20260415-003, Rain to River Strategic Plan Recommendation — original pdf

Recommendation

. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Environmental Commission Recommendation 20260415-003: Rain To River Strategic Plan WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission was given a presentation on the Austin Watershed Protection Rain to River Strategic Plan; and WHEREAS, climate change is driving more extreme weather, including more intense storms and prolonged drought; and WHEREAS, historic inequities have left some neighborhoods more exposed to flooding and degraded waterways; and WHEREAS, Urbanization and development add pressure to our natural environment and infrastructure, with rising housing costs driving the displacement of residents and an increase in people experiencing homelessness; and WHEREAS, the Rain To River Strategic Plan seeks to reduce the impacts of flooding, erosion, and water pollution with a holistic and proactive approach that includes community voices, lived experience, and shared stewardship as essential components of an equity-focused infrastructure. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Environmental Commission recommends Austin City Council to adopt the Rain To River Strategic Plan with the following additions: • Create an online implementation dashboard, similar to that of the Austin Climate Equity Plan, to monitor progress and allow for public accountability and support. • Explore opportunities for collaboration with local indigenous groups in the pursuit of greater ecological restoration and community healing. Date of Approval: April 15, 2026 Motioned By: Secretary Qureshi Seconded By: Commissioner Brimer Vote: For: 10-0 Chair Krueger, Vice Chair Bristol, Secretary Qureshi, Commissioners Brimer, Fierro, Fleury, Luecke, Moretta-Urdiales, Morrison, and Sullivan Against: None Abstain: None . Off the dais: None Absent: Commissioner Changsut Attest: _____________________________________________ Mariana Krueger, Chair