Urban Forestry Committee Meeting March 28th, 2024 at 10:00 AM Permitting And Development Center, Events Center, Room 1401 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Urban Forestry Committee will be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email 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: Richard Brimer (Committee Chair) Mariana Krueger Colin Nickells Melinda Schiera CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 5 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 STAFF BRIEFINGS 1. Approve the minutes of the Urban Forestry Committee Meeting of October 12, 2023 2. Staff briefing heritage tree administrative variance procedures – Jim Dymkowski, Division Manager, Community Tree Preservation, Development Services Department 3. Staff briefing on overall tree preservation numbers – Jim Dymkowski, Urban Forestry, Development Services Department 4. Staff update on drafted tree preservation incentives in HOME code amendments – Jim Dymkowski, Urban Forestry, Development Services Department Emily King, Urban Forestry, Development Services Department 5. Discuss ghost trees and how they are addressed in the current heritage tree ordinance– 6. Discuss Committee goals for the upcoming year – Mariana Krueger DISCUSSION ITEMS Richard Brimer 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 512-568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov; for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. Protection Department, Funk, Watershed at
Peer 1 1 Urban Forestry Committee Meeting March 28, 2024 Jim Dymkowski DSD-Community Tree Division Overview • Heritage tree administrative variance procedures • Overall tree preservation numbers 2023 • Staff update on drafted tree preservation incentives for HOME code amendments phase 1 2 Point 1 Administering Heritage Tree Variances (Process matters) The Larger the Tree, the Greater the Protection 4 Heritage Trees in Austin • Is a tree that has a diameter of 24 inches or more, measured four and one-half feet above natural grade, and is one of the following species: • Texas Ash, Bald Cypress, American elm ,Cedar elm, Texas madrone, Bigtooth maple, All oaks, Pecan, Arizona walnut, and Eastern Black walnut • 25-8-641 – Prohibits removal unless a permit is issued and is only issued if a variance is approved under Section 25-8-642 (Administrative Variance) or 25- 8-643 (Land Use Commission Variance). • The requirements apply to trees on private and public property. • Without a variance, a damaged heritage tree may be removed that is an imminent hazard to life or property if removed within seven days of being damaged. The director may extend this deadline for widespread and extensive storm damage 5 Review Criteria for Protected and Heritage Trees Code Criteria for Removal 1. Prevents a reasonable use 2. Prevents reasonable access 3. Dead, diseased, or imminent hazard 4. For a tree located on public property or a public street or easement:(a)prevents the opening of necessary vehicular traffic lanes in a street or alley; or 5. Prevents the construction of utility or drainage facilities that may not feasibly be rerouted. 6 Due Process for Administering Heritage Tree Ordinance 25-8-642 - ADMINISTRATIVE VARIANCE • May be granted for any size Heritage Tree if it is determined to be based on the City Arborist's recommendation: • Dead, diseased, or imminent hazard • No application fee and no mitigation are required for a variance request under these conditions. 8 25-8-642 - ADMINISTRATIVE VARIANCE • For a heritage tree that does not have at least one stem that is 30 inches in diameter and only after determining, based on the city arborist's recommendation, that the heritage tree meets the approval criteria for removal • prevents reasonable use or access to the property • for a tree located on public property or a public street or easement:(a)prevents the opening of necessary vehicular traffic lanes in a street or alley; or …
1. 2. URBAN FORESTRY COMMITTEE MEETING REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, October 12, 2023 The Urban Forestry Committee convened in a REGULAR meeting on Wednesday, October 12, 2023, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Brimer called the Urban Forestry Committee Meeting to order at 10:03 a.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Richard Brimer Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Mariana Krueger, Melinda Schiera Commissioners Absent: Colin Nickells PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Urban Forestry Committee Meeting of June 24, 2021 The minutes from the regular meeting on June 24th, 2021 were approved on Commissioner Brimer’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second on a 3–0 vote. Commissioner Nickells was absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Approve an annual meeting schedule for 2024 The Urban Forestry meeting schedule for 2024, with changes as discussed for the September 2024 meeting, was approved on Commissioner Brimer’s motion, Commissioner Schiera’s second on a 3–0 vote. Commissioner Nickells was absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing on tree removal permitting process and public complaints – Jim Dymkowski, Urban Forestry, Development Services Department Item conducted as posted. No action taken. 3. Staff briefing on Austin’s Tree Canopy and goals – Emily King, Urban Forestry, Development Services Department Item conducted as posted. No action taken. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Commissioner Schiera requested an opportunity to set goals for the committee. Commissioner Krueger seconded the request. Commissioner Brimer requested a list of the repeat offenders for illegal tree removals and information on how pervasive the problem of repetitive illegal removals is, emphasizing that he is asking for only information that is publicly available. Commissioner Krueger is in interested understanding the accountability mechanisms and the authority the city has for tree removal violators. Commissioner Krueger asked about a presentation on the intersection between tree canopy goals, climate equity, and food plan. Chair Brimer adjourned the meeting at 11:56 a.m. without objection.
Special Called Meeting of the Environmental Commission March 28, 2024 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 Peter Einhorn Mariana Krueger Melinda Schiera Hanna Cofer AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Colin Nickells Jennifer Bristol, Secretary Kevin Ramberg, Chair David Sullivan Richard Brimer Perry Bedford, Vice Chair 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. 1 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 1. Presentation on Watershed Protection Department's Fiscal Year 2024 Budget, Programs, and Projects Overview and approve recommendations for their FY25 budget — Anupa Gharpurey, Financial Manager, and Pam Kearfott, Managing Engineer, Watershed Protection Department 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, at (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov, Watershed Protection Department, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Environmental Commission, please contact Elizabeth Funk, (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov, Watershed Protection Department. 2
Watershed Protection Department FY24 Budget, Programs, and Projects 1 Overview ◦ Mission & Organizational Structure ◦ FY24 Budget Highlights ◦ Programmatic Activities ◦ Capital Improvement Program ◦ Project Highlights ◦ Resources 2 Mission & Organizational Structure 3 Our Department & Mission 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 4 WPD Organizational Structure Watershed Protection Total FTEs: 442.5 Planning, Monitoring, & Compliance FTEs: 105.5 Project Design & Delivery FTEs: 62 Field Operations FTEs: 173 Support Services FTEs: 102 5 FY24 Budget Highlights 6 FY 2024 Budget Expenses by Program Total Budget: $114.7 Million Other Transfers 19.2 Projects Design and Delivery 8.6 Planning, Monitoring, & Compliance 14.6 Transfer to CIP 28.0 Support Services 15.8 Field Operations 28.5 7 Programmatic Activities 8 Funding Sources • Operations ◦ Drainage Utility Charge Based on Amount and Percent of Impervious cover ◦ Other Fees and Interest Income Site plans, subdivisions, MUD, PUDs; Permit Fees • Capital Projects ◦ Cash transfer from operations ◦ GO bonds ◦ Grants ◦ Tax Increment Financing ◦ RSMP and USCF Payments 9 FY24 Funding Source and Uses Funding Sources Revenue Source Drainage Utility Charge Development, licenses and permit Fees Interest Income and other misc. revenue Total Funding Uses Funding uses Personnel Cost Other program costs Transfers Total $Millions 104.1 1.4 5.2 110.7 $Millions 48.8 18.7 47.2 114.7 10 Watershed Operational Activities • Drainage infrastructure maintenance • Trash and debris removal • Land management & ponds maintenance 11 Watershed Operational Activities • Pollution prevention and response • Floodplain modeling and development review • Environmental policy and planning • Environmental research and data analysis 12 Watershed Operational Activities • Storm event monitoring • Replenishing creek beds • Community education and outreach 13 Capital Improvement Program 14 Capital Improvement Program: Overview ◦ Projects in the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) are major improvements to our infrastructure, facilities, and waterways ◦ CIP projects have a higher price tag and longer lifespan than routine maintenance or in-house projects funded through the operating budget Storm drain improvement project 15 Capital Improvement Program: Priorities Flooding in the Onion Creek watershed ◦ …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20220330-001 Date: March 28, 2024 Subject: Watershed Protection Department FY 2024-2025 Budget, Programs, and Projects Motion by: Perry Bedford Seconded by: Peter Einhorn WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission was presented the Watershed Protection Department’s (WPD) Fiscal year 2024 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: Continue to support the funding for trash removal and working with profit and nonprofit contracts for trash removal in the community and neighborhoods. Research federal and state funding available to supplement city funding for applicable improvement projects. Replenishing creek beds Pollution prevention and response Personnel and wage increases as appropriate VOTE 7-0 Invest money in water quality monitoring to quantify the impact of the IH-35 expansion. For: Perry Bedford, Rick Brimer, Hanna Cofer, Peter Einhorn, Marianna Krueger, Melinda Schiera, David Sullivan Against: None Recuse: None Absent: Jennifer Bristol, Kevin Ramberg, Colin Nickells, Haris Qureshi Approved By: Perry Bedford, Environmental Commission Vice Chair
Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission March 20, 2024 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 Peter Einhorn Mariana Krueger Melinda Schiera Hanna Cofer AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Colin Nickells Jennifer Bristol, Secretary Kevin Ramberg, Chair David Sullivan Richard Brimer Perry Bedford, Vice Chair 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. 1 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on March 6, 2024 Presentation on the South Central Waterfront Combining District with a Density Bonus – April Geruso of the City of Austin Planning Department. APPROVAL OF MINUTES DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Consider a recommendation on the budget recommendations from the Joint Sustainability Committee – Presented by Haris Qureshi and David Sullivan, Environmental Commission Members COMMITTEE UPDATES Update from the Urban Forestry Committee on adding a discussion on ghost trees to the March 28th agenda – Richard Brimer Update from the South Central Waterfront Advisory Board on the status of the Combining District & Density Bonus Program and Planned Unit Development applications – David Sullivan 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 …
South Central Waterfront Combining District & Density Bonus Program Environmental Commission March 20, 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 3 City Council Resolution 20220915-090 Directed Planning Staff to create regulations supporting implementation of the 2016 South Central Waterfront Vision Framework Plan. Increased development only available through the Density Bonus Maximize community benefits: affordable housing, open space, and Maximize infrastructure investments: new streets, parks, bikeways, Program. public art, etc. and trails. Program to be re-evaluated/updated at least every five years. 4 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. 5 City Council Resolution 20220915-090 Create a connected, pedestrian-oriented, mixed-use district where “thousands more Austinites can live, work, and play.” 6 Updates / Changes since Council Resolution 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. 7 District Boundary New parcels added that are affected by Project Connect light rail alignment. Project Connect Rail Alignment 8 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 9 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 10 Streets and Light Rail 11 Subdistricts Council approval is required to exceed FAR maximums Project Connect Rail Alignment 12 Critical Water Quality Zones 13 …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240320-003 Date: March 20, 2023 Subject: Budget Recommendations from the Joint Sustainability Committee Motion by: WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the Joint Sustainability Committee has considered these items based on requests for input from the Austin City Council, WHEREAS, these items all would contribute to more sustainable growth and environmental benefits for Austin. THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends the following budget items, as recommended by the Joint Sustainability Committee. Second by: (est. $150,000) 1. One (1) Climate Equity Plan Project Manager be added to the Office of Sustainability. 2. $320,000 be allocated to the Office of Sustainability for: a. A Community Engagement Specialist (1 FTE) to coordinate community outreach and partnership activities associated with promoting the full suite of City of Austin sustainability incentives (i.e., home weatherization and repair, water conservation, rainwater collection, landscape and green infrastructure programs), with a focus on building relationships with low-income communities, communities of color, and related organizations and service providers. (est. $120,000) b. $200,000 for grants, contracts, and stipends for community leaders and community-based organizations to do direct outreach to promote sustainability incentive programs in targeted Austin communities, in partnership with the Office of Sustainability. 3. Regarding the Sustainable Purchasing Plan: a. $125,000 be allocated to hire a sustainable purchasing contractor and/or purchase needed software and databases to develop a Sustainable Purchasing Plan that sets minimum standards for all products, materials and services purchased by the city; b. A full-time Sustainable Purchasing Director position should be added to the Purchasing Department. If an FTE is determined to be infeasible in this budget cycle, a temporary Sustainable Purchasing Director position should be established and funded. (est. $170,000) 4. $200,000 be allocated to the Office of Sustainability for a Pro-Climate Food Education and Incentive Program. These funds should be spent on a multi-lingual public education and marketing campaign to promote pro-climate/pro-health plant-based meat, dairy and egg alternatives, and identification of opportunities to provide effective incentives for 1 of 3 proclimate/pro-health foods at local restaurants and grocery stores. The Office of Sustainability and Austin Public Health should work together on the public education and marketing campaign. 5. $150,000 be allocated to the Office of the City Engineer division of Austin Transportation and Public Works Department for: a. Field pour demonstrations using concrete containing a total cementitious content that is 50% or more decarbonized relative to a national ordinary Portland cement average embodied carbon intensity …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240320-003 Date: March 20, 2024 Subject: Budget Recommendations from the Joint Sustainability Committee Motion by: David Sullivan WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the Joint Sustainability Committee has considered these items based on requests for input from the Austin City Council, WHEREAS, these items all would contribute to more sustainable growth and environmental benefits for Austin. THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends the following budget items, as recommended by the Joint Sustainability Committee. Second by: Richard Brimer (est. $150,000) 1. One (1) Climate Equity Plan Project Manager be added to the Office of Sustainability. 2. $320,000 be allocated to the Office of Sustainability for: a. A Community Engagement Specialist (1 FTE) to coordinate community outreach and partnership activities associated with promoting the full suite of City of Austin sustainability incentives (i.e., home weatherization and repair, water conservation, rainwater collection, landscape and green infrastructure programs), with a focus on building relationships with low-income communities, communities of color, and related organizations and service providers. (est. $120,000) b. $200,000 for grants, contracts, and stipends for community leaders and community-based organizations to do direct outreach to promote sustainability incentive programs in targeted Austin communities, in partnership with the Office of Sustainability. 3. Regarding the Sustainable Purchasing Plan: a. $125,000 be allocated to hire a sustainable purchasing contractor and/or purchase needed software and databases to develop a Sustainable Purchasing Plan that sets minimum standards for all products, materials and services purchased by the city; b. A full-time Sustainable Purchasing Director position should be added to the Purchasing Department. If an FTE is determined to be infeasible in this budget cycle, a temporary Sustainable Purchasing Director position should be established and funded. (est. $170,000) 4. $200,000 be allocated to the Office of Sustainability for a Pro-Climate Food Education and Incentive Program. These funds should be spent on a multi-lingual public education and marketing campaign to promote pro-climate/pro-health plant-based meat, dairy and egg alternatives, and identification of opportunities to provide effective incentives for proclimate/pro-health foods at local restaurants and grocery stores. The Office of 1 of 3 Sustainability and Austin Public Health should work together on the public education and marketing campaign. 5. $150,000 be allocated to the Office of the City Engineer division of Austin Transportation and Public Works Department for: a. Field pour demonstrations using concrete containing a total cementitious content that is 50% or more decarbonized relative to a national ordinary Portland cement …
Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission March 6, 2024 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 Peter Einhorn Mariana Krueger Melinda Schiera Hanna Cofer AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Colin Nickells Jennifer Bristol, Secretary Kevin Ramberg, Chair David Sullivan Richard Brimer Perry Bedford, Vice Chair 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. 1 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on February 21, 2024 DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. PUBLIC HEARINGS Recognition of Kevin Ramberg for his service on the Environmental Commission – Katie Coyne, Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Department Make a recommendation regarding the request for 311-315 South Congress Planned Unit Development (PUD) (C814-2023-0027) located at 311, 313, 315 South Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas 78704 (District 9). Presenter: Leslie Lilly, Environmental Program Coordinator, Watershed Protection Department. Name: Ledgestone Revised Wastewater Service Extension Request #4622R Applicant: Danny Miller, P.E. LJA Engineering, Inc. Location: 9209 Ledgestone Terrace, Austin, Texas 78737 Council District: Austin 2-Mile Extraterritorial Jurisdiction Staff: Kaela Champlin, Environmental Program Coordinator, Watershed Protection Department Applicant request: Wastewater Service Extension Revision Staff recommendation: Recommended Name: Northwest Area Lift Station Improvements Great Hills Lift Station No.53 (SP- 2022-0537C) Applicant: Sharon Hamilton, Civil Team Engineers LLC on behalf of the Austin Water Utility Department Location: 9009 ½ Spicebrush Drive, Austin, TX 78759 Council District: District 6 Staff: Brad Jackson, Environmental Compliance Specialist …
ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA March 6, 2024 311-315 South Congress PUD, C814-2023-0027 Drenner Group (Amanda Swor) 311 South Congress Avenue COMMITTEE MEETING DATE: NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: LOCATION: COUNCIL DISTRICT: 9 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW STAFF: Leslie Lilly, Environmental Conservation Program Manager, (512)535-8914, Leslie.lilly@austintexas.gov WATERSHED: Lady Bird Lake & East Bouldin Creek Watersheds REQUEST: Planned Unit Development STAFF RECOMMENDATION: STAFF CONDITION: Staff recommended with conditions. Development associated with C814-2023-0027, located at 311 S. Congress Ave, shall comply with the following requirements. a. The PUD will comply with the City of Austin’s Green Building Program at a 3-star level. b. The project will be compliant with the LEED pilot Bird Collision Deterrence credit in regard to the Bird Collision Threat Rating for reflective glass within the Façade Zone 1 area as defined by LEED. Façade Zone 1 shall not have greater than 15% reflective glass c. The project does not request any exceptions or modifications to environmental regulations and will develop under the current code as of the date of the approval of the PUD. d. 100% of water quality controls required for this site will be treated on-site as opposed to payment of the fee-in-lieu of on-site treatment. e. 1,000 cubic feet of water quality volume will be provided for an off-site area, including a portion of Congress Ave. f. The project will incorporate approximately 250 linear feet of off-site storm improvement in Congress Ave. g. All required tree plantings shall utilize native tree species selected from Appendix F of the Environmental Criteria Manual (Descriptive Categories of Tree Species) and utilize Central Texas Native seed stock. h. All new street trees within the PUD will be a minimum of 5.5 caliper inches and a minimum of 14 feet in height and will contribute to the biodiversity of tree species of the site and this area of South Congress in addition to being of a species that will thrive in the proposed rain gardens. i. The PUD shall comply with the dark skies regulations in conformance with the Austin Energy Green buildings Standards identified in ST7 “Light Pollution Reduction”. j. All irrigation on site will be “off grid” of potential water utilizing either purple pipe, rainwater captured on the site and/or condensate capture. a. Include several landscape solutions that meet the intent of the pending Functional Green requirements. This will be achieved with the installation of …
311-315 South Congress PUD 311 S. Congress Avenue C814- 2023- 0027 Leslie Lilly Environmental Conservation Program Manager Watershed Protection 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 C814-2023-0027 SITE Site Location Austin ETJ Austin City Limits Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone Edwards Aquifer Contributing Zone 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 Site Background • Proposed new PUD • Existing commercial development • Current site – 0.81 acres • Full Purpose Jurisdiction • Council District 9 • Greater South River City Combined NPA SITE 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 • Mae Crockett Estate Subdivision • Platted 1976 • Existing development occurred prior to current environmental requirements 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 • Imagine Austin Corridor • South Central Waterfront Imagine Austin Town Center 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 Environmental Features • No Critical Water Quality Zone • No Critical Environmental Features • No naturally occurring slopes greater than 15% • Lady Bird Lake Watershed (Urban) • Outside of Edward Aquifer Recharge and Contributing Zone • No 100-year fully developed floodplain • 96.7% impervious cover 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 Land Use Plan C I T Y O F …
ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA COMMISSION MEETING DATE: March 6, 2024 NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: Ledgestone Revised Wastewater Service Extension Request #4622R NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: Danny Miller, P.E. LJA Engineering, Inc. LOCATION: 9209 Ledgestone Terrace, Austin, Texas 78737 COUNCIL DISTRICT: Austin 2-Mile Extraterritorial Jurisdiction PROJECT FILING DATE: November 3, 2023 WPD/ENVIRONMENTAL STAFF: Kaela Champlin, Environmental Program Coordinator (512) 974-3443, Kaela.Champlin@austintexas.gov WATERSHED: REQUEST: STAFF DETERMINATION: Recommended Slaughter Creek Watershed, Barton Springs Zone, Edwards Aquifer Contributing Zone, Drinking Water Protection Zone Wastewater Service Extension Revision 1 MEMORANDUM TO: Kevin Ramberg, Chair, and Members of the Environmental Commission FROM: Kaela Champlin, Environmental Program Coordinator Watershed Protection Department DATE: February 13, 2024 SUBJECT: Ledgestone Revised Wastewater SER #4622R Service Extension Requests (SER) located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone and outside of the City of Austin’s full purpose jurisdiction require Council approval and review by the Environmental Commission. Watershed Protection Department staff have completed the review for Ledgestone Wastewater Revised SER #4622R and recommend approval of the request. Site Overview The site consists of one tract of approximately 77.78 acres, located at 9209 Ledgestone Terrace. The site is in the City of Austin’s Two-Mile Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ), the Slaughter Creek Watershed, the Barton Springs Zone, and the Drinking Water Protection Zone. It is also within the Edwards Aquifer Contributing Zone and is subject to the Save Our Springs (SOS) Ordinance. Previously approved SERs The applicant previously received an approval for a wastewater SER (SER #4622) and a water SER (SER #5650) for this site. At the time, the applicant’s proposal was for a 550-unit multi- family development with 275 Living Unit Equivalents (LUEs). The wastewater SER was recommended by the Environmental Commission, Water and Wastewater Commission, and subsequently approved by Council in June of 2020. The water SER was requested and approved in May of 2023. The staff memo and recommendations from the Environmental Commission are attached as Exhibit A. Request Summary In the revised wastewater SER, the applicant is proposing to add 50 LUEs, an increase from 275 LUEs to 325 total LUEs to accommodate the addition of retail and restaurant space on the site. The proposed development includes: 2 Proposed Development Use Units Multifamily Condo Units Retail Restaurant 140 360 11,620 sq. ft. 8,000 sq. ft Total LUEs LUEs 98 180 7 40 325 The applicant resubmitted a site plan application that is currently in review (Case Number: SP- …
Ledgestone Revised Wastewater Service Extension Request #4622R What is an SER? • A service extension request, or SER, is an application for City water or wastewater service from a property owner or developer. • SERs are required when a property is located more than 100 feet from an accessible water or wastewater system, or when existing infrastructure isn't adequate for the proposed project demands. • Service may involve the construction of a new line or an associated facility or upgrades to existing lines or facilities. • The applicant pays for the associated infrastructure, as outlined in the SER. SER Process • Per the Land Development Code, SERs require Council approval if the property is in the Drinking Water Protection Zone and outside of the City's full purpose jurisdiction. • Environmental Commission and Water & Wastewater Commission review and make recommendations on SERs that require Council approval. • No conditions can be put on approval of SERs. Request Summary • 9209 Ledgestone Terrace • 77.78 acres • 2-Mile ETJ • Slaughter Creek Watershed, Barton Springs Zone • Located in the Edwards Aquifer Contributing Zone • Drinking Water Protection Zone (DWPZ) • Subject to Save Our Springs Ordinance SER #4622R Site Location Austin City Limits Austin ETJ Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone Edwards Aquifer Contributing Zone Previously approved SERs Wastewater SER #4622 • 275 LUEs • Recommended by Water SER #5650 • 275 LUEs • Recommended by Environmental Commission and Water and Wastewater Commission in June 2020 • Council approved in June Environmental Commission and Water and Wastewater Commission in May 2023 • Council approved in May 2020 2023 Site Location Proposed Development Intended Uses Previous wastewater request • 275 Living Unit Equivalents Current request • 325 Total LUEs (LUEs) • 550-unit multi-family development • Expired site plan SP-2021- 0473D – 140 condo-type units (89 LUEs) – 360 multi-family units (180 LUEs) – 11,620 sq ft Retail (7 LUEs) – 8,000 sq ft Restaurant (40 LUEs) • LUEs have increased by 50 due to the addition of retail & restaurant • Revised site plan in review • Current code standards SER #4622R Environmental • Natural channel of Slaughter Creek and critical water quality zone on portions of the site • One wetland critical environmental feature • Edwards Aquifer Contributing Zone • Slaughter Creek Watershed • Barton Springs Zone • Subject to Save Our Springs Ordinance • No vested rights are being requested • …
Northwest Area Lift Station Improvements Great Hills Lift Station No.53 9009 ½ Spicebrush Drive SP-2022-0537C Brad Jackson Environmental Compliance Specialist Senior Development Services Department 2 Property Data Bull Creek Watershed Water Supply Suburban Watershed Classification Drinking Water Protection Zone Not located over Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone Approximate 30,000 square-foot limits of construction on a 1.9-acre lot. Synopsis 3 Project is located behind a single-family home, accessed from a 300-foot-long driveway located along the property boundary of 2 single-family lots. The purpose of this project is to bring the lift station up to current COA standards and convert the existing dry pit/wet well duplex lift station to a single submersible lift station while addressing access improvements for maintenance vehicles in the event of an emergency repair. The new lift station will not be in the 100-yr floodplain. Variance Requests 4 To allow development in the CWQZ for a lift station per LDC 25-8-261 To allow construction of a building on a slope with a gradient of more than 25% per LDC 25-8-302(A)(1) To allow fill up to 14 feet for construction of a lift station exceeding the 4-foot limitation per LDC 25-8- 342 CWQZ and Floodplain Boundaries 5 Existing Lift Station Demolition 6 Structural Site Plan 12’x 20’ Building On Slopes 7 Site Construction For Lift Station 8 The lift station is located on areas of steep slopes, some exceeding 35% in grade. The fill up to14 feet is required to bring the elevation of the new lift station up to the level of the access drive Grading Exhibit 9 Proposed Lift Station 10 58’ feet Variance Recommendation and Conditions 11 Staff recommends the variances, having determined that the required findings of fact have been met. Staff also recommends and supports the following condition: • Provide structural containment of fill with a retaining wall Site Photos 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 THANK YOU
ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA COMMISSION MEETING DATE: March 6, 2024 NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: Northwest Area Lift Station Improvements Great Hills Lift Station No.53 (SP-2022-0537C) Sharon Hamilton, Civil Team Engineers LLC on behalf of the Austin Water Utility Department LOCATION: 9009 ½ Spicebrush Drive, Austin, TX 78759 COUNCIL DISTRICT: District 6 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW STAFF: WATERSHED: REQUEST NO. 1: REQUEST NO. 2: REQUEST NO. 3: Brad Jackson, Environmental Compliance Specialist Senior, DSD, 512-974-2128, Brad.Jackson@austintexas.gov Bull Creek, Water Supply Suburban, Drinking Water Protection Zone A Land Use Commission variance is requested to allow development in the CWQZ for a lift station per LDC 25-8-261 A Land Use Commission variance is requested to allow construction of a building on a slope with a gradient of more than 25% per LDC 25-8-302(A)(1) A Land Use Commission variance is requested to allow fill up to 14 feet for construction of a lift station exceeding the 4-foot limitation per LDC 25-8-342 Page 2 of 2 STAFF RECOMMENDATION NO. 1: STAFF RECOMMENDATION NO. 2: STAFF RECOMMENDATION NO. 3: Staff recommends approval of the variance with a condition Staff recommends approval of the variance with a condition Staff recommends approval of the variance with a condition STAFF CONDITION: Provide structural containment of the fill with a retaining wall. Page 2 of 2 Development Services Department Staff Recommendations Concerning Required Findings Project Name: Ordinance Standard: Watershed Protection Ordinance Variance Request: Northwest Area Lift Station Improvements To allow development in the CWQZ for a lift station per LDC 25-8-261 Include an explanation with each applicable finding of fact. A. Land Use Commission variance determinations from Chapter 25-8-41 of the City Code: 1. The requirement will deprive the applicant of a privilege available to owners of similarly situated property with approximately contemporaneous development subject to similar code requirements. Yes. The variance will not be providing a special privilege to the applicant. The lift station is currently existing and in operation to provide wastewater (WW) service to the neighborhood. The variance for construction in the CWQZ will allow the replacement of the existing lift station with a new lift station to continue to provide WW service to the neighborhood. The old lift station will be decommissioned when the new lift station is complete. 2. The variance: a) Is not necessitated by the scale, layout, construction method, or other design decision made by the applicant, unless …
