Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission April 2, 2025 at 6:00 PM Permitting And Development Center, Events Center, Room 1405 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Environmental Commission will 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 Elizabeth Funk, Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@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). CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Haris Qureshi Justin Fleury Mariana Krueger Melinda Schiera Hanna Cofer, Vice Chair Ashika Ganguly Jennifer Bristol, Secretary David Sullivan Richard Brimer Isabella Changsut 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 Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on March 5, 2025 1 1. DISCUSSION ITEMS Recognition of Melinda Schiera for her service on the Environmental Commission – Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Department DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS In response to Council Resolution 20250327-062, consider variances and amendments to the Land Development Code, including site-specific amendments to Chapter 25-8, as minimally required to allow the construction of the Walnut Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant Enhancement and Expansion Project – Leslie Lilly, Environment Conservation Manager, Watershed Protection Department Election of Environmental Commission Officers for May 1, 2025 through April 30, 2026 term. Discussion and possible action on Environmental Commission committee membership Discussion and recommendation on 2026 budget priorities from the Joint Sustainability Committee – Environmental Commissioner Haris Qureshi Discussion and recommendation on City-Wide On-Demand Micro Transit to Parks and Recreation Centers – Environmental Commissioners Richard Brimer and Haris Qureshi FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and …
Walnut Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant Enhancement and Expansion Project Capital Improvement Project 3023.046 Leslie Lilly Watershed Protection Environmental Conservation Program Manager C I T Y O F A U S T I N W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T W a l n u t C r e e k W W T P C I T Y O F A U S T I N W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 2 Walnut Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility C I T Y O F A U S T I N W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 3 Walnut Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility C I T Y O F A U S T I N W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 4 Colorado River The Enhancement and Expansion Project C I T Y O F A U S T I N W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 5 Construction in the CWQZ LDC 25-8-261 To allow construction of a floodplain wall within a Critical Water Quality Zone (CWQZ). C I T Y O F A U S T I N W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 6 Mitigation for impact to CWQZ C I T Y O F A U S T I N W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 7 Construction on Slopes LDC 25-8-301 Administrative approval of roadway or driveway constructed on slopes in excess of 15% C I T Y O F A U S T I …
CIP 3023.046 ORDINANCE AMENDMENT REVIEW SHEET Amendment: Site-specific amendments and related variances Description: Amends Land Development Code (LDC) Chapter 25-1, 25-5, 25-7, and 25-8 and related variances as minimally required to allow the construction of the Walnut Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant Enhancement and Expansion Project Proposed Language: Consider an ordinance granting site-specific variances and amendments to the Land Development Code, including amendments to Chapter 25-1, 25-5, 25-7, and 25-8, as minimally required to allow the construction of the Walnut Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant Enhancement and Expansion Project. Summary of proposed code amendment The amendment under consideration is related to the enhancement and expansion project for the Walnut Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant, especially the construction of a floodwall to protect the facility from flood damage. 25-1 General Requirements and Procedures Amendments to this section are proposed to allow certain variances/waivers to be approved administratively instead of by board or commission. 25-5 Site Plans The project includes several site plans for different project phases and requires a modification to Section 25-5-44 to allow concurrent site plans on the same site. Additionally, the construction of the project will extend beyond the 3-year expiration requirement for site plans so, a amendment to 25-5-81 is also proposed. 25-7 Drainage The construction of the project may require a floodplain variance for which an administrative approval process is proposed. 25-8 Environment A significant portion of the property is located within the 100-year floodplain and the Critical Water Quality Zone of Walnut Creek. The site also has a topography that may require variances to cut/fill requirements and restrictions on regulations. Additionally, there are two identified heritage trees that conflict with the proposed alignment of the floodwall. The proposed amendments to chapter 25-8 include: • 25-8-261 (Development in the Critical Water Quality Zone) to allow for the construction of the floodwall within the CWQZ • 25-8-301 (Construction on Slopes) to allow for administrative approval of the realignment of a roadway on slopes in excess of 15% • 25-8-341 (Cut Requirements) to allow for administrative approval of cut up to • 25-8-342 (Fill Requirements) to allow for administrative approval of fill up to 25 ft 25 ft 1 • 25-8-264 & 25-8-263 (Heritage Trees) to allow for administrative approval of CIP 3023.046 removal of two heritage trees Background: The Walnut Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) receives wastewater flow from Austin Water's wastewater collection system. The plant was originally built in …
As of March 2025 Members Environmental Commission Committees and Members Committee Name and details Urban Forestry Committee • Per bylaws, the committee is charged with reviewing matters pertaining to the urban forest. • Meets quarterly, during a weekday at the PDC Joint Environmental/Parks Board The duties of the Joint Committee are to review and recommend actions related to the Barton Springs Master Plan • Have not met in recent years 1. Richard Brimer (chair) 2. Mariana Krueger 3. Vacant 4. Vacant 5. Vacant 1. Haris Qureshi 2. Hanna Cofer 3. Vacant 4. Vacant 5. Vacant Joint Sustainability Committee (term: 4 years) Typically meet fourth Wednesday of the month at 6 pm at City Hall Haris Qureshi (primary, 2023) Vacant (alternate) South Central Waterfront Advisory Board (Term: 2 years) Vacant Typically meet the third Monday of every month unless otherwise specified at 6 :00 p.m. at the PDC • • • 1 of 1
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250402-006 Date: April 2, 2025 Subject: 2026 Budget Recommendations from the Joint Sustainability Committee Motion by: Haris Qureshi WHEREAS, … AND WHEREAS, … AND WHEREAS, … THEREFORE, The Environmental Commission recommends the following budget recommendations, as recommended by the Joint Sustainability Committee: Sustainable Building Budget recommendations: Second by: 1. Water Leak Detection and Repair Programs: In 2023, Austin Water loss was 8,678,000,000 gallons of water which equates to 21.68 gallons per capita per day of water loss. This waste also results in unnecessary greenhouse gas emissions from the energy needed to pump and treat the water. Austin Water’s current budget includes $2 million/year for leak detection and $6 million for repairs, but water waste would be reduced faster with an increased budget. An additional staff person would be needed to help manage the additional work. The Environmental Commission Recommends that the Austin Water water leak detection budget be increased to $3 million/year and the repair budget be increased to $7 million/year, including the addition of one full time staff position to manage the increased work. 2. Residential and Commercial Landscape Conversion Rebates for Water Conservation: During summer months, the use of water dramatically increases, mainly due to the watering of landscapes. Turf areas in particular require the most water per square foot in any landscape. While ordinances for new construction can help reduce the amount of turf areas, existing properties don’t have requirements to adapt their landscapes to conserve water. Reducing the amount of turf grass that requires a lot of water to survive will help conserve water and reduce energy use needed for pumping and treatment. Austin Water should offer more substantial and accessible rebates for landscape conversions. Currently, Austin Water offers a landscape conversion rebate of $100 per 100 square feet, up to a maximum rebate of $3000. Most conversions will be smaller areas and thus, the currently offered rebate amounts don’t incentivize many customers to implement landscape conversions. In 2023, only 19 rebate applications were submitted to Austin Water. Austin 1 of 9 Water should implement a tiered rebate structure that offers more rebate money for smaller areas of landscape conversion for residential properties and should substantially increase the maximum rebate offered. As suggested by the Get Fertilizer Wiser campaign, there should also be incentives that are more easily accessible to individuals who may not need to fully remove turf grass in order to …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250402-007 Seconded By: _____ Date: April 2, 2025 Subject: City-Wide On-Demand Micro Transit to Parks and Recreation Centers Motioned By: Richard Brimer WHEREAS, many of Austin's favorite parks, including Zilker Park, Vic Matthias Shores, Michael Butler Park, Roy G. Guerrero Park, Bull Creek Park, and the Barton Creek Greenbelt have parking capacity problems on busy days; and WHEREAS, Austin's voters have indicated support for public transit solutions to the extent of willingness to be taxed specifically for solutions; and WHEREAS, On-Demand transit (aka Demand-Response transit), which offers shared-ride van service summoned by cell phone, browser app, or telephone, can provide direct transit from a rider's location to their destination, including any City Park, thus relieving the need to take a personal car; and WHEREAS, compared to conventional fixed-route modes that have first mile/last-mile problems and often involve transfers between vehicles, direct van transit offers an ease-of-use and accessible advantage for carrying recreational equipment, children, and small groups to and from a park; and WHEREAS, by reducing the number of car and truck trips to parks and recreation centers from any city- wide origin, On-Demand transit can reduce the demand for on-site and near on-site parking; and WHEREAS, CapMetro currently offers On-Demand van service (Pickup) in several zones around the city, but only within those zones; WHEREAS, experience in other cities suggests that On-Demand transit can be successfully offered as a citywide service, providing rides between any source and destination within the city; and WHEREAS, the Capital Area Rural Transportation System (CARTS) provides similar on demand services for clients in Bastrop, Elgin, La Grange, Lockhart, Marble Falls, and Taylor with connections to larger transit systems at a reasonable price; and WHEREAS, the only public transit to many parks is by fixed route/fixed schedule bus, with many parks having little or no public transit access; and WHEREAS, On-Demand fleets can serve multiple purposes, supporting work commuting on weekdays and recreational commuting during more popular recreational hours; and WHEREAS, public transit agencies typically set On-Demand fares so that rides are affordable for all citizens; and WHEREAS, On-Demand service requires no physical infrastructure, so is more adaptable to long-term changes in the configuration of the city and can be financed with much lower capital expenditure than other forms of public transit with the possible exception of conventional buses; and WHEREAS, commercially available modeling technology is available that would support rich, formal …
1. 2. 3. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, March 19, 2025 The Environmental Commission convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Cofer called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Hanna Cofer, Richard Brimer, Justin Fleury, Ashika Ganguly, Mariana Krueger, Haris Qureshi, David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Jennifer Bristol Commissioners Absent: Isabella Changsut, Melinda Schiera PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Paul Gosselink, Development on Shoal Creek APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on March 5, 2025 The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on March 5, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Ganguly was off the dais. Commissioners Changsut and Schiera were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS Recognition of Perry Bedford for his service on the Environmental Commission – Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Department Item conducted as posted. No action taken. Presentation and discussion regarding guiding principles and scoring criteria for the 2026 Bond – Pam Kearfott, Managing Engineer, and Kelly Gagnon, Planner Principal, Watershed Protection Department Item conducted as posted. No action taken. 1 4. 5. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Presentation on Watershed Protection Department's Fiscal Year 2025 Budget, Programs, and Projects Overview and approve recommendations for their FY26 budget — Anupa Gharpurey, Assistant Director, and Pam Kearfott, Managing Engineer, Watershed Protection Department A motion to recommend priorities for Watershed Protection Department’s 2026 budget passed on Commissioner Bristol’s motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Changsut and Schiera were absent. Discussion and recommendation on budget priorities from the Joint Sustainability Committee – Harris Qureshi and Perry Bedford, Environmental Commissioners A motion to postpone the Joint Sustainability Committee’s 2026 budget priorities to the April 2nd meeting passed on Commissioner Qureshi’s motion, Commissioner Bristol’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Changsut and Schiera were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Commissioner Sullivan requested an agenda item to appoint a commissioner to the South Central Waterfront Advisory Board. Elizabeth Funk (Watershed Protection) stated that committee appointments will bee on the April 2nd meeting. Commissioner Brimer mentioned that the Urban Forestry Committee will also need new members. Secretary Bristol reminded the commission that officer elections will also be held at the April 2nd meeting. ADJOURNMENT Vice Chair Cofer adjourned the meeting at 8:26 pm without objection. 2
Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission March 19, 2025 at 6:00 PM Permitting And Development Center, Events Center, Room 1405 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Environmental Commission will 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 Elizabeth Funk, Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@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). CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Haris Qureshi Justin Fleury Mariana Krueger Melinda Schiera Hanna Cofer, Vice Chair Colin Nickells Jennifer Bristol, Secretary David Sullivan Richard Brimer Perry Bedford, Chair 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 Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on March 5, 2025 1 1. DISCUSSION ITEMS Recognition of Perry Bedford for his service on the Environmental Commission – Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Department Presentation and discussion regarding guiding principles and scoring criteria for the 2026 Bond – Pam Kearfott, Managing Engineer, and Kelly Gagnon, Planner Principal, Watershed Protection Department DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Presentation on Watershed Protection Department's Fiscal Year 2025 Budget, Programs, and Projects Overview and approve recommendations for their FY26 budget — Anupa Gharpurey, Financial Manager, and Pam Kearfott, Managing Engineer, Watershed Protection Department Discussion and recommendation on budget priorities from the Joint Sustainability Committee – Harris Qureshi and Perry Bedford, Environmental Commissioners 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 …
1. 2. 3. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, March 5, 2025 The Environmental Commission convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Bedford called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:08 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Perry Bedford, Richard Brimer, Justin Fleury, Mariana Krueger, Colin Nickells, Haris Qureshi, David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: None Commissioners Absent: Jennifer Bristol, Hanna Cofer, Melinda Schiera PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on February 19, 2025 The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on February 19, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Schiera was off the dais. Commissioners Bristol, Cofer, and Schiera were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS Recognition of Colin Nickells for his service on the Environmental Commission – Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Department Item conducted as posted. No action taken. Recognition of Melinda Schiera for her service on the Environmental Commission – Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Department Item was postponed to the next meeting. 1 Presentation and discussion on Austin Energy Green Building – Heidi Kasper, Energy Efficiency Services Director, Austin Energy Item conducted as posted. No action taken. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and recommendation on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Austin Light Rail – Commissioners Sullivan and Qureshi A motion to recommend the draft environmental impact statement for Austin Light Rail failed on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second, on a 5-1 vote. Commissioner Brimer voted against. Commissioner Qureshi abstained. Commissioners Bristol, Cofer, and Schiera were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT Commissioner Qureshi requested to add budget recommendations from the Joint Sustainability Committee to the budget meeting. This request was seconded by Bedford Chair Bedford adjourned the meeting at 7:32 pm without objection. 4. 5. 2
Guiding Principles & Technical Criteria for the 2026 Bond Development Program N I T S U A F O Y T I C Environmental Commission Meeting March 19, 2025 Kelly Gagnon, Principal Planner Pam Kearfott, Managing Engineer W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T Presentation Overview 2 N I T S U A F O Y T I C 1. Introduction to the Watershed Protection Department (WPD) 2. WPD & General Obligation (G.O.) Bond History 3. 2026 Bond Development Process & Guiding Principles 4. WPD Technical Criteria for 2026 Bond Development W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 3 Watershed Protection Department (WPD): Mission To protect the lives, property, and environment of our community by reducing the impacts of flooding, erosion, and water pollution. N I T S U A F O Y T I C W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 4 N I T S U A F O Y T I C WPD: Funding Sources Operations • Drainage Utility Charge • Other Fees and Interest Income Capital Program • Cash transfer from Operations • G.O. Bonds • Grants • Tax Increment Financing • Regional Stormwater Management Program (RSMP) & Urban Structural Control Fund (USCF) Payments W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 5 N I T S U A F O Y T I C WPD: Strategic Plan “Worst Problems First” • Defines mission • Sets goals + objectives • Defines “Problem Score” methodologies for prioritization • Commits to data and asset management • Shares our solutions inventory • Defines framework to identify “preferred solutions” • Sets recommendations W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 6 WPD: Strategic Plan Needs Assessment Over $2 billion needed to solve the most severe watershed problems and critical asset management …
N I T S U A F O Y T I C Watershed Protection Department FY25 Budget, Programs, and Projects Environmental Commission Meeting March 19, 2025 Anupa Gharpurey, Assistant Director, Business Enterprises Pam Kearfott, Managing Engineer, Project Design & Delivery W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 2 Overview N I T S U A F O Y T I C • Mission & Organizational Structure • FY25 Budget Highlights • Programmatic Activities • Capital Improvement Program • Project Highlights • Resources W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 3 N I T S U A F O Y T I C Mission & Organizational Structure W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 4 Our Start: Established in 1991, Watershed Protection Department was charged with the goal of managing the City’s creeks, drainage systems and water quality programs. Our Mission: “…to protect the lives, property, and environment of our community by reducing the impact of floods, erosion, and water pollution.” Our Funding: Primary Source: Drainage Charge - >94% Other sources: Bonds (for Capital Projects), Development Fees, Interest Income, Grants N I T S U A F O Y T I C W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 5 Current Organizational Structure N I T S U A F O Y T I C W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 6 FY25 Financial Structure Watershed Protection Total FTEs: 442.5 Monitoring, Modeling and Compliance FTEs: 105.5 Project Design & Delivery FTEs: 62 Field Operations FTEs: 173 Business Enterprises FTEs: 102 W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T N I T S U A F O Y T I …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250319-004 Date: March 19, 2025 Subject: Watershed Protection Department FY 2026-2027 Budget, Programs, and Projects Motion by: Jennifer Bristol Seconded by: David Sullivan WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission was presented the Watershed Protection Department’s (WPD) Fiscal year 2025 budget; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission understands the Watershed Protection Department’s (WPD) annual Financial Forecast is still being prepared and the final plan will be provided to Council in near future; and THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission supports the Watershed Protection Department’s Budget, Programs, and Projects as presented to the Commission with the following recommendations: • Invest in design development for priority identified drainage and stormwater projects that might be eligible for a future bond package. For: Hanna Cofer, Jennifer Bristol, Richard Brimer, Justin Fleury, Ashika Ganguly, Mariana Krueger, Haris Qureshi, David Sullivan VOTE 8-0 Against: None Recuse: None Abstain: None Approved By: Absent: Isabella Changsut and Melinda Schiera Elizabeth Funk, Environmental Commission Liaison
Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission March 5, 2025 at 6:00 PM Permitting And Development Center, Events Center, Room 1405 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Environmental Commission will 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 Elizabeth Funk, Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@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). CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Haris Qureshi Justin Fleury Mariana Krueger Melinda Schiera Hanna Cofer, Vice Chair Colin Nickells Jennifer Bristol, Secretary David Sullivan Richard Brimer Perry Bedford, Chair 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 Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on February 19, 2025 1 1. DISCUSSION ITEMS Recognition of Colin Nickells for his service on the Environmental Commission – Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Department Recognition of Melinda Schiera for her service on the Environmental Commission – Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Department Presentation and discussion on Austin Energy Green Building – Heidi Kasper, Energy Efficiency Services Director, Austin Energy DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and recommendation on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Austin Light Rail – Commissioners Sullivan and Qureshi 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 call Elizabeth Funk, Watershed Protection Department, a(512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov, Watershed Protection Department, for additional information; …
1. 2. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, February 19, 2025 The Environmental Commission convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Bedford called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Perry Bedford, Jennifer Bristol, Hanna Cofer, Justin Fleury, Mariana Krueger, Colin Nickells, Haris Qureshi, Melinda Schiera, David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Richard Brimer Commissioners Absent: None PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on February 5, 2025 The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on February 5, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Commissioner Schiera’s second on a 10-0 vote. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Presentation, discussion, and action regarding a recommendation to Austin City Council on the creation, continuation, termination, and status of a concession including issuance of a Request for Proposal for a concession in Town Lake Metropolitan Park for inclusion in the joint report between the Parks and Recreation Board and the Environmental Commission that is provided to City Council annually – Karen Charles, Contract Management Specialist, and Denisha Cox, Contract Management Supervisor, Parks and Recreation Department. Speakers: Karen Charles, PARD 1 3. 4. Denisha Cox, PARD Pat Rossett, PARD Jesús Aguirre, PARD Christine Chute Canul, PARD Holly Reed Ricardo Chavana Dorothy Barnett Laura Massengale Craig Nazor Phil Thomas Bertha Rendon Delgado Ted Eubanks A motion to recommend the PARD concessions report was made on Commissioner Bristol’s motion and Commissioner Kruger’s second. An amendment to the original motion to state the commission “approves the 2024 concessions report acknowledging that staff meets the current code” passed on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, seconded by Commissioner Bristol, on an 8-1 vote. Commissioner Brimer voted against. Commissioner Cofer recused from the agenda item. An amendment by Commissioner Brimer to delay the implementation of Phase II of the Trail Conservancy POMA passed with no objection. Commissioner Cofer recused from the agenda item. An amendment to delay the implementation of the Expedition School concession failed due to a lack of a second. Commissioner Cofer recused from the agenda item. The original motion with amendments passed on an 8-1 vote. Commissioner Brimer voted against. Commissioner Cofer recused from the agenda item. Discussion and recommendation on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Austin Light Rail – Commissioners Sullivan and Qureshi A motion to postpone the draft environmental …
Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission February 19, 2025 at 6:00 PM Permitting And Development Center, Events Center, Room 1405 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Environmental Commission will 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 Elizabeth Funk, Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@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). CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Haris Qureshi Mariana Krueger Melinda Schiera Hanna Cofer, Vice Chair Colin Nickells Jennifer Bristol, Secretary David Sullivan Richard Brimer Perry Bedford, Chair 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 Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on February 5, 2025 1 1. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Presentation, discussion, and action regarding a recommendation to Austin City Council on the creation, continuation, termination, and status of a concession including issuance of a Request for Proposal for a concession in Town Lake Metropolitan Park for inclusion in the joint report between the Parks and Recreation Board and the Environmental Commission that is provided to City Council annually – Karen Charles, Contract Management Specialist, and Denisha Cox, Contract Management Supervisor, Parks and Recreation Department. Discussion and recommendation on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Austin Light Rail – Commissioners Sullivan and Qureshi Presentation and discussion on Austin’s wildfire risk and Austin Fire Department’s mitigation efforts – David Bock, Wildfire Mitigation Specialist Sr, Austin Fire Department DISCUSSION ITEMS 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 …
1. 2. 3. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, February 5, 2025 The Environmental Commission convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Bedford called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Perry Bedford, Jennifer Bristol, Justin Fleury, Mariana Krueger, Haris Qureshi, Melinda Schiera, David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Colin Nickells and Richard Brimer Commissioners Absent: Hanna Cofer PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Bobby Levinski, SOS, Mopac South Project concerns APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on December 4, 2024 The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on December 4, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Qureshi’s second 7-0 vote. Commissioner Nickels abstained. Commissioner Krueger was off the dais. Commissioner Coffer was absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS Presentation and discussion on Austin Light Rail Update – Austin Transit Partnership staff. Item conducted as posted. No action taken. PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ACTION ITEMS Name: Westcreek Mixed Use, SP-2023-0276C Applicant: Quiddity, Justin Cadieux, PE Location: 5725 W US 290 Highway EB, Austin, TX, 78749 1 4. Council District: District 8 Staff: Mike McDougal, Environmental Policy Program Manager, Development Services Department; 512-974-6380, mike.mcdougal@austintexas.gov Applicant request: Redevelopment Exception in the Barton Springs Zone [LDC 25-8- 26] Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends the Redevelopment Exception for this project. Speakers: Mike McDougal David Hartman Leigh Ziegler Rita Berry Bobby Levinski Roy Wayley Craig Nazor Justin Cadieux Liz Johnston A motion to close the public hearing passed on Commissioner Bedford’s motion, Commissioner Schiera’s second, on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Cofer was absent. A motion to recommend the Westcreek Mixed Use Redevelopment Exception with conditions passed on Commissioner Bristol’s motion, Commissioner Bedford’s second, on a 9–0 vote. Commissioner Cofer was absent. Chair Bedford called for a recess at 9:02. Chair Bedford reconvened the meeting at 9:10. Name: Taylor Slough Dredge Maintenance, SP-2024-0019D Applicant: Janis J. Smith, P.E., Janis Smith Consulting Location: 3704 ½ Meadowbank Dr, Austin, TX, 78703 Council District: District 10 Staff: Miranda Reinhard, Environmental Scientist Senior, Watershed Protection Department 512-978-1537, miranda.reinhard@austintexas.gov Applicant request: Request to vary from LDC 25-8-261(C)(9)(a) to allow more than 25 cubic yards of dredging in Lake Austin. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends this variance with conditions Speakers: Miranda Reinhard Janis J. Smith David Goodman 2 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. A motion to close the public hearing passed on Commissioner Bedford’s …
