Butler Trail Code Amendment Leslie Lilly Environmental Conservation Program Manager N I T S U A F O Y T I C W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T N I T S U A F O Y T I C 2 Background • Construction of Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail began in 1971 • Code compliant at time of construction • 2017 WPO code amendment restrictions on 50 ft setback • Current use today averages ~ 5 million visits annually W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T N I T S U A F O Y T I C 3 Background Amendment initiated by City Council on May 18th, 2023 W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T N I T S U A F O Y T I C 4 The Trail Conservancy • Urban Forestry and Natural Areas Management Guidelines • Safety and Mobility Study • Parkland Operations And Maintenance Agreement W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T Site Conditions 5 N I T S U A F O Y T I C W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T N I T S U A F O Y T I C 6 Proposed Amendment • • • 25-8-261 (B)(3)(c) to allow the Butler Trail to exceed 12 feet width (no administrative variance) 25-8-261 (B)(3)(f-g) to allow the Butler Trail to be located within 50 feet of the shoreline of Lady Bird Lake with a baseline of 1:1 restoration, and up to 2:1 restoration where feasible, for impacts associated with reconstruction and capital improvements or alternative compliance as approved by the Director of Watershed. Current code only allows this with an administrative variance. 25-8-261 (C)(2) to remove the requirement for additional restoration for shoreline disturbance …
…. § 25-8-261 - CRITICAL WATER QUALITY ZONE DEVELOPMENT. In all watersheds, development is prohibited in a critical water quality zone except as provided in this Division. Development allowed in the critical water quality zone under this Division shall be revegetated and restored within the limits of construction as prescribed by the Environmental Criteria Manual. (B) Open space is permitted in a critical water quality zone if a program of fertilizer, pesticide, and herbicide use is approved by the Watershed Protection Department, subject to the conditions in this Subsection. (3) A hard surfaced trail may cross the critical water quality zone pursuant to Section 25-8- 262 (Critical Water Quality Zone Mobility Crossings). A hard surfaced trail that does not cross the critical water quality zone may be located within the critical water quality zone only if: (a) designed in accordance with the Environmental Criteria Manual; (b) located outside the erosion hazard zone unless protective works are provided as prescribed in the Drainage Criteria Manual; (c) limited to 12 feet in width plus one-foot compacted sub-grade shoulders, unless a wider trail is designated in a Council-adopted plan or the trail is a part of the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail system; (d) located not less than 25 feet from the centerline of a waterway if within an urban watershed; (e) located not less than 50 feet from the centerline of a minor waterway, 100 feet from the centerline of an intermediate waterway, and 150 feet from the centerline of a major waterway if within a watershed other than an urban watershed; (f) located not less than 50 feet from the shoreline of Lake Travis, Lake Austin, Lady Bird Lake unless necessary for the construction of the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail system as allowed in (g) below, and Lake Walter E. Long, as defined in Section 25-8-92; and (g) located not less than 50 feet from the shoreline of Lady Bird Lake as defined in Section 25-8-92, unless restoration is provided at a minimum ratio of 1:1 with the option that the applicant and the Director collaborate to reach up to 2:1, as determined by a functional assessment of floodplain health; or (g) (h) located not less than 100 feet from the ordinary high water mark of the Colorado River downstream from Longhorn Dam. (C) The requirements of this subsection apply along Lake Travis, Lake …
EAST BRAKER LANE EXTENSION Transportation and Public Works Department Parks and Recreation Board Meeting February 26th, 2024 Parks Easement Parks Easement Introduction ■ The City has acquired ROW through development applications to extend E. Braker Lane from Decker Lane to Blue Bluff Road. ■ Braker Lane is an ASMP Level 3 roadway. ■ ROW for segment has already been dedicated (Doc. 2022015081). ■ Parkland easement is opened to full use along Lone Star gas line (Doc. 2020194382) ■ Transportation and Public Works Department (TPW) is requesting a permanent change of use of parkland easement for ROW, utility, and drainage construction through the Ch. 26 process. ■ The roadway will have raised protected bicycle lanes, sidewalks, tree and furniture zones, and landscaped medians and buffers. ■ Memo of understanding with PARD, WPD includes: – commitment to connect Critical Environmental Features (CEFs) via culverts – Addition of rain gardens and green infrastructure in the tree/furniture zone – new plantings outside of the ROW per City standard detail 609-S) – grade-separated and/or protected crossings across the new road at the Austin to Manor Urban Trail Parkland Mitigation Summary ■ Permanent Use (Roadway): ■ Chapter 26 Processing Fee: ■ Total Payment Amount: 7,818 sq. ft. $4,000 $4000 ■ The Transportation and Public Works Department will pay the processing fee. ■ Mitigation is to restore pedestrian/bicycle connectivity. Request and Timeline: ■ The Transportation and Public Works Department requests a recommendation to City Council to approve 7,818 square feet for an ASMP required roadway connection through a parkland easement. ■ TPW agrees to provide safe pedestrian/bicycle connectivity through a crossing of Braker Lane to be located as close to the exclusive parkland easement as possible. ■ The Braker extension will be built out over time in its entirety, however, this Ch. 26 request is limited to a section of dedicated ROW and currently has a site plan for roadway construction under review. ■ Points of Contact: Bryan Golden, Transportation and Public Works; Gregory Montes, Parks and Recreation.
M E M O R A N D U M O F U N D E R S T A N D I N G M.O.U. # 24-002 2/15/2024 Chapter 26 Administrative Fee = $4,000 Richard Mendoza, P.E. Director, Transportation and Public Works Department Kimberly McNeeley, M.Ed., CPRP Director, Parks and Recreation Department TO: FROM: SUBJECT: East Braker Lane Extension DATE: Transportation and Public Works Department (TPW) is requesting a Chapter 26 application for the change of use of an existing 7,818 sq. ft exclusive Park Recreational Easement to allow for the construction of the East Braker Lane Extension in accordance with the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan as depicted on Attachment A (Location Map). As part of the mitigation and to restore connectivity, the TPW shall designate safe bicycle and pedestrian crossing across E. Braker Lane to connect the adjacent neighborhoods to Walter E. Long Metropolitan Park. This connection shall be reflected in the Urban Trails GIS layer for reference, within a month upon approval of this Chapter 26 case by City Council. TPW is subject to the Chapter 26 Administrative Fee below. Transportation and Public Works Point of Contact: Bryan Golden Parks and Recreation Point of Contact: Gregory Montes Phone Number: 512-974-9458 Parks & Recreation Board: Council Approval: ___________________________________________________________ Kimberly McNeeley, M.Ed., CPRP Director, Parks and Recreation Department CONCURRENCE ____________________________________________________________ Richard Mendoza, P.E. Director, Transportation and Public Works Department Phone Number: 512-974-9183 Date Date Attachments A: (Location Map) 1 of 2
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION YYYYMMDD-XXX Date: Subject: Renaming the Barton Springs Bathhouse to the “Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse at Barton Springs Pool” Seconded By: Motioned By: Recommendation The Parks and Recreation Board Recommends that the Austin City Council rename the Barton Springs Bathhouse to the “Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse at Barton Springs Pool” Rationale: Whereas Joan Means Khabele was born in Austin, Texas, during a time when the City of Austin segregated the city’s neighborhoods and public amenities through the systematic enactment of racist policies; Whereas Parks were segregated by race during this era, and Black Austinites were not permitted to swim at Barton Springs; Whereas in 1956, Ms. Khabele was one of the first Black students to enroll at all-white Austin High School and when Ms. Khabele and other Black students were denied the opportunity to swim at Barton Springs during the Austin High School annual senior picnic, she protested by jumping in the pool despite policies forbidding Black people to swim in a pool designated for only white people; Whereas Ms. Khabele, along with other activists, bravely defied the segregationist policies of the time during these “swim ins,” which eventually led to the integration of Barton Springs pool and other recreational facilities in the city; Whereas community survey results show significant support for renaming the facility the “Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse” with 86% of respondents endorsing the renaming; Whereas a review of the 204 comments on the survey indicates overwhelming support of the proposal to rename the bathhouse after Joan Means Khabele. Comments primarily touch on the positive qualities of Ms. Khabele and the ways she influenced people’s lives; Whereas the Bathhouse Working Group of the Parks and Recreation Board suggested “Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse” as one of the options for the bathhouse; Whereas the American Historical Association states, “History comprises both facts and interpretations of those facts…to change the name of a school or street, is not to erase history, but rather to alter or call attention to a previous interpretation of history. A monument is not history itself; a monument 1 of 2 commemorates an aspect of history, representing a moment in the past when a public or private decision defined who would be honored in a community’s public spaces.” NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Board: 1. Recommends that the Austin City Council rename the Barton Springs …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION YYYYMMDD-XXX Seconded By: Establish Austin as a Recognized Soccer City Date: Subject: Motioned By: Recommendation The Parks and Recreation Board Recommends that the Austin City Council approve a resolution to establish Austin as a recognized soccer city and direct the City Manager to analyze challenges and needs in soccer field development and soccer programming and to provide recommendations. Rationale: Whereas, the city of Austin has demonstrated a growing interest and participation in the sport of soccer, with a vibrant community of players, fans, and organizations dedicated to its promotion and development; Whereas, Austin's diverse population embraces soccer as a unifying force, bringing together people of various backgrounds, cultures, and ages in the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie; Whereas, soccer serves as a catalyst for promoting equity and community health, offering opportunities for social inclusion, physical activity, and youth development across all neighborhoods and demographics in Austin; Whereas, ensuring equitable access to soccer fields and programming is integral to addressing disparities and promoting wellness among underserved communities in Austin; Whereas, the emergence of professional soccer teams, such as Austin FC, has captured the enthusiasm and support of residents, contributing to the city's identity as a dynamic and inclusive soccer city; Whereas, the availability and accessibility of quality soccer facilities and programming are essential to nurturing talent, fostering youth development, and promoting healthy lifestyles among Austin's residents; Whereas, there exists a need to assess and address the challenges and requirements associated with soccer field development, maintenance, and programming to ensure equitable access and utilization across Austin's communities; Whereas, recognizing the importance of strategic planning and resource allocation in advancing soccer initiatives, it is imperative to empower the City Manager to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the current landscape of soccer facilities, programming, and associated needs within Austin; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Board: 1 of 2 1. Recommends that the Austin City Council approve a resolution to establish Austin as a recognized soccer city and direct the City Manager to analyze challenges and needs in soccer field development and soccer programming and to provide recommendations. Vote For: Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: [Staff or board member can sign] 2 of 2
REGULAR MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION February 26, 2024 – 6 P.M. Terrazas Branch Library 1105 E Cesar Chavez Street Austin, Texas This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and online virtual participation. 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, call or email Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Mark Smith, Chair Magen Davis Kezia Frayjo Cristina Masters Courtney Rosenthal AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Lynda Infante Huerta, Vice Chair Steve DeRosa Andrea Herrera Moreno Sheila Mehta 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 Approve the minutes of the Library Commission's regular meeting on January 29, 2024. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing regarding APL Facilities Project Updates, Feasibility Studies & Future Bonds by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager. Staff briefing on the February Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. 1. 2. 3. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATION 4. Report of recommendation by the Unmet Needs Working Group for the addition of social workers, security personnel, and other social support resources in libraries. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and approval of a recommendation from the Unmet Needs Working Group for the addition of social workers, security personnel, and other social support resources in libraries. Discussion and approval of a recommendation to rename the North Village Branch Library. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion regarding potential recommendations related to the Austin Public Library’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget. 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 Laura Polio at the Austin Public Library Department, at 512-974-9624 for additional information; TTY …
2. REGULAR CALLED MEETING of the URBAN RENEWAL BOARD FEBRUARY 26, 2024, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1401/1402 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR. AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 *NOTE: The Urban Renewal Board no longer meets at the Street-Jones Building. 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 Courtney Banker, (512) 974-3114 or courtney.banker@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Manuel Escobar, Chair Darrell W, Pierce, Vice Chair Amit Motwani Jacqueline Watson Kobla Tetey Tam Hawkins CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers who registered to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting, if speaking virtually, will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the URB’s special-called meeting on January 29, 2024. 1. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion of a recommendation to City Council related to the FY 2024-25 annual budget for the Urban Renewal Boad 1 of 2 3. 4. 5. Discussion related to updates on future development of Blocks 16 & 18 from Austin Economic Development Corporation, including the Request for Proposals process underway (Anne Gatling Haynes and Jose Lopez, AEDC) EXECUTIVE SESSION 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) Discuss real estate matters related to the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of an interest in Blocks 16 and 18 located on East 11th Street in Austin (Real Property - Section 551.072 of the Texas Government Code) 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 …
URBAN RENEWAL BOARD MEETING DRAFT SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, JANUARY 29, 2024 The URBAN RENEWAL BOARD convened in a SPECIAL CALLED MEETING on MONDAY, JANUARY 29, 2024, at the Permitting and Development Center - 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. in Austin, Texas. Chair Manuel Escobar called the Urban Renewal Board meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Manuel Escobar, Vice Chair Darrell Pierce, Commissioners Kobla Tetey, Jacqueline Watson and Amit Motwani were present. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Commissioner Danielle Skidmore attended remotely. Board Members Absent/off the dais at call to order: Commissioner Tam Hawkins was absent. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No speakers signed up to speak. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the amended minutes of the URB’s regular meeting on December 18, 2023. On Commissioner Tetey’s motion, Commissioner Motwani’s second, the January 22, 2023, minutes were approved with the following amendment, on a 6-0-0 vote. The amendment was to correct the spelling of Vice Chair Pierce’s first name. 1 2. 3. 5. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and possible action related to updates on future development of Blocks 16 & 18 from Austin Economic Development Corporation, including the Request for Proposals process focused on the evaluation criteria and program requirements related to Phase Two of the Request for Proposals (Anne Gatling Haynes, Theresa Alvarez, and Jose Lopez, AEDC) Anne Gatling Haynes gave the update. Discussion and possible action on amending the Memorandum of Understanding between the Urban Renewal Agency and Austin Economic Development Corporation to add the Project fee schedule as an exhibit in relation to the development of Blocks 16 & 18 (Anne Gatling Haynes Theresa Alvarez, and Jose Lopez, AEDC) Anne Gatling Haynes gave the update. Commissioner Motwani requested that the minutes include confirmation from staff from the Housing Department that AEDC’s fees are reasonable and in-line with the market. Mandy DeMayo, Interim Director of the Housing Department, confirmed. On Commissioner Motwani’s motion, Commissioner Tetey’s second, the amended Memorandum of Understanding with Austin Economic Development Corporation was approved with the fee structures discussed on a 6-0-0 vote. Chair Escobar recessed the meeting for Executive Session at 6:11 p.m. 4. 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) Discuss real estate matters related to …
MEMORANDUM TO: Boards and Commissions FROM: Kerri Lang, FSD - Budget Officer DATE: January 29, 2024 SUBJECT: FY 2024-25 Budget Process and Calendar ______ The City remains committed to an inclusive annual budget process. Resident and stakeholder feedback, including the various boards and commissions recommendations, guide City leadership during budget deliberations. The FY 2023-24 budget contained investments that aligned to boards and commissions recommendations, budget priority survey results and community conversations. These enhancements included funding to improve maintenance and security at parks, expand the Enhanced Library Card program, continue emergency shelter operations, bolster the capacity of the Downtown Austin Community Court, and renovate Zilker Park restrooms to be more inclusive with an adult-sized changing table. The Financial Services Department’s Budget and Performance Division will continue to coordinate with City departments to review recommendations passed by boards and commissions. To ensure the recommendations are voted and approved by the full commission, please post the approved recommendation to the respective board and commission website, under meeting documents. The deadline for submitting recommendations is March 31, 2024, allowing staff the necessary time to review the recommendations. For your information, the proposed calendar for the FY 2024-25 budget is shown below: • March 31 • May 3 • July 12 • July 24 • August 1 • August 14 Board and Commission recommendations due to the Budget and Performance Division Department budgets due to the Budget and Performance Division Presentation of the FY 2024-25 Proposed Budget to City Council Community Input Sessions at 10am Community Input Session at 3pm Budget Adoption Additional information can be found at www.austintexas.gov/budget. Should you have any questions, please contact our office at BudgetQA@austintexas.gov. cc: Ed Van Eenoo, Chief Financial Officer, Financial Services Department
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 22, 2024 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 22, 2024 The PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD convened in a REGULAR meeting on January 22, 2024 at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Villalobos called the PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Meeting to order at 6:08 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Pedro Villalobos, Lisa Hugman, Holly Reed. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Kathryn Flowers, Stephanie Bazan, Lane Becker, Jennifer Franklin, Julie Hayes, Nicole Merritt, Kim Taylor. Board Members Absent: Shelby Orme. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Allison Johnson - Pease Park Conservancy Diana Prechter - Trail of Lights Admission Fees Claire Krebs - Festival Beach Community Garden Grace Gilker - I-35 Food Forest sound barrier Kayla Reese - Austin Parks Foundation Saira Rabbani - Norwood House Restoration Aubrea Rudder - Austin Rowing Club Santiago - Various topics APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meetings of October 23, 2023 and November 27, 2023. The motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meetings of October 23, 2023 and November 27, 2023 was approved on Board Member Hugman’s motion, Board Member Villalobos’ second on a 10-0 vote. Board Member Orme absent. 2. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board Finance Committee meeting of March 23, 2023. The motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board Finance Committee meeting of March 23, 2023 was approved on Board Member Hugman’s motion, Board Member Flower’s second on a 10-0 vote. Board Member Orme absent. 1 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 22, 2024 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Discussion and possible action on letters of support for PARD Staff and Community Groups that participated in a 50,000 square foot graffiti abatement and park maintenance project at the Heath Eiland and Morgan Moss BMX Skate Park, and for PARD staff that prepared six recreation centers to accept portable generators as a supplemental/alternative power source should electric power be unavailable. Sonny Chandler, Parks Grounds Manager and Sarah Talkington, Consulting Engineer, Parks and Recreation Department gave a presentation and answered questions. The motion to approve letters of support for Community Groups that participated in a 50,000 square foot graffiti abatement and park maintenance project at the Heath Eiland and Morgan Moss BMX Skate Park, and for PARD staff that prepared six recreation centers to …
City of Austin Parks and Recreation Nature Programs Unit Austin Nature & Science Center • Open 7 days per week • 15-acre campus • 5 buildings including the historic Ashford McGill Trailhouse • USDA permitted Wildlife Collection: 76 exhibit & ambassador animals • 22,000 Nature Trades at the Naturalist Workshop • ~165,000 Drop-in Visitors to the Austin Nature and Science Center Nature’s Way Preschool Program • 9 class weekly • 553 classes meetings • 2044 program hours • 1 parent workday • 72 unique participants Lorraine “Grandma” Camacho Activity Center • Open 5 days per week • 1 ADA accessible boat dock • 1 Traveling Competitive National Interscholastic Cycling Association Bike Team Beverly S. Sheffield Education Center • Closed for renovation: Open 7 days per week • Splash! Exhibit: located in the historic Barton Springs Bathhouse • Splash! fulfills education requirement of the US Fish and Wildlife Permit and Barton Springs Pool Habitat Conservation Plan School Programs • 269 Class Field Trips to Austin Nature and Science Center • 85 Homeschool Meet-ups & Science Club at ANSC • 39 Recreation Center Outreach Programs Field Trips • 16,184 participants • Homeschool Meet-up & Science Club = 665 participants Total participant hours = 26,518 Education Outreach • At Your School Instructor-led Programs = 571 participants • Outreach to Community Recreation & Senior Centers = 1,046 participants Public Programs • 2 Special Events • 3 Break Camp Programs • 2 Half-day Summer Camps • 1 Counselor in Training Program • 5 Home School Adventure Programs • 9 Full-day Summer Camps • 7 Out of School Time Programs Camps Break Camps • 36 program meetings • 378 program hours Summer Camps 10 Weeks • • Total participants = 828 Total participant hours = 51,888 Special Events & Citywide Initiatives Total Solar Eclipse 2024 • 10 city park watch locations • Eclipse safety and citizen science education staff training across divisions • Providing accessible eclipse experience with Light-Sound Devices • Eclipse glasses recycling program • NASA Sun Spot Collaboration
February 26, 2024 Dear Jessica Gilzow, We are wri�ng to express our hear�elt apprecia�on and recogni�on for your excep�onal contribu�ons to the Aus�n Nature & Science Center. Your dedica�on, crea�vity, and �reless efforts have significantly enhanced the quality of our center and enriched the educa�onal experiences we offer to our community. Your innova�ve ideas and steadfast commitment to improving the Aus�n Nature & Science Center have not gone unno�ced. Your vision has brought about remarkable changes that have transformed the center into a vibrant hub for learning and explora�on. From revamping the facility to introducing cap�va�ng educa�onal programming, your ini�a�ves have truly elevated our community. We are par�cularly impressed by your ingenuity in developing crea�ve educa�onal programs that engage and inspire visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Your ability to combine scien�fic knowledge with interac�ve experiences has made learning both enjoyable and enriching for our guests. Through your efforts, you have fostered a deeper apprecia�on for nature, science, culture, and the environment among our visitors, leaving a las�ng impact on their lives. Furthermore, your collabora�ve spirit and willingness to go above and beyond have been instrumental in fostering a posi�ve and inclusive community where bridges are being built. Thank you for your outstanding contribu�ons and for making a profound difference in the lives of those we serve. Warm regards, Pedro A. Villalobos Chair, Parks and Recrea�on Board Kathryn Flowers Vice-Chair, Parks and Recrea�on Board
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD DIRECTOR’S UPDATE DATE: February 2024 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT EVENTS: Barton Springs Bathhouse Rehabilitation and Beverly S. Sheffield Education Center Renovation Groundbreaking Ceremony: The Parks and Recreation Department (Department), Capital Delivery Services Department, and the Barton Springs Conservancy hosted the groundbreaking celebration on Thursday, February 22nd at 10 a.m. The outdoor event was held in front of the central rotunda of the bathhouse. For more information about the celebration, visit the Barton Springs Bathhouse Rehabilitation Groundbreaking Ceremony. For more information about renovations, visit the Barton Springs Bathhouse Rehabilitation project. District 8 Barton Springs Bathhouse Rehabilitation Groundbreaking Jamestown Neighborhood Park: The first community meeting for the Jamestown Neighborhood Park concept plan will take place virtually at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 5th. Located at 8323 Jamestown Drive, between Research Boulevard and Maine Drive, this land has been vacant since at least the 1940s. In 2021, the City of Austin acquired a 3.47-acre parcel, then expanded the park by acquiring an adjacent parcel in 2022. In 2023, the park was awarded overall park planning services by the Austin Parks Foundation. With this service, the Austin Parks Foundation, in coordination with the Department, will develop a Concept Plan shaped by community input. District 4 https://www.austintexas.gov/jamestownpark 1 Pease District Park: A community celebration commemorating the installation of the Dambo Troll will take place on March 15th, from 3-5:00 p.m. Artist Thomas Dambo will be in attendance. Construction on the installation in Pease District Park began in February 2024. The installation is part of an Art in Public Places loan agreement with Pease Park Conservancy. The troll is built from recycled wood sourced from Harvest Lumber, a sustainable sawmill dedicated to giving new life to Austin’s fallen trees. Much of the material that will be used to build Austin’s troll was milled by Harvest Lumber from the water tower that resided at the J.J. Pickle Research Campus of the University of Texas at Austin. District 10 https://peasepark.org/news/trollfaq Bolm District Park Vision Plan: The Department has contracted with Halff Associates to develop a vision plan for Bolm District Park, a 68-acre undeveloped park along the Colorado River at 6700 Bolm Road. The second virtual community meeting was held on February 13th. This meeting shared previous community feedback results, park priorities, and presented two park concepts. A survey will be open through mid-March to garner feedback on these concepts. In addition, the planning team will …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Library Commission Recommendation Number: 20240129-6: Renaming of North Village Branch Library WHEREAS, on August 2, 1971, the Austin Public Library inaugurated its North Village Branch, initially situated in a storefront property within the North Village Shopping Center; and WHEREAS, the 3,000-square-foot facility replaced an Austin Public Library mobile trailer that had previously served as a busy hub for book checkouts from the shopping center parking lot; and WHEREAS, In 1990, the library relocated a few doors down to a more spacious area within the Center, expanding to 5,000 square feet; and WHEREAS, in the 1998 City of Austin Bond Election, voters approved funding for the land acquisition, design, and construction of the North Village Branch Replacement Project, aiming to better accommodate the growing populations of the north-central Austin neighborhoods; and WHEREAS, the grand opening of the new North Village Branch, patterned after the "library for the future" green model, drawing inspiration from upscale bookstores in its design concept, took place on Saturday, May 30, 2009; and WHEREAS, John Gillum commenced his employment with the Austin Public Library as the Facilities Planning Manager on August 16, 1979, and then Facilities Process Manager, in 2011 until his retirement on July 31, 2019; and WHEREAS, Gillum assisted in the development of new libraries in the 1980s, and oversaw every aspect of the planning, design, construction, and renovation of all Austin Public Library following successful bond packages in 1992, 1998, 2018; and WHEREAS, Gillum dedicated 39 years, 11 months, and 16 days to his service with the City of Austin/Austin Public Library; and WHEREAS, Gillum played a significant role in the development of the North Village Branch Library. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Library Commission wholeheartedly supports and recommends to the Austin City Council that the North Village Branch Library be renamed to the John Gillum Branch Library. Date of Approval: Record of the vote: Attest:
LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240226-5 02/26/2024 Seconded By: Date: Subject: Improving library safety and holistic services for library patrons Motioned By: Recommendation Provide two (2) FTE or contract Social Work positions and three (3) Security positions to the Austin Public Library department to be managed by Library personnel. [Brief description of the Board’s recommendation] Description of Recommendation to Council Requesting that the Austin City Council use their authority to amend the FTE policy around Social Work titles and support the relevant ~$419,000 budget increase needed to add new positions. Rationale Austin Public Library facilities represent some of the only places in the city of Austin where people can go daily and stay for long periods of time. The library’s operational needs are unique and evolving, especially considering the rapid change in the city. City Council and other City of Austin departments recognize the critical role that our libraries play in nurturing and strengthening the safety for all residents as evidenced by the City Council’s 2019 expansion of the Safe Place program for LGBTQIA+ residents extending to the Austin Public Libraries. The presence of social workers and security personnel enhances the library by making it a safer place for residents to connect the resources they may need. With limited shelters in the most populous parts of the city, the library is sometimes the only safe place our unhoused neighbors can go where they are welcomed in for free. The library is also often used as a warming or cooling shelter for all Austin residents during times of extreme temperatures that are occurring more and more frequently. In response and shared responsibility to library customers and residents we must be aware of these evolving needs of the communities and seek combined solutions. The library currently has partnerships with Austin Public Health and with other community-based providers of wraparound services to help address some of the gaps but they are limited in scope and are present in a few library locations for short increments of time. The library commission has heard from members of the public, staff, and library leadership and we feel that the current model is not sufficient or sustainable. Social Workers in public libraries is a growing trend across the United States and many large cities have found the addition of social workers to library staff to be integral to the delivery of day-to-day services. Many library patrons are coming in …
1 Director’s Report February 2024 TABLE OF CONTENTS Highlights _______________________________________________________________________________ 3 Facilities Update __________________________________________________________________________ 5 Capital Projects Update __________________________________________________________________5 Gallery _______________________________________________________________________________ 6 Active Project Timelines _________________________________________________________________ 7 Project Highlights _______________________________________________________________________ 8 APL by the Numbers _____________________________________________________________________ 9 Programs and Outreach__________________________________________________________________ 9 Cardholder ___________________________________________________________________________ 10 Visitors _____________________________________________________________________________ 11 Circulation and Collections ____________________________________________________________ 112 Express Checkout and Holds ___________________________________________________________113 Technologyy _________________________________________________________________________ 14 Budget, Volunteers and Meeting Rooms ____________________________________________________ 15 3 HIGHLIGHTS APL Non-Resident Fees on February 29, 2024 City Council Agenda The Austin Public Library, (APL) eagerly awaits the Austin City Council meeting on February 29, 2024, where City Council is set to consider the final resolution that will lead to waiving the non-resident fees for APL Library Cards for all individuals who reside in Austin’s limited purpose jurisdictions (LTD) and extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ). APL is excited to provide free library access to a wider area of the community. Terrazas Branch Library Refresh Terrazas branch library is getting a refresh in preparation for our summer programming and services. The capital improvement project (CIP) work, funded in the FY 2024 budget for APL's deferred maintenance projects will facilitate upgrades to the facility, potentially encompassing interior & exterior painting, carpet replacement, security and fire panel upgrades, and HVAC improvements. The branch will be closed from early March to early May during the refresh. Howson CIP Work Underway Capital improvement project (CIP) work commenced on February 12, 2024, at the Howson branch library. The project, executed in three phases, started with the installation of new HVAC systems, which is expected to be completed in two to three weeks. There will be no need for closure during this phase, as units will be replaced one at a time to maintain a comfortable temperature inside Howson. The second phase involves re-roofing the library and is scheduled to begin approximately six weeks later, with a projected duration of two to three weeks and no anticipated closure. The third phase, involving interior renovations, including the circulation desk, meeting room, and reading room, is still in the design phase with lead times for materials being finalized. In January, Recycled Reads welcomed 5,664 customers, marking a 22% increase to December’s visitor count. This upswing continues a trend of escalating foot traffic and we are thrilled to witness more individuals discovering and frequenting Recycled Reads! 4 Black Girls Don't Wear Red Lipstick Step into a world of audacious beauty and empowerment with …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20240226-3 February 26, 2024 Butler Trail Code Amendment Date: Subject: Motioned By: Kathryn Flowers Recommendation The Parks and Recreation Board recommends to Austin City Council to approve an ordinance to amend Title 25 related to the environmental protections at the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, including an amended §25-8-261(B)(3)(g) to read “located not less than 50 feet from the shoreline of Lady Bird Lake as defined in Section 25-8-92, unless restoration is provided at a minimum ratio of 2:1, with the option that the applicant and the Director collaborate for a minimum 1:1 restoration, where necessary, as determined by a functional assessment of floodplain health”. Vote Seconded By: Lisa Hugman The motion to recommend to Austin City Council to approve an ordinance to amend Title 25 related to the environmental protections at the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, including an amended §25-8-261(B)(3)(g) to read “located not less than 50 feet from the shoreline of Lady Bird Lake as defined in Section 25-8-92, unless restoration is provided at a minimum ratio of 2:1, with the option that the applicant and the Director collaborate for a minimum 1:1 restoration, where necessary, as determined by a functional assessment of floodplain health” was approved on Vice Chair Flowers motion, Board Member Hugman’s second on a 6-3 vote. Those voting aye were: Chair Villalobos, Vice Chair Flowers, Board Members Bazan, Becker, Franklin and Merritt. Those voting nay were: Board Members Hugman, Reed and Taylor. Board Members Hayes and Orme absent. Pedro Villalobos, Kathryn Flowers, Stephanie Bazan, Lane Becker, Jennifer Franklin and Nicole Merritt. Julie Hayes and Shelby Orme. Lisa Hugman, Holly Reed and Kim Taylor. Against: Abstain: None. Absent: Attest: Tim Dombeck, Board and Council Liaison, Parks and Recreation Department. For:
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20240226-4 February 26, 2024 Chapter 26 Braker Lane Extension Date: Subject: Motioned By: Pedro Villalobos Recommendation The Parks and Recreation Board Recommends to Austin City Council to approve 7,818 square feet for an ASMP required roadway connection through a parkland easement. Vote Seconded By: Lisa Hugman The motion to recommend to Austin City Council to approve 7,818 square feet for an ASMP required roadway connection through a parkland easement was approved on Chair Villalobos’ motion, Board Member Hugman’s second on a 9-0 vote. Board Members Hayes and Orme absent. For: Pedro Villalobos, Kathryn Flowers, Stephanie Bazan, Lane Becker, Jennifer Franklin, Lisa Hugman, Nicole Merritt, Holly Reed and Kim Taylor. Julie Jayes and Shelby Orme. Against: None. Abstain: None. Absent: Attest: Tim Dombeck, Board and Council Liaison, Parks and Recreation Department.
