REGULAR MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD FEBRUARY 26, 2024 – 6:00 PM CITY HALL 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. For remote participation, registration must be completed no later than noon the day before the meeting. To register to speak, click here: https://forms.office.com/g/0E6sDvjENu or call or email Tim Dombeck, (512) 974- 6716, Tim.Dombeck@austintexas.gov. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and may be allowed up to three (3) minutes to provide their comments. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Pedro Villalobos (D-2), Chair Kathryn Flowers (D-4), Vice Chair Shelby Orme (D-1) Nicole Merritt (D-3) Stephanie Bazan (D-5) Lisa Hugman (D-6) Julie Hayes (D-7) Kim Taylor (D-8) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Jennifer Franklin (D-9) Holly Reed (D-10) Lane Becker (Mayor) 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 meetings of January 22, 2024. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and possible action regarding letters of support for the Parks and Recreation Department Nature Programs Team. Presenter(s): Amanda Ross, Natural Resources Division Manager, Parks and Recreation Department. Presentation, discussion and possible action regarding a recommendation to Austin City Council to approve an ordinance to amend Title 25 related to the environmental protections at the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. (PARD Long Range Strategies: Urban Public Spaces, Park Access for All). Presenter(s): Leslie Lilly, Environmental Program Coordinator, Watershed Protection Department. Presentation, discussion and possible action regarding a recommendation to Austin City Council to approve the permanent use of an existing Park and Recreation easement adjacent to the Wildhorse Ranch PUD #10. Total Mitigation is $6,282. Presenter(s): Bryan Golden, Capital Improvement Program Manager, Transportation and Public Works Department. Page 1 of 2 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Presentation, discussion and possible action regarding a recommendation to Austin City Council related to an application received by the City to rename the Barton Springs Bathhouse to the Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse at Barton Springs Pool. Presenter(s): Kimberly McNeeley, Parks and …
Butler Trail Code Amendment Leslie Lilly Environmental Conservation Program Manager N I T S U A F O Y T I C W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T N I T S U A F O Y T I C 2 Background • Construction of Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail began in 1971 • Code compliant at time of construction • 2017 WPO code amendment restrictions on 50 ft setback • Current use today averages ~ 5 million visits annually W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T N I T S U A F O Y T I C 3 Background Amendment initiated by City Council on May 18th, 2023 W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T N I T S U A F O Y T I C 4 The Trail Conservancy • Urban Forestry and Natural Areas Management Guidelines • Safety and Mobility Study • Parkland Operations And Maintenance Agreement W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T Site Conditions 5 N I T S U A F O Y T I C W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T N I T S U A F O Y T I C 6 Proposed Amendment • • • 25-8-261 (B)(3)(c) to allow the Butler Trail to exceed 12 feet width (no administrative variance) 25-8-261 (B)(3)(f-g) to allow the Butler Trail to be located within 50 feet of the shoreline of Lady Bird Lake with a baseline of 1:1 restoration, and up to 2:1 restoration where feasible, for impacts associated with reconstruction and capital improvements or alternative compliance as approved by the Director of Watershed. Current code only allows this with an administrative variance. 25-8-261 (C)(2) to remove the requirement for additional restoration for shoreline disturbance …
…. § 25-8-261 - CRITICAL WATER QUALITY ZONE DEVELOPMENT. In all watersheds, development is prohibited in a critical water quality zone except as provided in this Division. Development allowed in the critical water quality zone under this Division shall be revegetated and restored within the limits of construction as prescribed by the Environmental Criteria Manual. (B) Open space is permitted in a critical water quality zone if a program of fertilizer, pesticide, and herbicide use is approved by the Watershed Protection Department, subject to the conditions in this Subsection. (3) A hard surfaced trail may cross the critical water quality zone pursuant to Section 25-8- 262 (Critical Water Quality Zone Mobility Crossings). A hard surfaced trail that does not cross the critical water quality zone may be located within the critical water quality zone only if: (a) designed in accordance with the Environmental Criteria Manual; (b) located outside the erosion hazard zone unless protective works are provided as prescribed in the Drainage Criteria Manual; (c) limited to 12 feet in width plus one-foot compacted sub-grade shoulders, unless a wider trail is designated in a Council-adopted plan or the trail is a part of the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail system; (d) located not less than 25 feet from the centerline of a waterway if within an urban watershed; (e) located not less than 50 feet from the centerline of a minor waterway, 100 feet from the centerline of an intermediate waterway, and 150 feet from the centerline of a major waterway if within a watershed other than an urban watershed; (f) located not less than 50 feet from the shoreline of Lake Travis, Lake Austin, Lady Bird Lake unless necessary for the construction of the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail system as allowed in (g) below, and Lake Walter E. Long, as defined in Section 25-8-92; and (g) located not less than 50 feet from the shoreline of Lady Bird Lake as defined in Section 25-8-92, unless restoration is provided at a minimum ratio of 1:1 with the option that the applicant and the Director collaborate to reach up to 2:1, as determined by a functional assessment of floodplain health; or (g) (h) located not less than 100 feet from the ordinary high water mark of the Colorado River downstream from Longhorn Dam. (C) The requirements of this subsection apply along Lake Travis, Lake …
ANN and ROY BUTLER HIKE AND BIKE TRAIL SITE ANALYSIS and RECOMMENDATION Executive Summary On May 18, 2023 City Council initiated resolution #20230518-044 that directed staff to bring forth an ordinance amending Land Development Code (LDC) 25-8-261 “to allow the Butler Trail to remain within the setbacks applicable to Lady Bird Lake; and to allow capital improvements made to the Butler Trail to comply with the recommendations from the 2015 Butler Trail Urban Forestry and Natural Area Management Guidelines, maintenance standards of care listed in the Butler Trail POMA, and the recommendations provided in the Butler Trail Safety and Mobility Study.” Watershed Protection Department staff recognize the need to accommodate necessary improvements and updates to the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail (Butler Trail) for the benefit of the community. Staff also recognize the importance of providing improvements related to safety and mobility while demonstrating enhancements to water quality protection and the restoration of environmental function. Therefore, the following report and analysis provide a recommendation for a code amendment to the current 50’ setback from Lady Bird Lake and development in the Critical Water Quality Zone (CWQZ) to provide a feasible pathway that will allow future capital improvement projects to the Butler Trail, while providing improved environmental protections. The proposed code amendment would allow improvements to, and reconstruction of, the Butler Trail within the inner half Critical Water Quality Zone in exchange for adequate restoration of the floodplain at a minimum ratio of 1:1 restoration and up to 2:1 restoration where feasible, including off site locations along the Butler Trail. Restoration will be completed in accordance with Environmental Criterial Manual (ECM) Appendix X Functional Assessment of Floodplain Health guidelines. Introduction The Trail The 10-mile Butler Trail loop is located along the shores of Lady Bird Lake in Central Austin within the Town Lake Metropolitan Park, and is primarily a soft surface trail constructed with decomposed granite. Originally constructed in the 1970’s, the Butler Trail has developed considerable cultural significance in the community and represents one of the most popular regional recreational amenities. Its popularity is due in part to 1 the natural setting and views of Lady Bird Lake. The land through which the Trail runs includes several important ecological habitats and sensitive environmental areas, including Critical Environmental Features (CEFs) and Critical Water Quality Zones (CWQZ) as defined in the City of Austin’s land development code. Additionally, 80% …
C20-2023-013 ORDINANCE AMENDMENT REVIEW SHEET Amendment: C20-2023-013 Butler Trail Code Amendment Description: Amendments to City Code Title 25-8-261(Critical Water Quality Zone Development) in response to City Council Resolution 20230518-044 to allow the Butler Trail to remain within the setbacks applicable to Lady Bird Lake; and to allow capital improvements made to the Butler Trail to comply with the recommendations from the 2015 Butler Trail Urban Forestry and Natural Area Management Guidelines, maintenance standards of care listed in the Butler Trail POMA, and the recommendations provided in the Butler Trail Safety and Mobility Study. Proposed Language: Consider an ordinance to amend Title 25 related to environmental protections at the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. Summary of proposed code amendment In 2017, provisions were added to the Land Development Code section 25-8-261 (Critical Water Quality Zone Development) restricting development within the 50 ft setback of Lady Bird Lake including the construction of trails, including the existing Butler Trail, approximately 85% of which is currently located within the 50 ft setback of Lady Bird Lake. This restriction makes it more difficult to enhance, reconstruct and build the Butler Trail in its current alignment. In response to the Council Resolution 20230518-044, staff requests an amendment to existing code language to accommodate the current Butler Trail alignment and width while continuing to provide protection to the shoreline through mitigation and improvements to the health of the floodplain. Three amendments to 25-8-261 (CRITICAL WATER QUALITY ZONE DEVELOPMENT) are proposed: • • 25-8-261 (B)(3)(c) to allow the Butler Trail to exceed 12 feet width 25-8-261 (B)(3)(f-g) to allow the Butler Trail to be located within 50 feet of the shoreline of Lady Bird Lake with restoration provided for impact associated with capital improvements and reconstruction of the trail. 25-8-261 (C)(2) to remove the requirement for additional restoration for shoreline disturbance associated with the Butler Trail. • Background: On May 18th , 2023, City Council approved Resolution No. 20230518-044 to initiate amendments to City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to allow the Butler Trail to remain within the setbacks applicable to Lady Bird Lake; and to allow capital improvements made to the Butler Trail to comply with the recommendations from the 2015 Butler Trail Urban Forestry and Natural Area Management Guidelines, maintenance standards of care listed in the Butler Trail POMA, and the recommendations provided in the Butler Trail Safety and Mobility Study. 1 C20-2023-013 …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20231206-004 Second by: Perry Bedford Date: December 6, 2023 Subject: Proposed amendments to Title 25 related to environmental protections at the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. Motion by: Jennifer Bristol WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the applicant is requesting three specific amendments to 25-8-261 Critical Water Quality Zone Development are proposed: 25-8-261 (B)(3)(c) to allow the Butler Trail to exceed 12 feet in width; 25-8-261 (B)(3)(f-g) to allow the Butler Trail to be located within 50 feet of the shoreline of Lady Bird Lake with mitigation for impact with a 2:1 or alternative compliance as approved by the Director of the Watershed Protection Department; and 25-8-261 (C)(2) to remove the requirement for additional restoration for shoreline disturbance associated with shoreline access for the Butler Trail. WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the site is located in the Lady Bird Lake Watershed. WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes that staff recommend this amendment. THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends the requested amendment with the following: Staff Conditions City staff recognize the need to accommodate necessary improvements and updates to the Butler Trail for the benefit of the community especially those related to safety and mobility. The proposed code amendment provides a pathway forward to allow approval of future Butler Trail capital improvement project while balancing the needs of water quality protection and environmental function. Vote: 7-0 For: Perry Bedford, Richard Brimer, Jennifer Bristol, Mariana Krueger, Haris Qureshi, Melinda Schiera, and David Sullivan Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Hanna Cofer, Peter Einhorn, Colin Nickells, and Kevin Ramberg Attest: Kaela Champlin Environmental Commission Liaison 1 of 1
EAST BRAKER LANE EXTENSION Transportation and Public Works Department Parks and Recreation Board Meeting February 26, 2024 Parks Easement Parks Easement Introduction ■ The City has acquired right-of-way from developers to extend East Braker Lane from to Blue Bluff Road. ■ City Council approved the zoning change for Wildhorse PUD on December 14, 2023 for the final piece of the section between Decker Lane and Blue Bluff Road. ■ Parkland easement is opened to full use along Lone Star gas line (Doc. 2020194382) ■ Transportation and Public Works Department (TPW) is requesting a permanent change of use of parkland for right-of-way, utility, and drainage construction through the Chapter 26 process. ■ The roadway would have raised protected bicycle lanes, sidewalks, tree and furniture zones, and landscaped medians and buffers. ■ Memo of understanding with PARD, WPD includes: – commitment to connect Critical Environmental Features (CEFs) via culverts – Addition of rain gardens and green infrastructure in the tree/furniture zone – new plantings outside of the ROW per City standard detail 609-S) – grade-separated and/or protected crossings across the new road at the Austin to Manor Urban Trail Parkland Mitigation Summary ■ TCAD Parcel 953289 (38.7809 acres) Valuation $1,357,332 ■ Permanent Use (Roadway): 7,818 sq. ft. = $6,282 ■ Chapter 26 Processing Fee: ■ Total Payment Amount: $4,000 $10,282 ■ The Transportation and Public Works Department will pay the mitigation amount and processing fee. Request and Timeline: ■ The Transportation and Public Works Department asks for a recommendation to City Council to approve 7,818 square feet for a future roadway connection on parkland. Total Mitigation is $6,282. ■ The roadway project is many years from happening but the right-of-way dedication to the City is part of an on-going development project and needs to be finalized as part of that application. ■ Points of Contact: Dan Hennessey, Transportation and Public Works; Gregory Montes, Parks and Recreation.
M E M O R A N D U M O F U N D E R S T A N D I N G $6,282 $10,282 M.O.U. # 24-002 1/10/2024 Parkland Mitigation Amount = Chapter 26 Administrative Fee = $4,000 Total = Richard Mendoza, P.E. Director, Transportation and Public Works Department Kimberly McNeeley, M.Ed., CPRP Director, Parks and Recreation Department TO: FROM: SUBJECT: Braker Lane Extension (SP-2022-0425D) DATE: Transportation and Public Works Department is in agreement to sponsor a Chapter 26 application for the extension of East Braker Lane, adjacent to the Wildhorse Ranch Planned Unit Development #10, which encroaches upon an existing 7,818 sq. ft. Park Recreational Easement as shown on Attachment B (location map). Requested Permanent Change of Use Area: 7,818 sq. ft. = $6,282 (Attachment A, Mitigation Worksheet) Transportation and Public Works Point of Contact: Dan Hennessey Parks and Recreation Point of Contact: Gregory Montes Phone Number: 512-974-9458 Parks & Recreation Board: Council Approval: Phone Number: 512-974-1305 1 of 2 Date ____________________________________________________________ Kimberly McNeeley, M.Ed., CPRP Director, Parks and Recreation Department CONCURRENCE ____________________________________________________________ Richard Mendoza, P.E. Director, Transportation and Public Works Department Date Attachments A: (Mitigation Calculation Worksheet) Attachments B: (Location Map) 2 of 2
ATTACHMENT "A" - M.O.U. MITIGATION FEES CALCULATION WORKSHEET - SUMMARY Project: Braker Lane Extension - Parkland Easement Permanent Use - Residentail MOU # Calculated Fee $6,282 TOTAL = $6,282 ATTACHMENT "A" - M.O.U. MITIGATION FEES CALCULATION WORKSHEET Permanent Use Agreement - Residential TCAD Land Value of Adjacent Properties ($): $1,357,332 Project: Braker Lane Extension - Parkland Easement 0 MOU # 0 0 Avg. Lot Size (sq. ft.): 1,689,296 Based on subject property (Braker Ln Street Deed) Value per Square Foot. ($): $0.80 TCAD Land Value divided by Avg. Lot Size Requested Area (sq. ft.): 7,818 Submitted by Requesting Department/Entity Preliminary Mitigation Value ($): $6,282 Requested Area multiplied by the Value per Square Foot Disturbance Value (%): 100.00% Based on limitations on future development for that portion of parkland (see table below) Final Mitigation Value ($): $6,282 Preliminary Mitigation Value multiplied by the Disturbance Value DISTURBANCE VALUES Area can still be developed with minimal or no limitations (underground work/materials with no/few above ground appurtenances/fixtures) Area can still be developed with moderate limitations (underground work/materials with some small/medium appurtenances/fixtures) Development severely limited (underground work/materials with large or several small/medium appurtenances/fixtures) No future park development possible in the area - dedicated to installation (underground and/or surface appurtenances/fixtures) 35% 50% 75% 100% Prop ID Avg Sq Ft Land Value 953289 1,689,296 $1,357,332 1,689,296 $1,357,332 Totals 2023 TCAD Data
Austin Parks and Recreation Board Barton Springs Bathhouse Renaming Proposal Presented by: Kimberly McNeeley February 26, 2024 Kimberly McNeeley, Director, Parks and Recreation Department Austin Municipal Code Process initiated to rename the Barton Springs Bathhouse (2131 William Barton Dr.) to Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse at Barton Springs Pool 2 Naming/Renaming Process • The process for naming or renaming a park facility is in Austin City Code of Ordinances • Section 14-1-36, • Section 14-1-37, • Section 14-1-39. 3 Naming/Renaming Process On October 20, 2023, the Parks and Recreation Department Director notified the Parks and Recreation Board, City Manager, and City Council via written correspondence of an application to rename the Bathhouse at Barton Springs to the Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse at Barton Springs 4 • Initiated by Application and notice • Survey and community comment ended January 90 days 18th • Parks and Recreation Board Item February 26, 2024 • Parks and Recreation Board send recommendation PARD to Council by March 31st • City Council receives PARB recommendation • City Council makes final decision (Suggested Council Meeting April 18th) 5 Barton Springs Bathhouse History • Built in 1947 replacing an earlier wooden structure • 1987 City Council Resolution 870319-15 approved the naming of a portion of the Barton Springs Bathhouse “BJ ‘Buster’ Robinson Sr. Information Center” • May 8, 1997 naming of the Beverly S. Sheffield Education Center likely completed administratively • Both preceded Austin’s current Code • Both align with current code definition of “feature” • Appropriate for the existing feature names to remain 6 Joan Means Khabele • Born October 22, 1942 • Attended Blackshear Elementary and Kealing Junior High • Among the third group of students to integrate Austin High School • Late 1950s first Black person to jump into Barton Springs Pool in an act of • Sparked a movement of swim-ins that took place weekly throughout the civil disobedience summer of 1960 • Organized students from Austin High, University of Texas, St. Edwards and Huston Tillotson University in protest- leading to desegregation of Barton Springs Pool and Zilker Paek years before the 1964 federal civil rights laws 7 Joan Means Khabele 8 Community Engagement Feedback 9 Next Steps Parks and Recreation Board to make a recommendation Request for Council Action to be placed on City Council Agenda for final consideration and action 10 Questions?
M E M O R A N D U M TO: Parks and Recreation Board FROM: Kimberly McNeeley, CPRP Director, Austin Parks and Recreation Department DATE: February 15, 2024 SUBJECT: Renaming Proposal for Barton Springs Bathhouse This memorandum serves as the Austin Parks and Recreation Department’s (Department) conclusion to the 90-day community engagement period following an application to rename the Barton Springs Bathhouse to the Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse at Barton Springs. This memo, the attached application (Attachment A), community input report (Attachment E), and additional back up documents are submitted in accordance with Austin City Code of Ordinances. Process for Renaming a Park The process for naming or renaming a park facility is in Austin City Code of Ordinances section 14-1-36, section 14-1-37, and section 14-1-39. On October 20, 2023, the Parks and Recreation Department director notified the Parks and Recreation Board, City Manager, and City Council of an application (Attachment A) to rename the Bathhouse at Barton Springs to the Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse at Barton Springs, which began a 90-day period to receive public comment. The 90-day period ended on January 18, 2024. During that time, the department’s Communications and Engagement Unit performed the following actions: • Notified the community of the naming proposal through several outlets: o email notification o social media notification o in-person “pop-up” events at Barton Springs Pool • Developed and distributed a survey that allowed community members to indicate support or nonsupport of the bathhouse renaming proposal. Following the 90-day period, the director is required to submit the application and any other nominations or endorsements to the Parks and Recreation Board. The Bathhouse at Barton Springs The Barton Springs Bathhouse was built in 1947 replacing an earlier wooden structure at the same location. The one-story masonry building is attributed to Dan Driscoll, with support from Delmar Groos. The building style is Streamline Moderne, which is a late Art Deco style characterized by curving forms and horizontal lines. The building is architecturally and historically significant and is a State Antiquities Landmark and listed to the National Register of Historic Places. Names Associated with the Bathhouse Two other names associated with the Bathhouse are B.J. “Buster” Robinson Sr. and Beverly S. Sheffield: • In 1987, the Austin City Council Resolution number 870319-15 approved naming “a portion of Barton Springs Bathhouse in Zilker Park (old office and two basket rooms) the B.J. ‘Buster’ Robinson Sr., …
Austin Parks and Recreation Department Waller Creek Boathouse Conditional Use Permit Presenters: Reynaldo Hernandez, PLA, PMP, Park Development Division Elizabeth Barhydt, Austin Rowing Club Executive Director WHO WHAT AND WHY WHO, WHAT AND WHY WHO is involved: City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department and the Austin Rowing Club (ARC) operating out of the Waller Creek Boathouse WHAT is the purpose: Compliance with City Code to permit consumption of alcohol in designated areas at Waller Creek Boathouse facility WHY are we here: To request support for new zoning in alignment with City of Austin Land Development Code Waller Creek Boathouse Conditional User Permit Presentation OVERVIEW AND BACKGROUND WHO WHAT AND WHY Waller Creek Boathouse • Opened in 2012 • Austin Rowing Club is concessionaire operating the Boathouse • The Perch (formerly Alta’s Café) received a Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission (TABC) permit and began the sale of wine and beer in 2012 Conditional Use Permit (CUP) • CUP is required by Austin City Code of Ordinances for the sale of alcohol • CUP changes the zoning of the property from “PUBLIC” to “PARK AND RECREATION SERVICES (SPECIAL)” which will permit the sale of alcohol on parkland The CUP does not apply to special events. Events at Waller Creek Boathouse will continue to need a separate TABC agreement to serve alcohol. Waller Creek Boathouse Conditional User Permit Presentation TEXAS ALCOHOL BEVERAGE COMMISSION (TABC) • State commission governing the sale of wine and beer on-premises and in designated areas. • TABC license issued for a 2-year duration permitting the sale of wine and beer (not liquor) and is renewable. • Currently expires October 10, 2024. • Austin Police Department can issue citations for consumption of alcohol outside of defined boundaries or in violation of other state laws. • No one under the age of 18 can sell alcohol. No one under the age of 21 can consume alcohol. The CUP does not apply to special events. Events at Waller Creek Boathouse will continue to need a separate TABC agreement to serve alcohol. Waller Creek Boathouse Conditional User Permit Presentation OPERATIONAL PLAN WHO WHAT AND WHY Austin Rowing Club • 300 active rowing members, 70 staff members at peak season • Austin Rowing Club management agreement with vendor to adhere to CUP and TABC guidelines • Operating hours: • Monday – Sunday 8 am to 4 pm • Winter Hours: Closed Mon – Wed …
PARB Working Group - Budget February 6, 2024, 4pm – 4:40pm Virtual Attendees: Lane Becker, Kathryn Flowers, Jennifer Franklin, Shelby Orme Absent: Nicole Merritt 1. Review Action Items from Last Meeting Vice Chair Flowers reviewed the “helpful tips” document with the timeline and tips for the full Board, and all agreed it should be distributed. Board Member Becker provided an updated on his review of past PARB budget recommendations. He observed they were mostly short and concise, and nothing particularly jumped out for reconsideration this year, however, he will circulate them to the working group. No update on Board Member Merritt’s item. Board Member Orme made a spreadsheet of all the boards/commissions and marked the potentially relevant ones. She will circulate this to the working group. 2. Potential Briefing from PARD In discussion with PARD, it was determined that late February will be better timing for their briefing. Tabled. 3. Discussion of Possible Items of Interest from Members from Last Board Meeting Zilker Shuttle The working group discussed the Zilker Shuttle recommendation from the last full PARB meeting. Board Member Becker expressed interest in the shuttle aspects of the recommendation, but noted the lift of understanding cost might be significant. Questions regarding scope of the study were raised by Board Member Franklin. Board Member Becker expressed interest in transportation solution and noted that a study may be too significant to tackle in this working group. Vice Chair Flowers notes that it was unclear whether this would be a budget recommendation for PARD or for Transportation and Public Works, and suggested we reach out to Urban Transportation Commission to collaborate. It’s worth noting that the paused Zilker Vision Plan did include a shuttle system. Working group agreed that a study would be too difficult to cost but that the foundation for costing a shuttle system was present. Board Member Becker agreed to look into the past work of costing a potential shuttle system and share it with the working group. Board Member Franklin agreed to reach out to the Chair of UTC to have a discussion and gauge their interest in collaborating. Dittmar Recreation Center Some concerns were raised by working group members about focusing on one recreation center when needs citywide are significant. Vice Chair Flowers noted that the department is in the process of a recreation center needs assessment, which should better inform citywide needs, and that it is …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MUNICIPAL CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2024, AT 9:00 A.M. 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. Kavita Gupta, Commissioner McKenzie Frazier, Commissioner CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Kevin Mullen, Chair Andy Mormon, Commissioner John Umphress, Commissioner CALL TO ORDER 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 December 18, 2023. DISCUSSION ITEMS Service Commission. ADJOURNMENT 2. Discussion regarding Municipal Civil Service Commissioner appointment process. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Discussion and possible action regarding the recommendation to the Audit and Finance Committee of the Austin City Council for the Chair of the Municipal Civil Service Commission. 4. Discussion and possible action regarding the election of Vice-Chair of the Municipal Civil 5. Discussion and possible action to approve future meeting dates, times, and locations. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Matthew Chustz of the Human Resources Department, at 512-974-2859, for additional information; TTY users route through …
MUNICIPAL CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION Monday, December 18, 2023 MEETING MINUTES REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2023 MUNICIPAL CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION MINUTES The Municipal Civil Service Commission convened in a regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, December 18, 2023, at the Human Resources Department, Learning & Research Center (LRC) 5202 E. Ben White Blvd., Suite 500, Austin, TX 78741. Commissioners in Attendance: Andy Mormon, Chair Kevin Mullen, Vice Chair John Umphress Kavita Gupta Commissioners Absent: McKenzie Frazier Staff in Attendance: Matthew Chustz, Municipal & Civil Service Manager, HRD April Roberts, Municipal Civil Service Coordinator, HRD Abby Varela, Municipal Civil Service Coordinator, HRD Cyndi Gordon, Civil Service Coordinator, HRD Sarah Williams, Civil Service Coordinator, HRD Omar Francia, IT Systems Administrator, HRD Teena Gray-Hale, Employee Relations, HRD CALL TO ORDER Chair Andy Mormon called the Commission meeting to order at 9:05 AM. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes from the Municipal Civil Service Commission regular meeting on November 13, 2023. The minutes from the meeting of November 13, 2023, were approved on Vice Chair Mullen’s motion, Commissioner Umphress’ second on a 4-0 vote. 1 MUNICIPAL CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION Monday, December 18, 2023 MEETING MINUTES DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Discussion and possible action regarding the Disciplinary Probation appeal filed by Colin Wright from the Austin Water Utility. After the appeal was filed, the Disciplinary Action was changed to a written reprimand. Carol Guthrie, Business Manager with AFSCME Local 1624 and representative for Colin Wright, addressed the commission regarding this item. Megan Mosby, Assistant City Attorney and representative for the Austin Water Utility, addressed the commission regarding this item. Discussion was held and no action was taken. EXECUTIVE SESSION 5. Discuss legal issues related to Item 3, discussion and possible action regarding the Disciplinary Probation appeal filed by Colin Wright from the Austin Water Utility. (Private consultation with legal counsel – Section 551.071 of the Texas Government Code). Chair Mormon recessed the Municipal Civil Service Commission meeting to go to closed session at 9:50 AM. The Commission deliberated received legal counsel in closed session on Item 3 of the agenda. Closed session ended, and Chair Mormon called the Municipal Civil Service Commission meeting back to order at 10:25 AM. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing from the Human Resources Department regarding City of Austin procedures for investigations and disciplinary actions. Teena Gray-Hale, Employee Relations Division Manager with the Human Resources Department, provided …
REGULAR MEETING of the DESIGN COMMISSION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2024, 6:00 PM PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1405 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Design Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Nicole Corona, at 512-974-3146 or nicole.corona@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Jon Salinas, Chair Josue Meiners, Vice Chair David Carroll Nkiru Gelles Kevin Howard Conners Ladner AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Chi Lee Ben Luckens Marissa McKinney Brita Wallace Brendan Wittstruck The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on December 11, 2023. 1. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the Equity-Based Preservation Plan. Presented by Cara Bertron, Planning Department. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Discussion and possible action to consider a recommendation to support the Green Streets Initiative. Presented by Jana McCann, McCann Adams Studio. Sponsors: Chair Salinas, Commissioner Wittstruck WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES Update from the Urban Design Guidelines Working Group regarding updates to the guidelines. Update from representative of the Downtown Commission regarding last meeting. Update from representative of the Joint Sustainability Committee regarding last meeting. Update from representative of the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board regarding last meeting. 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 or email Nicole Corona at the Housing and Planning Department, at 512-974-3146 or nicole.corona@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Design Commission, please contact Nicole Corona at 512-974-3146 or nicole.corona@austintexas.gov.
DESIGN COMMISSION | FEBRUARY 26, 2024 Austin History Center (C05767, PICA 24201, PICA 29995), Chen Chen Wu, City of Austin Plan Vision Historic preservation in Austin actively engages communities in protecting and sharing important places and stories. Preservation uses the past to create a shared sense of belonging and to shape an equitable, inclusive, sustainable, and economically vital future for all. Joe’s Bakery, anonymous, Amy Moreland/ Austin’s Atlas Community-Based Process 12 months 22 working group and drafting committee meetings 1,100 working group hours 38 focus group hours 2,200+ staff hours Icons from the Noun Project: Community by Gan Khoon Lay, focus group by mikicon, committee by Adrien Coquet Community-Based Process “Being part of the working group was a great experience mainly because the members had diverse backgrounds, but the same goal. It was a rare learning experience.” Michelle Benavides Ursula A. Carter Linda Y. Jackson Brenda Malik Emily Payne Gilbert Rivera 1 Brita Wallace* 1 Justin Bragiel 2 Mary Jo Galindo* Meghan King* Alyson McGee 1 Rocio Peña-Martinez* JuanRaymon Rubio 2 Bob Ward 1 Noel Bridges Jerry Garcia 1 Jolene Kiolbassa 1 Debra Murphy 2 Misael Ramos* Maria Solis* 1 Caroline Wright 1 *Drafting Committee member 1 Phase 1 only 2 Phase 2 only Julia Brookins* Ben Goudy 2 Kevin Koch Robin Orlowski 2 Mary Reed* 1 Erin Waelder Amalia Carmona 2 Hanna Huang* 1 Kelechi Madubuko Leslie Ornelas 1 Lori Renteria 1 Equity-Based Preservation Plan REVIEWING THE DRAFT Neal Douglass, Oct. 1949, ND-49-346-02, Austin History Center, Austin Public Library. Draft Plan Goals 1. Tell Austin’s full history 9. Proactively identify important places 2. Recognize cultural heritage 10. Follow good designation practices 3. Preserve archaeological resources 11. Support stewardship of community 4. Stabilize communities assets 5. Support environmental sustainability 12. Be strategic with review 6. Engage communities equitably 13. Protect historic resources 7. Support people doing the work 14. Implement the plan collaboratively 8. Engage new partners What We Preserve Parade and mural unveiling (The Austin Chronicle), San Antonio Office of Historic Preservation Think broadly. • Recognize Austin’s rich and complex history through active listening, inclusive research, and interpretation • Better recognize and protect legacy businesses, murals, and archaeological resources • Use preservation tools to support community stabilization and environmental sustainability Who Preserves Invite and support. • Help people access knowledge, resources, and decision-making power • Streamline and explain historic review and designation processes • Support craftspeople, commissioners, and staff …
GREEN STREETS INITIATIVE to Keep Austin Cool February 26, 2024 City of Austin Design Commission Presentation Prepared by Kevin Howard, Urbinden, Jana McCann, FAIA, McCann Adams Studio and Kate McCarroll, LBJ School 2024 MPAF Candidate WHY AUSTIN NEEDS GREEN STREETS • We can address growth and climate change using public rights-of-way. As heat increases, shade and evaporative cooling from trees will be necessary for life, health and safety. • Street trees make walking, biking and taking transit possible in our increasingly longer and hotter summers. • Increasing vegetation - particularly trees - is an effective way to make Austin more livable and resilient to the effects of climate change. • Street trees are essential urban infrastructure, not just “nice-to-haves” or beautification”. Example of continuous shade trees at curbside, providing both shade and protection from road for sidewalk users STREET TREE BENEFITS LIFE SAFETY HEALTH MENTAL HEALTH AIR QUALITY WATER QUALITY URBAN HEAT CLIMATE CHANGE ECOSYSTEMS PUBLIC FINANCE CULTURE & IDENTITY Street trees along major transit corridors are essential if we expect to achieve our 50% mode split goal by 2039. WHERE ARE THE TREES? • Austin over-relies on private yards and natural areas for its urban forest, which are in wealthier parts of town. • • Less than 3% of Austin’s ROWs are required to have street trees, so our public pathways are rarely shaded. Yet, street trees are one of the most desired community benefits, according to many public surveys and in the “Contracts with Voters” in recent bond elections. The City’s Tree Canopy Map shows lack of “shade equity” on the east side. WHERE ARE OUR URBAN HEAT ISLANDS? • The worst urban heat island effects follow our paved street network. • YET, streets are where we walk, bike, roll, catch transit - exactly where it must be cooler. • AND, lower-income residents – who depend more on transit - live on the hotter, east side. • The worsening heat islands are a major public health risk for everyone, but especially for our must vulnerable communities. Heat Map of Austin showing the yellow, hottest areas focused in East Austin and Downtown WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES? 1. The LACK OF LEADERSHIP means that review staff are conducting reviews and making decisions, with little guidance and support. 2. Austin’s REGULATIONS are not aligned with City and community priorities: if they were, street trees would be required of development. 3. The …
