Second Natural Gas Utility Policy Briefing Resource Management Commission Paul Robbins August 19, 2025 There Are Other Gas Utility Issues Besides High Rates 1. High Fuel Costs 2. Taxes & Fees 3. Low-Income Assistance 4. Greenwashing– Faulty Programs for Conservation & Renewable Natural Gas Three Reasons for High Fuel Prices 1. Rising Support Costs 2. Securitization 3. Gas Exports “Securitization” Winter Storm Uri Surcharge Legalized Piracy • $3.5 Billion Financed Over 16 Years • $1.11/MCF Surcharge • ≈ $38/Year/Residential Austin Customer • ≈ $608 Over 16-Year Payoff U.S. Liquefied Natural Gas Competes on World Market Taxes & Fees • ≈ 3% for State Fees • 5% for City of Austin Franchise Fee • No Cap on Amount Low-Income Assistance 2024 Austin Energy – $20.1 Million Austin Water – $17.4 Million Austin Watershed Protection – $1.2 Million Total City of Austin Utilities – $38.7 Million (1.5% of Gross Revenue) Texas Gas Service – $200,000 (For Entire Central-Gulf Region) Gas Companies are Greenwashing Clean Energy Efficiency of the Direct Use of Natural Gas From Atmos RMC June Presentation y c n e i c i f f E y g r e n E Direct Use of Natural Gas Source Energy Extraction, Processing, Transportation 100 MMBTUs Water Heater Efficiency Generation No Losses X 90 MMBTUs 90 MMBTUs 52 MMBTUs ERCOT Energy Electric Mix Source Energy Extraction, Processing, Transportation Generation Line Loss Water Heater Efficiency 100 MMBTUs 89 MMBTUs 54 MMBTUs 52 MMBTUs 48 MMBTUs ERCOT Electric Mix With Heat Pump Water Heater ERCOT Energy Electric Mix Source Energy Extraction, Processing, Transportation Generation Line Loss Heat Pump Water Heater 100 MMBTUs 89 MMBTUs 54 MMBTUs 52 MMBTUs 91 MMBTUs- 233 MMBTUs TGS gives rebates way in excess of the national average. Conservation Total Resource Benefit/Cost Test Total Lifetime Investment vs. Lifetime Monetary Savings = Gas Dryer With Moisture Sensor • Between $200 and $300 to save –– 50¢/Year (Gas-to-Gas change-out). • No other gas utilities give rebates for dryer stubs except One Gas. • Payback of 666 Years at Higher Rebate Level. Tankless Water Heaters • $4,150 to $5,050 for New Tankless Installation vs. $1,600- $1,850 for Tank Unit (2021 dollars). • Requires Regular Scale Cleaning • Claims of Increased Lifetime May Be Exaggerated • No Payback. In fact, it will cost $2,800 to $3,800 more over life. • Expensive • Scale Cleaning • Freeze Damage Efficient Furnaces Built for Northern Climates • …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. City of Austin, Permitting & Development Center, Room 1406 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory 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 (512) 974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Seonhye “Sonny” Sin, Chair Sarah Chen Zachary Dolling Hugh Li Pierre Nguyễn Alpha Shrestha Hanna Huang Kuo Yang Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Sarah Xiyi Chen Hailey Easley Ahmed Moledina Sabrina Sha Nayer Sikder Nirali Thakkar 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 Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on August 19, 2025. STAFF BRIEFING DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation regarding the Central Texas Food Bank’s outreach to Asian Americans, the impact of the cancellation of federal grants, and other areas affecting Asian Americans. Presentation by Beth Corbett, Vice President of Government Affairs, and Anurita Mittra, Vice President of Network Services, Central Texas Food Bank. 3. Discussion regarding which commission recommendations passed in the FY2025-26 budget. 4. Discussion exploring how commissioners could receive better and more expansive training. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Update from the City Manager’s Office Meeting Working Group regarding the fall meeting with the City Manager Office. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please contact Ryan Sperling, Office or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. the City Clerk 974-3568 (512) of at For more information on the …
Urban Forest Replenishment Fund S e p t e m b e r 2 0 2 5 Presentation Over view • Tree Ordinance • Urban Forest Replenishment Fund • Programs Tree Ordinance Origins Austin's first tree ordiance Invest tree mitigation 1983 Early 2000's Mid-late 2000's 2010 Collect tree mitigation Heritage tree ordinance Tree Ordinance in Practice Preserve trees on site Replant Mitigation fee *Find out more here: Environmental Criteria Manual section 3.5.4: Mitigation Urban Forest Replenishment Fund Payments to the UFRF may be used for: Off-site tree planting and maintenance Promoting tree care and preservation Urban forest conservation Enforcement of City tree protection and mitigation regulations Urban Forest Replenishment Fund • Special Revenue Fund • Managed by the Urban Forester • Budget approved by City Council annually • Fluctuating revenues • Supports multiple programs Programs • Urban Forest Grant • Urban Forest Funding Portal • Contracts Urban Forest Grant • Public facing grant program • Operated by the Urban Forest Program • Goal: The Urban Forest Grant strengthens Austin’s urban forest by funding stewardship activities like tree planting, tree care, education, and disease control projects. Urban Forest Funding Portal • Internal COA program • Operated by the Urban Forest Program • Goal: The UFFP makes funds available to City of Austin departments to support City of Austin projects, including tree planting, education, disease control, inventorying, and other related efforts. Contracts • NeighborWoods • Ready, Set, Plant! • Certified Arborist Prep Canopy Cover Heading 41% Canopy Cover 39K Acres of new canopy needed to meet 50% canopy cover goal. https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/d9ba0b99c60b4b8395414a09c4533949 Emily King Urban Forester emily.king@austintexas.gov Follow Nature in the City for events, updates, job postings, and more! facebook.com/NatureCityATX instagram.com/NatureCityATX
Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Minutes August 19, 2025 Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Regular Meeting Minutes Tuesday, August 19, 2025 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at the City of Austin, Permitting and Development Center, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Sin called the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE: Seonhye “Sonny” Sin, Chair Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Hanna Huang Alpha Shrestha Nayer Sikder Kuo Yang COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY: Sarah Chen Sarah Xiyi Chen Zachary Dolling Hailey Easley Hugh Li Nirali Thakkar PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on July 15, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of July 15, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Huang’s motion, Vice Chair Jambulapati’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Xiyi 1 Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Minutes August 19, 2025 Chen, Sikder and Yang were off the dais. Commissioners Moledina, Nguyễn, and Sha were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. Staff briefing from Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director, Office of Equity and Inclusion and Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Office of Equity and Inclusion regarding the current priorities of the Office of Equity and Inclusion as they relate to Asian Americans in Austin. Briefing provided by Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director, Office of Equity and Inclusion and Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Office of Equity and Inclusion. Staff briefing from Rick Ramirez, Deputy Officer, Intergovernmental Relations Office regarding newly signed laws from the 89th Texas Legislative session that impact Asian Americans Austinites. Briefing provided by Rick Ramirez, Deputy Officer, Intergovernmental Relations Office. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. 5. Discussion about Austin Police Department’s crimes Against Asian Austinites data. Discussed. Discussion regarding a potential Recommendation to Council to revamp the Community Liaison Office. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. Approve the dissolution of the Asian American Resource Center Working Group. The motion to approve the dissolution of the Asian American Resource Center Working Group was approved on Commissioner Huang’s motion, Commissioner Shrestha’s second on a 12-0 vote. Commissioners Moledina, Nguyễn, and Sha were absent. Approve the creation of an Asian American Resource Center Working Group focused on providing input and recommendations on the programming and projects at the Asian American …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING of the URBAN RENEWAL BOARD September 15, 2025, REGULAR MEETING 6:00 pm STREET JONES BUILDING, ROOM 400A 1000 EAST 11TH ST, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78702 Some members of the Urban Renewal Board may be participating by videoconference and a quorum will be present at the location identified above. 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 Hunter Maples, (512) 974-3120 or hunter.maples@austintexas.gov. The Urban Renewal Board reserves the right to go into closed session to discuss any of the items on this agenda as permitted by the Texas Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Manuel Escobar, Chair Darrell W, Pierce, Vice Chair Amit Motwani Byron Davis Jacqueline Watson Kobla Tetey Tam Hawkins AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers who registered to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting, if speaking virtually, or who signed up prior to the meeting being called to order if speaking in person, 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 Urban Renewal Board’s (URB’s) regular-called meeting on August 18, 2025 1 of 3 DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion related to updates on future development of Blocks 16 & 18 from Pleasant Hill Collaborative and Rally Austin, including project status and anticipated timeline (Pleasant Hill Collaborative) DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. Discussion and approval of a recommendation to City Council proposed by the URB regarding the requested Urban Renewal Plan amendment for 1201 E 11th St. Discussion and approval of an amendment extending the license agreement between the Urban Renewal Agency and DiverseArts Discussion and approval of an amendment extending the license agreement between the Urban Renewal Agency and Capitol View Arts Discussion and authorization of Chair Escobar to amend Exclusive Negotiation Agreement language to move necessary items to Phase A-2, as needed 7. Discussion and approval of new member to stakeholder working group, as recommended EXECUTIVE SESSION 8. 9. Discuss legal matters related to …
REGULAR MEETING of the LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION September 15, 2025, at 6:30 P.M. Austin City Hall, Boards & Commissions Room 1101 301 W 2nd St., Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the 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, contact Ryan Sperling, Office of the City Clerk, at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Commissioner Appointment Kitty McLeod, Vice Chair (she/they) District 1 Commissioner Mariana Krueger (she/her) KC Coyne, Chair (they/them) Steven Rivas (he/him) Brigitte Bandit (they/she) Jerry Joe Benson (he/him) Asher Knutson (he/him) J. Scott Neal (he/him) Garry Brown District 2 District 3 District 4 District 5 District 6 District 7 District 8 Appointment District 9 District 10 VACANT Rocío Fierro-Pérez (she/her/ella) Mayor Alexander Andersen (he/him) Morgan Davis (he/him) Taylor Treviño (she/her) VACANT Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission's regular meeting of August 18, 2025. Page 1 of 4 DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion regarding the City’s Fertility Assistance Program and In vitro fertilization benefit gaps. Presentation by Selena Xie. 3. Update on LGBTQIA+-related bills in the special session of the Texas state legislature. Presentation by Miriam Laeky, Government Affairs Director, Equality Texas. 4. Discussion regarding the state of transgender rights in Texas and how the commission can respond in Austin. 5. Discussion regarding a potential survey to engage the community about areas of concern regarding the pillars included in the commission’s 2024-2025 annual report. 6. Discussion regarding the results of Austin Pride 2025. 7. Discussion on the formulation of budget recommendations for the FY2026-27 budget. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 8. Approve the formation of a working group to formulate budget recommendations for the City of Austin FY2026- 27 Budget. 9. Approve changes to commission working group membership. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 10. Update from the Community Safety Working …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION OPERATIONS COMMITTEE Monday, September 15, 2025 – 11 a.m. Permitting and Development Center Conference Room 1203 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the committee 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 NOT on the agenda 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, use the QR code or the link on this agenda. For questions, email preservation@austintexas.gov or call Sofia Wagner at (512) 974-3393. COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Jeffrey Acton Trey McWhorter Judah Rice CALL TO ORDER AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten (10) speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Operations Committee purview, as outlined in Historic Landmark Commission bylaws Equity-Based Preservation Plan progress dashboard and implementation plan Feedback on list of potential educational and outreach materials Possible changes to historic preservation sections of the Land Development Code Proposed near-term items for Committee review and input ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call the Historic Preservation Office at 512-974-3393 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Operations Committee, please contact Cara Bertron at 512-974-1446. ,£, First Floor City of Austin Permitting and Development Center () OD Coffee Shop South Elevator;; ' lNo,-k:,t;;.tio,os 110-8.01 · 1108.16 Courtyard Employee Entrance Dr.;wing not toswle, repr...sentatioo purposes only. . Event Center Trahng Parking Garage l Elevators Restrnoms Employee Break Room 6.25.20 REGISTER TO SPEAK https://forms.office.com/g/7ReQu6LfJD\ Historic Landmark Commission Architectural Review Committee 2025 Meeting Schedule Wednesday, January 15th, 2025 at 4:00PM Wednesday, February 12th, 2025 at 4:00PM Wednesday, March 12th, 2025 at 4:00PM Wednesday, April 9th, 2025 at 4:00PM Wednesday, May 14th, 2025 at 4:00PM Wednesday, June 11th, 2025 at …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING of the AUSTIN-TRAVIS COUNTY FOOD POLICY BOARD MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2025, 5:00 PM CITY OF AUSTIN PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1406 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Amanda Rohlich, 512-974-1364, Amanda.Rohlich@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Andrea Abel Lisa Barden, Vice-Chair Marissa Bell Joi Chevalier, Chair Beth Corbett Nitza Cuevas CALL TO ORDER Board member roll call. Hilda Gutierrez Kacey Hanson Erin McDonald Natalie Poulos Matt Simon Andrew Smith AGENDA 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 Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board Regular Meeting from Monday, August 11, 2025. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Briefing on Austin-Travis County Food Plan Implementation, Edwin Marty, Food Policy Manager at City of Austin and Yaira Robinson, Assistant Director of Environmental Programs at Travis County DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discuss Board Member Advocacy Efforts 4. 5. Strategic Planning Discussion Review Board Member Assignment FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Discussion and scheduling of future agenda items. ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Amanda Rohlich at Office of Climate Action & Resilience, at 512-974-1364, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board, please contact Amanda Rohlich at Office of Climate Action & Resilience, at 512-974-1364.
Project Summary/Staff Report August 1, 2025 Address: 1201 East 11th Street (Nice-N-Clean Car Wash) Applicant/Agent: City of Austin (Hunter Maples) Owner: Cooee Yakka LLC DBA 1201 E. 11th Series (Paul Staples) Type of Amendment: East 11th NCCD Modification (Thirteenth Modification) Add “cocktail lounge” use as a conditional use of 1201 East 11th Street. Current Permitted Uses: Detailed in Part 7, Section B, subsection 3 of Ordinance No. 20220728-163 Existing Zoning: CS-1-NCCD-NP and SF-3-NCCD-NP Proposed Rezoning: CS-1-NCCD-NP and SF-3-NCCD-NP (change in a condition of zoning to conditionally allow cocktail lounge use) Lot Size: approximately 0.2028 Acres (approximately 8,832 square feet) Urban Renewal Plan Adoption Date: January 25, 1999 Urban Renewal Agency of the City of Austin (URA) Recommendation: Scheduled to discuss the case on August 18, 2025, and take action on the case on September 15, 2025 Planning Commission Recommendation: Scheduled to take up the case on September 23, 2025 Staff Recommendation: Staff does not recommend granting cocktail lounge as a conditional use at 1201 East 11th Street. Basis for Staf f Recommendation: The Austin City Council adopted Ordinance No. 20220728-163 on July 28, 2022, which modified subdistrict use and development regulations for the East 11th Street Neighborhood Conservation Combining District (NCCD). Staff does not recommend reversing Council's decision from less than 3 years ago. Staff Contact: Hunter Maples Phone: 512-974-3120 Email: Hunter.Maples@austintexas.gov
LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, August 18, 2025 The LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, August 18, 2025, at 6:30 PM at Austin City Hall, 301 W 2nd St., Austin, Texas 78701, Boards & Commissions Room 1101. Commissioners in attendance in person: KC Coyne (Chair) Kitty McLeod (Vice Chair) Brigitte Bandit Jerry Joe Benson Garry Brown Morgan Davis Rocío Fierro-Pérez Asher Knutson Mariana Krueger J. Scott Neal Steven Rivas Taylor Treviño Chair Coyne called the meeting to order at 6:32 PM. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission's regular meeting of July 21, 2025. The July 21, 2025 minutes were approved on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Commissioner Brown’s second on a 12-0 vote. Commissioner Andersen was absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation regarding progress on the LGBTQ Community Center Feasibility Study Project in Atlanta and discussion of insights for the City of Austin’s LGBTQ+ Cultural Center Feasibility Study project. Presentation by Malik Brown, LGBTQ Community Center Feasibility Study Project Director, City of Atlanta and Fulton County Recreation Authority (AFCRA). Presentation by Malik Brown, LGBTQ Community Center Feasibility Study Project Director, City of Atlanta and Fulton County Recreation Authority (AFCRA). 3. Update on LGBTQIA+-related bills in the special session of the Texas state legislature. Presentation by Miriam Laeky, Government Affairs Director, Equality Texas. Page 1 of 4 Item 7 was taken up after Item 6 without objection. Update by Commissioner Fierro-Pérez. 4. Discussion regarding programming and opportunities to get involved with the City of Austin Welcome Week, including avenues for collaboration with the Commission on Immigrant Affairs. Discussion was held. 5. Discussion regarding Austin Police Department responses to commissioner questions at the April 2025 commission meeting. Discussion was held. 6. Discussion regarding outcomes of the 4th World LGBTQI+ Conference for Criminal Justice Professionals. Discussion was held. 7. Update regarding the City of Austin’s FY2025-26 budget as related to commission recommendations. Item 7 was taken up after Item 4 without objection. Discussion was held. 8. Update on the progress of the City of Austin’s LGBTQ Cultural Center Task Force, including the results of the task force’s first meeting. Update by Chair Coyne. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 9. Update from the Community Safety Working Group regarding its scope and priorities, including community safety beyond policing; Austin Police Department liaison engagement; Emergency Medical …
DRAFT MINUTES REGULAR CALLED MEETING of the URBAN RENEWAL BOARD August 18, 2025, REGULAR MEETING 6:00 pm STREET JONES BUILDING, ROOM 400A 1000 EAST 11TH ST, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78702 CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Manuel Escobar, Chair Darrell W, Pierce, Vice Chair Amit Motwani Byron Davis Jacqueline Watson Kobla Tetey Tam Hawkins Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Manuel Escobar, Commissioners Byron Davis, Kobla Tetey, and Jacqueline Watson, and Vice Chair Darrell W. Pierce. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: No Commissioners attended remotely. Board Members Absent/off the dais at call to order: Commissioners Tam Hawkins and Amit Motwani were absent. CALL TO ORDER Chair Escobar, called the meeting to order at 6:18 p.m. with five members present. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers who registered to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting, if speaking virtually, or who signed up prior to the meeting being called to order if speaking in person, will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1 of 3 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Urban Renewal Board’s (URB’s) regular-called meeting on July 7, 2025 On Commissioner Watson’s motion, seconded by Commissioner Davis, the minutes from July 7, 2025, were approved with a vote of 5-0-0. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. 5. Update and discussion related to technology concerns and location for future meetings (Hunter Maples, Housing Department) Update and discussion related to URB Recommendation 20250331-001: FY26 Budget Recommendation (Mandy DeMayo, Interim Director, Housing Department) Updates and discussion regarding the requested Urban Renewal Plan amendment for 1201 E 11th St. (Jonathan Tomko, Planning Department) Discussion related to updates on future development of Blocks 16 & 18 from Pleasant Hill Collaborative and Rally Austin, including project status and anticipated timeline (Sean Garretson, Pleasant Hill Collaborative) DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Discuss and authorize Chair Escobar to draft, approve, and publish an Annual Report On Commissioner Watson’s motion, seconded by Commissioner Tetey, the appointments were ratified with a vote of 5-0-0. EXECUTIVE SESSION Chair Escobar recessed the regular meeting and called the Executive Session to order at 7:27 p.m. 7. Discuss legal matters related to the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of an interest in Blocks 16 and 18 located on East 11th Street in Austin (Private consultation with legal counsel - Section 551.071 of the Texas Government Code) 2 of 3 8. Discuss …
URBAN RENEWAL BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20211115-3a Date: November 15, 2021 Subject: Land Use Regulations in the proposed Urban Renewal Plan and Neighborhood Conservation Combining Districts Seconded By: Watson Motioned By: Escobar Recommendation See attached letter. Vote For: Escobar, Pierce, Skidmore, Motwani, Watson Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Tetey, Bradford Attest: Laura Keating 1 of 1 To: Mayor & City Council of Austin From: Urban Renewal Board Date: November 15, 2021 Subject: Land Use Regulations in the proposed Urban Renewal Plan and Neighborhood Conservation Combining Districts The Urban Renewal Board (URB) engaged in a multiyear effort to update the Urban Renewal Plan (URP) and the East 11th and 12th Street Neighborhood Conservation Combining Districts (NCCDs). The Board’s recommendations were formed with the assistance of consultants, city staff, and community input. The URB refined the list of neighborhood-oriented and pedestrian-friendly land uses in the URP and NCCDs to support active streets that serve the community. In response to concerns from stakeholders about the reduction of uses allowed for some properties: • The Board supports proposed regulations which continue to allow uses that are permitted or conditional under current regulations if they support the goals of the URP. The URB intended outcome through the “save and except” provision in the proposed URP and NCCDs was for the uses listed by address, including existing single-family houses, to remain legal and not to be subject to non-conforming regulations. In response to legal concerns about this section, City legal is recommending the creation of a new permitted use, “conforming”, that will be defined as a use that conformed to the regulations in effect at the time the use was established and existed on the date of adoption of the proposed ordinance. • The Board supports the most appropriate mechanism to reduce the impact of non-conforming regulations on existing legal uses outlined in the “save and except” provision. This may include but is not limited to, inclusion of the “conforming” land use or other adjustments to the land use charts. The URB does not see significant value in its holding additional meetings to specifically discuss proposed land use regulations and will defer to Council to identify the best practice strategies regarding the aforementioned changes. Further, the URB encourages Council to prioritize taking immediate action on changes recommended to the NCCD and URP documents. Additional delays will have a direct impact on the URB’s ability to move forward with …
URBAN RENEWAL BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20210816-2a Date: August 16, 2021 Subject: Response to Planning Commission Action Motioned By: Motwani Recommendation Seconded By: Tetey Response to Planning Commission’s recommendations on the proposed modifications to the East 11th and 12th Street Urban Renewal Plan and Neighborhood Conservation Combining Districts. Description of Recommendation to Council See attached Vote For: Escobar, Pierce, Motwani, Tetey, Watson, Bradford Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Skidmore Attest: Laura Keating 1 of 1 To: City Council of Austin From: Urban Renewal Board Date: August 16, 2021 Subject: Response to Planning Commission’s action on the Urban Renewal Plan and Neighborhood Conservation Combining Districts The Urban Renewal Board (URB) engaged in a multiyear effort to update the Urban Renewal Plan (URP) and the East 11th and 12th Street Neighborhood Conservation Combining Districts (NCCDs). The goal of this effort was to update the zoning regulations to support the URP and to provide consistency and clarity regarding entitlements. The Board’s recommendations were formed with the assistance of consultants, staff, and community input. The following response to the Planning Commission’s (PC) amendments to the URP and NCCDs is to provide more background on the URB’s recommendations. • The URB does not support the amended vision statement proposed by PC. The URB crafted and recommended the following vision statement for the URP: Champion sustainable revitalization reflecting diversity, achieving equity, and preserving East Austin’s cultural history. While the URB agrees with PC that development should be community informed, compatible, and mixed use and previously considered the inclusion of this language in the vision statement, the URB does not believe this language should be in the vision statement. These elements either are currently addressed directly in the URP and NCCDs or will be included in the strategic plan to be developed by the URB that will drive its future efforts. • The URB does not support FAR limits for Subdistrict 1, 2, and 3 in the East 11th Street NCCD. On 11th Street, Council Resolution 20200423-039 directed modifications to the NCCD to both put in place the zoning to support the URP to maximize the value of the Urban Renewal Agency’s properties while continuing to promote the vision set by the community and succinctly and clearly communicate property owners’ entitlements. The URB considered and accepted the recommendation from staff and consultants that site development standards such as height, setbacks and impervious cover will effectively control the size of …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Friday, September 12, 2025, 5:30pm Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room #1101 301 West 2nd Street Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities 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 Nekaybaw Watson, 512-974-2562, nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Conor Kelly, Chair Elisabeth Meyer, Vice Chair Gabriel Arellano Lisa Chang DeLawnia Comer-HaGans Audrea Diaz Mickey Fetonte Jonathan Franks Lynn Murphy Elizabeth Slade Kristen Vassallo 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 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting on August 8, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the therapeutic recreation programs being planned and implemented by Evan Kessler, Recreation Program Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation and Rachel Hyde, Recreation Program Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation regarding therapeutic recreation programs their budget needs for more accessible therapeutic recreation programs. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. Presentation by Ann Graham, Liaison, Friends of Elisabet Ney regarding renovation plans for the Elisabet Ney Museum and their plans to make the space more accessible to patrons. Update regarding the most recent meeting of the Austin Transit Partnership Community Advisory Committee. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Update from the October 2025 AWEbility Festival Working Group on community outreach and marketing efforts. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. Formation of a working group regarding the expansion of therapeutic recreation program access and the creation of budget recommendations for therapeutic recreation programs within the Austin Parks and Recreation Department. Formation of a Budget Working Group to discuss and create recommendations about the committee’s budget priorities. Approve an update to the membership of the AWEbility Festival Working Group. Approve a Recommendation to Council to allocate funds to cover AWEbility Festival …
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes August 8, 2025 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Friday, August 8, 2025 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular meeting on Friday, August 8, 2025, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St. Room 1101, Austin, Texas. Chair Kelly called the Mayor’s Committee on People with Disabilities Meeting to order at 5:40 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Conor Kelly, Chair Gabriel Arellano Kristen Vassallo Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Elisabeth Meyer, Vice Chair Lisa Chang Elizabeth Slade PROCLAMATION Proclamation – 35th American Disability Act Anniversary – Presented by Mayor Kirk Watson PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular meeting minutes on July 11, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes from the meeting of July 11, 2025, failed on Chair Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Chang’s second on an 5-0 vote. Vice Chair Meyer abstained. Commissioners Comer-HaGans, Diaz, Fetonte, Franks and Murphy were absent. 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes August 8, 2025 DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. Presentation from Jetal Bhakta, Pedestrian Crossing Program Manager, Transportation and Public Works and Sheida Carugati, Transportation Planning Engineer, DKS Associates regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plans for Pedestrian Crossings Program and Urban Trails Program. Presentation regarding the ADA Transition Plans for Pedestrian Crossings Program and Urban Trails Program was given by Jetal Bhakta, Pedestrian Crossing Program Manager, Transportation and Public Works and Sheida Carugati, Transportation Planning Engineer, DKS Associates. Update from the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) representative on the work of the committee from the July 2025 meeting. Update provided by Commissioner Chang. Update regarding the most recent meeting of the Austin Transit Partnership Community Advisory Committee. Postponed to the next regular meeting with no objection. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Update from the October 2025 Disability Event Working Group on their most recent meetings and accomplishments. Update provided by Commissioner Arellano. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. 8. Formation of a working group regarding the expansion of therapeutic recreation program access and the creation of budget recommendations for therapeutic recreation programs within the Austin Parks and Recreation Department. Discussed and the working group formation was postponed until the next meeting. Formation of a Budget Working Group to discuss and create recommendations about the committee’s budget priorities. The motion to approve the formation of a Budget …
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250912-XX4 Date: September 12, 2025 Subject: Marketing Strategy and Distribution of Flyers Motioned By: Gabriel Arellano Seconded By: _____________ Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends developing a marketing strategy, including flyer distribution and social media outreach, with necessary approvals from the City of Austin. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Create and distribute event flyers. ● Develop social media posts to promote the awards event. ● Obtain approval from the City of Austin prior to posting on official channels. Rationale: A coordinated marketing strategy increases visibility, boosts community participation, and ensures compliance with City communication policies. Vote For: ___ Against: ___ Abstain: ___ Absent: ___ Attest: ___________________________
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250912-XX1 Date: September 12, 2025 Subject: Recognition of Three Awardees at Upcoming Event Motioned By: Gabriel Arellano Seconded By: _____________ Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends recognizing three awardees at the upcoming event. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Community Award: ADAPT of Texas ● Government Award: Travis County Services for the Deaf ● Individual Award: Hayley Broadway Rationale: Recognition of outstanding contributions strengthens community engagement, highlights leadership in accessibility, and aligns with the City’s equity and inclusion priorities. Vote For: ___ Against: ___ Abstain: ___ Absent: ___ Attest: ___________________________
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250912-XX3 Date: September 12, 2025 Subject: Request for Official EIN Verification Letter from Financial Services Motioned By: Gabriel Arellano Seconded By: _____________ Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends requesting an official letter from the City’s Financial Services Team verifying the City of Austin’s EIN, to support sponsorship applications. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Direct Financial Services Team to issue an EIN verification letter for sponsorship purposes. Rationale: A verified EIN letter is required to complete sponsorship applications and secure financial support for Committee programming and events. Vote For: ___ Against: ___ Abstain: ___ Absent: ___ Attest: ___________________________
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250912-XX2 Date: September 12, 2025 Subject: Approval of Budget for Awards Event Motioned By: Gabriel Arellano Seconded By: _____________ Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends allocating funds to cover event costs. Description of Recommendation to Council ● 3 Trophies – $200 ● Catering Service – $1,014 ● TOTAL – $1,215 Rationale: Budget allocation ensures the success of the awards event by funding essential items, recognizing honorees, and providing accessibility to attendees. Vote For: ___ Against: ___ Abstain: ___ Absent: ___ Attest: ___________________________
REGULAR MEETING of the COLLEGE STUDENT COMMISSION September 12, 2025, AT 3:00 PM AUSTIN CITY HALL, Board and Commission Room 1101 301 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701 Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register please contact Dr. Chiquita Eugene by email at chiquita.eugene@austintexas.gov or by phone at 512- 972-5003. Some members of the commission may be participating by videoconference. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Elisha Mac Gregor, Austin Community College Andrew Lyon, Austin Community College Aidyn Ogle, Concordia University Lorian Lopez, Concordia University Carson Domey, University of Texas at Austin Aidan Cournoyer, University of Texas at Austin Caleb Brizuela, Huston-Tillotson University Dominic Polidor, Huston-Tillotson University Caroline Schilling, St. Edward’s University 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 College Student Commission Regular Meeting from April 25, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 1. 2. Introduction of new commissioners. Update on the status of recommendations 20250425-005 and 20250425-006. 3. 4. Discussion of current working groups and assignment of new commissioners to working groups. Discussion of the creation of a housing working group. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. 6. Update from TRANSPORTATION working group on their priorities. Update from MENTAL HEALTH working group on their priorities. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Dr. Chiquita Eugene at the Youth Initiatives Office, at (512-972-5003), for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the College Student Commission, please contact Dr. Chiquita Eugene at (512-972-5003).
