+ URBAN FORESTRY BOARD REGULAR MEETING Wednesday, March 18, 2015, - 5:30 p.m. Northwest Recreation Center 2913 Northland Austin, Texas Board Members in Attendance: Board Chair Chris Kite, Board Vice-Chair Peggy Maceo, Board Members Patrick Brewer, Nick Classen, Ryan Fleming, Len Newsom. Board Member Keith Brown absent. Staff in Attendance: Parks and Recreation Department Pat Fuller, Division Manager, Director Designee Robert Clawson, Nature Based Programs Division Manuel Flores, Parks Grounds Supervisor Planning and Development Review Keith Mars, Environmental Program Coordinator, City Arborist Office Lynn Tozser, Program Specialist, UFB Liaison Austin Energy Department Ray Henning, Line Clearance Supervisor Public Works Department Rob Grotty, Urban Forestry Program Manager MEETING MINUTES A. CALL TO ORDER Board Chair Kite called the meeting to order 5:40 pm. B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Urban Forestry Board meeting of February 18, 2015. Motion made by Board Member Brewer, Seconded by Board Vice-Chair Maceo to approve the meeting minutes of February 18, 2015. Approved by Board Chair Kite, Board Vice-Chair Maceo, and Board Members Brewer, Classen and Newsom. Board Member Fleming abstained. Board Member Brown absent. C. CITIZEN COMMUNICATION None D. ANNOUNCEMENTS The Planning and Development Review Department will be splitting functions into two individual departments: The Planning and Zoning Department and the Development Review Department. This change will allow for a more efficient distribution of workload and an enhanced focus on necessary process improvements. Changes to Landscape Ordinance - City staff held a Green Infrastructure Working Group public meeting on March 13, 2015 at Twin Oaks Library. Staff is exploring best practices and opportunities to improve the City landscape ordinance. E. URBAN FORESTER EXECUTIVE LIAISON REPORT – Keith Mars, Environmental Program Coordinator, City Arborist Office, including: Austin Urban Forest Plan Implementation Monthly Update. No questions on the information posted. Will be reviewed at the April 15, 2015 meeting. F. ACTION ITEM BRIEFINGS None G. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS None H. BRIEFINGS – 10 Minute Limit For Each Briefing 1. Austin Energy Line Clearance Monthly Update – February, 2015. Presenter: Ray Henning, Line Clearance Superintendent, Austin Energy. Presentation Given. 2. City Arborist Program Tree Preservation and Replenishment Monthly Update February 2015. Presenter: Keith Mars, Environmental Program Coordinator, Planning and Development Review Department. Presentation given. 3. City Arborist Program Annual Heritage Tree Report – 2014. Presenter: Keith Mars, Environmental Program Coordinator, Planning and Development Review Department. Presentation given. 4. Update from Treaty …
AUFP Implementation 3-18-15 i. AUFP Review (2019) ii. Annual State of the Urban Forest Report (2015) 1. Per AUFP: a. Update status and trend of Performance Report Card b. Update on progress of Departmental Urban Forest Plans 2. Status: Pending Performance Report Card and DUFP completion. iii. Urban Forest Annual Performance Report Card (9/2015) 1. Per AUFP: a. Obtain and utilize urban forest data (shall include tree inventory and GIS data) to improve data reliability and inform future updates to Performance Report Card’s performance measures (9/2015). b. Share urban forest data with departments for creation of DUFPs (9/2015). c. Annual report to UFB/CC via State of the Urban Forest Report (9/2015). d. Establish standardized data collection and formats (9/2015?). 2. Status: a. 1-28-15 Performance indicators have been divided into two categories. First, the data driven indicators, will be measured using available COA and UFIA data. Second, indicators that are subjective in nature will be assessed by students in the UT class, beginning with literature review. b. 2-18-15 Data standardization survey sent out to key COA staff. c. 3-18-15 Working group meeting to address data standardization, project pending further dialogue. UT class actively working on evaluating and quantifying performance criteria indicators. Ongoing research underway to communicate findings of the SoUF to the public (example: online performance indicator dashboard) iv. Departmental Urban Forest Plans (9/2015) 1. Per AUFP: a. Oversee and provide staff support to departments. b. Use action matrix to facilitate DUFPs. c. UFB hold annual public meeting to review and comment. d. Establish process to include public comments from AUFP into DUFPs. e. Report annually to UFB on AUFP implementation status. 2. Status: a. 1-28-15 A series of 5 workshops have been held, hosted by the UF program and geared towards key staff in the various land managing city departments. Action items based on various policy elements are the primary product of the workshops. The UT class will analyze proposed actions and provide framework recommendations. b. 2-18-15 UT class on track, staff to check in with class tomorrow (2-19-15). c. 3-1815 UT class on track v. Austin Standard of Care (3/2016) 1. Per AUFP: a. Identify/compile all existing operational/regulatory items related to urban forest management (3/2015). b. Facilitate working group to develop Austin specific SoC (9/2014) c. Update SoC, brief UFB (3/2016) d. Incorporate SoC into code. e. Educate the public on SoC. 2. Status: a. 1-28-15 Planning phase. b. …
FEB '15JAN '15DEC '14NOV '14OCT '14SEP '14AUG '14JULY '14JUNE '14MAY '14APR '14MAR '1412-Month TOTALTree Permits11812141671692902282472432492723402882,888Native Inches Removed776197276488462590504458489301923094,942Inches Mitigated374123146932002664762074152692504693,288Percentage Mitigated48%62%53%19%43%45%94%45%85%89%272%152%67%Poor Condition or High Risk1,7341,6211,3581,6073,5183,6193,0153,4713,5023,5394,0292,27033,283Tree Permits2131112142120403337222013256Trees PlantedNR5,40044257123NRNRNRNRNRNRNR5,824Trees Removed36150161617418823202118272Native Protected Removed320120000031211Inches Removed3765602198243177421971102832382182703,343Trees DistributedNR1310131311046090010136846Site Plans Approved4331828182429191718151716252Caliper Inches Surveyed99381478511,23227,9655,39030,9586,4553,1371171,1352,10012,207125,419Caliper Inches Preserved5,1147,3647,48512,4603,64118,3254,484890353101,05410,89372,055Percentage Preserved51%50%67%45%68%59%69%28%30%27%50%89%57%Native Inches Removed4531.573983,74715,5051,74912,6331,9712,247828251,0461,31453,049Inches Planted/Mitigated1,5072,3631,8616,8271,0665,0611,7731,3058259470548323,627Percentage Replanted33%32%50%44%61%40%90%58%100%72%67%37%45%Subdivisions Approved1714933182012241612713195Funds ReceivedNR$154,150$25,400$69,238$80,498$66,945$39,980$88,650$25,100$15,225$12,318$7,175$584,679Fund Amount (Per Inch)NR425127346402335200443126766236$2,578Grants Appropriated7820$0$15,000$6,000$0$12,000$0$610$45,795$45,000$0$125,187City Arborists (5)4023103113354894374804675535705154595,328Oak Wilt Arborist (1)122014132742295439497639414Environmental Inspectors (12)NR4,4664,3003,9873,9983,1893,3613,5893,8763,5893,1703,14640,671Landscape Inspectors (2)NR4537424429614743476166522General Permit Inspectors (4)NR66819015741140138144137110133891,9471 - Tree Ordinance Review Applications (mostly protected size trees on proposed single family construction lots or protected size trees which are diseased/dying)18-Mar-152 - High-risk trees within parks and right-of-ways3 - Trees with trunks greater than 8" in diameter (dead and invasive species not included)4 - Site Plan Corrections, Extensions, and Boat Docks not includedNR - Not ReportedMonthly Report"February 2015"InspectionsUrban Forest Replenishment FundPermitting and ReplenishmentTree PermitsPublic PropertyElectric UtilityCommercial Site Plans
2014 Heritage Tree Report Keith W. Mars City Arborist Program Planning and Development Review Department Overview of Presentation City Arborist Workflow 2014 Heritage Tree Review - Site Plan and Subdivision Permits - Heritage Tree TORA Permits - Dead, Diseased, or Hazard Permits The Big Picture Challenges and Opportunities Predevelopment Consultation Development Review Inspection Permit Data Analysis Work Flow Overview City Arborist Development Review, Inspection, and Permit Analysis Site Plan and Subdivision Review for Heritage Trees No Land Use Commission variances Reviewed 118 site plans and subdivisions 65% and 18% increase from 2013 in # of site plans and subdivisions reviewed ~18,000 inches surveyed ~17,000 inches preserved ~1000 inches removed (95% preservation of healthy heritage trees) 2014 Heritage Tree Permits 1083 heritage trees were reviewed on tree permits in 2014 33,340 inches of trees reviewed 35 healthy heritage trees allowed to be removed American Elm 13% Bald Cypress 1% Black Walnut 0% Bur Oak 0% Cedar Elm 8% Chinquapin Oak 0% Durand Oak 0% Live Oak 41% Pecan 23% Post Oak 6% Red Oak 7% Texas Ash 1% Heritage Trees by Species Reviewed on Tree Permits in 2014 Tree Condition Permits 350 dead, diseased, or imminent hazard heritage trees were reviewed on tree permits in 2014 10842.5, inches of dead, diseased, or imminent hazard trees permitted for removal Heritage Tree Mortality on Tree Permits Species 2014 Number Reviewed 2014 Dead, Diseased, or Hazardous 2014 % Mortality 2013 % Mortality 2012 % Mortality 2011 % Mortality American Elm 143 105 73% 78% 86% 85% Cedar Elm 80 37 46% 52% 47% 50% Live Oak 445 67 15% 20% 24% 26% Pecan 249 75 30% 33% 40% 31% Post Oak 67 22 33% 39% 50% 38% Red Oak 73 37 51% 57% 71% 71% Big Picture The ordinance is working (>95% preservation rate of heritage trees) Regulatory options for means to end Programmatic reorganzation Citizens and development community engaging earlier in development process Dynamic city, dynamic forest Ensuring community values are protected Urban Forest Challenges and Opportunities 4th year as fastest growing city in country while protecting the urban forest Protection of tree species less than 19” Fulfilling vision of Imagine Austin Comprehensive Urban Forest Plan CodeNext Questions? Keith W. Mars City of Austin Arborist Program Planning and Development Review Dept. 512-974-2755 keith.mars@austintexas.gov
Date ApprovedParkAddressSpeciesDBH (in)ConditionTree Risk (i.e. Moderate, High, etc.)Highest Risk Part and Defect TypePrimary Target2/3/2015Upper Bull Creek Greenbelt6958 Spicewood Springs Rd.Black walnut37poorhightrunk: extensive decay & previous failures directly over trailtrail users2/13/2015Butler Shores at Town Lake Metropolitan Park200 S Lamar BlvdHackberry18.5poorhightrunk: extensive decay and deadwoodpark usersPARD Urban Forestry - Program Park Tree Permits February 2015
Staff Liaison: Michael Simmons-Smith - 974-1225 WATERFRONT PLANNING ADVISORY BOARD MARCH 9, 2015 @ 6:00 P.M. ***BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM – CITY HALL*** 301 W. 2nd Street Austin, TX 78703 AGENDA Brooke Bailey, Chair Andy Hutton Eric Schultz, Vice-Chair Laura Toups Cory Walton Dean Rindy Tyler Zickert CALL TO ORDER A. CITIZEN COMMUNICATIONS The first four (4) speakers signed up prior to the meeting will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the January 12, 2015 regularly-scheduled meeting and the February 9, 2015 regularly-scheduled meeting. C. NEW BUSINESS 1. Update, discussion and possible action on the South Central Waterfront Area Plan Initiative. Staff: Alan Holt, Planning & Development Review Department. 2. Discussion and action to consider rescinding the January 12, 2015 vote on a variance from LDC Section 25-2-738(E) for the proposed Block 188 development at Nueces Street and 2nd Street. 3. Discussion and possible action on proposed density bonus provisions for various Waterfront Overlay subdistricts. 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. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access, and if sign language interpreters or alternative formats are required, please give notice at least 4 days before the meeting date.
Staff Liaison: Michael Simmons-Smith - 974-1225 WATERFRONT PLANNING ADVISORY BOARD MARCH 9, 2015 @ 6:00 P.M. ***BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM – CITY HALL*** 301 W. 2nd Street Austin, TX 78703 AGENDA Brooke Bailey, Chair Andy Hutton Eric Schultz, Vice-Chair Laura Toups Cory Walton Dean Rindy Tyler Zickert CALL TO ORDER A. CITIZEN COMMUNICATIONS The first four (4) speakers signed up prior to the meeting will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the January 12, 2015 regularly-scheduled meeting and the February 9, 2015 regularly-scheduled meeting. C. NEW BUSINESS 1. Block 188 (Nueces Street & 2nd Street) - Request a recommendation for waiver from LDC Section 25-2-738(E), which requires that a new structure within the North Shore Central Subdistrict of the Waterfront Overlay fit within an envelope delineated by a 70 degree angle starting at a line 45 feet above the property boundary nearest Shoal Creek with the base of the angle being a horizontal plane extending from the line parallel to and away from the surface of Shoal Creek. 2. Update, discussion and possible action on the South Central Waterfront Area Plan Initiative. Staff: Alan Holt, Planning & Development Review Department. 3. Discussion and possible action on proposed density bonus provisions for various Waterfront Overlay subdistricts. 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. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access, and if sign language interpreters or alternative formats are required, please give notice at least 4 days before the meeting date.
Staff Liaison: Michael Simmons-Smith - 974-1225 WATERFRONT PLANNING ADVISORY BOARD MARCH 9, 2015 @ 6:00 P.M. ***BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM – CITY HALL*** 301 W. 2nd Street Austin, TX 78703 APPROVED MINUTES Brooke Bailey, Chair Andy Hutton Eric Schultz, Vice-Chair Laura Toups Cory Walton Dean Rindy Tyler Zickert CALL TO ORDER A. CITIZEN COMMUNICATIONS The first four (4) speakers signed up prior to the meeting will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. – There were no citizen communications. B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the January 12, 2015 regularly-scheduled meeting and the February 9, 2015 regularly-scheduled meeting. – Minutes from the January 12 meeting were approved 5-0 on a motion by Mr. Walton and a second by Mr. Hutton with Mr. Rindy and Mr. Tyler not on the dais. The minutes from the February 9 meeting were approved 6-0 on a motion from Mr. Walton and seconded by Mr. Rindy with Mr. Tyler not on the dais. C. NEW BUSINESS 1. Block 188 (Nueces Street & 2nd Street) - Request a recommendation for waiver from LDC Section 25-2-738(E), which requires that a new structure within the North Shore Central Subdistrict of the Waterfront Overlay fit within an envelope delineated by a 70 degree angle starting at a line 45 feet above the property boundary nearest Shoal Creek with the base of the angle being a horizontal plane extending from the line parallel to and away from the surface of Shoal Creek. – This case was postponed to the April 13 WPAB meeting. 2. Update, discussion and possible action on the South Central Waterfront Area Plan Initiative. Staff: Alan Holt, Planning & Development Review Department. 3. Discussion and possible action on proposed density bonus provisions for various Waterfront Overlay subdistricts. ADJOURNMENT – Chair Bailey adjourned the meeting at 6:50. 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. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access, and if sign language interpreters or alternative formats are required, please give notice at least 4 days before the meeting date.
March 4, 2015 Nikki Hoelter, Senior Planner Planning & Development Review City of Austin nikki.hoelter@austintexas.gov Re: Block 188 Shoal Creek Setback Dear Nikki, The Kor Group presented its hotel/residential building to the Waterfront Planning Advisory Board on January 12 for feedback on proposed design located at the northwest corner of Second and Nueces Streets. Block 188 is on the border of the Waterfront Overlay and the Downtown Creeks Overlay. During that meeting we received comments from the board to keep the base wall within the 45 foot height limit adjacent to the creek. We have been working on revised plans to comply and are coming back to present on March 9 with a new design. The Waterfront Overlay Ordinance limits building height to 45 feet vertically within 60 feet horizontally of the centerline of Shoal Creek, which is also the starting point for the 70-degree setback angle away from Shoal Creek. We are staying within the envelope but requesting a variance to permit a few minor areas of the façade exceed the 70-degree setback. These primarily occur on the very top of the building. I have included an exhibit that shows how our building envelope relates to this variance request. This variance will allow us to maintain a great pedestrian experience on the trail next to Shoal Creek, provide an architecturally attractive and sustainable building, and work towards the density goals of the Green Water Master Plan. 40% of every ad valorem tax dollar generated at Green Water is goes towards affordable housing. A few points for consideration: 1. The shape of the building complies with the intent of the Waterfront Overlay. An alternative would be a wedge-shaped building that is inefficient and lacks the opportunity for outdoor patios and terraces. 2. The design and shape of the Building is intended to engage Shoal Creek along with the public walkways and improvements. 3. The location of the building core is driving the shape of the building. Staying within the envelope would mean moving the core eastward which creates an unusable floor plate for hotel/residential due to shallow bay depths, creating a hardship. 4. 40% of the revenue from property taxes collected at Green Water are diverted to the Affordable Housing Fund. Increased density is a direct public benefit. 5. The limited number of areas penetrating the setback are very high in elevation on the Building tower and not discernable at …
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT/SIGN REVIEW BOARD March 9, 2015 5:30pm CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS ___ Jeff Jack (Chair) ___Melissa Hawthorne (Vice Chair) ___Cathy French (SRB only) ___Vincent Harding ___Will Schnier (Alternate) ___Sallie Burchett ___Stuart Hampton (Alternate) ___Michael Von Ohlen ___Bryan King ___Ricardo De Camps AGENDA EXECUTIVE SESSION (No public discussion) The Board of Adjustment/Sign Review Board will announce it will go into Executive Session, if necessary, pursuant to Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, to receive advice from Legal Counsel on matters specifically listed on this agenda. The Board of Adjustment/Sign Review Board may also announce it will go into Executive Session, if necessary, to receive advice from Legal Counsel regarding any other item on this agenda. Private Consultation with Attorney – Section 551.071 A APPROVAL OF MINUTES A-1 February 9, 2015 B. SIGN REVIEW BOARD RECONSIDERATIONS NONE C. SIGN REVIEW BOARD PREVIOUS POSTPONEMENTS NONE D. SIGN REVIEW BOARD NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS D-1 C16-2015-0003 Merritt Lawn for Misti Morales 8100 Anderson Mill The applicant has requested a variance(s) to Section 25-10-124 (B) (Scenic Roadway Sign District Regulations) to increase the number of signs from 1 (required) to 2 (requested) in order to add a sign to the 2nd entrance of a new multi-family residential community within the City of Austin Extra Territorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) in a Scenic Roadway District. D-2 C16-2015-0004 Murphy Webster III for Hal Heemstra 615 West 7th Street The applicant has requested a variance(s) to: A. Section 25-10-191 (F) (Sign Setback Requirements) to increase the height and clearance of a sign within 12 feet of a street right-of-way from not more than 30 inches tall with a clearance of 9 feet (required) to 72 inches tall with a clearance of 2 feet 6 inches (requested); and to B. Section 25-10-129 (Downtown Sign District Regulations) (G) to increase the sign height from 6 feet (required) to 6 feet 8 inches (requested) in order to add signage to a new multi-family residential building within a “CBD-CURE-CO”, Central Business – Central Urban Redevelopment - Conditional Overlay zoning district. E. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT INTERPRETATION RECONSIDERATIONS E-1 C15-2014-0158 Katherine Loayza for Todd Pearah 7501 North Lamar Blvd. The applicant has filed an appeal challenging the Planning and Development Review Department’s Land Use Determination regarding legal, nonconforming status of the use at this site in a “TOD-NP”, Transit Oriented Development – Neighborhood Plan zoning district. (Brentwood/Highland Combined) F. …
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT/SIGN REVIEW BOARD MEETING MINUTES (March 9, 2015) The Board of Adjustment/Sign Review Board convened in a meeting on March 9, 2015, City Council Chambers, 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas. Chair Jeff Jack called the Board Meeting to order at 5:40 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Jeff Jack (Chair), Melissa Hawthorne (Vice Chair), Sallie Burchett, Stuart Hampton (Alternate), Vincent Harding, Michael Von Ohlen, Will Schnier (Alternate) and Cathy French (SRB) Board Member Absent –Ricardo De Camps and Bryan King Staff in Attendance: Leane Heldenfels, Cindy Crosby (COA Attorney), Diana Ramirez EXECUTIVE SESSION (No public discussion) The Board of Adjustment/Sign Review Board will announce it will go into Executive Session, if necessary, pursuant to Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, to receive advice from Legal Counsel on matters specifically listed on this agenda. The Board of Adjustment/Sign Review Board may also announce it will go into Executive Session, if necessary, to receive advice from Legal Counsel regarding any other item on this agenda. Private Consultation with Attorney – Section 551.071 A APPROVAL OF MINUTES A-1 February 9, 2015 Board Member Vincent Harding motion to Approve the minutes for February 9, 2015; Board Member Melissa Hawthorne second on 6-0-2 vote (Board members Sallie Burchett and Will Schnier Abstained); APPROVED MINUTES FOR February 9, 2015. B. SIGN REVIEW BOARD RECONSIDERATIONS NONE C. SIGN REVIEW BOARD PREVIOUS POSTPONEMENTS NONE D. SIGN REVIEW BOARD NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS D-1 C16-2015-0003 Merritt Lawn for Misti Morales 8100 Anderson Mill The applicant has requested a variance(s) to Section 25-10-124 (B) (Scenic Roadway Sign District Regulations) to increase the number of signs from 1 (required) to 2 (requested) in order to add a sign to the 2nd entrance of a new multi-family residential community within the City of Austin Extra Territorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) in a Scenic Roadway District. The public hearing was closed on Board Member Melissa Hawthorne motion to Grant, Board Member Michael Von Ohlen second on a 8-0 vote; GRANTED. D-2 C16-2015-0004 Murphy Webster III for Hal Heemstra 615 West 7th Street The applicant has requested a variance(s) to: A. Section 25-10-191 (F) (Sign Setback Requirements) to increase the height and clearance of a sign within 12 feet of a street right-of-way from not more than 30 inches tall with a clearance of 9 feet (required) to 72 inches tall with a clearance of 2 feet 6 inches (requested); and to B. Section …
+ URBAN FORESTRY BOARD REGULAR MEETING Wednesday, February 18, 2015, - 5:30 p.m. Northwest Recreation Center 2913 Northland Austin, Texas URBAN FORESTRY BOARD MEMBERS: APPOINTMENT : Christopher Kite, Chair Council Member Laura Morrison, Place 4 Peggy Maceo (Vice-Chair) Council Member Kathie Tovo, Place 3 Len Newsom Council Member Bill Spelman, Place 5 Patrick Brewer Mayor Lee Leffingwell Nicholas Classen Mayor Pro-Tem Sheryl Cole, Place 6 Ryan Fleming Council Member Mike Martinez, Place 2 Keith Brown Council Member Chris Riley, Place 1 URBAN FORESTRY EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS : Michael Embesi, City Arborist, Planning and Development Review Department Pat Fuller, Division Manager, Parks and Recreation Department – Director Designee Vacant, Urban Forester, Planning and Development Review Department John Clement, Environmental Program Coordinator, Watershed Protection Department – Director Designee AGENDA A. CALL TO ORDER B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Urban Forestry Board meeting of January 28, 2015. C. CITIZEN COMMUNICATION The first 4 (four) speakers signed up prior to the calling of the meeting to order are allowed a three-minute allotment each to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. D. ANNOUNCEMENTS E. URBAN FORESTER EXECUTIVE LIAISON REPORT – Emily King, Acting Urban Forester, Planning, Development and Review Department, including: Austin Urban Forest Plan Implementation Monthly Update Monthly Notification: Removal of protected size trees on parkland that constitute an imminent public safety risk. Summary of impacts to tree roots in Zilker Park from the U.S.A. Cycling Cyclo-Cross National Championships that occurred from January 7-12, 2015. Update on Draft Cemetery Master Plan. Update -- Public Works Department. Update on ForkLife DanceWorks at Govalle Park. F. ACTION ITEM BRIEFINGS 1. Grant application requesting $30,000.00 for vertical mulching on the Shoal Creek Restoration Project. Presenter: Darcy Nuffer, Watershed Protection Department. 2. Grant application requesting $30,000.00 for invasive plant management on the Shoal Creek Restoration Project. Presenter: Darcy Nuffer, Watershed Protection Department. 3. Overview of UFB By-Laws and functions to prepare for possible special called meeting with Environmental Board related to transfer of UFB responsibilities to Environmental Commission. Presenter: Chris Kite, UFB Chair. 4. Update on Cyclo Cross event at Zilker Park. Presenters: Jason Maurer, Sales and Event Manager, Parks and Recreation Department, and Lara Schuman, Acting Program Manager, Forestry Unit, Parks and Recreation Department G. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 1. Discussion and approval of grant application requesting $30,000.00 for vertical mulching on the …
+ URBAN FORESTRY BOARD REGULAR MEETING Wednesday, January 28, 2015, - 5:30 p.m. Northwest Recreation Center 2913 Northland Austin, Texas Board Members in Attendance: Board Chair Chris Kite, Board Vice-Chair Peggy Maceo, Board Members Patrick Brewer, Keith Brown, Nick Classen, Ryan Fleming (left meeting at 7:05PM), Len Newsom Staff in Attendance: Parks and Recreation Department Lara Schuman, Acting Program Manager, Forestry Unit Robert Clawson, Nature Based Programs Division, UFB Staff Liaison Planning and Development Review Department: Emily King, Acting Urban Forester Michael Embesi, City Arborist Lynn Tozser, Program Specialist Austin Energy Department: Ray Henning, Line Clearance Supervisor Public Works Department: Rob Grotty, Urban Forestry Program Manager Watershed Protection Department: John Clement, Environmental Program MEETING MINUTES A. CALL TO ORDER Board Chair Kite called the meeting to order at 5:42 PM. B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Urban Forestry Board meeting of December 17, 2014. Motion made by Board Member Newsom, seconded by Board Member Brewer to approve the meeting minutes of December 17, 2014. Approved Board Chair Kite and Board Members Brewer, Brown, Classen, Fleming and Newsom. Board Vice-Chair Maceo opposed. Motion carries. C. CITIZEN COMMUNICATION The first 4 (four) speakers signed up prior to the calling of the meeting to order are allowed a three-minute allotment each to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. Guy LeBlanc – Zilker bike race damage. Zoila Vega – Austin Heritage Tree Foundation – Zilker trees. Michael Fossum – Zilker trees. D. ANNOUNCEMENTS Memorial planting of Survivor Tree at Fort Hood tomorrow. The Environmental Board is having an Urban Growth Policy and Development subcommittee meeting this Friday (January 30th) at 11 a.m. on the 11th floor of the One Texas Center. The meeting will include discussion about tree impacts from the recent Cycling CycloCross Bike Race at Zilker Park. The transition of the selected Urban Forestry employees from PARD to PDRD is underway. This transition is based upon the City Council resolution from last August which identified that the six full time planning personnel be transferred to PDRD (while keeping the maintenance and operation personnel with PARD). Please know that Emily King has been appointed as the City’s Urban Forester and Lynn Tozser has commenced training (present tonight) to facilitate future Urban Forestry Board meetings as the Staff Liaison. Forklift Danceworks performance will be April 11 &12 There was a planting …
City of Austin Draft Cemetery Master Plan Tree Care Highlights Definitions Historic Trees: Individual trees and other plants within the cemeteries are considered historic if they were either growing or planted within the period of significance of a cemetery, or if they are part of a pattern of vegetation from the period of significance. Protected Trees: Any tree 19” in diameter at breast height, ~4.5’ from grade (DBH), regardless of species or condition Heritage Trees: as having a diameter of 24 inches or more in DBH, and is one of the following species: Texas ash, bald cypress, American elm, cedar elm, Texas madrone, bigtooth maple, all oaks, pecan, Arizona walnut, and Eastern black walnut. Preservation • Preserve historic trees by developing a tree protection, preservation, planting, and maintenance plan for each cemetery in collaboration with an ISA Certified Arborist and PARD Urban Forestry • Fertilize trees annually with a slow release organic fertilizer, preferably compost, as determined necessary by soil testing • Mulch all trees, covering as much of the Critical Root Zone (CRZ) as possible, while keeping a mulch free area around trunks • Perform bulk density testing of CRZs to determine levels of soil compaction, then aerate using an air-spade as needed. • Maintain historic trees, and explore all options for mitigating risk before removal • If conflicts arise between a tree and a marker, consider the temporary relocation of the marker rather than the removal of the tree • Inspect cemetery trees after large storms to look for tree damage • Prune trees only as necessary to reduce risk or improve tree health using the following prioritization levels: o 1st Priority – prune for safety o 2nd Priority – prune to preserve health of the tree including improving structure o 3rd Priority – Prune for aesthetics. Special Note: Topping of crape myrtles shall not be performed. • Ensure that new construction, markers, and plantings, and regular grounds maintenance activities do not negatively impact root systems of existing trees. Post oaks are called out for extra protection. • Implement a cyclical tree inspection and maintenance program • Educate cemetery maintenance staff about the importance of trees and their care Removals • Tree removals will only be done for safety reasons when no other solutions are possible • Removing any tree 3”in DBH or greater, regardless of condition, will require approval from PARD Forestry • All removals will be …
Date ApprovedParkAddressSpeciesDBH (in)ConditionTree Risk (i.e. Moderate, High, etc.)Highest Risk Part and Defect TypePrimary Target1/8/2015Bartholomew5201 Berkman DrCedar Elm23PoorHIGHTree has a codoninat stem with approx. 4' horizontal split from crown to main truck. Park users1/8/2015Bartholomew5201 Berkman DrCedar Elm23PoorHIGHThe tree has extensive decay through out the entire tree. Park users1/15/2015Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Park400 Grove Blvd.Cottonwood43PoorHIGHTree has extensive root rot and hardwood decay Park users1/23/2015Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Park401 Grove Blvd.Mulberry 21PoorHighExtensive trunk decay at point of attachment for two large limbsPark UsersPARD Urban Forestry - Program Park Tree Permits January 2015
JAN '15DEC '14NOV '14OCT '14SEP '14AUG '14JULY '14JUNE '14MAY '14APR '14MAR '14FEB '1412-Month TOTALTree Permits12141671692902282472432492723402882352,942Native Inches Removed197276488462590504458489301923091,1735,339Inches Mitigated123146932002664762074152692504694653,379Percentage Mitigated62%53%19%43%45%94%45%85%89%272%152%40%10Poor Condition or High Risk1,6211,3581,6073,5183,6193,0153,4713,5023,5394,0292,2702,71334,262Tree Permits2111214212040333722201319262Trees Planted5,40044257123NRNRNRNRNRNRNRNR5,824Trees Removed3NRNR161741882320211820165Native Protected Removed3NRNR200000312210Inches Removed3NRNR243177421971102832382182702572,035Trees DistributedNR013131104609001013677792Site Plans Approved4182818242919171815171622241Caliper Inches Surveyed1478511,23227,9655,39030,9586,4553,1371171,1352,10012,20713,828129,309Caliper Inches Preserved7,3647,48512,4603,64118,3254,484890353101,05410,8939,33576,276Percentage Preserved50%67%45%68%59%69%28%30%27%50%89%68%6Native Inches Removed73983,74715,5051,74912,6331,9712,247828251,0461,3144,49353,010Inches Planted/Mitigated2,3631,8616,8271,0665,0611,7731,305825947054832,77324,893Percentage Replanted32%50%44%61%40%90%58%100%72%67%37%62%7Subdivisions Approved1493318201224161271311189Funds Received$154,150$25,400$69,238$80,498$66,945$39,980$88,650$25,100$15,225$12,318$7,175$74,349$659,028Fund Amount (Per Inch)425127346402335200443126766236372$2,949Grants Appropriated0$0$15,000$6,000$0$12,000$0$610$45,795$45,000$0$0$124,405City Arborists (5)3103113354894374804675535705154594605,386Oak Wilt Arborist (1)201413274229543949763924426Environmental Inspectors (12)4,4664,3003,9873,9983,1893,3613,5893,8763,5893,1703,1462,89143,562Landscape Inspectors (2)453742442961474347616641563General Permit Inspectors (4)6681901574114013814413711013389772,0241 - Tree Ordinance Review Applications (mostly protected size trees on proposed single family construction lots or protected size trees which are diseased/dying)18-Feb-152 - High-risk trees within parks and right-of-ways3 - Trees with trunks greater than 8" in diameter (dead and invasive species not included)4 - Site Plan Corrections, Extensions, and Boat Docks not includedNR - Not ReportedMonthly Report"January 2015"InspectionsUrban Forest Replenishment FundPermitting and ReplenishmentTree PermitsPublic PropertyElectric UtilityCommercial Site Plans
Tree Care and Invasive Species Management: Shoal Creek Restoration in Pease Park Project Scale and Scope•15thStreet to 28thStreet•18 month construction phase•Adaptive management approach•3 year landscape maintenance phase•Follow‐up invasive management and revegetation•Recurrent soil treatments and mulch applications Vertical Mulching•Deliver oxygen and nutrients to root zone•One‐time application•Project certified arborist and restoration expert overseeing process•Additional tree protection (fencing) and application of nutrients (compost, mulch)throughout project length Vertical MulchingHand‐held auger12” deep holes, 1” min. diameter, 3’ on center124 trees throughout project reach Invasive Species Management•Mainly arundo, ligustrum, chinaberry•100,000 sq. ft. quantity•Managed over project lengthFall 2014Winter 2015 Invasive Species TasksPrioritize by species and locationOutline timing and techniquesSurvey and mark speciesQuantify management areasManage during construction and 3 year maintenance phaseRevegetateas needed Creek Health + Forest Health = Pease Park2Thank you!Vertical mulching:estimated cost: $137,763grant request: $30,000Invasive species management:estimated cost: $150,000grant request: $30,000
Staff Liaison: Michael Simmons-Smith - 974-1225 WATERFRONT PLANNING ADVISORY BOARD FEBRUARY 9, 2015 @ 6:00 P.M. ***BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ROOM – CITY HALL*** 301 W. 2nd Street Austin, TX 78703 AGENDA Brooke Bailey, Chair Andy Hutton Eric Schultz, Vice-Chair Laura Toups Cory Walton Dean Rindy Tyler Zickert CALL TO ORDER A. CITIZEN COMMUNICATIONS The first four (4) speakers signed up prior to the meeting will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the October 13, 2014 regularly-scheduled meeting and the January 12, 2015 regularly-scheduled meeting. C. NEW BUSINESS 1. Update, discussion and possible action on the South Central Waterfront Area Plan Initiative. Staff: Alan Holt, Planning & Development Review Department. 2. Discussion and possible action on proposed density bonus provisions for various Waterfront Overlay subdistricts. 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. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access, and if sign language interpreters or alternative formats are required, please give notice at least 4 days before the meeting date.
1 WATERFRONT PLANNING ADVISORY BOARD REGULAR MEETING APPROVED MINUTES FEBRUARY 9, 2015 The Waterfront Planning Advisory Board convened in a regular meeting on 9 February 2015 in the Boards & Commissions Room in City Hall in Austin, Texas. Chair Brooke Bailey called the Board Meeting to order at 6:07 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Brooke Bailey, Chair Dean Rindy Laura Toups Cory Walton Tyler Zickert Andy Hutton and Vice-Chair Eric Schultz were absent. Staff in Attendance: Michael Simmons-Smith, Board Liaison A. CITIZEN COMMUNICATIONS The first four (4) speakers signed up prior to the meeting will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. There were no citizen’s communications. B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the October 13, 2014 regularly-scheduled meeting, and the January 12, 2015 regularly-scheduled meeting. The 10/13/2014 minutes were approved 5-0-2 on a motion by Ms. Toups and a second by Mr. Walton with Vice-Chair Schultz and Mr. Hutton absent. The 01/12/2015 minutes were deferred to the next meeting for of lack of eligible quorum. C. NEW BUSINESS 1. Update, discussion and possible action on the South Central Waterfront Area Plan Initiative. Staff: Alan Holt, Planning & Development Review Department. 2 2. Discussion and possible action on proposed density bonus provisions for various Waterfront Overlay subdistricts. A special-called meeting was set for February 23, 2015 for work on the density bonus provisions, but was cancelled by Chair Bailey on February 20. ADJOURNMENT Chair Bailey adjourned the meeting at 7:13 p.m. with no objection.
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT/SIGN REVIEW BOARD February 9, 2015 5:30pm CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS ___ Jeff Jack (Chair) ___Melissa Hawthorne (Vice Chair) ___Cathy French (SRB only) ___Vincent Harding ___Will Schnier (Alternate) ___Sallie Burchett ___Stuart Hampton (Alternate) ___Michael Von Ohlen ___Bryan King ___Ricardo De Camps AGENDA CALL TO ORDER – 5:30 P.M. EXECUTIVE SESSION (No public discussion) The Board of Adjustment/Sign Review Board will announce it will go into Executive Session, if necessary, pursuant to Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, to receive advice from Legal Counsel on matters specifically listed on this agenda. The Board of Adjustment/Sign Review Board may also announce it will go into Executive Session, if necessary, to receive advice from Legal Counsel regarding any other item on this agenda. Private Consultation with Attorney – Section 551.071 A APPROVAL OF MINUTES A-1 January 12. 2015 B. SIGN REVIEW BOARD RECONSIDERATIONS NONE C. SIGN REVIEW BOARD PREVIOUS POSTPONEMENTS C-1 C16-2015-0001 Tracy Bedwell for Perry Phillips 9665 Highway 290 East The applicant has requested a variance to Section 25-10-123 (B) (3) (a) (Expressway Corridor Sign District Regulations) to increase the maximum height of a freestanding sign from 35 feet (required) to 50 feet (requested) in order to add a sign within the City’s 2 mile ETJ (Extra Territorial Jurisdiction). C-2 C16-2015-0002 Michael Hunter for North Austin Medical Center 12221 North Mopac Expressway The applicant has requested a variance(s) to: A.1. for sign 11, Section 25-10-124 (B) (1) (b) (Scenic Roadway Sign District Regulations) to increase the maximum area of a freestanding sign from 64 feet (required) to 90 feet (requested); and to A.2. for sign 11, Section 25-10-124 (F) (Scenic Roadway Sign District Regulations) to permit internal lighting of sign; and to A.3. for sign 11, Section 25-10-124 (G) (Scenic Roadway Sign District Regulations) to permit signs to be less than 12 feet from street right-of-way (required) to 11 feet from street right-of-way (requested); and to A.4. for sign 11, Section 25-10-191 (F) (Setback and Structural Requirements) a sign within 12 feet of street right-of-way must have either: 1) a height of not more than 30 inches; or 2) a clearance of nine feet (required) to 11 feet from street right-of-way, height of 77 inches and clearance of 7 inches (requested); and to A.5. for sign 11, Section 25-10-23 (B)(7)(Hazardous Signs Described and Prohibited) a person may not install, maintain or use a sign …
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT/SIGN REVIEW BOARD MEETING MINUTES (February 9, 2015) The Board of Adjustment/Sign Review Board convened in a meeting on February 9, 2015, City Council Chambers, 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas. Chair Jeff Jack called the Board Meeting to order at 5:55 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Jeff Jack (Chair), Melissa Hawthorne (Vice Chair), Ricardo De Camps (left approx.. 8pm), Stuart Hampton (Alternate), Vincent Harding, Bryan King, Michael Von Ohlen and Cathy French (SRB) Board Member Absent – Sallie Burchett and Ricardo De Camps (left approx. 8pm) Staff in Attendance: Leane Heldenfels, Brent Lloyd (COA Attorney), Diana Ramirez (left approx. 7pm) EXECUTIVE SESSION (No public discussion) The Board of Adjustment/Sign Review Board will announce it will go into Executive Session, if necessary, pursuant to Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, to receive advice from Legal Counsel on matters specifically listed on this agenda. The Board of Adjustment/Sign Review Board may also announce it will go into Executive Session, if necessary, to receive advice from Legal Counsel regarding any other item on this agenda. Private Consultation with Attorney – Section 551.071 A APPROVAL OF MINUTES A-1 January 12, 2015 Board Member Melissa Hawthorne motion to Approve the minutes for January 12, 2015; Board Member Bryan King second on 7-1 vote (Board member Stuart Hampton Abstained); APPROVED MINUTES FOR January 12, 2015. Board members voted to postpone requests from applicant and interested parties for Items L-3, L-9, L-10, M-2, M-3, M-6, M-8 to March 9, 2015 meeting and Item L-1 to April 13, 2015 and withdraw Items C-1, F-1, J-1, J-2, L-2. B. SIGN REVIEW BOARD RECONSIDERATIONS NONE C. SIGN REVIEW BOARD PREVIOUS POSTPONEMENTS C-1 C16-2015-0001 Tracy Bedwell for Perry Phillips 9665 Highway 290 East The applicant has requested a variance to Section 25-10-123 (B) (3) (a) (Expressway Corridor Sign District Regulations) to increase the maximum height of a freestanding sign from 35 feet (required) to 50 feet (requested) in order to add a sign within the City’s 2 mile ETJ (Extra Territorial Jurisdiction). WITHDRAWN BY APPLICANT C-2 C16-2015-0002 Michael Hunter for North Austin Medical Center 12221 North Mopac Expressway The applicant has requested a variance(s) to: A.1. for sign 11, Section 25-10-124 (B) (1) (b) (Scenic Roadway Sign District Regulations) to increase the maximum area of a freestanding sign from 64 feet (required) to 90 feet (requested); and to A.2. for sign 11, Section 25-10-124 (F) (Scenic Roadway …
