DOWNTOWN COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240221-003 Date: February 21, 2024 Subject: Austin Convention Center Expansion Recommendation The Downtown Commission recommends that Austin City Council adopt the Music Commission recommendation that directs Convention Center Staff to create a Convention Center Expansion Advisory Board, consisting of stakeholders from the art, music, and other relevant communities and industries, to provide critical input for expansion planning. We further recommend that the Austin City Council direct the Music Commission to include a member of the Downtown Commission, to be chosen by the Downtown Commission Chairman, on the Convention Center Expansion Advisory Board. Description of Recommendation to Council Convention Center staff has announced plans for a comprehensive public information campaign for the expansion. As part of this public outreach, the Downtown Commission recommends that an advisory board be formed to provide community insight for this significant downtown project. Precedent is set by the South-Central Waterfront redevelopment, I-35 expansion, and Project Connect anti-displacement initiative – current public projects which benefit from project-specific community advisory boards or committees. This motion is based on study and recommendation from the Joint Arts & Music Urban Core Land Use Working Group. Rationale: • The convention center expansion will be financed by over $1 billion in public funds • The Convention Center expansion is a landmark capital project with tremendous potential for public benefits to Austin, including increased tourism revenue, exceptional public spaces, and robust programming. • City of Austin Music and Cultural grant programs are funded by Hotel Occupancy Taxes, which are directly impacted by Convention Center operations. • The adjacent publicly owned Palm School parcel holds significant historic and cultural importance, especially to Austin’s Latinx community. • The Convention Center should set itself apart and above competing facilities by leveraging and strengthening Austin’s status as a thriving mecca for creativity, arts, music, and diverse culture. • Stakeholder input from Austin’s diverse communities will enhance expansion planning vision and help the new Austin Convention Center become unique world-class destination attracting visitors from across the US and the world. Vote For: 7 (Chair Harris, Vice Chair Ishmael, Commissioners Weaver, Coufal, Major, Levinson and Shifferd) Against: 0 1 of 1
South Central Waterfront Combining District & Density Bonus Program Downtown Commission February 21, 2024 History Combining District Density Bonus Program - Bonus Program Opt-in Requirements - Fees-in-Lieu - Additional On-Site Community Benefits Timeline & Ways to Provide Feedback South Central Waterfront Vision Framework Plan Adopted June 6, 2016 5 City Council Resolution 20220915-090 ▪ Directed Planning Staff to create regulations supporting implementation of the 2016 South Central Waterfront Vision Framework Plan. ▪ Program to be re-evaluated/updated at least every five years. ▪ Increased development square footage only available through the Density Bonus Program. ▪ Maximize community benefits: affordable housing, open space, and ▪ Maximize infrastructure investments: new streets, parks, bikeways, public art, etc. and trails. 6 City Council Resolution 20220915-090 ▪ Create a Density Bonus Program “akin” to Downtown. ▪ Support Project Connect transit investment. ▪ Allow entitlements significant enough to achieve required infrastructure and community benefits. ▪ Ensure entitlements meet market demand to account for increased costs and avoid continual requests to amend the code. ▪ Create enhanced environmental standards and protections. 7 City Council Resolution 20220915-090 Create a connected, pedestrian-oriented, mixed-use district where “thousands more Austinites can live, work, and play.” 8 Updates / Changes ▪ First re-evaluation will occur sooner than 5 years to account for updated details from Project Connect and citywide density bonus analysis. ▪ The SCW regulations will be implemented by: – Council adoption an optional set of regulations and bonus program through the creation of a Combining District and a Density Bonus Program (spring 2024). – City-initiated rezoning of properties in the district (summer 2024). – Subsequent rezonings and code amendments will be required to add additional properties at a later date. 9 Combining District Components ▪ General Provisions (Policies, procedures, and who can participate) ▪ Land Use Standards (Permitted and conditional land uses) ▪ Development Standards (What will be built and where) ▪ Design Standards (How it will look) ▪ Definitions 10 Density Bonus Components ▪ Procedures/Requirements ▪ “Gate Keeper” Requirements – Affordable Housing – Environmental Protection – Improved Streetscape and Built Environment ▪ In-Lieu Fees and Dedications ▪ Onsite Community Benefits Eligible for Bonus Area 11 District Boundary New parcels added that are affected by Project Connect lightrail alignment. Project Connect Rail Alignment 12 Streets and Light Rail 13 Subdistricts Council approval is required to exceed FAR maximums 14 Critical Water Quality Zones 15 Land Uses ▪ Permitted land uses support: …
Crime Intelligence Analysis Unit Data provided by: Austin Police Department: Crime Intelligence Analysis Unit Date delivered: Request: Compiled by: Requested by: Information Request: Date Data Compiled: Sources used: 2/14/2024 DTAC Crime Trends Edward R. Anderson, Ph.D. Commander Jeff Olson 2/12/2024 Versadex RMS Provide crime trends for a period of 3-5 years for DTAC Overall crime trends for DTAC DATES: January 2019 – December 2023 ANALYSIS Overall crime incidents in DTAC dropped dramatically between February and April 2020 at the time of the COVID lockdown. Two distinct patterns are evident the corresponding to pre- and post-pandemic periods. in trend data, While overall crime incidents in the downtown Austin area have increased over the past two years, they remain below pre- pandemic levels. Month-to-month fluctuations in crime incidents are normal and to be expected, although there are notable spikes every March (denoted by stars on the graph), except for the two years when there were no in-person South by Southwest events. About 15 crime incidents occurred on any given day in DTAC during 2023. Average daily number of crime incidents in DTAC 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 19.6 13.5 14.2 14.5 15.4 Comparison of crime types DATES: January 2019 – December 2023 ANALYSIS A similar pattern holds regardless of crime type: crime incidents in 2023 are comparable to, or somewhat higher than 2022, but are below pre-pandemic levels: • The daily rate of Crimes Against Persons in 2023 (3.8 per day) is similar to the 2022 rate (3.9 per day). • Crimes Against Property have increased in 2023 (7.0 per day) compared to 2022 (6.7 per day) but remain well below pre-pandemic levels (8.6 per day in 2019). • Similar patterns are seen for Crimes Against Society and Group B Crimes. Simple assault and theft remain the most common crimes in the downtown area. Pocket-picking has been increasing in recent years and is now the third most common crime in the downtown area. Crimes trending upward DATES: January 2019 – December 2023 ANALYSIS: Pocket picking Two crime types have shown consistent upward trends over recent years. The monthly rate of pickpocketing has increased over the past year to rates higher than even pre-pandemic levels. The 52 pickpocketing incidents in March 2022 was higher than any observed in the previous 38 months. Although there were fewer pickpocketing incidents in March 2023 (37 incidents), higher monthly incidents occurred throughout much of the year. ANALYSIS: …
SXSW Conference & Spring Festivals 2024 Austin Police Department – Downtown Area Command SXSW OVERVIEW • March 8th - March 16th, 2024 • The 2023 SXSW Conference & Festivals and SXSW EDU drew approximately 345,066 people • ~60 venues have authorized SXSW Activations • Numerous unauthorized activations STAFFING • DTAC Days: Staffed at 100% + for the duration of SXSW. • DTAC Evenings/Nights: Staffed at 100% + for the duration of SXSW. • Inside 6th - Designated patrol area inside the 6th Street/Red River enclosure. (Call takers). • Outside 6th - Designated patrol area outside the 6th Street enclosure • Additional patrols for Congress Ave, Warehouse District, W 6th St District, and Rainey District. DTAC Call Takers • Overtime officers are hired to support call taking duties outside 6th St/Red River closure. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES • Standard police operations • Street Closures/Barricade Officers – APD/Other Central Texas LE Agencies • Towing enforcement Shifts • Additional Call taking Shifts • PACE Teams – Code Enforcement • Traffic Congestion Shift • Sound Enforcement – 2 officers per day A TEAM EFFORT • In addition to the officers assigned to the Downtown Area Command, officers from all over the department will assist during Spring Festival Season to ensure public safety throughout the event: • Counter Assault Strike Team (CAST) • Mounted • EOD (Bomb Squad) • Special response Team (SRT) • Organized Crime Division (OCD) • Metro Tactical Units 2023 SPRING FESTIVAL SEASON VIOLENT CRIME INITIATIVE The 2023 Spring Festival Season Violent Crime Initiative was a joint effort from the Austin Police Department (APD) Violent Crimes Interdiction Unit, Organized Crime Division, Tactical Intelligence Unit, and Metro Tactical Units, the Downtown Area Command and the Special Response Team. The initiative ran between March 8th - March 18th, 2023. This initiative yielded: • 131 Arrests/61 Seized Firearms • Seized Narcotics: 3.5 kg cocaine, 26.6 kg of methamphetamine, 41.38 g fentanyl/heroin, and 90 pounds of marijuana. From March 15th – March 18th,2023 (last weekend on E 6th St/Red River St) the Special Response Team and the Downtown Area Command had : • 77 Arrests/26 Seized Firearms • Seized Narcotics: 26.69 g cocaine, 31.32 g methamphetamine, 8.15g fentanyl UNIFIED COMMAND • SXSW Representatives • Austin PD • Austin FD • ATCEMS • COA Homeland Security Emergency Management (HSEM) • COA Transportation • COA Code Enforcement • COA Public Information Office (PIO) • Austin Regional Intelligence Center (ARIC) …
Vehicle Safety Mitigation Plan Event Details Austin TX 6th Street Closure Unknown Street fair Chris Juusola Austin TX Meridian Contact Michael Bochsler • Secure access points • Protect pedestrian activities Event Name Event Date Event Type Contact Location Objectives Additional Considerations Creation Date 1/11/2024 SUPPORT@MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM 434.529.6903 WWW.MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM Guidance on utilizing the Meridian VSMP: Orientation: Each deployment location is visualized as an aerial view represented in a compass north orientation followed by a ground-level view represented from the perspective of on-coming traffic (unless otherwise noted). Barriers and beam gates will be deployed with the ramp facing in the direction of the potential threat. Barrier placement is specifically designed to account for stopping distance as well as to take advantage of adjacent physical structures which will further support effective mitigation. Please Note: This Assessment utilizes satellite imagery and street views provided by a third-Party and represents Meridian’s estimate based upon incomplete knowledge and a lack of familiarity with the proposed closure locations. Meridian recommends an on-site examination by a Company Representative in order to provide a certified hostile vehicle mitigation plan and solutions. The Assessment reflects the planned closures at the time of publishing and may be superseded by updated plans. Please ensure that updates are disseminated to the appropriate stakeholders. This vehicle mitigation plan is created for internal use only by Meridian and its customers. Plans may not be distributed to outside agencies without permission. SUPPORT@MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM 434.529.6903 WWW.MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM Deployment Locations D E F C B A SUPPORT@MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM 434.529.6903 WWW.MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM Location : A E 6th Street east of Brazos Street Distance 40 Feet Equipment 1 – Barrier 1 – Beam Gate 1 – 4’ Cable 2 – Cable Covers Note : Deployment is subject to change based on site circumstances SUPPORT@MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM 434.529.6903 WWW.MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM 12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031323334353637383940 Location : B San Jacinto Blvd north of 6th Street Distance 58 Feet Equipment 9 – Barriers 8 – 4’ Cables 16 – Cable Covers Note : Deployment is subject to change based on site circumstances SUPPORT@MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM 434.529.6903 WWW.MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM 12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031323334353637383940414243444546474849505152535455565758 Location : C San Jacinto Blvd south of 6th Street Distance 42 Feet Equipment 9 – Barriers 8 – 4’ Cables 16 – Cable Covers Note : Deployment is subject to change based on site circumstances SUPPORT@MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM 434.529.6903 WWW.MERIDIAN-BARRIER.COM 12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031323334353637383940414243444546474849505152535455565758 Location : D Trinity Street north of 6th Street Distance 45 Feet Equipment 7 – Barriers 6 – 4’ Cables 12 – Cable Covers Note : Deployment is …
South Central Waterfront Combining District & Density Bonus Program Downtown Commission February 21, 2024 History Combining District Density Bonus Program - Bonus Program Opt-in Requirements - Fees-in-Lieu - Additional On-Site Community Benefits Timeline & Ways to Provide Feedback South Central Waterfront Vision Framework Plan Adopted June 6, 2016 5 City Council Resolution 20220915-090 ▪ Directed Planning Staff to create regulations supporting implementation of the 2016 South Central Waterfront Vision Framework Plan. ▪ Program to be re-evaluated/updated at least every five years. ▪ Increased development only available through the Density Bonus Program. public art, etc. and trails. ▪ Maximize community benefits: affordable housing, open space, and ▪ Maximize infrastructure investments: new streets, parks, bikeways, 6 City Council Resolution 20220915-090 ▪ Create a Density Bonus Program “akin” to Downtown. ▪ Support Project Connect transit investment. ▪ Allow entitlements significant enough to achieve required infrastructure and community benefits. ▪ Ensure entitlements meet market demand to account for increased costs and avoid continual requests to amend the code. ▪ Create enhanced environmental standards and protections. 7 City Council Resolution 20220915-090 Create a connected, pedestrian-oriented, mixed-use district where “thousands more Austinites can live, work, and play.” 8 Updates / Changes ▪ The SCW regulations will be implemented by: – Council adoption of an optional set of regulations and bonus program through the creation of a Combining District and a Density Bonus Program (spring 2024). – City-initiated rezoning of properties in the district (summer 2024). – Subsequent rezonings and code amendments will be required to add additional properties at a later date. ▪ Regulation review will occur sooner than 5 years to account for updated details from Project Connect and citywide density bonus analysis. 9 Combining District Components ▪ General Provisions (Policies, procedures, and who can participate) ▪ Land Use Standards (Permitted and conditional land uses) ▪ Development Standards (What can be built and where) ▪ Design Standards (How it will look) ▪ Definitions 10 Density Bonus Components ▪ Procedures/Requirements ▪ “Gate Keeper” Requirements – Affordable Housing – Environmental Protection – Improved Streetscape and Built Environment ▪ In-Lieu Fees and Dedications ▪ Onsite Community Benefits Eligible for Bonus Area 11 District Boundary New parcels added that are affected by Project Connect light rail alignment. Project Connect Rail Alignment 12 Streets and Light Rail 13 Subdistricts Council approval is required to exceed FAR maximums 14 Critical Water Quality Zones 15 Land Uses ▪ Permitted land uses support: …
DOWNTOWN COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240221-002 Date: February 21, 2024 Subject: Austin Convention Center Expansion Recommendation The Downtown Commission recommends that Austin City Council adopt the Music Commission recommendation that directs Convention Center Staff to create a Convention Center Expansion Advisory Board, consisting of stakeholders from the art, music, and other relevant communities and industries, to provide critical input for expansion planning. We further recommend that the Austin City Council direct the Music Commission to include a member of the Downtown Commission, to be chosen by the Downtown Commission Chairman, on the Convention Center Expansion Advisory Board. Description of Recommendation to Council Convention Center staff has announced plans for a comprehensive public information campaign for the expansion. As part of this public outreach, the Downtown Commission recommends that an advisory board be formed to provide community insight for this significant downtown project. Precedent is set by the South-Central Waterfront redevelopment, I-35 expansion, and Project Connect anti-displacement initiative – current public projects which benefit from project-specific community advisory boards or committees. This motion is based on study and recommendation from the Joint Arts & Music Urban Core Land Use Working Group. Rationale: • The convention center expansion will be financed by over $1 billion in public funds • The Convention Center expansion is a landmark capital project with tremendous potential for public benefits to Austin, including increased tourism revenue, exceptional public spaces, and robust programming. • City of Austin Music and Cultural grant programs are funded by Hotel Occupancy Taxes, which are directly impacted by Convention Center operations. • The adjacent publicly owned Palm School parcel holds significant historic and cultural importance, especially to Austin’s Latinx community. • The Convention Center should set itself apart and above competing facilities by leveraging and strengthening Austin’s status as a thriving mecca for creativity, arts, music, and diverse culture. • Stakeholder input from Austin’s diverse communities will enhance expansion planning vision and help the new Austin Convention Center become unique world-class destination attracting visitors from across the US and the world. Vote For:6-Chair Harris, Vice Chair Ishmael, Commissioners Cardona-Beiler, Coufal, Levinson, and Ortega Off Dais: Commissioners Lavigne and Shifferd Absent: Commissioner Major Against: 0 Christi Vitela attest 1 of 1
Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 21, 2024 DOWNTOWN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, February 21, 2024 The Downtown Commission convened the regular meeting on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd Street in hybrid meeting format. COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE August Harris, Chair Ralph E Ishmael, Jr. Vice-Chair Liz Coufal Mike Lavigne Kimberly Levinson Spencer Schumacher Sania D. Shifferd COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY Darilynn Cardona-Beiler Jennifer Franklin David Holmes Amy Mok Tania Ortega Ann Charlotte Patterson CALL TO ORDER Chair Harris called the meeting of the Downtown Commission to order at 5:32 pm APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission January 17, 2024 meeting. The minutes from the meeting on 01/17/24 were approved on Commissioner Levinson’s motion, Vice Chair Ishmael’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Lavigne and Shifferd were off the dais. Commissioner Major was absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM 1 Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 21, 2024 2. Approve a recommendation to Council to prioritize community engagement with regards to the Convention Center expansion. The motion to approve Recommendation 20240221-002 to create a Convention Center Expansion Advisory Board was approved on Commissioner Levinson’s motion, Commissioner Coufal’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Lavigne and Shifferd were off the dais. Commissioner Major was absent. 3. Approve a recommendation on the renewal of the Sixth Street Public Improvement District. Presentation by Donald E Jackson of the Economic Development Department. The motion to postpone this item to 3/20/2024 was approved on Commissioner Levinson’s motion, Vice Chair Ishmael’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Lavigne and Shifferd were off the dais. Commissioner Major was absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Presentation by Commander Jeff Olson of the Austin Police Department on Downtown Command public safety trends. Presentation was given by Commander Jeff Olson, Downtown Area Command Unit, Austin Police Department. 5. Presentations by Commander Jeff Olson of the Austin Police Department (APD), William Manno of the Austin Center for Events, Brian Block of the Development Services Department, and Division Chief Stephen Truesdell of the Austin Fire Department (AFD) on South by Southwest Festival 2024 preparedness. Presentations were given by Commander Jeff Olson, Downtown Area Command Unit, Austin Police Department; Lieutenant Christopher Juusola, Austin Police Department; Brian Patterson, Fire Battalion Chief, Special Events; and Bill Manno, Program Manager, Office of Special Events. 6. Presentation on the status of Austin Light Rail by Peter Mullan, EVP Architecture and Urban Design, Lindsay …
DOWNTOWN COMMISSION JANUARY 17, 2024, TIME: 5:30 p.m. Austin City Hall, Council Chamber, Room 1001 301 W 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Downtown 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, please contact Christine Maguire at Christine.maguire@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-7131. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: August Harris (Chair) Jen Weaver (District 1) Tania A. Ortega (District 2) Liz Coufal (District 3) Ralph E. Ishmael, Jr. (District 4) Darilynn Cardona-Beiler (District 5) Taylor Major (District 6) Mike Lavigne (District 7) Vacant (District 8) Kimberly Levinson (District 9) Sania D. Shifferd (Mayor) CALL TO ORDER Marissa McKinney (Design Commission) David Holmes (Public Safety Commission) Amy Mok (Arts Commission) Spencer Schumacher (Urban Transportation) Jennifer Franklin (Parks and Recreation Board) Carl J. Larosche (Historic Landmark Commission) Anne Charlotte Patterson (Music) AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission November 20, 2023 meeting. DISCUSSION AND POSSILE ACTION ITEM 2. Discussion and possible action for the Commission to draft a resolution to Council to prioritize community engagement with regards to the Convention Center expansion. DISCUSSION ITEMS Planning Department. 3. A briefing and discussion on the Palm District Plan to be given by Stevie Greathouse of the 4. A briefing and discussion on the Seaholm District Multimodal Connectivity Projects to be given by Laura Dierenfield of the Transportation and Public Works Department. 5. Update and discussion regarding action related to the Downtown Commission taken at the December 11, 2023 and January 8, 2024 Arts Commission meetings. 6. Update and discussion regarding action related to the Downtown Commission taken at the last Historic Landmark Commission meeting. 7. Update and discussion regarding action related to the Downtown Commission taken at the December 4, 2023 and January 8, 2024 Music Commission meetings. 8. Update and discussion regarding action related to the Downtown Commission taken at the last …
DOWNTOWN COMMISSION JANUARY 17, 2024, TIME: 5:30 p.m. Austin City Hall, Council Chamber, Room 1001 301 W 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Downtown 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, please contact Christine Maguire at Christine.maguire@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-7131. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: August Harris (Chair) Jen Weaver (District 1) Tania A. Ortega (District 2) Liz Coufal (District 3) Ralph E. Ishmael, Jr. (District 4) Darilynn Cardona-Beiler (District 5) Taylor Major (District 6) Mike Lavigne (District 7) Vacant (District 8) Kimberly Levinson (District 9) Sania D. Shifferd (Mayor) CALL TO ORDER Marissa McKinney (Design Commission) David Holmes (Public Safety Commission) Amy Mok (Arts Commission) Spencer Schumacher (Urban Transportation) Jennifer Franklin (Parks and Recreation Board) Carl J. Larosche (Historic Landmark Commission) Anne Charlotte Patterson (Music) REVISED AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission November 20, 2023 meeting. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM DISCUSSION ITEMS Department. 2. Discussion and possible action for the Commission to draft a recommendation to Council to prioritize community engagement with regards to the Convention Center expansion. 3. A presentation on the Palm District Plan to be given by Stevie Greathouse of the Planning 4. A presentation on the Seaholm District Multimodal Connectivity Projects to be given by Laura Dierenfield of the Transportation and Public Works Department. 5. Update and discussion regarding action related to the Downtown Commission taken at the December 11, 2023 and January 8, 2024 Arts Commission meetings. 6. Update and discussion regarding action related to the Downtown Commission taken at the last Historic Landmark Commission meeting. 7. Update and discussion regarding action related to the Downtown Commission taken at the December 4, 2023 and January 8, 2024 Music Commission meetings. 8. Update and discussion regarding action related to the Downtown Commission taken at the last Parks & Recreation Board …
The Downtown Commission convened a meeting on Monday, November 20, 2023, at 301 W. 2nd Street in hybrid meeting format. DOWNTOWN COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MONDAY, NOVMEBER 20, 2023 COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE: Sania D. Shifferd August Harris, Chair Tania Ortega Darilynn Cardona-Beiler Amy Mok Taylor Major Ann Charlotte Patterson Jen Weaver Spencer Schumacher Kimberly Levinson CITY STAFF IN ATTENDANCE: Christi Vitela, Office of the City Clerk Christine Maguire, Economic Development Department CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called the meeting to order at 5:31 pm APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission October 18, 2023, Regular meeting. a. A motion to approve the minutes was made by Commissioner Levinson and seconded by Commissioner Taylor on a vote of (7-0) 2. Rachel Castignoli and Kirk Scanlon of the Transportation and Public Works Department gave a briefing on the city’s autonomous vehicle working group. BRIEFINGS a. No action was taken. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Cody Scott of the Austin Public Library Department presented on the Austin Public Library’s Heating and Cooling initiative. a. No action was taken. 4. Discussion of recent activities and actions taken by the Arts Commission. a. Commissioner Mok did not have an update at this time. 5. Discussion of recent activities and actions taken by the Music Commission. a. Commissioner Ann Charlotte Patterson updated the Commission on discussions and actions by the Music Commission related to: i. Commission took action to recommend to Council to direct Convention Center staff to create an advisory board for the convention center expansion 6. Discussion of recent activities and actions taken by the Urban Transportation Commission (UTC) a. Commissioner Schumacher updated the commission on discussions and actions by the Urban Transportation Commission related to: i. Council recommended amendments to City parking code and will be an option for presentation to the Downtown Commission ii. Bike parking update to the Criteria Manual in 2024 FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 7. Bike parking updates to the Title 25 of the Land Development Code ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 6:58 pm without any objection.
REGULAR MEETING of the URBAN TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION TUESDAY DECEMBER 5, 2023, at 5:00pm BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 CITY HALL- 301 W 2nd St. AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Urban Transportation 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 by 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. To register please call or email the staff liaison in advance at (512)-974-3428 or natalie.leone@austintexas.gov no later than noon on Monday December 4, with the following information: name, item number(s) to speak on, telephone number, and email address. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Vacant - (District 1) Melissa Ortiz- (District 2) Arlin Alvarez- (District 3) Susan Somers, Chair- (District 4) Daniel Kavelman-( District 5) Edward Smith- (District 6) Diana Wheeler- (District 7) Athena Leyton- (District 8) Spencer Schumacher- (District 9) Ruven Brooks, Vice Chair- (District 10) Vacant- (Mayoral Appointee) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Urban Transportation Commission REGULAR MEETING on October 3, 2023. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion on implementation of the City’s Mobility Bond Action Plan Presenter: James Snow, Capital Delivery Services Department DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Presentation and possible action on a recommendation to Council on Project Connect Presenter: Austin Transit Partnership Staff 4. Discussion and possible action on a recommendation to Council related to Autonomous Vehicles in Austin Presenter: Kirk Scanlon and Rachel Castignoli, Transportation and Public Works Department 5. Discussion and possible action on a Right of Way vacation of West 35th abutting 1514 Kerbey Lane Presenter: Mashell Smith, Transportation and Public Works Department 6. Discussion and possible action on a Right of Way vacation of Clay Avenue traversing from Burnet Road to Houston Street Presenter: Mashell Smith, Transportation and Public Works Department 7. Discussion and possible action on recommendation relating to Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization Transportation Policy Board. 8. Discussion and possible action on the Commission’s 2024 meeting dates. 9. Discussion and possible action on …
MUSIC COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20231106-11 Vice Chair Patterson Seconded By: Commissioner Gould Date: November 6, 2023 Subject: Austin Convention Center Expansion Motioned By: Recommendation The music commission recommends that Austin City Council directs Convention Center Staff to create a Convention Center Expansion Advisory Board, consisting of stakeholders from the art, music, and other relevant communities and industries, to provide critical input for expansion planning. Description of Recommendation to Council Convention Center staff has announced plans for a comprehensive public information campaign for the expansion. As part of this public outreach, Music Commission recommends that an advisory board be formed to provide community insight for this significant downtown project. Precedent is set by the South Central Waterfront redevelopment, I-35 expansion, and Project Connect anti-displacement initiative – current public projects which benefit from project-specific community advisory boards or committees. This motion is based on study and recommendation from the Joint Arts & Music Urban Core Land Use Working Group. Rationale: • The convention center expansion will be financed by over $1 billion in public funds • The Convention Center expansion is a landmark capital project with tremendous potential for public benefits to Austin, including increased tourism revenue, exceptional public spaces, and robust programming. • City of Austin Music and Cultural grant programs are funded by Hotel Occupancy Taxes, which are directly impacted by Convention Center operations. • The adjacent publicly owned Palm School parcel holds significant historic and cultural importance, especially to Austin’s Latinx community. • The Convention Center should set itself apart and above competing facilities by leveraging and strengthening Austin’s status as a thriving mecca for creativity, arts, music, and diverse culture. • Stakeholder input from Austin’s diverse communities will enhance expansion planning vision and help the new Austin Convention Center become unique world-class destination attracting visitors from across the US and the world. Vote For: 7 (Chair Medicharla, Vice Chair Patterson, Commissioners Aguilar, Gould, Rosenthal, Davila and Strickland) Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: Commissioners Blevins, Quesada, Bartell, and Mahone Attest: Shelbi Mitchell, Program Coordinator Shelbi Mitchell 1 of 1
Palm District Planning Initiative Downtown Commission Briefing January 17, 2024 Content Background Plan Overview Council Action Next Steps Background Develop a shared vision for a complex, culturally rich, and rapidly transforming part of downtown Austin. 4 5 Resolution 20190523-029 Palm School Negotiations Rainey Street District Fund Fifth Street Mexican American Heritage Corridor Convention Center Expansion District Planning Process Improved Connectivity 6 Planning Process: 2019-2020 – Initiation – Pre-Planning – AIA Orientation Visit – Existing Conditions Report 2021 – Kick Off – Community Visioning Forums – AIA Virtual Meetings and Report – Targeted East Austin Engagement – Listening Report 2022 – Draft Vision Framework – Scenario Planning Workshops and Survey – Preferred Scenario – Implementation Planning – Draft Plan 2023 – Planning Commission Review – Council Review and Adoption 7 Plan Overview VISION The Palm District is a vibrant historic hub of downtown where the past is honored, culture is celebrated, and the future is shaped. Dense transit-oriented development is balanced with history and natural spaces creating physical connections that invite people to move easily to and through the district. The district is a dynamic place, growing and evolving, while actively retaining families and individuals who have traditionally called this place home. Creativity and innovation are cultivated, and people from Austin and beyond are welcome to live, relax, work, play, learn, and connect with others. 9 INCLUSIVE GROWTH Growth in the district will provide a prosperous future for longtime and recent residents and for established and new businesses. 10 CULTURE The district will become a destination that celebrates its multi- cultural heritage. 11 CONNECTION Physical, cultural and social connections will be strengthened within downtown and between East Austin and downtown. 12 NATURE The natural environment will be preserved and enhanced by restoring existing natural and open spaces and pursuing high standards of sustainable design and development with a focus on green infrastructure. 13 Recommendations Timing Sponsor Theme Recommendation • Build on investments and programs already underway • Guide and coordinate future actions 15 Palm District Plan will Provide Guidance To: IH 35 Reconstruction and Cap and Stitch (Lead: Corridor Program Office) Project Connect (Lead: Austin Transit Partnership) Convention Center Reconstruction (Lead: Convention Center) Waterloo Greenway Phase II and III, including Palm Park (Lead: Waller Creek LGC) Palm School Site Visioning (Lead: Travis County) Red River …
M E M O R A N D U M TO: Mayor and Council Members THROUGH: Robert Goode, Interim Assistant City Manager FROM: Richard Mendoza, Transportation and Public Works Director DATE: December 8, 2023 SUBJECT: Seaholm Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone #18 Project List Recommendations _______________________________________ We want to share with you a recommended project list for consideration, based on Mayor and Council’s input, for those funds remaining through the Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone #18 (TIRZ), once closed. Seaholm Redevelopment District TIRZ # 18 Overview The project and financing plan for TIRZ #18 included funding for construction of a bicycle and pedestrian underpass underneath the railroad tracks at Bowie Street (commonly referred to as the “Bowie Underpass” project). Despite extensive negotiations with Union Pacific Railroad, a project agreement could not be reached. We are proposing some renovations to that original Underpass Project, but please know that we cannot move forward with the entire project as originally envisioned. Stakeholder Engagement and Recommended Alternatives Transportation and Public Works (TPW) staff convened multiple input sessions with stakeholders including community- based non-profits, Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Council representatives, real estate professionals, property managers, and neighborhood association leadership. New suggested alternatives include near-term and long-term options informed by not only the Mayor and City Council but also the Shoal Creek Conservancy’s Cypress and Shoal Creek Public Space Strategy as well as recommendations in the Austin Bicycle Plan, Urban Trails and Sidewalk plans. With that as a backdrop, TPW staff recommends the following projects in order of priority (also included identified on attached map). Page 1 of 2 Project Number Project Name and Description (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) Shoal Creek Trail Underpass at the 3rd Street Bike/Ped Bridge – This project will eliminate the existing sharp turns and blind curves to improve north-south and east-west trail movements by routing the Shoal Creek trail underneath the 3rd Street bike/ped bridge and improve overall trail connections to 3rd Street. Expanded 3rd Street Bike/Ped Bridge and Study of the 3rd Street Trestle Bridge – This project will improve the quality and comfort for people crossing 3rd Street bicycle and pedestrian bridge by widening the current constrained connection, estimated at $4M, to better manage increasing volumes of people walking and bicycling. This project will also include the study and preliminary design of a public plaza at the 3rd Street trestle bridge, estimated at $1M for study and preliminary design. Because …
REGULAR MEETING of the ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL Monday, January 8, 2024, at 6:00 PM Virtual Meeting Members of the ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PANEL will be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed remotely via videoconference or telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item 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 participation. To register to speak, call or email alexandra.irrera@flyaustin.com or 512-530- 5126. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Chair – Stephanie Lemmo, Vice Chair – J Muzacz, Monica Maldonado – Arts Commission Liaison, Sarah Carr, Taylor Davis, Kristi-Anne Shaer, Lisa Woods 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 Approve the minutes of the Art in Public Places Panel Regular Meeting on December 4, 2023. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion of Chair’s Report on ‘Setting the tone for 2024’ by Chair Lemmo Discussion of Arts Commission Liaison Report on Action items from the December 2023 Arts Commissions Meeting by Arts Commission Liaison Maldonado Discussion of AIPP Panel working group to review AIPP program policies (AIPP Ordinance, Guidelines, Public Private Partnerships (P3s), Planned Unit Development (PUD), Public Improvement District (PID), and Equity Statement) Discussion of In-Person vs. Virtual AIPP Panel Meetings Discussion: Review the Mid Design for Slaughter Lane Corridor: Segment A AIPP Project – Yuliya Lanina DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. ACTION: Approve the Modified Final Design for the Comal Pocket Park AIPP Project – Dana Perrotti 7. STAFF BRIEFINGS Project Managers Updates – AIPP Staff Collections Manager Report – Sean Harrison 8. 9. 10. AIPP Program Manager Update – Constance Y. White FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please contact Alex Irrera at the Aviation Department at alexandra.irrera@flyaustin.com or 512-530- 5126 for additional information; TTY users' route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the …
3. 4. REGULAR MEETING of the MUSIC COMMISSION January 8, 2024, 6:30PM AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY, Special Events Center 710 W Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78701 Public comment will only be allowed in-person. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Nagavalli Medicharla - Chair, Anne-Charlotte Patterson – Vice Chair, Oren Rosenthal – Parliamentarian, Nelson Aguilar, Shane Bartell, Tami Blevins, Leonard Davila, Lauryn Gould, Jonathan “Chaka” Mahone, Celeste Quesada, Scott Strickland 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 Approve the minutes of the Music Commission Meeting on November 6, 2023. 1. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Live Music Fund collections update by Kim McCarson, Program Manager, Music & Entertainment Division, Economic Development Department. Update on Live Music Fund Event Program by Erica Shamaly, Division Manager, Music & Entertainment Division. Update on consultant evaluation of the Live Music Fund program by Erica Shamaly, Division Manager, Music & Entertainment Division. Font Size: 12; Font: Times New Roman; Font Style: Regular 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 14. DISCUSSION ITEMS 5. Discussion after presentation by Anne Gatling Haynes of Austin Economic Development Corporation on Cultural Trust next steps. Discussion following update on Community Navigators by Community Navigator representative. Discussion after presentation on Musician Treatment Foundation’s (MTF) work in the music community by Irene Chang-Cimino, Executive Director, MTF. Discussion on musical performances for Music Commission meetings following update by Shelbi Mitchell, Program Coordinator, Music & Entertainment, Economic Development Department. Discussion on all ages shows and how we support youth in Austin. Discussion on music journalism and access to media coverage in Austin. Discussion on music commission budget recommendations. Discussion on calendar for Live Music Fund awardee events. 12. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS Discussion and possible action on recommendation regarding economic impact of and funding for Red River Cultural District following update by Nicole Klepadlo, RRCD Interim Executive Director. Discussion and possible action on recommendation for Austin Record Convention subsidies from the City of Austin. 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 …
REGULAR MEETING of the PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION DECEMBER 4, 2023 at 4PM AUSTIN CITY HALL, Boards and Commission Room #1101 301 WEST 2nd STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Public Safety Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Janet Jackson, (512) 974-5747, or Janet.jackson@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Nelly Paulina Ramírez, Chair Rebecca Bernhardt, Vice Chair David Holmes John Kiracofe Cory Hall-Martin Pierre Nguyễn Kristy Orr Lauren Peña Timothy Ruttan Yasmine Smith AGENDA CALL TO ORDER 4:00pm speak) PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 4:00pm-4:05pm (from speakers signed up to The first three 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 4:05pm-4:10pm 1. Approve the minutes of the PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING on November 6, 2023. STAFF BRIEFINGS: 4:10pm-4:15pm 2. Staff Briefing to provide follow up responses to questions presented at November 6, 2023 meeting regarding items 3, 4 and 5 on the AFD quarterly report, language access policies, and victim services. DISCUSSION 3. Public Safety Quarterly Report – Austin Travis County EMS (Sponsors: Commissioners Ramírez and Bernhardt) 4:15pm - 4:30pm 4. Discussion of Office of Police Oversight’s under new leadership, implementation of APOA and Resolution 99 with Equity Action and community leaders (Sponsors: Commissioners Ruttan and Ramirez) 4:30pm-5:10pm 5. Discussion of Sobering Center and its cooperation with public safety agencies with Executive Director Laura Elmore (Sponsors: Commissioners Smith & Bernhardt) 5:10pm-5:50pm WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 6. CSCRM Working Group Update (Sponsors: Commissioners Ramírez and Orr) 5:50-5:55pm FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS – 5:55pm-6:00pm ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Janet Jackson, Austin Police Department, at 512-974-547, for additional information; TTY …