REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE HISPANIC LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2026, 6:00 PM CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM #1101 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by remotely, contact Christi Vitela at christi.vitela@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2792. telephone. To to speak register CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Amanda Afifi, Chair Dulce Castañeda Andrea Flores Johanna Moya Fábregas Lyssette Galvan AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Yesenia Ramos, Vice Chair Brian Peña Jesús Perales Elizabeth Morales Melissa Ruiz The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on March 24, 2026. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion regarding the recently approved budget recommendations and next steps for them. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Conduct officer elections for Vice Chair 4. Conduct officer elections for Chair WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Update from the Arts and Culture Working Group regarding follow-up on a meeting with the the approved budget Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment about recommendations. 6. Update from the Immigration Working Group regarding meeting with Councilmember Velásquez. 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 Christi Vitela at the Austin City Clerk’s Office, at 512-974-2792 or christi.vitela@austintexas.gov, to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission, please contact Christi Vitela at 512-974-2792 or christi.vitela@austintexas.gov.
Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission March 24, 2026 HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, March 24, 2026 The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Ramos called the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Yesenia Ramos, Vice Chair Melissa Ruiz Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Amanda Afifi, Chair Dulce Castañeda Andrea Flores Lyssette Galvan Elizabeth Morales Jesús Perales PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Raquel Rivera Hector Ordaz Luis Ordaz APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on February 24, 2026. The minutes from the meeting on February 24, 2026 were approved on Commissioner Perales’ motion, Commissioner Castañeda’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Moya Fábregas and Peña were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Update on the Austin Equity and Inclusion Office’s Levers of Economic Mobility Index. Presentation by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr., Austin Equity and Inclusion, and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity and Inclusion. 1 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission March 24, 2026 The presentation was made by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr., Austin Equity and Inclusion, and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity and Inclusion. 3. Presentation by Communities in Schools of Central Texas regarding an economic mobility study and the impact of the organization on area students’ quality of life. The presentation was made by Analleli Lopez Tavera and Katy Ayala, parent participants in the Communities in Schools of Central Texas services. 4. Discussion regarding Austin Budget & Organizational Excellence questions for Boards and Commissions presented at the February JIC Meeting. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for Expanding Digital Literacy and Technology Career Pathways. The motion to approve the recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for Expanding Digital Literacy and Technology Career Pathways was approved on Commissioner Morales’ motion, Commissioner Flores’ second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Moya Fábregas and Peña were absent. 6. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for Supporting Maternal Services. The motion to approve the recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for Supporting Maternal Services was approved on …
Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission March 24, 2026 HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, March 24, 2026 The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at City Hall, 301 W 2nd St in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Ramos called the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Yesenia Ramos, Vice Chair Melissa Ruiz Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Amanda Afifi, Chair Dulce Castañeda Andrea Flores Lyssette Galvan Elizabeth Morales Jesús Perales PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Raquel Rivera Hector Ordaz Luis Ordaz APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Hispanic Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on February 24, 2026. The minutes from the meeting on February 24, 2026 were approved on Commissioner Perales’ motion, Commissioner Castañeda’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Moya Fábregas and Peña were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Update on the Austin Equity and Inclusion Office’s Levers of Economic Mobility Index. Presentation by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr., Austin Equity and Inclusion, and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity and Inclusion. 1 Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission March 24, 2026 The presentation was made by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr., Austin Equity and Inclusion, and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity and Inclusion. 3. Presentation by Communities in Schools of Central Texas regarding an economic mobility study and the impact of the organization on area students’ quality of life. The presentation was made by Analleli Lopez Tavera and Katy Ayala, parent participants in the Communities in Schools of Central Texas services. 4. Discussion regarding Austin Budget & Organizational Excellence questions for Boards and Commissions presented at the February JIC Meeting. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for Expanding Digital Literacy and Technology Career Pathways. The motion to approve the recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for Expanding Digital Literacy and Technology Career Pathways was approved on Commissioner Morales’ motion, Commissioner Flores’ second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Moya Fábregas and Peña were absent. 6. Approve a recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for Supporting Maternal Services. The motion to approve the recommendation to Council regarding the FY 2026-27 Budget for Supporting Maternal Services was approved on …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE URBAN FORESTRY COMMITTEE TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2026, AT 12:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1401 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Urban Forestry Committee 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 Nicole Corona, 512-974-3146, Nicole.Corona@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Richard Brimer, Chair Isabella Changsut Annie Fierro Justin Fleury Martin Luecke AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Urban Forestry Committee Regular Meeting on December 1, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. Staff briefing regarding an update on the Urban Forest Replenishment Fund. Presented by Emily King, Urban Forester, Management Services. Staff briefing regarding the Youth Forestry Council. Presented by Britney Huynh, Program Development Coordinator, Management Services. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Discussion of Windsor Park Neighborhood Association's Shade the Streets initiative. Presented by Commissioner Luecke. 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 Nicole Corona at Austin Watershed Protection, at 512-974-3146, Nicole.Corona@austintexas.gov to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Environmental Commission, please contact Nicole Corona at 512- 974-3146, Nicole.Corona@austintexas.gov.
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE COLLEGE STUDENT COMMISSION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2026, AT 3:00 P.M. CITY HALL, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 301 W 2ND ST AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the College Student 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, contact Abrianna Citta, 210-232-4773, abrianna.citta01@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Andrew Lyon, Chair, Austin Community College Elisha Mac Gregor, Austin Community College Sage Zuniga, Austin Community College Mekides Guta, Concordia University Lorian Lopez, Concordia University Aidyn Ogle, Concordia University Aidan Cournoyer, University of Texas at Austin Carson Domey, University of Texas at Austin Kritika Ramesh, University of Texas at Austin Caleb Brizuela, Vice Chair, Huston-Tillotson University Camila Colin, St. Edward’s University Caroline Schilling, St. Edward’s University AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the College Student Commission Regular meeting on March 6, 2026. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion on recommendations 20260306-002 and 20260306-003 updates. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. 4. Approve a recommendation to Council on Student Housing Needs. Conduct officer elections for Chair and Vice Chair. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 5. 6. 7. Update from TRANSPORTATION working group on their priorities. Update from MENTAL HEALTH working group on their priorities. Update from HOUSING working group on their work around student housing availability. 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 Dr. Chiquita Eugene at the Youth Initiatives Office, at chiquita.eugene@austintexas.gov or (512-972- 5003) to request service or for additional information. For more information on the College Student Commission, please contact Dr. Chiquita Eugene at (512-972-5003).
COLLEGE STUDENT COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Friday, March 6, 2026 COLLEGE STUDENT COMMISSION MINUTES REGULAR MEETING FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2026 The College Student Commission convened in a Regular meeting on 6, March, 2026, at 301 W 2nd St in Austin, Texas. Chair Lyon called the College Student Commission Meeting to order at 3:09 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Andrew Lyon, Carson Domey, Mekides Guta, Sage Zuniga Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Aidan Cournoyer, Lorian Lopez, Elisha MacGregor, Caroline Schilling PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the College Student Commission Regular Meeting on January 9, 2026 The minutes from the College Student Commission regular meeting on January 9, 2026 were approved on Commissioner Domey’s motion, Commissioner Zuniga’s second on a 8- 0 vote. Commissioners Brizuela, Colin, Ogle, and Ramesh were absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. 3. Approve a recommendation to Council on 6th Street Micromobility Lanes. The motion to approve the recommendation to Council to improve 6th Street micromobility lanes was approved on Commissioner Zuniga’s motion, Commissioner Guta’s second on a 8-0 vote. Commissioners Brizuela, Colin, Ogle, and Ramesh were absent. Approve a recommendation to Council on the UNO (University Neighborhood Overlay) Amendments and Student Housing. The motion to approve the recommendation to Council approve UNO updates and conduct a Citywide Student Housing Needs Assessment was approved on Commissioner Domey’s motion, Commissioner Guta’s second on a 8-0 vote. Commissioners Brizuela, Colin, Ogle, and Ramesh were absent. 1 COLLEGE STUDENT COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Friday, March 6, 2026 WORKING GROUP UPDATES Update from Transportation working group regarding their priorities. The update was given by Chair Lyon. Update from Mental Health working group regarding their priorities. The update was given by Chair Lyon. Update from Housing working on their work around student housing availability. The update was given by Chair Lyon. Chair Lyon adjourned the meeting at 3:33 p.m. without objection. 2
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL College Student Commission Recommendation Number 20260428-003: UNO Amendments and Student Housing WHEREAS, the City of Austin both historically and in the present day continues to have a young college student population that is greater than or equal to approximately 100,000 students; and WHEREAS, housing affordability has become an increasingly significant challenge for college students across the City of Austin, particularly for the majority of students at major Austin-area colleges and universities, including the University of Texas at Austin, Austin Community College, St. Edward’s University, Huston-Tillotson University, and Concordia University Texas, who, due to limited on-campus housing capacity, rely on the private rental market for housing during the academic year; and WHEREAS, 48% of renters in District 9, including the area of West Campus, are “rent-burdened,” where a tenant spends more than 30% of their monthly income on housing; and WHEREAS, students attending institutions located near central Austin, including The University of Texas at Austin, Huston-Tillotson University, and Austin Community College’s Highland and Rio Grande campuses, face additional heightened housing pressures due to rising rents, limited supply, and competition with non-student renters; and WHEREAS, student-oriented rental housing in Austin has experienced substantial rent increases in recent years, disproportionately impacting students who rely on fixed financial aid packages, part-time employment, or family support; and WHEREAS, the University Neighborhood Overlay (UNO) area, particularly West Campus, experiences uniquely intense housing demand due to its proximity to The University of Texas at Austin, resulting in rental prices that significantly exceed the Austin citywide median and serve as a benchmark for influencing student housing costs more broadly; and WHEREAS, rising rents in central Austin neighborhoods have contributed to the displacement of students attending institutions without large on-campus housing availability, including Austin Community College and Huston-Tillotson University, forcing many students to seek housing farther from campus and increasing transportation costs and commute times; and WHEREAS, students at smaller and private institutions such as St. Edward’s University and Concordia University Texas face similar affordability pressures, as limited on-campus housing availability and surrounding neighborhood zoning constraints restrict access to lower-cost off-campus options; and WHEREAS, these affordability challenges affect students across institutional types, including community colleges, public universities, and private universities, demonstrating that student housing insecurity is a citywide issue not confined to a single campus or neighborhood; and WHEREAS, land-use and zoning policies such as the University Neighborhood Overlay play a critical role in shaping housing …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE 2026 BOND ELECTION ADVISORY TASK FORCE MONDAY, April 27, 2026, AT 2:00 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, ROOM 1101 301 WEST SECOND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the 2026 Bond Election Advisory Task Force may be participating by video conference. 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 Nicole Hernandez, 512-974-7644, nicole.hernandez@austintexas.gov. CURRENT MEMBERS: Mary Hager, Chair Ana Aguirre Nicole Conley Richard DePalma Robert Fiedler Donald Jackson Noelita Lugo Luke Metzger Kenneth Standley Ben Suddaby Heyden Walker Frances Jordan, Vice Chair Tina Cannon Charles Curry JC Dwyer Jeremiah Hendricks Andrew Kogler Garry Merritt Katrina Miller Rachel Stone David Sullivan Kaiba White 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 2026 Bond Election Advisory Task Force Regular Called meeting April 13, 2026. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. Discussion of the revised and updated Working Group recommendations. Discussion of the Policy recommendations to be included in the Bond Election Advisory Task Force final recommendation. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. 5. 6. Approve the revised and updated Working Group recommendations. Approve the Policy recommendations to be included in the Bond Election Advisory Task Force final recommendation. Approve revisions to 2026 Bond Election Advisory Task Force Work Plan. 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 Nicole Hernandez at Austin Capital Delivery Services Department, at 512-974-7644 and nicole.hernandez@austintexas.gov, to request service or for additional information. For more information on the 2026 Bond Election Advisory Task Force, please contact Nicole Hernandez at 512-974-7644 or nicole.hernandez@austintexas.gov.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD APRIL 27, 2026 – 6:00 PM CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS, ROOM 1001 301 W. 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Parks and Recreation Board 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, click here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/g/n6jqzWj5fv or call or email Tim Dombeck, (512) 974-6716, Tim.Dombeck@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Stephanie Bazan (D-5), Chair Kathryn Flowers (D-4), Vice Chair Shelby Orme (D-1) Pedro Villalobos (D-2) Nicole Merritt (D-3) Luai Abou-Emara (D-6) Diane Kearns-Osterweil (D-7) Kim Taylor (D-8) AGENDA Jennifer Franklin (D-9) Ted Eubanks (D-10) Lane Becker (Mayor) 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 Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of March 23, 2026. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for the Austin Watershed Protection salamander team. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) Presenter(s): Nathan Bendik, Conservation Program Supervisor, Austin Watershed Protection. Presentation, discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council that the Parks and Recreation Board supports the Gus Garcia District Park Vision Plan. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) Presenter(s): Charles Mabry, Project Manager, Austin Parks and Recreation. Presentation, discussion, and approve recommendations to the Austin City Council regarding the proposed 2026 General Obligation Bond. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) Presenter(s): Alyssa Tharrett, Project Management Supervisor and Liana Kallivoka, Assistant Director, Austin Parks and Recreation. Page 1 of 2 5. 6. 7. Discussion and approve an amendment to the Parks and Recreation Board by-laws to remove the Contracts and Concessions Committee. (Sponsors: Bazan, Becker) Discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council that City staff should conduct community engagement related to Perry Park prior to renewing the park use agreement with North Austin Soccer Alliance. (Sponsors: Eubanks, Abou-Emara) Conduct officer elections for Chair and Vice Chair of the Parks and Recreation Board. STAFF BRIEFINGS 8. 9. …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES MARCH 23, 2026 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MARCH 23, 2026 The PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD convened in a REGULAR meeting on MARCH 23, 2026 at 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Bazan called the PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Stephanie Bazan, Lane Becker Ted Eubanks, Diane Kearns- Osterweil, Nicole Merritt, Pedro Villalobos. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Kathryn Flowers (joined at 9:09 p.m.), Jennifer Franklin. Board Members Absent: Luai Abou-Emara, Shelby Orme, Kim Taylor. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Monica Guzman - GAVA Teresa Rivera – Splash Pad at Gus Garcia Rec Center Kayla Reese - APF Holly Reed - TTC Concerns Robin Tsang - Perry Park Soccer Issues Ozias Tsang - Perry Park Soccer Issues Jude Tsang - Perry Park Soccer Issues Carson Buckner - Bridge Lacrosse Mark May - TTC Concerns Patrick Ywong - Leash Laws APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of February 23, 2026. The motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of February 23, 2026 was approved on Board Member Villalobos’ motion, Board Merritt’s second on a 7-0 vote. Vice Chair Flowers, Board Members Abou-Emara, Orme and Taylor absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for the Austin Parks and Recreation Land Management Team. Page 1 of 4 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES MARCH 23, 2026 Matt McCaw, Environmental Conservation Program Manager; Amanda Ross, Natural Resources Division Manager; and Jodi Jay, Assistant Director, Austin Parks and Recreation gave a presentation and answered questions on gas powered equipment, prescribed burns, prickly poppy, biodiversity in natural lands, land management tools, cave collaboration committee, The motion to approve letters of support for the Austin Parks and Recreation Land Management Team was approved on Board Member Villalobos’ motion, Board Merritt’s second on a 7-0 vote. Vice Chair Flowers, Board Members Abou-Emara, Orme and Taylor absent. 3. Presentation, discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council to approve 15,368 sq. ft. of permanent Transmission Line use within parkland at Edward Rendon Sr. Metro Park at Festival Beach. Total Mitigation to be paid by Austin Energy is $2,414,240. Dave Tomczyszyn, Vice President of Electrical System Engineering and Mac Kammerer, Public Information and Marketing Program Manager, Austin Energy gave a presentation …
Salamander Conservation Program Austin Watershed Protection Nathan F. Bendik Conservation Program Supervisor Jollyville Plateau Salamander Edwards Aquifer (northern) Barton Springs Salamander Barton Springs Salamander Barton Springs Austin Blind Salamander Contributing zone Edwards Aquifer (Barton Springs recharge zone) Barton Springs Pool Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) • Describes conservation measures that mitigate and minimize harm to federally protected salamanders • Requirement of City’s federal permit; allows us to operate Barton Springs Pool (endangered species habitat) • Implemented in 1998; renewed in 2013 • Permit expires in 2033 (City will likely renew) Figure 1. Location of the four major springs of the Barton Springs group. Upper Barton Spring Eliza Spring Old Mill/Sunken Garden Spring Major Elements of HCP • Habitat protection (e.g., limited pool drawdowns) • Habitat management (water level adjustments, sediment removal) • Assurance colony (Austin Salamander Conservation Center) • Habitat restoration (Eliza Spring Daylighting, Sunken Garden) • Population monitoring and research (are we meeting biological goals of HCP?) • Barton Springs Zone Spill Response Plan • Conservation Fund Pool drawdown after flood intact pipe work area gravel placed after removal Captive Breeding Population • Austin Salamander Conservation Center • Refugium populations to preserve gene diversity in case extinct in wild Before After Habitat restoration: Eliza Daylighting in 2017 “stream” “pool” Eliza survey Underwater view 1997 salamander survey crew First stream salamanders Added smaller substrate Daylit stream starts flowing Questions/comments Nathan.Bendik@austintexas.gov 512-974-2040
Gustavo "Gus" L. Garcia District Park Vision Plan Parks and Recreation Board Meeting Request for Recommendation on Approval Austin Parks and Recreation | April 27, 2026 Presented By: Charles Mabry, Project Manager Gus Garcia Park Today Located at 1201 E. Rundberg Site Character 47-acre District Park Site slopes down to Little Walnut Creek Wooded Floodplain Current Amenities 20,000sf Recreation Center Playground, Fitness Equipment Picnic Pavilion Two Multi-Use Fields Community Garden Lighted Basketball Court Granite Trails Fiskville Cemetery Dobie Middle School 2 Existing Draft Vision Plan Existing Draft Vision Plan Developed in 2008 Coincided with the Development of the Recreation Center Not Formally Approved Why Update Document Current Park Amenities Update Future Amenities Communicate Proposed Future Improvements Bond, Grant Opportunities Opportunity for Community Feedback Formal Approval by APR 3 Vision Plan Development Process Summer 2025 – Develop New Draft Plan Review Historical Community Feedback Review Current Park Amenities October 2025 – Community Engagement Round 1 October 2025 – Develop Final Draft Vision Plan Late October - November 2025 – Community Engagement Round 2 Spring 2026 – Approve Vision Plan 4 Community Feedback Round 1 Survey – October 2025 Display Board at Recreation Center Saturday Pop-up Event Meeting with Advisory Board 48 Survey Responses “Nature trails, aquatic facilities, volleyball courts would be a huge asset to the neighborhood.” “Great variety of facilities” Round 2 Survey – October - November 2025 Updated Display Board at Recreation Center Presentation at Halloween Event 33 Comment Cards “I like it all and hope it will be completely done as proposed.” “I propose a (sic) amazing dog park for both small & Big (sic) dogs with dog fountain” 5 Draft Final Vision Plan Plan Changes Expanded Formal and Nature Trails (1, 10) Relocated Sports Courts (2) Relocated Aquatic Center (3) Relocated Amphitheater (4) Relocated Sand Volleyball Courts (5) Expanded Picnic Areas (6) Added Multi-Use Field (7) Relocated Dog Off-Leash Area (8) New Senior Center Wing (9) Preserve Woodland and Floodplain 6 Action Request Recommendation on the approval of the Gustavo ‘Gus’ L. Garcia District Park Vision Plan. Next Steps Director Approval of the …
2026 Bond Program Update Austin Parks and Recreation | April 27, 2026 Liana Kallivoka, PhD, PE, LEED Fellow, Assistant Director Alyssa Tharrett, RA, NCARB, Project Management Supervisor Bond Election Advisory Task Force (BEATF) Schedule We Are Here August 2025 September 2025 October 2025 November 2025 December 2025 January 2026 February 2026 March 2026 April 2026 Departments Present to Working Groups BEATF Mtg 8.25.25 Scoring Matrix Shared with BEATF & Departments BEATF Mtg 9.22.25 BEATF Mtg 10.27.25 BEATF led Listening Sessions BEATF Mtg 11.17.25 City Matrix scores provided GIS Map BEATF Mtg 12.15.25 Working Group Closed Meetings Bond Capacity Update Phase III Survey Staff Initial Proposal 2 BEATF Mtgs 1.12.26 1.26.26 Working Groups Present to BEATF Phase III Open House Events BEATF Mtgs 2.9.26 2.23.26 BEATF Mtgs 3.9.26 3.23.26 BEATF Mtg 4.13.26 4.27.26 BEATF recommen- dation to Mayor and City Council 5.4.26 2 $410 million bond package recommended Parkland Acquisition 2025 Key Milestones July 31, 2025 Memo to Mayor and Council with Initial Project Request List – 2026 Bond Development Update for Parks and Recreation projects $3.87 billion total city bond package recommendation August thru December 2025 Internal Project Review Board reviewed and prioritized citywide bond projects / programs Austin Parks and Recreation presented to Bond Election Advisory Task Force (BEATF) Parkland and Open Space Working Group Austin Parks and Recreation Bond Proposition July 31, 2025 APR Staff Bond Recommendation Building Renovation and Replacements Recreation and Senior Center Improvements Parkland Infrastructure Aquatics Parkland Improvements $85M $100M $55M $40M $60M $70M TOTAL $410M 3 2026 Key Milestones January 14, 2026 Financial Services recommends a maximum $750M 2026 bond package at the Audit and Finance Committee January 21, 2026 Memo to Mayor and Council with 2026 Bond Initial Draft Staff Project Recommendation $140 million bond package recommended for Parks and Recreation projects $700 million total city bond package recommendation Austin Parks and Recreation Bond Proposition Jan. 21, 2026 (CDS) Staff Initial Recommendation Building Renovation and Replacements Parkland Acquisition Recreation and Senior Center Improvements Parkland Infrastructure Aquatics Parkland Improvements $55M $40M $10M $5M $15M $15M TOTAL $140M 4 2026 Key Milestones February 17 thru 28, 2026 Five community open house events and bond survey; summary: Prioritize Improving Existing Infrastructure Over Building New Parks, recreation, and cultural facilities have the largest share of feedback and consistent support …
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 BYLAWS OF THE Parks and Recreation Board ARTICLE 1. NAME. The name of the board is Parks & Recreation Board. ARTICLE 2. PURPOSE AND DUTIES. The purpose and duties of the board are as follows: (A) The board shall advise city council and the city manager regarding: the acquisition, development, improvement, equipment, programming, and maintenance of all land and facilities managed by the Parks and Recreation Department of the City of Austin; the purchase of additional land be managed by the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department. (B) The board shall outline a general plan of development for land, facilities, and programs. The board may submit the plan to the Planning Commission and the City Manager for detail development, and the City Manager may then submit the plan to the City Council for approval as may be required by Code. (C) The board shall promote close cooperation between the City and all private members of the public, institutions, and agencies interested in or conducting recreational activities, so that all recreational resources within the City may be coordinated to secure the greatest general public welfare. (D) The board shall perform other duties as prescribed by the City Code or as directed by the City Council. ARTICLE 3. MEMBERSHIP. (A) The board is composed of eleven members appointed by the city council. (B) A member serves at the pleasure of the city council. (C) Board members serve for a term of four years beginning March 1st on the year of appointment. (D) An individual board member may not act in an official capacity or speak on behalf of the board except through the action of a majority of the board in which the board identifies who is authorized to speak and identifies the actions the individual board member is authorized to take or topics on which the individual board member is entitled to speak. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 …
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 BYLAWS OF THE Parks and Recreation Board ARTICLE 1. NAME. The name of the board is Parks & Recreation Board. ARTICLE 2. PURPOSE AND DUTIES. The purpose and duties of the board are as follows: (A) The board shall advise city council and the city manager regarding: the acquisition, development, improvement, equipment, programming, and maintenance of all land and facilities managed by the Parks and Recreation Department of the City of Austin; the purchase of additional land be managed by the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department. (B) The board shall outline a general plan of development for land, facilities, and programs. The board may submit the plan to the Planning Commission and the City Manager for detail development, and the City Manager may then submit the plan to the City Council for approval as may be required by Code. (C) The board shall promote close cooperation between the City and all private members of the public, institutions, and agencies interested in or conducting recreational activities, so that all recreational resources within the City may be coordinated to secure the greatest general public welfare. (D) The board shall perform other duties as prescribed by the City Code or as directed by the City Council. ARTICLE 3. MEMBERSHIP. (A) The board is composed of eleven members appointed by the city council. (B) A member serves at the pleasure of the city council. (C) Board members serve for a term of four years beginning March 1st on the year of appointment. (D) An individual board member may not act in an official capacity or speak on behalf of the board except through the action of a majority of the board in which the board identifies who is authorized to speak and identifies the actions the individual board member is authorized to take or topics on which the individual board member is entitled to speak. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 …
Community PARKnerships FY25 Update Austin Parks and Recreation | 4.27.2026 Collage photo credits left to right: The Trail Conservancy (TTC), Pease Park Conservancy, TTC, Austin Parks Foundation (APF), City of Austin, Downtown Austin Alliance, Zilker Botanical Garden Conservancy, APF Policy direction | Parks and Recreation Community PARKnerships Program Council Adopted Austin Parks and Recreation Long Range Plan | 2020 Partners included in 20+ sub-strategies across all 5 citywide strategies Sub-strategy E.5: Develop a clear organizational framework for APR partnerships that is equitable, supportive of APR's mission and goals, and is regularly evaluated to track and monitor impacts and outcomes. City Council Resolution No. 20200312-041 | 2020 Work with parks nonprofit partners to create opportunities for partnership agreements that benefit the community and to outline roles and responsibilities between those groups and APR City Council Resolution No. 20241121-072 | 2024 Explore additional funding strategies for APR, including Public/Private Partnerships (PPPs) and expanding the Community PARKnerships Program City Manager FY26 Priority Goal | 2026 Explore revenue generating funding alternatives in order to secure long-term funding strategies that reduce sole reliance on the general fund to close existing funding gaps in operating and capital functions. Photo credits left to right: Fruitful Commons, The Trail Conservancy, City of Austin (of 4ATX Foundation activity) 2 Community PARKnerships approach Support partners and community in navigating City processes Streamline partner intake, communication, and ensure consistency in approach Ensure compliance with City requirements, procedures, and oversight Align partnerships with City plans, priorities, and Council direction Facilitate cross-department and partner collaboration Track, measure, and communicate impact Recognize and amplify community efforts Promote a culture of collaboration, transparency, and shared stewardship of public spaces 3 Austin PARKners framework PARKner Resource Library Monthly PARKner News newsletter Required safety and City policy trainings Optional Lunch & Learn’s Photo credits left to right: City of Austin, Erika Rich for TreeFolks, Austin Parks Foundation, 4ATX Foundation 4 Types of PARKnership agreements MOU: Memorandum of Understanding Ex: Ecology Action Partnership B agreement Ex: Fruitful Commons (in draft – current PIMA) PIA: Parkland Improvement Agreement Ex: Mile Zero Trailhead with Hill Country Conservancy POMA: Park Operations and Maintenance Agreements Ex: The Trail Conservancy Not PARKnerships agreements Event contracts Service contracts Ex: TreeFolks contracts …
Appendix - Resolution No. 20241121-072 Non-profit Report “An annual report…that includes the following: A list of existing public-private partnership or PARKnership agreements, as well as the status of any partnerships or agreements under negotiation.” Managed by Community PARKnerships Partner Organization Agreement(s) & Contract(s) Parkland Location(s) Austin Parks Foundation - Partner adheres to City standards and processes for any activities on public land - Partnership B agreement in discussion - Multiple PIAs in development (EastLink Trail, Onion Creek All Abilities Playground) Various Austin Ridge Riders Mountain Bike Club - MOU with APR - Partner adheres to City standards and processes for any activities on public land Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park, others Barton Springs Conservancy - Agreement to provide additional funding for bathhouse restoration (including donor recognition) and to carry out stewardship activities - Partner adheres to City standards and processes for any activities on public land Barton Springs Municipal Pool City Parks Alliance MOU for the 2026 Greater & Greener Conference Downtown Austin Parks (Downtown Austin Alliance) - Partner adheres to City standards and processes for any activities on public land - Republic Square Agreement - Multiple PIAs in development (EastLink Trail, Onion Creek All Abilities Playground, West Austin Park Overlook) N/A Various Ecology Action - MOU with APR - Partner adheres to City standards and processes for any activities on public land Roy G Guerrero Activity Notes Education Ecological restoration Infrastructure Programming Stewardship Programming Stewardship Infrastructure Fund Development Stewardship National Park Advocacy and Support Education Ecological restoration Infrastructure Programming Stewardship Ecological restoration Stewardship 1 Appendix - Resolution No. 20241121-072 Non-profit Report Managed by Community PARKnerships Partner Organization Agreement(s) & Contract(s) Fruitful Commons - PIA for Phase 2 of Festival Beach Food Forest executed 2025 - Partnership B agreement in development Parkland Location(s) Activity Notes Festival Beach Food Forest (Edward Rendon Sr. Park at Festival Beach), Grand Meadow Neighborhood Park, others Community agriculture Ecological restoration Programming Stewardship Hill Country Conservancy - 2012 MOU for design, construction, and stewardship of the VCT (prior to 2021 policy) - 2024 PIA for Mile Zero Trailhead of VCT in Zilker Park Violet Crown Trail, others Keep Austin Beautiful - None with APR; partner adheres to City standards and processes for any activities on public land - Service contracts with Austin Resource Recovery and Austin Watershed Protection Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics MOU with APR Pease Park Conservancy 2023 Park Operations and Maintenance …
Community PARKnerships FY25 Year in Review Collage photo credits (left to right): 1. Courtesy of The Trail Conservancy (TTC) | 2. Courtesy of Pease Park Conservancy | 3. By Limelight Imaging, courtesy of Limelight Imaging and TTC | 4. Courtesy of Austin Parks Foundation (APF) | 6. Courtesy of Downtown Austin Alliance | 7. Courtesy of Zilker Botanical Garden Conservancy | 8. Courtesy of APF Community PARKnerships brings Austin Parks and Recreation and community together to improve and celebrate Austin parks. The program cultivates partnerships with community groups, nonprofits, City of Austin departments, and other organizations that share Austin Parks and Recreation’s values and goals. Opportunities to steward and propose improvements to parks empower the community to actively participate in their development and care. When Austin Parks and Recreation teams up with these park advocates, we can do more for Austin parks. Together, we expand access to nature and recreation spaces, enrich the experience of park visitors, and take better care of parks. APR’s fiscal year 2025 (FY25) ran October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2025. 2 Table of Contents Alignment with City Plans ............................................................................................................................................... 4 Interdepartmental Partnerships ................................................................................................................................... 7 Awards & Recognition ........................................................................................................................................................ 8 Integrating Racial Equity ................................................................................................................................................ 10 Austin PARKners ..................................................................................................................................................................12 PARKner Program Resources .................................................................................................................................. 13 Partnership A | Partnerships for Public Purpose ......................................................................................... 17 Partnership B | Project & Program Partnerships ........................................................................................ 36 Partnership C | Community Stewardship ....................................................................................................... 38 Partnership D | Emerging or One-Time Partnerships............................................................................... 40 Community Activated Park Project (CAPP) Program .....................................................................................41 CAPP Collaborators ..................................................................................................................................................... 42 CAPP Implementation Highlights ........................................................................................................................ 44 Adopt-A-Park Program .................................................................................................................................................. 46 Community Stewardship of Parkland .................................................................................................................... 47 It’s My Park Day ............................................................................................................................................................. 49 Parkland Stewardship Plans .................................................................................................................................. 50 School Parks ........................................................................................................................................................................ 53 School Modernization and Joint-Interest Campuses.............................................................................. 53 Leave No Trace - Pet Waste & Off-Leash Campaign ............................................................................... 54 Nature Play ............................................................................................................................................................................ 55 Infrastructure .................................................................................................................................................................. 55 Policy + Procedures ..................................................................................................................................................... 56 Education + Training .................................................................................................................................................... 56 Material Procurement ................................................................................................................................................. 57 Programming + Park Activation ........................................................................................................................... 58 Cities Connecting Children to Nature (CCCN) .................................................................................................. 60 Green School Parks .......................................................................................................................................................61 Nature Play, Emerging Green Leaders (EGL) ................................................................................ 65 OLE (Outdoor Learning Environments) Austin ............................................................................................. 63 Nature Smart Libraries .............................................................................................................................................. 64 Special Projects .................................................................................................................................................................. 65 wkrm | Volunteer Coordination Project ........................................................................................................... 65 Trust for Public Land | Park Stewardship Learning Cohort ................................................................. 66 Design Workshop Foundation | Community Capacity Building Initiative .................................... 66 PARKnership Pop-Ups ................................................................................................................................................ 67 City Parks Alliance | Greater & …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20260427-3 Date: April 27, 2026 Subject: Gus Garcia District Park Vision Plan Motioned By: Kathryn Flowers Seconded By: Luai Abou-Emara Recommendation The Parks and Recreation Board recommends approval of the Gus Garcia District Park Master Plan as presented. Vote: 10-0 For: Stephanie Bazan, Kathryn Flowers, Luai Abou-Emara, Lane Becker, Ted Eubanks, Jennifer Franklin, Diane Kearns-Osterweil, Nicole Merritt, Shelby Orme, Pedro Villalobos. Against: None. Abstain: None. Absent: Kim Taylor. Attest: Tim Dombeck, Board and Council Liaison, Austin Parks and Recreation.
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20260427-4 Date: April 27, 2026 Subject: 2026 Bond Program Recommendation for Austin Parks and Recreation Motioned By: Pedro Villalobos Seconded By: Kathryn Flowers Recommendation WHEREAS, bond programs are a primary source of capital funding for Austin Parks and Recreation (APR) projects, including pool replacements, land acquisition, new park development, recreation and senior centers, and other capital improvements; WHEREAS, the most recent parks-focused bond proposition was Proposition C in 2018, which provided $149 million for parks in 2018, and the anticipated 2024 bond cycle was delayed; WHEREAS, APR has substantially assigned and spent its 2018 bond funding, while maintaining only modest contingency funds for urgent failures that may arise before new bond funds could be received if a 2026 bond is approved by voters; WHEREAS, APR staff conducted a department-wide capital needs exercise that identified approximately $1.4 billion in capital improvement needs, and staff subsequently developed a supportable proposal of approximately $410 million based on departmental capacity, urgency, and market conditions; WHEREAS, current citywide bond discussions contemplate a total bond package substantially below that amount, including scenarios around $750 million total citywide, requiring APR needs to be scaled accordingly; WHEREAS, APR staff have outlined multiple funding scenarios between $140 and $250 million dollars, where lower-dollar scenarios largely fund emergency repairs, critical system failures, and limited high-priority projects rather than meaningful expansion of park and recreation assets; WHEREAS, lower-dollar scenarios are also burdened by the potential need to fund the Central Maintenance Complex, estimated at roughly $50 million to $80 million, due in part to uncertainty related to the Oracle land swap and the adequacy of replacement maintenance facilities; WHEREAS, the City’s aquatics system includes multiple pools that have reached or exceeded their expected useful life, and at least two facilities were already identified as critical failures in the 2018 aquatics assessment, and under lower-funded bond scenarios the Department would be limited largely to emergency responses rather than proactive replacement, increasing the risk of pool failures and extended closures before construction funding is available; WHEREAS, a funding level of $250 million would allow the Department to move beyond emergency stabilization and support critical projects across the parks system, including senior centers, recreation facilities, aquatics, neighborhood and district parks, trails, electrification, and parkland acquisition; THEREFORE, the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Board (PARB) recommends that Austin City Council should: 1 of 3 1. Advance a 2026 bond …
To: Parks and Recreation Board Members MEMORANDUM Through: Jesús Aguirre, MBA, CPRE, Director, Austin Parks and Recreation From: Liana Kallivoka, PhD, PE, LEED Fellow, Assistant Director Alyssa Tharrett, RA, NCARB, Project Management Supervisor Austin Parks and Recreation Date: April 27, 2026 Subject: Austin Parks and Recreation 2026 Bond Update The purpose of this memorandum is to provide an update on Austin Parks and Recreation’s 2026 general obligation bond development process since the previous memorandum to the Parks and Recreation Board sent on August 4, 2025 and provide updated staff recommendations. On July 31, 2025, the City issued a memorandum with each department’s preliminary ranked program / project recommendations for the 2026 Bond. This preliminary list included all city department included a $410 million recommendation for the parks and recreation 2026 bond programs as outlined in the table below. totaling $3.87 billion, which recommendations July 31, 2025 Parks and Recreation Recommendations Bond Program Building Renovation and Replacement Program Amount $85 million Parkland Acquisition Program $100 million Recreation and Senior Center Improvements Program Infrastructure $55 million $40 million Description Funding for renovation/rehabilitation or replacement of APR maintenance facilities and assets. Funding for the acquisition of land, such as destination parks in park-deficient areas, greenways and corridors for increased trail connectivity. Funding for renovations and rehabilitations to existing APR senior and recreation centers and assets. Funding for improvements to playscapes, trails, parking lots, roadways, athletic fields and facilities, and City cemeteries. Date: Subject: April 27, 2026 Austin Parks and Recreation 2026 Bond Update Aquatics $60 million Parkland Improvements $70 million $410 million Funding for renovations and rehabilitations to existing City pools. Funding for development of existing City parks, greenbelts, or the downtown squares. TOTAL Throughout the fall of 2025, Austin Parks and Recreation presented details, including example projects, for each bond program recommendation to the Bond Election Advisory Task Force (BEATF) Parkland and Open Space Working Group. These included presentations on parkland improvement and infrastructure programs, building renovation / replacement, recreation and senior center improvements, aquatics programs, and parkland acquisitions. Bond Process Update and Initial Staff (Capital Delivery Services) Recommendations: On January 21, 2026, a memorandum to Mayor and Council was issued to provide an initial staff draft recommendation for the 2026 bond. As outlined in the memo, work performed throughout the fall and winter of 2025 included a public input process, Bond Election Advisory Task Force (BEATF) listening sessions, and the development …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION YYYYMMDD-XXX Date: Subject: 2026 Bond Program Recommendation for Austin Parks and Recreation Motioned By: Recommendation Seconded By: WHEREAS, bond programs are a primary source of capital funding for Austin Parks and Recreation (APR) projects, including pool replacements, land acquisition, new park development, recreation and senior centers, and other capital improvements; WHEREAS, the most recent parks-focused bond proposition was Proposition C in 2018, which provided $149 million for parks in 2018, and the anticipated 2024 bond cycle was delayed; WHEREAS, APR has substantially assigned and spent its 2018 bond funding, while maintaining only modest contingency funds for urgent failures that may arise before new bond funds could be received if a 2026 bond is approved by voters; WHEREAS, APR staff conducted a department-wide capital needs exercise that identified approximately $1.4 billion in capital improvement needs, and staff subsequently developed a supportable proposal of approximately $410 million based on departmental capacity, urgency, and market conditions; WHEREAS, current citywide bond discussions contemplate a total bond package substantially below that amount, including scenarios around $750 million total citywide, requiring APR needs to be scaled accordingly; WHEREAS, APR staff have outlined multiple funding scenarios between $140 and $250 million dollars, where lower-dollar scenarios largely fund emergency repairs, critical system failures, and limited high-priority projects rather than meaningful expansion of park and recreation assets; WHEREAS, lower-dollar scenarios are also burdened by the potential need to fund the Central Maintenance Complex, estimated at roughly $50 million to $80 million, due in part to uncertainty related to the Oracle land swap and the adequacy of replacement maintenance facilities; WHEREAS, the City’s aquatics system includes multiple pools that have reached or exceeded their expected useful life, and at least two facilities were already identified as critical failures in the 2018 aquatics assessment, and under lower-funded bond scenarios the Department would be limited largely to emergency responses rather than proactive replacement, increasing the risk of pool failures and extended closures before construction funding is available; WHEREAS, a funding level of $250 million would allow the Department to move beyond emergency stabilization and support critical projects across the parks system, including senior centers, recreation facilities, aquatics, neighborhood and district parks, trails, electrification, and parkland acquisition; 1 of 3 THEREFORE, the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Board (PARB) recommends that Austin City Council should: 1. Advance a 2026 bond program that includes a strong and clearly …
AUSTIN PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR’S UPDATE April 2026 Recreation Services Division Athletics - Ballfield Upgrades The APR Athletics Office has replaced eight scoreboards at the Krieg and Havins softball fields. Therapeutic Recreation – Art in the Park The 30th Annual Art in the Park at Fiesta Gardens, held on April 9th in collaboration with Art Spark Texas, welcomed over 1,000 individuals with disabilities. Community Initiatives – Teens in Leadership Training The TILT (Teen in Leadership Training) graduation was held on April 16th at the Doris Miller Auditorium. We celebrated 20 teens (15-18 years of age) successfully completing the program. Community Initiatives – Soap Box Derby Totally Cool Totally Art hosted their first annual Soap Box Derby Race Event on Saturday, April 18th at Turner Roberts Recreation Center. 10 Recreation Centers and their teens took part in the program and got to build from scratch a life size soap box derby car and race them in this event. Community Recreation Division Hancock Recreation Center’s Robotics Club: 11 participants meet weekly to create with Cubelets Smart Blocks, learning real engineering and problem-solving skills. They create MazeBots to tackle tricky courses, StoryBots that act out their own stories, and RaceBots that zoom through obstacles to compete against friends. The program is all about helping students feel proud of what they build, all while learning and having fun! Delores Duffie Recreation Center April 15, Delores Duffie Recreation Center hosts its second year of Jackie Robinson Day – Hit, Pitch, Run Challenge. Over 70 participants pay tribute to Jackie Robinson and his contributions to America’s Favorite Past Time by exploring the key elements of baseball. The East Side High softball and baseball players volunteer to help run the younger aged participants through some warm ups. Natural Resources Division Park Ranger Program – Year-to-Date Contact Counts • 11,874 citizen contacts • 20,595 programming contacts • 202 hours of programming Park Ranger Program – Summer Operations • Preparation underway for expanded summer park operations with Cadets and Seasonal/Temporary staff during peak times for Memorial Day through Labor Day. Aquatic Division Aquatic Maintenance Continues preparing facilities for the season, completing motor repairs at the Bailey, Eastwoods, and Clarksville splash pads. Canyon Vista, Mabel Davis, Martin, Walnut Creek, and Garrison pools are now filled. Barton Springs The pool successfully reopened after the skimmer project. Staff are finalizing plans with the Austin Nature and Science Center for the Greater and …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MONDAY, APRIL 27, 2026, AT 6 P.M. PLEASANT HILL BRANCH LIBRARY 211 EAST WILLIAM CANNON 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. Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Elizabeth Hansen Andrea Herrera Moreno Holly Sabiston CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Pamela Carlile Sara Gore Melissah Hasdorff Lorrie Ann Mitchel Edward Selig AGENDA CALL TO ORDER 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 Library Commission regular meeting on March 23, 2026. DISCUSSION 2. Presentation by Authors Against Book Bans and The Library Foundation regarding Austin becoming a Book Safe Harbor. Presentation by Liz Garton Scanion, Children’s Author and leadership member of Authors Against Book Bans, and Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair. STAFF BRIEFINGS 4. Staff briefing on April 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.
Library Commission Meeting Minutes March 23, 2026 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, March 23, 2026 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, February 23, 2026, at the Central Library in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:08 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Andrea Herrera Moreno Holly Sabiston Edward Selig Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Sara Gore Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair Pamela Carlile Melissah Hasdorff Lorrie Mitchell Commissioners Absent: None PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None Library Commission Meeting Minutes March 23, 2026 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on February 23, 2026. The February 23, 2026, minutes were approved on a motion by Commissioner Gururaj, seconded by Commissioners Selig, Sabiston and Vice Chair Mehta. The motion passed on a 10-0 vote. DISCUSSION 2. Discussion on the updates to the Library Commission Bylaws. The Commission discussed the updates to the Library Commission Bylaws. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM 3. Approval of a recommendation supporting Austin Public Library’s FY27 budget. A motion to approve the recommendation to council to support Austin Public Library's FY27 budget with continued and sufficient funding to ensure equity across all branches and support service enhancements was approved on Commissioner Selig’s motion, Commissioner Sabiston’s second on a 10-0 vote. STAFF BRIEFING 4. Staff briefing on the February APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Director of Libraries. The briefing was presented by Hannah Terrell, Director of Libraries. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Elections Book Safe Harbor Collaborations ADJOURNMENT Chair Infante Huerta adjourned the meeting at 7:44 p.m. without objection.
Austin as a Book Safe Harbor: Honoring Where We’ve Come From, Where We’re Going and What We Stand For L I B R A R Y C O M M I S S I O N M E E T I N G – A P R I L 2 7 , 2 0 2 6 Tonight’s Proposal 1 Introducing the Team 2 Introducing the Concept 3 Why This Matters! 4 Why Now? 5 What’s Next? Book sanctuaries (or “safe harbors”) are a proactive way to demonstrateour values as a community! Book Safe Harbors: Offer proactive protections for books and readers Reaffirm existing principles & policies of the library by enshrining them in local ordinances Protect collections, budgets and staff time Counter book bans and censorship Why This Matters! Current legislation threatens access to books Book banning has been normalized Kids aren’t seeing themselves or each other in books Literacy rates are declining Librarians need our support! Intellectual freedoms are worth standing up for Why Now? (Why Not?!) Letʼs ask the City of Austin to join us in celebrating APLʼs century-long tradition of serving readers and protecting the right to read! 1 Work with City of Austin stakeholders to create a Book Safe Harbor that’s rooted in APL’s policies and traditions 2 Aim toward October’s APL Centennial Celebration 3 Publicize and celebrate well beyond October! What’s Next? The 1st Amendment isnʼt the only way to keep books accessible to all who need them. We can continue the good work of APL into the next century by making Austin a Book Safe Harbor. Thoughts & Questions? Thank You!
Highlights & Updates Report Hannah Terrell, Director of Libraries April 2026 Public Services Highlights AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY APL Public Programming Highlights Highlights Wikicurious: The History of Austin Wikicurious – The History of Austin, Texas took place on Monday, March 9, from 1–5 p.m., hosted by Wikimedia NYC and the Austin Public Library’s Central Library during SXSW EDU. The community editing event welcomed both new and experienced Wikipedia editors to collaborate on improving articles related to Austin’s history. Experts from the Austin History Center shared insights on archiving, research methods, and local artifacts, while Austin Typewriters Ink. provided vintage typewriters and historical context. The program aligned with Wikipedia’s 25th anniversary and APL’s Centennial Celebrations. Central Texas Learning Festival at Milwood Branch Austin Public Library partnered with the Austin Japan Community (AJC) to host a cultural program at Milwood Branch on Saturday, March 14 as part of the Central Texas Learning Festival, welcoming 232 community participants. The event provided hands-on opportunities for families and visitors to explore elements of Japanese culture, including traditional toys, calligraphy, origami, and Yukata dressing in collaboration with Kimono Mosaique. The program highlighted the Library’s ongoing commitment to cultural learning and community partnerships that bring diverse educational experiences to Austin residents. 3 AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY APL Public Programming Highlights Centennial Planning Updates During the weekend of April 4–5, the Austin Public Library participated in the third annual Austin Book Trail. The event aligned with the launch of the Centennial Library Card Art Contest, which invited current APL cardholders within our service area to submit original designs in three categories: Child (ages 0–12): “The Library’s 100th Birthday Party”; Teen (ages 13–17): “Austin Public Library’s Next Century”; and Adult (18+): “Inspiring All to Discover, Learn, and Create.” One winning design will be selected per age group. This was APL Shop’s first year taking part in the Book Trail. The shop was open on Saturday only and closed Sunday. To mark the occasion, staff distributed free limited‑edition stickers to anyone who requested one, no purchase necessary, limited to one per person. Trail maps were also available for visitors throughout the day, as well as the APL Adventure Book. Special Events Updates The Central Library Special Events hosted 12 events in March 2026, with an estimated total attendance of 2,199. Event types included 9 rentals (one spanning four days), 2 co‑sponsorships, 1 internal event, and 1 film/photo request. • Co‑sponsorships: – Texas …
Book Safe Harbor Presenta(cid:415)on and FAQs Library Commission Mee(cid:415)ng, 4/27/2026 What IS a Book Safe Harbor (or Book Sanctuary City)? A municipal, physical and/or digital space that ac(cid:415)vely protects the right to read and ensures access to banned or challenged books. • The movement started in Chicago. • Harris County established the first Book Sanctuary in Texas! • The Book Sanctuary movement is on fire in New Jersey. What are the goals of a Book Safe Harbor? • Reaffirming the policies and principles of the library • Protec(cid:415)ng “endangered” books and keeping them accessible • Providing community educa(cid:415)on around book banning and intellectual freedoms • Suppor(cid:415)ng library collec(cid:415)ons, staff and budgets What Steps Do We Need to Take to Make Aus(cid:415)n a Book Safe Harbor? • Connect with City stakeholders (such as Council members or representa(cid:415)ves and the Human Rights Commission) • Dra(cid:332) an ordinance to explicitly include the principles of the library, including protec(cid:415)ng intellectual freedom, open access and a collec(cid:415)on that serves every reader • Create ac(cid:415)on items and (cid:415)meline with an October 2026 goal to coincide with APL’s centennial celebra(cid:415)on • Work with the Library Founda(cid:415)on around displays, presenta(cid:415)ons, promo materials, and more.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION MONDAY, APRIL 27, 2026, 6:00 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, ROOM 1101 301 W. 2ND ST AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Human Rights Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Ryan Sperling at ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov or 512-974-3568 CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Kolby Duhon, Chair (He/They) Muneeb “Meebs” Aslam (He/Him) Morgan Davis (He/Him) George Jambor Harriett Kirsh Pozen Tannya Oliva Martínez Mindy Morgan Avitia Lila Igram Mariana Krueger (She/Her) Maryam Khawar AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on March 23, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the status of Autin Equity & Inclusion initiatives on hate crimes. Briefing by Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director of Austin Equity and Inclusion and Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Austin Equity & Inclusion. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. 4. Discussion regarding a potential intergovernmental committee on hate crimes, and possible approval of the formation of a working group to provide recommendations on a framework. Conduct officer elections for Chair and Vice Chair. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Update from the Human Rights Resource Guide Working Group regarding the first draft of the guide. 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 Human Rights Commission, please contact Ryan Sperling at 512-974- 3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov.
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION MINUTES REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, MARCH 23, 2026 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, March 23, 2026 at 301 W. 2nd St., Boards & Commissions Room, in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon (Chair) Gabriella Zeidan (Vice Chair) Harriett Kirsh Pozen Mariana Krueger Tannya Oliva Martinez Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Meebs Aslam Morgan Davis Mindy Morgan Avitia PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on February 23, 2026. The minutes were approved on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Commissioner Kirsh Pozen’s second on a 6-0 vote. Vice Chair Zeidan and Commissioner Aslam were off the dais. Commissioners Igram and Khawar were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding an update on the Levers of Economic Mobility Index. Presentation by Gary Aaron, Business Process Consultant Sr., and Shivani Datar, Business Process Specialist, Austin Equity & Inclusion. Presentation by Gary and Shivani. 1 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Approve a recommendation for the FY2026-27 Budget for Health Equity and Healthcare Access. Withdrawn without objection. Approve a recommendation on strengthening and formalizing funding, staffing, reporting, and commission engagement for the City’s Anti-Hate infrastructure during the upcoming budget cycle. There was a motion by Commissioner Krueger, seconded by Commissioner Aslam, to amend the recommendation to insert “through resolution number 20101118-059” in the second WHEREAS. The amendment was accepted without objection. There was a motion by Commissioner Krueger, seconded by Commissioner Aslam, to strike “quarterly” and insert “biannual” in the 6th “BE IT RESOLVED”. The amendment was accepted without objection. There was a motion by Commissioner Krueger, seconded by Commissioner Aslam, to insert “prevention and” before “response” in the second “BE IT RESOLVED”. The amendment was accepted without objection. There was a motion by Commissioner Morgan Avitia, seconded by Commissioner Aslam, to strike “merely” and insert “only” in the final “BE IT RESOLVED”. The amendment was accepted without objection. The recommendation on strengthening and formalizing funding, staffing, reporting, and commission engagement for the City’s Anti-Hate infrastructure during the upcoming budget cycle was approved as amended on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Commissioner Kirsh Pozen’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Igram and Khawar were absent. Approve a recommendation to support youth transitioning out of foster care through housing stability, targeted services, and legislative …
We All Belong/ Anti-Hate Austin Equity and Inclusion Human Rights Commission Monday, April 27, 2026, 6:00 PM Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director of Austin Equity and Inclusion Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer We All Belong The We All Belong Campaign aligns City efforts with the specific needs and lived experiences of impacted communities. Council Resolution 20250704-122 moved We All Belong under the leadership of Austin Equity and Inclusion's - Human Rights Division to ensure stronger alignment and coordination with campaign messaging and goals. This seven-page resolution identified an expanded campaign including: • Intergovernmental Committee on Hate Crimes • Hate Crimes Web Portal • Community Engagement and Notification Program • Training and Protocols • Data and Transparency Timeline to Date Council Resolution 20250704-122 *Resolution formally transferred to Austin Equity and Inclusion on October 01, 2025 July 2025 – April 27, 2026 • Community Engagement and Feedback: AEI met and continues to meet with stakeholders focused on anti- hate efforts, community leaders, City Commissions, City Council, Travis County partners and City of Austin leadership, agencies and departments surrounding the action items listed in Resolution. Intergovernmental Committee: AEI and City leadership has met with various members of the intergovernmental committee (members assigned by Resolution). First formal meeting to be held May 6, 2026 • • Anti- Hate Body: To assess the potential design of a City-led anti-hate body, AEI reviewed peer city best practices, models recommended by stakeholders (such as SAART), Commission recommendations surrounding anti-hate, feedback from stakeholders, and conducted a survey for community feedback. Updates on all components of the Resolution were detailed in the following memorandums set forth by City Manager’s Officer to City Council: • October 8, 2025 • April 27, 2026 Anti-Hate Resolution and Human Rights Commission Council Resolution 20250704-122 • AEI researched recommendations previously made by the Human Rights Commission (HRC), the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission, and Joint Inclusion Committee. The review found strong alignment with the HRC’s existing charter and responsibilities. • The HRC’s charter assigns responsibilities that closely align with the duties outlined in the resolution. • Sharing best practices on hate crime prevention and response aligns with the HRC’s role in advising on discrimination issues and supporting intergroup relations training. • Analyzing hate crime data and trends aligns with the HRC’s responsibility to conduct research and gather information regarding the treatment of protected groups. • Providing intergovernmental recommendations reflects the HRC’s authority to …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE HIV PLANNING COUNCIL MONDAY APRIL 27TH 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, Secretary Drew Kyler, Treasurer Joe Anderson Jr. Alicia Alston Liza Bailey Katherine Brandhuber Aran Belani Henry Chan Jeremy Caballero Kyle Murphy AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up no later than noon on 4/24/2026 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 March 23rd, 2026. 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. Integrated Plan updates presentation given by Holly Bahamonde and Leanna Cortinas 8. Fast Track Cities (FTC) and Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE) presentation given by Michelle Osorio 9. Discussion of directives and directive funding 10. Discussion of budget updates a. Equipment b. Conference travel 11. Discussion of rapid reallocations DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 12. Discussion and approval of renewal for Judith Hassan 13. Discussion and approval of new applicant a. Deondre Moore 14. Discussion and approval of moving Full Council meeting on May 25th due to Memorial Day COMMITTEE UPDATES 15. Care Strategies and Engagement Committee 16. Finance and Assessment Committee FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 17. 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 …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE DESIGN COMMISSION MONDAY, APRIL 27, 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 video conference. 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 Chad Sharrard at 512- 974-8333 or chad.sharrard@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 March 23rd, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. Staff briefing regarding the Barton Springs Road Bridge. Presented by Eric Bailey, Austin Capital Delivery Services. Sponsors: Chair Salinas and Commissioner Carroll. Staff briefing regarding Downtown Density Bonus Phase I Updates. Presented by Alan Pani, Austin Planning. Sponsors: Vice Chair Meiners and Commissioner Howard. 4. Staff briefing regarding the inclusion of West Campus into the Downtown area. Presented by Shanisha Johnson, Austin Planning. Sponsors: Chair Salinas and Vice Chair Meiners. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. 6. 7. Discussion and action to recommend to City Council whether the project Fiesta Gardens, located at 2101 Jesse E. Segovia St., complies with the City Design and Sustainability Standards. Presented by Clayton Korte and Travis Greig of Clayton Korte. Conduct officer elections for Design Commission Chair and Vice Chair. Discussion and action to appoint a member of the Design Commission to serve as the Commission’s representative on the Downtown Commission. Sponsors: Chair Salinas and Vice Chair Meiners. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS City Code requires at least two board members sponsor an item to be included on an agenda. This section of the agenda provides members an opportunity to request items for future agendas. Staff should assume that if there is no objection from other …
To: From: Date: MEMORANDUM City of Austin Design Commission Jon Salinas – Chair Josue Meiners – Vice Chair Eric Bailey, Capital Delivery Services Deputy Director April 21, 2026 Subject: Barton Springs Road Bridge Design Commission Withdraw The purpose of this memorandum is to withdraw Item 2 (Staff briefing regarding the Barton Springs Road Bridge) from the 4/27/26 Design Commission agenda. Background and Context On December 14, 2023, after an extensive public outreach and preliminary engineering process, City Council directed Capital Delivery Services Staff to proceed with the replacement alternative for the Barton Springs Road Bridge. Since 2023, staff advanced the design and permitting of the new structure and was awarded a $32 million Federal Bridge Improvement Program grant for construction. The grant requires the project undertake the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process in addition to the regular City permitting process which requires review from several boards and commissions, including the Design Commission. Unfortunately staff is unable to present at the 4/27/26 Design Commission due to a scheduling conflict. Next Steps Staff requests a postponement of the staff briefing to the May 18, 2026 Design Commission meeting. Staff will return to the Design Commission as the NEPA process continues with input from federal agencies and public comment. Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact Eric Bailey, Deputy Director of Austin Capital Delivery Services, at Eric.Bailey@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-7713. cc: Chad Sharrard, Design Commission Liason
DRAFT C20-2024-018 DDB Phase I Downtown Density Bonus Urban Design Standards These standards would apply only to projects seeking Downtown Density Bonus entitlements and are intended to implement public realm and pedestrian environment objectives that currently apply under §25-2-586. In order to participate in the proposed Downtown Density Bonus (DDB) program, projects would be required to adhere to all mandatory design standards and a minimum number of additional urban design standards from a menu of options. For Phase I of the Downtown Density Bonus update, the proposed requirements would be: - Projects zoned –DDB400 must adhere to all mandatory standards and at least 7 out of the 14 menu standards to participate in the DDB program - Projects zoned –DDB850 must adhere to all mandatory standards and least 10 out of the 14 menu standards to participate in the DDB program In future phases of the Downtown Density Bonus program update, additional combining districts may be created that have different requirements for the minimum number of urban design standards that must be met. Additionally, subdistricts may be created that provide additional urban design standards or requirements based on the unique character of specific areas (such as the Red River Cultural District). Additional design standards may be added in the future. If additional design standards are added to the menu, the minimum number of standards that must be met may be modified. The Urban Design team in Austin Planning will review site plans and determine compliance with the urban design standards. Mandatory Urban Design Standards Screening Requirements (A) Utility equipment, mechanical equipment, and solid waste collection areas, including loading docks, truck parking, outdoor storage, trash collection, trash compaction, and other service functions: a. are prohibited in the area between a building and a street; b. must not be visible from a street, adjacent property lines, or the property lines across adjacent public streets; and c. must be screened or located in a public alley. (B) This subsection applies to a site with frontage on an alley 20 feet or more wide. DRAFT C20-2024-018 DDB Phase I a. A transformer room or utility vault must be adjacent to and accessible from the alley, unless Austin Energy determines placement is required in another location. b. A pump room, sprinkler room, or other utility or mechanical room must be adjacent to and accessible from the alley unless the Fire Chief determines that placing the …
Downtown Density Bonus Phase 1 – Proposal Austin Planning | Design Commission | 04/27/2026 Agenda • • • Background Existing Program & Process Proposed Changes • Urban Design Standards • Community Benefits | • Downtown Density Bonus Process • Stakeholder Engagement and Timeline 2 Background City Council Resolution Downtown Density Bonus Update Resolution No. 20240718-185 in July 2024 directed staff to update the Downtown Density Bonus (DDB) program Requested: Updates to gatekeeper requirements Integration of Rainey subdistrict Creation of new subdistricts Prioritization of accessibility and shade opportunities Simplification of the affordability program Alignment of the program with the Equitable Transit-Oriented Development (ETOD) overlay. Downtown Density Bonus – Phase 1 In response to Senate Bill 840, Council adopted Ordinance No. 20251023-063, which amended the Central Business District Zone and directed staff to update the DDB program by June 2026 for three DDB subdistricts 4 Existing Program & Process Phase 1 - Existing Height & FAR Map After the recent adoption of the Central Business District Zone amendments and updates to the DDB, the three subdistricts in Phase 1 have the following entitlements available via the DDB program: Core Subdistrict – 350ft of height and 25:1 FAR* Rainey Subdistrict – 350ft of height and 15:1 FAR* Convention Center Subdistrict – 350ft of height and 15:1 FAR* Applicants can request Council approval to exceed these entitlements *FAR limits are only applicable to commercial developments 6 Proposed Changes Phase I – Proposed Applicability Revised to remove the Red River Cultural District from Phase I To be updated and included in Phase II of the DDB Update DDB is a voluntary program Supersedes the following overlays: Capitol Dominance Overlay Equitable Transit-Oriented Development Density Bonus Waterfront Overlay 8 Phase I – Combining Districts Each combining district will have different entitlements/requirements. Phase I will create 2 combining districts: DDB400 has +400 ft DDB850 has +850 ft Additional height is additive to the property’s base zoning height limit E.g., a CBD-DDB400 site could build up to 750 ft (350 ft base height + 400 bonus ft) Sites will be rezoned into DDB400 in Phase I. Sites will be eligible to request rezoning into DDB850 through the standard rezoning process. Max height cannot be exceeded by Council approval. …
April 20, 2026 Chad Sharrard City of Austin Planning – Urban Design Via email: chad.sharrard@austintexas.gov RE: Fiesta Gardens Design Commission Presentation Dear Chad, The Fiesta Gardens Complex Rehabilitation Project was originally scheduled for the April 27th meeting of the CoA Design Commission. Due to the extra time needed to revamp the presentation for a five-year-old project, and additional time required by for a proper review by PARD staff, the project team has requested a postponement until the next Design Commission meeting on May 18th. Sincerely, Travis Greig, AIA Project Manager 1 of 1
