REGULAR MEETING of the LGBTQ QUALITY OF LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION Monday, January 8, 2024, at 7:00 P.M. City of Austin Permitting and Development Center, Room 1401 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr., Austin, Texas 78752 MEETING MINUTES 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 Alyssa Parra, the Commission’s staff liaison, at 512‐974‐2934 or Alyssa.Parra@AustinTexas.gov. Appointment Commissioner VACANT District 1 District 2 District 3 District 4 District 5 District 6 District 7 Mariana Krueger Brandon Wollerson Marti Bier Charles Curry Dr. Melissa Taylor Morgan Davis VACANT Minutes Appointment District 8 District 9 District 10 Mayor Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder Stakeholder CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Commissioner Dereca Sims Christian Aguirre Yuri G Barragán VACANT VACANT David Garza J. Scott Neal, Chair CALL TO ORDER ROLL CALL: Absent: Melissa Taylor Dereca Sims Chair Scott Neal called to order at 7:06 PM Page 1 of 4 Present: ● Christian Aguirre ● Marti Bier ● Yuri G Barragán ● Charles Curry Mariana Krueger ● Morgan Davis ● Brandon Wollerson ● David Garza ● John Scott Neal PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up before the meeting is called to order will each be allowed a three‐minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. MOTION TO SUSPEND ROBERT’S RULES OF ORDER Motioned by Commissioner Neal and seconded by Commissioner Curry, passed unanimously by roll call vote with Commissioner Garza abstaining. 1. Motion by Commissioner Garza, seconded by Commissioner Davis, to approve the minutes of the Commission’s Regular Meeting on December 4, 2023. Passed unanimously. APPROVAL OF MINUTES DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Discussion and possible action to approve budget recommendations. Ideally, we would have budget recommendations at the February meeting for voting. Need to think about what is under the control of the city, and what areas we can have influence over. Where do we focus our energy on? Likely topics for budget recommendations: o Technology recommendation for the housing department to have updated database o Our recommendation is to ask all city departments to collect demographic data from …
Library Commission Community Interest Announcement Reception for Library Commission, Library Foundation and Austin History Center Association December 18, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Central Library, 710 W Cesar Chavez A quorum of Commission members may be present. No action will be taken, and no Commission business will occur. Laura Polio 512-974-9624
1. REGULAR MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION December 18, 2023 – 6 P.M. Austin Central Library Special Event Center 710 W Cesar Chavez St. 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 Andrea Herrera Moreno Sheila Mehta Victoria Vogel AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Lynda Infante Huerta, Vice Chair Steve Derosa Melanie Haupt Cristina Masters Courtney Rosenthal PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the library commission regular meeting on November 27, 2023. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. DISCUSSION ITEMS Presentation by Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation, regarding The Library Foundation programs and services. Presentation by Charles Peveto, President, Austin History Center Association, regarding Austin History Center Association programs and services. Presentation by Nehemiah Pitts, Chair, Community Technology and Telecommunications Commission, regarding Digital Inclusion Stakeholder Engagement. Discussion regarding Library Commission outreach and community engagement opportunities. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing regarding Immigration Services, by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian III, Diana Miranda-Murillo, Spanish and World Languages Selector, Librarian II, Carmaleta McKinnis-Williams, Equity Inclusion Program Manager, Austin Public Library. Discussion of the December Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. 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 Library Department, at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 27, November, 2023 REGULAR MEETING 27, November 2023 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a meeting on Monday, November 27, 2023, at the Carver Branch Library, 1161 Angelina Street, in Austin, Texas. Chair Smith called the Board Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Mark Smith, Chair, Lynda Infante Huerta, Vice-Chair, Courtney Rosenthal, Kezia Frayjo, Sheila Mehta, Victoria Vogel, Magen Davis, Andrea Herrera Moreno Commission Members Absent: Melanie Haupt, Christina Masters Public Communication: General None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the October 23, 2023, regular meeting The minutes of the October 23, 2023, regular meeting were called for approval on Vice Chair Infante Huerta’s motion and Commission Member Herrera Mehta’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commission Member Haupt and Masters absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS Resources Librarian. 2. Staff briefing regarding Austin Public Library Digital Services, by Amy Mullin, Electronic The presentation was made by Amy Mullin, Electronic Resources Librarian. 3. Staff briefing on updated reconsideration procedures for Austin Public Library team staff and upcoming reconsideration committee, by Christina Nelson, Customer Access Division Manager. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 27, November, 2023 The presentation was made by Christina Nelson, Customer Access Division Manager. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATION 4. Report of recommendations by the Unmet Needs Working Group. The report of the Unmet Needs Working Groups was given by Vice-Chair Infante Huerta, including a recommendation to expand library access by eliminating the non-resident fee for those who live in limited-purpose and extra-territorial jurisdictions. Chair Smith appointed the working group to work on additional issues of unmet needs and bring updates and recommendations to future meetings. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a recommendation from the Unmet Needs Working Group regarding expanding library access and eliminating the non-resident fee for those who live in limited-purpose and extra- territorial jurisdictions. The motion to approve expanding library access and eliminating the non-resident fee for those who live in limited-purpose and extra-territorial jurisdictions was approved on a motion by Vice Chair Infante Huerta and seconded by Commission Member Davis on a 6-1 vote, with Commission Member Courtney Rosenthal voting against, Commission Members Melanie Haupt and Christina Masters absent and Commission Member Kezia Freyjo off the dais. DISCUSSION ITEMS 6. Discussion regarding Library Commission outreach and community engagement opportunities. Discussion was held regarding recent outreach and community engagement opportunities by Library Commission Members. 7. Staff briefing on …
2 Director’s Report December 2023 TABLE OF CONTENTS Highlights _______________________________________________________________________________ 3 CIP and Small Projects_____________________________________________________________________5 APL by the Numbers ______________________________________________________________________ 9 Cardholder __________________________________________________________________________ 10 Visitors ____________________________________________________________________________11 Circulation and Collections_____________________________________________________________ 12 Express & Holds ____________________________________________________________________13 Technology ________________________________________________________________________ 14 Programs and Outreach________________________________________________________________ 15 Volunteers and Meeting Rooms__________________________________________________________ 16 HIGHLIGHTS APL at Texas Book Festival APL Central Teen Librarians Letty Leal and Kathleen Houlihan continued their outstanding efforts by actively promoting APL Teen Services and the highly successful Banned Camp program within the community. At the recent Texas Book Fest, Leal and Houlihan engaged approximately 300 participants in bookmark art-making at their teen activity tent. They also conducted two lively rounds of Youth Author literary trivia. This outreach initiative resulted in meaningful connections with teens who were previously unfamiliar with Teen Central, generating interest in the library's programs and volunteer opportunities. Several parents expressed enthusiasm about bringing their teens downtown to Teen Central after the positive engagement at the event. APL Strategic Plan Workgroups We are thrilled to announce the commencement of the implementation phase of our Strategic Plan. The department is currently establishing cross-functional workgroups of APL staff with diverse skill sets and expertise to collaborate on goal-driven initiatives and measures. The teams will kick-off in January 2024. Passport Services APL Passport Services has processed over 7,600 applications this year and is 31% over initial projections for fiscal year 2023-24. Passport Services continues to participate in the monthly naturalization ceremonies hosted at APL, which adds an additional 10-15 applications in the weeks following these events. Howson November Dig It: Gardening in Texas Howson Library partnered with Austin Resource Recovery for their November Dig It: Gardening in Texas monthly event. Local gardener Austin Davenport taught attendees about soil health and composting processes and ARR provided each attendee with a kitchen compost collector to empower everyone to start the process of reducing waste, while making nutrient rich soil. Gardener Ila Falvey commented that “Class was great! I love the mini compost bins. I can't wait to start composting at home! “ 3 Portuguese-English Storytime at Milwood Austin Public Library staff at Milwood are excited to bring Portuguese-English storytime sessions to Milwood. Through a collaboration with Cultral Brasil, the storytimes aim to accommodate the sizable Brazilian community in proximity to the library and North Austin. Cultura Brasil's staff members are enthusiastic volunteers who will conduct a monthly storytime similar to the model by the Austin …
Texas Digital Opportunity Plan (TDOP) & Public Comment Opportunity Update Nehemiah Pitts III, Chairman Community Technology & Telecommunications Commission (CTTC) City of Austin 1 Agenda 1. Introduction & Overview 2. Texas Digital Opportunity Plan (TDOP) Preview 3. Public Comment Information Session 4. CTTC Outreach Plans 2 1. Introduction & Overview Digital Equity & Inclusion The All Together For Digital Inclusion - Stakeholder Summit 2023 successfully convened in the aftermath of significant federal funding ($3.3 Billion) being released to Texas for broadband infrastructure and equitable access, as well as the creation of the Broadband the Texas Infrastructure Fund Constitution in November of 2023. in spotlight The Summit aimed to educate participants about the various organizations Digital Divide, committed to achieving Digital Inclusion in Central Texas, and catalyze a call to action for collaboration, partnership, and public comment in response to the recently released Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program 5-year plan draft and the Texas Digital Opportunity Plan (TDOP). Digital Equity & Inclusion The Digital Empowerment Community of Austin (DECA) constitutes a network of nonprofits, educational institutions, stakeholders other businesses, including the Community Technology & Commission Telecommunications Technology (CTTC), Division (CTD), Austin Public Library (APL), and the Library Commission working together every day to enhance our community's engagement in a digital society, thereby fostering a more digitally inclusive Austin. Community Digital Equity is “a condition in which individuals and communities have the information technology capacity needed for full participation in our society,democracy, and economy; Necessary for civic and cultural participation, employment, lifelong learning, and access to essential services” according to the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA). Broadband Equity, Access, & Deployment (BEAD) - $3.3B Texas Digital Opportunity Plan (TDOP) Expands high-speed internet access by funding planning, deployment, and adoption Ensure people and communities have the skills and tech to participate in the digital economy $5M in planning funds to: $3M in planning funds to: ● ● ● ● Help close the availability gap Develop 5-year action plan Conduct research and data collection Facilitate publications, outreach and communications support Source: IIJA Statute Connect Texas, Digital Opportunity Plan and Public Comment Preview, BDO 11/16/2023 Presentation ● ● ● ● Help close the digital opportunity gap Develop Digital Opportunity Plan Reach covered populations Foster partnerships through engagement; establish a planning coalition What is Digital Opportunity? ❖ Digital Literacy ❖ Affordable Service ❖ Applications and online content ❖ Internet-enabled devices ❖ Quality technical support …
Digital Inclusion Stakeholder Summit 2023 Summary Report Nehemiah Pitts III, Chairman Community Technology & Telecommunications Commission (CTTC) City of Austin 1 1. Digital Inclusion Stakeholder Summit Historical Framing Agenda 2. Call(s) to Action: Public Comment, Collaboration, & Education 3. Thank yous & Acknowledgements 4. Next Steps 2 1. Digital Inclusion Stakeholder Summit Overview Digital Inclusion - Stakeholder Summit 2023 - Summary Report The All Together For Digital Inclusion - Stakeholder Summit 2023 successfully convened in the aftermath of significant federal funding ($3.3 Billion) being released to Texas for broadband infrastructure and equitable access, as well as the creation of the Broadband Infrastructure Fund in the Texas Constitution in November of 2023. The Summit aimed to educate participants about the Digital Divide, spotlight various organizations committed to achieving Digital Inclusion in Central Texas, and instigate a call to action for collaboration, partnership, and public comment in response to the recently released Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program 5-year plan draft and the Texas Digital Opportunity Plan (TDOP). Held on Friday, December 1st, at the Austin Public Library Special Events Center downtown, the inaugural Summit achieved these goals by assembling a diverse group of representative stakeholders, including community leaders, public officials, digital inclusion practitioners, governmental and NGO leaders, city service providers, internet services providers, nonprofit entities, industry thought distinguished researchers, technology experts, and leaders—all rallying under the theme… The event commenced with an indigenous people's land acknowledgment, emphasizing the importance of education, collaboration, partnership, civic engagement, and funding-focused public comment submissions. The focus of the event briefly remained on the history of Austin after the US. Civil War and the formation of a municipal strategy for growth and development. 5 6 A City Plan for Austin Texas (1928) We then delved into the root causes of the Digital Divide in Austin, TX, tracing historical challenges stemming from the 1928 City Plan, which led to racial segregation, restrictive covenants, industrial zoning, and decades of infrastructure underinvestment for marginalized groups. Disparate Outcome Areas for Marginalized Communities ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● Gaps in Wealth and Income Health Disparities Educational Attainment Disparate Impacts in Housing Gentrification and Displacement Climate Resilience Public Safety Access to Opportunity includes Digital Redlining and the ensuing This inequalities infrastructure, device access, and capabilities that endure to this day. in 7 2. Call(s) to Action: Public Comment, Collaboration, & Education Why attend a Stakeholder Summit focused on …
1. 2. REGULAR CALLED MEETING of the URBAN RENEWAL BOARD DECEMBER 18, 2023, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1406 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 Danielle Skidmore 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 amended minutes of the URB’s regular called meeting on October 16, 2023. Approve the minutes of the URB’s regular called meeting on November 13, 2023. 1 of 2 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and possible action regarding the City Manager’s evaluation of the continued need for the URP and the URA, and the URB’s recommendation to Council (Chair Escobar) 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, and anticipated process related to Phase Two of the Request for Proposals (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 …
URBAN RENEWAL BOARD DRAFT MINUTES Monday, October 16, 2023 URBAN RENEWAL BOARD MEETING DRAFT MINUTES MONDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2023 The URBAN RENEWAL BOARD convened on MONDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2023, 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 6:14 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Manuel Escobar, Commissioner Kobla Tetey, Commissioner Danielle Skidmore, Commissioner Amit Motwani, and Commissioner Jacqueline Watson were present. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: None. Board Members Absent/off the dais: Vice Chair Darrell Pierce and Commissioner Tam Hawkins were absent. Commissioner Amit Motwani joined the dais at 6:19 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the URB’s special called meeting on September 28, 2023. The minutes from the special called meeting of September 28, 2023, were approved on Commissioner Tetey’s motion, Commissioner Watson’s second, on a 4-0 vote. Vice Chair Pierce, Commissioner Motwani, and Commissioner Hawkins were absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Discussion and possible action regarding the City Manager’s evaluation of the continued need for the URP and the URA, and the URA’s recommendation to Council (Chair Escobar). 1 URBAN RENEWAL BOARD DRAFT MINUTES Monday, October 16, 2023 Discussion led by Chair Escobar and requested staff follow up with the Assistant City Manager. 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, and meetings of and updated approval of additional candidates for the Stakeholder Working Group (Jose Lopez, AEDC). Jose Lopez led the discussion. The motion to approve Paul Staples and Pam Owens to the Stakeholder Working Group was approved on Commissioner Watson’s motion, Commissioner Skidmore’s second, on a 5-0 vote. Vice Chair Pierce and Commissioner Hawkins were absent. Chair Escobar recessed the meeting at 6:26 p.m. without objection. 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) Chair Escobar reconvened the Urban Renewal Board meeting …
URBAN RENEWAL BOARD DRAFT MINUTES Monday, November 13, 2023 URBAN RENEWAL BOARD MEETING DRAFT MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2023 The URBAN RENEWAL BOARD convened on MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2023, 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 6:08p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Manuel Escobar, Commissioners Kobla Tetey, Danielle Skidmore, and Amit Motwani were present. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: None. Board Members Absent/off the dais: Vice Chair Darrell Pierce, Commissioner Tam Hawkins and Commissioner Watson were absent. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No speakers signed up to speak. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. 2. Approve the minutes of the URB’s special-called meeting on October 16, 2023. The minutes from the regular October 16, 2023, meeting were approved on Commissioner Motwani’s motion, Commissioner Skidmore’s second, on a 4-0 vote. Vice Chair Pierce and Commissioners Hawkins and Watson were absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and possible action regarding the City Manager’s evaluation of the continued need for the URP and the URA, and the URA’s recommendation to Council (Chair Escobar) 1 URBAN RENEWAL BOARD DRAFT MINUTES Monday, November 13, 2023 Discussion was led by Chair Escobar. Mandy DeMayo provided an update in response to the Chair’s questions. 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, and meetings of and updated approval of additional candidates for the Stakeholder Working Group (Jose Lopez and Anne Gatling Haynes, AEDC) Anne Gatling Haynes and Jose Lopez gave an update and responded to questions. Chair Escobar recessed the meeting at 6:14p.m. for an Executive Session regarding items 4 and 5. At 6:17pm, the Chair postponed the Executive Session and called a return to item 3. Item 3, continued. Commissioner Motwani moved to approve the appointment of Michael Rhone to the Stakeholder Working Group regarding future development of Blocks 16 and 18 on East 11th Street. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tetey and passed by a unanimous vote of 4-0-0. 3. EXECUTIVE SESSION Chair Escobar recessed the meeting at 6:23pm for an Executive Session to discuss items 4 and 5. 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 …
Urban Renewal Board Regular Mee�ng December 18, 2023 Backup for Item 3 Item 3: Update and discussion regarding the City Manager’s evaluation of the continued need for the URP and the URA, and the URB’s recommendation to Council (Chair Escobar) Part One A copy of the eleventh modifica�on to the East 11th and 12th Streets Urban Renewal Plan, adopted with Ordinance No. 20181213-101. The full ordinance and Plan are available here: htps://www.aus�ntexas.gov/page/urban-renewal-plan Addi�onal materials related to the ordinance and council ac�on are available here: htps://www.aus�ntexas.gov/department/city-council/2018/20181213-reg.htm#101 Part Two Excerpt from the twel�h modifica�on to the East 11th and 12th Streets Urban Renewal Plan, adopted with Ordinance No. 20220915-065. The full ordinance and Plan are available here: htps://services.aus�ntexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=394958 Addi�onal materials related to the ordinance and council ac�on are available here: htps://www.aus�ntexas.gov/department/city-council/2022/20220915-reg.htm#065 [Remainder of page inten�onally blank] While there is no active development at this site, in public meetings the Gilfillan Group has represented to the URA that it is actively planning for the future development of this and other parcels it owns in and around the URP area. 1322-1336 East 12th Street – Through a competitive process, the Urban Renewal Agency sold the lots to the Butler Equity Holdings, Ltd. to develop a mixed-use development in July 2015. Ten percent of the residential units will be reserved to be sold to households at or below 80% of the median family income (MFI) for the Austin-Round Rock area. The project is under construction with an estimated project completion time in Summer 2020. Façade Improvements East 11th Street East 12th Street Private Investment 1115 East 11th Street (Blue Dahlia restaurant) 901 East 12th Street (SNAP Management Group, Inc.) 1818 East 12th Street (Mission Possible) 1914 East 12th Street (Ideal Barber Shop and Galloway Sandwich Shop) Several private developments on both East 11th and 12th Street have been completed, including a boutique hotel, restaurants, a grocery/café, bars and mixed-use developments. NOTE: It is important to acknowledge that the above accomplishments have been made in the URP area, but also to note the URP area has not yet fulfilled its potential as a mixed-use, urban community. East 11th Street has experienced improvements whereas, East 12th Street still has numerous vacant parcels and/or vacant buildings, and the East 11th and 12th Street corridors remain underutilized and somewhat inconsistent with the community vision. In December 2018, and in …
JOINT SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE HYBRID MEETING FORMAT December 13th, 2023 at 6pm Room 1401, Permitting and Development Center 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 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 Rohan Lilauwala at (rohan.lilauwala@austintexas.gov or 512-974-9394). CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Kaiba White, Chair (Electric Utility Commission) Diana Wheeler, Vice Chair (Urban Transportation Commission) Charlotte Davis (Resource Mgmt. Commission) Haris Qureshi (Environmental Commission) Melissa Rothrock (Zero Waste Advisory Commission) Bertha Delgado (Community Development Commission) Larry Franklin (Austin Travis County Food Policy Board) Chris Maxwell-Gaines (Water & Wastewater Commission) Amy Noel (Economic Prosperity Commission) Stephanie Bazan (Parks & Recreation Board) Jon Salinas (Design Commission) Vacant (City Council) Alice Woods (Planning Commission) Rodrigo Leal (Mayor’s Representative) Anna Scott (Mayor’s Representative) Heather Houser (Mayor’s Representative) Yureisly Suarez (Mayor’s Representative) Christopher Campbell (Mayor’s Representative) For more information, please visit: www.austintexas.gov/jsc AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. DISCUSSION 1. Sustainable Procurement Update – Amanda Mortl (Office of Sustainability) 2. Regional Air Quality – Anton Cox (Capital Area Council of Governments) 3. Air Quality in Austin – Scott Johnson 4. Updates from the Electric Utility Commission on Austin Energy Generation Plan Updates – Kaiba White, Electric Utility Commission. 5. Discussion of amendments to the Austin Climate Equity Plan spurred by council action. 6. Approval of minutes from the October 25th meeting of the Joint Sustainability Committee. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Resolution on Austin Energy Resource Planning. 8. 2024 JSC Meeting Schedule. 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 Rohan Lilauwala at rohan.lilauwala@austintexas.gov or 512-974-9394 for additional …
Joint Sustainability Committee RECOMMENDATION 20231213-007 Date: December 13, 2023 Subject: Austin Energy Resource Planning Motioned By: Haris Qureshi Seconded By: Anna Scott WHEREAS, it is the Joint Sustainability Committee’s responsibility to advise “on matters related to conservation and sustainability and review City policies and procedures relevant to the Austin Community Climate Plan and the Austin Climate Equity Plan, including planning, implementation, community engagement, goal setting, and progress monitoring”, and WHEREAS, the greenhouse gas emissions reduction goal established by the Austin City Council in the Climate Equity Plan is to achieve “net-zero community-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, utilizing a steep decline path followed by negative emissions” that translates to approximately 75% reduction in emission by 2030; and WHEREAS, meeting the greenhouse gas reduction goals adopted by the Austin City Council in the Climate Equity Plan isn’t possible without significant emissions reductions by Austin Energy in the near, medium and long-term; and WHEREAS, if the Austin Energy Resource, Generation and Climate Protection Plan emissions reductions are only or primarily focused on 2035, Austin will not meet the established greenhouse gas emissions reduction goal; and WHEREAS, any near or medium-term increase in greenhouse gas emissions does not align with the Climate Equity Plan or the greenhouse gas reduction goals adopted by the Austin City Council; and WHEREAS, reducing and eliminating local air pollution, especially in and near historically and currently marginalized and lower-income parts of the community, is an important equity and community health priority reflected in the Climate Equity Plan; and WHEREAS, water conservation and reducing water use are goals established by the Austin City Council; and WHEREAS, methane - the primary component of natural gas - has 86 times the global warming potential as carbon dioxide when emitted directly into the atmosphere, which is a well- documented problem and natural gas also releases carbon dioxide emissions when combusted; and WHEREAS, green hydrogen currently only accounts for 0.2 percent of all hydrogen production and no hydrogen pipeline or other distribution infrastructure currently serves central Texas and no green hydrogen production exists in Texas; and WHEREAS, strict standards on the production of green hydrogen are necessary to ensure that it reduces, instead of increases, greenhouse gas emissions and those standards are not yet in place; and WHEREAS, hydrogen has 37 times the global warming potential as carbon dioxide and leakage rates from hydrogen infrastructure vary widely, making any climate benefit from using …
December JSC Sustainable Procurement Program and Procurement Emissions Inventory update December 13, 2023 Sustainable Procurement Program ○ Past- Timeline ○ Present- Program development supported by SPLC ○ Future- Next Steps Sustainable Procurement Initiatives 2004 Air Quality Improvement Through contracting preference 2005 United Nations Urban Environmental Accords Zero Waste by 2040 2007 Carbon Neutrality Plan, Sustainability Standards in Municipal Projects 2008 Responsible (Green) Purchasing Program initiated ; Resolution to Eliminate Purchasing of Plastic Bottles 2014-2017 Internal training materials developed 2018 Sustainable Procurement Program policy vision text developed 2020 Climate Equity Plan goals adopted 2022 Baseline Procurement Emission Inventory Year w/ Parametrix 2023 SPLC Sustainable Procurement Program support Sustainable Procurement Leadership Council Coaching SP Program Components 🗸 - Vision 𐄂 - Program Charter 𐄂 - Establishing Goals and Metrics 𐄂 - Strategy Development 𐄂 - Staff Engagement and Accountability Vision We envision a future where every purchase we make is a statement of our commitment to sustainability, fostering a balance between people, planet, and prosperity. By choosing climate-friendly, environmentally preferred and ethically-sourced products, and investing in small businesses, we strive to create a positive impact on the environment, communities, and future generations. Strengthening the City’s sustainable procurement program A program charter defines the ways in which our program will work toward the vision and includes: 𐄂 Program objectives 𐄂 Program and Resource Commitments 𐄂 Program Structure 𐄂 Prioritization 𐄂 Focus Areas 𐄂 Metrics for Success 𐄂 Continuous Improvements Next Steps: Continue sustainable procurement program coaching with SPLC Plan to spend 2023-2024 budgeted $100K on sustainable procurement program development and climate plan implementation Goal 2 Strategies #1-2 Sustainable Procurement Program Focus Area Update: Procurement Emissions and Impacts ○ Procurement Inventory Intro ○ Preliminary Results ○ Next Steps Climate plan and Procurement Food and Product Consumption Goals Goal 2: By 2030, reduce greenhouse gas emissions from institutional, commercial, and government purchasing by at least 50%. 1. Measure institutional lifecycle emissions • Develop a methodology to measure lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental and social impacts from non-residential purchasing and identify a baseline for progress 2. Strengthen the City’s sustainable purchasing program programs 3. Strengthen non-City institutional purchasing 4. Expand the City’s Circular Economy Program Climate plan and Procurement Food and Product Consumption Goals Goal 2: By 2030, reduce greenhouse gas emissions from institutional, commercial, and government purchasing by at least 50%. 1. Measure institutional lifecycle emissions • Develop a methodology to measure lifecycle …
Overview of Regional Air Quality Planning Efforts in the Austin MSA Clean Air Coalition Meeting December 13, 2023 CAPCOG – Regional Planning Commission in Statute; more often called a COG. • Emergency Communications 9-1-1 • Area Agency on Aging/Aging & Disability Resource Center • Homeland Security Planning & Training • Regional Law Enforcement Academy • Air Quality Planning • Solid Waste Planning • Economic Development Analysis & Technical Assistance • Transportation Planning 12/13/2023 Capital Area Council of Governments 2 Ten – county service area; State of Texas planning region 12 12/13/2023 Capital Area Council of Governments 3 CAPCOG’S AIR QUALITY PROGRAM 12/13/2023 Capital Area Council of Governments 4 Local Government Voluntary Action Central Texas Clean Air Coalition (CAC) is a national leader in pro-active, voluntary efforts to improve air quality and stay in attainment of the standards Goal: Maintaining compliance with the NAAQS, improve air quality, provide guidance • Inspection and maintenance program, vehicle replacement programs, point source controls • CAPCOG’s air quality program conducts air quality monitoring, technical work, planning, and outreach Pollutants of Concerns are Ozone (O3) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) 12/13/2023 Capital Area Council of Governments 5 Supporting Members • Austin White Lime • Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization • Capital Metro • City of Lago Vista • City of Sunset Valley • City of Taylor • Clean Air Force of Central Texas • Huston-Tillotson University • Lower Colorado River Authority • Lonestar Clean Fuels Alliance • Public Citizen • Sierra Club – Lonestar Chapter • South-central Partnership for Energy Efficiency as a Resource • St. Edward's University • Texas Commission on Environmental Quality • Texas Department of Transportation • Texas Lehigh Cement Company • Texas Parks & Wildlife Department • US Environmental Protection Agency 12/13/2023 Capital Area Council of Governments 6 CAPCOG’s AQ program • Provide technical assistance to CAC members – Monitor Pollution levels in the region – Technical reports (Annual Report, Annual Data • Preform Studies and Planning Activities – Emissions and Control Strategies (In partnership with Analysis) EPA and TCEQ) – Modeling Analysis (2015-2020 Ozone conceptual Moder, PM 2.5 Conceptual Model, Cost of Non- Attainment) 12/13/2023 Capital Area Council of Governments 7 Outreach and Education The CAC wants to educate everyone on the dangers of air pollution! Air Central Texas (ACT) is an initiative to reduce exposure to air pollution in Central Texas through voluntary actions. Our partners include local governments, regional …
JOINT SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING MEETING MINUTES Oct 25, 2023 The Joint Sustainability Committee convened in a hybrid meeting via videoconferencing and at Austin Energy HQ. Acting Chair Diana Wheeler called the Board Meeting to order at 6:07 pm. Board Members in Attendance in Person: Diana Wheeler, Charlotte Davis, Chris Maxwell- Gaines, Jon Salinas, Rodrigo Leal, Haris Qureshi Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Heather Houser, Melissa Rothrock, Kaiba White, Stephanie Bazan, Yure Suarez, Chris Campbell, Alice Woods Board Members Absent: Haris Qureshi, Larry Franklin, Bertha Delgado City Staff in Attendance: Angela Baucom, Rohan Lilauwala, Jason McCombs, Richard McHale CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION Diana Prechter encouraged JSC to recommend closure of Zilker Park Polo Field to parking. off Dais) Chris Flores encouraged JSC to support audit of the use of fertilizer on Zilker Great Lawn because of its effects on water quality in Barton Creek. 9. Approval of minutes from the September 27th meeting of the Joint Sustainability Committee. Motion to approve by Qureshi, seconded by Davis. Approved unanimously (12-0, Woods 2. Austin Resource Recovery Zero Waste Comprehensive Plan Update. – Jason McCombs, Austin Resource Recovery, Scott Pasternak, Burns & McDonnell. Qureshi asks about multifamily composting. McCombs – thinking about this for a while, coming in Oct 2024. White has several questions around goals, timelines, rollout plans. Discussions at length around workforce development, community engagement, litter control, textile recycling, fees for diversion, etc. 1. Sustainable Purchasing Best Practices – Johanna Anderson, Sustainable Purchasing Leadership Council. Discussions around potential staffing needs, resources available, engagement with institutions and businesses 3. Updates from the Planning Commission – Alice Woods PC submitted recommendations in support of changes to city telework policy Joint meeting with council on 10/26 in favor of homes initiative. 4. Updates from Urban Transportation Commission – Diana Wheeler Recent topics discussed safe routes to schools, ETOD program, parking requirements 5. Updates from Zero Waste Advisory Commission – Melissa Rothrock ZWAC made recommendation of support of ARR zero waste plan Working on multifamily composting initiative 6. Updates from Design Commission – Jon Salinas Looking at building/site design guidelines 7. Updates from Electric Utility Commission – Kaiba White AE to present on modeling at Nov meeting. Resource planning WG continued meeting AE part of EPA Solar for All grant application 10. Resolution in support of proposed Land Development …
