MEMORANDUM Planning Commissioners Jonathan Tomko, Planner Principal, Austin Planning January 20, 2026 To: From: Date: Subject: Staff Postponement Request Woodward Mixed Use Flats (C14-2025-0051) The case above has been scheduled for a public hearing during the January 27, 2026, Planning Commission Meeting. Staff requests a postponement of the above-referenced rezoning case to the March 10, 2026, Planning Commission Meeting, so staff can conduct additional due diligence before developing a staff recommendation. This postponement request was made in a timely manner and meets the Planning Commission’s policy. cc: Joi Harden, Zoning Officer 12 C14-2025-0051 - Woodward Mixed Use Flats; District 31 of 2 12 C14-2025-0051 - Woodward Mixed Use Flats; District 32 of 2
Working Draft for Planning Commission – Jan. 27, 2026 Subject to Change § 25-10-152 NONCONFORMING SIGNS. (A) A person may continue or maintain a nonconforming sign at its existing location. (B) A person may not change or alter a nonconforming sign except as provided in this subsection. (1) The face of the sign may be changed. (2) The sign may be changed or altered if the change or alteration does not: (a) increase the degree of the existing nonconformity; (b) change the method or technology used to convey a message; or (c) increase the illumination of the sign. (3) The sign may be relocated on a tract, if the building official determines that the relocated sign will not be hazardous, and the sign is: (a) located on a tract that is partially taken by condemnation or partially conveyed under threat of condemnation; or (b) moved to comply with other regulations. (4) A nonconforming sign may be modified or replaced in the same location, if the modification or replacement reduces: (a) the sign area by at least 20 percent; (b) the height of the sign by at least 20 percent; or (c) both sign area and height of the sign by an amount which, combined, is equal to at least 20 percent of the sign area and height. (5) The owner of a nonconforming off-premise sign may relocate the sign to another tract under these provisions if the requirements of this paragraph are met. (a) The original location of the sign must be: (Supp. No. 172) Created: 2025-12-22 09:53:44 [EST] Page 1 of 7 18 C20-2025-008 - Sign Code Changes for Relocating Billboards1 of 7 Working Draft for Planning Commission – Jan. 27, 2026 Subject to Change (i) in the area bounded by Highway 183 from Burnet Road to Highway 71, Highway 71 from Highway 183 to Lamar Boulevard, Lamar Boulevard from Highway 71 to 45th Street, 45th Street from Lamar Boulevard to Burnet Road, and Burnet Road from 45th Street to Highway 183, or on a tract that abuts the street right-of-way of a boundary street; (ii) in a scenic roadway sign district; (iii) within 500 feet of: 1. a historic sign district; or 2. a residential structure located in a residential base zoning district; or (iv) within the boundaries of a registered neighborhood association that has requested removal of the sign; or (v) on a tract that is partially …
From: W Williams < Sent: Tuesday, January 13, 2026 4:53 PM To: Love, Danielle <danielle.love@austintexas.gov> Subject: I am requesting your support to stop commercial development in the Blackland Neighborhood Please help protect the Blackland Neighborhood from unjust commercialization because once one lot is rezoned “commercial”, dominos will fall and this part of the Historic African American Cultural Heritage District will disappear. Native Austin residents Willie Williams From: Sent: Monday, January 12, 2026 6:25 PM To: Love, Danielle <danielle.love@austintexas.gov> Subject: Blackland Neighborhood I am a native Austinite. I am against the re-zoning of the Blackland Neighborhood. Please leave our neighborhoods alone. Mrs. Nancy Thompson From: Stuart King < Sent: Tuesday, January 13, 2026 4:37 PM To: Love, Danielle <danielle.love@austintexas.gov> Subject: No more zoning Changes We have had enough of cars on East 21st-East 22nd Street. Density is crazy. Mr. Stuart King, F.D.I.C. Funeral Director/Owner King Tears Mortuary, Inc. "The Place for A Perfect Tribute" 08 NPA-2025-0012.01 - 2108 and 2110 E. 22nd Street; District 11 of 2 From: Rosalie Boldin < Sent: Tuesday, January 20, 2026 12:36 PM To: Love, Danielle <danielle.love@austintexas.gov> Subject: re-zoning request for 2108 East 22nd Street We have been notified that you have been requested to re-zone 2108 East 22nd Street from single family residential to commercial. We oppose this re-zoning request. We believe that this request erodes and will continue the erosion of the Blackland Neighborhood, part of the African American Cultural Heritage District, a significant part of Austin and its history. We strongly believe it is important for the City of Austin to respect and retain its history. We Do Not support the erosion of DEI in today's US and Texas politics. We Do Not support efforts to edit our history to prevent future generations from understanding the challenges the United States, and thereby, Texas, have confronted to hold onto it founding principles. As residents of the Barton Hills neighborhood, we also highly value the ability of neighborhoods to maintain their integrity! Should the owner of Este Restaurant be allowed to pursue his commercial interests at the expense of the (historic) neighborhood's residents, then we will no longer dine at Este, one of our favorite restaurants. Rosalie and Jim Boldin 08 NPA-2025-0012.01 - 2108 and 2110 E. 22nd Street; District 12 of 2
From: W Williams < Sent: Tuesday, January 13, 2026 4:53 PM To: Love, Danielle <danielle.love@austintexas.gov> Subject: I am requesting your support to stop commercial development in the Blackland Neighborhood Please help protect the Blackland Neighborhood from unjust commercialization because once one lot is rezoned “commercial”, dominos will fall and this part of the Historic African American Cultural Heritage District will disappear. Native Austin residents Willie Williams From: Sent: Monday, January 12, 2026 6:25 PM To: Love, Danielle <danielle.love@austintexas.gov> Subject: Blackland Neighborhood I am a native Austinite. I am against the re-zoning of the Blackland Neighborhood. Please leave our neighborhoods alone. Mrs. Nancy Thompson From: Stuart King < Sent: Tuesday, January 13, 2026 4:37 PM To: Love, Danielle <danielle.love@austintexas.gov> Subject: No more zoning Changes We have had enough of cars on East 21st-East 22nd Street. Density is crazy. Mr. Stuart King, F.D.I.C. Funeral Director/Owner King Tears Mortuary, Inc. "The Place for A Perfect Tribute" 09 C14-2025-0092 - 2108 and 2110 East 22nd Street; District 11 of 2 From: Rosalie Boldin < Sent: Tuesday, January 20, 2026 12:36 PM To: Love, Danielle <danielle.love@austintexas.gov> Subject: re-zoning request for 2108 East 22nd Street We have been notified that you have been requested to re-zone 2108 East 22nd Street from single family residential to commercial. We oppose this re-zoning request. We believe that this request erodes and will continue the erosion of the Blackland Neighborhood, part of the African American Cultural Heritage District, a significant part of Austin and its history. We strongly believe it is important for the City of Austin to respect and retain its history. We Do Not support the erosion of DEI in today's US and Texas politics. We Do Not support efforts to edit our history to prevent future generations from understanding the challenges the United States, and thereby, Texas, have confronted to hold onto it founding principles. As residents of the Barton Hills neighborhood, we also highly value the ability of neighborhoods to maintain their integrity! Should the owner of Este Restaurant be allowed to pursue his commercial interests at the expense of the (historic) neighborhood's residents, then we will no longer dine at Este, one of our favorite restaurants. Rosalie and Jim Boldin 09 C14-2025-0092 - 2108 and 2110 East 22nd Street; District 12 of 2
13 C14-2025-0090 - West Martin Luther King Jr Blvd and Nueces Street; District 91 of 6 13 C14-2025-0090 - West Martin Luther King Jr Blvd and Nueces Street; District 92 of 6 13 C14-2025-0090 - West Martin Luther King Jr Blvd and Nueces Street; District 93 of 6 January 16, 2026 To Whom it May Concern Sent by email only to: Megan Meisenbach at Subject: Environmental Evaluation of Former Jack Brown Cleaners Site 615 W. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd.; Austin, Texas Dear Ms. Meisenbach: As you requested, this letter report summarizes the results of my evaluation of environmental conditions and potential human health effects due to releases of dry cleaning chemicals from the former Jack Brown Cleaners (JBC) property (Site) located at 615 W. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd in Austin, Texas. I summarize background information regarding the Site history, presence of dry cleaning chemical contamination in soil and groundwater at the Site and at nearby properties, regulatory status with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), and environmental risks if the Site is redeveloped for commercial or residential use. Summary and Conclusions From my review of the JBC Site VCP documents, I draw the following conclusions: ▪ The Site soil and groundwater are contaminated with high concentrations of the dry cleaning chemical Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) and its degradation by-product chemicals, including Trichloroethylene (TCE) and Vinyl Chloride (VC). The chemicals are present at levels exceeding indoor air human health limits for vapor migration into current and future buildings. Further, PCE in groundwater has exceeded TCEQ limits for outdoor air exposures. It is notable that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is sufficiently concerned about PCE’s toxicity (and that of TCE and VC) that the agency is phasing out nearly all uses of this chemical. ▪ It is my opinion that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) inappropriately approved JBC’s request to cease Site cleanup and monitoring. The Voluntary Cleanup Program (VCP) Certificate of Completion granted to JBC means that they and future property owners have no further obligations to cleanup and protect on-site residents, visitors, and workers from cancer risks despite the potential that indoor and outdoor air quality could exceed human health safe limits. ▪ Regardless of TCEQ’s previous actions, future development plans for the JBC property should address these potential human health risks that likely will remain for decades unless the Site is properly remediated or building measures …
ZONING CHANGE REVIEW SHEET CASE: C14-2025-0090 - W. Martin Luther King Jr Blvd and Nueces Street DISTRICT: 9 ZONING FROM: CS and CS-MU ZONING TO: DMU-CO ADDRESS: 601, 607, 611, 615, 619 West Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard, 1809 Rio Grande Street, 1806 Nueces Street SITE AREA: 0.95 acres (41, 403 sq. ft.) PROPERTY OWNER: 1806 Group LP, Jack Brown Family II Limited Partnership AGENT: Drenner Group, PC (Leah Bojo) CASE MANAGER: Cynthia Hadri 512-974-7620, Cynthia.hadri@austintexas.gov STAFF RECOMMENDATION: The staff recommendation is to grant downtown mixed use – conditional overlay (DMU-CO) combined district zoning. The conditional overlay will make exterminating services a conditional use and will prohibit the following uses: Automotive rentals Automotive repair services Automotive sales Automotive washing (of any type) Bail bond services Laundry service Limited warehouse and distribution Maintenance & service facilities Pawn shop services Service station Vehicle Storage PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION / RECOMMENDATION: January 27, 2026: CITY COUNCIL ACTION: ORDINANCE NUMBER: 13 C14-2025-0090 - West Martin Luther King Jr Blvd and Nueces Street; District 91 of 43 C14-2025-0090 ISSUES: 2 Staff is aware that the property owner has submitted an application for the Density Bonus Program. However, the current rezoning request for Downtown Mixed Use – Conditional Overlay (DMU-CO) would allow for a maximum of 120 feet in height. CASE MANAGER COMMENTS: The property in question is approximately 0.95 acres, is developed with a Laundry Service (Jack Brown Cleaners) Fast food (Jimmy Johns) and Bakery (Tiff’s Treats). The existing zoning for the property is general commercial services (CS) district zoning and general commercial services – mixed use (CS-MU) combined district zoning. There is access to West Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard (level 3), Nueces Street (level 1), Rio Grande Street (level 1) and the alley, which is set to remain. This site is in the Northwest District of the Downtown Area Plan and is characterized as mixed use. The surrounding area has several office and commercial uses around it (GO; GO-MU; DMU-CO; CS; CS-NP; DMU-H- ETOD-DBETOD; GO-ETOD-DBETOD) along with various residential types such as single family residential and multifamily residential (SF-3-H; GO). Please refer to Exhibits A (Zoning Map) and B (Aerial View). The applicant is requesting the downtown mixed use – conditional overlay (DMU-CO) combined zoning district for a unified development that will consist of approximately 435 dwelling units, retail and a hotel. The …
14 C14-2025-0093 - West 18th & Nueces Street; District 91 of 6 14 C14-2025-0093 - West 18th & Nueces Street; District 92 of 6 14 C14-2025-0093 - West 18th & Nueces Street; District 93 of 6 January 16, 2026 To Whom it May Concern Sent by email only to: Megan Meisenbach at Subject: Environmental Evaluation of Former Jack Brown Cleaners Site 615 W. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd.; Austin, Texas Dear Ms. Meisenbach: As you requested, this letter report summarizes the results of my evaluation of environmental conditions and potential human health effects due to releases of dry cleaning chemicals from the former Jack Brown Cleaners (JBC) property (Site) located at 615 W. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd in Austin, Texas. I summarize background information regarding the Site history, presence of dry cleaning chemical contamination in soil and groundwater at the Site and at nearby properties, regulatory status with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), and environmental risks if the Site is redeveloped for commercial or residential use. Summary and Conclusions From my review of the JBC Site VCP documents, I draw the following conclusions: ▪ The Site soil and groundwater are contaminated with high concentrations of the dry cleaning chemical Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) and its degradation by-product chemicals, including Trichloroethylene (TCE) and Vinyl Chloride (VC). The chemicals are present at levels exceeding indoor air human health limits for vapor migration into current and future buildings. Further, PCE in groundwater has exceeded TCEQ limits for outdoor air exposures. It is notable that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is sufficiently concerned about PCE’s toxicity (and that of TCE and VC) that the agency is phasing out nearly all uses of this chemical. ▪ It is my opinion that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) inappropriately approved JBC’s request to cease Site cleanup and monitoring. The Voluntary Cleanup Program (VCP) Certificate of Completion granted to JBC means that they and future property owners have no further obligations to cleanup and protect on-site residents, visitors, and workers from cancer risks despite the potential that indoor and outdoor air quality could exceed human health safe limits. ▪ Regardless of TCEQ’s previous actions, future development plans for the JBC property should address these potential human health risks that likely will remain for decades unless the Site is properly remediated or building measures incorporated to prevent migration of toxic chemical gases into the buildings. In …
ZONING CHANGE REVIEW SHEET CASE: C14-2025-0093 - West 18th & Nueces Street DISTRICT: 9 ZONING FROM: GO and DMU-CO ZONING TO: DMU-CO ADDRESS: 1801 Rio Grande Street, 604 & 602 West 18th Street, 1800 & 1802 Nueces Street SITE AREA: 0.9505 acres (41, 613 sq. ft.) PROPERTY OWNER: Triple Play Properties, LTD and Scott Sayers AGENT: Drenner Group, PC (Leah Bojo) CASE MANAGER: Cynthia Hadri 512-974-7620, Cynthia.hadri@austintexas.gov STAFF RECOMMENDATION: The staff recommendation is to grant downtown mixed use – conditional overlay (DMU-CO) combined district zoning. The conditional overlay will make exterminating services a conditional use and will prohibit the following uses: Automotive rentals Automotive repair services Automotive sales Automotive washing (of any type) Bail bond services Laundry service Limited warehouse and distribution Maintenance & service facilities Pawn shop services Service station Vehicle Storage PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION / RECOMMENDATION: January 27, 2026: CITY COUNCIL ACTION: ORDINANCE NUMBER: 14 C14-2025-0093 - West 18th & Nueces Street; District 91 of 44 C14-2025-0093 ISSUES: 2 Staff is aware that the property owner has submitted an application for the Density Bonus Program. However, the current rezoning request for Downtown Mixed Use – Conditional Overlay (DMU-CO) would allow for a maximum of 120 feet in height. CASE MANAGER COMMENTS: The property in question is approximately 0.95 acres, is developed with multifamily (Penthouse Apartments – 48 units) and an office building. The existing zoning for the property is (GO) district zoning and (DMU-CO) combined district zoning. There is access to Rio Grande Street (level 1), West 18th Street (level 1), Nueces Street (level 1) and the alley, which is set to remain. This site is in the Northwest District of the Downtown Area Plan and is characterized as a mixed use. The surrounding area has several office and commercial uses around it (GO; GO-MU; DMU-CO; CS; CS-NP; DMU-H-ETOD-DBETOD; GO-ETOD- DBETOD) along with various residential types such as single family residential and multifamily residential (SF-3-H; GO). Please refer to Exhibits A (Zoning Map) and B (Aerial View). The applicant is requesting the downtown mixed use – conditional overlay (DMU-CO) combined zoning district for a unified development that will consist of approximately 435 dwelling units, retail and a hotel. The staff is recommending DMU-CO here with a list of prohibited uses and with the knowledge that the maximum height allowed in the DMU district is 120 feet. Half …
Leah M. Bojo lbojo@drennergroup.com 512-807-2918 Ms. Lauren Middleton-Pratt Planning Department City of Austin 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, TX 78752 January 21, 2026 Via Electronic Delivery Re: C14-2024-0147, C14-06-0117(RCT) and C14-72-299(RCT) - Postponement request for the zoning and restrictive covenant termination cases associated with the property located at 1317 and 1405 E. Riverside Drive, Austin, Texas (the “Property”). Dear Ms. Middleton-Pratt: As representatives of the owner of the Property, we respectfully request a postponement of zoning case numbers C14-2024-0147, C14-06-0117(RCT) and C14-72-299(RCT) on the January 27, 2026 Planning Commission agenda to the February 24, 2026 Planning Commission agenda. Please let me know if you have any questions or if we can provide any additional information. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. Sincerely, Leah M. Bojo cc: Nancy Estrada, Planning Department (via electronic delivery) Joi Harden, Planning Department (via electronic delivery) 2705 Bee Cave Road, Suite 100 | Austin, Texas 78746 | 512-807-2900 | www.drennergroup.com 15 C14-2024-0147 - 1405 East Riverside Drive; District 91 of 1
Leah M. Bojo lbojo@drennergroup.com 512-807-2918 Ms. Lauren Middleton-Pratt Planning Department City of Austin 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, TX 78752 January 21, 2026 Via Electronic Delivery Re: C14-2024-0147, C14-06-0117(RCT) and C14-72-299(RCT) - Postponement request for the zoning and restrictive covenant termination cases associated with the property located at 1317 and 1405 E. Riverside Drive, Austin, Texas (the “Property”). Dear Ms. Middleton-Pratt: As representatives of the owner of the Property, we respectfully request a postponement of zoning case numbers C14-2024-0147, C14-06-0117(RCT) and C14-72-299(RCT) on the January 27, 2026 Planning Commission agenda to the February 24, 2026 Planning Commission agenda. Please let me know if you have any questions or if we can provide any additional information. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. Sincerely, Leah M. Bojo cc: Nancy Estrada, Planning Department (via electronic delivery) Joi Harden, Planning Department (via electronic delivery) 2705 Bee Cave Road, Suite 100 | Austin, Texas 78746 | 512-807-2900 | www.drennergroup.com 16 C14-06-0117(RCT) - 1317 and 1405 East Riverside Drive; District 91 of 1
Leah M. Bojo lbojo@drennergroup.com 512-807-2918 Ms. Lauren Middleton-Pratt Planning Department City of Austin 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, TX 78752 January 21, 2026 Via Electronic Delivery Re: C14-2024-0147, C14-06-0117(RCT) and C14-72-299(RCT) - Postponement request for the zoning and restrictive covenant termination cases associated with the property located at 1317 and 1405 E. Riverside Drive, Austin, Texas (the “Property”). Dear Ms. Middleton-Pratt: As representatives of the owner of the Property, we respectfully request a postponement of zoning case numbers C14-2024-0147, C14-06-0117(RCT) and C14-72-299(RCT) on the January 27, 2026 Planning Commission agenda to the February 24, 2026 Planning Commission agenda. Please let me know if you have any questions or if we can provide any additional information. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. Sincerely, Leah M. Bojo cc: Nancy Estrada, Planning Department (via electronic delivery) Joi Harden, Planning Department (via electronic delivery) 2705 Bee Cave Road, Suite 100 | Austin, Texas 78746 | 512-807-2900 | www.drennergroup.com 17 C14-72-299(RCT) - 1317 and 1405 East Riverside Drive; District 91 of 1
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, January 13, 2026 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES REGULAR MEETING TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026 The Planning Commission convened in a regular on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001, 301 W. Second Street, in Austin, Texas. Chair Woods called the Planning Commission Meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Felicity Maxwell Casey Haney Anna Lan Joshua Hiller Peter Breton Danielle Skidmore Brian Bedrosian Imad Ahmed Alice Woods Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Nadia Barrera-Ramirez Adam Powell Ex-Officio Members Present: Jessica Cohen Ex-Officio Members in Absent: TC Broadnax Candace Hunter Richard Mendoza 2 Vacancies on the Dais PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. 1 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, January 13, 2026 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Planning Commission regular meeting on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of Tuesday, December 16, 2025, were approved on the consent agenda on Secretary Maxwell’s motion, Commissioner Breton’s second, on an 11-0 vote. 2 vacancies on the dais. PUBLIC HEARINGS 2. Plan Amendment: NPA-2025-0025.03 - Lantana Tract 34; District 8 Location: 7009 West William Cannon Drive, Williamson Creek Watershed; Oak Hill Combined (West Oak Hill) Neighborhood Planning Area Owner/Applicant: Stratus Properties Operating Company Armbrust & Brown, PLLC (Jewels Cain) Agent: Office to Commercial land use Request: Recommended Staff Rec.: Maureen Meredith, 512-974-2695, maureen.meredith@austintexas.gov Staff: Austin Planning The public hearing was closed on Commissioner Breton’s motion, Vice Chair Haney’s second, on a 11-0 vote. 2 vacancies on the dais. The motion to remove the following uses from the prohibited list: the plant nursery, theater, college and university, research services, printing and publishing, and general retail over 3000 square feet, was approved on Secretary Maxwell’s motion, Parliamentarian Ahmed’s second, on an 11-0 vote. 2 vacancies on the dais. The motion to approve Staff’s recommendation of Commercial land use for NPA-2025- 0025.03 - Lantana Tract 34; District 8, as amended, located at 7009 West William Cannon Drive, was approved on Commissioner Breton’s motion, Vice Chair Haney’s second, on an 11-0 vote. 2 vacancies on the dais. 3. Rezoning: Location: C14-2025-0087 - Lantana Tract 34; District 8 6941 ½ and 7009 West William Cannon Drive, Williamson Creek Watershed; Oak Hill Combined (West Oak Hill) Neighborhood Planning Area Owner/Applicant: Stratus Properties Operating Company Armbrust & Brown, PLLC (Jewels Cain) Agent: GO-NP to GR-CO-NP Request: Recommended Staff Rec.: Jonathan Tomko, 512-974-1057, jonathan.tomko@austintexas.gov Staff: Austin …
Alex Moreland and Kevin Urrutia-O’Reilly 3102 Lafayette Ave Austin, TX 78722 To: City of Austin Planning and Zoning Department January 21, 2026 Re.: Zoning Case # C14-2025-009 Rezoning of 2108 and 2110 East 22nd Street Dear Planning Commission, We are writing to express our support for the rezoning of 2108 and 2110 East 22nd Street. We live just down the road from Este on Lafayette Avenue. Our family has deep roots in this neighborhood: my mother lives five houses away from us, and my grandparents lived in the house across the street from us in the 1950s. Individually and collectively, we have witnessed the neighborhood’s changes over many decades. When Eastside Cafe sold, we were delighted to learn that the new owner planned to rebuild the restaurant and revive the garden after years of neglect. We have long enjoyed watching the Purple Martins, North America’s largest swallow, return year after year from South America to their thriving colony at the corner of 22nd and Coleto. Our appreciation for this space led us to volunteer as caretakers of the Purple Martin houses; this will be our sixth season volunteering at the site. Throughout our time in the garden, we have met countless neighbors and passersby who are excited to learn what is currently growing and what will be planted next. Este garden hosts tours, classes, and sunflower-picking days. It has truly become a pillar of the Blackland and Cherrywood neighborhoods. And like all gardens, much like our city, it is ever evolving and always changing. While we understand that some neighbors have concerns about parking, it is prudent to consider the realistic alternatives if this business did not exist in this space. This project represents a thoughtful use of the property: it preserves the existing garden, maintains parking, and strengthens the neighborhood in ways that many other potential developments would not. The positive impact on the local economy, neighborhood vibrancy, and sense of community should not be overlooked. In addition to being garden volunteers, we are regular patrons of both Este and Bar Toti. Over the three years of visiting these restaurants, we have seen remarkably little staff turnover. It is clear that the owner, Sam, values and respects his employees, and that care is returned in kind. It is rare to see development carried out with such thoughtfulness and genuine concern for the surrounding area, as demonstrated by the entire …
To: Maureen Meredith Senior Planner City of Austin Planning Jonathan Tomko Planner Principal City of Austin Planning Planning Commission From: Marva Overton President Blackland Neighborhood Association Re: Zoning Case: NPA-2025-0012.01 and C14-2025-0092 Date: January 27, 2026 On behalf of the Blackland Neighborhood Association (BNA) I am writing to state that the association does not support the zoning request referenced above. While there have been various meetings and conversations with Drew Raffaele, Drenner Group, and/or the property owner, Sam Hellman-Mass, it did not ultimately yield a solution that the association felt it could support. Below are the concerns, some of which were previously expressed, that resulted in the no vote: Encroachment of commercial buildings into residential portion of the neighborhood– While the existing FLUM supports the development of businesses along the Manor Road corridor, the proposed rezoning will allow commercial development on interior streets which the plan does not support. This action could set a precedent for similar requests in the future. City Planning states that this request results in “equal treatment of similarly situated properties”. However, there is a major difference in that multi-family dwellings and service oriented businesses do not create the same degree of traffic that another restaurant will. Parking and Traffic – The neighborhood is already inundated with restaurant goers parking on the streets in the neighborhood. Nearby neighbors are challenged with having space for guests to park. Adding a building to serve breakfast and lunch, and offices, will compound the parking problem. The applicant states that approximately 8 parking spaces will be added to the area along the alley that is currently used for parking and that there will be approximately 52 spaces in total. We asked the applicant to do a trips per day study to help the neighborhood gauge 08 NPA-2025-0012.01 - 2108 and 2110 E. 22nd Street; District 11 of 3 what the potential increase in vehicle traffic and street parking will be. It is our position that most customers drive to the restaurant and are not walking or taking public transportation. The application stated they would not do a trips per day study prior to the zoning case decision being made because the City only requires this during the site plan review, after the layout and access are finalized. This seems counterintuitive in that the zoning change would already be approved without understanding the traffic impact. Safety – Some neighbors expressed concern …
Via Electronic Delivery January 26, 2026 Re: NPA-2025-0012.01 - 2108 and 2110 E. 22nd Street Dear Planning Commissioners, At a Special Called Meeting on January 26th, 2026, the Upper Boggy Creek Neighborhood Plan Contact Team discussed and took action to join the Blackland Neighborhood Association in their opposition to the requested Future Land Use Map (FLUM) change from Single Family to Neighborhood Commercial for the properties at 2108 and 2110 E. 22nd Street. The Contact Team would like to express its preference for a comprehensive small area plan update along the Manor Road corridor from I-35 to Airport Blvd, almost all of which is within the 2002 Upper Boggy Creek Neighborhood Plan. A comprehensive update would enable an appropriate corridor-scale view and broad resident and merchant engagement for issues like creative off-site parking management (that would address concerns with projects such as this one) and design guidelines for commercial development encroaching on interior streets and pedestrian safety enhancements such as additional sidewalks. In addition, a plan update would identify how to make best use of existing housing stock along the corridor but also encourage any future redevelopment to add transit-supportive density, including affordable housing. We appreciate your consideration of this letter and our position on this case. Jim Walker, acting UBC NPCT Chair Cc: Maureen Meredith, Planning and Zoning Department The Upper Boggy Creek Neighborhood Plan area includes six neighborhood associations: Blackland NA, Cherrywood NA, Delwood II NA, Roger Washington-Holy Cross NA, Scheiffer-Willowbrook NA, and the Wilshire Wood/Delwood I NA. 08 NPA-2025-0012.01 - 2108 and 2110 E. 22nd Street; District 11 of 1
Alex Moreland and Kevin Urrutia-O’Reilly 3102 Lafayette Ave Austin, TX 78722 To: City of Austin Planning and Zoning Department January 21, 2026 Re.: Zoning Case # C14-2025-009 Rezoning of 2108 and 2110 East 22nd Street Dear Planning Commission, We are writing to express our support for the rezoning of 2108 and 2110 East 22nd Street. We live just down the road from Este on Lafayette Avenue. Our family has deep roots in this neighborhood: my mother lives five houses away from us, and my grandparents lived in the house across the street from us in the 1950s. Individually and collectively, we have witnessed the neighborhood’s changes over many decades. When Eastside Cafe sold, we were delighted to learn that the new owner planned to rebuild the restaurant and revive the garden after years of neglect. We have long enjoyed watching the Purple Martins, North America’s largest swallow, return year after year from South America to their thriving colony at the corner of 22nd and Coleto. Our appreciation for this space led us to volunteer as caretakers of the Purple Martin houses; this will be our sixth season volunteering at the site. Throughout our time in the garden, we have met countless neighbors and passersby who are excited to learn what is currently growing and what will be planted next. Este garden hosts tours, classes, and sunflower-picking days. It has truly become a pillar of the Blackland and Cherrywood neighborhoods. And like all gardens, much like our city, it is ever evolving and always changing. While we understand that some neighbors have concerns about parking, it is prudent to consider the realistic alternatives if this business did not exist in this space. This project represents a thoughtful use of the property: it preserves the existing garden, maintains parking, and strengthens the neighborhood in ways that many other potential developments would not. The positive impact on the local economy, neighborhood vibrancy, and sense of community should not be overlooked. In addition to being garden volunteers, we are regular patrons of both Este and Bar Toti. Over the three years of visiting these restaurants, we have seen remarkably little staff turnover. It is clear that the owner, Sam, values and respects his employees, and that care is returned in kind. It is rare to see development carried out with such thoughtfulness and genuine concern for the surrounding area, as demonstrated by the entire …
To: Maureen Meredith Senior Planner City of Austin Planning Jonathan Tomko Planner Principal City of Austin Planning Planning Commission From: Marva Overton President Blackland Neighborhood Association Re: Zoning Case: NPA-2025-0012.01 and C14-2025-0092 Date: January 27, 2026 On behalf of the Blackland Neighborhood Association (BNA) I am writing to state that the association does not support the zoning request referenced above. While there have been various meetings and conversations with Drew Raffaele, Drenner Group, and/or the property owner, Sam Hellman-Mass, it did not ultimately yield a solution that the association felt it could support. Below are the concerns, some of which were previously expressed, that resulted in the no vote: Encroachment of commercial buildings into residential portion of the neighborhood– While the existing FLUM supports the development of businesses along the Manor Road corridor, the proposed rezoning will allow commercial development on interior streets which the plan does not support. This action could set a precedent for similar requests in the future. City Planning states that this request results in “equal treatment of similarly situated properties”. However, there is a major difference in that multi-family dwellings and service oriented businesses do not create the same degree of traffic that another restaurant will. Parking and Traffic – The neighborhood is already inundated with restaurant goers parking on the streets in the neighborhood. Nearby neighbors are challenged with having space for guests to park. Adding a building to serve breakfast and lunch, and offices, will compound the parking problem. The applicant states that approximately 8 parking spaces will be added to the area along the alley that is currently used for parking and that there will be approximately 52 spaces in total. We asked the applicant to do a trips per day study to help the neighborhood gauge 09 C14-2025-0092 - 2108 and 2110 East 22nd Street; District 11 of 3 what the potential increase in vehicle traffic and street parking will be. It is our position that most customers drive to the restaurant and are not walking or taking public transportation. The application stated they would not do a trips per day study prior to the zoning case decision being made because the City only requires this during the site plan review, after the layout and access are finalized. This seems counterintuitive in that the zoning change would already be approved without understanding the traffic impact. Safety – Some neighbors expressed concern …
Via Electronic Delivery January 26, 2026 Re: NPA-2025-0012.01 - 2108 and 2110 E. 22nd Street Dear Planning Commissioners, At a Special Called Meeting on January 26th, 2026, the Upper Boggy Creek Neighborhood Plan Contact Team discussed and took action to join the Blackland Neighborhood Association in their opposition to the requested Future Land Use Map (FLUM) change from Single Family to Neighborhood Commercial for the properties at 2108 and 2110 E. 22nd Street. The Contact Team would like to express its preference for a comprehensive small area plan update along the Manor Road corridor from I-35 to Airport Blvd, almost all of which is within the 2002 Upper Boggy Creek Neighborhood Plan. A comprehensive update would enable an appropriate corridor-scale view and broad resident and merchant engagement for issues like creative off-site parking management (that would address concerns with projects such as this one) and design guidelines for commercial development encroaching on interior streets and pedestrian safety enhancements such as additional sidewalks. In addition, a plan update would identify how to make best use of existing housing stock along the corridor but also encourage any future redevelopment to add transit-supportive density, including affordable housing. We appreciate your consideration of this letter and our position on this case. Jim Walker, acting UBC NPCT Chair Cc: Maureen Meredith, Planning and Zoning Department The Upper Boggy Creek Neighborhood Plan area includes six neighborhood associations: Blackland NA, Cherrywood NA, Delwood II NA, Roger Washington-Holy Cross NA, Scheiffer-Willowbrook NA, and the Wilshire Wood/Delwood I NA. 09 C14-2025-0092 - 2108 and 2110 East 22nd Street; District 11 of 1
OHNPCT RE: Jan 27, 2026 PC Item # 10 and #11: NPA-2025-0025.02 and C14-2025-0079; South Towne Square, 4980, 5016, 5020 ½, and 5030 W US 290 HWY WB Planning Commissioners, While including VMU within the Commercial designation offers greater flexibility for developers, it also presents significant transportation and water quality challenges for Southwest Parkway and Oak Hill at Gaines Creek, respectively. Keeping the local commercial designation that now permits 378 residential units (HB 840) remains the most desirable choice, especially after the recent approval of an additional 1,000 residential units near this intersection, which will worsen traffic congestion. The OHNPCT would support expanding VMU allowances if the maximum number of units is limited to 650 across both lots ( OWNER allows for 750), provided there is a strong commitment to reduced impervious cover (somewhere between 50% and 95%) as it is applied under future redevelopment exception ( undetermined at this time) and contingent upon replacing the existing Conditional Overlay (CO) with a clearly defined list of prohibited uses necessary to protect public health and safety. 19Commercial Uses to be ProhibitedAdult Oriented BusinessesAgricultural sales and servicesAutomotive Repair ServicesAutomotive washing (of any kind)Bail BondBuilding Maintenance ServicesCampgroundClub or odgeCommercial off-street parkingConstruction sales and services rop-off recycling collection facilityEquipment repair servicesEquipment salesExterminating services uneral servicesKennels aundry Services imited warehousing distributionMonument retail salesOutdoor entertainmentPawn shop servicesRecreational equipment storage and maintenanceRecreational equipment salesResearch ServicesService StationVehicle StorageVeterinary Services dd greed to by OwnerConvenience torage R C E Electronic rototype ssembly O ONO site ccessorypar ing R C E edicabservicesNO RO R ENOW OCEN R C lantNursery ER ER O N rinting and ublishing ervices C E C O N ndustrial Custom anufacturing C E C O N imited Warehousing and istribution CON ON E rban arm ER ER O N 10 NPA-2025-0025.02 - South Town; District 81 of 2 A comprehensive ra ic mpact nalysis ( ) with the ite lan (SP) is necessary due to the site's complex access points, regardless of any future subdivision changes. The projection of only 180 additional daily trips across the entire site may be misrepresented by relying on 24-hour counts rather than pea travel times and may circumvent the requirement for a Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) with individual Site Plans and subdivision. Allowing unrestricted, high-density development over South Towne’s 7 acres, as currently proposed, would deepen transportation issues, worsen water scarcity and pollution, and harm the remaining green spaces around …
OHNPCT RE: Jan 27, 2026 PC Item # 10 and #11: NPA-2025-0025.02 and C14-2025-0079; South Towne Square, 4980, 5016, 5020 ½, and 5030 W US 290 HWY WB Planning Commissioners, While including VMU within the Commercial designation offers greater flexibility for developers, it also presents significant transportation and water quality challenges for Southwest Parkway and Oak Hill at Gaines Creek, respectively. Keeping the local commercial designation that now permits 378 residential units (HB 840) remains the most desirable choice, especially after the recent approval of an additional 1,000 residential units near this intersection, which will worsen traffic congestion. The OHNPCT would support expanding VMU allowances if the maximum number of units is limited to 650 across both lots ( OWNER allows for 750), provided there is a strong commitment to reduced impervious cover (somewhere between 50% and 95%) as it is applied under future redevelopment exception ( undetermined at this time) and contingent upon replacing the existing Conditional Overlay (CO) with a clearly defined list of prohibited uses necessary to protect public health and safety. 19Commercial Uses to be ProhibitedAdult Oriented BusinessesAgricultural sales and servicesAutomotive Repair ServicesAutomotive washing (of any kind)Bail BondBuilding Maintenance ServicesCampgroundClub or odgeCommercial off-street parkingConstruction sales and services rop-off recycling collection facilityEquipment repair servicesEquipment salesExterminating services uneral servicesKennels aundry Services imited warehousing distributionMonument retail salesOutdoor entertainmentPawn shop servicesRecreational equipment storage and maintenanceRecreational equipment salesResearch ServicesService StationVehicle StorageVeterinary Services dd greed to by OwnerConvenience torage R C E Electronic rototype ssembly O ONO site ccessorypar ing R C E edicabservicesNO RO R ENOW OCEN R C lantNursery ER ER O N rinting and ublishing ervices C E C O N ndustrial Custom anufacturing C E C O N imited Warehousing and istribution CON ON E rban arm ER ER O N 11 C14-2025-0079 - South Town Rezoning; District 81 of 2 A comprehensive ra ic mpact nalysis ( ) with the ite lan (SP) is necessary due to the site's complex access points, regardless of any future subdivision changes. The projection of only 180 additional daily trips across the entire site may be misrepresented by relying on 24-hour counts rather than pea travel times and may circumvent the requirement for a Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) with individual Site Plans and subdivision. Allowing unrestricted, high-density development over South Towne’s 7 acres, as currently proposed, would deepen transportation issues, worsen water scarcity and pollution, and harm the remaining green spaces …
13 C14-2025-0090 - West Martin Luther King Jr Blvd and Nueces Street; District 91 of 2 13 C14-2025-0090 - West Martin Luther King Jr Blvd and Nueces Street; District 92 of 2
To: City of Austin Planning Commission Re: Opposition and Request for Postponement of Rezoning Applications • • C14-2025-0090 (West Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard & Nueces Street) C14-2025-0093 (West 18th Street & Nueces Street) Dear Commissioners, January 25, 2025 I am writing to oppose the rezoning applications for the above cases/addresses. My opposition is a matter of both public health and occupational health and safety. I do not oppose redevelopment of this site in principle. However, rezoning to include residential usage must not not proceed until environmental risks associated with the property’s historic dry-cleaning use are adequately addressed and documented. History of the Jack Brown Cleaners Property The subject property, located at West Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Nueces Street, operated as a dry-cleaning facility for several decades [1950 until at least 2003]. Dry-cleaning operations at the site utilized chemical solvents, including perchloroethylene (PCE), which are now well recognized for their long-term environmental persistence and human health risks. Following the discovery of soil and groundwater contamination, the property enrolled in the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Voluntary Cleanup Program (VCP No. 1658) and received a “Final Certificate of Completion” from TCEQ in December 2021. While the “Final Certificate of Completion” reflects regulatory closure under the standards, assumptions, and guidance in effect at that time, it does not determine that the site is appropriate for all future uses, such as residential, which require the highest applicable safety standards. Current Status & Neighborhood Concerns The applicant is now seeking to rezone the properties to allow residential and commercial uses. The applicant’s representative has indicated a desire to build two 400+ feet buildings—one a residential building and a second a hotel building—on this block that includes the former dry- cleaner site. The proposed rezoning represents a significant increase in land-use intensity and introduces long-term residential exposure pathways that were not clearly evaluated by TCEQ or remediated as part of the original remediation. Our concerns are supported by an independent environmental evaluation [see attached Exhibit A] prepared by Brad L. Snow, P.E., P.G., a licensed professional engineer and geologist with more than 40 years of experience in environmental investigation and remediation. 13 C14-2025-0090 - West Martin Luther King Jr Blvd and Nueces Street; District 91 of 11 Specifically, neighbors are concerned with the following. 1. The completed remediation does not rise to the level necessary to support future residential use [the highest …
To: CC: From: Date: MEMORANDUM Aditya Jatar, P.E., BOE Services Matiur Rahman, P.E.; Kaylie Coleman, EIT; Bryan Golden, AICP, ATPW Manar Hasan, P.E., ATPW January 23rd, 2026 Subject: MLK – Rio Grande – 18th St Redevelopment – C14-2025-0090 & C14-2025- 0093 The purpose of this memorandum is to present the findings of review of the “Zoning Traffic Analysis – MLK-Rio Grande-18th St Redevelopment”, prepared by BOE Services and reviewed by Austin Transportation and Public Works (ATPW). The site location is shown in figure 1 below and is comprised of two separate tracts. Figure 1: Site Location 13 C14-2025-0090 - West Martin Luther King Jr Blvd and Nueces Street; District 91 of 6 Date: Subject: January 22nd, 2026 MLK – Rio Grande – 18th St Redevelopment ZTA The purpose of this ZTA is to provide support for rezoning from CS, CS-MU, GO, and DMU-CO to DMU-CO. The proposed development is anticipated to remove the existing 17,574 SF of laundry services, 2,584 SF of fast-food without drive thru, 1,232 SF of bakery without drive thru, 49 dwelling units of low-rise multifamily, and 2,333 SF of office to include 32,624 SF of retail and 476 hotel rooms on the north tract, and 287 dwelling units of high-rise multifamily and 35,100 SF of retail on the south tract. Adjacent Roadway Characteristics: The development is proposing two (2) driveways along the alley that runs between the two tracts. The location of these driveways is shown as P1 and P2 in Figure 2 below. Figure 2: Proposed Driveway Locations As indicated on the site location map and the conceptual site plan (Figures 1 and 2), the MLK – Rio Grande – 18th St Redevelopment is bounded by W MLK on the north, Nueces St on the east, 18th St on the south, and Rio Grande St on the west in Austin, TX. To adequately describe the significance of the roadways within the vicinity of the site, a further characterization is provided for each. Average daily traffic estimates for these roadways were collected in November of 2025. The Austin Strategic Mobility Plan (ASMP) catalogs the classifications of these major roadways and documents proposed improvements. W Martin Luther King Jr Blvd: W Martin Luther King Jr Blvd along the site frontage is currently a three-lane Level 3 road in the ASMP, requiring 100 ft of ROW. The ASMP calls for improvements including corridor mobility improvements. Based on traffic …
To: City of Austin Planning Commission Re: Opposition and Request for Postponement of Rezoning Applications • • C14-2025-0090 (West Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard & Nueces Street) C14-2025-0093 (West 18th Street & Nueces Street) Dear Commissioners, January 25, 2025 I am writing to oppose the rezoning applications for the above cases/addresses. My opposition is a matter of both public health and occupational health and safety. I do not oppose redevelopment of this site in principle. However, rezoning to include residential usage must not not proceed until environmental risks associated with the property’s historic dry-cleaning use are adequately addressed and documented. History of the Jack Brown Cleaners Property The subject property, located at West Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Nueces Street, operated as a dry-cleaning facility for several decades [1950 until at least 2003]. Dry-cleaning operations at the site utilized chemical solvents, including perchloroethylene (PCE), which are now well recognized for their long-term environmental persistence and human health risks. Following the discovery of soil and groundwater contamination, the property enrolled in the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Voluntary Cleanup Program (VCP No. 1658) and received a “Final Certificate of Completion” from TCEQ in December 2021. While the “Final Certificate of Completion” reflects regulatory closure under the standards, assumptions, and guidance in effect at that time, it does not determine that the site is appropriate for all future uses, such as residential, which require the highest applicable safety standards. Current Status & Neighborhood Concerns The applicant is now seeking to rezone the properties to allow residential and commercial uses. The applicant’s representative has indicated a desire to build two 400+ feet buildings—one a residential building and a second a hotel building—on this block that includes the former dry- cleaner site. The proposed rezoning represents a significant increase in land-use intensity and introduces long-term residential exposure pathways that were not clearly evaluated by TCEQ or remediated as part of the original remediation. Our concerns are supported by an independent environmental evaluation [see attached Exhibit A] prepared by Brad L. Snow, P.E., P.G., a licensed professional engineer and geologist with more than 40 years of experience in environmental investigation and remediation. 14 C14-2025-0093 - West 18th & Nueces Street; District 91 of 11 Specifically, neighbors are concerned with the following. 1. The completed remediation does not rise to the level necessary to support future residential use [the highest applicable safety standards!!!] particularly …
To: CC: From: Date: MEMORANDUM Aditya Jatar, P.E., BOE Services Matiur Rahman, P.E.; Kaylie Coleman, EIT; Bryan Golden, AICP, ATPW Manar Hasan, P.E., ATPW January 23rd, 2026 Subject: MLK – Rio Grande – 18th St Redevelopment – C14-2025-0090 & C14-2025- 0093 The purpose of this memorandum is to present the findings of review of the “Zoning Traffic Analysis – MLK-Rio Grande-18th St Redevelopment”, prepared by BOE Services and reviewed by Austin Transportation and Public Works (ATPW). The site location is shown in figure 1 below and is comprised of two separate tracts. Figure 1: Site Location 14 C14-2025-0093 - West 18th & Nueces Street; District 91 of 6 Date: Subject: January 22nd, 2026 MLK – Rio Grande – 18th St Redevelopment ZTA The purpose of this ZTA is to provide support for rezoning from CS, CS-MU, GO, and DMU-CO to DMU-CO. The proposed development is anticipated to remove the existing 17,574 SF of laundry services, 2,584 SF of fast-food without drive thru, 1,232 SF of bakery without drive thru, 49 dwelling units of low-rise multifamily, and 2,333 SF of office to include 32,624 SF of retail and 476 hotel rooms on the north tract, and 287 dwelling units of high-rise multifamily and 35,100 SF of retail on the south tract. Adjacent Roadway Characteristics: The development is proposing two (2) driveways along the alley that runs between the two tracts. The location of these driveways is shown as P1 and P2 in Figure 2 below. Figure 2: Proposed Driveway Locations As indicated on the site location map and the conceptual site plan (Figures 1 and 2), the MLK – Rio Grande – 18th St Redevelopment is bounded by W MLK on the north, Nueces St on the east, 18th St on the south, and Rio Grande St on the west in Austin, TX. To adequately describe the significance of the roadways within the vicinity of the site, a further characterization is provided for each. Average daily traffic estimates for these roadways were collected in November of 2025. The Austin Strategic Mobility Plan (ASMP) catalogs the classifications of these major roadways and documents proposed improvements. W Martin Luther King Jr Blvd: W Martin Luther King Jr Blvd along the site frontage is currently a three-lane Level 3 road in the ASMP, requiring 100 ft of ROW. The ASMP calls for improvements including corridor mobility improvements. Based on traffic counts, the 2025 Average …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION TUESDAY, JANUARY 27, 2026, AT 6:30 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1401/1402 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Ryan Sperling at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS : Commissioner Appointment Kitty McLeod, Vice Chair (she/they) District 1 Commissioner Mariana Krueger (she/her) KC Coyne, Chair (they/them) Steven Rivas (he/him) Brigitte Bandit (they/she) Jerry Joe Benson (he/him) Asher Knutson (he/him) J. Scott Neal (he/him) Garry Brown District 2 District 3 District 4 District 5 District 6 District 7 District 8 Appointment District 9 District 10 VACANT Rocío Fierro-Pérez (she/her/ella) Mayor Morgan Davis (he/him) VACANT VACANT VACANT Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission special called meeting on December 8, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. Discussion regarding the commission’s goals over the next year, activity and expectations for working groups, and attendance needs related to quorum. Discussion regarding the City’s response to the commission’s recommendation to televise LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission meetings. Update on the progress of a historical marker on 4th and Colorado street. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 5. Report from the Stakeholder Commissioner Nomination Working Group regarding its proposed nominations for vacant stakeholder commissioner seats. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. Nominate stakeholder commissioners to fill the vacant stakeholder seats on the commission. Conduct officer elections for Secretary. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 8. 9. 10. Update from Budget Working Group regarding its FY 2026-27 budget proposals. Update from Community Safety Working Group regarding the planned schedule of presenters at commission meetings. Update from the Trans Resource Guide Working Group regarding the current inventory of resource guides and content revision. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications …
LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2025 The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a special called meeting on Monday, December 8, 2025 at 6:30 PM at Austin City Hall, 301 W 2nd St., Austin, Texas 78701, Boards & Commissions Room 1101. Commissioners in attendance in person: Kitty McLeod (Vice Chair) Jerry Joe Benson Garry Brown Morgan Davis Mariana Krueger J. Scott Neal Steve Rivas Commissioners in attendance remotely: Asher Knutson Brigitte Bandit Vice Chair McLeod called the meeting to order at 6:36 P.M. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Jess Robertson – SB8 IFC APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on October 15, 2025. This item was taken up after Item 2 without objection. The minutes of the October 15, 2025 meeting were approved with the below amendment on Commissioner Scott’s motion, Commissioner Brown’s second on a 9-0 vote. Chair Coyne and Commissioners Fierro-Pérez and Treviño were absent. The amendment was to add “Commissioner Neal abstained because he was unable to review recommendation language prior to the vote” to Item 5. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. Update on the progress of the LGBTQ+ Cultural Center Feasibility Study Task Force. Presentation by Mark Gilbert, Director, Hayat Brown. The presentation was made by Mark Gilbert, Director, Hayat Brown. Discussion regarding the implications of SB8 on City Facilities. Discussion was held. Discussion regarding the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals’ ruling on drag shows. Discussion was held. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Update from the Community Safety Working Group regarding planning for the February Community Safety Town Hall and a recap of the group’s recent meeting with the Chief of Police regarding the Community Liaison O(cid:431)icer Program and next steps. Update by Commissioner Benson. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve the 2026 Annual Meeting Schedule of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission. There was a motion by Commissioner Brown to change the February meeting date to February 23rd. The motion was withdrawn. The 2026 Annual Meeting Schedule of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission was approved with the below amendments on Vice Chair McLeod’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second on a 9-0 vote. Chair Coyne and Commissioners Fierro-Pérez and Treviño were absent. The amendments were to strike February 16th and insert February 9th, strike March 16th and insert March 9th, and strike December 2st and insert …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Commision Recommendation Number: (202601XX-XXX): Entrepreneurial Grants for LGBTQIA+ Businesses WHEREAS, local LGBTQIA+ owned businesses contribute significantly to the cultural identity, neighborhood character, and economic vitality of the City of Austin; and WHEREAS, small businesses owned by LGBTQIA+ individuals often face disproportionate barriers to accessing capital, particularly during periods of economic uncertainty and rising operating costs; and WHEREAS, similar City initiatives supporting minority and underserved business owners have demonstrated success in fostering entrepreneurship, business stability, and local job creation; and WHEREAS, no-interest loan and grant programs provide effective, responsible tools for supporting emerging and existing LGBTQIA+ businesses without creating unsustainable debt burdens; and WHEREAS, continued and expanded support for LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs aligns with the City of Austin’s commitments to inclusive economic development, small business resilience, and cultural preservation; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Commission recommends that the Austin City Council expand and continue the City’s entrepreneurial support program for local LGBTQIA+ businesses. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Commission recommends allocating $200,000 to support no-interest loans and entrepreneurial assistance for LGBTQIA+ owned businesses, building upon prior program models and leveraging existing City economic development infrastructure. BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Commission encourages the City to prioritize outreach to small, locally owned, and community-serving LGBTQIA+ businesses that may face barriers to traditional financing. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Page 1 of 2 Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign) Page 2 of 2 BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Commision Recommendation Number: (202601XX-XXX): Expansion of MPox, STI, and Vaccination Programs WHEREAS, the City of Austin has recognized the importance of integrated vaccination and prevention programs, including Hepatitis and Flu outreach, as essential components of LGBTQIA+ public health efforts; and WHEREAS, Austin health departments and community health centers serving LGBTQIA+ residents, including community-based clinics and nonprofit providers, have demonstrated strong capacity and effectiveness in delivering culturally competent vaccination and prevention services; and WHEREAS, MPox continues to present an ongoing public health concern, particularly for LGBTQIA+ communities, and requires sustained vaccination, education, and outreach efforts rather than one-time emergency responses; and WHEREAS, recent reductions in federal and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) public health funding have placed increased pressure on local governments to maintain continuity of vaccination, STI, and HIV prevention programs; and WHEREAS, expanded local funding would support not only MPox vaccination efforts, but …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD JANUARY 26, 2026 – 6:00 PM CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS, ROOM 1001 301 W. 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Parks and Recreation Board 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, click here: https://forms.office.com/g/fbfUcMDVeW or call or email Tim Dombeck, (512) 974-6716, Tim.Dombeck@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Stephanie Bazan (D-5), Chair Kathryn Flowers (D-4), Vice Chair Shelby Orme (D-1) Pedro Villalobos (D-2) Nicole Merritt (D-3) Luai Abou-Emara (D-6) Diane Kearns-Osterweil (D-7) Kim Taylor (D-8) AGENDA Jennifer Franklin (D-9) Ted Eubanks (D-10) Lane Becker (Mayor) CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of November 24, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. 3. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for the Austin Watershed Protection salamander team. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) (APR Long Range Strategies: Operational Efficiency, Park Access for All). Presenter(s): Nathan Bendik, Conservation Program Supervisor, Austin Watershed Protection. Presentation, discussion and approve the Austin Parks and Recreation 2025 Annual Concession Report. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) (APR Long Range Strategies: Urban Public Spaces, Park Access for All). Presenter(s): Karen Charles, Contract Management Specialist and Denisha Cox, Contract Management Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation. Page 1 of 2 4. 5. 6. 7. Presentation, discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council to authorize the negotiation and execution of revenue legacy concession contract with Zilker Park Boat Rental to operate and maintain a watercraft concession at the Barton Creek location within Zilker Metropolitan Park. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) (APR Long Range Strategies: Urban Public Spaces, Park Access for All). Presenter(s): Lucas Massie, Assistant Director and Denisha Cox, Contract Management Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation. Presentation, discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council to authorize a contract for the rental of a mobile security trailer …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES NOVEMBER 24, 2025 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES NOVEMBER 24, 2025 The PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD convened in a REGULAR meeting on November 24, 2025 at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas Chair Bazan called the PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Luai Abou-Emara, Stephanie Bazan, Lane Becker, Ted Eubanks, Diane Kearns-Osterweil, Pedro Villalobos. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Kathryn Flowers, Nicole Merritt, Shelby Orme. Board Members Absent: Jennifer Franklin, Kim Taylor. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Mark Eaton - Austin Rowing Club New Site Planning Mark May - Park funding and non-profit model APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of October 27, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of October 27, 2025 was approved on Board Member Villalobos’ motion, Board Member Abou-Emara’s second on a 9-0 vote. Board Members Franklin and Taylor absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for the Austin Parks and Recreation Cemeteries Team who have recently assumed responsibility for providing internment services. Jason Walker, Cemeteries Division Manager, Austin Parks and Recreation gave a presentation and answered questions on the history of unmarked graves, the previous internment contractor, and the success of converting an outsourced service into a service that the City provides directly. The motion to approve letters of support for the Austin Parks and Recreation Cemeteries Team who have recently assumed responsibility for providing internment services was approved on Chair Bazan’s motion, Board Member Eubanks’ second on a 9-0 vote. Board members Franklin and Taylor absent. Page 1 of 2 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES NOVEMBER 24, 2025 3. Presentation, discussion, and approve a recommendation to City Council to approve 6,327 sq. ft. of permanent waterline use on parkland located at Colorado River Park Wildlife Sanctuary and Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Metro Park, total mitigation to be paid by Austin Water Utility is $37,651. Paul Books, Principal Planner, Austin Parks and Recreation; Tony Buonodono, Engineer of Record, MWM Design Group; Bryce Barkus, Project Manager, Austin Capital Delivery Services, and; Megan Costey, Engineer, Austin Water gave a presentation and answered questions on the disturbance values of the subsurface work The motion to approve a recommendation to City Council to approve 6,327 sq. ft. of …
Salamander Conservation Program Austin Watershed Protection Nathan F. Bendik Conservation Program Supervisor Jollyville Plateau Salamander Edwards Aquifer (northern) Barton Springs Salamander Barton Springs Salamander Barton Springs Austin Blind Salamander Contributing zone Edwards Aquifer (Barton Springs recharge zone) Barton Springs Pool Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) • Describes conservation measures that mitigate and minimize harm to federally protected salamanders • Requirement of City’s federal permit; allows us to operate Barton Springs Pool (endangered species habitat) • Implemented in 1998; renewed in 2013 • Permit expires in 2033 (City will likely renew) Figure 1. Location of the four major springs of the Barton Springs group. Upper Barton Spring Eliza Spring Old Mill/Sunken Garden Spring Major Elements of HCP • Habitat protection (e.g., limited pool drawdowns) • Habitat management (water level adjustments, sediment removal) • Assurance colony (Austin Salamander Conservation Center) • Habitat restoration (Eliza Spring Daylighting) • Population monitoring and research (are we meeting biological goals of HCP?) • Barton Springs Zone Spill Response Plan • Conservation Fund Pool drawdown after flood Captive Breeding Population • Austin Salamander Conservation Center • Refugium populations to preserve gene diversity in case extinct in wild Before After Habitat restoration: Eliza Daylighting in 2017 “stream” “pool” Eliza survey Underwater view 1997 salamander survey crew First stream salamanders Added smaller substrate Daylit stream starts flowing Questions/comments Nathan.Bendik@austintexas.gov 512-974-2040
Contents Executive Summary ............................................................................................................................................................. 1 Concession Locations ........................................................................................................................................................... 2 Concession Contracts ........................................................................................................................................................... 3 Contract Terms New Concessions Solicitations 3 5 5 Zilker Café ........................................................................................................................................................................... 5 Contract Extensions 6 Austin Rowing Club at Waller Creek Boathouse ................................................................................................................ 6 Lone Star Riverboat ............................................................................................................................................................ 6 Rowing Dock ....................................................................................................................................................................... 7 Zilker Park Boat Rental ....................................................................................................................................................... 7 APR Concession Policy and Procedure Update 7 Parkland Operation and Management Agreements............................................................................................................. 8 POMA Concessions 10 EpicSUP............................................................................................................................................................................. 10 Texas Rowing Center ........................................................................................................................................................ 11 Problem Areas, Challenges, and Strategic Actions ............................................................................................................. 11 Audit of Agreements with Trail Conservancy Austin Rowing Club Expedition School Zilker Eagle Waterway Ban Barton Creek Concession Feasibility Barton Creek Streambank Restoration 11 12 13 13 14 15 16 Watercraft Census ............................................................................................................................................................. 16 Concession Sales, Payments, and Expenditures ................................................................................................................. 20 Revenue Share Payments 21 Capital Improvements and Equipment Updates ................................................................................................................ 24 Butler Pitch and Putt ........................................................................................................................................................ 24 Rowing Dock ..................................................................................................................................................................... 24 i Public Benefit .................................................................................................................................................................... 25 Austin Rowing Club .......................................................................................................................................................... 25 Butler Pitch and Putt ........................................................................................................................................................ 26 EpicSUP............................................................................................................................................................................. 26 Expedition School ............................................................................................................................................................. 26 Lone Star Riverboat .......................................................................................................................................................... 26 Rowing Dock ..................................................................................................................................................................... 27 Texas Rowing Center ........................................................................................................................................................ 27 Zilker Park Boat Rentals.................................................................................................................................................... 27 Zilker Eagle ....................................................................................................................................................................... 27 Concessions Outside of Town Lake Park ............................................................................................................................ 28 Short-Term Permits Concessions at Golf Courses 28 28 Parks and Recreation Board Recommendations ................................................................................................................ 29 Environmental Commission Recommendations ................................................................................................................. 29 Appendix 1. Austin Parks and Recreation Concession Policy and Procedure Update ......................................................... 32 Appendix 2. Temporary Concessions and Commercial Use Report FY25 ............................................................................ 33 Appendix 3. Austin Lake Water Protection Plan and Marine Waste Information ............................................................... 36 ii Executive Summary The mission of Austin Parks and Recreation (APR) is to inspire Austin to learn, play, protect and connect by creating diverse programs and experiences in sustainable natural spaces and public places. In carrying out its mission, APR has established nine permanent concessions in Town Lake Park that provide recreation services. These services include rentals of canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs); rowing instruction and memberships; food and beverage sales; short-course golf; excursion boats; and a mini train. The concessions were established pursuant to City of Austin Code Section 8-1-71, which authorizes the director of Austin Parks and Recreation to allow a concessionaire to operate a food or beverage, rental, or service concession in Town Lake Park. Additionally, Section 8-1-73 requires that on or before January 31st of each year, the director shall deliver a report to the Austin Parks and Recreation Board …
Appendix 1 AUSTIN PARKS AND RECREATION POLICY Subject Section Applicability Director Approval Policy: Policies and Procedures for Concessions in City’s Parks System Finance All Personnel Jesús Aguirre Digitally signed by Jesús Aguirre Date: 2025.12.05 14:02:47 -06'00' Reference Number PR-F-004 Effective Date November 6, 2025 Supersedes Policy Dated March 12, 1998 Signature Date December 5, 2025 It is the policy of Austin Parks and Recreation to maintain the aesthetic and environmental quality of the Parks System, provide positive recreational experiences to park visitors, and ensure a financial return to the City from park concessions. Purpose: To provide a policy for concessions in City of Austin parks. Authority: The Code of the City of Austin Texas, City Charter, Article V Administrative Organization, §4 Directors of Departments. The Director has the authority and responsibility to maintain efficiency within the operation and to determine the methods of operation to accomplish the Department’s mission and objectives. DEFINITIONS Applicable Rules – The applicable provisions of City Code Title 8, the Park Use Rules, and these Policies and Procedures, as they may be amended from time to time. Concession - a business owned by a private citizen or a privately-owned business operating in the Parks System pursuant to an agreement between the City and the citizen or business or a permit issued by the Department. Examples include, but are not limited to, food and beverage stands, boat and watercraft recreation services, bicycle rentals, pushcarts, and souvenir stands. Concessionaire – a private citizen or privately owned business operating a Concession. Director – the Director of the Department or designee. Family Member – means a biological or adoptive parent, biological or adoptive grandparent, spouse (husband, wife, domestic partner), child (biological, adopted, stepchild, foster, legal ward), sibling (biological, adopted, stepsibling), and parent, grandparent, or sibling of a spouse. Effective Date November 6, 2025 Supersedes Policy Date March 12, 1998 Reference Number PR-F-004 Page 1 of 5 Legacy Concession – an existing concession operating in the Parks System pursuant to a concession agreement with the Department that: (cid:120) Has been continuously owned and operated in the same park location by the same person, Local Business, or a Family Member of the person or Local Business for at least 20 years; (cid:120) Has operated under the same or a similar name for the entirety of its existence; (cid:120) Contributes to the City’s history and culture, as determined by the Department in its …
Zilker Park Boat Rental Legacy Concession on Barton Creek Parks and Recreation Board Meeting Austin Parks and Recreation | January 26, 2026 Presented by: Lucas Massie, Assistant Director Denisha Cox, Contract Management Supervisor II Legacy Concession Policy Authority Revised Policies and Procedures for Concessions in City of Austin Parks approved by Council on November 6, 2025, under Resolution 20251106-043 In accordance with City Code Title 8, the Austin Parks and Recreation Director has the authority and responsibility to execute policies and procedures for concessions in Austin parks in accordance with City policies and best practices and under City Code: 8-1-71-73. The Director shall evaluate a proposed Legacy Concession and determine in their sole discretion whether it meets the requirements set forth in these Policies and Procedures. 2 Legacy Concession Policy Legacy Concession Criteria A Legacy Concession is an existing concession operating in the Parks System under an agreement with the Department that: Has been continuously owned and operated in the same park location by the same person, Local Business, or a family member of the person or owner of the Local Business for at least 20 years; Has operated under the same or a similar name throughout its existence; Contributes to the City’s history and culture, as determined solely by the Department; and Has maintained its physical features in good condition. 3 Current Zilker Park Boat Rental Agreement Zilker Park Boat Rentals opened for business in 1969 as a canoe rental service for Barton Creek and Town Lake. Later they included kayaks and stand-up paddle boards (SUPs) among their boat inventories. Current Agreement: On February 28, 2006, the City of Austin entered into a revenue concession agreement. The initial agreement period expired on March 1, 2011, with two additional five-year extensions. The City extended this agreement four additional times with the last extension expiring on February 28, 2026. 4 Current Zilker Park Boat Rental Agreement Revenue Share: The agreement includes revenue obligations: Payment of minimum $18,000 annually plus 10% of any amount over $180,000 gross revenues. Annual Gross Revenue Annual Concession Payments-City FY25: $755,059 FY24: $902,856 FY23: $994,395 FY22: $1,124,276 FY21: $915,893 FY25: $75,506 FY24: $90,285 FY23: $99,548 FY22: $134,607 FY21: $91,589 5 New Legacy Concession Agreement Term An Initial Term of Ten (10) years with Two optional Five-Year Extensions Updated …
Trailers With Security Camera Pilot and Recommendations Austin Parks and Recreation Department 1/26/2026 Background: Rising Property Crime The pilot program was a strategic response to a critical surge in Burglary of Vehicle (BOV)offenses across major park locations. Safety Impact: High crime rates made it difficult for families to feel secure in parks. Strategic Deployment: Locations were chosen based on specific APD historical crime data. MEASURABLE SUCCESS: IMPACT ON CRIME 76% REDUCTION IN BOV 9/15 PARKS IMPROVED Incidents at Mt. Bonnell (Covert Park) dropped from 373 to 88 cases during the pilot period. The majority of participating sites saw an immediate decrease in reported criminal activity Deterrence Factor: Prominently placed trailers served as a high-visibility warning to potential offenders 3 UPHOLIDING PRIVACY STANDARDS LONGTERM CONTRACT Exclusive Ownership: The City of Austin maintains 100% control of all footage. Secure Storage: Hosted in a CJIS- compliant cloud with U.S.-based encryption. Strict Prohibitions: No facial recognition or biometric identification technology used. Auto-Deletion: All data is permanently purged after 60 days unless required for investigation. 4 LOOKING AHEAD: IMPLEMENTATION MASTER AGREEMENT STATUS Contract with Live View Technology (LVT) scheduled for City Council 2/5/2026. 3-Year Initial Term: Plus two 1-year extension options. Community Transparency: Mandatory signage at every monitored parking lot. Targeted Focus: Strategic placement in areas with high property crime historical rates. 5 Questions
AUSTIN PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR’S UPDATE January 2026 Recreation Services Division Athletics: Adult Volleyball Tournament The APR Athletics Office hosted a volleyball tournament on January 10th at the Austin Recreation Center. The tournament reached maximum capacity, with exciting, high-energy play, and look forward to future tournaments. Community Initiatives: Youth Scholarships Through community donations made to the Parks and Library fund, along with support from APF, qualified families are starting to receive scholarship funds to help pay for APR programs like summer camp, sports, and after school programs. Last year, scholarship usage reached its highest total, exceeding $168,000. Design Assessments Therapeutic Recreation: Universal Universal Design promotes environments and services usable by all without the need for adaptation. Assessments identify accessibility improvement opportunities and include written reports and action plans for each site. 75% of APR Recreation Centers have been assessed, with the project concluding in January 2026. Sustainability and Resilience Division Holiday Tree Recycling at Zilker Austin Parks and Recreation and Austin Resource Recovery partnered for the 39th year of Holiday Tree Recycling at Zilker Metro Park during the two weekends after Christmas. Approximately 1,500 pine trees were diverted from the landfill and turned into mulch which was offered free to the public. Over 40 volunteers worked together with Park Rangers, Forestry staff, Zilker Park Grounds staff, Austin Resource Recovery marketing and communications team members and the ARR mulching crew. Special thanks to APR Program Manager Meredith Gauthier for coordinating this event over the last several years! Park Planning Division Circle C Ranch Metropolitan Park DOLA The fenced Dog Off-Leash Area is back in place at Circle C Ranch Metro Park. Located near trail parking area of Donald E. Carpenter Way Temporary fencing will remain in place while the design is developed for a permanent space, sponsored by the District 8 Council Office. Park Planning Division New Playground at Rosewood Neighborhood Park APR partnered with Austin Parks Foundation to renovate the Rosewood Neighborhood Park playground. The existing playscape equipment included swings and a small ship-themed play structure. It offered little shade or play value for visitors. Community members identified values and priorities for the park improvements via onsite pop-ups and online surveys. The new playscape is open to the public! Work on additional improvements including a new pavilion, upgraded sidewalks, seating, and new shade trees are underway. This project was funded by Austin Parks Foundation. https://www.austintexas.gov/rosewoodplayground Park Development Division Upcoming Ribbon …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MUNICIPAL CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION MONDAY, JANUARY 26, 2026, AT 9:30 A.M. AUSTIN HUMAN RESOURCES, LEARNING AND RESEARCH CENTER 5202 E. BEN WHITE BLVD., SUITE 500, AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Municipal Civil Service Commission may be participating by videoconference. EXECUTIVE SESSION (No Public Discussion on These Items) The Commission will announce it will go into closed session pursuant to Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, to receive advice from Legal Counsel, or to discuss matters of litigation and personnel matters as specifically listed on this agenda. If necessary, the Commission will go into closed session, as permitted by law, regarding any item on this agenda. 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 Matthew Chustz, 512-974-2859, Matthew.Chustz@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Kevin Mullen, Chair Mellissa Rogers Vacant AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Kavita Gupta, Vice Chair John Umphress The first ten (10) speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes from the Municipal Civil Service Commission regular meeting on October 27, 2025. HEARING 2. 3. 4. Conduct a hearing in open session 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. Deliberate in open session 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. Action and approval on the appeal filed by Keiona Ausbie regarding their Discharge from Austin Police. STAFF BRIEFING 5. 6. Staff briefing regarding an extension to the pilot program and temporary waiver of the Municipal Civil Service Rules, including Rule 4.03, to exempt specific Positions from Posting or application requirements, while maintaining provisions of the Competitive Process to allow conditional offers based on Merit and Fitness. Presentation by Rebecca Kennedy, Deputy Director, Austin Human Resources. Staff briefing regarding Municipal Civil Service Commissioner Appointment Process and updated term …
MUNICIPAL CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2025 The Municipal Civil Service Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, October 27, 2025, at 5202 E. Ben White Blvd., Suite 500, Austin, TX 78741. Vice Chair Kavita Gupta called the Municipal Civil Service Commission meeting to order at 9:35 a.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kavita Gupta, Vice Chair Melissa Rogers Ayo Akande John Umphress PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Robert Duncan spoke suggesting a rule be added to the MCS Rules to prevent about Departments removing a job posting after a Denial of Promotion Grievance has already been filed. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes from the Municipal Civil Service Commission Regular Meeting on September 8, 2025. The minutes from the Municipal Civil Service Commission regular meeting on September 8, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Umphress’ motion, Commissioner Rogers’ second on a 4-0 vote. PUBLIC HEARING 2. Conduct a hearing in open session or closed session, pursuant to 551.074 of the Texas Government Code (personal exception), on the appeal filed by Lindsey Randall regarding their Discharge – Reduction-In-Force from Austin Public Health. A hearing was conducted on the appeal filed by Lindsey Randall regarding their Discharge – Reduction-In-Force from Austin Public Health. 3. Deliberate in open session or closed session, pursuant to 551.074 of the Texas Government Code (personnel exception), on the appeal filed by Lindsey Randall regarding their Discharge – Reduction- In-Force from Austin Public Health. Vice Chair Gupta recessed the Municipal Civil Service Commission meeting to go into closed session at 4:53 p.m. The Commission deliberated in closed session on the appeal filed by Lindsey Randall regarding their Discharge – Reduction-In-Force from Austin Public Health. Closed session ended, and Vice Chair Gupta called the Municipal Civil Service Commission meeting back to order at 5:30 p.m. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Action and approval on the appeal filed by Lindsey Randall regarding their Discharge – Reduction- In-Force from Austin Public Health. The motion to deny Lindsey Randall’s appeal and uphold the decision made by the City of Austin in the Discharge – Reduction-In-Force of Lindsey Randall was approved on Vice Chair Gupta’s motion, Commissioner Rogers’ second on a vote of 3-1. Those members voting aye were: Vice Chair Gupta, Commissioner Akande, and Commissioner Rogers. Those voting nay were: Commissioner Umphress. 5. Discussion and action to approve future meeting dates, times, and locations. Discussion was held regarding future meeting …
Municipal Civil Service Municipal Civil Service Contingent Hiring Pilot Extension Contingent Hiring Pilot Extension Austin Human Resources | January 26, 2026 Purpose 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 December 2025. This focused on positions that require no experience or where substitution for minimum experience is allowed. Austin Human Resources is requesting an extension of the pilot through December 2026. 2 Article IX – City Charter At a minimum, the civil service rules must contain provisions governing: (1) initial appointments, promotions, and lateral transfers, all of which shall be based on merit and fitness; (2) disciplinary probation or suspension, involuntary demotion, denial of promotion, and discharge, all of which, in the case of non-probationary employees, must be for cause; (3) the establishment of probationary periods not to exceed six months for all initial appointments, during which time the appointee may be removed from the position without cause; (4) the establishment of probationary periods not to exceed three months for all promotional appointments, during which time the appointee may be removed from the position promoted to, and returned to his/her prior position, without cause; (5) procedures for reductions in force that give consideration to the affected employees' length of service and past work performance; and (6) other provisions, not inconsistent with this subsection, that may be required by the city council. 3 Pilot Guidelines were developed stating that all departments are eligible to participate in the pilot 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. 4 4 Pilot 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 …
