhl, Environmental Resource Officer, and Kimberlee Harvey, BCCP Officer, Austin Water ACTION ITEMS COMMITTEE UPDATES Review and approve the draft 2025 Environmental Commission Regular meeting schedule Update from the Urban Forestry Committee on the rescheduled meeting – Richard Brimer 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 …
ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA October 2, 2024 Hays Commons MUD, C12M-2024-0003 Milestone Community Builders (Andrew Cortes) COMMISSION MEETING DATE: NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: LOCATION: 2833 1/2 BLISS SPILLAR RD COUNCIL DISTRICT: Austin ETJ and Hays ETJ WATERSHED PROTECTION DEPARTMENT STAFF: Leslie Lilly, Environmental Conservation Program Manager, (512) 535-8914, Leslie.lilly@austintexas.gov WATERSHED: REQUEST: STAFF RECOMMENDATION: STAFF CONDITION: Bear Creek and Little Bear Creek Watersheds, Barton Springs Zone, Desired Development Zone Recommendation to initiate a Site-Specific Amendment to City Code Chapter 25-8, Subchapter A, Article 13, Save Our Springs Initiative Recommended Not applicable
SOS Site-Specific Code Amendment Initiation for Hays Commons MUD 2833 ½ Bliss Spillar Road Leslie Lilly Environmental Conservation Program Manager Watershed Protection C I T Y O F A U S T I N W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T HAYS Commons Municipal Utility District (MUD) Not under consideration at this time – This item will return at same time as the proposed SOS amendment • Finances p ublic infrastructure imp rovements as defined by State Law and Texas Water Code with the consent of the City. The consent a greement p rovid es cer ta inty regarding the regulator y requirements ap plica ble to the District and provides the City with assura nce of a superior quality of development. • C I T Y O F A U S T I N W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T SOS Site-Specific Amendment Initiation • 1992 Save Our Sp ring s ordina nce ad op ted by citizen initiative • Per 25 -8-515, variances to SOS are not allowed , prohibiting modification by MUD consent agreement • Only applies to the Ha ys Commons MUD project • Supermajority of Council must ap prove amendments to SOS • Council Resolution 20221011-076 on October 13, 2022: • “ The City Manager is d irected to initiate site specific variances ….. C I T Y O F A U S T I N W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T SOS Site-Specific Code Amendment Initiation EVC EVC C I T Y O F A U S T I N W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T Hays Commons C 1 2 M - 2 0 2 4 - 0 0 0 3 C I T Y O F A U S T I N W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N …
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Austin Ecological Services Field Office Michael Warriner – michael_warriner@fws.gov U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Regions Southwest Region: AZ, NM, OK, and TX Ecological Services Field Office in Texas • Administer U.S. Endangered Species Act • Petitioned species assessment • Listed species recovery • Conservation planning assistance Austin Ecological Services Field Office Project Leader, Karen Myers karen_myers@fws.gov Branch of Consultations and Habitat Conservation Plans Christina Williams christina_williams@fws.gov Branch of Listing and Recovery Michael Warriner Texas Transportation Branch Dawn Gardiner dawn_gardiner@fws.gov Austin Ecological Services Field Office Resources www.ecos.fws.gov/ecp/ Austin Ecological Services Field Office Resources www.ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/ Austin Ecological Services Field Office Branch of Listing and Recovery Central and Western Texas • 51 Endangered species • 12 Threatened species • 4 Proposed endangered species • 6 Petitioned species for listing consideration Austin Ecological Services Field Office Branch of Listing and Recovery (Species Leads) Austin Ecological Services Field Office Listed Species in Travis County Karst Invertebrates - Endangered • Bee Creek Cave harvestman • Bone Cave harvestman • Coffin Cave mold beetle • Krettschmarr Cave mold beetle • Tooth Cave pseudoscorpion • Tooth cave spider FY25 Deliverables 5-year reviews: updates on status of species Solicitation for new information published in Federal Register • Coffin Cave mold beetle • Tooth Cave pseudoscorpion • Tooth Cave spider Images courtesy of Colin Strickland (City of Austin) Austin Ecological Services Field Office Listed Species in Travis County Salamanders • Austin blind salamander - Endangered • Barton Springs salamander – Endangered • Jollyville Plateau salamander – Threatened FY25 Deliverables 5-year reviews: • Austin blind salamander • Barton Springs salamander Recovery outline/draft recovery plan: Jollyville Plateau salamander • ; FY26 Deliverables 5-year review: • Jollyville Plateau salamander Austin Ecological Services Field Office Listed Species in Travis County Birds • Golden-cheeked warbler – Endangered FY25 Deliverables • 5-year review Image courtesy of Gil Eckrich Austin Ecological Services Field Office Listed Species in Travis County Freshwater Mussels • Texas fatmucket - Endangered FY25 Deliverables • Recovery Outline Austin Ecological Services Field Office Listed Species in Travis County Plants • Bracted twistflower - Endangered FY26 Deliverables • Draft recovery plan Austin Ecological Services Field Office Proposed Species in Travis County Tri-colored bat (multi-state range) • Proposed endangered (9/14/2022) Image courtesy of Tim Krynak (Cleveland Metroparks) Austin Ecological Services Field Office Petitioned Species in Travis County www.fws.gov/project/national-listing-workplan Austin Ecological Services Field Office Petitioned Species in Travis County Not Substantial 90-day …
Balcones Canyonlands Conservation Plan (BCCP) October 2, 2024 Environmental Commission Sherri Kuhl AW Environmental Resource Officer Kimberlee Harvey BCCP Officer AGENDA BCCP Permit Overview BCCP Covered Species 2 Key Elements of BCCP Permit BCCP Permit Holders: City of Austin and Travis County Balcones Canyonlands Preserve (BCP) Partners: City of Austin, Travis County, Lower Colorado River Authority, City of Sunset Valley, The Nature Conservancy, Travis Audubon, Texas Cave Management Association, USFWS, Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, and private preserve managers Permit Area: 561,000 acres = City of Austin and unincorporated Travis County excluding the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge boundary within Travis County Original Permit Term: 30 years (May 2, 1996 to May 2, 2026) • Applied for 15-year Permit extension (May 2, 2026 to May 2, 2041) 3 BCCP Take Permits An Endangered Species Act (ESA) Incidental Take Permit is required for any “take” on an endangered or threatened species, incidental to an otherwise lawful activity. Key Elements of BCCP Mitigation Obligations Acquire, protect in perpetuity, manage, and monitor a system of preserve lands called the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve (BCP) 28,428 acres of Golden-cheeked warbler habitat 2,000 acres of Black-capped vireo habitat Seven preserve planning units called “macrosites” • Min. sizes and max. edge-to-area ratios requirements Acquire and/or manage 35 named caves for listed karst invertebrates + 27 named caves for karst invertebrates of concern Protect and manage populations of Canyon mock-orange and Texabama croton on the BCP 32,428 acres bird habitat & 62 caves 5 Golden-cheeked Warbler Black-capped Vireo *Delisted in 2018 Bee Creek Cave harvestman Bone Cave harvestman Kretschmarr Cave mold beetle Tooth Cave ground beetle Tooth Cave spider BCCP Covered Species • 7 Endangered Species • 1 De-listed Species • 2 Plants of Concern: Canyon mock-orange, Texabama croton Tooth Cave pseudoscorpion • 25 Karst Invertebrates of Concern Golden-cheeked Warbler • Listed as Endangered in 1990 • All are native Texans • Require Ashe Junipers for nesting and for hosting invertebrate prey • Need closed-canopy woodland of both junipers and broadleaved trees Photo by Gil Eckrich Number of Territorial Male Golden-cheeked Warblers ON THE BALCONES CANYONLANDS PRESERVE • Long-term monitoring allows us to determine how the Golden- cheeked Warbler is doing across the BCP. • Management focuses on protecting, maintaining, and creating high quality Ashe juniper- oak woodlands …
2025 Environmental Commission DRAFT Meeting Schedule Permitting and Development Center (PDC) Events Center Room 1405, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive, Austin, Texas 78752 6:00 pm March 5 (Ash Wednesday) January 15 February 5 February 19 March 19 April 2 April 16 May 7 May 21 June 4 June 18 July 2 August 6 August 20 September 3 September 17 October 1 November 5 November 19 December 3 July 16 (Special called for the Annual Planning Meeting) October 15 (Simchat Torah, Jewish holiday)
