From: To: Subject: Date: Ramirez, Diana FW: Strong Objection to Variance Request; Case No. C15-2025-0026; 1750 Channel Road Monday, August 11, 2025 12:34:59 PM External Email - Exercise Caution Strong Objection to Variance Request; Case No. C15-2025-0026; 1750 Channel Road Please add these pictures to my email Re: Strong Objection to Variance Request; Case No. C15-2025-0026; 1750 Channel Road Dear Members of the Board of Adjustments, We, Bruce and Niloofar Slayden, representing the SLAYDEN BRUCE & NELLIE REVOCABLE TRUST at 1744 Channel Road, respectfully submit this letter to express our strong and unequivocal opposition to the variance request submitted by Red Bud Partners LP for the property located at 1750 Channel Road. The request seeks approval to construct a new dock extending 37 feet and 3 inches from the shoreline—substantially exceeding the 30-foot maximum length permitted under the Land Development Code (LDC 25-2-1176). We urge the Board to deny this request. This request is not only excessive and unjustified, but also poses a threat to navigation safety, neighborhood consistency, and surrounding property values. Critically, this variance request is inconsistent with both the letter and the intent of the applicable regulations. 1. Undermining Code’s Intent The variance request proposes a dock length that is 124% of the maximum allowable by code—exceeding the 30-foot limit by a more than 7 feet. The applicant has not provided evidence demonstrating that this increased length is necessary for navigation safety, as required under LDC 25-2-1176. In the absence of such justification, approval would set a troubling precedent and undermine the intent and the integrity of the Code. 2. Navigation Hazard and Community Consistency The proposed 37+ feet, multi-level dock would constitute a significant navigational hazard. It would be the only residential multi-level dock in the area extending nearly 125% of the standard shoreline distance. This outlier configuration deviates dramatically from the existing character of surrounding docks along Lake Austin, which are predominantly conform to code. A new multi-level dock of up to a 30’ height and 37+’ length would obstruct sight lines around the shoreline curve, increasing the risk of boating accidents. The Board must not approve any new structure that compromises boater safety on Lake Austin. 3. Adverse Impact on Neighboring Properties and the Lake Community Approval of this variance would result in immediate and measurable harm to neighboring properties, including ours. A multi-level dock of this size (extending 25% further from the shoreline …
From: To: Subject: Date: Ramirez, Diana FW: Strong Objection to Variance Request; Case No. C15-2025-0026; 1750 Channel Road Monday, August 11, 2025 12:34:59 PM External Email - Exercise Caution Strong Objection to Variance Request; Case No. C15-2025-0026; 1750 Channel Road Please add these pictures to my email Re: Strong Objection to Variance Request; Case No. C15-2025-0026; 1750 Channel Road Dear Members of the Board of Adjustments, We, Bruce and Niloofar Slayden, representing the SLAYDEN BRUCE & NELLIE REVOCABLE TRUST at 1744 Channel Road, respectfully submit this letter to express our strong and unequivocal opposition to the variance request submitted by Red Bud Partners LP for the property located at 1750 Channel Road. The request seeks approval to construct a new dock extending 37 feet and 3 inches from the shoreline—substantially exceeding the 30-foot maximum length permitted under the Land Development Code (LDC 25-2-1176). We urge the Board to deny this request. This request is not only excessive and unjustified, but also poses a threat to navigation safety, neighborhood consistency, and surrounding property values. Critically, this variance request is inconsistent with both the letter and the intent of the applicable regulations. 1. Undermining Code’s Intent The variance request proposes a dock length that is 124% of the maximum allowable by code—exceeding the 30-foot limit by a more than 7 feet. The applicant has not provided evidence demonstrating that this increased length is necessary for navigation safety, as required under LDC 25-2-1176. In the absence of such justification, approval would set a troubling precedent and undermine the intent and the integrity of the Code. 2. Navigation Hazard and Community Consistency The proposed 37+ feet, multi-level dock would constitute a significant navigational hazard. It would be the only residential multi-level dock in the area extending nearly 125% of the standard shoreline distance. This outlier configuration deviates dramatically from the existing character of surrounding docks along Lake Austin, which are predominantly conform to code. A new multi-level dock of up to a 30’ height and 37+’ length would obstruct sight lines around the shoreline curve, increasing the risk of boating accidents. The Board must not approve any new structure that compromises boater safety on Lake Austin. 3. Adverse Impact on Neighboring Properties and the Lake Community Approval of this variance would result in immediate and measurable harm to neighboring properties, including ours. A multi-level dock of this size (extending 25% further from the shoreline …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Animal Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: (20250811-7): Animal Welfare Policies and Marketing Priorities WHEREAS, spay neuter surgeries are critical services provided to the community to stabilize and ultimately reduce shelter intake of unplanned litters of kittens and puppies; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin contracted with Greater Good Charities to provide high-quality, high-volume community spay/neuter services for up to seven (7) free clinics for the residents of Austin and Travis County with the goal of up to 1,200 animals spayed/neutered for each clinic; and WHEREAS, during each of the four (4) prior clinics the maximum goal of 1,200 animals spayed/neuterd per clinic was not met; and WHEREAS, when significant efforts by the public to assist with marketing the clinic resulted in an excellent turnout for the fifth clinic held in July 2025; and WHEREAS, when Austin Animal Center worked with all their partners and increased marketing efforts it also contributed to the success of the fifth clinic. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Animal Advisory Commission encourages the Austin City Council and the Travis County Commissioners Court to support the following marketing recommendations to ensure continued excellent turnout for future spay neuter clinics by: 1. Recommending Austin Animal Center’s marketing team find new and creative ways to encourage participation in the free spay neuter clinics by posting clinic information in the Austin Chronicle, requesting the site hosting the clinic to cross promote, requesting more media coverage both before and during the clinic, creating more variety in social media posts about the clinic, and reaching out to contracted nonprofits providing services for APH/HHS to promote the clinic. 2. Recommending Austin Animal Center’s Community Cats Program work with the Greater Good Charities/Good Fix team to determine how many community cats they can accept each clinic day and plan and work with volunteer trappers and community members to fill these slots. 3. Recommending Austin Animal Center’s customer service team promote the clinic by posting flyers outside the Pet Resource Center, distributing flyers to customers, including a link to clinic information in the auto-reply for all shelter emails, emailing clinic information to every pet owner who has reclaimed their pet intact, and harvesting emails from 311 requests for the past year and email flyers to those addresses. 4. Recommending Austin Animal Center’s outreach team reinstate their spay and neuter outreach efforts where they picked up and transported owned pets to be sterilized …
ELECTRIC UTILITY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250811-014 Date: August 11, 2025 Subject: Recommendation against increasing Austin Energy monthly Customer Charge Motioned By: Seconded By: Recommendation Recommendation against increasing the Austin Energy monthly Customer Charge for residential customers without a rate case Description of Recommendation to Council The Electric Utility Commission understands the need to increase rates to make up for a budget shortfall in FY 2026, but recommends that the monthly Customer Charge for residential customers remains at $15 per month until the conclusion of the next rate case. Any additional revenues that the Austin City Council believes are critical to collect from customers without the benefit of a full rate case should be levied from volumetric rates. This will preserve the important incentive to conserve energy and will protect lower-income customers who aren’t eligible for Customer Assistance Program (CAP) discounts from inequitable increases. Furthermore, the Austin City Council should consider scheduling Austin Energy rate cases more frequently than once every five years to better keep Austin Energy budgets aligned with costs. Rationale: The appropriate amount for the monthly Customer Charge for residential customers was a hotly contested issue in the last Austin Energy rate case, in 2022. Austin Energy proposed increasing the residential Customer Charge from $10 per month to $25 per month. The Independent Consumer Advocate and nearly all other parties to the rate case opposed this proposed increase on the grounds that it was inequitable and would reduce the incentive to conserve energy. Several Austin City Council members also raised similar concerns. As a result, the final decision approved by the Austin City Council was to phase in an increase to $15 per month over the course of three years. The remaining revenues were to be collected in the volumetric rates. As part of the proposed budget, Austin Energy is requesting a 5% increase in base rates in FY 2026, and also contemplating similar requests in future years of 5%. The FY 2026 budget proposal includes increasing the residential monthly Customer Charge from $15 per month to $16.50 per month and the fee would likely also be increased in future years. While the EUC recognizes the need for a base rate increase, we are concerned about a significant increase of five percent and specifically a significant increase in the residential monthly Customer Charge from $15 to $16.50 per month without going through a rate case. This is a significant …
CITY OF AUSTIN Board of Adjustment Decision Sheet ITEM02 DATE: Monday August 11, 2025 CASE NUMBER: C15-2025-0025 ___Y____Thomas Ates (D1) ___Y____Bianca A Medina-Leal (D2) ___Y____Jessica Cohen (D3) ___Y____Yung-ju Kim (D4) ___Y____Melissa Hawthorne (D5) ___-____Niccolo A Sacco (D6) OUT ___-____Sameer S Birring (D7) OUT ___-____Margaret Shahrestani (D8) OUT ___Y____Brian Poteet (D9) ___Y____Michael Von Ohlen (D10) ___Y____Jeffery L Bowen (M) ___Y____Corry L Archer-mcclellan (Alternate) (M) ___-____Suzanne Valentine (Alternate) (M) OUT ___-____VACANT (Alternate) (M) APPLICANT: George McQueen OWNER: George McQueen ADDRESS: 506 TERRACE DR VARIANCE REQUESTED: The applicant is requesting the following variance(s) from the Land Development Code, Section 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from setback requirements to decrease the minimum interior side yard setback from 5 feet (required) to 1 foot (requested) in order to maintain a detached garage & carport for a Single-Family Residence in a “SF-3-NP”, Single-Family - Neighborhood Plan zoning district (South River City Neighborhood Plan). BOARD’S DECISION: The public hearing was closed by Chair Jessica Cohen, Board member Michael Von Ohlen’s motion to Approve; Vice-Chair Melissa Hawthorne second on 9-0 votes; GRANTED. FINDING: 1. The Zoning regulations applicable to the property do not allow for a reasonable use because: LDC 25-2-893 (B) allows for vehicle storage and (C) allows for household storage buildings allowing the structures to remain in the setback does not provide a special privilege but provides equal opportunity for vehicle and household storage 2. (a) The hardship for which the variance is requested is unique to the property in that: there are three heritage oak trees (diameter of 24” or greater) on this property adjacent to the structures (b) The hardship is not general to the area in which the property is located because: a similarly sized property that does not have heritage oak trees would not have this hardship and could reasonably construct or relocate the garage and carport outside of the setbacks. 3. The variance will not alter the character of the area adjacent to the property, will not impair the use of adjacent conforming property, and will not impair the purpose of the regulations of the zoning district in which the property is located because: the proposed renovations do not change the footprint or size of the structures and do not change the use of the structures. Elaine Ramirez Executive Liaison Jessica Cohen Madam Chair for
CITY OF AUSTIN Board of Adjustment Decision Sheet ITEM03 DATE: Monday August 11, 2025 CASE NUMBER: C15-2025-0026 ___Y____Thomas Ates (D1) ___Y____Bianca A Medina-Leal (D2) ___Y____Jessica Cohen (D3) ___Y____Yung-ju Kim (D4) ___Y____Melissa Hawthorne (D5) ___-____Niccolo A Sacco (D6) OUT ___-____Sameer S Birring (D7) OUT ___-____Margaret Shahrestani (D8) OUT ___Y____Brian Poteet (D9) ___Y____Michael Von Ohlen (D10) ___Y____Jeffery L Bowen (M) ___Y____Corry L Archer-mcclellan (Alternate) (M) ___-____Suzanne Valentine (Alternate) (M) OUT ___-____VACANT (Alternate) (M) OUT APPLICANT: Stephen Hawkins OWNER: Red Bud Partners, LP ADDRESS: 1750 CHANNEL RD VARIANCE REQUESTED: The applicant has requested variance(s) from the Land Development Code, Section 25-2-1176 (Site Development Regulations for Docks, Marinas, and Other Lakefront Uses) (A) (1) to increase the dock length from 30 feet (required) to thirty-seven feet and three inches (37’ 3”) (requested), in order to erect a boat dock in a “SF-2” Single-Family zoning district. Note: Land Development Code, 25-2-1176 Site Development Regulations for Docks, Marinas, and Other Lakefront Uses (A) A dock or similar structure must comply with the requirements of this subsection. (1) A dock may extend up to 30 feet from the shoreline, except that the director may require a dock to extend a lesser or greater distance from the shoreline if deemed necessary to ensure navigation safety. BOARD’S DECISION: The public hearing was closed by Chair Jessica Cohen, Board member Michael Von Ohlen’s motion to Postpone to September 8, 2025; Vice-Chair Melissa Hawthorne second on 9-0 votes; POSTPONED TO September 8, 2025. FINDING: 1. The Zoning regulations applicable to the property do not allow for a reasonable use because: 2. (a) The hardship for which the variance is requested is unique to the property in that: (b) The hardship is not general to the area in which the property is located because: 3. The variance will not alter the character of the area adjacent to the property, will not impair the use of adjacent conforming property, and will not impair the purpose of the regulations of the zoning district in which the property is located because: Elaine Ramirez Executive Liaison Jessica Cohen Madam Chair for
CITY OF AUSTIN Board of Adjustment Decision Sheet ITEM04 DATE: Monday August 11, 2025 CASE NUMBER: C15-2025-0027 ___Y____Thomas Ates (D1) ___Y____Bianca A Medina-Leal (D2) ___Y____Jessica Cohen (D3) ___Y____Yung-ju Kim (D4) ___Y____Melissa Hawthorne (D5) ___-____Niccolo A Sacco (D6) OUT ___-____Sameer S Birring (D7) OUT ___-____Margaret Shahrestani (D8) OUT ___Y____Brian Poteet (D9) ___Y____Michael Von Ohlen (D10) ___Y____Jeffery L Bowen (M) ___Y____Corry L Archer-mcclellan (Alternate) (M) ___-____Suzanne Valentine (Alternate) (M) OUT ___-____VACANT (Alternate) (M) OUT APPLICANT: Stephen Hawkins OWNER: Tom Davis Jr. ADDRESS: 1752 CHANNEL RD VARIANCE REQUESTED: The applicant has requested variance(s) from the Land Development Code, Section 25-2-1176 (Site Development Regulations for Docks, Marinas, and Other Lakefront Uses) (A) (1) to increase the dock length from 30 feet (required) to forty-six feet and one inch (46’ 1”) (requested), in order to erect a boat dock in a “SF-2” Single-Family zoning district. Note: Land Development Code, 25-2-1176 Site Development Regulations for Docks, Marinas, and Other Lakefront Uses (A) A dock or similar structure must comply with the requirements of this subsection. (1) A dock may extend up to 30 feet from the shoreline, except that the director may require a dock to extend a lesser or greater distance from the shoreline if deemed necessary to ensure navigation safety. BOARD’S DECISION: The public hearing was closed by Chair Jessica Cohen, Board member Michael Von Ohlen’s motion to Postpone to September 8, 2025; Vice-Chair Melissa Hawthorne second on 9-0 votes; POSTPONED TO September 8, 2025. FINDING: 1. The Zoning regulations applicable to the property do not allow for a reasonable use because: 2. (a) The hardship for which the variance is requested is unique to the property in that: (b) The hardship is not general to the area in which the property is located because: 3. The variance will not alter the character of the area adjacent to the property, will not impair the use of adjacent conforming property, and will not impair the purpose of the regulations of the zoning district in which the property is located because: Elaine Ramirez Executive Liaison Jessica Cohen Madam Chair for
Austin-Travis County Food Plan ATCFPB August 2025 – Staff Update City of Austin Food Plan Updates Food Plan Dashboard Now LIVE City Staff Report Back to Council ● City staff will provide another Memo to Council in October 2025 ● City staff will provide a summary of the Food Plan Memo to the CWEP (Climate, Water, Environment, and Parks) Council Committee in fall 2025 Implementation Collaborative ● City and County staff developed an Interlocal Agreement to support a Food Plan implementation collaborative (Strategy 9.1) ● On May 8th, City Council approved an RCA to negotiate a contract with the County. On May 13th, Travis County Commissioners Court approved the ILA with the City ● City staff released an RFP for support of an implementation collaborative. RFP will remain open through August. ● Consultant should be on-board in fall of 2025. ● Opportunity for Food Policy Board member to participate on the evaluation panel. Food Plan Implementation Convening ● First Food Plan Implementation Convening occurred on May 9th ● Food Plan webinar occured on August 7th ● Next Convening in fall of 2025. Let us know if you have suggestions on format. Food Plan - Relevant Budget Events ● City Manager presented proposed draft FY 2025/2026 budget to City Council on July 15th. ● Proposed budget for ACAR operations and staff ○ $3,301,446 ○ Includes a merging of ACAR and Urban Forestry ● City Council will vote on next year’s budget and Tax Rate Election policy on August 13th ○ Budget Engagement Public Input site ○ Austin City Council Message Board City of Austin 2026 Bond Travis County Food Plan Updates Travis County FY26 Budget Development ● Week of July 28: Preliminary budget published ● August 13-15 and 18 if needed: Potential budget hearings ● September 2-5 and 8 if needed: Budget markup ● September 30: FY26 Budget adoption Thank You! Travis County Environmental Quality: Sustainability Programs www.austintexas.gov/food /austinsustainability
ELECTRIC UTILITY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Monday, August 11, 2025 ELECTRIC UTILITY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Monday, August 11, 2025 The Electric Utility Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Monday, August 11, 2025, at Austin Energy Headquarters, 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723. Commissioner Chris Kirksey called the Electric Utility Commission meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Commissioner Lauren Bellomy; Commissioner Chris Gillett; Commissioner Chris Kirksey. Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Commissioner Kaiba White, Vice Chair; Commissioner Raul Alvarez; Commissioner Cesar Benavides; Commissioner Jonathon Blackburn; Commissioner Al Braden; Commissioner Cyrus Reed; Commissioner Joshua Rhodes. Commissioners Absent: Commissioner Dave Tuttle, Chair PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Electric Utility Commission Special Called Meeting on July 17, 2025. The motion approving the minutes of the Special Called Electric Utility Commission meeting of July 17, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Bellomy’s motion, Commissioner Gillett’s second on an 8-0 vote, with Commissioners Alvarez and Reed off the dais and Chair Tuttle absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend approval authorizing a contract for vacuum interrupter switches for Austin Energy with Techline Inc., for a term of two years with up to three one-year extension options in an amount not to exceed $10,000,000. Funding: $166,667 is available in the ELECTRIC UTILITY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Monday, August 11, 2025 Operating Budget of Austin Energy, funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. The motion to recommend approval authorizing execution of a contract for vacuum interrupter switches for Austin Energy with Techline Inc., was recommended on Commissioner Bellomy’s motion, Commissioner Gillett’s second on an 8-0 vote with Commissioners Alvarez and Reed off the dais and Chair Tuttle absent. 3. Recommend approval authorizing a contract for manhole covers, boxes, and accessories for Austin Energy with Techline Pipe LP, for an initial term of two years with up to three one- year extension options in an amount not to exceed $1,100,000. Funding: $18,333 is available in the Operating Budget of Austin Energy, funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. The motion to recommend approval authorizing execution of a contract for manhole covers, boxes, and accessories for Austin Energy with Techline Pipe LP, was recommended on Commissioner Bellomy’s motion, Commissioner Gillett’s second on an 8-0 vote with Commissioners Alvarez and Reed off the dais and Chair …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Friday, August 8, 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 PROCLAMATION Mickey Fetonte Jonathan Franks Lynn Murphy Elizabeth Slade Kristen Vassallo AGENDA Proclamation – 35th American Disability Act Anniversary – To be presented by Mayor Kirk Watson 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 called meeting on July 11, 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. Update from the Joint Inclusion Committee representatives on the work of the committee from the July 2025 meeting. 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 their most recent meetings and accomplishments. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. 8. 9. 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 regarding the creation of a community center in the South Congress and …
Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes July 11, 2025 MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Friday, July 11, 2025 The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities convened in a regular meeting on Friday, July 11, 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 5:36 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Conor Kelly, Chair Gabriel Arellano Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Lisa Chang DeLawnia Comer-HaGans Lynn Murphy Elizabeth Slade PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Zenobia Joseph – Public transportation systems in Austin Morgan Clift – Great Strides ABA APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities regular called meeting on June 13, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of June 13, 2025 were approved on Chair Kelly’s motion, Commissioner Chang’s second on an 6-0 vote. Vice Chair Meyer and Commissioners Diaz, Fetonte, Franks, and Vassallo were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 1 Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Minutes July 11, 2025 2. Staff briefing regarding upcoming events from the Office of Police Oversight. Briefing provided by Cooper Thompson, Community Engagement Specialist, and Sara Peralta, Public Information and Marketing Program Manager, Office of Police Oversight. Briefing provided by Cooper Thompson, Community Engagement Specialist, and Sara Peralta, Public Information and Marketing Program Manager, Office of Police Oversight. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Presentation regarding instant ASL Access by Joseph Tsai, CONVO. Presentation regarding instant ASL access from Convo Access provided by Joseph Tsai. Update from the Joint Inclusion Committee (JIC) representative on the work of the committee from the June 2025 meeting. Update provided by Commissioner Chang. Discussion of disability access at Blues on the Green. Discussed. Update regarding the most recent meeting of the Austin Transit Partnership Community Advisory Committee. Postponed to the next regular meeting with no objection. Discussion regarding the Texas Department of Transportation Civil Rights Division’s 35th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Withdrawn. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 8. 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 9. 10. 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. This item was postponed on Chair Kelly’s …
MAYOR'S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250808-009 Date: August 8, 2025 Subject: Partnership with the Texas Governor's Committee on People with Disabilities Motioned By: Seconded By: Recommendation The committee recommends an invitation to the Texas Governor's Committee on People with Disabilities to co-host the AWEbility Festival in October 2025 and October 2026. Description of Recommendation to Council We recommend inviting the Governor's Committee to partner as a co-host of the AWEbility Festival, which is scheduled to unfold in two phases: • October 10, 2025 – a small celebration at Austin City Hall, featuring artists, advocates, workshops, and a ceremony honoring local inclusion leaders; and • October 2026 – a full-scale music and sign language festival at Auditorium Shores, showcasing disabled performers, disability-owned vendors, and sensory-friendly spaces. We anticipate a $10,000-$20,000 budget for the event. Rationale: The Governor's Committee is well-positioned to assist the Mayor's Committee for People with Disabilities in promoting accessibility and community engagement for people with disabilities. The support of the Governor's Committee would increase the reach and impact of the festival through outreach and communication, festival program input, and accessibility practices. We also hope to explore joint efforts with the Governor's Committee to access funding through grants or in-kind donations. Vote: (Add the number vote here, even if unanimous) For: Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: [Staff or board member can sign] 1 of 1
ADA Transition Plans for Pedestrian Crossings and Urban Trails Mayor's Committee for People with Disabilities Friday, August 8, 2025 | 5PM Today’s Presenters Jetal Bhakta Pedestrian Crossing Program Manager Transportation and Public Works Department Sheida Carugati Transportation Planner DKS Associates ADA Transition Plans for Pedestrian Crossings & Urban Trails Meeting Agenda ❑Overview of ADA Transition Plans ❑Project goals & tasks ❑Accessibility focus areas ❑Ways to participate ❑Questions & answers What is the ADA? ❑Civil rights law ❑Signed on July 26, 1990 ❑Ensures access for people with disabilities ❑Requires public infrastructure to be accessible • Americans with Disabilities Act What is an ADA Transition Plan? ❑A required government document ❑Identify barriers that make it hard for people with disabilities to access places ❑Includes plans and timelines for fixing these barriers and improving accessibility ❑Helps cities like Austin offer safe and fair access to transportation for everyone Project Purpose ADA Transition Plan for Pedestrian Crossings ADA Transition Plan for Urban Trails ADA Transition Plans for Pedestrian Crossings & Urban Trails Project Focus Areas Pedestrian Crossing Barriers • Missing pedestrian push buttons • Pedestrian signals that are too fast • Missing or faded crosswalks Project Focus Areas Pedestrian Crossing Barriers • Non-ADA compliant ramps • Poorly aligned crosswalks • Obstacles in the way of the crossing Project Focus Areas Pedestrian Crossing Barriers • Crosswalk sound cues are missing • Unsafe feeling to cross due to visibility issues Project Focus Areas Urban Trail Barriers • Steep inclines • Lack of signage • Cracked pavement/missing pedestrian railing Project Focus Areas Urban Trail Barriers • Narrow trails or not enough space to pass • Obstacles in the way of the trail • Dark conditions / insufficient lighting Your Feedback Matters ❑Your input helps shape the final ADA Transition Plans ❑We’re using your feedback to: ▪ Identify barriers and areas of concern ▪ Prioritize locations for inspection and improvement ▪ Develop recommendations that reflect community needs How You Can Participate 1. Complete the online survey 2. Share survey with your network English Survey: https://speakupaustin.org/austinada Encuesta en español: https://speakupaustin.org/austinadaesp ADA Transition Plan Timeline ❑Public Outreach - June 24 – August 15, 2025 ❑50% Draft Plan – anticipated November 2025 ❑Final Plan – anticipated June 2026 Next Steps ❑A summary of this meeting and all outreach will be included in the Final ADA Transition Plans. ❑For questions or follow-up, contact us at: MobilityBonds@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2300
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250808-008 Date: July 28, 2025 Subject: Recommendation to the City Council Supporting the Inclusion of a Community Center in the South Congress and Riverside Mixed-Use Development Motioned By: Gabriel Arellano Seconded By: _____________ Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends that the Austin City Council direct the City Manager to initiate negotiations with Related Companies to include a dedicated Community Center in the South Congress and Riverside mixed-use development. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Direct the Planning and Zoning Department to revise the rezoning approval for the South Congress and Riverside development to include a Community Center. ● Allocate initial funding support for the Community Center from the FY2025–26 city budget. ● Ensure collaboration with the Office of Equity and Inclusion and the Human Rights Commission to evaluate equity and accessibility compliance. ● Facilitate a meeting between City officials and Related Companies, including representatives from the disability community, to co-develop inclusive design and programming features. Rationale ● Equity and Civil Rights: The disability community, which constitutes approximately 15% of Austin’s population, currently lacks equitable access to accessible venues. A community center would provide essential space for services, inclusive programming, and public gatherings. This proposal aligns with the City of Austin’s Strategic Direction 2023 goals and civil rights ordinances such as the Austin CROWN Act and Title II of the ADA. ● Community Needs: Public sentiment gathered via social media and local reporting shows a strong desire for affordable and community-oriented spaces. A community center will meet this need while serving as a resilience hub during climate emergencies and preserving the cultural integrity of historic neighborhoods. ● Economic and Social Benefits: The proposed center will support small and disability-owned businesses, provide gathering space, and enhance pedestrian-friendly design by fostering a greater sense of community belonging and safety. ● Inclusive Programming and Governance: The center will feature workshops in disability rights, Indigenous rights, ASL education, and STEM activities. Its leadership will prioritize governance by representatives of marginalized communities, including people with disabilities, people of color, and LGBTQ individuals. Vote For: [#] Against: [#] Abstain: [#] Absent: [#] Attest: [Signature line for staff or board member]
MAYOR’S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250808-009 Date: August 8, 2025 Subject: Recommendation to the City Council Supporting the Inclusion of a Community Center in the South Congress and Riverside Mixed-Use Development Motioned By: Commissioner Arellano Seconded By: Chair Kelly Recommendation The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends that the Austin City Council direct the City Manager to initiate negotiations with Related Companies to include a dedicated Community Center in the South Congress and Riverside mixed-use development. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Direct the Planning and Zoning Department to revise the rezoning approval for the South Congress and Riverside development to include a Community Center. ● Allocate initial funding support for the Community Center from the FY2025–26 city budget. ● Ensure collaboration with the Office of Equity and Inclusion and the Human Rights Commission to evaluate equity and accessibility compliance. ● Facilitate a meeting between City officials and Related Companies, including representatives from the disability community, to co-develop inclusive design and programming features. ● Ensure accessible public transportation serves the community. Rationale ● Equity and Civil Rights: The disability community, which constitutes approximately 15% of Austin’s population, currently lacks equitable access to accessible venues. A community center would provide essential space for services, inclusive programming, and public gatherings. This proposal aligns with the City of Austin’s Strategic Direction 2023 goals and civil rights ordinances such as the Austin CROWN Act and Title II of the ADA. ● Community Needs: Public sentiment gathered via social media and local reporting shows a strong desire for affordable and community-oriented spaces. A community center will meet this need while serving as a resilience hub during climate emergencies and preserving the cultural integrity of historic neighborhoods. ● Economic and Social Benefits: The proposed center will support small and disability-owned businesses, provide gathering space, and enhance pedestrian-friendly design by fostering a greater sense of community belonging and safety. ● Inclusive Programming and Governance: The center will feature workshops in disability rights, Indigenous rights, ASL education, and STEM activities. Its leadership will prioritize governance by representatives of marginalized communities, including people with disabilities, people of color, and LGBTQ individuals. Vote: 6-0 For: Chair Kelly, Vice Chair Meyer, Commissioners Arellano, Chang, Slade, and Vassallo Against: Abstain: Absent: Commissioners Comer-HaGans, Diaz, Fetonte, Franks, and Murphy Attest: Nekaybaw Watson
MAYOR'S COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES RECOMMENDATION 20250808-010 Date: August 8, 2025 Subject: Partnership with the Texas Governor's Committee on People with Disabilities Motioned By: Chair Kelly Seconded By:Vice Chair Meyer Recommendation The committee recommends an invitation to the Texas Governor's Committee on People with Disabilities to co-host the AWEbility Festival in October 2025 and October 2026. Description of Recommendation to Council We recommend inviting the Governor's Committee to partner as a co-host of the AWEbility Festival, which is scheduled to unfold in two phases: • October 10, 2025 – a small celebration at Austin City Hall, featuring artists, advocates, workshops, and a ceremony honoring local inclusion leaders; and • October 2026 – a full-scale music and sign language festival at Auditorium Shores, showcasing disabled performers, disability-owned vendors, and sensory-friendly spaces. We anticipate a $10,000-$20,000 budget for the event. Rationale: The Governor's Committee is well-positioned to assist the Mayor's Committee for People with Disabilities in promoting accessibility and community engagement for people with disabilities. The support of the Governor's Committee would increase the reach and impact of the festival through outreach and communication, festival program input, and accessibility practices. We also hope to explore joint efforts with the Governor's Committee to access funding through grants or in-kind donations. Vote: 6-0 For: Chair Kelly, Vice Chair Meyer, Commissioners Arellano, Chang, Slade, and Vassallo Against: Abstain: Absent: Commissioners Comer-HaGans, Diaz, Fetonte, Franks, and Murphy Attest: Nekaybaw Watson 1 of 1
