SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD FEBRUARY 2, 2026 – 6:00 PM PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1405 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TX 78752 Some members of the Parks and Recreation Board may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak, click here: https://forms.office.com/g/288JCH8wC1 or call or email Tim Dombeck, (512) 974-6716, Tim.Dombeck@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Stephanie Bazan (D-5), Chair Kathryn Flowers (D-4), Vice Chair Shelby Orme (D-1) Pedro Villalobos (D-2) Nicole Merritt (D-3) Luai Abou-Emara (D-6) Diane Kearns-Osterweil (D-7) Kim Taylor (D-8) AGENDA Jennifer Franklin (D-9) Ted Eubanks (D-10) Lane Becker (Mayor) CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of November 24, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. 3. Presentation, discussion and approve the Austin Parks and Recreation 2025 Annual Concession Report. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) (APR Long Range Strategies: Urban Public Spaces, Park Access for All). Presenter(s): Karen Charles, Contract Management Specialist and Denisha Cox, Contract Management Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation. Presentation, discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council to authorize the negotiation and execution of revenue legacy concession contract with Zilker Park Boat Rental to operate and maintain a watercraft concession at the Barton Creek location within Zilker Metropolitan Park. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) (APR Long Range Strategies: Urban Public Spaces, Park Access for All). Presenter(s): Lucas Massie, Assistant Director and Denisha Cox, Contract Management Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation. Page 1 of 2 4. 5. Presentation, discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council to authorize a contract for the rental of a mobile security trailer and monitoring services for various parkland areas for Austin Parks and Recreation with LiveView Technology d/b/a LVT, for an initial term of three years with up to two one-year extension options in an amount not to exceed …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES NOVEMBER 24, 2025 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES NOVEMBER 24, 2025 The PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD convened in a REGULAR meeting on November 24, 2025 at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas Chair Bazan called the PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Luai Abou-Emara, Stephanie Bazan, Lane Becker, Ted Eubanks, Diane Kearns-Osterweil, Pedro Villalobos. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Kathryn Flowers, Nicole Merritt, Shelby Orme. Board Members Absent: Jennifer Franklin, Kim Taylor. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Mark Eaton - Austin Rowing Club New Site Planning Mark May - Park funding and non-profit model APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of October 27, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of October 27, 2025 was approved on Board Member Villalobos’ motion, Board Member Abou-Emara’s second on a 9-0 vote. Board Members Franklin and Taylor absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for the Austin Parks and Recreation Cemeteries Team who have recently assumed responsibility for providing internment services. Jason Walker, Cemeteries Division Manager, Austin Parks and Recreation gave a presentation and answered questions on the history of unmarked graves, the previous internment contractor, and the success of converting an outsourced service into a service that the City provides directly. The motion to approve letters of support for the Austin Parks and Recreation Cemeteries Team who have recently assumed responsibility for providing internment services was approved on Chair Bazan’s motion, Board Member Eubanks’ second on a 9-0 vote. Board members Franklin and Taylor absent. Page 1 of 2 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES NOVEMBER 24, 2025 3. Presentation, discussion, and approve a recommendation to City Council to approve 6,327 sq. ft. of permanent waterline use on parkland located at Colorado River Park Wildlife Sanctuary and Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Metro Park, total mitigation to be paid by Austin Water Utility is $37,651. Paul Books, Principal Planner, Austin Parks and Recreation; Tony Buonodono, Engineer of Record, MWM Design Group; Bryce Barkus, Project Manager, Austin Capital Delivery Services, and; Megan Costey, Engineer, Austin Water gave a presentation and answered questions on the disturbance values of the subsurface work The motion to approve a recommendation to City Council to approve 6,327 sq. ft. of …
2025 Annual Concession Report Austin Parks and Recreation February 2, 2026 AUSTIN CITY CODE Austin City Code § 8-1-73 requires that on or before January 31st of each year, the director shall deliver a report to the Parks and Recreation Board and the Environmental Commission on the concessions granted under this division. The annual report, prepared under this section, shall include: The name of each concession operating in Town Lake Metropolitan Park; • • An income and expenditure statement for each concession; • • A statement describing any problems caused or created by a concession. The total number of watercrafts rented in Town Lake Metropolitan Park; and 2 Concessions Austin Rowing Club at Waller Creek Boathouse Butler Pitch and Putt EpicSUP Expedition School Lone Star Riverboat Cruises Rowing Dock Texas Rowing Center Zilker Café (temporarily closed) Zilker Eagle Railroad Zilker Park Boat Rentals 3 3 Contract Terms 4 Concession Legacy Policy and Procedure Update Background Criteria • May 2025 APR began work to update the policy and procedures for concessions in the City park system. • A Legacy Concession is an existing concession operating in the Parks System under an agreement with the City that: • City Code Title 8 grants the APR director the authority and responsibility to execute policies and procedures for concessions in CoA parks in accordance with City policies and best practices. • Original policy and procedures were superseded on March 12, 1998, and adopted by Council Resolution 900312-25. • Revised policy approved by City Council under resolution 20251106-043 on November 6, 2025. Has been continuously owned and operated in the same park location by the same person, Local Business or a family member of the person or owner of the Local Business for at least 20 years; Operated under same or similar name throughout its existence; Contributes to the City’s history and culture; and Maintained its physical features in good condition. 5 s n o i l l i M $3.5 $3.0 $2.5 $2.0 $1.5 $1.0 $0.5 $0.0 Butler Pitch and Putt (Pecan Grove Golf Partners) EpicSUP Expedition School Lone Star Riverboats Rowing Dock Texas Rowing Center Austin Rowing Club at Waller Creek Boathouse Zilker Eagle Zilker Park Boat Rentals Gross Sales $3,162,289 Reported Expenditures $2,081,685 Payments $270,181 $239,133 $179,217 $29,312 $16,687 $11,138 $1,553 $965,154 $932,214 $96,953 $1,561,592 $2,213,668 $3,521,710 $1,304,846 $1,935,634 $3,680,983 $673,691 $572,637 $149,523 $297,949 $266,423 $- $822,596 $589,319 …
Contents Executive Summary ......................................................................................................................................................... 1 Concession Locations ....................................................................................................................................................... 2 Concession Contracts ....................................................................................................................................................... 3 Contract Terms New Concessions Solicitations 3 4 4 Zilker Café ........................................................................................................................................................................... 4 Contract Extensions 5 Austin Rowing Club at Waller Creek Boathouse ................................................................................................................ 5 Lone Star Riverboat ............................................................................................................................................................ 6 Rowing Dock ....................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Zilker Park Boat Rental ....................................................................................................................................................... 6 APR Concession Policy and Procedure Update 7 Parkland Operation and Management Agreements .......................................................................................................... 8 POMA Concessions 9 EpicSUP ............................................................................................................................................................................... 9 Texas Rowing Center ........................................................................................................................................................ 10 Problem Areas, Challenges, and Strategic Actions .......................................................................................................... 11 Audit of Agreements with Trail Conservancy Austin Rowing Club Expedition School Zilker Eagle Waterway Ban Barton Creek Concession Feasibility Barton Creek Streambank Restoration 11 11 12 13 14 15 15 Watercraft Census ......................................................................................................................................................... 16 Concession Sales, Payments, and Expenditures .............................................................................................................. 19 Revenue Share Payments 20 Capital Improvements and Equipment Updates ............................................................................................................. 23 Butler Pitch and Putt ........................................................................................................................................................ 23 Rowing Dock ..................................................................................................................................................................... 23 i Public Benefit ................................................................................................................................................................ 24 Austin Rowing Club .......................................................................................................................................................... 24 Butler Pitch and Putt ........................................................................................................................................................ 25 EpicSUP ............................................................................................................................................................................. 25 Expedition School ............................................................................................................................................................. 25 Lone Star Riverboat .......................................................................................................................................................... 25 Rowing Dock ..................................................................................................................................................................... 26 Texas Rowing Center ........................................................................................................................................................ 26 Zilker Park Boat Rentals ................................................................................................................................................... 26 Zilker Eagle ....................................................................................................................................................................... 26 Concessions Outside of Town Lake Park ......................................................................................................................... 27 Short-Term Permits Concessions at Golf Courses 27 27 Parks and Recreation Board Recommendations ............................................................................................................. 28 Environmental Commission Recommendations .............................................................................................................. 28 Appendix 1. Austin Parks and Recreation Concession Policy and Procedure Update ........................................................ 31 Appendix 2. Temporary Concessions and Commercial Use Report FY25 .......................................................................... 32 Appendix 3. Austin Lake Water Protection Plan and Marine Waste Information ............................................................. 35 ii Executive Summary The mission of Austin Parks and Recreation (APR) is to inspire Austin to learn, play, protect and connect by creating diverse programs and experiences in sustainable natural spaces and public places. In carrying out its mission, APR has established nine permanent concessions in Town Lake Park that provide recreation services. These services include rentals of canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs); rowing instruction and memberships; food and beverage sales; short-course golf; excursion boats; and a mini train. The concessions were established pursuant to City of Austin Code Section 8-1-71, which authorizes the director of Austin Parks and Recreation to allow a concessionaire to operate a food or beverage, rental, or service concession in Town Lake Park. Additionally, Section 8-1-73 requires that on or before January 31st of each year, the director shall deliver a report to the Austin …
Appendix 1 AUSTIN PARKS AND RECREATION POLICY Subject Section Applicability Director Approval Policy: Policies and Procedures for Concessions in City’s Parks System Finance All Personnel Jesús Aguirre Digitally signed by Jesús Aguirre Date: 2025.12.05 14:02:47 -06'00' Reference Number PR-F-004 Effective Date November 6, 2025 Supersedes Policy Dated March 12, 1998 Signature Date December 5, 2025 It is the policy of Austin Parks and Recreation to maintain the aesthetic and environmental quality of the Parks System, provide positive recreational experiences to park visitors, and ensure a financial return to the City from park concessions. Purpose: To provide a policy for concessions in City of Austin parks. Authority: The Code of the City of Austin Texas, City Charter, Article V Administrative Organization, §4 Directors of Departments. The Director has the authority and responsibility to maintain efficiency within the operation and to determine the methods of operation to accomplish the Department’s mission and objectives. DEFINITIONS Applicable Rules – The applicable provisions of City Code Title 8, the Park Use Rules, and these Policies and Procedures, as they may be amended from time to time. Concession - a business owned by a private citizen or a privately-owned business operating in the Parks System pursuant to an agreement between the City and the citizen or business or a permit issued by the Department. Examples include, but are not limited to, food and beverage stands, boat and watercraft recreation services, bicycle rentals, pushcarts, and souvenir stands. Concessionaire – a private citizen or privately owned business operating a Concession. Director – the Director of the Department or designee. Family Member – means a biological or adoptive parent, biological or adoptive grandparent, spouse (husband, wife, domestic partner), child (biological, adopted, stepchild, foster, legal ward), sibling (biological, adopted, stepsibling), and parent, grandparent, or sibling of a spouse. Effective Date November 6, 2025 Supersedes Policy Date March 12, 1998 Reference Number PR-F-004 Page 1 of 5 Legacy Concession – an existing concession operating in the Parks System pursuant to a concession agreement with the Department that: (cid:120) Has been continuously owned and operated in the same park location by the same person, Local Business, or a Family Member of the person or Local Business for at least 20 years; (cid:120) Has operated under the same or a similar name for the entirety of its existence; (cid:120) Contributes to the City’s history and culture, as determined by the Department in its …
Zilker Park Boat Rental Legacy Concession on Barton Creek Parks and Recreation Board Meeting Austin Parks and Recreation | February 2, 2026 Presented by: Lucas Massie, Assistant Director Denisha Cox, Contract Management Supervisor II Legacy Concession Policy Authority Revised Policies and Procedures for Concessions in City of Austin Parks approved by Council on November 6, 2025, under Resolution 20251106-043 In accordance with City Code Title 8, the Austin Parks and Recreation Director has the authority and responsibility to execute policies and procedures for concessions in Austin parks in accordance with City policies and best practices and under City Code: 8-1-71-73. The Director shall evaluate a proposed Legacy Concession and determine in their sole discretion whether it meets the requirements set forth in these Policies and Procedures. 2 Legacy Concession Policy Legacy Concession Criteria A Legacy Concession is an existing concession operating in the Parks System under an agreement with the Department that: Has been continuously owned and operated in the same park location by the same person, Local Business, or a family member of the person or owner of the Local Business for at least 20 years; Has operated under the same or a similar name throughout its existence; Contributes to the City’s history and culture, as determined solely by the Department; and Has maintained its physical features in good condition. 3 Current Zilker Park Boat Rental Agreement Zilker Park Boat Rentals opened for business in 1969 as a canoe rental service for Barton Creek and Town Lake. Later they included kayaks and stand-up paddle boards (SUPs) among their boat inventories. Current Agreement: On February 28, 2006, the City of Austin entered into a revenue concession agreement. The initial agreement period expired on March 1, 2011, with two additional five-year extensions. The City extended this agreement four additional times with the last extension expiring on February 28, 2026. 4 Current Zilker Park Boat Rental Agreement Revenue Share: The agreement includes revenue obligations: Payment of minimum $18,000 annually plus 10% of any amount over $180,000 gross revenues. Annual Gross Revenue Annual Concession Payments-City FY25: $755,059 FY24: $902,856 FY23: $994,395 FY22: $1,124,276 FY21: $915,893 FY25: $75,506 FY24: $90,285 FY23: $99,548 FY22: $134,607 FY21: $91,589 5 New Legacy Concession Agreement Term An Initial Term of Ten (10) years with Two optional Five-Year Extensions Updated …
Trailers With Security Camera Pilot and Recommendations Austin Parks and Recreation February 2, 2026 Background: Rising Property Crime The pilot program was a strategic response to a critical surge in Burglary of Vehicle (BOV)offenses across major park locations. Safety Impact: High crime rates made it difficult for families to feel secure in parks. Strategic Deployment: Locations were chosen based on specific APD historical crime data. MEASURABLE SUCCESS: IMPACT ON CRIME 76% REDUCTION IN BOV 9/15 PARKS IMPROVED Incidents at Mt. Bonnell (Covert Park) dropped from 373 to 88 cases during the pilot period. The majority of participating sites saw an immediate decrease in reported criminal activity Deterrence Factor: Prominently placed trailers served as a high-visibility warning to potential offenders 3 UPHOLIDING PRIVACY STANDARDS LONGTERM CONTRACT Exclusive Ownership: The City of Austin maintains 100% control of all footage. Secure Storage: Hosted in a CJIS- compliant cloud with U.S.-based encryption. Strict Prohibitions: No facial recognition or biometric identification technology used. Auto-Deletion: All data is permanently purged after 60 days unless required for investigation. 4 LOOKING AHEAD: IMPLEMENTATION MASTER AGREEMENT STATUS Contract with Live View Technology (LVT) scheduled for City Council 2/5/2026. 3-Year Initial Term: Plus two 1-year extension options. Community Transparency: Mandatory signage at every monitored parking lot. Targeted Focus: Strategic placement in areas with high property crime historical rates. 5 Questions
MEMORANDUM To: Mayor and City Council Through: Stephanie Hayden-Howard, LMSW, Assistant City Manager From: Date: Subject: Jesús Aguirre, MBA, CPRE, Director, Austin Parks and Recreation January 26, 2026 Security Trailer and Monitoring Services - Pilot Program, Privacy and Data Governance, and Recommendations for Implementation The purpose of this memorandum is to inform the Mayor and City Council of the results of Austin Parks and Recreation’s recent initiative to enhance public safety through the strategic deployment of trailers with security cameras for various parkland areas. The following memorandum provides a summary analysis of the multi-year pilot program, addresses considerations regarding technology and data privacy, and provides recommendations for implementation. Pilot Program Austin Parks and Recreation (APR) is committed to ensuring that Austin’s parks are welcoming, inclusive, and safe for all residents and visitors. The trailers with security cameras pilot program were initiated as a strategic response to recurring incidents of property crime, most notably Burglary of Vehicle (BOV) offenses, in parking lots at parks with high visitor use. At the start of the pilot, there were some park locations with more than 100 BOVs a year, making it increasingly difficult for families and parkgoers to feel secure with these levels of property crime. Deployment locations for the trailers with security cameras were determined through a collaborative process with Austin Police utilizing historical crime data to identify areas of highest concern. Many of the trailers were placed in parking lots where BOVs were occurring. Since APR launched the pilot program in 2022 across several area parks, Austin Police has observed an overall reduction in crime, particularly burglary of vehicles. (See Table 1 on Page 3.) Not all the parks monitored began the pilot program at the same time or used the trailers with security cameras for the same duration. Of the 15 parks that participated in this pilot program, nine experienced a decrease in reported incidents of crime during or after trailer deployment. Several of these parks demonstrated a lasting positive impact in the reduction of crime even once the trailers were removed. These included Barton Creek Greenbelt, Mayfield Park & Preserve, Northwest District Park, Turner Roberts Recreation Center, Roy G. Guerrero Park, and Zilker Park. Other parks (Redbud Isle and St. Edwards Park) recorded declines in crime while the trailers with security Date: Subject: January 26, 2026 SecurityTrailers and Monitoring Services - Pilot Program, Privacy and Data Governance, and Recommendations for …
AUSTIN PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR’S UPDATE January 2026 Recreation Services Division Athletics: Adult Volleyball Tournament The APR Athletics Office hosted a volleyball tournament on January 10th at the Austin Recreation Center. The tournament reached maximum capacity, with exciting, high-energy play, and look forward to future tournaments. Community Initiatives: Youth Scholarships Through community donations made to the Parks and Library fund, along with support from APF, qualified families are starting to receive scholarship funds to help pay for APR programs like summer camp, sports, and after school programs. Last year, scholarship usage reached its highest total, exceeding $168,000. Design Assessments Therapeutic Recreation: Universal Universal Design promotes environments and services usable by all without the need for adaptation. Assessments identify accessibility improvement opportunities and include written reports and action plans for each site. 75% of APR Recreation Centers have been assessed, with the project concluding in January 2026. Sustainability and Resilience Division Holiday Tree Recycling at Zilker Austin Parks and Recreation and Austin Resource Recovery partnered for the 39th year of Holiday Tree Recycling at Zilker Metro Park during the two weekends after Christmas. Approximately 1,500 pine trees were diverted from the landfill and turned into mulch which was offered free to the public. Over 40 volunteers worked together with Park Rangers, Forestry staff, Zilker Park Grounds staff, Austin Resource Recovery marketing and communications team members and the ARR mulching crew. Special thanks to APR Program Manager Meredith Gauthier for coordinating this event over the last several years! Park Planning Division Circle C Ranch Metropolitan Park DOLA The fenced Dog Off-Leash Area is back in place at Circle C Ranch Metro Park. Located near trail parking area of Donald E. Carpenter Way Temporary fencing will remain in place while the design is developed for a permanent space, sponsored by the District 8 Council Office. Park Planning Division New Playground at Rosewood Neighborhood Park APR partnered with Austin Parks Foundation to renovate the Rosewood Neighborhood Park playground. The existing playscape equipment included swings and a small ship-themed play structure. It offered little shade or play value for visitors. Community members identified values and priorities for the park improvements via onsite pop-ups and online surveys. The new playscape is open to the public! Work on additional improvements including a new pavilion, upgraded sidewalks, seating, and new shade trees are underway. This project was funded by Austin Parks Foundation. https://www.austintexas.gov/rosewoodplayground Park Development Division Upcoming Ribbon …
Local Standards of Care Austin Parks and Recreation | February 2, 2026 Ordinance State of Texas Human Resource Code Ch. 42 exempts municipalities of Child Care Licensure Annually adopts standards of care by ordinance after a public hearing Specific to elementary-age (ages 5-13) programs Mechanism for monitoring and enforcing ordinance Minimum staffing/ supervision ratios Minimum staff qualifications Minimum facility, health and safety standards Means of distribution 2 Board Action Approve a recommendation to Austin City Council to adopt Local Standards of Care for the City of Austin Parks and Recreation and Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment's Youth Programs • Public Hearing as required for State of Texas, Child Care Licensing exemption for youth programs operated by a municipality. • Austin City Council – March 26, 2026 3
ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING LOCAL STANDARDS OF CARE FOR THE AUSTIN PARKS AND RECREATION'S AND AUSTIN ARTS, CULTURE, MUSIC, AND ENTERTAINMENT'S YOUTH RECREATIONAL PROGRAMS. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: PART 1. AUTHORITY. The Council adopts these local standards of care for the Austin Parks and Recreation’s and Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment's youth recreational programs pursuant to Texas Human Resources Code Section 42.041 (Required License) and its home rule authority. PART 2. DEFINITIONS. In this ordinance: (A) ACTIVITY LEADER means a person responsible for the direct care or supervision of participants. The term excludes a person whose primary duties include administration, clerical support, food preparation, or facility maintenance. (B) DEPARTMENT'S means the Austin Parks and Recreation and the Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment. (C) DIRECTOR means the director of the Austin Parks and Recreation. (D) (E) (F) FACILITY means a building or improvement operated or used by the department in conducting a recreational program. PARTICIPANT means a child aged five to 13 years old who is enrolled in a recreational program and is under the supervision of department staff. RECREATIONAL PROGRAM means a fee-based children’s program or activity offered and supervised by the department that requires a participant to enroll or register to participate. (G) VOLUNTEER means a person assisting without remuneration in the care or supervision of participants. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 3/7/2023 4:35 PM Page 1 of 7 COA Law Department (H) VOLUNTEER means a person assisting without remuneration 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 PART 3. PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION. (A) The department's shall operate recreational programs in compliance with appropriate State law, this ordinance, and the department’s rules adopted by this ordinance. (B) The department's shall administer the programs. PART 4. PROGRAM RULES; MONITORING. (A) The director shall adopt rules relating to the operation of the programs. A rule adopted under this ordinance may be more restrictive than the minimum standards adopted by this ordinance. (B) The department's shall monitor the programs to ensure compliance with the standards adopted by this ordinance and …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20260202-3 Date: February 2, 2026 Subject: Zilker Park Boat Rentals Legacy Concession Agreement Motioned By: Ted Eubanks Seconded By: Diane Kearns-Osterweil Recommendation The Parks and Recreation Board recommends to Austin City Council to authorize the negotiation and execution of revenue legacy concession contract with Zilker Park Boat Rental to operate and maintain a watercraft concession at the Barton Creek location within Zilker Metropolitan Park. Vote: The motion to recommend to Austin City Council to authorize the negotiation and execution of revenue legacy concession contract with Zilker Park Boat Rental to operate and maintain a watercraft concession at the Barton Creek location within Zilker Metropolitan Park was approved on Board Member Eubanks motion, Board Member Kearns-Osterweil’s second on a 6-0 vote. Board Members Bazan, Merritt, Orme, Taylor and Villalobos absent. For: Luai Abou-Emara, Lane Becker, Ted Eubanks, Kathryn Flowers, Jennifer Franklin, Diane Kearns-Osterweil. Against: None. Abstain: None. Absent: Stephanie Bazan, Nicole Merritt, Shelby Orme, Kim Taylor, Pedro Villalobos. Attest: Tim Dombeck, Board and Council Liaison, Austin Parks and Recreation.
REGULAR MEETING of the MUSIC COMMISSION February 2, 2026 6:30 PM CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS ROOM 1001, 301 W 2ND STREET, Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Music Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Shelbi Mitchell, 512-974-6318, Shelbi.Mitchell@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Nagavalli Medicharla - Chair, Pedro Carvalho – Vice Chair, Joe Silva – Parliamentarian, Nelson Aguilar, Tami Blevins, Clarissa Cardenas, Clayton England, Cornice “Ray” Price Jr., Penny Jo Pullus, Celeste Quesada 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 Music Commission meeting on January 5, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on Live Music Fund collections by Kim McCarson, Program Manager, Music & Entertainment Division, Austin Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment (AACME). 3. Staff briefing on FY24 Austin Live Music Fund final reports by Erica Shamaly, Division Manager, Music & Entertainment Division, AACME. 4. Staff briefing on Austin-Bergstrom Airport (AUS) live music performances/booking by Erica Shamaly, Division Manager, and Greg Gonzalez, Program Manager, Music & Entertainment Division, AACME. 5. Staff briefing on AACME funding programs by Laura Odegaard, Acting Division Manager, AACME. 6. Staff briefing on AACME department objectives and goals for 2026 by Candice Cooper, Acting Chief Administrative Officer, AACME. DISCUSSION ITEMS 7. Austin Convention Center Project and benefits to Hotel Occupancy Tax and creative community following presentation by Katy Zamesnik, Acting Deputy Director, Austin Convention Center and Morgan Messick, Assistant Director, AACME. 8. Downtown Commission update on priorities and recent actions by Parliamentarian Silva. 9. Music Commission strategic planning for 2026. 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 …
Hotel Occupancy Tax Collections Live Music Fund Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment February 2 , 2026 FY 26 Year-to-Date Hotel Occupancy Tax Collections – Live Music Fund December 2025 w/ Encumbrances $18,226 FY26 Year-to-Date w/ Encumbrances $959,845 % Change in Year–to-Date Total 10% $17,874 $312,748 $827,586 $19,399 $338,773 $854,923 $12,938 $323,076 $798,287 $5,509 $217,400 $744,461 $4,573 $472,660 $716,095 $36,835 $335,537 $782,771 $19,180 $288,001 $856,608 $5,354 $172,557 $754,925 $26,351 $1,123,522 $21,687 $16,485 $352,514 $816,197 $48,397 $316,607 $809,445 $17,407 $159,710 $696,141 FY 23 October April November May FY 24 December June January July FY 25 February August FY 26 March September $18,226 $179,271 $762,348 2
Music Commission Meeting Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment | Feb 2, 2026 FY24 Austin Live Music Fund – Current Stats ▪ 136 grant awards accepted so far out of 136 total grant awards (100%) ▪ 136 signed agreements so far out of 136 total grant agreements (100%) ▪ 136 completed Grant Agreement Orientations so far out of 136 total awardees (100%) ▪ 136 completed Financial Information Forms out of 136 forms sent so far to awardees (100%) ▪ 135 first payments paid so far out of 136 total awardees (99%) ▪ 110 second payments paid so far out of 136 total awardees (80%) ▪ 58 final payments paid so far out of 136 total awardees (43%) 2 Thank you! 3
Funding Programs Update Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment | February 2, 2026 REVISED Funding Program Timeline December 19, 2025 February 2026 April 2026 REVISED Application Deadline REVISED Panel Meetings Occur 6:59 PM REVISED Funding distribution begins (Activities are still for calendar year 2026) REVISED Austin Live Music Fund and Creative Space Assistance Program scored REVISED Panelists trained and assigned (Elevate and Heritage Preservation Grant) REVISED Funding Decisions announced Nexus Application Opens Thrive, Elevate, Austin Live Music Fund, and Heritage Preservation Grant application cycle begins January 2026 March 2026 July 2026 2 Funding Programs: Funds Available Austin Live Music Fund • $5,000 - $70,000 • Music Industry (musicians, independent promoters, venues) $7 Million ~380 awards Creative Space Assistance Program • $60,000 • Commercial creative spaces $1.6 Million ~25 awards Elevate • Up to $30,000 - $80,000 • Arts organizations, individual artists, creative businesses $13 Million ~250 awards Heritage Preservation Grant • $50,000 - $250,000 • Preservation projects and activities $3 Million ~25 awards 3 Eligible (Application sent) Ineligible (No Application sent) Applications Submitted Funding Programs: Application Status • 2,085 Intake Forms Submitted (2,065 EN; 20 SP) Austin Live Music Fund Creative Space Assistance Elevate Heritage Preservation EN SP EN SP EN SP EN SP Eligibility Forms Sent Eligibility Forms Submitted 1,377 1,111 16 299 10 6 138 0 1,399 1,060 25 247 8 14 125 1 991 4 72 0 855 9 67 1 ALL PROGRAMS TOTAL 3,381 2,455 1,999 120 2 66 0 205 5 58 0 456 806 3 64 0 680 7 46 0 1,607 4 Funding Programs: Ineligibility Reasons Detailed Breakdown for Austin Live Music Fund Applicants Does Not Qualify By Definition Live Music Venue Does Not Qualify By Definition Indepedent Promoter Independent Promoter tied to venue Insufficient evidence (Live music venue) Insufficient evidence (Independent Promoter) Insufficient evidence (Professional Musician) Operating budget under $60k (LMV) Lives outside MSA Full time City of Austin employee Under age 18 2% 6% 4% 8% 24% 24% 5% 6% 3% 3% Yes nonprofit 13% On Non-Complaint List 1% 5 Funding Programs: Austin Live Music Fund Detailed Applicant Breakdown ▪ $70,000 Live Music Venue Applicants – 46 ~22 Awards anticipated ▪ $20,000 Applicants – 590 ▪ 49 Independent Promoters ▪ 541 Professional Musicians (3 Spanish) ▪ $5,000 Applicants – 173 ▪ 9 Independent Promoters ▪ 164 Professional Musicians ~242 Awards anticipated ~120 Awards anticipated 6 Funding Programs: Feedback Loop ▪ Internal Retrospective …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 6:00 P.M. AUSTIN PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1406 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR. AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Human Rights 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 at ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov or 512-974-3568 CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Kolby Duhon, Chair (He/They) Muneeb “Meebs” Aslam (He/Him) Melinda Avitia Harriett Kirsh Pozen Maryam Khawar Gabriella Zeidan, Vice Chair Danielle Bryant Morgan Davis (He/Him) Mariana Krueger (She/Her) Tannya Oliva Martínez 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 Human Rights Commission regular meeting on November 24, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. 3. Approve the formation of a working group to provide budget recommendations for the City of Austin FY2026-27 budget. Approve a recommendation to City Council regarding Austin Police Department’s involvement with United States Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE). WORKING GROUP UPDATES 4. Update from the Human Rights Resource Guide Working Group regarding progress on the working group goals. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Ryan Sperling at Austin City Clerk’s Office, at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov, to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Human Rights Commission, please contact Ryan Sperling at 512-974- 3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov.
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number (20260202-003): Recommendation to City Council regarding Austin Police Department’s involvement with United States Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE): WHEREAS, The Human Rights Commission advises the City of Austin on policies that protect civil rights, prevent discrimination, and promote fair and equitable treatment of all Austinites; and WHEREAS, public safety depends on trust between the community and local law enforcement, especially for victims who must feel safe calling 911 and reporting crimes; and WHEREAS, civil immigration enforcement is the responsibility of the federal government through U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), not our local police departments; and WHEREAS, when local law enforcement become involved in civil immigration matters, community members are less likely to seek help or report crimes due to fear; and WHEREAS, in January 2026, the Austin Police Department (APD) transferred a mother and her young child to ICE after responding to a disturbance call, raising widespread public concern about APD policies and practices; and WHEREAS, APD leadership has expressed that department policies related to ICE contact are under review; and WHEREAS, City legal guidance has acknowledged that Texas law under Senate Bill 4 limits the City’s ability to prohibit all cooperation with federal immigration authorities, but it does not require cities to expand local policing into civil immigration enforcement; and WHEREAS, Mayor Pro Tem Vela has stated that while a blanket prohibition on ICE contact is restricted by state law, the City retains discretion to adopt certain policies that prioritize public safety and community trust; and WHEREAS, such policies could include clear guidance which ensures that ICE notifications occur rarely, require supervisory approval, and be limited to cases involving serious or violent offenses; and WHEREAS, publicly available information shows that APD has contacted ICE numerous times in recent years based on administrative immigration warrants, raising concerns about consistency, transparency, and impacts on community trust; and WHEREAS, residents across Austin and Texas have expressed significant concern about the actions of ICE on civil liberties, including through public demonstrations and walkouts; and WHEREAS, research has shown that increased partnership between local police and federal immigration enforcement is associated with reduced crime reporting, weakened police– community relationships, and negative public safety outcomes; and WHEREAS, local government has a responsibility to protect civil liberties, maintain public trust, and act in the best interests of the people it serves; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED That the …
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, November 24, 2025 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, November 24, 2025, at 301 W. 2nd St., Boards & Commissions Room, in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon Maryam Khawar Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Muneeb “Meebs” Aslam Danielle Bryant Morgan Davis Harriett Kirsh Pozen Tannya Oliva Martinez PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on October 20, 2025. The minutes of the October 20, 2025 meeting were approved without objection on Commissioner Kirsh Pozen’s motion. Commissioner Bryant was off the dais. Commissioners Morgan Avitia, Krueger, and Zeidan were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Briefing regarding Austin Homeless Strategies and Operations’ current homelessness response efforts and key metrics. Briefing by David Gray, Director, Austin Homeless Strategies and Operations. The presentation was made by David Gray, Director, Austin Homeless Strategies and Operations. 1 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Discussion and possible action to amend the 2025 Annual Schedule to remove the December 2025 meeting. The 2025 Annual Schedule was amended to remove the December meeting on Commissioner Bryant’s motion, Commissioner Kirsh Pozen’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Morgan Avitia, Krueger, and Zeidan were absent. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 4. Update from the Human Rights Resource Guide Working Group regarding the status of the resource guide. Update by Commissioner Bryant. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Update working group membership – Duhon, Bryant Discussion on children in foster care and the pipeline – Aslam, Davis Human Rights Resource Guide Working Group Update – Bryant, Duhon ADJOURNMENT Chair Duhon adjourned the meeting without objection at 6:58 p.m. 2
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number (20260202-01) Recommendation to City Council regarding Austin Police Department’s involvement with United States Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE): WHEREAS, The Human Rights Commission advises the City of Austin on policies that protect civil rights, prevent discrimination, and promote fair and equitable treatment of all Austinites; and WHEREAS, public safety depends on trust between the community and local law enforcement, especially for victims who must feel safe calling 911 and reporting crimes; and WHEREAS, civil immigration enforcement is the responsibility of the federal government through U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), not our local police departments; and WHEREAS, when local law enforcement become involved in civil immigration matters, community members are less likely to seek help or report crimes due to fear; and WHEREAS, in January 2026, the Austin Police Department (APD) transferred a mother and her young child to ICE after responding to a disturbance call, raising widespread public concern about APD policies and practices; and WHEREAS, APD leadership has expressed that department policies related to ICE contact are under review; and WHEREAS, City legal guidance has acknowledged that Texas law under Senate Bill 4 limits the City’s ability to prohibit all cooperation with federal immigration authorities, but it does not require cities to expand local policing into civil immigration enforcement; and WHEREAS, Mayor Pro Tem Vela has stated that while a blanket prohibition on ICE contact is restricted by state law, the City retains discretion to adopt certain policies that prioritize public safety and community trust; and WHEREAS, such policies could include clear guidance which ensures that ICE notifications occur rarely, require supervisory approval, and be limited to cases involving serious or violent offenses; and WHEREAS, publicly available information shows that APD has contacted ICE numerous times in recent years based on administrative immigration warrants, raising concerns about consistency, transparency, and impacts on community trust; and WHEREAS, residents across Austin and Texas have expressed significant concern about the actions of ICE on civil liberties, including through public demonstrations and walkouts; and WHEREAS, research has shown that increased partnership between local police and federal immigration enforcement is associated with reduced crime reporting, weakened police–community relationships, and negative public safety outcomes; and WHEREAS, local government has a responsibility to protect civil liberties, maintain public trust, and act in the best interests of the people it serves; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED That the Human …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE HIV PLANNING COUNCIL MONDAY FEBRUARY 2ND, 2026, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, RM. 1203 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the HIV PLANNING COUNCIL may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: Join the meeting now Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone or Teams. 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 to speak, call or email the Office of Support, (737)- 825-1684 or hivplanningcouncil@austintexas.gov. CURRENT HIV PLANNING COUNCIL MEMBERS: Kelle’ Martin, Chair Marquis Goodwin, Vice Chair Kristina McRae-Thompson Joe Anderson Jr. Alicia Alston Liza Bailey Aran Belani Henry Chan Jeremy Caballero Judith Hassan Drew Kyler AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up no later than noon on 1/30/2026 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 HIV Planning Council regular meeting on October 27th, 2025. CONFLICT OF INTEREST DECLARATIONS 2. Members will declare conflicts of interest with relevant agenda items, service categories, and/or service standards. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Introductions/Announcements 4. Office of Support Staff Briefing 5. Administrative Agent Staff Briefing 6. Part B Staff Briefing DISCUSSION ITEMS 7. Discussion of legislative responsibilities 8. Discussion of governing documents a. Bylaws b. Policy and Procedures c. Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) 9. Discussion of data binder request contents DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 10. Discussion and approval of HIV Planning Council officer nominations a. Chair b. Treasurer COMMITTEE UPDATES 11. Care Strategies and Engagement Committee 12. Finance and Assessment Committee FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 13. Discussion of workplan calendar and social calendar ADJOURNMENT Indicative of action items 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. TTY users’ route through Relay Texas at 711. For More Information on the HIV Planning Council, please contact Rashana Raggs at (737)-825-1684.
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE HIV PLANNING COUNCIL MONDAY FEBRUARY 2ND, 2026, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, RM. 1203 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the HIV PLANNING COUNCIL may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: Join the meeting now Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone or Teams. 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 to speak, call or email the Office of Support, (737)-825-1684 or hivplanningcouncil@austintexas.gov. CURRENT HIV PLANNING COUNCIL MEMBERS: Kelle’ Martin, Chair Marquis Goodwin, Vice Chair Kristina McRae-Thompson Joe Anderson Jr. Alicia Alston Liza Bailey Aran Belani Henry Chan Jeremy Caballero Judith Hassan Drew Kyler AGENDA ADDENDUM DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 11. Discussion and approval of Reallocations for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Contracts Indicative of action items 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. TTY users’ route through Relay Texas at 711. For More Information on the HIV Planning Council, please contact Rashana Raggs at (737)-825-1684.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN FIREFIGHTERS’, POLICE OFFICERS’ AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES PERSONNEL’S CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2026, AT 10:00 A.M. AUSTIN HUMAN RESOURCES’ LEARNING AND RESEARCH CENTER 5202 E BEN WHITE, SUITE 500 AUSTIN, TX 78741 Some members of the City of Austin Firefighters’, Police Officers’ and Emergency Medical Services Personnel’s Civil Service Commission may be participating by video conference. 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 Matthew Chustz, 512-974- 2859, Matthew.Chustz@austintexas.gov. The committee may go into a closed session under the Open Meetings Act, Section 551.071, of the Texas Government Code, to receive advice from legal counsel on any item on this agenda. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Jolsna Thomas, Chair Mitchell Kreindler 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 from the Firefighters’, Police Officers’, and Emergency Medical Services Personnel’s Civil Service Commission Special Called Meeting on December 5, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. Discussion and action regarding the request of one or more Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services candidates to the Commission to appoint a three-member board for another mental or physical examination, as applicable, pursuant to the Texas Local Government Code, Section 143.022(c), and City of Austin Fire Fighters’, Police Officers’ and Emergency Medical Services Personnel’s Civil Service Commission Rules and Regulations, Rule 5.05. Discussion and action regarding the appointment of a physician, psychiatrist, or psychologist to examine an Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services’ Clinical Specialist-Field, Robert Kaminowitz, and to submit a report to the commission, department head, and the Clinical Specialist-Field, pursuant to Texas Local Government Code, Section 143.081, and the City of Austin Fire Fighters’, Police Officers’ and Emergency Medical Personnel Civil Service Commission Rules and Regulations, Rule 15.04. Discussion and election of Vice Chair of the Firefighters’, Police Officers’, and Emergency Medical Services Personnel’s Civil Service Commission in compliance with City of Austin Fire Fighters’, …
CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Friday, December 5, 2025 FIREFIGHTERS’, POLICE OFFICERS’, AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES PERSONNEL’S CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION MINUTES SPECIAL CALLED MEETING FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2025 The City of Austin Firefighters’, Police Officers’, and Emergency Medical Services Personnel’s Civil Service Commission convened in a Special Called meeting on Friday, December 5, 2025, at 5202 E. Ben White Boulevard, Suite 500, in Austin, Texas. Chair Thomas called the City of Austin Firefighters’, Police Officers’, and Emergency Medical Services Personnel’s Civil Service Commission Meeting to order at 11:00 a.m. Civil Service Commissioners in Attendance: Jolsna Thomas, Chair; Farah Ahmed, Vice Chair; and Mitchell Kreindler, Commissioner PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None Present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes from the City of Austin Firefighters’, Police Officers’, and Emergency Medical Services Personnel’s Civil Service Commission Special Called Meeting on September 19, 2025. The minutes from the Firefighters’, Police Officers’, and Emergency Medical Services Personnel’s Civil Service Commission special called meeting on September 19, 2025, were approved on Vice Chair Ahmed’s motion, Commissioner Kreindler’s second on a 3-0 vote. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Hear and rule on appeal(s) from the Austin Fire Department Fire Specialist written promotional examination administered on November 5, 2025, pursuant to the Texas Local Government Code, Section 143.034, and the City of Austin Fire Fighters’, Police Officers’ and Emergency Medical Services Personnel’s Civil Service Commission Rules and Regulations, Rule 7. The motion to approve the appeal of exam question 64 and to accept all answers as correct, was approved on Vice Chair Ahmed’s motion, Commissioner Kreindler’s second on a 3-0. 3. Hear and rule on appeal(s) from the Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services Clinical Specialist-Communications written promotional examination administered on November 13, 1 CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Friday, December 5, 2025 4. 5. 2025, pursuant to the Texas Local Government Code, Section 143.034, and the City of Austin Fire Fighters’, Police Officers’ and Emergency Medical Services Personnel’s Civil Service Commission Rules and Regulations, Rule 7. The motion to approve the appeal of both exam questions 32 and 63 and to accept answers A & D as correct for both of the appealed exam questions, was approved on Commissioner Kreindler’s motion, Vice Chair Ahmed’s second on a 3-0. Hear and rule on appeal(s) from the Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services Clinical Specialist-Field written promotional examination administered on November 13, 2025, pursuant to the Texas Local Government Code, Section …
SPECIAL-CALLED MEETING OF THE DESIGN COMMISSION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2026, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1407 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Design Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Nicole Corona at 512- 974-3146 or nicole.corona@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Jon Salinas, Chair Josue Meiners, Vice Chair Ramachandra “Rao” Aradhyula David Carroll Nkiru Gelles Kevin Howard CALL TO ORDER AGENDA Saira Khan Conners Ladner Marissa McKinney Evgenia “Jenny” Murkes Brendan Wittstruck PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first five 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 Design Commission regular meeting on December 15, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the update to the Downtown Density Bonus Program. Presentation by Alan Pani, Austin Planning. Sponsors: Commissioners Howard, Murkes, and Wittstruck. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of the Design Commission’s strategy prioritizing urban design in Density Bonus Program projects in the City of Austin. Sponsors: Commissioners Howard and Wittstruck. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. 5. 6. Discussion and action to recommend to City Council two-way conversions downtown. Presented by Adam Greenfield, Safe Streets. Sponsors: Commissioners Carroll and Howard. Discussion and action to recommend to City Council whether the project W. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard & Nueces Street, located at 601, 607, 611, 619 West Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard, 1809 Rio Grande Street, 1806 Nueces Street, 1801 Rio Grande Street, 604 West 18th Street and 1800 Nueces Street, complies with the Urban Design Guidelines for the City of Austin in accordance with Land Development Code § 25-2-586 (C)(1)(a)(ii). Presented by Leah Bojo, Drenner Group, PC, Justin Short, STG Design, and Chris Jackson, Fable Landscape Architecture. Approve a recommendation to City Council to recognize the Design Commission as an official stakeholder in the Density Bonus Program update process and recommend that the Design Commission and Staff advance council-requested updates to …
DESIGN COMMISSION MINUTES REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2025 The Design Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, December 15, 2025, at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, located at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Salinas called the Design Commission meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Jon Salinas, Chair Ramachandra “Rao” Aradhyula David Carroll Nkiru Gelles Kevin Howard Evgenia “Jenny” Murkes Brendan Wittstruck Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Conners Ladner Marissa McKinney PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on October 27, 2025. The minutes from the Design Commission regular meeting on October 27, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Howard’s motion, Commissioner Aradhyula’s second, on a 7- 0 vote. Commissioners Gelles and Murkes were off the dais. Vice Chair Meiners and Commissioner Khan were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion of analysis on the Design Commission's recommendations and the final approved Downtown Density Bonus Program projects from the past ten years. 1 The item was discussed. 3. 4. Discussion of the draft Urban Design Guidelines regarding the sections: Introduction, Core Principle A: Protect Pedestrians and Bicyclists from the Elements, and Core Principle B: Protect Sidewalk and Bikeway Users from Motor Vehicles. The motion to postpone the item indefinitely was approved on Commissioner Howard’s motion, Chair Salinas’ second, on a 9-0 vote. Vice Chair Meiners and Commissioner Khan were absent. Discussion of the timeline and obstacles of the update to the Urban Design Guidelines. Sponsors: Chair Salinas, Vice Chair Meiners, and Commissioner Howard. The item was discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. 6. Discussion and action to select Downtown Density Bonus Program projects from the past ten years to analyze outcomes. Sponsors: Chair Salinas and Vice Chair Meiners. The motion to postpone the item indefinitely was approved on Commissioner Wittstruck’s motion, Chair Salinas’ second, on a 9-0 vote. Vice Chair Meiners and Commissioner Khan were absent. Discussion and action to select members for the Planning and Urban Design Working Group. Sponsors: Chair Salinas and Commissioner Howard. The motion to assign Commissioner Gelles to the Planning and Urban Design Working Group was approved on Chair Salinas’ motion, Commissioner Howard’s second, on a 9-0 vote. Vice Chair Meiners and Commissioner Khan were absent. COMMITTEE UPDATES 7. 8. Update from the representative of the Downtown Commission regarding the meeting on November 19, 2025. The update was given …
DDB Phase 1 – Program Format Austin Planning | Design Commission | 1/26/25 DDB Phase 1 Current Downtown Density Bonus Program Base Entitlements Sites have height and FAR limits set by their base zoning (e.g., CBD = 350ft of height & 8:1 FAR*) Participating in DDB Sites must meet gatekeeper requirements + community benefits in exchange for additional entitlements (i.e., height & FAR) Height & FAR Map Existing height & FAR map indicates additional height and FAR limits that can be achieved within each subdistrict Exceeding Height & FAR Map Sites can request Council approval to exceed allowed height and FAR limits *FAR limits do not apply to residential or mixed-use projects meeting SB840 standards 3 4 5 Proposed Amendment Approach Phase I: Create new zoning combining district(s) that include updated program requirements and regulations for Downtown Density Bonus Rezone Phase I geography into the new combining district through area-wide rezoning Phase II: Refine regulations, create additional combining districts as needed, and rezone the remainder of geography into the new combining districts Moving forward: Property owners would be able to request rezoning into higher intensity combining districts 6 Downtown Density Bonus Program – Phase 1 Create New Combining Districts (-DDB or similar) Every property within a combining district gets the same height in exchange for the same affordable housing (e.g., combining district 1 provides +100ft in exchange for 5% affordable units (or fee-in-lieu) while combining district 2 provides +400ft in exchange for 7% affordable units (or fee-in-lieu) ) Additional height is additive to the property’s base zoning height limit Define New Core Subdistrict in the Land Development Code Properties within subdistrict are eligible to rezone to the DDB Combining Districts Gatekeeper requirements or community benefits menu could be customized for each subdistrict Rezone properties within Core Subdistrict to new DDB Combining District Properties can add a fixed amount of height above their base height in exchange for participation in the DDB program If properties desire additional height, they can request rezoning into higher intensity combining districts 7 Program Heights Max. Height (?? ft) Height (?? ft) Base Height (350 ft) CBD by-right entitlements today Entitlements after DDB update and city-initiated rezoning Future max. entitlements to be requested via rezoning 8 Downtown Heights Current CBD Base Height …
Two-Way Street Conversions in Downtown Austin One Policy: Many Benefits 49% Fewer crashes 23% Less crime 39% Property value rise Two-Way Street Conversion: Evidence of Increased Livability in Louisville KY (Riggs & Gilderbloom (2015), Journal of Planning Education and Research 10-20% Increase in retail sales (Vancouver WA) "One-way streets should not be allowed in prime downtown retail areas. We've proven that." Rebecca Ocken, Executive Director, Vancouver WA Downtown Association “The design has facilitated a better response from police and fire.” “When we experience a problem, we are provided with more options to redirect traffic.” Wm. Todd Bailey, Police Chief, New Albany IN Less Congestion, Shorter Travel Times “Dozens of cities have reconfigured one-way streets into two-way streets as a means of bringing their downtowns to life.” Governing Magazine Two-Way Conversions: One Policy, Many Benefits ● Safer streets ● More walking and bicycling ● Healthier local businesses ● Faster emergency access ● Lower crime ● Higher property values ● Easier navigation and access Addressing Left-Turn Lanes & Transit Reliability ● Left-turn pockets ● Leading left-turn traffic signals ● All-way stops ● Prohibit left turns at certain intersections and/or at certain times Two-Way Conversions: Success Every Time in Austin 1992: First Street / E Cesar Chavez, Second Street (east of I-35) 2008: Cesar Chavez, Second Street 2015: Brazos Street 2017: 5th Street 2018: Colorado Street 2019: 16th, 17th, 18th Street “Sixth Street should be immediately converted to two-way traffic…" Regional/Urban Design Assistance Team (R/UDAT) of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), 1991 “Just do it.” “15 minutes after you make the change [to two-way], people will be asking why you didn’t do it 25 years earlier.” Minneapolis mayor R.T. Rybak (2010)
W. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Nueces Street | Austin, TX Downtown Density Bonus Program Application Package TABLE OF CONTENTS APPLICANT SUMMARY LETTER DOWNTOWN DENSITY BONUS APPLICATION VICINITY PLAN & NEARBY TRANSIT FACILITIES EXHIBIT NEARBY OPEN SPACE EXHIBIT SITE PLAN FLOOR PLANS EXTERIOR ELEVATION PLANS GREAT STREETS PLANS AND EXHIBIT CIRCULATION EXHIBIT DEVELOPMENT BONUS COMMUNITY BENEFITS CALCULATION DESIGN COMMISSION PROJECT REVIEW APPLICATION URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES MATRIX December 16, 2025 Via Electronic Delivery Ms. Lauren Middleton-Pratt Planning Department City of Austin 1000 E 11th Street Austin, TX 78702 Re: W. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard & Nueces Street – Downtown Density Bonus Program (“DDBP”) Application and Summary of Compliance with the City of Austin’s Urban Design Guidelines for a hotel and residential tower project located at 601, 607, 611, 619 W Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, 1809 Rio Grande St and 1806 Nueces St, 1801 Rio Grande Street, 604 W 18th Street and 1800 Nueces Street (the “Property”). Dear Ms. Middleton-Pratt: On behalf of the property owners, The 1806 Group LP, Jack Brown Family II Limited Partnership, Triple Play Properties LTD and Scott Sayers (“Owners”), please accept this letter and supporting documentation as a true and complete submittal application for the Downtown Density Bonus Program (“DDBP”) for the property located on the block bounded by W. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard to the north, Rio Grande Street to the west, Nueces Street to the east and W. 18th Street to the south in Austin, Texas. The project consists of a full-block development comprising a 37-story hotel/condominium building and a 34-story residential building, with the existing alley retained between the two structures. The northern building will include 287 hotel keys, 61 residential units and approximately 4,903 SF of pedestrian-oriented uses (retail/restaurant) at the ground floor. The southern building will have 318 residential units and approximately 6,515 SF of retail. The Property is located within the Northwest subdistrict of the Downtown Austin Plan (DAP) and is zoned General Commercial Services (“CS”), General Commercial Services – Mixed Use (“CS- MU”), (“GO”) and (“DMU-CO”). The Property is expected be entitled to a floor-to-area ratio (“FAR”) of 5:1 after rezoning to Downtown Mixed-Use – Conditional Overlay (DMU-CO), via zoning cases C14-2025-0090 and C14-2025-0093 that are currently in review. The eastern half of the Property is located within the DDBP and is eligible to participate in the program up to a maximum of 3:1 FAR. The …
context map • the surrounding 9 blocks • key neighborhoods/ districts • core transit corridors • public transportation STATION AT ~24TH STREET BUS STOP FUTURE LIGHT RAIL Overall Context Plan BUS STOP STATION AT 15TH STREET 0 45’ 90’ 180’ The information shown is based on the best information available and is subject to change without notice.MLK & Nueces01.21.2026 technical site plan • dimensional control for coa great streets • integration of planting ar- eas, vehicular drop-offs, etc. Overall Technical Plan COA Great Streets Compliance 0 10’ 20’ 40’ The information shown is based on the best information available and is subject to change without notice.MLK & Nueces01.21.2026
enlargement technical site plan (NORTH) • dimensional control for coa great streets • integration of planting areas, vehicular drop-offs, etc. Enlarged Technical Plan (North) 0 7.5’ 15’ 30’ The information shown is based on the best information available and is subject to change without notice.MLK & Nueces01.21.2026
enlargement technical site plan (south) • dimensional control for coa great streets • integration of planting areas, vehicular drop-offs, etc. Enlarged Technical Plan (South) 0 7.5’ 15’ 30’ The information shown is based on the best information available and is subject to change without notice.MLK & Nueces01.21.2026
illustrative level 1 site plan • interior uses fused with exterior uses Illustrative Overall Site Plan The information shown is based on the best information available and is subject to change without notice.MLK & Nueces01.21.2026w. 18th StreetNueces streetmartin luther king jr. blvd.rio grande street illustrative level 1 site plan - activated - any day • interior uses fused with exterior uses • exterior spaces activated • landscape lighting would include the following: - AE CObra-head streetlights - gfci outlets at trees for seasonal, festive lighting - southwest park would likely have small, integrat ed bollards in the \ landscape to illuminate - potential festoon / feature lighting in the alley Illustrative Overall Site Plan - Activated The information shown is based on the best information available and is subject to change without notice.MLK & Nueces01.21.2026w. 18th StreetNueces streetmartin luther king jr. blvd.rio grande streetpublic alleyrio grande streetNueces street illustrative level 1 site plan - activated - farmers market in alley • interior uses fused with exterior uses • exterior spaces activated • specialty programming, i.e. farmer’s market • landscape lighting would include the following: - AE CObra-head streetlights - gfci outlets at trees for seasonal, festive lighting - southwest park would likely have small, integrat ed bollards in the landscape to illuminate - potential festoon / feature lighting in the alley Illustrative Overall Site Plan - Activated The information shown is based on the best information available and is subject to change without notice.MLK & Nueces01.21.2026w. 18th StreetNueces streetmartin luther king jr. blvd.rio grande streetpublic alleyrio grande streetNueces street coa and daa history, interest, and focus on alley activation Downtown Austin - Alley Activation! 0 10’ 20’ 40’ The information shown is based on the best information available and is subject to change without notice.MLK & Nueces01.21.2026 conceptual rendering of alley activation - farmer’s market Conceptual Rendering - Activated Alley - Farmer’s Market The information shown is based on the best information available and is subject to change without notice.MLK & Nueces01.21.2026 MLK & Nueces thank you. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. BLVD. row centerline front of median curb drive lane 4 bike racks, (8 bikes) drive lane 2 benches trashcan streetlight row centerline front of median curb drive lane drive lane RIGHT OF WAY PROPERTY LINE trashcan streetlight 2 benches l planting zone patio zone planting zone a t n e m e p p u s l e n …
