Contents Executive Summary ............................................................................................................................................................. 1 Concession Locations ........................................................................................................................................................... 2 Concession Contracts ........................................................................................................................................................... 3 Contract Terms New Concessions Solicitations 3 5 5 Zilker Café ........................................................................................................................................................................... 5 Contract Extensions 6 Austin Rowing Club at Waller Creek Boathouse ................................................................................................................ 6 Lone Star Riverboat ............................................................................................................................................................ 6 Rowing Dock ....................................................................................................................................................................... 7 Zilker Park Boat Rental ....................................................................................................................................................... 7 APR Concession Policy and Procedure Update 7 Parkland Operation and Management Agreements............................................................................................................. 8 POMA Concessions 10 EpicSUP............................................................................................................................................................................. 10 Texas Rowing Center ........................................................................................................................................................ 11 Problem Areas, Challenges, and Strategic Actions ............................................................................................................. 11 Audit of Agreements with Trail Conservancy Austin Rowing Club Expedition School Zilker Eagle Waterway Ban Barton Creek Concession Feasibility Barton Creek Streambank Restoration 11 12 13 13 14 15 16 Watercraft Census ............................................................................................................................................................. 16 Concession Sales, Payments, and Expenditures ................................................................................................................. 20 Revenue Share Payments 21 Capital Improvements and Equipment Updates ................................................................................................................ 24 Butler Pitch and Putt ........................................................................................................................................................ 24 Rowing Dock ..................................................................................................................................................................... 24 i Public Benefit .................................................................................................................................................................... 25 Austin Rowing Club .......................................................................................................................................................... 25 Butler Pitch and Putt ........................................................................................................................................................ 26 EpicSUP............................................................................................................................................................................. 26 Expedition School ............................................................................................................................................................. 26 Lone Star Riverboat .......................................................................................................................................................... 26 Rowing Dock ..................................................................................................................................................................... 27 Texas Rowing Center ........................................................................................................................................................ 27 Zilker Park Boat Rentals.................................................................................................................................................... 27 Zilker Eagle ....................................................................................................................................................................... 27 Concessions Outside of Town Lake Park ............................................................................................................................ 28 Short-Term Permits Concessions at Golf Courses 28 28 Parks and Recreation Board Recommendations ................................................................................................................ 29 Environmental Commission Recommendations ................................................................................................................. 29 Appendix 1. Austin Parks and Recreation Concession Policy and Procedure Update ......................................................... 32 Appendix 2. Temporary Concessions and Commercial Use Report FY25 ............................................................................ 33 Appendix 3. Austin Lake Water Protection Plan and Marine Waste Information ............................................................... 36 ii Executive Summary The mission of Austin Parks and Recreation (APR) is to inspire Austin to learn, play, protect and connect by creating diverse programs and experiences in sustainable natural spaces and public places. In carrying out its mission, APR has established nine permanent concessions in Town Lake Park that provide recreation services. These services include rentals of canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs); rowing instruction and memberships; food and beverage sales; short-course golf; excursion boats; and a mini train. The concessions were established pursuant to City of Austin Code Section 8-1-71, which authorizes the director of Austin Parks and Recreation to allow a concessionaire to operate a food or beverage, rental, or service concession in Town Lake Park. Additionally, Section 8-1-73 requires that on or before January 31st of each year, the director shall deliver a report to the Austin Parks and Recreation Board …
Appendix 1 AUSTIN PARKS AND RECREATION POLICY Subject Section Applicability Director Approval Policy: Policies and Procedures for Concessions in City’s Parks System Finance All Personnel Jesús Aguirre Digitally signed by Jesús Aguirre Date: 2025.12.05 14:02:47 -06'00' Reference Number PR-F-004 Effective Date November 6, 2025 Supersedes Policy Dated March 12, 1998 Signature Date December 5, 2025 It is the policy of Austin Parks and Recreation to maintain the aesthetic and environmental quality of the Parks System, provide positive recreational experiences to park visitors, and ensure a financial return to the City from park concessions. Purpose: To provide a policy for concessions in City of Austin parks. Authority: The Code of the City of Austin Texas, City Charter, Article V Administrative Organization, §4 Directors of Departments. The Director has the authority and responsibility to maintain efficiency within the operation and to determine the methods of operation to accomplish the Department’s mission and objectives. DEFINITIONS Applicable Rules – The applicable provisions of City Code Title 8, the Park Use Rules, and these Policies and Procedures, as they may be amended from time to time. Concession - a business owned by a private citizen or a privately-owned business operating in the Parks System pursuant to an agreement between the City and the citizen or business or a permit issued by the Department. Examples include, but are not limited to, food and beverage stands, boat and watercraft recreation services, bicycle rentals, pushcarts, and souvenir stands. Concessionaire – a private citizen or privately owned business operating a Concession. Director – the Director of the Department or designee. Family Member – means a biological or adoptive parent, biological or adoptive grandparent, spouse (husband, wife, domestic partner), child (biological, adopted, stepchild, foster, legal ward), sibling (biological, adopted, stepsibling), and parent, grandparent, or sibling of a spouse. Effective Date November 6, 2025 Supersedes Policy Date March 12, 1998 Reference Number PR-F-004 Page 1 of 5 Legacy Concession – an existing concession operating in the Parks System pursuant to a concession agreement with the Department that: (cid:120) Has been continuously owned and operated in the same park location by the same person, Local Business, or a Family Member of the person or Local Business for at least 20 years; (cid:120) Has operated under the same or a similar name for the entirety of its existence; (cid:120) Contributes to the City’s history and culture, as determined by the Department in its …
Zilker Park Boat Rental Legacy Concession on Barton Creek Parks and Recreation Board Meeting Austin Parks and Recreation | January 26, 2026 Presented by: Lucas Massie, Assistant Director Denisha Cox, Contract Management Supervisor II Legacy Concession Policy Authority Revised Policies and Procedures for Concessions in City of Austin Parks approved by Council on November 6, 2025, under Resolution 20251106-043 In accordance with City Code Title 8, the Austin Parks and Recreation Director has the authority and responsibility to execute policies and procedures for concessions in Austin parks in accordance with City policies and best practices and under City Code: 8-1-71-73. The Director shall evaluate a proposed Legacy Concession and determine in their sole discretion whether it meets the requirements set forth in these Policies and Procedures. 2 Legacy Concession Policy Legacy Concession Criteria A Legacy Concession is an existing concession operating in the Parks System under an agreement with the Department that: Has been continuously owned and operated in the same park location by the same person, Local Business, or a family member of the person or owner of the Local Business for at least 20 years; Has operated under the same or a similar name throughout its existence; Contributes to the City’s history and culture, as determined solely by the Department; and Has maintained its physical features in good condition. 3 Current Zilker Park Boat Rental Agreement Zilker Park Boat Rentals opened for business in 1969 as a canoe rental service for Barton Creek and Town Lake. Later they included kayaks and stand-up paddle boards (SUPs) among their boat inventories. Current Agreement: On February 28, 2006, the City of Austin entered into a revenue concession agreement. The initial agreement period expired on March 1, 2011, with two additional five-year extensions. The City extended this agreement four additional times with the last extension expiring on February 28, 2026. 4 Current Zilker Park Boat Rental Agreement Revenue Share: The agreement includes revenue obligations: Payment of minimum $18,000 annually plus 10% of any amount over $180,000 gross revenues. Annual Gross Revenue Annual Concession Payments-City FY25: $755,059 FY24: $902,856 FY23: $994,395 FY22: $1,124,276 FY21: $915,893 FY25: $75,506 FY24: $90,285 FY23: $99,548 FY22: $134,607 FY21: $91,589 5 New Legacy Concession Agreement Term An Initial Term of Ten (10) years with Two optional Five-Year Extensions Updated …
Trailers With Security Camera Pilot and Recommendations Austin Parks and Recreation Department 1/26/2026 Background: Rising Property Crime The pilot program was a strategic response to a critical surge in Burglary of Vehicle (BOV)offenses across major park locations. Safety Impact: High crime rates made it difficult for families to feel secure in parks. Strategic Deployment: Locations were chosen based on specific APD historical crime data. MEASURABLE SUCCESS: IMPACT ON CRIME 76% REDUCTION IN BOV 9/15 PARKS IMPROVED Incidents at Mt. Bonnell (Covert Park) dropped from 373 to 88 cases during the pilot period. The majority of participating sites saw an immediate decrease in reported criminal activity Deterrence Factor: Prominently placed trailers served as a high-visibility warning to potential offenders 3 UPHOLIDING PRIVACY STANDARDS LONGTERM CONTRACT Exclusive Ownership: The City of Austin maintains 100% control of all footage. Secure Storage: Hosted in a CJIS- compliant cloud with U.S.-based encryption. Strict Prohibitions: No facial recognition or biometric identification technology used. Auto-Deletion: All data is permanently purged after 60 days unless required for investigation. 4 LOOKING AHEAD: IMPLEMENTATION MASTER AGREEMENT STATUS Contract with Live View Technology (LVT) scheduled for City Council 2/5/2026. 3-Year Initial Term: Plus two 1-year extension options. Community Transparency: Mandatory signage at every monitored parking lot. Targeted Focus: Strategic placement in areas with high property crime historical rates. 5 Questions
AUSTIN PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR’S UPDATE January 2026 Recreation Services Division Athletics: Adult Volleyball Tournament The APR Athletics Office hosted a volleyball tournament on January 10th at the Austin Recreation Center. The tournament reached maximum capacity, with exciting, high-energy play, and look forward to future tournaments. Community Initiatives: Youth Scholarships Through community donations made to the Parks and Library fund, along with support from APF, qualified families are starting to receive scholarship funds to help pay for APR programs like summer camp, sports, and after school programs. Last year, scholarship usage reached its highest total, exceeding $168,000. Design Assessments Therapeutic Recreation: Universal Universal Design promotes environments and services usable by all without the need for adaptation. Assessments identify accessibility improvement opportunities and include written reports and action plans for each site. 75% of APR Recreation Centers have been assessed, with the project concluding in January 2026. Sustainability and Resilience Division Holiday Tree Recycling at Zilker Austin Parks and Recreation and Austin Resource Recovery partnered for the 39th year of Holiday Tree Recycling at Zilker Metro Park during the two weekends after Christmas. Approximately 1,500 pine trees were diverted from the landfill and turned into mulch which was offered free to the public. Over 40 volunteers worked together with Park Rangers, Forestry staff, Zilker Park Grounds staff, Austin Resource Recovery marketing and communications team members and the ARR mulching crew. Special thanks to APR Program Manager Meredith Gauthier for coordinating this event over the last several years! Park Planning Division Circle C Ranch Metropolitan Park DOLA The fenced Dog Off-Leash Area is back in place at Circle C Ranch Metro Park. Located near trail parking area of Donald E. Carpenter Way Temporary fencing will remain in place while the design is developed for a permanent space, sponsored by the District 8 Council Office. Park Planning Division New Playground at Rosewood Neighborhood Park APR partnered with Austin Parks Foundation to renovate the Rosewood Neighborhood Park playground. The existing playscape equipment included swings and a small ship-themed play structure. It offered little shade or play value for visitors. Community members identified values and priorities for the park improvements via onsite pop-ups and online surveys. The new playscape is open to the public! Work on additional improvements including a new pavilion, upgraded sidewalks, seating, and new shade trees are underway. This project was funded by Austin Parks Foundation. https://www.austintexas.gov/rosewoodplayground Park Development Division Upcoming Ribbon …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MUNICIPAL CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION MONDAY, JANUARY 26, 2026, AT 9:30 A.M. AUSTIN HUMAN RESOURCES, LEARNING AND RESEARCH CENTER 5202 E. BEN WHITE BLVD., SUITE 500, AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Municipal Civil Service Commission may be participating by videoconference. EXECUTIVE SESSION (No Public Discussion on These Items) The Commission will announce it will go into closed session pursuant to Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, to receive advice from Legal Counsel, or to discuss matters of litigation and personnel matters as specifically listed on this agenda. If necessary, the Commission will go into closed session, as permitted by law, regarding any item on this agenda. 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 Matthew Chustz, 512-974-2859, Matthew.Chustz@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Kevin Mullen, Chair Mellissa Rogers Vacant AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Kavita Gupta, Vice Chair John Umphress The first ten (10) speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes from the Municipal Civil Service Commission regular meeting on October 27, 2025. HEARING 2. 3. 4. Conduct a hearing in open session or closed session, pursuant to 551.074 of the Texas Government Code (personnel exception), on the appeal filed by Keiona Ausbie regarding their Discharge from Austin Police. Deliberate in open session or closed session, pursuant to 551.074 of the Texas Government Code (personnel exception), on the appeal filed by Keiona Ausbie regarding their Discharge from Austin Police. Action and approval on the appeal filed by Keiona Ausbie regarding their Discharge from Austin Police. STAFF BRIEFING 5. 6. Staff briefing regarding an extension to the pilot program and temporary waiver of the Municipal Civil Service Rules, including Rule 4.03, to exempt specific Positions from Posting or application requirements, while maintaining provisions of the Competitive Process to allow conditional offers based on Merit and Fitness. Presentation by Rebecca Kennedy, Deputy Director, Austin Human Resources. Staff briefing regarding Municipal Civil Service Commissioner Appointment Process and updated term …
MUNICIPAL CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2025 The Municipal Civil Service Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, October 27, 2025, at 5202 E. Ben White Blvd., Suite 500, Austin, TX 78741. Vice Chair Kavita Gupta called the Municipal Civil Service Commission meeting to order at 9:35 a.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kavita Gupta, Vice Chair Melissa Rogers Ayo Akande John Umphress PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Robert Duncan spoke suggesting a rule be added to the MCS Rules to prevent about Departments removing a job posting after a Denial of Promotion Grievance has already been filed. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes from the Municipal Civil Service Commission Regular Meeting on September 8, 2025. The minutes from the Municipal Civil Service Commission regular meeting on September 8, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Umphress’ motion, Commissioner Rogers’ second on a 4-0 vote. PUBLIC HEARING 2. Conduct a hearing in open session or closed session, pursuant to 551.074 of the Texas Government Code (personal exception), on the appeal filed by Lindsey Randall regarding their Discharge – Reduction-In-Force from Austin Public Health. A hearing was conducted on the appeal filed by Lindsey Randall regarding their Discharge – Reduction-In-Force from Austin Public Health. 3. Deliberate in open session or closed session, pursuant to 551.074 of the Texas Government Code (personnel exception), on the appeal filed by Lindsey Randall regarding their Discharge – Reduction- In-Force from Austin Public Health. Vice Chair Gupta recessed the Municipal Civil Service Commission meeting to go into closed session at 4:53 p.m. The Commission deliberated in closed session on the appeal filed by Lindsey Randall regarding their Discharge – Reduction-In-Force from Austin Public Health. Closed session ended, and Vice Chair Gupta called the Municipal Civil Service Commission meeting back to order at 5:30 p.m. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Action and approval on the appeal filed by Lindsey Randall regarding their Discharge – Reduction- In-Force from Austin Public Health. The motion to deny Lindsey Randall’s appeal and uphold the decision made by the City of Austin in the Discharge – Reduction-In-Force of Lindsey Randall was approved on Vice Chair Gupta’s motion, Commissioner Rogers’ second on a vote of 3-1. Those members voting aye were: Vice Chair Gupta, Commissioner Akande, and Commissioner Rogers. Those voting nay were: Commissioner Umphress. 5. Discussion and action to approve future meeting dates, times, and locations. Discussion was held regarding future meeting …
Municipal Civil Service Municipal Civil Service Contingent Hiring Pilot Extension Contingent Hiring Pilot Extension Austin Human Resources | January 26, 2026 Purpose In October 2024, the Municipal Civil Service Commission recommended that the City Council approve a 12-month pilot to waive the posting requirement for specific positions for Citywide hiring. The City Council approved the waiver on November 21, 2024. The pilot began in January 2025 and ended December 2025. This focused on positions that require no experience or where substitution for minimum experience is allowed. Austin Human Resources is requesting an extension of the pilot through December 2026. 2 Article IX – City Charter At a minimum, the civil service rules must contain provisions governing: (1) initial appointments, promotions, and lateral transfers, all of which shall be based on merit and fitness; (2) disciplinary probation or suspension, involuntary demotion, denial of promotion, and discharge, all of which, in the case of non-probationary employees, must be for cause; (3) the establishment of probationary periods not to exceed six months for all initial appointments, during which time the appointee may be removed from the position without cause; (4) the establishment of probationary periods not to exceed three months for all promotional appointments, during which time the appointee may be removed from the position promoted to, and returned to his/her prior position, without cause; (5) procedures for reductions in force that give consideration to the affected employees' length of service and past work performance; and (6) other provisions, not inconsistent with this subsection, that may be required by the city council. 3 Pilot Guidelines were developed stating that all departments are eligible to participate in the pilot if they have titles on the approved list. The process eliminated the posting requirement for those titles. Eligible events included in the pilot: City-sponsored job fairs, University job events, Reentry-initiative programs, Community job events. City-sponsored, community, or public events where contingent offers are provided are advertised to allow current employees and temporary employees the ability to participate. 4 4 Pilot All candidates for vacant positions must complete an interview process where they are: Evaluated for Merit and Fitness Merit: Demonstrated education, training, experience, performance, knowledge, skills, ability, licenses, or certifications. Fitness: Physical and/or mental ability to do a job with or without …
Min Experience Code City of Austin MCS Meeting 01.26.2026 Dept. Multi Multi Multi AE Aviation Aviation Aviation Aviation Aviation Aviation Multi ARR ARR Auditor APH Multi Multi SMBR AFM Multi Muni Court APH APH Multi Muni Court Muni Court Parks Multi Multi APH AE Multi Multi AE Multi Multi AE Multi Multi Multi APD Fleet Title Accountant I Accounting Associate I Administrative Assistant AE Utility Chemist I Airport Access Control Tech Airport Agent Airport Facility Representative Guest Services Specialist Airport Operations Communications Specialist Airport Operations Specialist Architect ARR Associate ARR Operator Trainee Auditor I Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Budget Analyst I Building & Grounds Assistant Business Development Counselor I Carpenter Cashier I Clinical Case Manager Community Health Worker I Community Worker Contract Management Specialist I Court Clerk Assistant Court Clerk Assistant, Bilingual Culture & Arts Instructor Customer Service Representative Customer Svc Assoc Disease Surveillance Specialist Distribution Electrician Helper Drainage Operations & Maintenance Assistant Electrician I EMS/ADMS SCADA Analyst I Engineering Associate A Engineering Technician A Elec Power Grid (EPG) GIS Analyst I Equipment Technician I Facility Svcs Representative Financial Analyst I Fingerprint Technician Fleet Equipment Technician I Min Education Requirement Bachelor's with major course work in a field related to the job High school or equivalent; substitutions allowed High school or equivalent; substitutions allowed Bachelor's with major course work in a field related to the job, substitutions allowed High school or equivalent Associate Degree, substitutions allowed High school or equivalent; substitutions allowed High school or equivalent High school or equivalent Bachelor's with major course work in a field related to the job, substitutions allowed Bachelor's with major course work in a field related to the job None None Bachelor's with major course work in a field related to the job High school or equivalent Bachelor's with major course work in a field related to the job None Bachelor's with major course work in a field related to the job, substitutions allowed High school or equivalent; substitutions allowed High school or equivalent Master's Degree with major course work in a field related to the job High school or equivalent High school or equivalent Bachelor's with major course work in a field related to the job, substitutions allowed High school or equivalent High school or equivalent Associate Degree, substitutions allowed High school or equivalent High school or equivalent Bachelor's with major course work in a field related to the job High school or …
Municipal Civil Service Municipal Civil Service Commissioner Commissioner Term Limits & Appointments Term Limits & Appointments Austin Human Resources | January 26, 2026 Background Article IX of the City Charter, approved by voters in November 2012, established: A Municipal Civil Service Commission to have 5 commission members Commissioners shall be appointed for a term of three years. Ordinance No. 20130214-045 established this Commission as a Chapter 2-1 City Board Designates Audit and Finance Committee to review Commissioner applications and make recommendations for appointments (§ 2-1-164) Excludes current City employees from being appointed 2 Commissioner Term Limit Update Prior to February 27, 2025, Commissioners could serve a maximum of 2 full terms (6 years), or possibly a combination of partial terms and full terms to reach the eight-year maximum set in City Code Chapter (§ 2-1-22) “A board member who has served eight years on the same board is not eligible for reappointment to that board…” Council passed Ordinance No. 20250227-004 amending City Code Chapter 2-1 (City Boards) to clarify certain provisions. Certain boards and commissions have members who serve two-year or three-year terms, as provided by this chapter, city code, or state or federal law. a board member may serve no longer than four consecutive two-year terms or three consecutive three-year terms on the same board. 3 MCS Commission Appointment(s) Three appointments in 2026 Commissioner Ayo Akande resigns effective January 2, 2026. Chair Kevin Mullen’s 2nd term expires May 8, 2026 (seeking reappointment). Commissioner Melissa Rogers resigns effective June 1, 2026. 4 Commission Members & Terms Current Membership First Appointed Date(s) Reappointed Term Expires Kevin Mullen, Chair* Melissa Rogers VACANT Kavita Gupta, Vice Chair John Umphress 05/09/21 02/26/24 05/09/22 05/09/22 *Council designates the Commission Chair annually 05/09/23 05/09/24 05/09/25 05/09/25 05/08/26 05/08/27 05/08/27 05/08/28 05/08/22 5 Application Process Austin City Clerk’s Office will: Follow the standard Boards and Commissions application process Accept online applications using standard Boards and Commissions application form Accept resumes to document any additional relevant qualifications Ensure minimum qualifications identified in Charter are met Identify candidates with preferred background - experience with employment, human resources, labor relations and/or mediation Provide applications received to all Council Offices through standard process 6 Appointment Process The Council Audit and Finance Committee shall review applications received by the …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Municipal Civil Service Commission Recommendation Number: 0260126-007: Extension of a Waiver of the Municipal Civil Service Rules for the Contingent Hiring Pilot Date of Approval: January 26, 2026 Recommendation: The Municipal Civil Service Commission recommends extending the “Contingent Hiring Pilot” through December 2026, temporarily waiving the Municipal Civil Service rules to exempt specific positions from posting or application requirements. Description of Recommendation to Council: In October 2024, the Municipal Civil Service Commission recommended that Council approve a 12- month pilot to waive the posting requirement for specific positions for Citywide hiring. City Council approved a 12-month waiver on November 21, 2024 (Resolution No. 20241121-060). Austin Human Resources has requested an extension of the pilot program through December 2026. This recommendation from the Municipal Civil Service Commission is to extend the pilot through December 2026. A competitive process will continue to be conducted for these positions, and selections will be made on Merit and Fitness. The City will maintain the current list of titles previously approved by council, and add three titles from Municipal Court: Clinical Case Manager, Court Clerk Assistant, and Court Clerk Assistant, Bilingual. All candidates for vacant positions must complete an interview process where they are evaluated for Merit and Fitness and screened to identify if they meet minimum and preferred qualifications. If a contingent offer is made, candidates must complete any assessments required for the position, they must successfully pass any required background checks, and they must submit an application. Rationale: The pilot began in January 2025 and ended December 2025. Austin Human Resources developed guidelines stating all departments are eligible to participate if that have titles on the approved list. City-sponsored, community, or public events where contingent offers are provided are advertised to allow current employees and temporary employees the ability to participate. The pilot has been successful with 134 interviews conducted and 49 contingent offers made during various hiring events around the City, including the City’s Annual Career Expo held in April 2025. At the start of the pilot, there were 123 vacant positions from the approved title list, and at the beginning of November there were 103 vacancies – a 16 % improvement. Motioned By: Seconded By: Vote: For: Against: Abstain: Off the dais: Absent: Attest: __________________________________
Municipal Civil Service Commission 2026 Regular Meeting Schedule January 12, 2026 January 26, 2026 July 13, 2026 July 27, 2026 February 9, 2026 August 10, 2026 February 23, 2026 August 24, 2026 March 9, 2026 September 14, 2026 March 23, 2026 September 28, 2026 April 13, 2026 April 27, 2026 May 11, 2026 June 8, 2026 June 22, 2026 October 12, 2026 October 26, 2026 November 9, 2026 December 14, 2026 2026 MCSC Meeting Schedule Approved on September 8, 2025
REGULAR MEETING OF THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MONDAY, JANUARY 26, 2026, AT 6 P.M. MILWOOD BRANCH LIBRARY 12500 AMHERST DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Commission may be participating via video conference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Pamela Carlile Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Holly Sabiston CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Magen Davis Sara Gore Andrea Herrera Moreno Edward Selig AGENDA The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on December 15, 2025 DISCUSSION 2. Discussion on anticipated legislative issues for the 90th Texas Legislative Session and potential advocacy actions, including a potential letter supporting public library principles such as intellectual freedom, free speech, libraries in mobility pathways, broadband connectivity, etc. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. 4. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Programming Update by Jennifer Peters, Division Manager, Programs and Partnerships; Bryana Salcido, Program Development Coordinator - Adults, Programs and Partnerships; and Tucker “Troy” Troy, Program Development Coordinator - Youth, Programs and Partnerships Staff briefing on January 2026 Austin Public Library Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Director of Libraries FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Laura Polio at Austin Public Library Department, at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Library Commission, please contact Laura Polio at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE HIV PLANNING COUNCIL MONDAY JANUARY 26TH 2026, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, RM. 1203 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the HIV PLANNING COUNCIL may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: Join the meeting now Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone or Teams. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register to speak, call or email the Office of Support, (737)- 825-1684 or hivplanningcouncil@austintexas.gov. CURRENT HIV PLANNING COUNCIL MEMBERS: Kelle’ Martin, Chair Marquis Goodwin, Vice Chair Kristina McRae-Thompson Alicia Alston Liza Bailey Aran Belani Henry Chan Jeremy Caballero Judith Hassan Drew Kyler AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up no later than noon on 1/23/2026 will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the HIV Planning Council regular meeting on October 27th, 2025. CONFLICT OF INTEREST DECLARATIONS 2. Members will declare conflicts of interest with relevant agenda items, service categories, and/or service standards. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Introductions/Announcements 4. Office of Support Staff Briefing 5. Administrative Agent Staff Briefing 6. Part B Staff Briefing DISCUSSION ITEMS 7. Discussion of legislative responsibilities 8. Discussion of governing documents 9. Discussion of data binder request contents DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 10. Discussion and approval of HIV Planning Council officer nominations a. Chair b. Treasurer COMMITTEE UPDATES 11. Care Strategies and Engagement Committee 12. Finance and Assessment Committee FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 13. Discussion of workplan calendar and social calendar ADJOURNMENT Indicative of action items The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. TTY users’ route through Relay Texas at 711. For More Information on the HIV Planning Council, please contact Rashana Raggs at (737)-825-1684.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE DESIGN COMMISSION MONDAY, JANUARY 26, 2026, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1405 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Design Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Nicole Corona at 512- 974-3146 or nicole.corona@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Jon Salinas, Chair Josue Meiners, Vice Chair Ramachandra “Rao” Aradhyula David Carroll Nkiru Gelles Kevin Howard CALL TO ORDER AGENDA Saira Khan Conners Ladner Marissa McKinney Evgenia “Jenny” Murkes Brendan Wittstruck PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on December 15, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the update to the Downtown Density Bonus Program. Presentation by Alan Pani, Austin Planning. Sponsors: Commissioners Howard, Murkes, and Wittstruck. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of the Design Commission’s strategy prioritizing urban design in Density Bonus Program projects in the City of Austin. Sponsors: Commissioners Howard and Wittstruck. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. 5. 6. Discussion and action to recommend to City Council two-way conversions downtown. Presented by Adam Greenfield and Brandon Nidday, Safe Streets. Sponsors: Commissioners Carroll and Howard. Discussion and action to recommend to City Council whether the project W. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard & Nueces Street, located at 601, 607, 611, 619 West Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard, 1809 Rio Grande Street, 1806 Nueces Street, 1801 Rio Grande Street, 604 West 18th Street and 1800 Nueces Street, complies with the Urban Design Guidelines for the City of Austin in accordance with Land Development Code § 25-2-586 (C)(1)(a)(ii). Presented by Leah Bojo, Drenner Group, PC, Justin Short, STG Design, and Chris Jackson, Fable Landscape Architecture. Approve a recommendation to City Council to recognize the Design Commission as an official stakeholder in the Density Bonus Program update process and recommend that the Design Commission and Staff advance …
DESIGN COMMISSION MINUTES REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2025 The Design Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, December 15, 2025, at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, located at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Salinas called the Design Commission meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Jon Salinas, Chair Ramachandra “Rao” Aradhyula David Carroll Nkiru Gelles Kevin Howard Evgenia “Jenny” Murkes Brendan Wittstruck Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Conners Ladner Marissa McKinney PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on October 27, 2025. The minutes from the Design Commission regular meeting on October 27, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Howard’s motion, Commissioner Aradhyula’s second, on a 7- 0 vote. Commissioners Gelles and Murkes were off the dais. Vice Chair Meiners and Commissioner Khan were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion of analysis on the Design Commission's recommendations and the final approved Downtown Density Bonus Program projects from the past ten years. 1 The item was discussed. 3. 4. Discussion of the draft Urban Design Guidelines regarding the sections: Introduction, Core Principle A: Protect Pedestrians and Bicyclists from the Elements, and Core Principle B: Protect Sidewalk and Bikeway Users from Motor Vehicles. The motion to postpone the item indefinitely was approved on Commissioner Howard’s motion, Chair Salinas’ second, on a 9-0 vote. Vice Chair Meiners and Commissioner Khan were absent. Discussion of the timeline and obstacles of the update to the Urban Design Guidelines. Sponsors: Chair Salinas, Vice Chair Meiners, and Commissioner Howard. The item was discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. 6. Discussion and action to select Downtown Density Bonus Program projects from the past ten years to analyze outcomes. Sponsors: Chair Salinas and Vice Chair Meiners. The motion to postpone the item indefinitely was approved on Commissioner Wittstruck’s motion, Chair Salinas’ second, on a 9-0 vote. Vice Chair Meiners and Commissioner Khan were absent. Discussion and action to select members for the Planning and Urban Design Working Group. Sponsors: Chair Salinas and Commissioner Howard. The motion to assign Commissioner Gelles to the Planning and Urban Design Working Group was approved on Chair Salinas’ motion, Commissioner Howard’s second, on a 9-0 vote. Vice Chair Meiners and Commissioner Khan were absent. COMMITTEE UPDATES 7. 8. Update from the representative of the Downtown Commission regarding the meeting on November 19, 2025. The update was given …
DDB Phase 1 – Program Format Austin Planning | Design Commission | 1/26/25 DDB Phase 1 Current Downtown Density Bonus Program Base Entitlements Sites have height and FAR limits set by their base zoning (e.g., CBD = 350ft of height & 8:1 FAR*) Participating in DDB Sites must meet gatekeeper requirements + community benefits in exchange for additional entitlements (i.e., height & FAR) Height & FAR Map Existing height & FAR map indicates additional height and FAR limits that can be achieved within each subdistrict Exceeding Height & FAR Map Sites can request Council approval to exceed allowed height and FAR limits *FAR limits do not apply to residential or mixed-use projects meeting SB840 standards 3 4 5 Proposed Amendment Approach Phase I: Create new zoning combining district(s) that include updated program requirements and regulations for Downtown Density Bonus Rezone Phase I geography into the new combining district through area-wide rezoning Phase II: Refine regulations, create additional combining districts as needed, and rezone the remainder of geography into the new combining districts Moving forward: Property owners would be able to request rezoning into higher intensity combining districts 6 Downtown Density Bonus Program – Phase 1 Create New Combining Districts (-DDB or similar) Every property within a combining district gets the same height in exchange for the same affordable housing (e.g., combining district 1 provides +100ft in exchange for 5% affordable units (or fee-in-lieu) while combining district 2 provides +400ft in exchange for 7% affordable units (or fee-in-lieu) ) Additional height is additive to the property’s base zoning height limit Define New Core Subdistrict in the Land Development Code Properties within subdistrict are eligible to rezone to the DDB Combining Districts Gatekeeper requirements or community benefits menu could be customized for each subdistrict Rezone properties within Core Subdistrict to new DDB Combining District Properties can add a fixed amount of height above their base height in exchange for participation in the DDB program If properties desire additional height, they can request rezoning into higher intensity combining districts 7 Program Heights Max. Height (?? ft) Height (?? ft) Base Height (350 ft) CBD by-right entitlements today Entitlements after DDB update and city-initiated rezoning Future max. entitlements to be requested via rezoning 8 Downtown Heights Current CBD Base Height …
Two-Way Street Conversions in Downtown Austin One Policy: Many Benefits 49% Fewer crashes 23% Less crime 39% Property value rise Two-Way Street Conversion: Evidence of Increased Livability in Louisville KY (Riggs & Gilderbloom (2015), Journal of Planning Education and Research 10-20% Increase in retail sales (Vancouver WA) "One-way streets should not be allowed in prime downtown retail areas. We've proven that." Rebecca Ocken, Executive Director, Vancouver WA Downtown Association “The design has facilitated a better response from police and fire.” “When we experience a problem, we are provided with more options to redirect traffic.” Wm. Todd Bailey, Police Chief, New Albany IN Less Congestion, Shorter Travel Times “Dozens of cities have reconfigured one-way streets into two-way streets as a means of bringing their downtowns to life.” Governing Magazine Two-Way Conversions: One Policy, Many Benefits ● Safer streets ● More walking and bicycling ● Healthier local businesses ● Faster emergency access ● Lower crime ● Higher property values ● Easier navigation and access Addressing Left-Turn Lanes & Transit Reliability ● Left-turn pockets ● Leading left-turn traffic signals ● All-way stops ● Prohibit left turns at certain intersections and/or at certain times Two-Way Conversions: Success Every Time in Austin 1992: First Street / E Cesar Chavez, Second Street (east of I-35) 2008: Cesar Chavez, Second Street 2015: Brazos Street 2017: 5th Street 2018: Colorado Street 2019: 16th, 17th, 18th Street “Sixth Street should be immediately converted to two-way traffic…" Regional/Urban Design Assistance Team (R/UDAT) of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), 1991 “Just do it.” “15 minutes after you make the change [to two-way], people will be asking why you didn’t do it 25 years earlier.” Minneapolis mayor R.T. Rybak (2010)
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Design Commission Recommendation Number: 20260126-006: Completion of Updates to the City of Austin Urban Design Guidelines WHEREAS, the City of Austin Urban Design Guidelines, created in 2000 as a set of recommendations that promote urban design standards reflective of Austin’s planning goals and policies and shared values, have not been revised since 2009 and are in need of a substantive update to address today’s development context, support current best practices in urban design, provide more clarity and predictability for applicants, improve objectivity and consistency in interpreting design guidelines, and broader applicability across the city’s urban corridors and centers, and WHEREAS, the Design Commission is chartered to offer policy recommendations regarding specific issues on urban design and participate in developing design guidelines, and WHEREAS, to receive density bonus area, the director must determine that projects seeking to participate in the Density Bonus Program substantially comply with the Urban Design Guidelines; and the Design Commission shall evaluate and make recommendations regarding whether the project complies with the Urban Design Guidelines; and the director shall consider comments and recommendations of the Design Commission, and WHEREAS, City Council Resolution No. 20210902-046 directed the City Manager to “initiate an inclusive and robust multi-phased stakeholder process for updating the Urban Design Guidelines” and to “provide the necessary support and resources to the Commission to achieve the multiple phases of the update, including preparation, creation and finalization of the guidelines and ensure appropriate review by relevant City departments and boards and commission before returning to city council for approval upon completion of this work” in September 2021. WHEREAS, the Planning Department provided a memo to Council extending the response deadline for Resolution No 20210902-046 to November 21, 2024, following initial Commission-led stakeholder meetings with subject-matter experts, and . WHEREAS, the Urban Design Guidelines Working Group of the Design Commission responded to staff comments from relevant city departments and delivered a working draft of the updated guidelines to the Design Commission liaison staff in May 2025 and was not informed until December 2025 that staff had concerns over the draft language. WHEREAS, the Design Commission has requested but has not received these new written comments on the working draft of the updated guidelines from staff and thus has not had the opportunity to refine the draft to address staff comments. WHEREAS, Council Resolution No. 20210902-046 cites the needs for design recommendations for architecture, site …
W. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Nueces Street | Austin, TX Downtown Density Bonus Program Application Package TABLE OF CONTENTS APPLICANT SUMMARY LETTER DOWNTOWN DENSITY BONUS APPLICATION VICINITY PLAN & NEARBY TRANSIT FACILITIES EXHIBIT NEARBY OPEN SPACE EXHIBIT SITE PLAN FLOOR PLANS EXTERIOR ELEVATION PLANS GREAT STREETS PLANS AND EXHIBIT CIRCULATION EXHIBIT DEVELOPMENT BONUS COMMUNITY BENEFITS CALCULATION DESIGN COMMISSION PROJECT REVIEW APPLICATION URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES MATRIX December 16, 2025 Via Electronic Delivery Ms. Lauren Middleton-Pratt Planning Department City of Austin 1000 E 11th Street Austin, TX 78702 Re: W. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard & Nueces Street – Downtown Density Bonus Program (“DDBP”) Application and Summary of Compliance with the City of Austin’s Urban Design Guidelines for a hotel and residential tower project located at 601, 607, 611, 619 W Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, 1809 Rio Grande St and 1806 Nueces St, 1801 Rio Grande Street, 604 W 18th Street and 1800 Nueces Street (the “Property”). Dear Ms. Middleton-Pratt: On behalf of the property owners, The 1806 Group LP, Jack Brown Family II Limited Partnership, Triple Play Properties LTD and Scott Sayers (“Owners”), please accept this letter and supporting documentation as a true and complete submittal application for the Downtown Density Bonus Program (“DDBP”) for the property located on the block bounded by W. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard to the north, Rio Grande Street to the west, Nueces Street to the east and W. 18th Street to the south in Austin, Texas. The project consists of a full-block development comprising a 37-story hotel/condominium building and a 34-story residential building, with the existing alley retained between the two structures. The northern building will include 287 hotel keys, 61 residential units and approximately 4,903 SF of pedestrian-oriented uses (retail/restaurant) at the ground floor. The southern building will have 318 residential units and approximately 6,515 SF of retail. The Property is located within the Northwest subdistrict of the Downtown Austin Plan (DAP) and is zoned General Commercial Services (“CS”), General Commercial Services – Mixed Use (“CS- MU”), (“GO”) and (“DMU-CO”). The Property is expected be entitled to a floor-to-area ratio (“FAR”) of 5:1 after rezoning to Downtown Mixed-Use – Conditional Overlay (DMU-CO), via zoning cases C14-2025-0090 and C14-2025-0093 that are currently in review. The eastern half of the Property is located within the DDBP and is eligible to participate in the program up to a maximum of 3:1 FAR. The …
context map • the surrounding 9 blocks • key neighborhoods/ districts • core transit corridors • public transportation STATION AT ~24TH STREET BUS STOP FUTURE LIGHT RAIL Overall Context Plan BUS STOP STATION AT 15TH STREET 0 45’ 90’ 180’ The information shown is based on the best information available and is subject to change without notice.MLK & Nueces01.21.2026 technical site plan • dimensional control for coa great streets • integration of planting ar- eas, vehicular drop-offs, etc. Overall Technical Plan COA Great Streets Compliance 0 10’ 20’ 40’ The information shown is based on the best information available and is subject to change without notice.MLK & Nueces01.21.2026
enlargement technical site plan (NORTH) • dimensional control for coa great streets • integration of planting areas, vehicular drop-offs, etc. Enlarged Technical Plan (North) 0 7.5’ 15’ 30’ The information shown is based on the best information available and is subject to change without notice.MLK & Nueces01.21.2026
enlargement technical site plan (south) • dimensional control for coa great streets • integration of planting areas, vehicular drop-offs, etc. Enlarged Technical Plan (South) 0 7.5’ 15’ 30’ The information shown is based on the best information available and is subject to change without notice.MLK & Nueces01.21.2026
illustrative level 1 site plan • interior uses fused with exterior uses Illustrative Overall Site Plan The information shown is based on the best information available and is subject to change without notice.MLK & Nueces01.21.2026w. 18th StreetNueces streetmartin luther king jr. blvd.rio grande street illustrative level 1 site plan - activated - any day • interior uses fused with exterior uses • exterior spaces activated • landscape lighting would include the following: - AE CObra-head streetlights - gfci outlets at trees for seasonal, festive lighting - southwest park would likely have small, integrat ed bollards in the \ landscape to illuminate - potential festoon / feature lighting in the alley Illustrative Overall Site Plan - Activated The information shown is based on the best information available and is subject to change without notice.MLK & Nueces01.21.2026w. 18th StreetNueces streetmartin luther king jr. blvd.rio grande streetpublic alleyrio grande streetNueces street illustrative level 1 site plan - activated - farmers market in alley • interior uses fused with exterior uses • exterior spaces activated • specialty programming, i.e. farmer’s market • landscape lighting would include the following: - AE CObra-head streetlights - gfci outlets at trees for seasonal, festive lighting - southwest park would likely have small, integrat ed bollards in the landscape to illuminate - potential festoon / feature lighting in the alley Illustrative Overall Site Plan - Activated The information shown is based on the best information available and is subject to change without notice.MLK & Nueces01.21.2026w. 18th StreetNueces streetmartin luther king jr. blvd.rio grande streetpublic alleyrio grande streetNueces street coa and daa history, interest, and focus on alley activation Downtown Austin - Alley Activation! 0 10’ 20’ 40’ The information shown is based on the best information available and is subject to change without notice.MLK & Nueces01.21.2026 conceptual rendering of alley activation - farmer’s market Conceptual Rendering - Activated Alley - Farmer’s Market The information shown is based on the best information available and is subject to change without notice.MLK & Nueces01.21.2026 MLK & Nueces thank you. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. BLVD. row centerline front of median curb drive lane 4 bike racks, (8 bikes) drive lane 2 benches trashcan streetlight row centerline front of median curb drive lane drive lane RIGHT OF WAY PROPERTY LINE trashcan streetlight 2 benches l planting zone patio zone planting zone a t n e m e p p u s l e n …
W. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Nueces Street Design Commission January 26, 2026 1 Neighborhood Context 2 Current Zoning and Use • • Zoning Application #1: • CS (General Commercial Services) and CS-MU (General Commercial Services – Mixed Use) to DMU-CO (Downtown Mixed Use – Conditional Overlay) Zoning Application #2: • GO (General Office) and DMU-CO (Downtown Mixed Use – Conditional Overlay) to DMU-CO (Downtown Mixed Use – Conditional Overlay) • Surrounded by DMU, ETOD, UNO overlay districts • Currently used as retail buildings and multifamily residences 3 Project Compliance 1. Compliance with LDC §25-2-586 (C)(1)(b): Compliance with Great Streets Standards 2. Compliance with LDC §25-2-586 (C)(1)(c): Minimum Austin Energy Green Building 2-Star Rating 3. Compliance with LDC §25-2-586 (C)(1)(a): Substantial Compliance with Urban Design Guidelines 4. Review Community Benefits Calculation Austin Energy Green Building 3-Star Rating Affordable Housing Fee-in-lieu 4 Downtown Density Bonus Location 5 Downtown Density Bonus Location 66 Site & Project Facts Address: Boulevard, Lot Size: 601, 607, 611, 615, 619 W Martin Luther King Jr 1801 and 1809 Rio Grande Street, 1800, 1802, 1806 Nueces Street and 602, 604 W 18th Street 41,829 SF (North Tower) 41,309 SF (South Tower) DMU Zoning Entitled Height: 120’ Proposed Height: 433’-6” (North Tower) 399’-6” (South Tower) DMU Zoning Entitled FAR: 5:1 Requested DDBP FAR: Overall Site FAR Average: 20:1 10:1 7 8 Southwest Corner Pocket Park Areas for Improvement: • • • • AW.4 Buffer Neighborhood Edges. PZ.2 Contribute to an Open Space Network PZ.4 Incorporate Open Space into Residential Development PZ. 12 Use Plants to Enliven Urban Spaces 9 Northeast Entry Areas for Improvement: • • • • PS.1 Protect the Pedestrian Where the Building Meets the Street. PS.4 Reinforce Pedestrian activity B. 3 Accentuate Primary Entrances B. 7 Create Buildings with Human Scale 10 Southwest Entry Areas for Improvement: • • • • PS.1 Protect the Pedestrian Where the Building Meets the Street. PS.4 Reinforce Pedestrian activity B. 3 Accentuate Primary Entrances B. 7 Create Buildings with Human Scale 11 Southeast Entry Areas for Improvement: • • • • PS.1 Protect the Pedestrian Where the Building Meets the Street. PS.4 Reinforce Pedestrian activity B. 3 Accentuate Primary Entrances B. 7 Create Buildings with Human Scale 12 Alley at Nueces Areas for Improvement: • • • • PS.6 Enhance the Streetscape PS. 7 Avoid Conflicts between Pedestrians and Utility Equipment PS. 13 Install Pedestrian-Friendly Materials at Street …
A. PROJECT INFORMATION PROJECT NAME PROJECT T YP E Infrastructure Private project PROJECT LOCATIO N/ ADDR ESS PROJECT LOCATIO N/ ADDR ESS City building & site Other Density Bonus A PPLICANT PROPE RT Y O WN ER A PPLICANT MAILI NG A DDRESS PROPE RT Y O WN ER MAI LING AD DR ESS A PPLICANT TELEP HONE N UM BE R PROPE RT Y O WN ER TEL EPHONE NUMBER PROJECT START DATE PROJECT CO MPL E TION DATE A PPLICANT’S ARCHI TE CT A PPL IC ANT’S ENGI NEER Page 8 Design Commission - Project Review Application 1. Indi cate if propo se d Pro jec t is re q u ir e d by City Ordinance to be reviewed by the Design Commiss ion . 2. D escribe the r ec omm end atio n t h at yo u a re requesting from the Desig n Com mission. 3. Current De sig n P hase o f Pro jec t ( D e s ign C o mmission prefers to see pro jec ts right aft er ap proved conceptual, sc he m atic, d esign d ev e lo pm e nt ) . 4. Is thi s Proje ct su bjec t to Site Pl an an d /o r Zonin g application ap provals? Will it b e p rese nt e d to Plann ing Commission and/o r City Co uncil? I f s o , wh en? 5. D o es t his P roj ect c om ply with L an d D ev e l opment Code Subchapter E? List specific ally an y Alternative E quiva lent Comp lianc e r equ est if any. Ple ase refer to website for Alternate Equivalent Com plia nce ( AEC) requirements. Page 9 Design Commission - Project Review Application B. PROJECT BACKGROUND 6. Prov ide proj ec t b ackgro u nd inc lu d ing go als , scope, building/planning type, and sc hedule. Broadly addre ss e ach of the “Shar ed Value s fo r Ur ban A re as ” t hat are listed on Page 6 o f the Ur ban Design Guidelines . 7. Has this proje ct c ondu cted co m mu n it y/ s t ak eholder out reach? If so, please provide do c ume ntation to d emonstrate …
MEMORANDUM Date: To: From: Subject: Meeting Date: Applicant: Working Group Members Present: 01/16/2026 City of Austin Design Commission Planning and Urban Design Working Group Downtown Density Bonus Program review of the W Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. & Nueces Street project 01/14/2026, 12:00 – 1:15 p.m., Virtual Teams Meeting Leah M. Bojo, Drenner Group, PC Nkiru Gelles, Marissa McKinney, Brendan Wittstruck Please note this Memorandum is for discussion purposes only and represents input from the Planning and Urban Design Working Group to the applicant. It is not a recommendation from the Design Commission. The applicant is requesting to participate in the Downtown Density Bonus Program (“DDBP”) to exceed the maximum FAR allowed administratively and obtain a maximum of 20:1 FAR for the DDBP half and 10:1 overall Project FAR. The western half, located outside of the DDBP area, will remain at 5:1 maximum FAR. The gross site area for the Property is 41,829 SF (North) and 41,309 SF (South), resulting in a base entitlement of 209,145 SF (North) and 516,365 SF (South). The overall Project FAR of 10:1 will allow for an additional 207,415 SF (North) and 204,623 SF (South). Per Section 25-2-586-Downtown Density Bonus Program, the first Gatekeeper Requirement states: (a) To receive bonus area, the director must determine that the project substantially complies with the Urban Design Guidelines. i. ii. The applicant must submit to the director a schematic level site plan, building elevations, and other drawings, simulations or other documents necessary to fully describe the urban design character of the project and relationship of the project to its surroundings. The Design Commission shall evaluate and make recommendations regarding whether the project complies with the Urban Design Guidelines and the director shall consider comments and recommendations of the Design Commission. Urban Design Guidelines Area-Wide Urban Guidelines Create Dense Urban Development Create Mixed-Use Development AW.1 AW.2 Compliance (Y/N) Comment Y Y 1 Density is maximized There is high variety of uses including retail, cultural, hotel, and condo. Limit Developments which Close Downtown Streets AW.3 Y Further Information Req. N N/A Y N/A Further Information Req. Y N/A No streets are being closed, including the alley, which is appreciated. The urban fabric to the west of this project is far less dense and much lower in height. It appears as though there is some articulation on the western side but it does look very bare in the elevations with a …
REGULAR MEETING of the ARTS COMMISSION January 26, 2026, at 6:00 PM Austin Energy, Mueller Assembly Rm 1111a (115). 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723 Some members of the ARTS COMMISSION may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn- live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than Noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Jesús Varela at jesus.varela@austintexas.gov or at 512-974-2444. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Gina Houston - Chair, VACANT - Vice Chair, Keyheira Keys, Monica Maldonado, Felipe Garza, Heidi Schmalbach, Kirtana Banskota, Muna Hussaini, Bailey Pownall, Faiza Kracheni, Sharron B Anderson, Nagavalli Medicharla AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Arts Commission Regular Meeting on December 15, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Update on actions taken at the January 5th Art in Public Places Panel by Commissioner Schmalbach 3. Update on actions taken at the December 17th Downtown Commission meeting by Commissioner Houston 4. Report from Mayor’s Public Places Task Force by Commissioner Garza. 5. Discussion on creating technical workshops at Cultural Centers. STAFF BRIEFINGS 6. Staff briefing regarding an update on the Hotel Occupancy Tax by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor. 7. Staff briefing regarding update on the Cultural Arts Funding Programs by Jesús Pantel, Cultural Funding Supervisor. 8. Staff briefing regarding an update on the AACME Funding Programs by Laura Odegaard, Acting Division Manager, AACME. 9. Staff briefing regarding an update on Art in Public Places by Jaime Castillo, Art in Public Places Manager. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 10. Approve a recommendation for the Colony Park Pool Art in Public Places Project Final Design - Chirs Tobar and Celica Ledesma. 11. Approve a recommendation for the Faulk History Center Art in Public Places Project Final Design - Suzy Gonzalez. 12. Discussion and possible recommendations to Spanish language contracts for Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment (AACME) grants. 13. Discussion and possible action to elect new Vice Chair. …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION (CDC) JANUARY 24, 2026 – 9:00 AM STREET JONES BUILDING - ROOM 400A 1000 EAST 11TH STREET, 78702 AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the CDC 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, contact Miguel Lopez, (512) 975-1575, Miguel.lopez@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Noe Elias, Chair, Montopolis Nyeka Arnold, North Austin Tisha-Vonique Hood, Public Sector Raul E. Longoria, South Austin Cassandra Medrano, South Austin Jo Anne Ortiz, Public Sector Lyric E. Wardlow, Public Sector Jenny E. Achilles, Vice Chair, Private Sector Taniquewa S. Brewster, Rosewood-Zaragosa Cynthia Jaso, Dove Springs Sonia Martinez, East Austin Valerie Menard, St. John’s Ebonie Trice-Oliver, Colony Park 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 ITEMS 1. 2. 3. Discussion of Retreat Goals and Objectives. Discussion led by Chair Noe Elias. Discussion of Agenda and Timeline for the Retreat Activities. Discussion led by Miguel Lopez, Planner I, Austin Housing. Discussion and Team Building Activity. Discussion led by Chair Noe Elias. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Discussion of the CDC’s role and purpose. Discussion led by Nefertitti Jackmon, Community Displacement Prevention Officer, Austin Housing. Presentation regarding “A Brief History of Community Action”. Presentation by Angel Zambarano, Program Manager III, Austin Public Health. Presentation regarding the “Home Options for Mobility and Equity” (HOME) and “Community Development Block Grant” (CDBG) federal funds. Presentation by Susan Watkins, Housing Division Manager, Austin Housing. Presentation regarding the “Establishment of FY 25/26 Goals for the CDC” to include the, “Top Policy Priorities” and the “Process for achieving the identified priority goals”. Discussion led by Dr. Marla Torrado, Housing Division Manager, Austin Housing. Presentation and activity regarding the narrowing and alignment of identified priorities. Presentation by Dr. Marla Torrado, Housing Division Manager, Austin Housing. Discussion and review of the FY 25/26 Goals. Discussion led by Vice Chair Jenny Achilles. Discussion …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION OPERATIONS COMMITTEE Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 11 a.m. Permitting and Development Center, Room 1203 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive AUSTIN, TEXAS 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, contact Cara Bertron at (512) 974-1446 or cara.bertron@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS Judah Rice, Chair Jeffrey Acton Trey McWhorter AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order or, for remote participation, no later than noon the day before the meeting, will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. 2. Approve the minutes of the Operations Committee regular meeting on September 15, 2025. Approve the minutes of the Operations Committee regular meeting on December 18, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of ways to approach concerns about structural issues in older buildings. PUBLIC HEARINGS/DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Discussion and possible action on Historic Sign Standards. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Cara Bertron at Austin Planning at (512) 974-1446 or cara.bertron@austintexas.gov to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Operations Committee, please contact Cara Bertron at (512) 974-1446 or cara.bertron@austintexas.gov.
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION OPERATIONS COMMITTEE Monday, September 15, 2025 – 11 a.m. Permitting and Development Center Conference Room 1203 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. Austin, TX 78752 COMMITTEE MEMBERS: x x x Jeffrey Acton Trey McWhorter Judah Rice DRAFT MINUTES CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No public communication. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. Operations Committee purview, as outlined in Historic Landmark Commission bylaws • Review of Committee purview 2. Equity-Based Preservation Plan progress dashboard and implementation plan • Review of progress dashboard and progress database for the Equity-Based Preservation Plan • Explanation of how Plan recommendations were prioritized for implementation 3. Feedback on list of potential educational and outreach materials • Recommendation that materials from other departments reflect preservation good practices • Request to develop use cases and user personas to identify gaps in existing materials • Discussion of proactive outreach out to historic property owners about historic review requirements and good practices (e.g., via real estate agents) 4. Possible changes to historic preservation sections of the Land Development Code • Overview of code change process 5. Proposed near-term items for Committee review and input • Committee members can suggest items for future agendas ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call the Historic Preservation Office at 512-974- 3393 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Operations Committee, please contact Cara Bertron at 512- 974-1446.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION OPERATIONS COMMITTEE Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 11 a.m. Permitting and Development Center, Room 1203 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive AUSTIN, TEXAS CURRENT COMMISSIONERS Judah Rice, Chair Jeffrey Acton Trey McWhorter DRAFT MINUTES CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No public communication. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. 2. Approve the minutes of the Operations Committee regular meeting on July 22, 2024. MOTION: Approve the minutes from July 22, 2024 on a motion by Commissioner Rice, Commissioner Acton seconding. Vote: 3-0. Approve the minutes of the Operations Committee regular meeting on November 19, 2025. MOTION: Approve the minutes from November 19, 2025 on a motion by Commissioner Acton, Commissioner McWhorter seconding. Vote: 3-0. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of Historic Sign Standards. • Commissioners reviewed photographs of existing signs and discussed how they relate to the Historic Sign Standards. • Commissioners discussed different approaches to existing historic-age signs and new signs. • Commissioners discussed potential revisions to the Historic Sign Standards, including the need for greater accessibility with examples. 4. Discussion of ways to approach concerns about structural issues in older buildings. Not discussed. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT
REGULAR CALLED MEETING ELECTRIC BOARD Wednesday January 21, 2026 @ 10:00 AM- In Person/Web Ex PERMITTING DEVELOPMENT CENTER/ 1st FLOOR, CONF RM 1401-1402 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR AUSTIN, TEXAS Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register, contact rick.arzola@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: David Johnson- Chair; Gabe Flores- Vice Chair; Cochren, Joel; Deschaine, David; Grant, Michael; Goss, Delwin; Hernandez, Joseph; King, Kenny; Shope, Victoria; Wallace, Rogelio CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES- 1. Approve the minutes of the Electrical Board Regular Called Meeting from October 15, 2025 DISCUSSION 2. Update on Austin Energy Disconnect program team on any changes to the contractor registration or disconnect program 3. Update with Austin Energy metering team on the proposed changes in the Austin Energy Criteria Manual 4. Discussion on Commercial Plan Review update; Submittals, on time ratio and staffing. 5. Discussion on Building and Trade Contractor Service update; permit application process, turnaround times and staffing. 6. Discussion with Commercial and Residential Inspection staff on updates regarding staff vacancies and timely inspections. DISCUSSION AND ACTION 7. Approve a recommendation to Council to adopt the 2026 National Electrical Code local ordinance. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Rick Arola at Austin Development Services Department, at 512-974-2417 or rick.arzola@austintexas.gov, to request service or for additional information. For more rick.arzola@austintexas.gov information on the Electrical Board please contact Rick Arzola at 512-974-2417 and
2026 City of Austin Electrical Code Amendments Austin Development Services | Date Meeting Purpose To present proposed changes to the 2026 City of Austin Electric Code Amendments. 2 Reduce Local Amendments ▪ Goal: To minimize the number of amendments and return to model Code. ▪ Reasons for amendments ▪ Council mandated ▪ Business needs ▪ Clarification purposes ▪ ISO Rating ▪ Strikethroughs in this presentation means removed from amendments and return to model Code. 3 25-12-4 Electrical Code AN ORDINANCE REPEALING AND REPLACING ARTICLE 4 OF CHAPTER 25-12 TO ADOPT THE 2023 2026 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE AND LOCAL AMENDMENTS; AND CREATING OFENSES AND PENALTIES. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: PART 1. City Code Chapter 25-12 is amended to repeal Article 4 (Electrical Code) and replaced with a new Article 4 to read as follows: Removed 2023 and replaced it with 2026 thru-out 4 25-12-4 Electrical Code 25-12-111 ELECTRICAL CODE. 5 25-12-4 Electrical Code (A) The National Electrical Code, 2023 2026 Edition and Annex H (collectively “2023 2026 Electrical Code”), published by the National Fire Protection Association are adopted and incorporated by reference into this section with the deletions in Subsection (B) and amendments in Sections 25-12-113 (Local Amendments to the 2023 2026 Electrical Code – Administration and Enforcement) and 25-12-114 (Local Amendments to the 2023 2026 Electrical Code - Technical). 6 25-12-4 Electrical Code (B) The following provisions of the 2023 2026 Electrical Code are deleted: Section 80.2 Section 80.15 Section 80.19(C) Section 80.19(D) Section 80.19(E) Section 80.21 Section 80. 23(B) Section 80.27 Section 80.35 Section 110.12 (except (A) & (B)) Section 210.5(C)(1) Section 230.70(A) Section 680.41 7 25-12-4 Electrical Code 25-12-113 LOCAL AMENDMENTS TO THE 2023 2026 ELECTRICAL CODE ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT. 8 25-12-4 Electrical Code Removing any specification reference 80.19 (C) Issuance of Permits. (1) Standard Permits. (b) The building official is responsible for reviewing applications plan specifications, and other data submitted by an applicant. Other departments review the plans as necessary to verify compliance with applicable laws. 9 25-12-4 Electrical Code (c) The building official must issue a permit to an applicant if: (i) the building official finds that the work described in the permit application and in the plans, specifications , and other support data submitted with the application conform to the requirements of the Electrical Code and other applicable laws and ordinances; and (ii) the required fees have …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE ECONOMIC PROSPERITY COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2026, 6:30PM CITY HALL, BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W. 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Economic Prosperity Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Ryan Sperling, 512-974-3568, ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Commissioner Appointment Nicole Tomaszewski Ofelia Zapata Raquel Valdez Sanchez (Vice Chair) Michael Nahas Rodrigo Cantu Shakeel Rashed District 1 District 2 District 3 District 4 District 5 District 6 Commissioner Zain Pleuthner Appointment District 7 VACANT District 8 Aaron Gonzales (Chair) District 9 Aditi Joshi Jake Randall District 10 Mayor AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Economic Prosperity Commission Regular Meeting on December 17, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. Discussion regarding potential goals and topics for future working groups and recommendations. Discussion regarding upcoming council initiatives relevant to the Economic Prosperity Commission. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Presentation by Commissioner Randall and possible approval of an impact assessment framework and recommendation approval guidelines. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Ryan Sperling at Austin City Clerk’s Office, at 512- 974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov, to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Economic Prosperity Commission, please contact Ryan Sperling at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov.
ECOMNOMIC PROSPERITY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2025 The Economic Prosperity Commission convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at 301 W 2nd St. in Austin, Texas. Chair Gonzales called the Economic Prosperity Commission meeting to order at 6:32 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Aaron Gonzales, Chair Aditi Joshi Michael Nahas Zain Pleuthner Jacob Randall Shakeel Rashed Nicole Tomaszewski Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Raquel Valdez Sanchez, Vice-Chair Rodrigo Cantu PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Economic Prosperity Commission Regular Meeting on November 19, 2025. The minutes of the November 19, 2025 regular meeting of the Economic Prosperity Commission was approved on Commissioner Rashed’s motion, Commissioner Randall’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Zapata was absent. 1 DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Discussion to deliberate the commission’s priorities over the next six months and timeline goals for recommendations. Discussed. Proposal to create a working group at the next meeting was accepted without objection on Chair Gonzales’ motion, Commissioner Joshi’s second. Presentation by Chair Gonzales training members on policy development and local government toolkits. Discussed. Presentation by Commissioner Randall regarding a tool he created to review policies published by Austin’s peer cities. Discussed. Discussion regarding best practices for speaking to media and external bodies about common business, including the potential to develop special rules of procedure on this topic. Discussed. Proposal to add this item to the working group proposed in item 2. Discussion regarding topics discussed at a recent meeting between the Chair, Vice Chair, and Mayor’s office staff. Discussed. Discussion regarding how commissioners can promote and track the dates and times of events hosted by the City and Council Members. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 8. Approve the nomination of an Economic Prosperity Commission alternate representative to the Joint Sustainability Committee. The motion to approve Commissioner Zain Pleuthner as the Economic Prosperity Commission’s alternate Joint Sustainability Committee representative was approved on Chair Gonzales’ motion, Commissioner Nahas second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Zapata was absent. 2 FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Creation of a working group that discusses and presents best practices for policy development, commission principles, speaking to media, and commission efficacy. (Gonzales, Joshi) Creation of an event calendar with events hosted by the city and council members. (Gonzales, Nahas) Creation of a public statement from the commission highlighting individual commissioners’ thoughts on the previously passed recommendation …
City of Austin | Economic Prosperity Commission Impact Framework and Procedural Guidance January 21st, 2026 City of Austin | Economic Prosperity Commission Impact Framework and Procedural Guidance Executive Summary This document attempts to establish a clear, shared operating framework for the Austin Economic Prosperity Commission to improve consistency, effectiveness, and accountability in its policy work. The document attempts to define how the Commission measures success, how policy ideas should be developed from concept to Council-ready recommendation, and how potential initiatives are evaluated for impact, feasibility, and readiness. By articulating a North Star Metric and a standardized policy development process, the document is intended to support both new and tenured Commissioners in producing high- quality, actionable recommendations that are well-aligned with City priorities and capable of achieving necessary external buy-in. City of Austin | Economic Prosperity Commission Impact Framework and Procedural Guidance January 21st, 2026 Table of Contents I. II. III. IV. V. VI. VII. Context & Purpose of Document North Star Metric Definition Impact Assessment Framework Phased Policy Development Workflow Policy Recommendation Template Example Policy Recommendation Communications and Representation Guidelines City of Austin | Economic Prosperity Commission Impact Framework and Procedural Guidance January 21st, 2026 I. Context & Purpose of Document Situational Context: The Economic Prosperity Commission has benefited from the addition of new Commissioners that bring fresh perspectives and expertise. However, newer Commissioners have at times expressed difficulty orienting to the Commission’s core goals, the metrics that define Commission success, and the practical mechanics of forming an initial idea into a well-formed, Council-ready policy recommendation. Historically, the Commission has been unclear on how policy potential is assessed, how Commission success is measured, and how both internal and external policy alignment are achieved. Document Purpose: The purpose of this document is to provide a shared operating context for Commissioners. The document attempts to establish a clear North Star Metric for defining Commission output and success, and it lays out a standardized process for policy development, including a structured rubric for assessing the potential impact, feasibility, and readiness of policy initiatives. The intent is to improve clarity, consistency, and effectiveness across Commission work, while supporting Commissioners in their efforts to produce high-quality, actionable recommendations for City Council and adhering to Commission bylaws. City of Austin | Economic Prosperity Commission Impact Framework and Procedural Guidance January 21st, 2026 II. North Star Metric Definition Qualified Policy Proposals: The count of unique policy recommendation …
