Case Number: 2024-000021 BA D-10/1 6708 Bridge Hill Cove A History of Unpermitted Work and Permit Anomalies Appealed Permits: BP-2023-129658 and BP-2023-129659 August 12, 2024 Presenter: Warren Konkel ITEM03/1PRESENTATION_APPELLANT D-10/2 Original Construction in 1989 1989 Original house and driveway completed (BP-8717316) June 29, 1989 Original survey performed by Michael McMinn. He still has his field notes. July 11, 2024 McMinn performs an IC Study based on his original survey and determines: Total IC at that time was 10,803 sqft. ITEM03/2PRESENTATION_APPELLANT D-10/3 Pool Addition in 1990 Original swimming pool and patio finished construction in March 1990 (BP-8912843). July 11, 2024 McMinn used historical photos and documents to estimate that the pool deck added 605 sqft. Total IC is now 11,408 sqft. ITEM03/3PRESENTATION_APPELLANT D-10/4 Annexation and Ordinances Changes Annexation (2000): ● City Ordinance: 001214-34 ● Exception for Existing IC: LDC § 25-2-532 Lake Austin Overlay District Ordinance (2014): ● Ordinance: 20140626-114 ● Effective Date: July 7, 2014 ● IC Requirement: Must comply with LDC § 25-2-551 Total IC at Time of Annexation: 11,408 sqft ITEM03/4PRESENTATION_APPELLANT Unpermitted Expansions (2014) In October 2014, there were unpermitted expansions to the driveway, front walkway, and pool patio. According to a 2021 survey, this increased impervious coverage by 3,457 sqft. Total IC is now 14,865 IC. D-10/5 Oct 2013 Oct 2014 Aug 2015 ITEM03/5PRESENTATION_APPELLANT D-10/6 Unauthorized Construction (2021) In March 2021, an application was submitted for addition of front porch and master closet expansion. (PR-2021-050731) This permit was not approved, yet the additions were constructed, adding an estimated 240 sqft. PR-2021-050731 Total IC is now 15,105 IC. Before After After ITEM03/6PRESENTATION_APPELLANT Pool House and Cabana Application Errors (2023) In June 2023, an application containing numerous errors was submitted to replace the pool and back patio with a 707 sqft pool house and covered terrace. (PR-2023-069215) D-10/7 ITEM03/7PRESENTATION_APPELLANT Wood Deck Reclassified as “Existing Conc Patio” Here are the unapproved 2021 PR and the 2023 PR side-by-side: 2021 2023 D-10/8 The 359 sqft of “Uncovered wood decks” is no longer present on the 2023 application. Instead this is represented as “Existing Conc Patio”. The McMinn survey shows that the original construction was a “wood deck” and only counts 50% towards IC. ITEM03/8PRESENTATION_APPELLANT Unapproved Additions Not Included D-10/9 The 2023 PR does NOT include the unpermitted 2021 front additions: This addition should be considered “new construction” and included on this permit. It still has not been inspected. ITEM03/9PRESENTATION_APPELLANT Non-Existant “Lower …
BOA Monthly Report July 2024-June 2025 5 July 8, 2024 Granted 1. 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from setback requirements to: decrease the minimum street side yard setback and decrease the minimum rear yard setback 2. 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from setback requirements to decrease the two minimum interior side yards setback and 25-2-551 (Lake Austin (LA) District Regulations) (B) (1) (a) from shoreline setback requirements to decrease and 25-2-551 (Lake Austin (LA) District Regulations) (C) (3) (a) increase the maximum impervious cover on a slope 3. 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from lot width requirements to decrease the front lot width 4. 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from setback requirements to: decrease the minimum front yard setback and decrease the minimum interior side yard setback and decrease the minimum street side yard setback 5. 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from setback requirements to decrease the minimum rear yard setback and 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from building coverage requirements to increase and 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from impervious coverage requirements to increase and 25-2-963 (Modification and Maintenance of Non-complying Structures) (F) (2) to increase the additional length of the front wall and 25-2-963 (Modification and Maintenance of Non-complying Structures) (F) (2) to increase the additional length of the side wall Postponed Withdrawn 0 Denied 1. 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from setback requirements to decrease the minimum front yard setback and 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from setback requirements to decrease the minimum interior side yard setback and 25-2-551 (Lake Austin (LA) District Regulations) (B) (1) (b) from shoreline setback requirements to decrease Discussion Items July 2024 Interpretations 0 new inquiries The deposition of the case items: Granted Postponed Withdrawn Denied Discussion Items Board members absent: Maggie Shahrestani and 1 vacant position (alternate) (Added july8# 2024) 5 0 0 1 4 4 1 0
BYLAWS OF THE BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT ARTICLE 1. NAME. The name of the board is the Board of Adjustment. ARTICLE 2. PURPOSE AND DUTIES. (A) The purpose of the Board of Adjustment is to: 1. 2. 3. 4. Hear and decide a request for a variance from the requirements of Chapter 25-2 (Zoning), except as otherwise provided by the Code; Hear and decide an appeal of an administration action under Chapter 25-2 (Zoning); Hear and decide on a request for a variance from the requirements of airport zoning regulations under Section 241.034, Local Government Code; and Perform other duties prescribed by ordinance or state law. ARTICLE 3. MEMBERSHIP. (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) The Board of Adjustment is composed of eleven members appointed by the city council. The council may appoint any number of alternate members to serve in the absence of a regular member. A member that was appointed to the Board of Adjustment may be removed by the council for cause on a written charge after a public hearing. Board members serve for a term of two years beginning March 1st on the year of appointment. A vacancy on the Board of Adjustment shall be filled for the unexpired term. An individual board member may not act in an official capacity except through the action of the board. A regular board member who is absent for three consecutive regular meetings or one-third of all regular meetings in a "rolling" twelve month timeframe automatically vacates the member's position subject to the holdover provisions in Section 2-1-27 of the City Code. This does not apply to an absence due to illness or injury of the board member, an illness or injury of a board member's immediate family member, active military service or the birth or adoption of the board member's child for 90 days after the event. The board member must notify the staff liaison of the reason for the absence not later than the date of the next regular meeting of the board. Failure to notify the liaison before the next regular meeting of the board will result in an unexcused absence. At each meeting, each board member shall sign an attendance sheet which indicates that the member does not have a conflict of interest with any item on that agenda, or identifies each agenda item on which the member has a conflict of interest. Failure to sign …
BOA fees are as follows (effective October 1, 2023): There is a reduced Residential Homestead Fee if the Liaison can verify in the Appraisal District’s website that it is the Homestead of the Homeowner listed on both the application & Appraisal District website. The reduced Residential Homestead fee does not apply to Commercial OR Sign variances, Interpretation or Appeal requests. Additional AE fee of $262 + AE Fee, will apply to all Variances and Special Exceptions other than Parking Variances only. Commercial and Residential (not homestead) Variance base fee $3,455.00 Basic Notification Fee $ 261.90 4% Tech Surcharge Fee $ 148.68 AE fee + $ 262.00 ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ TOTAL fee $4,127.58 Special Exceptions Commercial & Residential (not homestead) Variance base fee $3,455.00 Basic Notification Fee $ 261.90 4% Tech Surcharge Fee $ 148.68 AE fee + $ 262.00 ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ TOTAL fee $4,127.58 Residential (homestead) Variance base fee $ 500.00 Basic Notification Fee $ 261.90 4% Tech Surcharge Fee $ 30.48 AE fee + $ 262.00 ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ TOTAL fee $1,054.38 Special Exceptions Residential (homestead) Variance base fee $ 500.00 Basic Notification Fee $ 261.90 4% Tech Surcharge Fee $ 30.48 AE fee + $ 262.00 ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ TOTAL fee $1,054.38 Zoning Interpretations & Appeals Commercial and Residential Variance base fee $2,552.00 Basic Notification Fee $ 261.90 4% Tech Surcharge Fee $ 112.56 AE fee + $ 262.00 ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ TOTAL fee $3,188.46 Commercial Sign variances Variance base fee $3,455.00 Basic Notification Fee $ 261.90 4% Tech Surcharge Fee $ 148.68 AE fee + $ 262.00 ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ TOTAL fee $4,127.58
A COMMUNITY GUIDE TO THE CITY OF AUSTIN'S BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT: Practical Tips for Zoning Variances, Special Exceptions and Administrative Appeals Approved by the Board of Adjustment, on April 13, 2015, and prepared in collaboration with the City Law Department and Development Services Department. Chair Vice Chair Boardmembers: Don Leighton-Burwell, Melissa Hawthorne, Brooke Bailey Jessica Cohen Ada Corral William Hodge Rahm McDDaniel Darryl Pruett Veronica Rivera Yasmine Smith Michael Von Ohlen Legal Advisors: Lee Simmons Steven Maddoux Staff Support: Elaine Ramirez Diana Ramirez - Common examples of hardship include restraints, unusually if they are wants to preserve topographical lot shapes. Trees may constitute required them. lots with steep slopes, small lot area, or irregular or if an applicant to be preserved a hardship, - Personal troubles hardship. focus primarily circumstances, with neighbors, An applicant cannot be the sole basis for finding a but should may mention on characteristics such factors, itself. such as financial of the property or difficulties A hardship cannot be self-created. - An applicant based on conditions for a permit or site plan cannot claim a hardship for creating. that he or she is responsible - For example, if a structure is designed in a manner that fails to comply with regulations, hardship. Or, if a landowner pieces, hardship. the structure's subdivides he or she can't rely on their irregular shape to prove a a lot into irregular a non-compliance isn't A hardship where it's located. must be unique to the property, not general to the area - If steep slopes then neither hardship by itself. or small lots are common to a particular condition is sufficiently unique to constitute area, a - If a lot is entitled automatically relaxes small lots, then of a hardship. evidence the understanding area, development regulations. certain lot amnesty," under city code to "small which regulations for development be relied on as lot size alone should not with was approved of minimum lot Small lot amnesty that, with the exception would meet other site development - The City's example, regulations alone cannot be the hardship. cannot request a height variance and For an applicant BOA Community Guidebook -10 variance, different "hardship." the criteria kinds of situation exception and don't necessarily can be tailored require to address of for a special a showing In 2011, the City of Austin adopted a special exception designed periods required summarize followed to address of time …
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT RULES OF PROCEDURE Approved by the Board of Adjustment on February 11, 2019 ARTICLE I. GENERAL PROVISIONS (A) Legal Authority & Jurisdiction. (1) The Board of Adjustment (“BOA” or “Board”) is a sovereign board established by the City Council pursuant to Subchapter A of Chapter 211 of the Texas Local Government Code (“Chapter 211”). The BOA derives its authority from state law, as well as City Code § 2-1-111 (Board of Adjustment) and Chapter 25-2 (Zoning). (2) As stated in Chapter 211 and the City Code, the BOA’s primary functions are to hear and decide: Requests for variances from site development regulations adopted under Chapter 25-2, Subchapter C (Use and Development Regulations) and from certain sign regulations under Chapter 25-10 (Sign Regulations); Requests for special exceptions from site development regulations, where expressly authorized by Code; and (c) Appeals of administrative decisions made in the enforcement and administration of City zoning regulations and decisions made in the enforcement of Chapter 211. (B) Rules of Procedure. (1) These Rules of Procedure (“Rules”) establish standards, guidelines, and requirements for: (a) the conduct of public hearings and the resolution of cases before the BOA; (b) applications for variances or administrative appeals; and processing of applications for variances and administrative appeals filed with the Development Services Department; and notification to the BOA of the filing of an application for a variance and administrative appeals. (a) (b) (c) (d) BOA Rules of Procedure – Page 1 of 16 (2) In the event of a conflict with City Code, Chapter 211 or other applicable law, the Code, Chapter 211 or other law supersedes these Rules. (3) Applicants should familiarize themselves with these Rules before filing an application or presenting a case to the BOA for decision. For more detailed information regarding Board and the rules for variances, special exceptions, and appeals, see the Board of Adjustment Community Guidebook, at: https://www.austintexas.gov/sites/default/files/files/Planning/Applicati ons_Forms/Board_of_Adjustment_Guidebook__July_2015_.pdf ARTICLE II. REQUIREMENTS FOR REQUESTING BOARD ACTION (A) Complete Application Required. All requests to the BOA shall be filed on an application form provided by the staff liaison. The staff liaison shall determine if an application is complete before accepting it for filing. (B) Timing of Submittal & Other Application Requirements. (1) Variances & Special Exceptions. (a) Except as provided in Paragraph (B)(1)(b), below, an application for a variance or special exception may be filed at any time provided that the Development Services …
Presenter and property owner: Christi Lane My dogs, Sophie and Pickles, playing in the exact location of the latest vehicle impact. 2104 Westover Rd Austin, Texas 78703 A little about me: A native Texan, I first moved to Austin in the 90s to attend the University of Texas at Austin. I own 2 businesses. One, Reform Pilates, is a local business established in 2006. I am back at UT studying genetics with the desire to be a part of scientific research. I have lived in my home for about 15 years. I have loved watching Austin grow with the exception of the detriment to my property. I have taken this fall semester off to handle this important issue. I am asking for your help with a hardship variance for my safety and protection of my property. ITEM02/1-PRESENTATION Background: In the 1969 plans for Loop 1 (Mopac), 3 streets were considered Type E Separations for the area: Hancock Dr, W. 45th Street, and my street, Westover Rd. Other intersections were classified as redirects. ITEM02/2-PRESENTATION My home, built in 1952, is unique in that the property was bisected diagonally leaving the remaining property downhill and exposed to the direction of traffic from the southbound Westover Rd exit ramp. No other property in the area with equivalent downtown traffic has this juxtaposition. ITEM02/3-PRESENTATION 185m 183m The problem Another feature of the property is the change in altitude relative to traffic flow. The photo shows readings taken with an altimeter at selected levels of the southbound Westover Rd exit ramp. The difference in grade from the ramp to my property is 13 feet with my home being the lower altitude. . 172m ITEM02/4-PRESENTATION The problem: Hazardous airborne debris, often with the velocity of highway traffic. When I leave my house, I shut the doors to all rooms containing north (backyard) facing windows and I block access to the doggie-door. This gives me some mild reassurance that my dogs will be safe when a window breaks. I have experienced a total of 5 breaks located at the back of the house from airborne debris since I have lived in my home. I have also had punctured siding, though I consider this less threatening. I don’t use my backyard when I have an inadequate fence because I fear injury. ITEM02/5-PRESENTATION June 12, 2024 After the wreck that took the fence down on April 18, 2024, a …
REGULAR MEETING of the BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT August 12, 2024 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 for email 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 ___Marcel Gutierrez-Garza ___Yung-ju Kim 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). ___ Bianca A Medina-Leal ___ Brian Poteet ___ Margaret Shahrestani ___ Janel Venzant ___ Michael Von Ohlen ___ Suzanne Valentine (Alternate) 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. Approve the minutes of the Board of Adjustment Regular meeting on July 8, 2024. On-Line Link: Draft Minutes for July 8, 2024 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. PUBLIC HEARINGS Discussion and action on the following cases. New Variance case: 2. C15-2024-0024 Christi Lane 2104 Westover Road On-Line Link: ITEM02 ADV PACKET PART1, PART2, PART3; 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 eight (8) feet (maximum allowed) to twelve (12) feet (requested), in order to erect a fence on the east property line in a “SF-3-NP”, Single-Family-Neighborhood Plan zoning district (West Austin Neighborhood Group). 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 the requirements of this section. (B) In this section: (1) an ornamental fence is a fence with an open design that has a ratio of …
PER CITY ORDINANCE: All individuals scheduling or accepting a meeting invitation with a City Official are requested to provide responses to the questions at the following link: DSD Visitor Log. Please note that all information provided is subject to public disclosure via DSD’s open data portal. For more information please visit: City of Austin Ordinance 2016-0922-005 | City Clerk’s website | City Clerk’s FAQ’s From: Leitch, Steve <Steve.Leitch@austintexas.gov> Sent: Monday, August 12, 2024 12:42 PM To: Ramirez, Elaine <Elaine.Ramirez@austintexas.gov> Subject: c15-2024-0025 Good afternoon, Mrs. Ramirez, I would like to ask for a postponement of this case. In recognition of the fact that a second appeal has been filed, which will not be heard until next month’s Board of Adjustment meeting, I believe that it would be most efficient to hear both appeals simultaneously at the September meeting. Thank you for your consideration and please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. Steve Leitch Division Manager, Expedited Plan Review City of Austin Development Services Department 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Rd., Austin, TX 78752 Office: 512-978-1676 ITEM03/1-LATE BACKUP Schedule a virtual or in-person appointment for your development and permitting questions. Please contact my direct supervisor with any kudos or concerns at Brenda.DeLaGarza@austintexas.gov. PER CITY ORDINANCE: All individuals scheduling or accepting a meeting invitation with a City Official are requested to provide responses to the questions at the following link: DSD Visitor Log. Please note that all information provided is subject to public disclosure via DSD’s open data portal. For more information please visit: City of Austin Ordinance 2016-0922-005 | City Clerk’s website | City Clerk’s FAQ’s ITEM03/2-LATE BACKUP
TO: FROM: Jessica Cohen, Chair Board of Adjustment Members Brent D. Lloyd Development Officer Development Services Department DATE: August 7, 2024 SUBJECT: Case No. C15-2024-0025 | 6708 Bridge Hill Cove The matter before the Board is an appeal of an administrative decision by the Development Services Department (“DSD”) to approve a building permit for residential development 6708 Bridge Hill Cove. The issues in the appeal concern the amount of impervious cover (“IC”) approved for the project in relation to applicable zoning regulations. To assist the Board in understanding the issues, this report is laid out as follows: (1) General background, including DSD’s decision approving the permit under appeal and the development history of the subject property, at pp. 1-2; (2) Procedural requirements for the appeal, at pp. 2-3; and (3) DSD’s recommended action on the appeal, at p. 3. 1. Background — Decision on Appeal On March 24, 2024, DSD approved a building permit (BP No. 2023-129658) for construction of a two-story addition and related improvements to the existing residential structure at 6708 Bridge Hill Cove. After the permit was approved, the Appellant (Mr. Warren Konkel) identified errors in the review process related to the calculation of impervious cover. In particular, Mr. Konkel correctly pointed out that some of the impervious cover shown as “existing” on the approved building plans was associated with development that had never received permits from the City. After reviewing Mr. Konkel’s concerns, DSD determined that the proposed plans submitted on behalf of the landowner, Ms. Christy May, incorrectly denoted unpermitted development as “existing” and that review staff had failed to catch the error. Consistent with LDC Sec. 25-11-66 (Errors in Permit Support Documents), DSD placed an administrative hold on the permit halting further inspections pending resolution of the impervious cover issues. Staff Report re: 6708 Bridge Hill Cove BOA Appeal | Page – 1 ITEM03/1-LATE BACKUP While the hold remained in place, DSD reviewed the site’s development history using available plans, aerial photography, and an IC analysis provided by the applicant (see Attachment A) to determine the amount of impervious cover associated with the original construction permitted in 1987 and 1989. Based on that review, DSD determined that approximately 12,811 square feet of impervious cover was associated with the original development and that an additional 1,000 square feet is permissible based on an established policy allowing limited modifications to projects initiated before currently applicable regulations …
CITY OF AUSTIN Board of Adjustment Decision Sheet ITEM02 DATE: Monday August 12, 2024 CASE NUMBER: C15-2024-0024 _______Thomas Ates (D1) _______Bianca A Medina-Leal (D2) _______Jessica Cohen (D3) _______Yung-ju Kim (D4) _______Melissa Hawthorne (D5) _______Jeffery Bowen (D6) _______Janel Venzant (D7) _______Margaret Shahrestani (D8) _______Brian Poteet (D9) _______Michael Von Ohlen (D10) _______Marcel Gutierrez-Garza (M) _______VACANT (Alternate) (M) _______Suzanne Valentine (Alternate) (M) _______VACANT (Alternate) (M) OWNER/APPLICANT: CHRISTI LANE ADDRESS: 2104 WESTOVER RD VARIANCE REQUESTED: 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 eight (8) feet (maximum allowed) to twelve (12) feet (requested), in order to erect a fence on the east property line in a “SF-3-NP”, Single-Family-Neighborhood Plan zoning district (West Austin Neighborhood Group). 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 the requirements of this section. (B) In this section: (1) an ornamental fence is a fence with an open design that has a ratio of solid material to open space of not more than one to four; and (2) a solid fence is a fence other than an ornamental fence. (C) The height restrictions of this section do not apply to an ornamental fence. (D) Except as otherwise provided in this section, a solid fence constructed along a property line may not exceed a height of six feet measured from the natural grade up. (E) If there is a change in grade of at least one foot measured along any run of a solid fence along a property line, then the portion of the fence where the grade change occurs may be constructed to a maximum height of seven feet. (F) a solid fence along a property line may be constructed to a maximum height of eight feet if each owner of property that adjoins a section of the fence that exceeds a height of six feet files written consent to the construction of the fence with the building official; and (1) there is a change in grade of at least two feet within 50 feet of the boundary between adjoining properties; or (2) a structure, including a telephone junction box, exists that is reasonably likely to enable a child to climb over a six-foot fence and gain …
CITY OF AUSTIN Board of Adjustment Interpretation Appeal Decision Sheet ITEM03 DATE: August 12, 2024 CASE NUMBER: C15-2024-0025 _______Thomas Ates (D1) _______Bianca A Medina-Leal (D2) _______Jessica Cohen (D3) _______Yung-ju Kim (D4) _______Melissa Hawthorne (D5) _______Jeffery Bowen (D6) _______Janel Venzant (D7) _______Margaret Shahrestani (D8) _______Brian Poteet (D9) _______Michael Von Ohlen (D10) _______Marcel Gutierrez-Garza (M) _______VACANT (Alternate) (M) _______Suzanne Valentine (Alternate) (M) _______VACANT (Alternate) (M) APPELLANT’S AGENT: Nicholl Wade APPELLANT: Warren Konkel OWNER: Christy May ADDRESS: 6708 BRIDGE HILL CV SUMMARY OF APPEAL: Appellant challenges issuance of Building Permit 2023-12958 BP on the grounds that the City incorrectly approved impervious cover (IC) of approximately 12,811 square feet, which exceeds IC limitations applicable within the Lake Austin (LA) zoning district. BOARD’S DECISION: POSTPONED TO September 9, 2024, DUE TO NOT HAVING ENOUGH BOARD MEMBERS FOR VOTING PURPOSES FINDING: 1. There is a reasonable doubt of difference of interpretation as to the specific intent of the regulations or map in that: 2. An appeal of use provisions could clearly permit a use which is in character with the uses enumerated for the various zones and with the objectives of the zone in question because: 3. The interpretation will not grant a special privilege to one property inconsistent with other properties or uses similarly situated in that: Elaine Ramirez Executive Liaison Jessica Cohen Chair for
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, August 12, 2024 The BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT convened in a Regular meeting on Monday, August 12, 2024, at 301 West 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Jessica Cohen called the Board of Adjustment Meeting to order at 5:36 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance in-Person: Jessica Cohen-Chair Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Melissa Hawthorne-Vice Chair, Thomas Ates, Jeffery Bowen, Bianca A. Medina-Leal, Maggie Shahrestani Board Member/Commissioners absent: Brian Poteet, Marcel Gutierrez-Garza, Yung-ju Kim, Janel Venzant, Michael Von Ohlen 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 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Board of Adjustment Regular meeting on July 8, 2024. On-Line Link: Draft Minutes for July 8, 2024 The minutes from the meeting July 8, 2024, were approved on Vice Chair’s Melissa Hawthorne motion, Chair Jessica Cohen second on a 6-0 vote. PUBLIC HEARINGS Discussion and action on the following cases. Madam Chair Jessica Cohen motion to postpone cases Item02 and Item03 to September 9, 2024, due to not having enough board members for voting purposes; Vice-chair Melissa Hawthorne second on 6-0 votes; POSTPONED CASES FOR ITEM02 AND ITEM03 TO September 9, 2024, DUE TO NOT HAVING ENOUGH BOARD MEMBERS FOR VOTING PURPOSES. New Variance case: 2. C15-2024-0024 Christi Lane 2104 Westover Road On-Line Link: ITEM02 ADV PACKET PART1, PART2, PART3; 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 eight (8) feet (maximum allowed) to twelve (12) feet (requested), in order to erect a fence on the east property line in a “SF-3-NP”, Single-Family-Neighborhood Plan zoning district (West Austin Neighborhood Group). 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 the requirements of this section. (B) In this section: (1) an ornamental fence is a fence with an open design that has a ratio of solid material to open space of not more than one to four; and (2) a solid fence is a fence other than an ornamental …
REGULAR MEETING of the AUSTIN-TRAVIS COUNTY FOOD POLICY BOARD MONDAY, AUGUST 12th, 2024, FROM 5:00 TO 8:00 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 Larry Franklin CALL TO ORDER 1. Hilda Gutierrez Kacey Hanson Rosamaria Murillo Natalie Poulos Matt Simon Andrew Smith AGENDA Board member roll call and introduction of new board members (name, organization, why they are on food policy board). 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 2. Approve the minutes of the Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board Regular Meeting from Monday, June 10, 2024. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Presentation by Tracy Ayrhart from Central Texas Food Bank on plans for a Travis County Community Needs Assessment and the development of a Central Texas Food System Council to support collaborative work across county lines. Presentation by Yaira Robinson providing updates on Austin-Travis County Food Plan adoption and implementation. Presentation by Edwin Marty on context building for Austin Travis County Food Policy Board strategic planning. Discussion of Joint Sustainability Committee meetings held on June 26, 2024, Larry Franklin. Discuss Annual Internal Review which was due July 31, 2024. Review Board Member Assignments (Note for Chair: take item out of order and discuss at end of meeting). 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 …
Austin/Travis County Food Policy Board MEETING MINUTES August 12, 2024 The Austin/Travis County Food Policy Board (ATCFPB) convened on Monday, June 10th at the City of Austin Permitting and Development Center, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Room 1406, Austin, TX 78752. Board Members in Attendance: Andrea Abel, Lisa Barden, Marissa Bell, Mark Bethell, Joi Chevalier, Beth Corbett, Hilda Gutierrez, Kacey Hanson, Matt Simon, Andy Smith Board Members Absent: Larry Franklin, Rosamaria Murillo Staff in Attendance: Edwin Marty (City of Austin), Angela Baucom (City of Austin) CALL TO ORDER Chair Joi Chevalier called the meeting to order at 5:09 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION Carlos Soto, Community Advancement Network – Language Access Project and CAN Community Resource Guides. Resource Guides available in 10 languages and across several topics: Know Your Rights, Health, Food, Staying Safe, Managing Your Money, Navigating the Education System. Guides are also available in video form. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Board Member Mark Bethell motioned to approve the meeting minutes from the Regular Meeting on June 10th , with Board Member Marissa Bell, seconding the motion. Minutes passed on an 10- 0 vote. STAFF BRIEFING None DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation by Tracy Ayrhart from Central Texas Food Bank on plans for a Travis County Community Needs Assessment and the development of a Central Texas Food System Council to support collaborative work across county lines. a. Why CTFB for Regional Food System Council planning? i. The Food Bank thinks of food insecurity as a result of the food system. The role of charitable services is a downstream response to be able to get food on people’s plates if they can’t access it themselves through other means. ii. CTFB launched a regional Data Advisory Group and the Central Texas Food System Dashboard (2022), and has been conducting county-level Food Access Community Needs Assessments since 2023. iii. CTFB already serves 21 counties, has existing relationships across the food system and across sectors, has access to infrastructure, builds on existing work on regional data network, the work aligns with the strategic vision of the organization, and has a willingness and a desire to invest, including the buy-in of leadership. b. Regional Food System Council i. Purpose: assess the food system, build strategic partnerships and connections, cultivate greater awareness of the food system, and determine strategic opportunities and priorities. ii. Scope: Counties with existing food system momentum, with plans to expand to 21 (starting with 5 …
REGULAR MEETING of the ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION August 12, 2024, 6 p.m. Austin City Hall, Room 1101 301 W. 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, contact Eric Anderson at eric.anderson@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-2562. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Ryan Clinton, Chair, Travis County Nancy Nemer, Parliamentarian, Travis County Lotta Smagula, D1 Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Ann Linder, Vice Chair, D3 Dr. Paige Nilson, D4 Whitney Holt, D5 Luis Herrera, D6 Larry Tucker, D7 Sarah Huddleston, D9 Dr. Amanda Bruce, D10 Laura Hoke, Mayor CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA 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 July 8, 2024. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports provided by the Animal Service Center. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Discussion of the Animal Services strategic plan and planning process. 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 contact Eric Anderson, Office of (512) 974-2562 or eric.anderson@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Animal Advisory Commission, please contact Eric Anderson at (512) 974-2562 or eric.anderson@austintexas.gov. the City Clerk at
1. ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES JULY 8, 2024 The Animal Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on July 8, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd St in Austin, Texas. Parliamentarian Nemer called the Animal Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Nancy Nemer, Parliamentarian, Travis County Luis Herrera, D6 Laura Hoke, Mayor’s Appointee Paige Nilson, D4 Lotta Smagula, D1 Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Ann Linder, Vice Chair, D3 Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Sarah Huddleston, D9 Commissioners Absent: Ryan Clinton, Chair, Travis County Amanda Bruce, D10 Whitney Holt, D5 Larry Tucker, D7 PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Rochelle Vickery – Spay and Neuter, Found Dogs Jeff Gjertson – Found Dogs, Shelter Intake APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Animal Advisory Commission Regular Meeting on June 10, 2024. 1 The minutes from the meeting of June 10, 2024, were approved on Vice Chair Linder’s motion, Commissioner Smagula’s second on an 8-0 vote. Chair Clinton, Commissioners Bruce, Holt, and Tucker were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports provided by the Animal Service Center. The presentation was made by Don Bland, Chief Animal Services Officer, Austin Animal Services. Commissioner Dulzaides requested that information on the number of animals microchipped this year be provided by Animal Services staff. Presentation by Austin Pets Alive! regarding license agreement reports. The presentation was made by Stephanie Bilbro, Austin Pets Alive! Director of Operations. Discussion of the Animal Services strategic plan and planning process. A presentation was made by Stephanie Hayden-Howard, Assistant City Manager. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM 5. Approve a recommendation to Council on animals at City of Austin Cooling Centers. The motion to approve the recommendation to Council on animals at City of Austin Cooling Centers was approved on Commissioner Smagula’s motion, Commissioner Herrera’s second on an 8-0 vote. Chair Clinton, Commissioners Bruce, Holt, and Tucker were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS None. Parliamentarian Nemer adjourned the meeting at 7:11 p.m. without objection. The minutes were approved at the XX, meeting on Commissioner XX’s motion, Commissioner XX’s second on a X-X vote. 2
Information is from October 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024 Information compiled via ASO Power BI dashboards. Difference of outcomes - intakes Outcome Year (fiscal) Intake Year (fiscal) Dog totals Cat totals Totals Dog totals Cat totals Totals Dog totals Cat totals Totals Cats Adoption Transfer Euthanasia Died Missing Total Dog Adoption Transfer Euthanasia Died Missing Total RTO/RTO Adopt SNR (former SCRP) RTO/RTO Adopt 2024 4455 4800 9255 2024 4419 4618 9037 2024 -36 -182 -218 2024 2902 130 1035 94 62 2 393 4618 2024 2936 651 731 74 25 2 4419
July 2024 AUSTIN ANIMAL SERVICES REPORT 1 Animal Services News • The live outcome rate for July was 97.31%. • A total of 932 animals were brought to the shelter which included 511 cats, 378 dogs, 28 wild animals, 6 guinea pigs, 2 rats, 1 chicken, 1 turkey, and 1 rabbit. • A total of 769 animals were adopted (166 adult dogs, 123 puppies, 398 kittens, and 82 adult • A total of 70 dogs and cats were returned to their owners (RTOs and RTO-Adopt). • On July 1, there were 1,278 dogs and cats within the ASO inventory (683 onsite, 592 in foster, and • On August 1, there were 1,045 dogs and cats within the ASO inventory (553 onsite, 486 in foster, 2 cats). 1 at a vet clinic). at a vet clinic, and 1 at TLAC). Animal Protection • Animal Protection Officers (APOs) returned 25 animals to their owners in the field. • Officers handed out 24 fencing assistance applications and implanted 7 microchip(s). • Officers impounded 151 injured animals and delivered approximately 92 wildlife animals to Austin Wildlife Rescue. • Officers entered 205 rabies exposure reports and submitted 46 specimens for rabies testing. We had 4 positive bats, 2 decomposed bats and 2 decomposed skunks. • 67 total coyote related activities (Behavior types include Sighting, Encounter, Incident, and Observation. “Observation” is defined as hearing coyotes howling and finding scat or footprints.) o 54 Wild Sick o 9 Sightings o 2 o 1 o 1 Wild Speak Encounters Incident • Out of 67 coyote related activities, 12 (18%) reports fell within the reported behavior types (sighting, encounter, incident, and observation) o Encounters: Pets were a factor in 2/2 (100%) of encounters reported. ▪ An encounter involved a coyote with mange running up to caller and dog. ▪ An encounter involved a coyote following caller and dog. o Incidents: Pets were a factor in 0/0 (0%) of incidents reported. ▪ An incident involved a coyote with mange chasing a man after the caller ran from the coyote. • Out of 67 coyote related reports, 49 (73%) reports were updated to the correct behavior types. o 23 sightings updated to wild sick (Due to mange) o Residents are mistaking coyotes with mange for dogs ▪ 7 stray injured dogs updated to wild sick coyotes ▪ 5 stray roam dogs updated to wild sick coyotes ▪ 1 stray sick dog …
July 2024 Travis County Coyote Report Prepared by: Emery Sadkin Total number of Coyote Calls: 2 Coyote Calls by Behavior Type July 2024 1 0 Sighting 0 0 Encounter Incident Obseravtion Behavior Type Figure 1. Coyote activity by behavior. Out of 2 coyote related reports, 1 fell within the reported behavior types (Sighting, Incident, Encounter and Observation) Coyote Calls by Precinct July 2024 s t r o p e R e t o y o C f o r e b m u N 1.2 1 0.8 0.6 0.4 0.2 0 s t r o p e R e t o y o C f o r e b m u N 2.5 1.5 0.5 2 1 0 Wild Speak Wild Sick Wild Injured Obseravtion Incident Encounter Sighting P1 P2 P3 P4 Precinct Figure 2. Coyote reports by precinct. All coyote reports took place in P2. Sick and Injured Coyote calls by Behavior Type July 2024 1 1.2 1 0.8 0.6 0.4 0.2 s t o r p e R e t o y o C f o r e b m u N 0 0 Wild Injured Wild Sick Behavior Type 0 Wild Speak Figure 3. Out of 2 coyote related reports, 1 report fell within the reported behavior types. Behavior types including Wild Sick, Wild Speak, Wild Injured. “Wild Speak” is defined as a resident not seeing the coyote (Example: Reporting for a neighbor) or having questions regarding coyotes. Location Where Activity Took Place July 2024 Neighborhood 100% Figure 4. Type of location where activity took place, based on confirmed reports. “Habitat Fragment” is defined as a natural area adjacent to human habitation, which could include dense vegetation, creek beds, greenbelt areas, and other undeveloped land not habituated by humans. “Open field” is defined as an area where vegetation is cleared for industrial or commercial use. “Greenbelt” is defined as a belt of parkways, parks, or farmlands that encircles a community. “House Property” defined as a sighting on side of house, rather than front or backyard. “Building Strip” defined as a series of shops within a strip. Potential Attractants July 2024 50% 50% Open Field Greenbelt Figure 5. Potential attractants which could help explain coyote presence in the location of reported activity. “Habitat Fragment” is defined as a natural area adjacent to human habitation, which could include dense vegetation, greenbelts, or another undeveloped greenspace. “Human Source” is defined …
July 2024 Travis County Wildlife Report Prepared by: Emery Sadkin Total number of Wildlife calls: 38 Wildlife Related Activities s t r o p e R e f i l d l i W f o # 18 16 14 12 10 8 6 4 2 0 Investigate Exposure Wild Injured Wild Speak Wild Sick Wild Confined Assist Fire Assist Storm Drain Activities Figure 1. Wildlife Related Activities that took place in Travis County. Type of Wildlife Picked Up e f i l d l i W f o e p y T Duck/Goose Hawk Fox Deer Snake Skunk Rabbit Opossum Bird Raccoon Bat 1 1 1 3 2 2 2 4 4 4 7 11 0 2 6 8 10 12 # of wildlife species P4 P3 P2 P1 Figure 2. Type of Wildlife that was involved in activities that took place, based on confirmed reports. “Other” refers to wildlife such as armadillos, porcupines, ring-tailed cat, etc. Jurisdiction Where Activity Took Place 1 1 1 2 35 Travis Bee Caves Manor Pflugerville Rollingwood Figure 3. Where wildlife activity was reported based on Jurisdiction within Travis County.
Strategic Planning Update to Animal Advisory Commission Stephanie Hayden-Howard | Assistant City Manager Audrey Muntz, Budget and Performance Manager Dr. Larry Schooler, Consultant August 12, 2024 What’s Happened so far STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEWS & LISTENING SESSIONS PUBLIC SURVEY (2000+ RESPONSES) CONVENING OF WORKING GROUP Assessment Phase Stakeholder Engagement • ASO Strategic Plan SpeakUp Page went live on July 17th survey • Includes process overview and community • Will be updated throughout process • Additional input opportunities will be posted on this page in the Fall • More than 13k views to date • Community Survey open until August 14th • Survey open from July 17th to August 14th • More than 2k participants to date Strategic Plan Updates Assessment Phase Stakeholder Engagement • ASO Leadership Interviews • Completed in July • 9 participants • ASO Staff Listening Sessions • Underway, Complete on August 15th • 90+ staff participants (attended/scheduled to attend) • ASO Volunteer Listening Sessions • Completed August 10th • 40 volunteer participants • External Stakeholder Interviews • External Stakeholder Listening Session • Planning underway • Reviewed previous stakeholder engagement outputs from the City Auditor and ASO Strategic Planning Updates 4 Working Group Participants • Animal Commission Members • Austin Lost and Found • Austin Pets Alive • Classic Canines • City of Austin Staff • Emancipet • Humane Society • Travis County • TRAPRS • Individual Community Advocates: • Pat Valles-Trelles • Shelly Leibham Strategic Planning Update 5 Working Group Meeting • Dr. Schooler facilitated first working group meeting on August 7th • All partners attended Strategic Planning Update 6 Working Group's Work So Far • Building relationships, mutual respect, and trust • Forming group agreements • Defining expectations and intentions • Understanding stakeholders • Identifying “the elephants in the room” Upcoming Meetings • Meeting #2: Thursday, Aug 29, 4pm-8pm (confirmed) • Potential topic: What are our overarching goals for Animal Services, and what assets can we leverage? • Meeting #3: Thursday, Sep 5, 3p-7pm (tentative) • Potential topic: How do we chart a course to the future state we want? What could we achieve in the short term? • Meeting #4: Tuesday, Sep 17, 12pm-4pm (tentative) • Potential topic: How do all of the pieces fit together? What should we prioritize? How will we know we are successful? Possible Framework #1 • Appreciative Inquiry Possible Framework #2 • Strategic Doing • Courtesy Strategic Doing Institute Next Steps • …
ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES AUGUST 12, 2024 The Animal Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on August 12, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd St in Austin, Texas. Chair Clinton called the Animal Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Ryan Clinton, Chair, Travis County Sarah Huddleston, D9 Larry Tucker, D7 Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Ann Linder, Vice Chair, D3 Nancy Nemer, Parliamentarian, Travis County Luis Herrera, D6 Laura Hoke, Mayor’s Appointee Whitney Holt, D5 Lotta Smagula, D1 Commissioners Absent: Amanda Bruce, D10 Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Paige Nilson, D4 PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Tracey B – Foster/TNR Rochelle Vickery – Spay and Neuter Kristyn Williams – TNR/Rescue/Medical Vouchers APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. 1 Approve the minutes of the Animal Advisory Commission Regular Meeting on July 8, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of July 8, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Nemer’s motion, Vice Chair Linder’s second on a 7-0 vote. Chair Clinton and Commissioner Holt abstained. Commissioners Bruce, Dulzaides, and Nilson were absent. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports provided by the Animal Service Center. The presentation was made by Don Bland, Chief Animal Services Officer, Austin Animal Services. Commissioner Smagula requested that Animal Services staff provide additional information related to the July 2024 Animal Deaths at AAC/Foster charts in the Austin Animal Center July 2024 Data Report. Vice Chair Linder requested that Animal Services staff provide information on the number of clinics accepting medical vouchers and the average wait times for intake of sick/injured and healthy animals. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of the Animal Services strategic plan and planning process. A presentation was made by Stephanie Hayden-Howard, Assistant City Manager; Audrey Muntz, Budget and Performance Manager, Financial Services; Dr. Larry Schooler, Consultant. Commissioner Holt recused herself from the discussion. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS None. A motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:51 p.m. was approved on Commissioner Huddleston’s motion, Commissioner Hoke’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Bruce, Dulzaides, and Nilson were absent. The minutes were approved at the October 14, 2024, meeting on Commissioner Holt’s motion, Commissioner Smagula’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Nilson abstained. Commissioner Dulzaides was absent. 2
REGULAR MEETING of the EARLY CHILDHOOD COUNCIL AUGUST 10, 2024, 10:00 A.M. AUSTIN ENERGY HEADQUARTERS, CAPITAL TRAINING ROOM #1133 4815 MUELLER BOULEVARD AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Early Childhood Council 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 Caitlin Oliver, Program Coordinator, Austin Public Health, at 512-972-6205 or Caitlin.Oliver@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Cathy McHorse, Chair Corie Cormie John Green-Otero Cynthia McCollum Brianna Menard Casie Schennum Leonor Vargas Choquette Hamilton, Vice Chair Eliza Gordon Tom Hedrick Andrea McIllwain Alice Navarro Ellana Selig AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first five speakers to register 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. 1. Approve the minutes of the Early Childhood Council Regular Meeting on June 12, 2024 APPROVAL OF MINUTES DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Discussion and possible action to approve a recommendation regarding the City of Austin Economic Development Department’s Place-Based Enhancement Program recommendations 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 9. Updates from Vice Chair Dr. Choquette Hamilton about the Affordable Childcare Now Coalition and vote to approve a recommendation to endorse the Affordable Childcare Now Coalition Possible action to appoint a new liaison to the Joint Inclusion Committee Vote to update the ECC Quality-of-Life (QoL) Study Workgroup membership WORKING GROUP UPDATES DISCUSSION ITEMS Updates from the ECC QoL Study Workgroup regarding the first meeting with the study vendor and next meeting with the vendor on August 16, 2024 Updates from Member Tom Hedrick about the early childhood-related items included in the proposed City of Austin Fiscal Year 2025 budget 8. Updates regarding the Success By 6 (SX6) Coalition strategic plan STAFF BRIEFINGS Updates from Caitlin Oliver, Austin Public Health (APH), regarding related local early childhood groups such as Austin Chapter of the Texas Association for the Education of Young Children, Austin ISD, Child Care Regulation, and Travis County FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Early Childhood Council 20240810-002: Place-Based Enhancement Program WHEREAS, there is urgent need for affordable small business space; and WHEREAS, according to the Economic Development Department, asking rents have increased by 7.7% year over year, a historic high for the market; and WHEREAS, high cost of rent is a critical factor contributing to the financial instability of childcare programs; and WHEREAS, the Place-Based Enhancement Program Proposal includes recommendations to encourage affordable commercial space for community development projects including childcare; and WHEREAS, although a percentage of childcare programs who meet specific standards related to enrollment of children relying on public subsidy and quality qualify for property tax exemption, the majority of programs in Austin do not qualify for the exemption; and WHEREAS, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the prevailing wage for the childcare workforce in Texas is $14.16. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Early Childhood Council encourages the Austin City Council to adopt the Placed-Based Enhancement Program recommendations without requiring a living wage standard for all employees. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Early Childhood Council 20240810-003: Recommendation Supporting Affordable Child Care Now WHEREAS, for decades, families in Travis County have struggled to find affordable, quality child care and afterschool and summer programming for children birth to high school graduation (henceforth referred to as “child care”); and WHEREAS, child care is the highest expense for families after housing in Travis County. And one year of child care costs more than one year of tuition at the University of Texas at Austin; and WHEREAS, the current waiting list for families with low income who need child care subsidies has more than 4,600 children on it, enrollment is closed, and there is now a 2-year waiting list period; and WHEREAS, child care costs are out of reach for many families in Travis County. While families cannot afford the current prices, child care tuition rarely covers the true cost of providing a high-quality program. Costs for quality child care programs (including paying staff a living wage) have increased but families cannot afford to pay more; and WHEREAS, the child care and out-of-school time workforce, predominantly women of color, earns less than a living wage resulting in high turnover (over 30% annually) and under-staffed programs serving fewer children and cutting hours. Turnover hurts children and creates stress for families; and WHEREAS, families rely on affordable quality child care to participate in and complete education, training programs, or the workforce; and WHEREAS, child care and out of school time challenges particularly impact individuals and communities of color that have been historically excluded from economic prosperity: • 81% of children under age 6 receiving child care subsidies in Travis County are Black, Hispanic, or non-white/multi-racial. • The share of Travis County children under age 6 in working families who have parents working nontraditional hours is 47.1% Black and 42.1% Hispanic. • The child care workforce in Texas is overwhelmingly female and 62% are either Black or Hispanic. WHEREAS, A local investment in affordable quality child care and out of school time programs will result in better outcomes for children, greater workforce participation, family economic stability and a stronger economy; and WHEREAS, Quality afterschool and summer programs increase youth’s academic skills and skill development for future careers, improve school day attendance, support positive mental and physical health, and support working families by providing a safe environment for youth when school is out; and WHEREAS, With the high cost …
A broad coalition convened by United Way for Greater Austin that comprises of Travis County civic organizations, businesses, and community members who support equitable access to affordable, quality childcare for all. August 2024 Timeline ECC Actions April 2023 - Children’s Funding Project Overview January 10, 2024 – Cost model of child care in Austin – Travis County March 20, 2024 – Children’s Funding Project Presentation April 16, Resolution to endorse Children’s Funding Project Workgroup Recommendations May 14th Travis County Commissioners Approve Travis County CARES Resolution June 25 Travis County Commissioners Briefing, Discussion and Vote August 13 Public Hearing and Commissioners Court Vote Travis County CARES Resolution Creating Access for Resilient Families Overview of Strategic Investments in Childcare Benefits of Quality Childcare The Case for Significant Investments in Childcare ➔ Workforce ➔ Affordability ➔ Accessibility ➔ School Readiness ➔ Ongoing School Success ➔ Market Failure ➔ Equity ➔ Social Returns “It’s time to start treating childcare as essential infrastructure — just as worthy of funding as roads and fiber optic cables.” Melinda Gates, 2021 Background: ➔ Success By 6 ATX ➔ Children’s Funding Project (CFP) ➔ Learn All the Time (LATT) Network 9 Goals & Guiding Principles ➔ Increase Access ➔ Increase Access ➔ Improve Affordability ➔ Improve Affordability ➔ Invest in Quality ➔ Invest in Quality ➔ Grow the Workforce ➔ Grow the Workforce ➔ Strengthen the System ➔ Strengthen the System Adapted from Travis County Court Briefing ➔ Ground Solutions in Data ➔ Ground Solutions in Data ➔ Seek Equity ➔ Seek Equity ➔ Leverage Existing Assets ➔ Leverage Existing Assets ➔ Ensure Accountability and ➔ Ensure Accountability and Efficiency Efficiency Recommended Strategies for Investment Adapted from Travis County Court Briefing ➔ Expand Slots Early Childhood Afterschool/Summer ➔ Expand care in early ◆ ◆ morning, evening and weekend hours ➔ Build quality and capacity Early Childhood Afterschool/Summer ➔ Create a Business- ◆ ◆ Government Alliance Strategy 1: Expanded Slots Early Childhood ➔ Expand access with funding to create additional capacity through contracts Guaranteed capacity ◆ ➔ Focus on full-day, year-round care (birth through age 3 years) ➔ Supplement subsidy funding for infants and toddlers to match cost of quality Adapted from Children’s Funding Project Work Group | 2024 Strategy 1: Expanded Slots Afterschool / Summer ➔ Expand access with funding to create additional capacity through contracts for new sites or additional slots at existing sites for youth in least …
