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Reommendation 20240228-014 - JSC Budget Recommendations for FY25 Budget — original pdf
Joint Sustainability Committee RECOMMENDATION 20240228-014 Date: February 28, 2024 Subject: Joint Sustainability Committee Budget Recommendations 1. Climate Equity Plan Project Manager: The Austin Climate Equity Plan contains ambitious greenhouse gas reduction goals and strategies to achieve those goals that touch every City department. Fully implementing the plan will reap great benefits to the City of Austin and its residents. The Office of Sustainability needs additional staff to track, report on, and coordinate this work to make the vision of the plan a reality. This position would be responsible for continually updating the Austin Climate Equity Plan Dashboard to reflect progress on each sub-strategy in the plan, including opportunities for the public to engage in the various initiatives (i.e. surveys, public meetings, working groups) and lists of NGOs engaging in various aspects of implementation. The Joint Sustainability Committee recommends that: one (1) Climate Equity Plan Project Manager be added to the Office of Sustainability. (est. $150,000) Motioned By: Qureshi Vote: 14-0 Yes: Kaiba White, Rodrigo Leal, Anna Scott, Jon Salinas, Chris Maxwell-Gaines, Christopher Campbell, Haris Qureshi, Charlotte Davis, Larry Franklin, Diana Wheeler, Melissa Rothrock, Amy Noel, Heather Houser, Alberta Phillips Off Dais: Stephanie Bazan Absent: Yure Suarez, Bertha Delgado Seconded By: Scott 2. Outreach and Engagement for Sustainability Incentives: The City of Austin has numerous sustainability incentive programs aligned with the goals of the Climate Equity Plan. However, many of these programs are underutilized, especially among low-income households. Additional community outreach by trusted organizations can increase the effectiveness of these programs. The Joint Sustainability Committee recommends that $320,000 be allocated to the Office of Sustainability for: a. A Community Engagement Specialist (1 FTE) to coordinate community outreach and partnership activities associated with promoting the full suite of City of Austin sustainability incentives (i.e., home weatherization and repair, water conservation, rainwater collection, landscape and green infrastructure programs), with a focus on building relationships with low-income communities, communities of color, and related organizations and service providers. (est. $120,000) b. $200,000 for grants, contracts, and stipends for community leaders and community-based organizations to do direct outreach to promote sustainability incentive programs in targeted Austin communities, in partnership with the Office of Sustainability. Motioned By: Qureshi Vote: 14-0 Yes: Kaiba White, Rodrigo Leal, Anna Scott, Jon Salinas, Chris Maxwell-Gaines, Christopher Campbell, Haris Qureshi, Charlotte Davis, Larry Franklin, Diana Wheeler, Melissa Rothrock, Amy Noel, Heather Houser, Alberta Phillips Off Dais: Stephanie Bazan Absent: Yure Suarez, Bertha …
20240228-004 Recommendation 'Resolution on combating Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments in the City of Austin and...' — original pdf
JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) RECOMMENDATION 20240228-004 RESOLUTION ON COMBATING ANTISEMITISM, ISLAMOPHOBIA, AND ANTI-ARAB SENTIMENTS IN THE CITY OF AUSTIN AND CALLS FOR A CEASEFIRE Date: February 28th, 2024 Subject: Joint Endorsement of the Human Rights Commission’s Recommendation 20231106_001 Resolution on Combating Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and Anti-Arab Sentiments in the City of Austin and Calls for a Ceasefire. Motioned by: Commissioner Melissa Ortega Seconded by: Commissioner Morgan Davis WHEREAS, the City of Austin is dedicated to fostering a community that embraces diversity and upholds the principles of equality and human rights; WHEREAS, incidents of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments are on the rise within our city, posing a significant threat to the well-being and safety of our diverse communities; WHEREAS, the City of Austin created the Joint Inclusion Committee in City Ordinance No. 20200827-013 so that it shall (1) advise the council on issues pertaining to equity, diversity, and inclusion; and (2) promote close cooperation between the council, City management, City boards, commissions, committees, and agencies to increase and sustain equity, diversity, and inclusion of the city; WHEREAS, it is our duty as the Joint Inclusion Committee of the City of Austin to address and combat discrimination, prejudice, and hate in all its forms; WHEREAS, we recognize the importance of creating a community where every resident can live free from fear and discrimination; WHEREAS, we express profound sorrow and condemnation for the tragic loss of Israeli civilians in the attack on October 7th by Hamas, and we vehemently denounce the indiscriminate retaliation by the State of Israel, which has resulted in collective punishment upon the civilian population of Gaza; WHEREAS, we find it deeply troubling that a dehumanization narrative is being used to rationalize criminal acts of war within this ongoing conflict; WHEREAS, it is the solemn responsibility of the Austin City Council to uphold human rights principles and universal values; 1 NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Joint Inclusion Committee of the City of Austin firmly condemns all acts of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments within our city; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Joint Inclusion Committee recommends that the City of Austin through all applicable agencies to: Vigorously combat acts of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments by implementing programs and initiatives aimed at prevention, education, and awareness. Provide support to victims of hate crimes related to antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments by ensuring that resources and assistance are readily …
20240228-005 Recommendation 'Resolution on Combating Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and Anti-Arab Sentiments in the City of Austin and promoting...' — original pdf
JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) RECOMMENDATION 20240228-005 Resolution on Combating Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and Anti-Arab Sentiments in the City of Austin and promoting a peaceful resolution for all. Date: February 28th, 2024 Subject: Joint Endorsement of the Asian American Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission’s 20240116-005 Resolution on Combating Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and Anti-Arab Sentiments in the City of Austin and promoting a peaceful resolution for all. Motioned by: Commissioner Julie Glasser Seconded by: Commissioner Melissa Ortega RECOMMENDATION: In response to the ongoing Gaza Crisis and subsequent rise in hate-related incidents, the Joint Inclusion Committee recommends that City Council directs City staff to execute a coordinated public awareness campaign combating antisemitism, Islamophobia, and Anti-Arab sentiment and for the Austin Police Department to develop a comprehensive coordinated response to victims of violence stemming from rhetoric of the Gaza Crisis. DESCRIPTION OF RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL: WHEREAS, the City of Austin is dedicated to fostering a community that embraces diversity, racial equity, and upholds the principles of equality and human rights; WHEREAS, the attack on October 7th by Hamas has led to the tragic loss of Israeli civilians and the subsequent indiscriminate retaliation by the State of Israel has led to the continued loss of civilian lives in Gaza; WHEREAS, rhetoric as a result of the global conflict has led to incidents of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments rising within our city, posing a significant threat to the well-being and safety of our diverse communities; WHEREAS, it is our duty as the Joint Inclusion Committee of the City of Austin to address and combat discrimination, prejudice, and hate against Americans, immigrants, and refugees in all its forms in order to foster a community where every resident can live free from fear and discrimination; WHEREAS, that the Joint Inclusion Committee of the City of Austin firmly condemns all acts of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments within our city; 1 NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Austin City Council is called upon to direct City staff in executing a coordinated public awareness campaign that combats acts of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments by implementing programs and initiatives aimed at prevention, education, and awareness; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Austin Police Department coordinate with relevant community organizations and direct service agencies to develop a comprehensive coordinated response of enhanced and culturally appropriate victim’s services for those who experienced violence related to the rhetoric from the conflict; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that …
20240228-006 Recommendation 'Transparent Hiring in Executive Leadership' — original pdf
JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) RECOMMENDATION 20240228-006 Transparent Hiring in Executive Leadership Date: February 28th, 2024 Subject: Joint Endorsement of the Asian American Quality-of-Life Recommendation 20240220-007 Transparent Hiring in Executive Leadership Motioned by: Commissioner Serita Fontanesi Seconded by: Commissioner Morgan Davis RECOMMENDATION: The Joint Inclusion Committee recommends that City Council members continue to direct the City Manager to cultivate a transparent and coordinated process of hiring executive leadership positions within the City of Austin, including the roles of the City Manager and Directors. DESCRIPTION OF RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL: WHEREAS, the City of Austin is committed to upholding good governance principles, including transparency and public accountability; and WHEREAS, recent instances of five leadership positions, transitioning from interim to permanent without public notification and feedback, based on the City’s organizational chart released in September 2023 and January 2024, have raised concerns about transparency and fairness in the hiring process; and WHEREAS, additional questions remain regarding the efficacy of the grouping of strategic offices such as Equity, Sustainability, Civil Rights, Innovation, Small Minority Business Resources and Resilience, most which operate with interim or acting leadership and three under one acting director; and WHEREAS, Interim City Manager Jesús Garza, in a memo dated January 30, 2024, addressed these concerns by acknowledging ongoing communication with Council Members and outlining his plans for key personnel hires within the next 90 days; and WHEREAS, while the City Manager has discretion over hiring and organizational structure, the many appointed and newly created executive leadership positions since late 2022 has caused significant community and negative news concern; and 1 WHEREAS, a transparent and inclusive hiring process fosters public trust, attracts qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds, and ensures a deliberate selection of the best individual for the job; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE: 1. Strongly urges City Council to direct the City Manager to properly and meaningfully reinforce the authority of the Strategic Offices of Equity, Sustainability, Civil Rights, Innovation, Small Minority Business Resources and Resilience as equals alongside other City Departments with Director information listed in the City’s organizational chart; 2. Advises the City Council to adopt a policy requiring the City Manager to prioritize public listing and a competitive application process for executive leadership positions, including positions only open to internal hires; 3. Recommends that City Council considers requiring new City Manager leadership provide them with more frequent or regularly scheduled executive staffing and …
Recommendation 20240228-013 - Pro-Climate Food Choices in the Austin Food Plan — original pdf
Joint Sustainability Committee RECOMMENDATION 20240228-013 Date: February 28, 2024 Subject: Recommendation on supporting pro-climate food choices in the Austin Food Plan Motioned By: White Seconded By: Qureshi Recommendation: The Joint Sustainability Committee supports the work being done to develop the Austin Food Plan and recommends that a goal be added to “Support increasing awareness of the importance and benefits choosing pro-climate, pro-health foods and address barriers to accessing pro-climate, pro-health foods.” Strategies to achieve this goal should include education campaigns, partnerships with grocery stores and other food providers, incentives for plant-based alternatives to carbon-intensive foods, and changes to city purchasing policies. Rationale: The Joint Sustainability Committee supports an increased emphasis on encouraging and promoting pro-climate eating because: 1. Animal food products are responsible for at least between 11% and 20% of global greenhouse gas emissions. 2. There is a policy gap at all levels of government when it comes to addressing greenhouse gas emissions from food choices. 3. Awareness of the importance of food choices in mitigating climate change is lower compared to other climate solutions, such as switching to renewable energy. 4. Changing personal behaviors is possible but can be challenging and requires a dedicated effort. 5. While federal policies are a significant driving force behind the increased consumption of high-emission, unhealthy foods, food choices ultimately occur at the local and individual level. Local efforts can address information and accessibility gaps. a. Pro-climate, pro-health foods are available but are often not featured as prominently as high-carbon, unhealthy food options in local grocery stores. b. Pro-climate, pro-health foods are available, but some are more expensive. Vote: 13-0 Yes: Kaiba White, Rodrigo Leal, Anna Scott, Jon Salinas, Chris Maxwell-Gaines, Christopher Campbell, Haris Qureshi, Larry Franklin, Diana Wheeler, Melissa Rothrock, Amy Noel, Alberta Phillips, Heather Houser, Stephanie Bazan Recuse: Charlotte Davis Off Dais: Alberta Phillips Absent: Yure Suarez, Bertha Delgado Attest: Rohan Lilauwala, Staff Liaison
Recommendation 20240228-015 - Great Streets Initative — original pdf
Joint Sustainability Committee RECOMMENDATION 20240228-015 Date: February 28, 2024 Subject: Great Streets Initiative Motion by: Salinas Second: Davis Recommendation Support of the goals of the Great Streets Initiative that contribute to the Green Infrastructure Resolution. Description of Recommendation to Council The Joint Sustainability Committee recommends that the Austin City Council approve the proposed Great Streets Initiative that minimizes barriers to plant and maintain street trees located in city right-of-way for both public and private projects. Rationale: Prioritizing street trees in city right-of-way aligns with the goals of the Austin Climate Equity plan. Specifically, as it supports the improvement of air quality and temperature reduction within Austin’s Urban Core, provides for increased safety and comfort for cyclist and pedestrians and greatly contributes to the sequestration of carbon Vote: 14-0 Yes: Kaiba White, Rodrigo Leal, Anna Scott, Jon Salinas, Chris Maxwell-Gaines, Christopher Campbell, Haris Qureshi, Larry Franklin, Diana Wheeler, Melissa Rothrock, Amy Noel, Charlotte Davis, Heather Houser, Stephanie Bazan Off Dais: Alberta Phillips Absent: Yure Suarez, Bertha Delgado Attest: Rohan Lilauwala, Staff Liaison
Recommendation 20240228-017 - Environmental Impact Study for Parking — original pdf
Joint Sustainability Committee RECOMMENDATION 20240228-017 Date: February 28, 2024 Subject: Recommendation for Environmental Impact Study for Parking in Austin Motion by: Qureshi Second by: White WHEREAS, the Joint Sustainability Committee recognizes Austin is one of the fastest-growing metropolitan regions in the United States; and WHEREAS, the most common transportation means remains to be the motor vehicles, either personal or commercial, which require vehicle parking at end destinations; and WHEREAS, as the City of Austin is actively engaged in making policy decisions concerning the amount and type of parking that should be utilized in new development, understanding the environmental benefits and harms for each option would better inform these decisions; and WHEREAS, cities across the United States are turning to sustainable solutions to reduce the environmental impact of parking; and WHEREAS, technology regarding sustainable parking options has advanced significantly in vertical parking structures which reduce the impervious cover footprint. Some of those advancements; green roofs and walls, solar panels on the roof or walls, rain catchment systems and rain gardens, downcast lighting to reduce light pollution, and shade sails which can help reduce the heat; and WHEREAS, there are improved surface parking practices that include; bioswales to reduce runoff and retain the water for onsite trees and vegetation, solar panels that produce energy and offer shade, downcast lighting that reduces light pollution, tree and vegetation configuration that reduces heat island effects, sound and light pollution; and WHEREAS, there are also advancements in recycling cement from older parking structures or parking lots to be considered as well as in low-carbon concrete; and WHEREAS, there are existing parking facilities and infrastructure that have excess capacity or are underutilized during certain times of day and we should study the maximal use of these facilities. THEREFORE, The Joint Sustainability Committee requests that the City of Austin staff study the environmental impacts of different vehicle parking options. The report should analyze and determine what are the most environmentally friendly options that would advance the City’s goals, including achieving net-zero carbon 2 of 2 emissions in the Climate Equity Plan, Austin’s Strategic Mobility plan, SOS ordinance, and the city ordinance to eliminate parking from commercial developments. When assessing environmental impacts, the Committee asks that the study include a Life Cycle Assessment that considers all necessary raw material extraction and processing, manufacturing, distribution, use, and final disposal of materials, as well as other considerations including but not limited …
Approved Minutes — original pdf
BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, February 28, 2024 BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2024 The BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION convened in a REGULAR meeting on 28 February 2024, at the CITY OF AUSTIN PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER (PDC), 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE, ROOM 1405, in Austin, Texas. CHAIR SADÉ OGUNBODE called the BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION (BSC) Meeting to order at 6:38 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Sadé Ogunbode, Commissioners: Blaine Campbell, Michael Francis, Luis Osta Lugo, Logan Schugart, Edward Selig, and Timothy Stostad and Ex Officio Commissioner Chief Stephen Truesdell. Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Commissioner Joseph Benigno. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No one appeared before the Commission for Public Communication. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING on January 24, 2024 and the minutes of the SPECIAL CALLED MEETNG on February 12, 2024. The minutes from the meetings of January 24, 2024 and February 12, 2024 were approved on COMMISSIONER OSTA LUGO’s motion, COMMISSIONER CAMPBELL second on a 7-0 vote. COMMISSIONER SELIG was off dais. PUBLIC HEARINGS Conduct a public hearing and consider an appeal regarding case number CL 2024-004526; Property address: 1012 Reinli Street. 1. 2. COMMISSIONER SCHUGART moved to close the public hearing, COMMISSIONER FRANCIS second, with no objections. COMMISSIONER CAMPBELL moved to adopt 1 BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, February 28, 2024 the findings of fact, conclusions of law and adopt City staff’s recommendation for the owner to: 1) within 48 hours from the date of the hearing, secure or fix the locks of the gates of the enclosure surrounding the swimming pool, maintain the mechanism(s) used to secure or lock the gates of the enclosure surrounding the swimming pool, and request inspection to verify compliance; 2) if the gates of the enclosure surrounding the swimming pool have not been secured or fixed within 48 hours, authorize Code Official to proceed with securing the gates of the enclosure surrounding the swimming pool, and assess against the property any expenses incurred for securing the gates of the enclosure surrounding the swimming; 3) if the mechanism(s) to secure the gates surrounding the swimming pool are not maintained, authorize the Code Official to re-secure the gates, and assess against the property any expenses incurred for securing the gates of the enclosure surrounding the swimming pool may be; 4) within 45 days from the date …
Approved Minutes — original pdf
JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 28th, 2024 JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE convened a REGULAR meeting on WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 28th, 2024 at 3:00 P.M. CST in the CITY OF AUSTIN at the Boards and Commission Rooms #1101 in City Hall (301 W. 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701). Chair AMANDA AFIFI called the JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE meeting to order at 3:06 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hispanic/Latino Quality-of-Life Resource Advisory Commission: Amanda Afifi (Chair) Commission on Aging: Richard Bondi (Co-Chair) Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: African American Resource Advisory Commission: Serita Fontanesi Asian American Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission: Sonny Sin Commission on Immigrant Affairs: Melissa Ortega Commission for Women: Julie Glasser Early Childhood Council: Eliza Gordon Human Rights Commission: Morgan Davis LGBTQ Quality-of-Life Advisory Commission: Melissa Taylor Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities: Jennifer Powell Staff in Attendance: Alejandra Mireles, Community Services Program Coordinator, Equity Office AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the COMMITTEE’s REGULAR MEETING on January 24th, 2024. 1 JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 28th, 2024 The minutes were approved on COMMISSIONER MORGAN DAVIS’s motion, COMMISSIONER MELISSA TAYLOR’s second on a 10-0 vote. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff Briefing from Austin Transit Partnership on latest developments regarding Austin Light Rail. (Presenters: Lisa Storer, Program Manager, Sustainability and Design, Alvin Livingstone, SVP Engineering, and Yannis Banks, Public Involvement Manager) See back up for presentation. Staff in attendance to share advances of Austin’s Light Rail Project. Staff shares that the project is continuing, and work is being done in three areas – design, needing to meet National Environmental Protection Act, and receiving funding from the Federal Transit Authority. Staff share that a virtual open house will be available for voluntary feedback. COMMISSIONER RICHARD BONDI asks a follow up question: will the south section/option 2 will include a pedestrian access; answer, yes at the station and in the changes around 22-29th street from 22nd-27 there would be buses and bike lanes running through the center, while car vehicles would be rerouted. COMMISSIONER SONNY SIN thanks staff for presentation, asks a follow up question: is safety is being considered around the elevated platform on the south of …
Approved minutes from Feb 28 JSC Meeting — original pdf
JOINT SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING MEETING MINUTES Feb 28, 2024 The Joint Sustainability Committee convened in a hybrid meeting via videoconferencing and at Permitting and Development Center. Chair Kaiba White called the Board Meeting to order at 6:09 pm. Board Members in Attendance in Person: Kaiba White, Rodrigo Leal, Anna Scott, Jon Salinas, Chris Maxwell-Gaines, Christopher Campbell, Haris Qureshi, Charlotte Davis, Larry Franklin Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Diana Wheeler, Stephanie Bazan, Melissa Rothrock, Amy Noel, Heather Houser, Alberta Phillips Board Members Absent: Yure Suarez, Bertha Delgado City Staff in Attendance: Rohan Lilauwala, Zach Baumer CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION Charlie Mossburger – St. Edwards Civic lab. o Spoke about ‘Get Fertilizer Wiser’ program to replace plants that have low fertilizer requirements Chioma Okoro – street nurse o Spoke about mental health initiatives 1. Approval of minutes from the Jan 24th meeting of the Joint Sustainability Committee. Qureshi motions to approve, Davis seconds, passes on 13-0 vote (Franklin, Phillips off Commissioners discussed details and logistics of supporting a measure at length. dais) 2. Discussion on the benefits of adopting and implementing the Great Streets Initiative –Kevin Howard Presentation on Great Streets Initiative 15. Approve a recommendation supporting adoption and implementation of the Great Streets Initiative. Proposed amendments to clarify goals, add safety for bicycles and peds. Salinas motions to support goals of Great Streets Initiative. Salinas motions, Davis seconds, passes 14-0 (Phillips off dais). 3. Discussion of next steps on the Environmental Investment Plan Resolution (Item 25 from 2/15 Council Meeting). JSC will need to hold public hearing in May/Apr Mar – broad, public input Apr – narrow, possible staff draft list May 1 – JSC presentation due; May 30 – staff response due This is parallel with budget recommendations JSC has commissioners over many of the plans. Homework for March meeting – each working group to look at each of the plans related to their group. White to write a short message to share with home commissions 16. Creation of working group to advise on public input and recommendations that are responsive to the Environmental Investment Plan (Item 25 passed by the Austin City Council on 2/15). Office of Sustainability staff support for working group White, Leal, Scott, Qureshi, Davis, Salinas, Campbell, Franklin volunteer to be on White motions to create a …
Approved Minutes — original pdf
ETHICS REVIEW COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 28, 2024 The Ethics Review Commission convened in a Regular Commission meeting on February 28, 2024, at City Hall, Boards & Commissions Room #1101, at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas and via Videoconference. Chair Luis Soberon called the Ethics Review Commission Meeting to order at 6:14 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Luis Soberon, Vice-Chair Mary Kahle, Secretary Nguyen Stanton-Adams, and Commissioners Michael Lovins, Haksoon Andrea Low, and William Ross Pumfrey were present at City Hall. Commissioner Edward Espinoza was present remotely, however, due to not having signed the Sovereign Board Attendance and Conflict of Interest form, he will be counted as absent and his votes will be voided. Commissioners Absent: Amy Casto, Edward Espinoza, and Alysa Nuñez. City Staff in Attendance: Lizette Benitez, Staff Liaison; Caroline Webster, Commission Executive Liaison & Assistant City Attorney; and Victoria Hayslett, Commission Executive Liaison & Assistant City Attorney. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No one registered to speak during public communication. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Consideration, discussion, and potential action regarding: 1. Discussion of existing working groups (Race, Identity, and Equity Working Group, Working Group to Prepare Calendar of Commission Duties and Responsibilities, and Working Group to Review ERC Complaints Process), and potential amendments to current working group members. Chair Soberon’s motion to formally disband the Race, Identity, and Equity Working Group, was approved on a unanimous vote of all members present. Commissioner Pumfrey seconded the motion. Voting in favor: Chair Soberon, Vice-Chair Kahle, Secretary Stanton-Adams and Commissioners Lovins, Low and Pumfrey. Commissioners Casto, Espinoza and Nuñez were absent. 1 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Ethics Review Commission Regular Meeting on September 27, 2023. Vice-Chair Kahle’s motion to adopt the minutes failed on a 5-1 vote of all members present. Commissioner Lovins seconded the motion. Voting in favor: Chair Soberon, Vice-Chair Kahle, and Commissioners Lovins, Low and Pumfrey. Secretary Stanton-Adams abstained and Commissioners Casto, Espinoza and Nuñez were absent. 3. Approve the minutes of the Ethics Review Commission Regular Meeting on December 13, 2023. Secretary Stanton-Adams’ motion to adopt the minutes failed on a 5-1 vote of all members present. Commissioner Pumfrey seconded the motion. Voting in favor: Vice-Chair Kahle, Secretary Stanton-Adams, and Commissioners Lovins, Low and Pumfrey. Chair Soberon abstained and Commissioners Casto, Espinoza and Nuñez were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS • Update regarding the prior Candidate Forums surrounding the Austin …
Agenda — original pdf
HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY-OF-LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA FEBRUARY 27, 2024 REGULAR MEETING of the HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY-OF-LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION FEBRUARY 27th, 2024 at 6:00pm CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS RM #1101 301 W. 2ND STREET, AUSTIN, TX 78701 MEETING AGENDA This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, and some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or via telephone. Remote speakers must register in advance (February 26th by 12pm-Noon). All public comments will occur at the beginning of the meeting and public speakers will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. To speak or attend remotely, residents must contact the Equity Office’s Community Services Program Coordinator, Alejandra Mireles, no later than 12pm-noon on Monday, February 26th, 2024. Please telephone email voicemail alejandra.mireles@austintexas.gov. The information required is the speaker’s name, the 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). call & 974-8045 leave (512) or at a BOARD MEMBERS: District Commissioner District Commissioner Daniela Silva Amanda Afifi (Chair) Vanessa Maldonado Sharon Vigil Jesus Perales Leonor Vargas Ivanna Neri (Vice-Chair) 10 Dulce Castañeda Kevin M Jackson Jr. Mayor Eliza May Lyssette Galvan 7 8 9 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY-OF-LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA FEBRUARY 27, 2024 MEETING 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 COMMISSION’S REGULAR MEETING on JANUARY 23RD, 2024. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. WORKING GROUPS UPDATES 4. Conduct a public input session to collect feedback on the Commission’s Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Recommendations. Discussion on community input and feedback for Commission’s Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Recommendations. Budget & Policy Priorities Workgroup – updates from the last workgroup meeting on issues related to the FY25 and policy matters pertaining to their assignment (Budget & Policy Priorities Workgroup Members: Commissioners Amanda Afifi, Sharon Vigil, Jesus Perales, Dulce Castañeda, and Leonor Vargas). Language Access Workgroup – Updates on the newly formed workgroup on issues pertaining to their assignment (Language Access Workgroup Members: Amanda Afifi, Dulce Castaneda, Vanessa Maldonado, Daniela Silva, and Hector …
02 NPA-2023-0014.04 - 4302 Nuckols Crossing; District 2.pdf — original pdf
City of Austin Plann ing Departmen t P.O. Box 1088, Austin, TX 78767 -1088 (512) 974-3100 ♦ Fax (512) 974-3112 ♦ h tt ps://www.aust i nt exas.g ov/depar t ment /h ousi ng -and- planni ng MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: Claire Hempel, Chair & Planning Commission Members Maureen Meredith, Senior Planner, Inclusive Planning Division Planning Department DATE: February 20, 2024 RE: NPA-2023-0014.04_4302 Nuckols Crossing Southeast Combined (Franklin Park) Neighborhood Planning Area Staff requests a postponement of the above-referenced case from the February 27, 2024 Planning Commission hearing to the April 9, 2024 hearing date to allow additional time to review the plan amendment application in conjunction with a zoning application that has yet to be filed. The postponement request was made in a timely manner and meets the Planning Commission’s policy. Attachment: Plan Amendment Map The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will provide reasonable modifications and equal access to communications upon request. 1 of 202 NPA-2023-0014.04 - 4302 Nuckols Crossing; District 2 The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will provide reasonable modifications and equal access to communications upon request. 2 of 202 NPA-2023-0014.04 - 4302 Nuckols Crossing; District 2
03 NPA-2023-0025.01 - 5725 W. US Hwy 290 Eastbound; District 8.pdf — original pdf
City of Austin Plann ing Departmen t P.O. Box 1088, Austin, TX 78767 -1088 (512) 974-3100 ♦ Fax (512) 974-3112 ♦ h tt ps://www.aust i nt exas.g ov/depar t ment /h ousi ng -and- planni ng MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: Claire Hempel, Chair & Planning Commission Members Maureen Meredith, Senior Planner, Inclusive Planning Division Planning Department DATE: February 20, 2024 RE: NPA-2023-0025.01_5725 W. US Hwy 290 EB Oak Hill Combined (East Oak Hill) Neighborhood Planning Area Staff requests a postponement of the above-referenced case from the February 27, 2024 Planning Commission hearing to the April 23, 2024 hearing date to allow additional time to review the plan amendment application. The postponement request was made in a timely manner and meets the Planning Commission’s policy. Attachment: Plan Amendment Map The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will provide reasonable modifications and equal access to communications upon request. 1 of 203 NPA-2023-0025.01 - 5725 W. US Hwy 290 Eastbound; District 8 The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will provide reasonable modifications and equal access to communications upon request. 2 of 203 NPA-2023-0025.01 - 5725 W. US Hwy 290 Eastbound; District 8
04 NPA-2023-0005.02 - 600 Kemp; District 3.pdf — original pdf
City of Austin Plann ing Departmen t P.O. Box 1088, Austin, TX 78767 -1088 (512) 974-3100 ♦ Fax (512) 974-3112 ♦ h tt ps://www.aust i nt exas.g ov/depar t ment /h ousi ng -and- planni ng MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: Claire Hempel, Chair & Planning Commission Members Maureen Meredith, Senior Planner, Inclusive Planning Division Jonathan Tomko, Principal Planner, Current Planning Division Planning Department DATE: February 20, 2024 RE: NPA-2023-0005.02_600 Kemp Street Montopolis Neighborhood Planning Area Staff requests a postponement of the above-referenced case from the February 27, 2024 Planning Commission hearing to the April 23, 2024 hearing date to allow staff additional time to review the cases. The postponement request was made in a timely manner and meets the Planning Commission’s policy. Attachment: Plan Amendment Map The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will provide reasonable modifications and equal access to communications upon request. 1 of 3B-04 NPA-2023-0005.02 - 600 Kemp; District 3 The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will provide reasonable modifications and equal access to communications upon request. 2 of 3B-04 NPA-2023-0005.02 - 600 Kemp; District 3 The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will provide reasonable modifications and equal access to communications upon request. 3 of 3B-04 NPA-2023-0005.02 - 600 Kemp; District 3
05 NPA-2023-0005.01 - Montopolis-Fairway Mixed Use; District 3.pdf — original pdf
City of Austin Plann ing Departmen t P.O. Box 1088, Austin, TX 78767 -1088 (512) 974-3100 ♦ Fax (512) 974-3112 ♦ h tt ps://www.aust i nt exas.g ov/depar t ment /h ousi ng -and- planni ng Claire Hempel, Chair & Planning Commission Members Maureen Meredith, Senior Planner, Inclusive Planning Division Planning Department MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: RE: DATE: February 20, 2024 NPA-2023-0005.01_6202, 6204 Caddie Street; 1600, 1604, 1606, 1608, 1610, 1612, and 1614 Montopolis Drive; 6211, 6215 Fairway Street Montopolis-Fairway Mixed Use Montopolis Neighborhood Planning Area The applicant requests a postponement of the above-referenced case from the February 27, 2024 Planning Commission hearing to the March 26, 2024 hearing date to allow additional time to file the associated zoning application. Please see email from Victoria Haase, Thrower Design, LLC. The postponement request was made in a timely manner and meets the Planning Commission’s policy. Attachments: Victoria Haase’s email Plan Amendment Map The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will provide reasonable modifications and equal access to communications upon request. 1 of 305 NPA-2023-0005.01 - Montopolis-Fairway Mixed Use; District 3 From: Victoria Sent: Thursday, February 8, 2024 3:50 PM To: Meredith, Maureen <Maureen.Meredith@austintexas.gov>; Ron Thrower Subject: RE: Feb 27 PC PP date? NPA-2023-0005.01_Montopolis/Fairway External Email - Exercise Caution Let’s postpone to March 26th. Thank you, Maureen. Victoria Haase www.throwerdesign.com 512-998-5900 Cell 512-476-4456 Office Mail: P.O. Box 41957 Austin, Texas 78704 The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will provide reasonable modifications and equal access to communications upon request. 2 of 305 NPA-2023-0005.01 - Montopolis-Fairway Mixed Use; District 3 The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will provide reasonable modifications and equal access to communications upon request. 3 of 305 NPA-2023-0005.01 - Montopolis-Fairway Mixed Use; District 3
06 NPA-2023-0023.03.SH - 6304 Manor Road; District 4.pdf — original pdf
City of Austin Plann ing Departmen t P.O. Box 1088, Austin, TX 78767 -1088 (512) 974-3100 ♦ Fax (512) 974-3112 ♦ h tt ps://www.aust i nt exas.g ov/depar t ment /h ousi ng -and- planni ng MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: Claire Hempel, Chair & Planning Commission Members Maureen Meredith, Senior Planner, Inclusive Planning Division Planning Department DATE: February 20, 2024 RE: NPA-2023-0023.03.SH_6404 Manor Rd University Hills/Windsor Park Combined Neighborhood Planning Area Staff requests a postponement of the above-referenced case from the February 27, 2024 Planning Commission hearing to the April 23, 2024 hearing date to allow time to review the plan amendment application with the recently-filed zoning change application. The postponement request was made in a timely manner and meets the Planning Commission’s policy. Attachment: Plan Amendment Map The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will provide reasonable modifications and equal access to communications upon request. 1 of 206 NPA-2023-0023.03.SH - 6304 Manor Road; District 4 The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will provide reasonable modifications and equal access to communications upon request. 2 of 206 NPA-2023-0023.03.SH - 6304 Manor Road; District 4
07 NPA-2023-0029.02 - Humane Society of Austin & Travis County; District 4.pdf — original pdf
City of Austin Plann ing Departmen t P.O. Box 1088, Austin, TX 78767 -1088 (512) 974-3100 ♦ Fax (512) 974-3112 ♦ h tt ps://www.aust i nt exas.g ov/depar t ment /h ousi ng -and- planni ng MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: Claire Hempel, Chair & Planning Commission Members Maureen Meredith, Senior Planner, Inclusive Planning Division Planning Department DATE: February 20, 2024 RE: NPA-2023-0029.02_Humane Society of St. John/Coronado Hills Combined Neighborhood Planning Area Staff requests a postponement of the above-referenced plan amendment case from the February 27, 2024 to the April 23, 2024 hearing date to allow additional time to review the plan amendment application in conjunction with the pending zoning application The postponement request was made in a timely manner and meets the Planning Commission’s policy. Attachment: Plan Amendment Map The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will provide reasonable modifications and equal access to communications upon request. 1 of 207 NPA-2023-0029.02 - Humane Society of Austin & Travis County; District 4 The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will provide reasonable modifications and equal access to communications upon request. 2 of 207 NPA-2023-0029.02 - Humane Society of Austin & Travis County; District 4
08 NPA-2023-0014.03 - 7300 Metro Center; District 2.pdf — original pdf
Planning Commission: February 27, 2024 NEIGHBORHOOD PLAN AMENDMENT REVIEW SHEET NEIGHORHOOD PLAN: Southeast Combined (Southeast) CASE#: NPA-2023-0014.03 DATE FILED: July 24, 2023 PROJECT NAME: 7300 Metro Center PC DATE: February 27, 2024 ADDRESS/ES: 7300 Metro Center Drive DISTRICT AREA: 2 SITE AREA: 9.631 acres OWNER/APPLICANT: Veranda Apartment, LP AGENT: Drenner Group, PC (Leah M. Bojo) CASE MANAGER: Maureen Meredith PHONE: (512) 974-2695 STAFF EMAIL: Maureen.Meredith@austintexas.gov TYPE OF AMENDMENT: Change in Future Land Use Designation From: Industry To: Mixed Use Base District Zoning Change Related Zoning Case: C14-2023-0093 From: LI-NP To: LI-PDA-NP NEIGHBORHOOD PLAN ADOPTION DATE: October 10, 2002 CITY COUNCIL DATE: TBD ACTION: PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION: February 27, 2024 – (action pending) 1 of 3308 NPA-2023-0014.03 - 7300 Metro Center; District 2 Planning Commission: February 27, 2024 STAFF RECOMMENDATION: To not recommend the application’s request for Mixed Use land use. BASIS FOR STAFF’S RECOMMENDATION: Staff does not support the applicant’s request to change the future land use map (FLUM) from Industry to Mixed Use to allow the construction of 280 multifamily residential units because the property is located with the McKinney Jobs Center where residential uses are not compatible with the dominant industrial character of the area. Industrial land uses should be preserved to provide much needed space for small businesses, warehouse, manufacturing, and blue-collar jobs. Below are sections from the Southeast Combined Neighborhood Plan document: Industrial Zones (Page 55) A distinctive element of the existing land use landscape within the Planning Areas is that there are defined districts with large amounts of existing industrial development, and numerous undeveloped properties with industrial zoning. The fact that this part of southeast Austin is surrounded by major Southeast Combined Neighborhood Plan transportation corridors, has a large amount of undeveloped land, and is in close proximity to the airport makes it a very attractive location for industrial development. The McKinney and Southeast NPAs host the majority of this type of construction, much of this in the form of large industrial office parks. Instead of rejecting industrial-type development around their homes, residents in the Franklin Park and McKinney NPAs have been successful at communicating and cooperating with nearby industrial property owners. Area residents have traditionally been amenable to those types of industrial uses that don’t interfere with neighborhood activities or infringe upon their quality of life. Goal 4: Ensure that existing residential and industrial zoned properties co-exist in a compatible manner. (Page 56) Objective …