Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Minutes July 15, 2025 Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Regular Meeting Minutes Tuesday, July 15, 2025 The Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at the City of Austin, Permitting and Development Center, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Sin called the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE: Seonhye “Sonny” Sin, Chair Zachary Dolling Hanna Huang Ahmed Moledina COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY: Padmini Jambulapati, Vice Chair Sarah Chen Alpha Shrestha Nayer Sikder Nirali Thakkar Kuo Yang PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission regular meeting on June 17, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of June 17, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Huang’s motion, Commissioner Thakkar’s second on a 8-0 vote. Commissioners Shrestha and Yang were off the dais. Commissioners Xiyi Chen, Easley, Li, Nguyễn, and Sha were absent. 1 Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Minutes July 15, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding Austin Police Department’s vision for the Asian American community in Austin with a data report about instances of hate crimes for Asian American community members. Briefing by Lisa Davis, Chief of Police, Austin Police Department. Briefing provided by Lisa Davis, Chief of Police, Austin Police Department. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 3. Updates from the Budget Community Engagement Working Group regarding the invite template of the upcoming Budget and Boba event. Update provided by Vice Chair Jambulapati. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. 5. Approve the 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review Report The motion to approve the 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review Report with amendments to strike 2023 and insert 2024, and strike Alpha Shrestha as primary Joint Inclusion Committee Representative and insert Nirali Thakkar as primary Joint Inclusion Committee Representative was approved on Commissioner Huang’s motion, Commissioner Dolling’s second on an 10-0 vote. Commissioners Xiyi Chen, Easley, Li, Nguyễn, and Sha were absent. Approve updates to the membership of current Working Groups including the AARC Working Group, Certifications and Awards Working Group, Food Security Working Group, City Manager’s Office Meeting Working Group, Budget Engagement Working Group, GraduAsian Graduation Event Working Group, and the Public Health and Safety Working Group. The motion to approve updates to the memberships of the AARC, City Manager’s Office …
HIV PLANNING COUNCIL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, JULY 15TH, 2025 The HIV PLANNING COUNCIL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE convened in a REGULAR meeting on TUESDAY, JULY 25TH 2025 at 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE in Austin, Texas. Kelle Martin called the HIV PLANNING COUNCIL EXECUTIVE MEETING to order at 5:05 p.m. Planning Council Members in Attendance: None. Planning Council Members in Attendance Remotely: Kelle’ Martin, Marquis Goodwin, Kristina McRae-Thompson, and Ashley Garling PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No speakers in attendance. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the HIV Planning Council regular meeting of the Executive Committee on May 20th, 2025 The minutes from the meeting of 05/20/2025 were approved as written on Ashley Garling motion, Kristina McRae-Thompson second on a vote of 4-0. For: Kelle Martin, Marquis Goodwin, Kristina McRae- Thompson, and Ashley Garling. Against: None. Abstain: None. Absent: None. CONFLICT OF INTEREST DECLARATIONS 2. Members will declare conflict of interest with relevant agenda items, service categories, and/or service standards. Marquis Goodwin - Medical Case Management, Health Insurance Premium Cost Sharing Assistance (HIPCSA), Non-Medical Case Management, Linguistic Services, Medical Transportation. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Introductions/Announcements Introductions and announcements given by Rashana Raggs. Two prospective members for the Planning Council. Ryan White Part A grant funds can no longer be used for travel for Board Members. Priority Setting and Resource Allocation meetings will take place in August. Needs and Barriers Town Hall to be held on July 16th. 4. Office of Support Staff Briefing Briefing given by Rashana Raggs. Refer to written report for further details. 5. Administrative Agent Staff Briefing Briefing given by Ken Martin. Refer to written report for further details. DISCUSSION ITEMS 6. Discussion of Member Reflectiveness Report Discussion led by Rashana Raggs. Refer to written report for further details. 7. Discussion of Member Attendance Report Discussion led by Rashana Raggs. All members are currently in good standing. Refer to written report for further details. 8. Discussion of Membership Retention Discussion led by Holly Bahamonde. Board members notified of potential recruitment events and tasked with brainstorming methods for member retention. Suggestions for committee meet ups at venues such as Pinstack, and changes of meeting times to aide member retention. COMMITTEE UPDATES 9. Care Strategies and Engagement Committee Updates given by Rashana Raggs. Refer to written report for further details. 10. Finance and Assessment Committee Updates given by Rashana Raggs. Refer to written report for further details. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS …
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, June 9, 2025 The BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT convened in a Regular meeting on Monday, June 9, 2025, at 301 West 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Jessica Cohen called the Board of Adjustment Meeting to order at 5:52 PM. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance in-Person: Jessica Cohen-Chair, Jeffery Bowen, Bianca A. Medina-Leal, Brian Poteet, Michael Von Ohlen, Corry L Archer-Mcclellan (Alternate) Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Melissa Hawthorne-Vice Chair, Thomas Ates (at 6:38pm), Yung-ju Kim, Maggie Shahrestani Board Members absent: Sameer S Birring, Niccolo A Sacco, Suzanne Valentine PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first (4) four speakers signed up/register prior (no later than noon the day before the meeting) 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. NONE PUBLIC HEARINGS Discussion and action on the following cases. Item02 C15-2025-0007 Postponement request by applicant APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Board of Adjustment meeting on May 12, 2025. On-Line Link: Draft Minutes for May 12, 2025 The minutes from the meeting May 12, 2025, were approved on Vice Chair Melissa Hawthorne, Board member Jeffery Bowen second, on 9-0 Vote (Board member Thomas Ates-late virtual due to technical issues). Previous Postponed Variance cases: 2. C15-2025-0007 Jay Hargrave for Hans Vaziri 601 Kinney Avenue On-Line Link: ITEM02 ADV PACKET PART1, PART2, NO PRESENTATION The applicant is requesting a variance(s) from the Land Development Code 25-2- 492 Site Development Regulations (Maximum Height Requirements) & Subchapter F: Residential Design and Compatibility Standards, Article 2, Development Standards Section 3.4.1 (Height) to increase the height on a flat roof from 32 feet (maximum allowed) to 42 feet (requested), in order to complete a remodel/addition to attach a bedroom to an existing single- family residence in an “SF-3”, Single- Family zoning district. NOTE: LDC 25-2 Land Development, Subchapter F: Residential Design and Compatibility Standards, Article 2: - Development Standards, Section 3.4.1 – Height. Height shall be measured vertically from the average of the highest and lowest grades adjacent to the building to: A. For a flat roof, the highest point of the coping; B. For a mansard roof, the deck line; C. For a pitched or hip roof, the gabled roof or dormer with the highest average height; or D. For other roof styles, the highest point of the building. Postponement request by …
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT SPECIAL CALLED MEETING – Training Session BOARDS AND COMMISSION ROOM 1101 MINUTES Monday, June 9, 2025 The BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT convened in a Special Called Meeting on Monday, June 9, 2005, at 301 West 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Jessica Cohen called the Board of Adjustment Meeting to order at 1:30 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance in-Person: Jessica Cohen-Chair, Jeffery Bowen, Bianca A. Medina-Leal, Michael Von Ohlen, Corry L Archer-Mcclellan (Alternate) Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Melissa Hawthorne-Vice Chair, Yung-ju Kim, Brian Poteet, Maggie Shahrestani Board Members absent: Thomas Ates, Sameer S Birring, Niccolo A Sacco, Suzanne Valentine Some members of the BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT may be participating by videoconference. No actions or votes will be taken. 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 email for elaine.ramirez@austintexas.gov or call 512-974-2202. remote participation by telephone. To remotely, register speak to TRAINING SESSION Board of Adjustment Deep Dive: Key Topics & Issues 1. Overview -Brent Lloyd (BOA) General Background • The history of BOAs & their role in zoning • Creation of Austin’s BOA • What BOAs do: Variances Special Exceptions Appeals Variances: Criteria for Approval & Other Considerations • What constitutes a “hardship”? • When is a property deprived of “reasonable use”? • What does it mean to alter “area character? • Variance conditions – what are they for and when are they appropriate? • New state legislation affecting BOA variance criteria? Special Exceptions • What are they, and how are they different from variances? • Austin’s use of special exceptions? Administrative Appeals • What’s an appeal, and how is it different than a variance or exception? • Considerations unique to appeals. 2. Issues Specific to Residential Review -Mike Peralta (Residential Review) • Subchapter F (Residential Design & Compatibility) • Special Exceptions • Other issues 3. Environmental & Lake Austin Issues -John Clement (WPD) • Lake Austin Regulations • Heritage Tree Issues • Related topics 4. Compatibility- Christine Barton-Holmes (LUR) 5. Boat Docks - Clarissa Davis (LUR) ADJOURNMENT 4:00 PM The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be …
BOA GENERAL REVIEW COVERSHEET CASE: C15-2025-0022 BOA DATE: Monday, July 14th, 2025 ADDRESS: 1102 Mason Ave OWNER: Andrew Sulski COUNCIL DISTRICT: 1 AGENT: N/A ZONING: SF-3-NP (MLK-183) LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 7 BLK D HARMONY HEIGHTS ADDN AMENDED VARIANCE REQUEST: increase the height from six (6) feet (maximum allowed) to eight feet seven inches (8’7”) (requested) along front property line (east) and nine feet six inches (9’ 6”) along interior side property line (south) SUMMARY: erect a fence ISSUES: sloped section that requires a retaining wall ZONING LAND USES Site North South East West SF-3-NP SF-3-NP SF-3-NP SF-3-NP SF-3-NP Single-Family Single-Family Single-Family Single-Family Single-Family NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANIZATIONS: Austin Independent School District Austin Neighborhoods Council Del Valle Community Coalition Non-profit East Austin Conservancy East MLK Combined Neighborhood Plan Contact Team Friends of Austin Neighborhoods Homeless Neighborhood Association Overton Family Committee Preservation Austin Reissig Homestead LLC Springdale-Airport Neighborhood Association ITEM02/1 June 17, 2025 Andrew Sulski 1102 Mason Ave Austin TX, 78721 Property Description: LOT 7 BLK D HARMONY HEIGHTS ADDN AMENDED Re: C15-2025-0022 Dear Andrew, Austin Energy (AE) has reviewed your application for the above referenced property, requesting that the Board of Adjustment consider a variance request from LDC Section 25-2-899 at 1102 Mason Avenue. that any proposed or Austin Energy does not oppose existing improvements follow Austin Energy’s Clearance & Safety Criteria, the National Electric Safety Code, and OSHA requirements. Any removal or relocation of existing facilities will be at the owner’s/applicant’s expense. the request, provided Please use this link to be advised of our clearance and safety requirements which are additional conditions of the above review action: https://library.municode.com/tx/austin/codes/utilities_criteria_manual?nodeId=S1AUENDECR_1 .10.0CLSARE If you require further information or have any questions regarding the above comments, please contact our office. Thank you for contacting Austin Energy. Rosemary Avila, Planning Officer Infrastructure Services | Austin Energy 4815 Mueller Blvd Austin, TX 78723 (512) 972-8488 Rosemary.avilla@austinenergy.com ITEM02/2 ITEM02/3 ITEM02/4 ITEM02/5 ITEM02/6 To: Board of Adjustment From: Andrew Sulski Property Address: 1102 Mason Ave, Austin TX 78721 Subject: Request for Variance to Complete Fence Construction Over Retaining Wall Dear Board Members, I am writing to request a variance that will allow me to complete the construction of a privacy fence on my property. I have recently built a retaining wall with a maximum height of 9’6” inches to stabilize a sloped portion of my yard and prevent erosion. My intention is to install a 6-foot privacy fence on top …
1102 Mason Ave Fence & Retaining Wall Privacy Variance Variance Case #: C15-2025-0022 Project Address: 1102 Mason Ave Austin, TX 78721 Presenter: Drew Sulski, Homeowner ITEM02/1-PRESENTATION Project Location North Overall Site Informaion: Address: 1102 Mason Ave, Austin, TX 78721 Height Range (Wall + Fence): 6’(NE Corner) to 9’6” (SW Corner) ITEM02/2-PRESENTATION Existing Lot Configuration: Zoning Information Details: Parcel ID: 0208181212 COA_FLOOD_ZONE: X PLACE_ID: 3082967 FULL_STREET_NAME: 1102 MASON AVE COA_FLOOD_ELEV_100 : N/A COA_FLOOD_ELEV_25: N/A COA_FLOOD_ZONE: X COUNTY_CODE: 453 EFFECTIVE_DATE: N/A FEMA_FLOOD_ZONE: X FIRM_BFE: N/A FIRM_PANEL: N/A PARCEL_ID: 0208181212 SOURCE_CITATION: N/A FIRM_COMMUNITY: 480624 COUNTY_CODE1: 453 APPRAISAL_DISTRICT: Travis Source: https://maps.austintexas.gov/floodpro/ Reason of Variance: Section 25-2-899 of the Land Development Code limits the height of a solid fence along a property line to an average of 6 feet and a maximum of 7 feet. A fence may exceed 6 feet in height only with the written consent of the adjoining property owner or with a variance approved by the Board of Adjustment. ITEM02/3-PRESENTATION Proposed Configuration: Goal of Proposed Configuration: Provide privacy and habitability for a steep grade ITEM02/4-PRESENTATION Proposed Configuration: Goal of Proposed Configuration: Provide privacy and habitability for a steep grade ITEM02/5-PRESENTATION
BOA Monthly Report July 2024-June 2025 June 9, 2025 Granted Postponed 0 0 Withdrawn 0 Denied 2 1. 25-2-492 Site Development Regulations (Maximum Height Requirements) & Subchapter F: Residential Design and Compatibility Standards, Article 2, Development Standards Section 3.4.1 (Height) to increase the height on a flat roof 2. 25-2-899 (Fences as Accessory Uses) to increase the height Discussion Items 1 JUNE 2025 Interpretations 0 new inquiries (Added jun9# 2025) The deposition of the case items: Granted Postponed Withdrawn Denied Discussion Items Board members absent: (3) Sameer S Birring, Niccolo A Sacco, Suzanne Valentine (1 vacant alternate position) 27 23 2 6 25 MAY 12, 2025 Granted 9 1. 25-10-130 (Commercial Sign District Regulations) (B) to allow from one (1) freestanding sign (maximum allowed), to adding additional freestanding signs 2. 25-6-471 (Off-Stret Parking) (B) to reduce the minimum on-site accessible space and 25-6-474 (Parking Facilities for Persons with Disabilities) (B) to reduce the minimum on-site accessible space. 3. Subchapter F: Residential Design and Compatibility Standards, Article 3: - Definitions and Measurement, Section 3.3 (Gross Floor Area), 3.3.3 (B) to exclude a habitable portion of a building that is below grade if the habitable portion does not extend beyond the first story footprint 4. 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from setback requirements to decrease the front yard setback 5. 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from: Lot size requirements from 10 acres and Lot width to decrease 6. 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from: setback requirements to decrease the minimum front yard setback and impervious coverage requirements to increase I.C. 7. 25-2-899 (Fences as Accessory Uses) to increase the height 8. #20050818-064, PART 7 (Residential District) (4) from: lot size requirements to decrease the minimum lot size 9. 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from impervious coverage requirements to increase I.C. Postponed 0 Withdrawn 1 1. 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations): Height Requirements to increase the height, Setback Requirements to decrease the minimum front yard setback, Setback Requirements to decrease the minimum rear yard setback, Building Coverage to increase, Impervious Coverage to increase and 25-2- 832 (Private Schools) (1) a site must be located on a street that has a paved width. Denied 0 Discussion Items 2 MAY 2025 Interpretations 0 new inquiries (Added MAY12# 2025) The deposition of the case items: Granted Postponed Withdrawn Denied Discussion Items Board members absent: (3) Thomas Ates, Niccolo A Sacco, Michael Von Ohlen (1 vacant alternate position) 27 23 2 4 …
REGULAR MEETING of the AUSTIN-TRAVIS COUNTY FOOD POLICY BOARD MONDAY, JULY 14, 2025, 6:00 PM CITY OF AUSTIN PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1406 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Austin Travis County Food Policy Board 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 Amanda Rohlich, 512-974-1364, Amanda.Rohlich@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Andrea Abel Lisa Barden, Vice-Chair Marissa Bell Mark Bethell Joi Chevalier, Chair Beth Corbett Nitza Cuevas Hilda Gutierrez Kacey Hanson Erin McDonald Natalie Poulos Matt Simon Andrew Smith AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Board member roll call and introduction of the new board member, Erin McDonald. 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 Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board Regular Meeting from Monday, June 9, 2025. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Briefing on Austin-Travis County Food Plan Implementation, Edwin Marty, Food Policy Manager at City of Austin and Yaira Robinson, Assistant Director of Environmental Programs at Travis County DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Presentation and discussion on Urban Programs from Travis County Extension Director, Maggie Moreno Johnson Discuss Board Member Advocacy Efforts Annual Internal Review Reminder Board discussion of Strategic Planning for next fiscal year Review Board Member Assignments DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM 8. Discuss and take possible action on a request for by-law amendment to update Travis County terms limits from 2 to 4 years FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Discussion and scheduling of future agenda items. ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Amanda Rohlich at Office of Sustainability, at 512-974-1364, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. …
Austin-Travis County Food Plan ATCFPB July 2025 – Staff Update City of Austin Food Plan Updates Food Plan Dashboard Now LIVE City Staff Report Back to Council ● City staff will provide another Memo to Council in October 2025 ● City staff will provide a summary of the Food Plan Memo to the CWEP (Climate, Water, Environment, and Parks) Council Committee in fall 2025 Implementation Collaborative ● City and County staff developed an Interlocal Agreement to support a Food Plan implementation collaborative (Strategy 9.1) ● On May 8th, City Council approved an RCA to negotiate a contract with the County ● On May 13th, Travis County Commissioners Court approved the ILA with the City ● City staff are developing an RFP for support of an implementation collaborative. Will be released in mid-2025. ● Consultant should be on-board in fall of 2025. Food Plan Implementation Convening ● First Food Plan Implementation Convening occurred on May 9th ● Considering additional options for summer 2025 ● Next Convening in fall of 2025 Food Plan - Relevant Budget Events ● City Manager presents proposed draft FY 2025/2026 budget to City Council on July 15th. ● City Council will discuss budget until August ● City County will vote on next year’s budget on August 13th Travis County Food Plan Updates Travis County FY26 Budget Development ● Week of July 28: Preliminary budget published ● August 13-15 and 18 if needed: Potential budget hearings ● September 2-5 and 8 if needed: Budget markup ● September 30: FY26 Budget adoption Thank You! Travis County Environmental Quality: Sustainability Programs www.austintexas.gov/food /austinsustainability
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board Recommendation Number: 20241021-xxx (XXX is the agenda item number): Recommended Changes to County Membership Terms in Bylaws WHEREAS, the Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board (ATCFPB) was formed to serve as an advisory body to the City Council and Travis County Commissioner's Court concerning the need to improve the availability of safe, nutritious, locally, and sustainably-grown food at reasonable prices for all residents; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin is committed to ensuring that every voice within the city is heard and valued and that all residents have equitable representation in their local government; and WHEREAS, according to the bylaws, board members appointed by the City Council serve four- year terms, while board members appointed by the Travis County Commissioners Court serve two-year terms, even though both City Council members and County Commissioners are elected for four-year terms; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that City Council approve a change to the Austin- Travis County Food Policy Board bylaws to increase the terms for board members appointed by the Travis County Commissioners Court to 4 years beginning February 1 of their appointed year. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
REGULAR MEETING of the BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT July 14, 2025 AT 5:30PM Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT 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 email for elaine.ramirez@austintexas.gov or call 512-974-2202. remote participation by telephone. To remotely, register speak to CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: ___Jessica Cohen (Chair) ___Melissa Hawthorne (Vice-Chair) ___Thomas Ates ___Jeffery Bowen ___Sameer S Birring ___Bianca A Medina-Leal ___Yung-ju Kim ___Brian Poteet ___Niccolo A Sacco ___Margaret Shahrestani ___Michael Von Ohlen ___Corry L Archer-Mcclellan (Alternate) ___Suzanne Valentine (Alternate) The Board of Adjustment may go into closed session to receive advice from legal counsel regarding any item on this agenda (Private consultation with legal counsel – Section 551.071 of the Texas Government Code). AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first (4) four speakers signed up/register prior (no later than noon the day before the meeting) 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 Board of Adjustment meetings on June 9, 2025. On-Line Link: Draft Minutes for June 9, 2025, Regular meeting and Draft Minutes for June 9, 2025, Special called meeting-Training session PUBLIC HEARINGS Discussion and action on the following cases. New Variance cases: 2. C15-2025-0022 Andrew Sulski 1102 Mason Avenue On-Line Link: ITEM02 ADV PACKET PART1, PART2; PRESENTATION The applicant is requesting the following variance(s) from the Land Development Code, Section 25-2-899 (Fences as Accessory Uses) to increase the height from six (6) feet (maximum allowed) to eight feet seven inches (8’7”) (requested) along front property line (east) and nine feet six inches (9’ 6”) along interior side property line (south), in order to erect a fence in a “SF-3-NP”, Single-Family-Neighborhood Plan zoning district (MLK-183 Neighborhood Plan). Note: The Land Development Code 25-2-899 Fences as Accessory Uses (A) Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, a fence: (1) is permitted as an accessory use in any zoning district; and (2) must comply with …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MUNICIPAL CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION MONDAY, JULY 14, 2025, AT 9:00 AM HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT, LEARNING AND RESEARCH CENTER 5202 E. BEN WHITE BLVD., SUITE 500, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78741 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 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 Matthew Chustz, (512)974-2859, Matthew.Chustz@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Kevin Mullen, Chair Kavita Gupta, Vice Chair Ayo Akande, Commissioner CALL TO ORDER Melissa Rogers, Commissioner John Umphress, Commissioner AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 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 March 24, 2025. PUBLIC HEARING 2. 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 Sean Fresch regarding their Discharge from the Watershed Protection Department. 3. Deliberate in open session or closed session, pursuant to 551.074 of the Texas Government Code (personnel exception), on the appeal filed by Sean Fresch regarding their Discharge from the Watershed Protection Department. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Action and approval on the appeal filed by Sean Fresch regarding their Discharge from the Watershed Protection Department. 5. Discussion and approval of the 2025 Municipal Civil Service Commission Annual Review and Report. 6. Discussion and action regarding the election of Vice Chair of the Municipal Civil Service Commission. 7. Discussion and action to approve future meeting dates, times, and locations. STAFF BRIEFING 8. Briefing from Human Resources Department staff regarding the …
2025 Municipal Civil Service Commission Regular Meeting Schedule January 13, 2025 July 14, 2025 January 27, 2025 February 10, 2025 February 24, 2025 March 10, 2025 March 24, 2025 April 14, 2025 April 28, 2025 May 12, 2025 June 9, 2025 June 23, 2025 July 28, 2025 August 11, 2025 August 25, 2025 September 8, 2025 September 22, 2025 October 13, 2025 October 27, 2025 November 17, 2025 December 8, 2025 MCS Commission Meeting Schedule approved on September 9, 2024.
MUNICIPAL CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION Monday, March 24, 2025 MEETING MINUTES MUNICIPAL CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION MINUTES REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, MARCH 24, 2025 The Municipal Civil Service Commission convened in a regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, March 24, 2025, at the Human Resources Department, Learning & Research Center (LRC) 5202 E. Ben White Blvd., Suite 500, Austin, TX 78741. Commissioners in Attendance: Kevin Mullen, Chair Kavita Gupta, Vice Chair Melissa Rogers John Umphress Commissioners Absent: Vacant Staff in Attendance: Susana Carbajal, Assistant City Manager Nathan Brown, Assistant Director, HRD Matthew Chustz, M&CS Manager, HRD Abby Varela, MCS Coordinator, HRD Sylvester Martin, Jr., MCS Coordinator, HRD Cyndi Gordon, CS Coordinator, HRD Meca Thompson, CS Coordinator, HRD Rogue Huitron, CS Coordinator, HRD Oscar Gonzales, IT Systems Admin., HRD CALL TO ORDER Chair Kevin Mullen called the Commission meeting to order at 9:10 AM. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes from the Municipal Civil Service Commission regular meeting on October 28, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of October 28, 2024, were approved on Vice Chair Gupta’s motion, Commissioner Umphress’ second on a 4-0 vote. 1 MUNICIPAL CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION Monday, March 24, 2025 MEETING MINUTES STAFF BRIEFING 2. Briefing from Human Resources Department Staff regarding the Municipal Civil Service Commissioner appointment process. Matthew Chustz, Municipal & Civil Service Manager with the Human Resources Department provided a briefing regarding the Municipal Civil Service Commissioner appointment process. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Discussion and possible action regarding the nomination of Chair of the Municipal Civil Service Commission to the Austin City Council Audit and Finance Committee. The motion to nominate Kevin Mullen as Chair of the Municipal Civil Service Commission to the Austin City Council Audit and Finance Committee was approved on Commissioner Umphress’ motion, Vice Chair Gupta’s second on a vote of 3-0-1, with Chair Mullen abstaining. 4. Discussion and action to approve future meeting dates, times, and locations. Discussion was held regarding future meeting dates, times, and locations. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Commissioner Rogers and Commissioner Umphress requested a future agenda item to discuss future meeting dates, times, and locations. ADJOURNMENT Chair Mullen adjourned the meeting at 9:25 AM without objection. 2
Annual Review and Work Plan Municipal Civil Service Commission – Reporting Period 7/1/2024 – 6/30/2025 Page # 1 Annual Internal Review This report covers the time period of 7/1/2024 to 6/30/2025 Municipal Civil Service Commission The Board/Commission mission statement is: The Municipal Civil Service (MCS) Commission is established and governed by City Charter Article IX (Personnel). The purpose of the Commission is to: 1. hear appeals and make final, binding decisions in the case of municipal civil service employees covered under Article IX of the City Charter who have been discharged, suspended, demoted, denied a promotion, or put on disciplinary probation; recommend the adoption of civil service rules after receipt of proposed rules by the Human Resources Director and perform services under the civil service rules as provided in Article IX, Section 2 of the City Charter; 2. 3. perform other duties regarding the municipal civil service, not inconsistent with Article IX of the 4. City Charter, that the City Council may require; issue subpoenas and subpoenas duces tecum to witnesses, whether at the request of interested parties or on its own motion, when reasonably necessary to obtain pertinent evidence at a hearing or investigation; 5. administer oaths to witnesses appearing at a hearing or investigation; and 6. conduct any investigations it may consider desirable or which it may be required by the City Council or the City Manager concerning the administration of municipal civil service and report its findings and recommendations to the City Council. Further information regarding the Municipal Civil Service Commission is found in § 2-1-164 of the Austin City Code, which states: (A) The Municipal Civil Service Commission is established and governed by City Charter Article IX (Personnel). The Charter provisions supersede this chapter to the extent of conflict. (B) The Council Audit and Finance Committee shall review applications received by the city clerk from persons seeking appointment as a commissioner. Notwithstanding § 2-1-4(C), the Audit and Finance Committee, or any council member, may nominate a person for appointment to the commission. (C) A city employee may not serve as a member of the commission. (D) The council shall designate the commission chair annually at the time new commissioners are appointed. (E) Subsection (A) of Section 2-1-43 (Meeting Requirements) does not apply to the Municipal Civil Service Commission. The commission may meet as necessary to carry out its duties under City Charter Article IX (Personnel). Source: …
Municipal Civil Service Contingent Hiring Pilot July 14, 2025 1 Purpose 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 focuses on positions that require no experience or where substitution for minimum experience is allowed. The MCS Commission requested a 6-month check-in after the pilot started on January 1, 2025. 2 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. 3 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 accommodation. Screened to meet minimum & preferred qualifications Contingent offer is made Complete any assessments required for the position. Successfully pass any required background checks. Submit an application 4 Pilot Successes Austin’s 14th Annual Career Expo Wednesday, April 2, 2025, Palmer Events Center 41 vacant positions were available 108 interviews conducted 40 contingent offers made Other Various Events 26 interviews conducted 9 contingent offers made 5 Questions? 6
Human Resources Department – Citywide Guideline – Contingent Offer at Hiring Events Effective: January 1, 2025 Approved by: ___________________________ Date: _____________ 12/26/2024 Susan Sinz, HR Director PURPOSE This pilot program will last twelve months and waive the posting requirement for hiring certain Citywide positions. It focuses on roles that require no experience or those where substitutions for minimum experience are allowed. The list of positions included in this pilot is in Attachment A. The program will be implemented at various qualifying events, including City, Community, and University Job Fairs, commercial driver license school graduations, reentry-initiative programs, and other talent acquisition efforts aimed at attracting new talent. Events, where contingent offers can be extended, will be advertised through City newsletters to ensure internal job seekers are aware and able to participate. All job seekers for open positions will participate in a modified interview process, during which they will be assessed on merit and fitness, as well as screened to verify they meet both the minimum and preferred qualifications. After a contingent offer is issued, successful individuals will then complete an application for the position. Job seekers will be required to complete any necessary assessments and, where appropriate, successfully pass background checks. GUIDELINES All departments are eligible to participate in this pilot program if they have titles included on the approved list. This process eliminates the posting requirement, as approved by the City Council on November 21, 2024, Item 60. However, the procedures below must still be adhered to in accordance with the Municipal Civil Service rules. Eligible Events Only events designed to recruit new talent may be used for this process. Examples include: City-sponsored job fairs University job events Reentry-initiative programs Community job events Once an event has been identified, it must be submitted to HRDCommunications@austintexas.gov to advertise in the Human Resources Department (HRD) and Citywide weekly newsletters. The same information should be shared in any department focused newsletters. All City-sponsored, community, or public events where contingent offers will be provided must be advertised to allow current employees and temporary employees the ability to participate. Departments participating in an event where they are recruiting new talent must pre-identify positions Event Preparation on Attachment A in their department that are vacant. Prior to the event, the Hiring Manager should work with their department's Human Resources (HR) staff to discuss the following: Identify target Job Title(s) and PCNs to be filled. 1. Pre-Event …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION July 14, 2025, 6:00 p.m. Austin City Hall, Room 1101 301 West 2nd St Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Animal Advisory 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 or in person, contact Christi Vitela at christi.vitela@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-2792. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Ryan Clinton, Travis County Nancy Nemer, Travis County Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Ann Linder, Vice Chair, D3 Dr. Paige Nilson, D4 Whitney Holt, D5 Jo Anne Norton, Parliamentarian, D7 Erin Ferguson, D8 Sarah Huddleston, D9 David Loignon, D10 Koby Ahmed, 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 Animal Advisory Commission Regular Meeting on April 14, 2025. 2. Approve the minutes of the Animal Advisory Commission Regular Meeting on June 9, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports provided by Rolando Fernandez, Interim Chief Animal Services Officer, Animal Services Office. 4. Staff briefing regarding the Animal Services Office’s hot weather protocol by Rolando Fernandez, Interim Chief Animal Services Officer, Animal Services Office. 5. Staff briefing regarding the Animal Services Office’s Three Year Public Relations Plan by Rolando Fernandez, Interim Chief Animal Services Officer, Animal Services Office. DISCUSSION ITEMS 6. Presentation by Stephanie Bilbro, Director of Operations, Austin Pets Alive! regarding license agreement reports. 7. Discussion of the Bond Election priorities as it relates to the delivery of animal services. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 8. Update from the Good Fix Marketing Working Group regarding their meetings and work completed so far. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 9. Community Cats Processing Working Group recommendation regarding animal welfare policies and budget priorities. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 10. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding animal welfare policies and budget priorities. 11. Conduct officer election for Chair. 12. Approve the Animal Advisory Commission 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review. 13. Approve the dissolution …
