SPECIAL CALLED MEETING SMALL AREA PLANNING JOINT COMMITTEE Wednesday, March 19, 2025 11:30 AM Permitting and Development Center (PDC), Rm. 2004 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the Small Area Plan Joint Committee may be participating by video conference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register, call or email the board liaisons at 512- 974-8033 or chad.sharrard@austintexas.gov / romina.tafazzoli@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Nadia Barrera-Ramirez William D. Floyd, Chair Betsy Greenberg, Vice Chair Vacant Vacant Ryan Puzycki Danielle Skidmore (Planning Commission) (Zoning and Platting Commission) (Zoning and Platting Commission) (Planning Commission) (Planning Commission) (Zoning and Platting Commission) (Planning Commission) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 3 speakers who sign up by noon (12:00 PM) the day before the meeting, being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1. Approve the minutes of the Small Area Planning Joint Committee meeting on February 5, 2025. APPROVAL OF MINUTES STAFF BRIEFINGS 1 2. Staff briefing regarding the North Lamar Transit Center and South Congress Transit Center Station Area Vision Plans and related recommendations. City of Austin Planning Department Staff: Ana Villarreal, Ana.Villarreal@austintexas.gov. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Mark Walters at the Housing and Planning Department, at 512-974-7695, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Small Area Planning Joint Committee, please contact the liaison, Shanisha Johnson at 512-974-3458, shanisha.johnson@austintexas.gov; or Donna Arwood at 512-974-3440, donna.arwood@austintexas.gov. 2
Economic Prosperity Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 19, 2025 ECONOMIC PROSPERITY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, February 19, 2025 The Economic Prosperity Commission convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at 301 W. 2nd Street, Boards and Commissions Room 1101, in Austin, Texas. Chair Nahas called the Economic Prosperity Commission Meeting to order at 6:31 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance in Person: Michael Nahas (Chair) Amy Rister Raquel Valdez-Sanchez Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Aaron Gonzales Kelsey Hitchingham Amy Noel Ofelia Zapata PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Economic Prosperity Commission Regular Called Meeting on October 19, 2022. The minutes were approved with an amendment to remove “Chair” from before “Kelsey” and insert “Chair” before “Nathan Ryan” on Chair Nahas’ motion, Commissioner Hitchingham’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Zapata was off the dais. Commissioners Cantu, Dixon, and Ponder were absent. Item 1 was taken up after Item 2 without objection. Approve the minutes of the Economic Prosperity Commission regular meeting on January 29, 2025. 1 1. 2. Economic Prosperity Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 19, 2025 The minutes were approved without objection on Chair Nahas’ motion on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Zapata was off the dais. Commissioners Cantu, Dixon, and Ponder were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion on the long-term goals and strategic planning of the Economic Prosperity Commission. Discussion was held. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Conduct an emergency election for a Vice Chair of the Economic Prosperity Commission. Commissioner Rister was nominated for the role of Vice Chair by Chair Nahas, second by Commissioner Zapata. Commissioner Rister was elected as Vice Chair on Chair Nahas’ motion, Commissioner Zapata’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Cantu, Dixon, and Ponder were absent. Item 4 was taken up after Item 5 without objection. Discussion and possible action on a recommendation regarding Chapter 380 programs. The below recommendation was approved on Chair Nahas’ motion, Commissioner Rister’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Cantu, Dixon, and Ponder were absent. WHERE AS: Austin City Council recently approved changes to the Chapter 380 Program under Ordinance No. 20240926-013. WHERE AS: The revised Chapter 380 program guidelines indicate that specific goals for program and project metrics will be defined during the rule promulgation and development phase within the first year of implementation. Effectively, pausing the program for one year. WHERE AS: Publishing a temporary scoring matrix would allow …
REGULAR MEETING of the COMMISSION ON VETERAN AFFAIRS Wednesday, March 19, 2025 7:00 PM – Adjournment City of Austin Permitting & Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr., Room 1401/1402 Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the Commission on Veteran Affairs may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register, email the board liaison at Jesus.Simental@austintexas.gov CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Michael Mcinerney, Chair Amber Schleuning, Vice Chair Christopher Wilson William Dahlstrom Maria Brown-Spence Armando Gonzales Patrick Bissett Mark Balch Philip Reichert Curtis Wyman Gustavo Ramirez CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION APPROVAL OF MINUTES 2025. REVISED AGENDA 1. Approve the minutes of the Commission on Veteran Affairs Regular Meeting of Feb 19, STAFF BRIEFINGS DISCUSSION ITEMS ADJOURNMENT 2. Presentation and discussion by Justin Holcomb from Tunnel to Towers Foundation on programs and services offered to veterans. 3. Presentation and discussion by David Gray from Homeless Strategy Office on addressing homelessness in the City of Austin. 4. Discussion on City of Austin veteran surveys. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and possible vote on reappointments of Veterans Affairs Commission members and Joint Inclusion Committee representatives. The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Jesus Simental at (512) 974-7742 or jesus.simental@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711.
Meeting of the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee March 19, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. Permitting and Development Center (PDC) – Room #2103 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee may be participating in the video conference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register, call or email the board liaison, Jonathan Lee, at (512) 974-7232, Jonathan.Lee@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS Alejandra Flores (Chair) Claire Hempel (Vice-Chair) Betsy Greenberg Greg Anderson Awais Azhar Lonny Stern CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Speakers signed up prior to commencement of the meeting will be allowed to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of February 19, 2025, meeting minutes. 1 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. C20-2024-010 UNO Update. Discussion and possible action to recommend amendments to City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to repeal University Neighborhood Overlay District requirements and regulations, and to create a new zoning district for a density bonus program that grants additional building height and modifies uses and site development regulations, including compatibility standards, in exchange for community benefits, for property generally located west of the University of Texas, east of Lamar Boulevard, south of 29th Street and north of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. City Staff: Paul Books, Planning Department, (512) 974-3173, Paul.Books@austintexas.gov and Alan Pani, Planning Department, (512) 974-8084, Alan.Pani@austintexas.gov. 3. Discussion and possible action to recommend initiation of code amendments related to non- residential uses in the Density Bonus 90 (DB-90) program. Sponsor: Commissioner Greenberg. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days before the meeting date. Please call Jonathan Lee, at 512-974-7232, Jonathan.Lee@austintexas.gov for additional information; the City receives and accepts Video Relay Service (VRS) calls from people who are Deaf or hard-of-hearing. For more information on the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee, please contact Jonathan Lee, at 512-974-7232, Jonathan.Lee@austintexas.gov …
Meeting of the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee February 19, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. Permitting and Development Center (PDC) – Room #2103 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee may be participating in the video conference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register, call or email the board liaison, Jonathan Lee, at (512) 974-7232, Jonathan.Lee@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS Alejandra Flores (Chair) Claire Hempel (Vice-Chair) Greg Anderson Awais Azhar Betsy Greenberg Lonny Stern CALL TO ORDER Present in person: Chair Flores Present via Webex Teleconference: Commissioners Azhar, Greenberg, Stern, Anderson (late 6:08pm) Absent: Vice-Chair Hempel PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Speakers signed up prior to commencement of the meeting will be allowed to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of December 18, 2024, meeting minutes. 2. Motion by Commissioner Greenberg 2nd by Commissioner Azhar – unanimous approval with Chair Hempel and Commissioner Anderson absent 1 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. C20-2024-024 Area Plan Process Amendment. Discussion and possible action to recommend amendments to City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to specify an amendment process for area plans, including station area vision plans, when process is not already defined in another section of City code. City Staff: Stevie Greathouse, Division Manager, (512) 974-7226, Stevie.Greathouse@austintexas.gov. Stevie Greathouse presented. On a motion by Commissioner Greenberg and a second by Commissioner Azhar, the Committee voted 4-0 to recommend the proposed amendments, with Commissioner Anderson off the dais and Vice-Chair Hempel absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Update on Active and Upcoming Code Amendments. City Staff: Jonathan Lee, Planning Department, (512) 974-7232, Jonathan.Lee@austintexas.gov. Jonathan Lee presented. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Staff briefing on existing zoning regulations and active code amendments in the North Burnet/Gateway area. Sponsor: Commissioner Stern. Discussion and possible action on code amendments related to commercial uses in the Density Bonus 90 (DB-90) program. Sponsor: Commissioner Greenberg. ADJOURNMENT Adjourned at 6:55pm The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If …
C20-2024-010 UNO Update Proposal Public Review Paul Books, Principal Planner Content Background Process Proposed Changes Next Steps Background Subdistrict Outer West Inner West Guadalupe Dobie Background UNO: A Brief History – Established in 2004 (Updated: 2014, 2019) – Overlay district for the West University area designed to promote high-density and pedestrian-oriented redevelopment that maintains the existing character of the area – Helped to facilitate population growth to over 28,000 residents in the West Campus area 4 City Council Resolution Resolution No. 20240418-077 – Adopted on April 18, 2024 – Includes 29 distinct items for further investigation – Initiated updates to the Land Development Code & Building Criteria Manual – Requested programmatic updates – Land Development Code changes to be considered in Spring 2025 5 Resolution Goals Provide quality, safe, affordable living for all, especially for students attending colleges and universities by: Supporting the implementation of light rail and mobility enhancements Ensuring the area provides daily needs and services Increasing housing capacity, quality, and affordability 6 Land Development Code Council Direction Height limits achievable with participation in the University Neighborhood Overlay (UNO) density bonus program in alignment with the Planning Commission's recommendation to remove height limits for Inner West Campus and Dobie Height limits that are similar to what can be achieved with participation in the ETOD overlay, at minimum Expansion of UNO boundaries Subdistrict boundaries that expand Inner West Campus An appropriate step down of heights within expansion areas Modifying development requirements to discourage above-ground parking and encourage shared parking and underground parking Stakeholder and community engagement 7 Process How it Works 3-Step Process for Code Amendments: Initiation Development & Engagement Review & Adoption 9 Rezoning Process To update the regulations, staff proposes to create a new zoning district that incorporates the existing overlay with requested updates Rezoning requires notice to impacted properties and review by the Planning Commission and City Council at public hearings 10 Plan Amendment Process UNO is part of the Central Austin Combined Neighborhood Plan, an element of the Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan Current Future Land Use Map 11 Plan Amendment Process Mixed use land use designation allows up to 3:1 floor-to-area ratio High density mixed use is appropriate for areas with 3:1 FAR or (FAR) greater Staff propose updating the Central Austin Combined Neighborhood Plan to ensure that the …
C20-2024-010 REZONING, NEIGHBORHOOD PLAN, AND ORDINANCE AMENDMENT REVIEW SHEET Amendment: C20-2024-010 University Neighborhood Overlay (UNO) Update Description: Amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to repeal Article 3 Division 9 University Neighborhood Overlay District Requirements and to create Density Bonus University Neighborhood Overlay (-DBUNO) and rezone property generally located west of the University of Texas, east of Lamar Boulevard, south of 29th Street and north of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard to apply -DBUNO and amend the Central Austin Combined Neighborhood Plan, an element of the Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan, to change the future land use map for the same property from multiple land use designations to High Density Mixed Use. Background: Initiated by City Council Resolution No. 20240418-077 and Resolution No. 2025-0130-057. The University Neighborhood Overlay, or UNO, was first adopted by Ordinance No. 040902-58 in 2004 to promote high-density, pedestrian-oriented redevelopment of the West Campus area that maintains the area's existing character and stimulates income- restricted affordable housing development. The overlay supersedes specific site development standards of the base zones and allows land uses to encourage development that serves the primarily student population of the area. This includes reduced required parking spaces, increased maximum allowable building height and bulk, and allowance for a mix of local, pedestrian-serving commercial uses. For a property to develop under UNO, additional requirements must be met, including providing affordable housing and adherence to stricter streetscape and design standards. These regulations were crafted through a robust community process involving residents and stakeholders. Since their original adoption, UNO regulations were amended in 2014 and 2019 through Ordinance No. 20140213-056 and Ordinance No. 20191114-067. The 2014 amendment allowed participating developments to rent by the bedroom and increased the affordability period from 15 to 40 years. Amendments in 2019 changed the second tier of maximum allowed building height available through the dedication of additional affordable housing units or bedrooms. These amendments demonstrate the commitment to updating UNO to address necessary changes that better serve students and the surrounding community. Since its adoption in 2004, the UNO overlay has facilitated the development of over 10,000 housing units or bedrooms and has led to the creation of 972 income-restricted bedrooms and 401 income-restricted units. In April 2024, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 20240418-077, which initiated amendments to the University Neighborhood Overlay (UNO). The Resolution included 29 distinct items for staff consideration, including amendments to the land development code, …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE DOWNTOWN COMMISSION Wednesday March 19, 2025, 5:30 p.m. Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001 301 W 2nd Street Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Downtown Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by register, please contact Ryan Sperling at Ryan.Sperling@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-3568. telephone. To CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Ed Ishmael, Vice Chair Peter Breton David Carroll Liz Coufal Kimberly Levinson Charles Peveto Sania Shifferd Philip Wiley CALL TO ORDER Jennifer Franklin Nkiru Gelles Amy Mok Anne Charlotte Patterson Nelly Paulina Ramírez Spencer Schumacher AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 19, 2025. 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission regular called meeting on February STAFF BRIEFINGS DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Staff briefing regarding the recent work towards renovating the Austin Convention Center. Presentation by Trisha Tatro, Director, Austin Convention Center Department. 3. Staff briefing regarding the Austin Historic Resource Survey by the Historic Preservation Office. Presentation by Sofia Wagner, Planner III, Planning Department. 4. Update from the liaison from the Parks and Recreation Board on the topics discussed at the January 2025, and February 2025, board meetings. 5. Update from the liaison from the Urban Transportation Commission on Recommendation Number 20250304-003: Austin Core Transportation Plan and Recommendation Number 20250304-006: Austin Light Rail Draft Environmental Impact Statement. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Christi Vitela at the Office of the City Clerk, at (512) 974-2792 for additional information; TTY users’ route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Downtown Commission, please contact Ryan Sperling at Ryan.Sperling@austintexas.gov or …
Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 19, 2025 DOWNTOWN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2025 The Downtown Commission convened the regular meeting on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at City Hall, 301W 2nd St, in a hybrid meeting format. COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE August Harris, Chair Ed Ishmael, Vice-Chair Peter Breton David Carroll Kimberly Levinson Charles Peveto Sania Shifferd COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY Liz Coufal Jennifer Franklin Nkiru Gelles Amy Mok Anne-Charlotte Patterson Nelly Paulina Ramírez Spencer Schumacher CALL TO ORDER Chair Harris called the meeting of the Downtown Commission to order at 5:30 pm. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Philip Whiley – Observations on Austin Land Development Code APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission regular called meeting on January 15, 2025. The minutes from the meeting on January 15, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Levinson’s motion, Commissioner Shifferd’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Breton was off the dais. Commissioner Lavigne was absent. Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 19, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the Seaholm area multi-modal improvements by Alex Payson, Capital Improvement Program Manager, Austin Transportation and Public Works. The presentation was made by Alex Payson, Capital Improvement Program Manager, Austin Transportation and Public Works. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Update on the progress of the Austin Light Rail. Presentation by Austin Transit Partnership staff. The presentation was made by Sean Barry and Deron Lozano, Austin Transit Partnership. 4. Discussion of the proposed reorganization of certain Boards and Commissions as outlined in Austin City Council Resolution 20241212-133. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM 5. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding High Level Goals for the Downtown Austin Plan Update. The motion to approve a Recommendation to Council regarding High Level Goals for the Downtown Austin Plan Update was approved on Commissioner Levinson’s motion, Commissioner Peveto’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Lavigne was absent. Election of officers in April FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT Chair Harris adjourned the meeting at 6:36 pm without any objection.
City of Austin Downtown Historic Resource Survey Downtown Commission Meeting, March 19, 2025 Agenda What Does a Historic Resource Survey Do? Downtown Austin Historic Resource Survey Survey Boundary What’s Inside the Survey? Survey Timeline Frequently Asked Questions Where to Find the Survey Draft What Does a Historic Resource Survey Do? Highlights potential historic properties by identifying older buildings and areas that help to tell the story of an important person, community, group, or the city as a whole; or exhibit significant architecture or landscape design. Includes fieldwork, archival research, and oral histories. Ensures that historically significant resources are recorded. Results are available for public use. Is an information-gathering tool only – does not include zoning changes. 3 Downtown Austin Historic Resource Survey 45+ year old buildings in Downtown Austin 1,313 potential historic resources Survey boundary: Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd on the north, I-35 on the east, Lady Bird Lake on the south, and MoPac on the west Background research for Historic Preservation Office Background research for community use Conducted by HHM & Associates 4 Survey Boundary 5 What’s Inside the Survey? 6 What’s Inside the Survey? 7 What’s Inside the Survey? 8 Survey Timeline Project Initiation 1st Public Meeting Public Comment Period Opens Deadline for Public Comments Oct. 2023 Dec. 18, 2023 March 26, 2025 May 9, 2025 Nov. 2023 May 13, 2024 April 16, 2025 July 2, 2025 Draft Fieldwork 2nd Public Meeting (Virtual) 3rd Public Meeting (Virtual) Presentation to Historic Landmark Commission 9 Frequently Asked Questions Q: Will the survey change the zoning on my property? A: No. The survey consultants will evaluate whether properties are eligible for potential designation as future landmarks, historic districts, or listing on the National Register of Historic Places. Q: Will the survey change my property taxes? A: No. Q: If I want to designate my property based on the survey’s recommendations, how will that work? A: If property owners choose to designate a landmark or historic district based on the recommendations, it will entail a rezoning process. The City of Austin Historic Preservation Office will help guide you through the process. Q: If I choose to designate my property, will my taxes change? A: Maybe. Locally designated landmarks are eligible for a partial property tax exemption. Properties in locally designated historic districts can receive a tax abatement for rehabilitation work. 10 Review and Comment on Draft Survey Public Comment Period opens …
Topics Studied in the Draft Environmental Impact Statement The Draft Environmental Impact Statement (or DEIS) provides a comprehensive analysis of Austin Light Rail in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act and other applicable statutes. This handout contains summary information for key areas of interest that were identified during previous community input. Scan to access the full DEIS at atptx.org Wildlife and Water Resources What are the potential impacts on water and local wildlife? STUDY OUTCOMES KEY ATP PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES y Current drainage patterns will y Less than 2% overall change to y Manage lighting to avoid or minimize be maintained and will bridge impervious coverage because impacts on bats and birds during or culvert over water features the Project is largely within construction and operations. to limit disturbance. existing right-of-way. y Ensure compliance with Clean Water y No threatened or endangered y Lighting during construction Act by continuing coordination with the species or habitat will be and operations could affect the Army Corps of Engineers. impacted by the Project. bat colony and the new light rail bridge across Lady Bird Lake is in the bat flight path. y Continuing bridge design will seek to reduce impacts to water quality, plants and animals. Air Quality How would the construction and operation of light rail affect air quality? STUDY OUTCOMES KEY ATP PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES ATP will require contractors to implement best management practices to minimize dust and emissions that might be caused by construction. During construction: y Increase in dust from construction activities. y Increase in emissions from machinery used during construction. y Temporary emissions from cars due to traffic conditions. Reduced Vehicle Miles Traveled Annually, over 20 million fewer vehicle miles will be traveled, as more people transition to the newly available transit options. No Air Emissions During Operation Light rail vehicles are electric. Austin Prioritizes Clean Air The Austin area complies with all federal air quality standards designed to protect public health. 1 Trees What will happen to trees along the light rail? STUDY OUTCOMES KEY ATP PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES y A tree task force y Three-tiered strategy conducted an will be applied to inventory of trees trees within the limits to determine of construction, which y Removed trees y Continuing objective is to avoid tree removals or impacts Three Tiered Strategy for Trees: the potential for includes: preservation in the Project area. 245 Protected Trees 211 …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION URBAN TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION Recommendation Number 20250304: Austin Core Transportation Plan WHEREAS, the Austin Core Transportation Plan seeks to create a cohesive and adaptable transportation framework that addresses the unique mobility challenges of downtown Austin while building on previous downtown planning efforts and integrating upcoming major infrastructure projects like I-35 Capital Express Central and Project Connect; and WHEREAS, the Downtown street network is 1% of Austin’s overall network but accounts for 12% of all pedestrian crashes and 17% of intersection-related pedestrian crashes; and WHEREAS, the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan sets a goal of 50% non-single occupancy vehicle mode share by 2039; and WHEREAS, two-way streets are safer and increase economic activity where conversions are implemented; and WHEREAS, street trees and additional shade downtown make walking more feasible and can even reduce vehicle speeds; and WHEREAS, the East side of downtown is not currently slated to have a new on-street, high- quality North-South bicycle facility in the current ACT plan; and WHEREAS, the Downtown Austin Alliance Downtown Parking Study was created to comprehensively and holistically find parking management solutions to better serve the residents, workers, and visitors of downtown Austin; and WHEREAS, the Urban Land Institute convened a Technical Assistance Panel focused on reducing the growth of parking downtown, improving management of current parking supply, improving the human experience downtown, and improving other transportation modes; and WHEREAS, City Council Resolution No. 20240201-054 and corresponding ordinances seek to reduce the overall number of new parking spaces built within downtown Austin and create a more pedestrian-oriented built environment; and WHEREAS, the future Austin Light Rail and expanded MetroRapid services are projected to carry tens of thousands additional riders into downtown; and WHEREAS, there are limited resources devoted to transportation infrastructure improvements across the City, with competing priorities, including installing transportation facilities outside of downtown where no current facilities exist; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the UTC recommends that the City Council adopt the Austin Core Transportation plan; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Urban Transportation Commission recommends the Austin Core Transportation Plan prioritizes the needs of pedestrians, cyclists, and non-car modes of transportation throughout the downtown area over car volume throughput; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the UTC recommends the ACT plan continue the protected bike lane on Red River Street from 7th Street to 12th Street, as contemplated by the 2023 Bicycle Plan and the active project listed …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Urban Transportation Commission Recommendation No. 20250304-006: Austin Light Rail Draft Environmental Impact Statement WHEREAS, the Project Connect Contract with the Voters defines Project Connect as “a high capacity transit system, to address the City's transit needs for safer, faster, and more reliable transportation that will improve access to essential services, such as education, health care, grocery stores, childcare, and jobs, especially in historically underserved and underrepresented communities;” WHEREAS, the ballot language for Proposition A of the November 3rd, 2020 election noted that Project Connect would include “associated road, sidewalk, bike, and street lighting improvements;” WHEREAS, the Austin Transit Partnership (ATP) oversees the design, construction, and completion of the Project Connect Light Rail Implementation Plan; WHEREAS, on May 2nd, 2023 the City of Austin Urban Transportation Commission (UTC) recommended that the City of Austin and ATP engage “in a scoping project for multimodal investments to ensure light rail integrates with and expands Austin's existing and future pedestrian, bicycle, and transit connections;” WHEREAS, Project Connect is essential to accomplishing the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan’s 50/50 mode split goal by 2039; and WHEREAS, on January 10th, 2025 ATP released the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Austin Light Rail Phase 1 Project; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the UTC recommends ATP move forward with all light rail design elements and options suggested in the Draft EIS; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the UTC recommends that, in keeping with the Contract with the Voters, ATP should prioritize right-of-way for pedestrians, bicyclists, micro-mobility users, and other transit options in future design iterations over preserving access for private auto traffic. Motioned by: Commissioner Schumacher Seconded by: Commissioner Somers Date of Approval: 3/4/2025 Record of the vote: 7-0 Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
Regular Called Meeting of the Economic Prosperity Commission Wednesday, March 19, 2025, 6:30pm City Hall, Boards & Commissions Room 1101 301 W. 2nd Street Austin, Texas Some members of the Economic Prosperity Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Ryan Sperling, 512- 874-3568, ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Michael Nahas, Chair Rodrigo Cantu Aaron Gonzales Amy Noel Amy Rister Ofelia Zapata Luis Osta Lugo, Vice Chair Laura Dixon Kelsey Hitchingham Christina Ponder Raquel Valdez Sanchez AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Economic Prosperity Commission Regular Meeting on February 19, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion on the long-term goals and strategic planning of the Economic Prosperity Commission. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS Recommendation from the Small Business Working Group regarding language access for small businesses. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Approve a recommendation to City Council for the FY2025-26 budget to increase funding of language access resources for small businesses. Approve recommendations to City Council regarding the FY2025-26 budget as it relates to the Economic Prosperity Commission WORKING GROUP UPDATES 6. Update from the Childcare working group regarding a survey of recent license recipients. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please contact Ryan Sperling, Office of the City Clerk at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Economic Prosperity Commission, please contact Ryan Sperling at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission March 19, 2025 at 6:00 PM Permitting And Development Center, Events Center, Room 1405 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Environmental Commission will be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Elizabeth Funk, Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov, no later than noon the day before the meeting. The following information is required: speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, email address and telephone number (must be the same number that will be used to call into the meeting). CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Haris Qureshi Justin Fleury Mariana Krueger Melinda Schiera Hanna Cofer, Vice Chair Colin Nickells Jennifer Bristol, Secretary David Sullivan Richard Brimer Perry Bedford, Chair CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on March 5, 2025 1 1. DISCUSSION ITEMS Recognition of Perry Bedford for his service on the Environmental Commission – Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Department Presentation and discussion regarding guiding principles and scoring criteria for the 2026 Bond – Pam Kearfott, Managing Engineer, and Kelly Gagnon, Planner Principal, Watershed Protection Department DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Presentation on Watershed Protection Department's Fiscal Year 2025 Budget, Programs, and Projects Overview and approve recommendations for their FY26 budget — Anupa Gharpurey, Financial Manager, and Pam Kearfott, Managing Engineer, Watershed Protection Department Discussion and recommendation on budget priorities from the Joint Sustainability Committee – Harris Qureshi and Perry Bedford, Environmental Commissioners FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 …
1. 2. 3. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, March 5, 2025 The Environmental Commission convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Bedford called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:08 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Perry Bedford, Richard Brimer, Justin Fleury, Mariana Krueger, Colin Nickells, Haris Qureshi, David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: None Commissioners Absent: Jennifer Bristol, Hanna Cofer, Melinda Schiera PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on February 19, 2025 The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on February 19, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Schiera was off the dais. Commissioners Bristol, Cofer, and Schiera were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS Recognition of Colin Nickells for his service on the Environmental Commission – Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Department Item conducted as posted. No action taken. Recognition of Melinda Schiera for her service on the Environmental Commission – Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Department Item was postponed to the next meeting. 1 Presentation and discussion on Austin Energy Green Building – Heidi Kasper, Energy Efficiency Services Director, Austin Energy Item conducted as posted. No action taken. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and recommendation on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Austin Light Rail – Commissioners Sullivan and Qureshi A motion to recommend the draft environmental impact statement for Austin Light Rail failed on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second, on a 5-1 vote. Commissioner Brimer voted against. Commissioner Qureshi abstained. Commissioners Bristol, Cofer, and Schiera were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT Commissioner Qureshi requested to add budget recommendations from the Joint Sustainability Committee to the budget meeting. This request was seconded by Bedford Chair Bedford adjourned the meeting at 7:32 pm without objection. 4. 5. 2
Guiding Principles & Technical Criteria for the 2026 Bond Development Program N I T S U A F O Y T I C Environmental Commission Meeting March 19, 2025 Kelly Gagnon, Principal Planner Pam Kearfott, Managing Engineer W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T Presentation Overview 2 N I T S U A F O Y T I C 1. Introduction to the Watershed Protection Department (WPD) 2. WPD & General Obligation (G.O.) Bond History 3. 2026 Bond Development Process & Guiding Principles 4. WPD Technical Criteria for 2026 Bond Development W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 3 Watershed Protection Department (WPD): Mission To protect the lives, property, and environment of our community by reducing the impacts of flooding, erosion, and water pollution. N I T S U A F O Y T I C W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 4 N I T S U A F O Y T I C WPD: Funding Sources Operations • Drainage Utility Charge • Other Fees and Interest Income Capital Program • Cash transfer from Operations • G.O. Bonds • Grants • Tax Increment Financing • Regional Stormwater Management Program (RSMP) & Urban Structural Control Fund (USCF) Payments W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 5 N I T S U A F O Y T I C WPD: Strategic Plan “Worst Problems First” • Defines mission • Sets goals + objectives • Defines “Problem Score” methodologies for prioritization • Commits to data and asset management • Shares our solutions inventory • Defines framework to identify “preferred solutions” • Sets recommendations W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 6 WPD: Strategic Plan Needs Assessment Over $2 billion needed to solve the most severe watershed problems and critical asset management …
N I T S U A F O Y T I C Watershed Protection Department FY25 Budget, Programs, and Projects Environmental Commission Meeting March 19, 2025 Anupa Gharpurey, Assistant Director, Business Enterprises Pam Kearfott, Managing Engineer, Project Design & Delivery W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 2 Overview N I T S U A F O Y T I C • Mission & Organizational Structure • FY25 Budget Highlights • Programmatic Activities • Capital Improvement Program • Project Highlights • Resources W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 3 N I T S U A F O Y T I C Mission & Organizational Structure W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 4 Our Start: Established in 1991, Watershed Protection Department was charged with the goal of managing the City’s creeks, drainage systems and water quality programs. Our Mission: “…to protect the lives, property, and environment of our community by reducing the impact of floods, erosion, and water pollution.” Our Funding: Primary Source: Drainage Charge - >94% Other sources: Bonds (for Capital Projects), Development Fees, Interest Income, Grants N I T S U A F O Y T I C W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 5 Current Organizational Structure N I T S U A F O Y T I C W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 6 FY25 Financial Structure Watershed Protection Total FTEs: 442.5 Monitoring, Modeling and Compliance FTEs: 105.5 Project Design & Delivery FTEs: 62 Field Operations FTEs: 173 Business Enterprises FTEs: 102 W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T N I T S U A F O Y T I …
North Lamar and South Congress Station Area Vision Plans SAPJC Briefing Wednesday, March 19, 2025 Agenda 1 What is ETOD? 2 What’s an ETOD Station Area? 3 Station Area Vision Plans 4 Next Steps 5 Discussion What is ETOD? What is ETOD? ETOD is an approach to planning that puts housing, jobs, services, and retail near public transit stations. This makes it easier for people to get to these places using public transit and creates walkable neighborhoods with a range of services. Supporting Equitable Outcomes —it ETOD goes beyond just thinking about focuses also on the in these places, especially those who have been left out of past planning efforts. Project Connect and ETOD 2020 2021 Voters overwhelmingly approve Project Connect CapMetro ETOD study (funded by FTA) 2023 City Council accepts ETOD Policy Plan *FTA- The ETOD Policy Plan • Informed by CapMetro’s ETOD Study • Direction to staff to initiate Station Area Planning, Imagine Austin amendments, and Land Development Code amendments • Direction to create an ETOD Implementation Plan as a short- term work program What are the ETOD Goals? The plan has six key goals created with the help from the community. Enable all residents to benefit from safe, sustainable, and accessible transportation Help to close racial health and wealth gaps Preserve and increase housing opportunities that are affordable and attainable Expand access to high-quality jobs and career opportunities Support healthy neighborhoods that meet daily needs Expand Austin’s diverse cultural heritage and small, BIPOC-owned, and legacy businesses What is an ETOD Station Area? Station Area Planning and ETOD Station Area Planning is a community-driven approach to crafting a vision for the area surrounding a transit station. North Lamar Transit Center Station Area South Congress Transit Center Station Area Station Areas Engagement Timeline Round 1 Engagement Round 2 Engagement Round 3 Engagement Spring 2023 Fall 2023 Fall 2024 Engagement The Vision Plans North Lamar & South Congress Transit Centers Station Area Vision Plans North Lamar Transit Center ETOD Typologies North Lamar Transit Center Station Area NLTC Concept Plan NLTC Vision Plan and Future Land Use Map South Congress Transit Center ETOD Typologies South Congress Transit Center Station Area SCTC Vision Plan and Future Land Use Map What makes ETOD Equitable? ETOD advocates that people of all incomes and backgrounds experience benefits from dense, mixed-use, pedestrian-oriented development near transit hubs. Creating & Preserving Mixed-Use Affordable Housing Supporting Small Businesses Creating …
U T U university tenants union uttenantsunion@gmail.com I bit.ly/universitytenantsunion I @uttenantsunion DosporUNO 2 Recommendations to Optimize the University Neighborhood Overlay (UNO) for Austin Student-Renters Executive Summary The University Tenants Union (UTU) is an organization composed of University of Texas at Austin (UT) students which formed following advocacy by its founding members for the elimination of construction of windowless bedrooms in Austin in 2023. Since, UTU has provided resources to student-renters navigating off-campus living, gathered data on student housing needs, and continued its policy advocacy. Updating the University Neighborhood Overlay (UNO) provides a unique policy opportunity in Texas to institute tenant protections for students that are otherwise not feasible. UTU, through deep, ongoing engagement with students, developed two recommendations for UNO to protect student-tenants against exploitation by landlords. Through their implementation, the City of Austin (CoA) can improve students’ housing experiences, and in turn their academic performance. When students have adequate housing, their potential surges. UTU recommends that CoA adopt the following recommendations: 1. Limit Pre-leasing: ● Limit lease renewal offers to 6 months before a lease ends, with a guaranteed 30-day response window. ● Limit new lease signings to 5 months before the lease start date. ● Ban pre-leasing agreements, waiting lists, and any incentives or penalties that pressure tenants into quick decisions. ● Enforce violations with fines. 2. Hold Landlords Accountable for Delayed Move-ins: ● As part of an UNO-specific lease addendum, require a disclosure if a unit’s construction is incomplete or if the unit lacks a certificate of occupancy. ● As a renter’s move-in date approaches, if their leased unit’s certificate of occupancy has not been obtained, landlords must notify the renter between 60 and 90 days before the lease start date. ● In case of a delayed move-in, renters may: terminate the lease without fees OR not pay rent and be compensated for living expenses until they can move in OR choose to accept alternate accommodations from their landlord. UTU looks forward to the adoption of these protections, and will advocate for their future adoption citywide and retroactively (at older UNO-participating properties). Please contact Justin Lanier, Policy Director with any questions: jlanier@utexas.edu | uttenantsunion@gmail.com You can find more information about the University Tenants Union at: bit.ly/universitytenantsunion Engagement and Research These recommendations were developed in collaboration with numerous students, educators, and subject matter experts in the fields of architecture, law, housing, economics, policy development, advocacy, and more. Over …
