AUSTIN CONVENTION CENTER EXPANSION: PROMISES AND PERFORMANCE HEYWOOD SANDERS UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT SAN ANTONIO C.H. JOHNSON CONSULTING, INC. Experts In Convention , Sport and Real Estate Consulting the obstacles to future growth in Austin's Convention Center business have continued to mount. Table 2-1 summarizes the major reasons for lost business. The reasons are distributed by the number of room nights lost. Table 2-1 Reasons for Lost Business Primary Reason Facility dates unavailable Inadequate meeting space Lack of large hotel Room rates Political Large room block not available Location No response from hotels Meeting canceled Other reasons Room Nights Lost % of Total 69,820 31,045 28,155 25,133 11,874 11, 130 11,002 9,625 9,175 33,488 29% 13% 12% 10% 5% 5% 5% 4% 4% 14% Source :Austin Convention and Visitor's Bureau Meeting planners reported the lack of available facility dates more than any other reason for not using the Convention Center. The lack of available dates stems from the size of the facility, which prevents the occurrence of simultaneous events. Lack of adequate meeting space was the second most frequently cited problem. The availability of hotel rooms at reasonable rates is also important. Hotel-related factors (four categories in total) account for over 31 percent of the lost business . Additional hotel supply and greater cooperation from tl1e existing hotel community are essential if the city is to realize its meeting market potential. The current convention center is too small to accommodate Austin's pot ential demand . Center management is now facing severe problems in its attempts to retain a number of annual repeating events . Many national rotating events that previously came to Austin and liked the community cannot return because they are now too large for the facility . Many state events have also outgrown the facility. The chart below shows potential scenarios for exhibit-hall occupancy under three potential growth rates (2, 4, and 6 percent) . Exhibit-hall occupancy is the number of days an exhibition hall is rented (including move-in and move- OUt days) divided by the number of days in the year. The following chart h 'b ' t hall occupancy and potential future occupancy under a displays recent ex 1 1 - range of growth rates. I nnn R;innP. StriltP.nV• Austin r.nnv11ntinn r.,mtDr C.ortil\t'l ? _ 0!'!1"o ,:; C.H. JOHNSON CONSULTING, INC. Experts In Convention , Sport and Real Estate Consulting the obstacles to future growth in …
THE STATE OF THE CONVENTION INDUSTRY PRE-COVID Heywood Sanders University of Texas at San Antonio February 16, 2022 IN THE HIGHLY COMPETITIVE CONVENTION MARKET PRE- PANDEMIC, DISCOUNTS, INCENTIVES, AND FREE RENT DEALS HAD BECOME THE NORM 4 CONVENTION SALES Visit Phoenix’s Convention Sales Department represents the two distinct meeting products in Greater Phoenix: (1) the downtown Phoenix market, anchored by the Phoenix Convention Center, and (2) the hotel and resort market. The department comprises two sales teams: The Citywide Sales Team books groups at the convention center, while the Hotel/Resort Sales Team books groups at area hotels and resorts. 14 bookings representing 64,000 delegates and 106,000 room nights. PROGRAM OF WORK RECAP Client Events The Visit Phoenix sales teams hosted, co-hosted or sponsored seven client events in fiscal year 2013-14, exposing more than 1,200 meeting professionals to the city’s meetings- and-convention product. PERFORMANCE SUMMARY Sales Promotions Citywide Sales In fiscal year 2013-14, the Citywide Sales Team booked 232,163 delegates, a 2.3 percent increase over last year’s performance. The sales team also produced 326 leads, which is 11 percent more than a year ago. These 326 prospective groups represent more than 1 million future delegates. Hotel/Resort Sales The Hotel/Resort Sales Team booked 330,797 definite room nights in fiscal year 2013-14, an 11 percent increase over the previous year. The sales team also produced 1,495 leads, representing 1.1 million future delegates. This lead production is a 4 percent increase over last year. Combined, Visit Phoenix’s sales teams booked 436,000 meeting and convention attendees who will consume 621,000 hotel room nights and spend an estimated $540 million. “See It to Believe It” This continuation of the Citywide Sales Team’s fly-in promotion gave potential clients the chance to tour the Phoenix Convention Center, area hotels and off-site venues. To date, this promotion netted 76 in-house meetings and 25 citywide conventions. “Freenix” This citywide booking promotion— created in conjunction with the Phoenix Convention Center and downtown hotel partners—offered complimentary convention center rental and free WiFi (at both hotels and the convention center) for clients with citywide conventions slated from 2015 to 2019. This promotion netted Event Experient E4 American Express INTERaction Infusion Nurses Society CEO Forum CESSE (Council of Engineering Scientific Societies Executives) Phoenix Convention Center/Citywide Buyers Education Trip AMC Institute Resort Buyers Education Trip Total Clients Hosted 173 800 120 24 80 17 12 1,226 Kayla Stidger MEETING SPACE Organization for Human Brain Mapping …
DOWNTOWN COMMISSION DRAFT MEETING MINUTES REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2022 The Downtown Commission convened in a meeting on Wednesday, February 16, 2022, at 301 W. 2nd Street in hybrid meeting format. David Gomez, Commissioner Nelly Paulina Ramirez, Commissioner Cynthia Weatherby, Commissioner Mike Lavigne, Commissioner Laura Templeton, Commissioner Kelan Robinson, Commissioner Downtown Commissioners in Attendance: August Harris, Chair Christopher Lehman, Vice Chair Megan Meisenbach, Commissioner Jennifer Weaver, Commissioner Josh Lickteig, Commissioner Joel Sher, Commissioner Ben Heimsath, Commissioner Downtown Commissioners Not in Attendance: Chris Kanipe, Commissioner; Amy Mock, Commissioner; Kimberly Taylor, Commissioner; Preston Reine, Commissioner; Christopher Limon, Commissioner City Staff in Attendance: Susana Carbajal, Christine Maguire, and Matthew Schmidt, Economic Development Department CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called the meeting to order at 5:37 p.m. CITIZEN COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No citizens were signed up to speak. 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE JANUARY 19, 2022, MEETING MINUTES The January 19, 2022, Downtown Commission meeting minutes were adopted. 2. NEW BUSINESS - Discussion and Possible Action a. Convention Center Expansion: Downtown Commission Working Group Recommendation: Presentation by Heywood Sanders, University of Texas San Antonio The Commission received presentations by Heywood Sanders, University of Texas San Antonio. No action was taken. 3. OLD BUSINESS a. Staff Updates – Christine Maguire provided updates to the Commission regarding Texas Open Meetings Act requirements, Board Communications, and upcoming budget recommendation deadlines. b. Items from representatives of collaborating commissions including non-voting members: i. Update from Commissioner Jen Weaver on recent activities and actions taken by the Design Commission - 1 - Commissioner reported that the Design Commission discussed the Mexican American Cultural Center Phase 2, Waterloo Greenway Creek Delta, Rainey Street Trailhead, Urban Design Guidelines, and work on Great Streets. c. Update from Commissioner Ben Heimsath on recent activities and actions taken by the Historic Preservation Commission. Commissioner Heimsath reported that the Commission continues to discuss preservation standards, and approval of public art located at the Scarborough Building. d. Update from Commissioner Cynthia Weatherby on recent activities and actions taken by the Urban Transportation Commission (UTC) Commissioner Weatherby updated the Commission on the UTC work on the Strategic Mobility Plan. e. Update from Commissioner Amy Mock on recent activities and actions taken by the Arts f. Update from Commission Christopher Limon on recent activities and actions taken by the g. Update from Commissioner Kimberly Taylor on recent activities and actions taken by the Commission. Commissioner Mock absent; …
DOWNTOWN COMMISSION JANUARY 19, 2022, TIME: 5:30 p.m. Austin City Hall, Boards and Commission, Room 1101 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 CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: August Harris, Chair Christopher Lehman, Vice Chair Megan Meisenbach, Commissioner Chris Kanipe, Commissioner Jen Weaver, Commissioner Josh Lickteig, Commissioner Joel Sher, Commissioner Ben Heimsath, Commissioner kYmberly Keeton, Commissioner CALL TO ORDER David Gomez, Commissioner Nelly Paulina Ramirez, Commissioner Cynthia Weatherby, Commissioner Kimberly Taylor, Commissioner Mike Lavigne, Commissioner Preston Reine Commissioner Laura Templeton, Commissioner Christopher Limon, Commissioner Kelan Robinson, Commissioner AGENDA CITIZEN 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. 1. Approval of Minutes of the October 20, 2021 Meeting Minutes Discussion and Possible Action (5 minutes) 2. New Business – Discussion and Possible Action a. Safer Sixth Street Initiative: Presentation by Brian Block, Development i. Creation of a Downtown Commission Safer Sixth Street Working Group b. Rainey Street Trailhead (SPC-2021-0286C): Presentation by Heidi Anderson, Services Department Trail Foundation c. Historic Resources Survey for Old Austin Neighborhood Association: Presentation by Andrew Rice and Elizabeth Brummett, Housing and Planning Department 3. Old Business – a. Staff Updates b. Convention Center Expansion Working Group c. Items from representatives of collaborating commissions including non-voting members: i. Update from Commissioner Jen Weaver on recent activities and actions taken by the Design Commission ii. Update from Commissioner Ben Heimsath on recent activities and actions taken by the Historic Landmark Commission iii. Update from Commissioner Cynthia Weatherby on recent activities and actions taken by the Urban Transportation Commission iv. Update from Commissioner kYmberly Keeton on recent activities and actions taken by the Arts Commission v. Update from Commissioner Christopher Limon on recent activities and actions taken by the Music Commission vi. Update from Commissioner Kimberly Taylor on recent activities and actions taken by the Parks & Recreation Board vii. Update from Commissioner Nelly Paulina Ramirez on recent activities and actions taken by the Public Safety Commission 4. Potential Future Agenda Items Adjournment The Commission may discuss and identify future agenda items, topics, or presentations The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications …
TO: Mayor and Council Members FROM: Joseph Chacon, Austin Police Department Chief Denise Lucas, Development Services Director DATE: December 27, 2021 SUBJECT: Safer 6th Street Initiative (Resolution No. 20210729-175) The purpose of this memo is to provide a response on action items related to the Safer 6th Street resolution. Background Council Resolution No. 20210729-175 established City Council support for implementing a more comprehensive strategy toward 6th Street that maximizes its assets, embraces new opportunities, and ensures a safer environment for all, and established that the strategy needs to be multi-faceted and build on previous stakeholder processes and consultant reports. The resolution outlined actions to be taken, and for staff to report to Council on the results. Below is the response on each action item. Response to Action Items • Action #1: Create an interdepartmental team led by the Entertainment Services Group and with representation from – at a minimum – the Austin Police Department, Austin Transportation Department, Austin Energy, Austin Fire Department, Austin/Travis County Emergency Medical Services, Austin Code, and the Historic Preservation Office. Response: The interdepartmental team was created, held their kick-off meeting on August 16, 2021, and continued to meet to carry out the action items in the resolution. • Action #2: Use temporary lighting and upgrade existing lighting if necessary to provide dramatically brighter spaces along the 6th Street corridor. Response: The interdepartmental team identified locations that need additional lighting as well as priority areas for lighting. For context, 6th Street has decorative light poles, and the north-south side streets and alleys have traditional street light poles. The decorative poles on 6th Street had previously been upgraded to LED and optimized. The locations identified by the team for additional lighting are the north-south side streets and alleys. Austin Energy crews went through the 6th Street District to assess and perform maintenance on the existing traditional street lighting poles. Within the district crews replaced all of the old style high pressure sodium fixtures with LED. In all, AE replaced 64 heads of which approximately 10% were not working. Next Steps: • Conduct a lighting study to assess if there are gaps in the street light network in the district. Requests for new street light poles to fill any identified gaps will require funding and need to be added to Austin Energy’s priority list for installs. • Street light poles in the alleys are limited. There is very little …
REGULAR MEETING DOWNTOWN COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 19, 2022 MEETING MINUTES The Downtown Commission convened in a meeting on Wednesday, October 20, 2021, at 301 W. 2nd Street in hybrid meeting format. David Gomez, Commissioner Nelly Paulina Ramirez, Commissioner Cynthia Weatherby, Commissioner Jen Weaver, Commissioner Joel Sher, Commissioner Ben Heimsath, Commissioner Downtown Commissioners in Attendance: August Harris, Chair Christopher Lehman, Vice Chair Megan Meisenbach, Commissioner Kimberly Taylor, Commissioner Mike Lavigne, Commissioner Laura Templeton, Commissioner Kelan Robinson, Commissioner Downtown Commissioners Not in Attendance: Chris Kanipe, Commissioner, Preston Reine Commissioner, Josh Lickteig, Commissioner, Christopher Limon, Commissioner, kYmberly Keeton, Commissioner City Staff in Attendance: Mona Sanchez and Christine Maguire, Economic Development Department Brian Block, Development Services Department Andrew Rice and Elizabeth Brummett, Housing and Planning Department CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called the meeting to order at 5:34 p.m. CITIZEN COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No citizens were signed up to speak. 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE OCTOBER 20, 2021, MEETING MINUTES The October 20, 2021, Downtown Commission meeting minutes were adopted. 2. NEW BUSINESS - Discussion and Possible Action a. Safer Sixth Street Initiative: Presentation by Brian Block, Development Services Department i. Creation of a Downtown Commission Safer Sixth Street Working Group Chair Harris motioned to create the Downtown Commission Safer Sixth Street Initiative Working Group with Commissioner Lavigne’s second on a vote of 8-0. b. Rainey Street Trailhead (SPC-2021-0286C): Presentation by Heidi Anderson, Trail Foundation Commissioner Meisenbach motioned to support Community Engagement Concept 2 of the Rainey Street Trailhead with Commissioner Sher’s second on a vote of 8-0. c. Historic Resources Survey for Old Austin Neighborhood Association: Presentation by Andrew Rice and Elizabeth Brummett, Housing and Planning Department The Commission received a presentation from Andrew Rice and Elizabeth Brummett, Housing and Planning Department. No action was taken. - 1 - 2. OLD BUSINESS b. Convention Center Expansion Working Group Commissioner Templeton and Commissioner Lavigne provide an update of the work being done with Professor Sanders from UT San Antonio. Items from representatives of collaborating commissions including non-voting members a. Update from Commissioner Jen Weaver on recent activities and actions taken by the Design Commission. Commissioner reported that the Design Commission discussed the 80 Rainey Street Tower, and their work on the Great Streets Program. b. Update from Commissioner Ben Heimsath on recent activities and actions taken by the Historic Preservation Commission. Commissioner Heimsath reported that the Commission passed the old west Austin warehouse …
DOWNTOWN COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2021 The Downtown Commission convened in a meeting on Wednesday, October 20, 2021, at 301 W. 2nd Street in hybrid meeting format. Downtown Commissioners in Attendance: August Harris, Chair David Gomez, Commissioner Christopher Lehman, Vice Chair Nelly Paulina Ramirez, Commissioner Megan Meisenbach, Commissioner Cynthia Weatherby, Commissioner Chris Kanipe, Commissioner Mike Lavigne, Commissioner Josh Lickteig, Commissioner Preston Reine Commissioner Joel Sher, Commissioner Laura Templeton, Commissioner Kelan Robinson, Commissioner Downtown Commissioners Not in Attendance: Melissa Henao-Robledo Commissioner, Commissioner Ben Heimsath, Commissioner Christopher Limon, kYmberly Keeton, Commissioner, Kimberly Taylor, Commissioner City Staff in Attendance: Mona Sanchez and Christine Maguire, Economic Development Department CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called the meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. CITIZEN COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No citizens were signed up to speak. 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE SEPTEMBER 15, 2021, MEETING MINUTES The September 15, 2021, Downtown Commission meeting minutes were adopted. 2. NEW BUSINESS - Discussion and Possible Action a. Cypress and Shoal Creek Public Space Strategy: Presentation by Nina Rinaldi, Shoal Creek Conservancy Item withdrawn. (DSC) No action was taken. b. Safer Sixth Street Initiative: Presentation by Brian Block, Development Services Department c. Discussion and possible action on the 2022 Downtown Commission Meeting Schedule. - 1 - Commissioner Joel Sher motioned to approve the 2022 Downtown Commission meeting schedule with Commissioner Meisenbach’s second on a 7-0. 3. OLD BUSINESS Items from representatives of collaborating commissions including non-voting members a. Update from Commissioner Melissa Henao-Robledo on recent activities and actions taken by b. Update from Commissioner Ben Heimsath on recent activities and actions taken by the the Design Commission. Commissioner Henao-Robledo absent; no updates. Historic Preservation Commission. Commissioner Heimsath absent; no updates. c. Update from Commissioner Cynthia Weatherby on recent activities and actions taken by the Urban Transportation Commission (UTC) Commissioner Weatherby report that the UTC had discussed the changes in taxi service. d. Update from Commissioner kYmberly Keeton on recent activities and actions taken by the e. Update from Commission Christopher Limon on recent activities and actions taken by the f. Update from Commissioner Kimberly Taylor on recent activities and actions taken by the Arts Commission. Commissioner Keeton absent; no updates. Music Commission. Commissioner Limon absent; no updates. Parks & Recreation Board Commissioner Taylor absent; no updates. Public Safety Commission. No updates. g. Update from Commissioner Nelly Paulina Ramirez on recent activities and actions taken by the …
DOWNTOWN COMMISSION DECEMBER 15, 2021, TIME: 5:30 p.m. Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1101 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 CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: August Harris, Chair Christopher Lehman, Vice Chair Megan Meisenbach, Commissioner Chris Kanipe, Commissioner Melissa Henao-Robledo, Commissioner Mike Lavigne, Commissioner Preston Reine Commissioner Josh Lickteig, Commissioner Laura Templeton, Commissioner Joel Sher, Commissioner Christopher Limon, Commissioner Ben Heimsath, Commissioner kYmberly Keeton, Commissioner Kelan Robinson, Commissioner David Gomez, Commissioner Nelly Paulina Ramirez, Commissioner Cynthia Weatherby, Commissioner Kimberly Taylor, Commissioner AGENDA CALL TO ORDER CITIZEN 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. 1. Approval of Minutes of the October 20, 2021 Meeting Minutes Discussion and Possible Action (5 minutes) 2. New Business – Discussion and Possible Action a. Safer Sixth Street Initiative: Presentation by Brian Block, Development Services Department 3. Old Business – a. Convention Center Expansion Working Group b. Items from representatives of collaborating commissions including non-voting members: i. Update from Commissioner Melissa Henao-Robledo on recent activities and actions taken by the Design Commission ii. Update from Commissioner Ben Heimsath on recent activities and actions taken by the Historic Landmark Commission iii. Update from Commissioner Cynthia Weatherby on recent activities and actions taken by the Urban Transportation Commission iv. Update from Commissioner kYmberly Keeton on recent activities and actions taken by the Arts Commission v. Update from Commissioner Christopher Limon on recent activities and actions taken by the Music Commission vi. Update from Commissioner Kimberly Taylor on recent activities and actions taken by the Parks & Recreation Board vii. Update from Commissioner Nelly Paulina Ramirez on recent activities and actions taken by the Public Safety Commission 4. Potential Future Agenda Items Adjournment The Commission may discuss and identify future agenda items, topics, or presentations 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 Mona Sanchez at the Economic Development Department, at (512) 974-7864, for …
DOWNTOWN COMMISSION OCTOBER 20, 2021, TIME: 5:30 p.m. Austin City Hall, Boards and Commission Room 1101 301 W 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: August Harris, Chair Christopher Lehman, Vice Chair Megan Meisenbach, Commissioner Chris Kanipe, Commissioner Melissa Henao-Robledo, Commissioner Mike Lavigne, Commissioner Preston Reine Commissioner Josh Lickteig, Commissioner Laura Templeton, Commissioner Joel Sher, Commissioner Christopher Limon, Commissioner Ben Heimsath, Commissioner Kelan Robinson, Commissioner kYmberly Keeton, Commissioner David Gomez, Commissioner Nelly Paulina Ramirez, Commissioner Cynthia Weatherby, Commissioner Kimberly Taylor, Commissioner AGENDA CALL TO ORDER CITIZEN 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. 1. Approval of Minutes of the September 15, 2021 Meeting Minutes Discussion and Possible Action (5 minutes) 2. New Business – Discussion and Possible Action a. Cypress and Shoal Creek Public Space Strategy: Presentation by Nina Rinaldi, Shoal Creek Conservancy b. Safer Sixth Street Initiative: Presentation by Brian Block, Development Services Department c. Discussion and possible action on the 2022 Downtown Commission Meeting Schedule voting members: d. Update from Working Groups i. Downtown Austin Plan Working Group ii. Austin Convention Center Expansion Working Group 3. Old Business – Items from representatives of collaborating commissions including non- a. Update from Commissioner Melissa Henao-Robledo on recent activities and actions taken by the Design Commission b. Update from Commissioner Ben Heimsath on recent activities and actions taken by the Historic Landmark Commission c. Update from Commissioner Cynthia Weatherby on recent activities and actions taken by the Urban Transportation Commission d. Update from Commissioner kYmberly Keeton on recent activities and actions e. Update from Commissioner Christopher Limon on recent activities and actions taken by the Arts Commission taken by the Music Commission f. Update from Commissioner Kimberly Taylor on recent activities and actions taken by the Parks & Recreation Board g. Update from Commissioner Nelly Paulina Ramirez on recent activities and actions taken by the Public Safety Commission 4. Potential Future Agenda Items The Commission may discuss and identify future agenda items, topics, or presentations 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 …
RESOLUTION NO. 20210729-175 WHEREAS, Sixth Street, once referred to as Pecan Street, was a center of Downtown commerce and offered an array of services and businesses; and WHEREAS, Sixth Street is defined as the area that begins at the intersection of IH-35 and Fifth Street; north along IH-35 to the intersection of Seventh Street (East); west along Seventh Street (East) to Congress Avenue; south along Congress Avenue to Fifth Street (East); east along Fifth Street (East) to IH-35, the place ofbeginning; and WHEREAS, bars and nighttime music venues currently dominate the uses on historic Sixth Street; and crowds and much activity; and WHEREAS, especially on weekend evenings, Sixth Street generates large WHEREAS, the area is known to attract and encourage certain at-risk practices, such as excessive binge drinking, which has contributed to the perception of an unsafe and volatile environment; and WHEREAS, while the wide swathe of empty space created by weekend street closures provides opportunities for pedestrians to walk without interacting with vehicles, it also provides ample space and opportunity for less positive activity, including fighting and alcohol-fueled violence; and WHEREAS, Austin Police Department regularly takes possession of illegal guns among individuals present along Sixth Street on weekend evenings; and Page 1 of 7 WHEREAS, in recent months, Sixth Street has been the site of multiple fatal shootings, including a mass shooting on June 12,2021, that left one ilidividual dead and others seriously wounded; and WHEREAS, in the last decade, several studies conducted by non-city entities have recommended changes that could make Sixth Street safer for all who live, work, and recreate there, though these reports were apparently never shared with the full City Council; and WHEREAS, in 2009, the Responsible Hospitality Institute (RHI) facilitated a process with more than 60 stakeholders from the Downtown faith community, hotels, area colleges and universities, South by Southwest, the real estate industry, and including city staff from the Austin Police Department, Emergency Medical Services, Planning, Solid Waste Services, and other departments; and WHEREAS, the resulting report, "Managing the Nighttime Economy, " recommended specific short- and long-term strategies for improving perceptions of safety, creating "visible systems of order," and achieving other goals essential to maintaining and enhancing a thriving Downtown historic district; and WHEREAS, while City Council or staff have initiated and implemented several action items, such as the installation of public restrooms and a Downtown wayfinding system, other major recommendations related to …
DOWNTOWN COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 15, 2021, TIME: 5:30 p.m. Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, 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 CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: August Harris, Chair Christopher Lehman, Vice Chair Megan Meisenbach, Commissioner Chris Kanipe, Commissioner Melissa Henao-Robledo, Commissioner Mike Lavigne, Commissioner Preston Reine Commissioner Josh Lickteig, Commissioner Laura Templeton, Commissioner Joel Sher, Commissioner Christopher Limon, Commissioner Ben Heimsath, Commissioner kYmberly Keeton, Commissioner Kelan Robinson, Commissioner David Gomez, Commissioner Nelly Paulina Ramirez, Commissioner Cynthia Weatherby, Commissioner Kimberly Taylor, Commissioner AGENDA CALL TO ORDER CITIZEN 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. 1. Approval of Minutes of the August 18, 2021 Meeting Minutes Discussion and Possible Action (5 minutes) 2. New Business – Discussion and Possible Action a. Downtown Density Affordable Housing Program: Presentation by Sam Tedford, Housing and Planning Department b. Briefing on the Convention Center Redevelopment and Expansion Project: Presentation by Trisha Tatro and Katy Zamesnik, Austin Convention Center Department (ACCD) c. Discussion and possible action on the creation of a Convention Center Expansion Working Group voting members: 3. Old Business – Items from representatives of collaborating commissions including non- a. Update from Commissioner Melissa Henao-Robledo on recent activities and actions taken by the Design Commission b. Update from Commissioner Ben Heimsath on recent activities and actions taken by the Historic Landmark Commission c. Update from Commissioner Cynthia Weatherby on recent activities and actions taken by the Urban Transportation Commission d. Update from Commissioner kYmberly Keeton on recent activities and actions e. Update from Commissioner Christopher Limon on recent activities and actions taken by the Arts Commission taken by the Music Commission f. Update from Commissioner Kimberly Taylor on recent activities and actions taken by the Parks & Recreation Board g. Update from Commissioner Nelly Paulina Ramirez on recent activities and actions taken by the Public Safety Commission 4. Potential Future Agenda Items The Commission may discuss and identify future agenda items, topics, or presentations 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 …
Downtown Density Bonus Program Affordable Housing Fee Calibration September 15 Downtown Commission Content Resolution No 20210422-039 Draft Fees Fee Calibration Discussion Next Steps Resolution No 20210422-039 FAR Policy •Amend City Code section 25-2-586 (Downtown Density Bonus Program) to amend subsection (B)(6). •The amendments shall maximize participation in the Program and maximize community benefits, especially the funding of permanent supportive housing and housing vouchers. •Before deliberation on the code changes by the Planning Commission or City Council, the City Manager is directed to present a report on Floor to Area Ratio best practices. Interim Fees •Implement interim revisions to the in-lieu affordable housing fees for residential development for the Downtown Density Bonus Program; •Implements interim revisions to the in-lieu affordable housing fees for non-residential development for the Downtown Density Bonus Program and Rainey Density Bonus Programs; and •Moves revised fees described above to the City Fee Schedule so they can be updated more effectively. Fee Calibration •Update the fee-in-lieu analysis provided by EcoNorthwest to reflect current market conditions and existing zones of the Downtown Density Bonus Program area and return to Council with, if necessary, an item for action no later than August 26, 2021, or prior to budget approval if possible. 3 Resolution No 20210422-039 ▪ The City Council directs the City Manager to post an item for action on May 20, 2021 that accomplishes the following: – Implements interim revisions to the in-lieu affordable housing fees for residential development for the Downtown Density Bonus Program; – Implements interim revisions to the in-lieu affordable housing fees for non-residential development for the Downtown Density Bonus Program and Rainey Density Bonus Programs; and – Moves revised fees described above to the City Fee Schedule so they can be updated more effectively. 4 LDC Revision Calibrated DDBP fees Interim Fees Based on LDC Revision calibrated fees for the Downtown Density Bonus Program: - Calibrated using late 2019 market - Based on new zones of the LDC dynamics Revision - Calibrated to a site’s base zoning not the downtown sub-district - Tuned to specific requirements of proposed LDC Revision from January 28, 2020 memo from economic consultants, EcoNorthwest 5 Resolution No 20210422-039 ▪ Update the fee-in-lieu analysis provided by EcoNorthwest to reflect current market conditions and existing zones of the Downtown Density Bonus Program area and return to Council with, if necessary, an item for action no later than August 26, 2021, or prior …
Hotel Occupancy Tax Review History of Convention Center Redevelopment and Expansion Convention Center Redevelopment and Expansion Update and Next Planning Steps 2 3 Sec. 351.101. USE OF TAX REVENUE*. (a) Revenue from the municipal hotel occupancy tax may be used only to promote tourism and the convention and hotel industry, and that use is limited to the following: (1) the acquisition of sites for and the construction, improvement, enlarging, equipping, repairing, operation, and maintenance of convention center facilities or visitor information centers, or both; (2) the furnishing of facilities, personnel, and materials for the registration of convention delegates or registrants; (3) advertising and conducting solicitations and promotional programs to attract tourists and convention delegates or registrants to the municipality or its vicinity; (4) the encouragement, promotion, improvement, and application of the arts, including instrumental and vocal music, dance, drama, folk art, creative writing, architecture, design and allied fields, painting, *https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/TX/htm/TX.351.htm 4 sculpture, photography, graphic and craft arts, motion pictures, radio, television, tape and sound recording, and other arts related to the presentation, performance, execution, and exhibition of these (5) historical restoration and preservation projects or activities or advertising and conducting solicitations and promotional programs to encourage tourists and convention delegates to visit preserved (A) at or in the immediate vicinity of convention center facilities or visitor information centers; or (B) located elsewhere in the municipality or its vicinity that would be frequented by tourists and (9) signage directing the public to sights and attractions that are visited frequently by hotel guests in the major art forms; historic sites or museums: convention delegates; municipality; Chapter 351 prohibits HOT use for general government activities 5 6 7 Convention Center Long Range Master Plan (May 2015) Outside core not viable Musts include proximity to Existing and planned hotel room supply Variety of services Dining Entertainment Concluded west expansion was the only viable option Urban Land Institute (Spring 2015) Created Technical Assistance Panel (TAP) TAP review reaffirmed the Master Plan conclusion of westward expansion Visitor Impact Task Force (June 2017) Council appointed 18 members Recommended expansion to the west, leaving Trinity open 8 Center for Sustainable Development at University of Texas (April 2019) Council Resolution No. 20170928-052 Concluded westward expansion was well vetted and the only realistic …
Versión en español a continuación. DOWNTOWN COMMISSION Meeting of AUGUST 18, 2021 Downtown Commission Meeting to be held AUGUST 18, 2021 with Social Distancing Modifications Public comment will be allowed via telephone; no in-person input will be allowed. All speakers must register in advance (August 17, 2021 by noon). All public comment will occur at the beginning of the meeting. To speak remotely at the August 18, 2021 Downtown Commission Meeting, members of the public must: •Call or email the board liaison at Mona Sanchez (512) 974-7864, mona.sanchez@austintexas.gov no later than noon, (the, day before the meeting). The following information is required: speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, email address and telephone number (must be the same number that will be used to call into the meeting). •Once a request to speak has been made to the board liaison, the information to call on the day of the scheduled meeting will be provided either by email or phone call. •Speakers must call in at least 15 minutes prior to meeting start time in order to speak, late callers will not be accepted and will not be able to speak. •Speakers will be placed in a queue until their time to speak. •Handouts or other information may be emailed to mona.sanchez@austintexas.gov by noon the day before the scheduled meeting. This information will be provided to Board and Commission members in advance of the meeting. •If the meeting is broadcast live, it may be viewed here: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Reunión del DOWNTOWN COMMISSION FECHA de la reunion (AUGUST 18, 2021) La junta se llevará con modificaciones de distanciamiento social Se permitirán comentarios públicos por teléfono; no se permitirá ninguna entrada en persona. Todos los oradores deben registrarse con anticipación (August 17, 2021 antes del mediodía). Todos los comentarios públicos se producirán al comienzo de la reunión. Para hablar de forma remota en la reunión, los miembros del público deben: • Llame o envíe un correo electrónico al enlace de la junta en Mona Sanchez, (512) 974-7864, mona.sanchez@austintexas.gov a más tardar al mediodía (el día antes de la reunión). Se requiere la siguiente información: nombre del orador, número (s) de artículo sobre el que desean hablar, si están a favor / en contra / neutral, dirección de correo electrónico (opcional) y un número de teléfono (debe ser el número que se utilizará para llamar ). • Una vez …
