REGULAR MEETING OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 5, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1405 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Environmental Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Nicole Corona, 737-291-3084, Nicole.Corona@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Mariana Krueger, Chair Jennifer Bristol, Vice Chair Haris Qureshi, Secretary Richard Brimer Isabella Changsut Annie Fierro AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Justin Fleury Martin Luecke Allison Morrison David Sullivan The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on July 15, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding an update to the Bird-Friendly Design Resolution. Presentation by Leslie Lilly, Lily Rerecich, and Hannelore Sederholm, Austin Watershed Protection. Sponsored by Chair Krueger and Vice Chair Bristol. PUBLIC HEARINGS 3. Name: Great Wave - D Permit, SP-2026-0221D Applicant: John Dailey, Gray AES, PSC Location: 3900 West Howard Lane, Austin, Texas, 78728 Council District: 7 Staff: Brad Jackson, Environmental Compliance Specialist Senior, Austin Development Services, 512-974-2128, Brad.Jackson@austintexas.gov Applicant Request: Request to vary from LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut up to 20 feet; request to vary from LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill up to 20 feet. Staff Recommendation: Recommended with conditions COMMITTEE UPDATES 4. Update from the Urban Forestry Committee regarding upcoming meeting dates. Sponsored by Chair Krueger and Commissioner Brimer. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS City Code requires at least two board members sponsor an item to be included on an agenda. This section of the agenda provides members an opportunity to request items for future agendas. Staff should assume that if there is no objection from other members expressed at the meeting, the members’ silence indicates approval for staff to include on the next agenda. ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MINUTES REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, JULY 15, 2026 The Environmental Commission convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, located at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Kruger called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Mariana Krueger, Chair Jennifer Bristol, Vice Chair Isabella Changsut Justin Fleury Martin Luecke Allison Morrison David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Richard Brimer PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on July 15, 2026. The minutes from the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on July 15, 2026, were approved on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Brimer’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Changsut and Luecke were off the dais. Secretary Qureshi and Commissioner Fierro were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the history of Austin Watershed Protection ordinances. Presentation by Matt Hollon, Regulatory Policy Analyst, Austin Watershed Protection. The presentation was made by Matt Hollon, Regulatory Policy Analyst, Austin Watershed Protection. 1 DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. Discussion of Environmental Commission Bylaws. Discussed. Discussion of Robert’s Rules of Order, the Texas Open Meetings Act, and general commission procedures. Presentation by Commissioner Sullivan. The presentation was made by Commissioner Sullivan. Discussion of public comment process. Discussed. Discussion of the 2025-2026 goals and objectives of the Environmental Commission. Discussed. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Update from the Urban Forestry Committee regarding upcoming meeting dates. Sponsored by Chair Krueger and Commissioner Brimer. ADJOURNMENT Chair Krueger adjourned the meeting at 9:46 p.m. without objection. 2
Bird Friendly Design Update to Council Resolution No. 20241121-073 Austin Watershed Protection | August 5, 2026 Context ▪ Investigating Bird Window Collisions following City Council Resolution No. 20241121-073 ▪ Objectives from January 2026 Memorandum ▪ Residential Outreach Program ▪ Data Collection ▪ Green Building Policy Green Heron (credit: Jupiterimages/ Getty Images) 2 Intern Data ▪ Process ▪ Consulted Lights Out Texas Volunteer and Data Collection Protocol Coordination ▪ Systematically searched for dead or stunned birds, then photographing evidence ▪ Interns collected data during and after the close of migration season ▪ Walks occurred midday (after many bird strikes were already picked up) Poster of "Lights Out Texas Data Collection & Volunteer Protocol" (credit: Audubon Texas) Dead sparrow with ruler (credit: H. Sederholm) 3 Intern Data ▪ Results ▪ Found evidence of over 30 bird strikes in the span of six weeks ▪ Timing of data collection underscores greater number and distribution of bird strikes Spreadsheet recording the conditions, images, and locations of dead birds (credit: L. Rerecich and H. Sederholm) 4 Intern Data ▪ Process ▪ Route located in the South Central Waterfront ▪ Includes all faces of the building with windows and accessible to surveyors Map of survey route throughout the South Central Waterfront (credit: H. Sederholm) 5 Intern Data ▪ Cooperating with Building Services ▪ Meeting with building managers ▪ Creating data collection methods Digital form for collecting data on bird strikes, in Spanish Digital form for collecting data on bird strikes, in English 6 Downtown Austin Alliance Data ▪ Downtown Austin Alliance is a local nonprofit with a mission to "create, preserve and enhance the vibe, vitality and value of Downtown Austin for everyone." ▪ Conducts myriad projects, direct services, and research ▪ Regularly encounters and records bird fatalities in downtown Image of downtown Austin's skyline (credit: Wirestock/ Getty Images) 7 Downtown Austin Alliance Data ▪ They have recorded 446 collisions this year alone ▪ Indicates large impact of collisions Map of bird strike fatalities in July (credit: Downtown Austin Alliance) Dead white-winged dove (credit: H. Sederholm) 8 Downtown Austin Alliance Data Map of bird strike fatalities in January (credit: Downtown Austin Alliance) Map of bird strike fatalities in February (credit: Downtown Austin Alliance) Map of bird strike fatalities in March (credit: Downtown Austin Alliance) Map of bird strike fatalities in April (credit: Downtown Austin Alliance) Map of bird strike fatalities in May (credit: Downtown Austin Alliance) …
GREAT WAVE "D" AND "C" PLAN SET NOTES: 1. PROJECT GREAT WAVE "C" SITE PLAN APPROVAL PENDING PROJECT GREAT WAVE "D" SITE PLAN APPROVAL. 2. PROJECT GREAT WAVE "D" SITE PLAN MID SUBMITTED TO CITY OF AUSTIN ON MARCH 25, 2026 FOR EXPEDITED SITE PLAN PROCESS REVIEW. Z H E E H Z EHZ Z H E E L C Y C E R E S A E L P Water Easement Water Easement N 26°25'08" E 695.11' Water Easement Sidewalk Easement N 27°44'45" E 1,027.50' N 27°49'16" E 313.02' N 27°45'08" E 346.90' LEGEND EHZ Z H E Z H E N 6 7 ° 1 3 0 3 " W ' 2 , 3 8 4 . 5 0 ' E H Z E H Z E H Z E H Z E H Z 10' P.U.E REFERENCE CONTOURS PFLUGERVILLE WEST NE FROM COA GIS Z H E Z H E Z H E Z H E LINE TABLE Line Direction Length L1 L2 L3 L4 L5 L6 L7 L8 L9 L10 L11 L12 S79°29'18"E S79°04'08"E 2.00 9.50 N78°10'50"W 50.00 S79°04'08"E 10.50 N79°30'53"W 177.36 S19°23'41"E 88.70 S08°03'36"W 116.40 S80°31'21"E 145.34 S24°24'25"W 194.22 S18°04'35"W 423.82 S60°36'41"W 69.92 N84°15'30"W 96.63 CURVE TABLE Curve Radius Length Chord Direction Chord Length DELTA C1 2,845.50 660.74 S 03°36'02" E 659.26 13°18'16" C2 C3 C4 C5 C6 C7 C8 C9 7,180.50 720.48 S 05°57'02" W 720.18 5°44'56" 7,182.45 263.94 S 09°52'44" W 263.93 2°06'20" 7,192.00 111.58 S 11°22'32" W 111.58 0°53'20" 7,142.00 110.81 N 11°22'32" E 110.81 0°53'20" 7,152.45 263.72 N 09°52'31" E 263.71 2°06'45" 7,177.50 423.88 S 15°39'14" W 423.82 3°23'01" 1,467.41 102.78 N 82°04'29" W 102.76 4°00'47" 1,157.79 344.35 N 75°44'17" W 343.08 17°02'27" E H Z E H Z EHZ E H Z Z H E Z H E Z H E E H Z EHZ C 9 Z H E CEF F E C C E F EHZ CEF EHZ Z H E EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ L9 EHZ EHZ EHZ L10 EHZ Z Z H Q E W C CWQZ EHZ 15'30' DRAINAGE & P.U.E. WATER LINE EASEMENT EHZ QZ CW EHZ CWQZ 15' ELECTRIC EASEMENT 15' DRIANAGE AND LANDSCAPE EASEMENT EHZ EHZ L7 L 8 C7 7.5' P.U.E. 15' P.U.E. EHZ CWQZ EHZ L 1 2 C 8 EHZ EHZ L11 CWQZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ CWQZ CWQZ EHZ CWQZ CWQZ 3 2 9 . 5 5 ' …
E L C Y C E R E S A E L P A 822 820 818 816 814 812 810 PROPOSED TRUCK PARKING C HEAVY DUTY CONCRETE TRUCK DOCK EXISTING DOCK AREA 4 0 8 D 6 0 8 800 4 0 8 2 0 8 800 798 796 4 9 7 EHZ 792 PROPOSED EMERGENCY 20' WIDE FIRE LANE (LIGHT DUTY ASPHALT) 808 PROPOSED 24' WIDE HEAVY DUTY CONCRETE DRIVE 806 804 26' WIDE ARIEL APPARATUS FIRE LANE PROPOSED HEAVY DUTY CONCRETE DOCK AREA 802 800 798 E N I L T U O S R S A D E S O P O R P 796 34' 6" X 18' 1" x 23 58" DEEP PIT. TO BE COORD W EQUIPMENT. 34' 6" X 18' 1" x 23 58" DEEP PIT. TO BE COORD W EQUIPMENT. "BLDG 2" PROPOSED FACILITY FFE=813.60' BUILDING 2 SHOWN FOR REFERENCE ONLY. APPROVAL OF PERMANENT STRUCTURES, PAVING, AND APPURTENANCES ARE DEFERRED TO THE "C" PLAN. 34' 6" X 18' 1" x 23 58" DEEP PIT. TO BE COORD W EQUIPMENT. 34' 6" X 18' 1" x 23 58" DEEP PIT. TO BE COORD W EQUIPMENT. 34' 6" X 18' 1" x 23 58" DEEP PIT. TO BE COORD W EQUIPMENT. BLDG 2 MAIN ENTRANCE NO PARKING NO PARKING VAN NO PARKING VAN NO PARKING VAN NO PARKING VAN NO PARKING - DROP OFF ZONE 810 4 0 8 6 0 8 POND RAW WATER HEX P MEMBRANEFILTER MEMBRANEFILTER MEMBRANEFILTER H SO P 4 2 TANK BLOWER BLOWER BLOWER BLOWER MMF MMF MMF MMF I I I I R R E E F F S S A A G G E E D D P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P SOFT WATER TANK SOFT WATER TANK FILTERED W. FILTERED W. TANK TANK P P SOFTENER SOFTENER MMF TREATED MMF TREATED W. TANK W. TANK P P P P ACTIVATED ACTIVATED CARBON CARBON ACTIVATED ACTIVATED CARBON CARBON X X E E H H R R E E T T S S C C A A 26' WIDE ARIEL APPARATUS FIRE LANE 794 802 800 798 POND 796 794 790 POND EHZ 790 EHZ PROPOSED WALLS A 790 788 786 784 786 788 Z H E Z H E 784 Z H E 782 E H Z E H Z E H Z B 152 …
LANDSCAPE NOTES 1. MATERIALS AND METHODS OF CONSTRUCTION SHALL BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH CURRENT APPLICABLE CITY OF AUSTIN AND THE STATE OF TX STANDARDS AND SPECIFICATIONS. 2. CONTRACTOR IS RESPONSIBLE FOR INSPECTING THE SITE BEFORE LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION IN ORDER TO BECOME FAMILIAR WITH THE EXISTING CONDITIONS. 3. CONTRACTOR IS RESPONSIBLE FOR LOCATING UNDERGROUND UTILITIES, NEW AND PRIOR EXISTING, BEFORE BEGINNING LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION. DAMAGE TO UTILITIES SHALL BE REPAIRED AT THE CONTRACTOR'S EXPENSE. 4. THE LANDSCAPE PLAN IS FOR PLANTING PURPOSES ONLY. FOR INFORMATION REGARDING BUILDINGS, GRADING, WALLS, ETC., REFER TO ARCHITECTURE, SITE, GRADING DRAWINGS, ETC. 5. CONTRACTOR SHALL FULLY REVIEW PLANS PRIOR TO INSTALLATION AND SHALL NOTIFY OWNER'S REPRESENTATIVE AND LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT OF DISCREPANCIES BETWEEN THE NOTES, SPECIFICATIONS, DRAWINGS, OR SITE CONDITIONS FOR RESOLUTION PRIOR TO INSTALLATION. 6. VERIFICATION OF TOTAL PLANT QUANTITIES AS SHOWN IN THE PLANT SCHEDULE SHALL BE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE CONTRACTOR. DISCREPANCIES BETWEEN THE PLANT SCHEDULE AND LANDSCAPE PLAN SHALL BE BROUGHT TO THE ATTENTION OF THE LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT PRIOR TO SUBMITTING THE BID/PROPOSAL. 7. CONTRACTOR IS RESPONSIBLE FOR VERIFYING THAT PLANT MATERIAL IS AVAILABLE AS SPECIFIED WHEN BID/PROPOSAL IS SUBMITTED AND RESERVING / SECURING PLANT MATERIAL AS NECESSARY TO MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE LANDSCAPE PLAN. 31. PROPOSED TREES TO BE PLANTED A MINIMUM [20 FEET] FROM LIGHT POLES AS MEASURED FROM TRUNK OF THE TREE TO THE POLE. 32. PROPOSED TREES TO BE PLANTED A MINIMUM [10 FEET] FROM FIRE HYDRANTS AS MEASURED FROM TRUNK OF THE TREE TO THE HYDRANT. 33. CONTRACTOR SHALL LAY OUT ON THE GROUND SHRUBS, ORNAMENTAL GRASSES, AND GROUNDCOVERS FOR APPROVAL BY LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT PRIOR TO INSTALLATION. CONTRACTOR SHALL ANTICIPATE THAT SOME REARRANGEMENT OF MATERIAL WILL OCCUR. 34. SEE LANDSCAPE DETAILS FOR TREE STAKING REQUIREMENTS. 35. ALL TREE PLANTINGS SHALL BE MULCHED TO A DEPTH OF [3 INCHES] AND WITH A MINIMUM [3 FOOT] RADIUS FROM BASE OF TREE OR TO DRIPLINE. MULCH SHALL NOT COVER THE ROOT FLARE. 36. MULCH SHALL BE ORGANIC, FREE OF TRASH, AND MAINTAINED WEED FREE. MULCH SHALL BE APPLIED IMMEDIATELY AFTER COMPLETION OF PLANTING OPERATIONS. 37. EXCAVATE EDGES OF ALL PLANTING BEDS TO 2 INCH DEPTH TO FORM A NEAT AND CRISP DEFINITION. 38. CONTRACTOR TO SUPPLY AUTOMATIC IRRIGATION SYSTEM, COMPLETE AND INSTALLED. SYSTEM TO INCLUDE VALVES, PIPE, HEADS, FITTINGS, CONTROLLER, AND BACKFLOW PREVENTOR, AND PROVIDE 100% COVERAGE OF SOD, SEED, AND PLANTING BEDS. SEE IRRIGATION DRAWINGS. 39. PLANT MATERIALS …
L1.12 L1.10 L1.11 L1.01 L1.02 L1.03 L1.06 L1.05 L1.04 L1.07 L1.08 L1.09 CONTEXT MAP SCALE: 1"= 500' LEGEND xxxxx REGULATED /PROTECTED TREE TO REMAIN xxxxx REGULATED /PROTECTED TREE TO BE REMOVED xxxxx TREE TO REMAIN BUT DOES NOT MEET PRESERVATION REQUIREMENTS TREE PROTECTION FENCE REF. DETAIL 01/L1.00 NOTES 1. THERE ARE NO HERITAGE TREES WITH IMPROVEMENT AREA 2. ALL ACTIVITIES WITHIN THE CRITICAL ENVIRONMENTAL FEATURES (CEFS) AND ASSOCIATED SETBACKS MUST COMPLY WITH THE CITY OF AUSTIN LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE. THE NATURAL VEGETATIVE COVER MUST BE RETAINED TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PRACTICABLE, CONSTRUCTION IS PROHIBITED EXCEPT AS IDENTIFIED IN THIS SITE PLAN; AND WASTEWATER DISPOSAL OF ANY FORM IS PROHIBITED." REFERENCE: LDC 25-8-281(C)(2)(A) OR 30-5-121(C)(2)(A) MATCHLINE L1.06 MATCHLINE L1.05 TREE PROTECTION FENCING, TYP. GRAPHIC SCALE 30 15 0 60 1 inch = 30 ft. LIMIT OF CONSTRUCTION DIRT TRAIL TO BE DEMOLISHED REGULTED TREE TO REMAIN CEF 794 CEF CEF CEF CEF CEF CEF CEF CEF 792 CEF CEF CEF CEF CEF 796 CEF CEF M A T C H L I N E L 1 0 8 . M A T C H L I N E L 1 0 9 . M A T C H L I N E L 1 0 7 . M A T C H L I N E L 1 0 8 . CEF CEF CEF CEF CEF CEF CEF CEF EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ 790 EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ REGULATED TREE TO REMAIN EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ REGULTED TREE TO REMAIN EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ CEF CEF EHZ EF C EHZ F E C EHZ F E C EHZ EHZ F E C F E C F E C F E C F E C F E C F E C F E C F E C F E C EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ The John R. McAdams Company, Inc. 4400 State Highway 121, Suite 800 Lewisville, Texas 75056 phone 972. 436. 9712 fax 972. 436. 9715 TBPE: F-19762 TBPELS: F-10194440 TBAE: BR3185 www.mcadamsco.com GRAY AES, PSC 10 Quality Street Lexington, Kentucky 40507-1450 Telephone: (859) 474-8666 10 Quality Street Lexington, Kentucky 40507-1450 Telephone: (859) 281-5000 Food & Beverage …
E H Z Drainage Easement Electric Easement E H Z E H Z E H Z Z H E Z H E Z H E Z H E EHZ Water Easement Z H E EHZ EHZ Water Easement Water Easement Sidewalk Easement Wastewater Easement 15' Gas Easement Water Easement LX.12 M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M LX.10 M M M M LX.11 M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M LX.01 LX.02 LX.03 LX.06 EHZ LX.05 E H Z E H Z E H Z E H Z LX.04 CEF EHZ EHZ CEF EHZ CEF CEF CEF EHZ CEF EHZ CEF EHZ EHZ LX.07 E H Z EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ CEF LX.08 CEF EHZ F E C EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ LX.09 EHZ CWQZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ (1,928 sf) HENP 2 EHZ CWQZ CEF CEF CEF CEF Z H E Z H E Z H E Z H E Z H E F E C F E C EHZ CEF EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ CEF CEF CEF CEF C E F C E F EHZ EHZ EHZ E H Z EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ EHZ F E C EHZ EHZ EHZ 10' P.U.E EHZ Z H E Z H E Z H E Z H E Z H E Z H E Z H E Z H E Z H E Z H E E H Z E H Z E H Z E H Z E H Z E H Z E H Z E H Z E H Z Z H E Z H E Z H E Z …
MATCHLINE L5.12 MATCHLINE L5.11 LIMIT OF CONSTRUCTION M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M . 0 1 5 L E N I L H C T A M . 1 1 5 L E N I L H C T A M M M M M M M M M M M SHADE TREE FOR MITIGATION, TYP. M M M M M M M M M M M LIMIT OF CONSTRUCTION M M M M M REFER TO C SET FOR ADDITIONAL LANDSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS AND FINAL TREE LOCATION. M M M M M M M M 820 M 818 M M 816 M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M 834 M M M 832 M M M M M M M M 830 M M M M 828 M M M M M M M M M 836 M M M 838 M M M M M M M EXISTING TREE TO REMAIN. TYP. M M M M M M 822 M M M M M M 826 M M M M M M M M 824 M M M M M M M M M M M M SHADE TREE FOR MITIGATION, TYP. M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M 842 840 M M M M M M GRAPHIC SCALE 30 15 0 60 1 inch = 30 ft. Water Easement Water Easement Water Easement Sidewalk Easement Water Easement L5.12 L5.10 L5.11 L5.01 L5.02 L5.03 L5.06 L5.05 L5.04 L5.07 L5.08 L5.09 CWQZ (1,928 sf) HENP 2 CWQZ M M M M M CONTEXT MAP SCALE: 1"= 500' PLANT SCHEDULE SHRUB AREAS SYMBOL CODE BOTANICAL / COMMON NAME HENP 1 HERBACEOUS NATIVE PLANTING 1 - MOISTURE TOLERANT M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M HENP 2 HERBACEOUS NATIVE PLANTING 2 - UPLAND SHADE HENP 3 HERBACEOUS NATIVE PLANTING 3 - UPLAND SUN GROUND COVERS CYDS CYNODON DACTYLON 'TIFTUF' BERMUDA 'TIFTUF' MITIGATION TREE M TREES EX.TR. xxxxx EXISTING TREES EXISTING TREES ORNAMENTAL TREE …
July 20, 2026 Liz Johnston, Environmental Officer Austin Watershed Protection 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, TX 78752 Via Electronic Delivery Re: 3900 W. Howard Lane – Environmental Variance Request for the 170.178-acre property located at 3900 W. Howard Lane, Austin, TX 78728, comprised of TCAD ID 0267110101 (the "Property") Dear Ms. Johnson: The following request is on behalf of Otsuka ICU Medical LLC ("Owner") for approval of an environmental variance in connection with the proposed Great Wave development (“D” permit (2025170-D)) at 3900 W. Howard Lane, Austin, TX 78728 ("Project"). The Project proposes a new manufacturing facility for ICU Medical which will be permitted under the “C” permit (2025170-C). A variance of the following code sections is requested under the “D” permit: • • Land Development Code ("LDC") §25-8-341 (Cut Requirements): o Allow cut greater than 4’, up to 20’ of cut. Land Development Code ("LDC") §25-8-342 (Fill Requirements): o Allow fill greater than 4’, up to 20’ of fill. An existing medical facility building occupies the southern portion of the site. The proposed structure, located on the northern portion of the property, is constrained by the existing development and its established grades. Additionally, the natural topography of the site has significant variation, with the highest elevation located at the northwest corner. To accommodate the intended use of the structure, a single finished floor elevation with level docking and loading areas is required. The large, level footprint of the building results in cut at the northern end of the structure and fill at the southern end of the structure, both exceeding code requirements for a finished floor elevation of 813.60 NAVD88. While the proposed grading will transition to the existing grades at the limits of construction, the existing medical facility has a finished floor of 806.40 +/- NAVD88. The difference in finished floor elevations is due to the natural topography of the site and the presence of shallow bedrock at the northern portion of the site. To limit the disturbance of the site, the following mitigation measures are proposed: retaining walls along the McNeil Merriltown Road frontage, 2.79 acres of native restoration planting and 676 proposed trees. All required tree mitigation is met, and the landscaping exceeds code requirements (total stabilized, vegetated area of approximately 13.58 acres). Please see included plan sheets for additional detailed information. 2705 Bee Caves Road Suite 100 | Austin, Texas 78746 | 512-807-2900 | www.drennergroup.com …
ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA COMMISSION MEETING DATE: August 5, 2026 NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: Great Wave - D Permit NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: SP-2026-0221D John Dailey, Gray AES, PSC LOCATION: 3900 West Howard Lane, Austin, Texas, 78728 COUNCIL DISTRICT: 7 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW STAFF: Brad Jackson, Environmental Compliance Specialist Senior Austin Development Services, 512-974-2128, Brad.Jackson@austintexas.gov WATERSHED: REQUEST: Walnut Creek Watershed, Suburban Classification, Desired Development Zone Variance requests are as follows: Request to vary from LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut up to 20 feet. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill up to 20 feet. Page 2 of 2 STAFF RECOMMENDATION: STAFF CONDITION: recommends Staff determined the findings of fact to have been met. these variances with conditions, having 1. Tree mitigation requirements will be fully met by planting trees on site instead of paying into the Urban Forest Replenishment Fund. 2. 2.79 acres of riparian area will be enhanced with native, herbaceous plantings as shown in the landscape plan. 3. Livestock and any other agricultural uses will no longer be permitted in the detention pond area of the site. 4. Grading with the proposed consolidated site plan associated with this project will not exceed the cut and fill limits shown on the exhibits provided with this variance request beyond necessary, incidental changes approved by City staff.
Great Wave 3900 West Howard Lane SP-2026-0221D Mike McDougal Environmental Policy Program Manager Austin Development Services | 08/05/2026 Property Data • Located within the City of Austin Zoning Jurisdiction (Zoned LI-PDA) • Walnut Creek Watershed, classified as Suburban; Desired Development Zone • Located over the Northern Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone • 170.18 acre site with 36 acres of Critical Water Quality Zone along the eastern boundary of site adjacent to Mopac ROW. • Critical Environmental Features – Wetlands within tributary along eastern boundary of site (approximately 6 acres in total size) • Council District 7 2 Location Site Site Location Austin ETJ Austin City Limits Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone Edwards Aquifer Contributing Zone 3 Location 4 Existing Conditions Existing Impervious Cover: 33.85 acres (20% of Gross Site Area) 5 Critical Water Quality Zone (CWQZ) 6 Existing Topography 7 Site photos 8 Site Constraints • The site has a grade change from 790 feet to 830 feet elevation over a distance of approximately 1,600 linear feet across the limits of construction. • Cut and fill over 4 feet are required to provide a level finished floor elevation for the approximately 425,000 square foot building and associated drive aisles and loading zones. 9 Proposed Site Plan Limits of Construction: • 39 acres New Building Coverage: • 425,000 square feet Total Impervious Cover: • 34% Gross Site Area 10 Variance Request The applicant has requested variances to: 1. LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut up to 20 feet; and 2. LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill up to 20 feet. 11 Cut/Fill Exhibit – Mass Grading (“D” site plan) 12 Cut Exhibit – Final Buildout (“C” site plan) 13 Variance Recommendation Staff recommends the variances, with conditions, having determined that the findings of fact per LDC 25-8-41 have been met. 14 Variance Conditions Staff recommends the following variance conditions: 1. Tree mitigation requirements will be fully met by planting trees on site instead of paying into the Urban Forest Replenishment Fund 2. 2.79 acres of riparian area will be enhanced with native, herbaceous plantings 3. Livestock and any other agricultural uses will no longer be permitted in the detention pond areas of the site 4. Grading with the proposed consolidated site plan associated with this project will not exceed the cut and fill limits shown on the exhibits provided with this variance request beyond necessary, incidental changes approved by City staff. 15 Thank you Next …
Development Services Department Staff Recommendations Concerning Required Findings Project Name: Great Wave, SP-2026-0221D Ordinance Standard: Current code Variance Request: Request to vary from Land Development Code 25-8-341 to allow cut up to 20 feet. 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 other 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. Other owners with similarly situated property with approximately contemporaneous development have received variances for cut and fill in order to construct very large industrial buildings for warehouse and manufacturing uses. 2. The variance: a. is not necessitated by the scale, layout, construction method, or other design decision made by the applicant, unless the design decision provides greater overall environmental protection than is achievable without the variance. Yes. The requested cut variance is necessary due to the operational requirements of the manufacturing facility proposed at the site, which will require a level floor for the various stages of a complex assembly line for advanced manufacturing. The scale of the project is in line with the supply demands for medical IV bag production and the building is sited on the portion of the site easily accessible to existing drive aisles and on slopes less than 15% in grade. In addition, the applicant will provide full tree mitigation on site and riparian zone restoration as conditions of the variance approvals. b. is the minimum deviation from the code requirement necessary to allow a reasonable use of the property; and Yes. The cut proposed will be evenly split between each side of the building, allowing a balance of cut and fill across the site. The approximately 425,000 square foot building will extend 960 feet end to end across the site, which encompasses a large grade change of around 40 feet of elevation rise over that distance. c. Does not create a significant probability of harmful environmental consequences; and Yes. The proposed site plan will have robust erosion controls during construction to prevent erosion by utilizing large, rough-cut sedimentation basins to collect runoff and prevent sediment laden water from entering the adjacent tributary on the site. 3. Development with the variance will result in water quality that is at least equal to the water quality achievable without the …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, JULY 15, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1405 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Environmental Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Nicole Corona, 737-291-3084, Nicole.Corona@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Mariana Krueger, Chair Jennifer Bristol, Vice Chair Haris Qureshi, Secretary Richard Brimer Isabella Changsut Annie Fierro AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Justin Fleury Martin Luecke Allison Morrison David Sullivan The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on July 1, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the history of Austin Watershed Protection ordinances. Presentation by Matt Hollon, Regulatory Policy Analyst, Austin Watershed Protection. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. Discussion of Environmental Commission Bylaws. Discussion of Robert’s Rules of Order, the Texas Open Meetings Act, and general commission procedures. Presentation by Commissioner Sullivan. Discussion of public comment process. Discussion of the 2025-2026 goals and objectives of the Environmental Commission. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS City Code requires at least two board members sponsor an item to be included on an agenda. This section of the agenda provides members an opportunity to request items for future agendas. Staff should assume that if there is no objection from other members expressed at the meeting, the members’ silence indicates approval for staff to include on the next agenda. ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Nicole Corona at Austin Watershed Protection, at 737-291-3084, Nicole.Corona@austintexas.gov to request service or for additional information. For more information …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MINUTES REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, JULY 1, 2026 The Environmental Commission convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, located at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Krueger called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Mariana Krueger, Chair Jennifer Bristol, Vice Chair Haris Qureshi, Secretary Justin Fleury Martin Luecke David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Richard Brimer Annie Fierro PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on June 17, 2026. The minutes from the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on June 17, 2026, were approved on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Luecke’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Brimer and Fierro were off the dais. Commissioners Changsut and Morrison were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding Austin Watershed Protection's Reservoir Update for Fiscal Year 2025- 2026. Presentation by Brent Bellinger, Conservation Program Supervisor, Austin Watershed Protection. The presentation was made by Brent Bellinger, Conservation Program Supervisor, Austin Watershed Protection. 1 3. Staff briefing regarding Austin Resource Recovery's On-Demand Brush, Bulk, and Household Hazardous Waste Program. Presentation by Ron Romero, Assistant Director, Samuel Gilbert, Litter Abatement Division Manager, and Andy Dawson, Diversion Facilities Assistant Division Manager, Austin Resource Recovery. The presentation was made by Ron Romero, Assistant Director, Samuel Gilbert, Litter Abatement Division Manager, and Andy Dawson, Diversion Facilities Assistant Division Manager, Austin Resource Recovery. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. 5. Discussion and action to recommend approval of the Austin Water Capital Improvement Projects located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone for inclusion in the five-year Capital spending plan as required by Financial Policy #8. The motion to approve the Austin Water Capital Improvement Projects located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone for inclusion in the five-year Capital spending plan as required by Financial Policy #8, and request that the 2027 report reflect any water leak detection or abatement in the drinking water zone, was approved on Secretary Qureshi’s motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Changsut and Morrison were absent. Approve a recommendation to Council from the Dog’s Head Working Group regarding the environmental aspects and future potential City Council action, including a vote on the creation of a Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ), for the Dog’s Head area, located between the Colorado River, US Highway 183, and State …
The History of Austin’s Watershed Protection Ordinances Austin Watershed Protection | 07/15/2026 Presentation Outline Major, historic Austin moments The impact of geography, weather, demography, and politics Key watershed protection regulations Austin’s major watershed ordinances Concluding thoughts 4 4 Geography: Edwards Plateau Barton Creek looking toward downtown 5 Geography: Blackland Prairie Gilleland Creek at SH 130 Crossing 6 Lake Travis Lake Austin Lady Bird Lake Colorado River Welcome to AUSTIN 7 Rapid Population Growth 11th largest city in the U.S. 22% population change 2010-18 2nd highest rate in top 50 U.S. cities But recently slowing in Austin Current estimated population (2025) 1.03 million in full-purpose limits 2.62 million in the 5-county MSA Development required to keep pace MSA = Metropolitan Statistical Area Austin Population 1940-2025 + Projection to 2050 1,400,000 1,200,000 1,000,000 800,000 600,000 400,000 200,000 n o i t a l u p o P Projected Past 0 1920 1940 1960 1980 2000 2020 2040 2060 Year Source: https://demographics-austin.hub.arcgis.com/... 8 Citizen Involvement Highly aware & educated community Politically & socially active community 9 State Involvement Highly aware & educated community Politically & socially active community 10 Flash Flood Alley The Central Texas Hill Country is the most flash-flood-prone area in North America “Texas is a land of perennial drought, broken by the occasional devastating flood.” Unnamed National Weather Service meteorologist, 1927 Pontoon Bridge, 1869 Destroyed by flood < 1 year after built 12 Original Austin Dam Completed 1891 13 Original Austin Dam Destroyed 1900 14 2nd Dam begun, 1912… Damaged in construction by two large floods… never completely built 15 1935 Flood 16 1935 Flood 17 Construction of the Highland Lakes 18 Lake Travis at Mansfield Dam, built 1942 LCRA photo 19 Tom Miller Dam, built 1940 LCRA photo 20 1981 Memorial Day Flood 21 Barton Creek Square Mall Barton Springs: ~ 2 miles downstream 22 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQNrdLTvlFc 23 Eastern Headwaters Creeks 24 2013 Onion Creek Flood 25 Key Watershed Protection Regulations (from ordinances) Watershed classification (impervious cover and more) Impervious cover limits Floodplain restrictions/prohibitions Stream setbacks/buffers Erosion hazard zone (EHZ) requirements No adverse impact flood detention ponds Water quality controls (“ponds”) 26 26 Key Watershed Protection Regulations (from ordinances, continued) Erosion & sedimentation controls Critical Environmental Feature (CEF) setbacks/buffers Steep slope protections Cut & fill …
Robert’s Rules of Order for CoA Meetings Dave Sullivan Former Planning Commission Parliamentarian & Chair Current member of Housing Investment Review Committee, Environmental Commission, ATP Advisory Committee Environmental Comm. July 15, 2026 1 Robert’s Rules…. from Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert%27s_Rules_of_Order • A U.S. Army officer, Henry Martyn Robert (1837–1923), saw a need for a standard of parliamentary procedure while living in San Francisco. He found San Francisco in the mid-to-late 19th century to be a chaotic place where meetings of any kind tended to be tumultuous, with little consistency of procedure and with people of many nationalities and traditions thrown together. • The first edition of the book, whose full title was Pocket Manual of Rules of Order for Deliberative Assemblies, was published in February 1876 by the then-Major Robert, with the short title Robert's Rules of Order placed on its cover. Environmental Comm. July 15, 2026 2 Lots of resources • https://robertsrulesmadesimple.com/ • Robert's Rules in Plain English, 2nd edition, Doris Zimmerman, HarperCollins Publishers, 2009 Environmental Comm. July 15, 2026 3 Main Principles: • Only one motion can be discussed at a time. • Everyone has the right to participate in discussion before anyone may speak a second time. • Everyone has the right to know what is going on at all times. • Only urgent matters may interrupt a speaker. Environmental Comm. July 15, 2026 4 Following presentation of an agenda item, and citizens speakers • Chair calls for a motion. • Generally, the chair facilitates the discussion, but she can also make or second a motion. • A motion, once made, must be seconded before discussion/debate begins. The maker and seconder get to explain why they put forward the motion. • Following the motion/second, the chair facilitates an orderly discussion or debate. Board rules may limit the time a member can speak. • One must wait until after everyone else has spoken before speaking a second time, unless it is to answer a question posed by another speaker. Environmental Comm. July 15, 2026 5 Types of motions… • Main motion (or base motion) on an agenda item. Req’s 2nd. • Amendment to main motion. Req’s 2nd. • Limit debate/Call for a vote. Req’s 2nd. Requires 2/3 vote… (8 yeas out of 11 members). • Postpone. Req’s 2nd. • Recess, Adjourn, Req’s 2nd. • Table a motion. Req’s 2nd. • Remove from the table (take up the issue). Req’s 2nd. …
Texas Open Meetings Act Dave Sullivan Former Planning Commission Parliamentarian & Chair Current member of Housing Investment Review Committee, Environmental Commission, ATP Advisory Committee Environmental Comm. July 15, 2026 1 Resources • TOMA online handbook: • https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/sit es/default/files/files/divisions/open- government/openmeetings_hb.pdf • CoA meeting rules: • https://library.municode.com/tx/austin/c odes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT2A D_CH2-1CIBO Environmental Comm. July 15, 2026 2 The TOM Act • Adopted in 1967 as article 6252-17 of the Revised Civil Statutes, • Substantially revised in 1973 • Codified without substantive change in 1993 as Government Code chapter 551.5 • The Act has been amended many times since its enactment, e.g., with development of the Internet, and most recently to allow some remote attendance at meetings during the COVID period. Environmental Comm. July 15, 2026 3 Details • Quorum requirement. • Majority vote. • Meeting in public, some executive sessions allowed. • Meeting must be pre-noticed. • Err on the side or open government. • May use Robert’s Rules of Order to conduct meetings. • May not conduct meetings with procedures inconsistent with TOMA. Environmental Comm. July 15, 2026 4 Quorum & Voting • “Absent an express provision to the contrary, a proposition is carried in a deliberative body by a majority of the legal votes cast, a quorum being present. Thus, if a body is “composed of twelve members, a quorum of seven could act, and a majority of that quorum, four, could bind the body.” But….. • For CoA Boards & Commissions, a quorum must be present to hold a meeting, and a majority of “seats” must support any resolution to pass. So, if a CoA panel has 11 seats, and only 6 members are present (or online) for a meeting, a quorum is met, but only unanimous resolutions pass. (CITY CODE: CHAPTER 2-1. - CITY BOARDS) Environmental Comm. July 15, 2026 5 Posting requirements • Notice must be posted for a minimum length of time before each meeting. Section 551.043(a) states: “The notice of a meeting of a governmental body must be posted in a place readily accessible to the general public at all times for at least three business days before the scheduled date of the meeting.” • Posting must be on the Website and in a hard-copy public space. • Posting must give the public a good idea of what will be discussed. I.e., Agenda listings such as “City Manager Report” alone, without listing topics to be discussed, is …
Environmental Commission Workflow Land Use Variance Planned Unit Development Service Extension Request Environmental Commission Recommendation Environmental Commission Recommendation Environmental Commission Recommendation Project not within a neighborhood plan Project within a neighborhood plan Planning Commission Water and Wastewater Commission Zoning and Platting Commission Final hearing; determines final conditions and whether or not the variance is approved Planning Commission Final hearing; determines final conditions and whether or not the variance is approved Hears the case and votes for or against the development Hears the case and votes for or against the request Austin City Council Austin City Council Considers commissions’ recommendations and makes the final decision Considers commissions’ recommedations and makes the final decision Final Decision Final Decision Final Decision Final Decision Environmental Commission Workflow Code Changes, including code changes to 25-7 Drainage, 25-8 Supchapter A Water Quality, and Site-Specific Amendments to Save Our Springs (SOS) Initiation for Code Change Environmental Commission May make a recommendation for Planning Commission to initiate a code change Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee May make a recommendation for Planning Commission to initiate a code change Planning Commission May initiate a code change Austin City Council May initiate a code change Code change is initiated Environmental Commission Workflow Code Changes, including code changes to 25-7 Drainage, 25-8 Supchapter A Water Quality, and Site-Specific Amendments to Save Our Springs (SOS) Ordinance Adoption for Code Change Environmental Commission May make a recommendation to adopt a code change Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee May make a recommendation to adopt a code change Planning Commission Hears the case and makes a recommendation to Austin City Council Austin City Council Considers commissions’ recommendations and makes the final decision *SOS amendments need a super majority vote Ordinance is adopted
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, JULY 1, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1405 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Environmental Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Nicole Corona, 737-291-3084, Nicole.Corona@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Mariana Krueger, Chair Jennifer Bristol, Vice Chair Haris Qureshi, Secretary Richard Brimer Isabella Changsut Annie Fierro AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Justin Fleury Martin Luecke Allison Morrison David Sullivan The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on June 17, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding Austin Watershed Protection's Reservoir Update for Fiscal Year 2025- 2026. Presentation by Brent Bellinger, Conservation Program Supervisor, Austin Watershed Protection. 3. Staff briefing regarding Austin Resource Recovery's On-Demand Brush, Bulk, and Household Hazardous Waste Program. Presentation by Ron Romero, Assistant Director, Samuel Gilbert, Litter Abatement Division Manager, and Andy Dawson, Diversion Facilities Assistant Division Manager, Austin Resource Recovery. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. 5. Discussion and action to recommend approval of the Austin Water Capital Improvement Projects located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone for inclusion in the five-year Capital spending plan as required by Financial Policy #8. Approve a recommendation to Council from the Dog’s Head Working Group regarding the environmental aspects and future potential City Council action, including a vote on the creation of a Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ), for the Dog’s Head area, located between the Colorado River, US Highway 183, and State Highway 130. Sponsored by Chair Krueger and Vice Chair Bristol. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS City Code requires at least two board members sponsor an item to be included on an agenda. This section of the agenda provides members an opportunity to request items for future agendas. Staff should assume that if there is no objection from other members expressed …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MINUTES REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026 The Environmental Commission convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, located at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Krueger called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Mariana Krueger, Chair Jennifer Bristol, Vice Chair Annie Fierro Martin Luecke David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Richard Brimer Isabella Changsut PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on June 3, 2026. The minutes from the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on June 3, 2026, were approved on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Vice Chair Bristol’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Secretary Qureshi and Commissioners Fleury and Morrison were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the Spill Response Program. Presentation by Ana Gonzalez, Environmental Monitoring and Compliance Division Manager, and Biz Yarbrough, Environmental Compliance Specialist Senior, Austin Watershed Protection. The presentation was made by Biz Yarbrough, Environmental Compliance Specialist Senior, Austin Watershed Protection. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1 3. Discussion of the environmental and drainage requirements in the Development Agreement for Dog's Head, located between the Colorado River, US Highway 183, and State Highway 130. Presentation by Andy Pastor, Endeavor Real Estate Group, and Richard Suttle, Armbrust and Brown PLLC. Sponsored by Chair Krueger, Vice Chair Bristol, Secretary Qureshi, and Commissioner Brimer. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve the creation of a working group to organize and engage community stakeholders; advise the applicant, City of Austin, and City Council on the regulatory plan; and to make recommendations regarding the regulating plan of the Dog's Head development agreement. Sponsored by Vice Chair Bristol and Commissioner Brimer. The motion to approve the formation of the Dog’s Head Working Group to organize and engage community stakeholders; advise the applicant, City of Austin, and City Council on the regulatory plan; and to make recommendations regarding the regulating plan of the Dog's Head development agreement was approved on Vice Chair Bristol’s motion, Commissioner Luecke’s second, on a 7-0 vote. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS None. ADJOURNMENT Chair Krueger adjourned the meeting at 9:59 p.m. without objection. 2
Reservoir Update FY 2026 Reservoir Update FY 2026 Brent Bellinger, Ph.D. Conservation Program Supervisor Austin Watershed Protection July 1, 2026 Overview Austin Lakes Index Aquatic vegetation Harmful algal proliferations Turbid water in Lake Austin this winter 2 Austin Lakes Index • Purpose – understand conditions and drivers impacting Lake Austin, Lady Bird Lake, and Lake Walter E Long • Policy Relation – inform management recommendations to protect and/or improve the health of our lakes • Goal – maintain scores as high as possible reflecting “healthy” ecological integrity 3 Austin Lakes Index – Scores Scores fair-to-good • Water and sediment chemistry, biological communities, habitat • Drivers: land-use, pollutant inputs, climate, flow Good Fair Marginal Abundance of vegetation • Positive for water quality, aquatic invertebrates • Non-native species or excess cover negatively impacts scores 4 Aquatic Vegetation – Lake Austin Hydrilla continued to be abundant through winter Upper reservoir: some die-back Lower reservoir: similar extent TPWD recently completed survey Feb 27, 2026 5 Aquatic Vegetation – History hydrilla total vegetation grass carp population 25 years of data indicate that: • Climate (drought/flood) is a driver of hydrilla growth • Grass carp system-wide control measure ) s e r c a ( n o i t a t e g e V c i t a u q A 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Year 35000 30000 25000 20000 15000 10000 5000 0 G r a s s C a r p ( # ) 6 Aquatic Vegetation – Grass Carp Implementing in a measured way to avoid catastrophic crash in lake ecology FY2026 Grass carp stocking Nov 2025 – added 1,955 May 2026 – added 2,790 May ‘26 Carp Stocking Current population as of July 1 is estimated to be: 4,467 8 fish/acre (based on February 2026 veg survey) 7 Aquatic Vegetation – Lake Austin drawdown Pros Ease of access for shoreline maintenance temporary reduction of exposed Eurasian watermilfoil, hydrilla Cons May increase hydrilla long-term Impacts to water storage & energy Impacts to recreation and businesses Guidance AW, AE, LCRA collaborating on logistics 8 Aquatic Vegetation – Management Developing a long-term guidance document Focus on …
On-Demand Services: Brush, Bulk and Household Hazardous Waste Samuel Gilbert, Division Manager- Litter Abatement Andy Dawson, Assistant Division Manager- HHW-RRDOC Austin Resource Recovery July 1, 2026 Brush, Bulk and HHW then and now: In January 2025 Austin Resource Recovery began city wide collection of Brush, Bulk and Household Hazardous Waste material through an appointment-based service model. This allows for: Three (3) collections per year per service Customers scheduling at their convenience Collections completed off service day to increase the curb access Previous Model Customer notifications sent by mail for upcoming brush and bulk collections Brush and Bulk collection twice annually. Collections generally six months apart Limited diversion of revenue generating bulk recyclables Appointments for HHW drop-off only with no curbside collections. 2 Brush and Bulk On-Demand Appointments CY25 Brush and Bulk On Demand Monthly Appointments • Brush - 14,146 calendar year appointments • Bulk - 52,442 calendar year appointments 3 CY25 Brush and Bulk On-Demand Tonnage Appointment based servicing has caused a decrease in the tonnage collected for both Brush and Bulk landfilled. The tons of recyclables diverted has increased. 4 Operational Costs, Revenue, Diversion, Mileage Category Metric Brush CY25 Operational Costs, Revenue, and Diversion CY24 $121,668 $107,844 $92,671 $134,405 $283,105 $205,656 $152,854 $183,254 $258,199 $172,080 $21,485 334 Overtime Fuel Costs Overtime Fuel Costs Disposal Costs Revenue Tons Diverted $140 198 Difference ($13,824) ($41,734) ($77,449) $30,400 ($86,119) $21,345 136 Bulk Bulk Fuel savings in Brush With on-demand, ARR has experienced changes by program: • Overtime savings in Brush and Bulk • • Reduced landfill cost in Bulk Increased fuel costs in Bulk • Increased revenue from diversion efforts • Brush collection experienced a significant decrease in miles driven, bulk collection showed an increase in total miles. Of the increase in bulk mileage, 22% is related to diversion related materials. Calendar Year Mileage Comparison Category Brush Bulk CY24 CY25 Difference 140,844 160,176 97,110 192,033 (43,734) 31,857 5 HHW On-Demand Program Performance The launch of the On-Demand program has helped to increase participation in HHW disposal services with almost 2,000 more residents requesting service in calendar year 2025 over the previous 12 months. HHW Program Participation CY2024 vs CY2025 40,000 36,000 32,000 28,000 24,000 34,050 35,921 CY 2024 CY 2025 Total Year Participation HHW Calendar Year 2025 Data HHW Drop-off HHW On-Demand Participation Total Disposal Cost Total Collected (lbs) Disposal Cost/lb Personnel Cost Waste/HH (lbs) …
To: From: Date: Subject: MEMORANDUM Environmental Commission, Resource Management Commission, and Water and Wastewater Commission Shay Ralls Roalson, P.E., Austin Water Director May 28, 2026 Board and Commission Review of Capital Improvement Projects in the Drinking Water Protection Zone The purpose of this memorandum is to provide a report of Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) located within the City’s Drinking Water Protection Zone (DWPZ), in accordance with Austin Water’s Financial Policy No. 8. The DWPZ designation and the associated financial policy, adopted by City Council, are included in the Appendix and outline the requirements for identifying, reviewing, and obtaining Board and Commission input on capital projects within western Austin and Travis County. The DWPZ is subject to development regulations to protect water quality and contains critical water resources that support both the environment and the community. Together, these policies establish the process through which capital projects in the DWPZ are submitted as part of the annual budget process as part of Austin Water’s comprehensive five-year capital improvement plan. The Fiscal Year 27–31 CIP includes projects located throughout the Austin metropolitan area, including the DWPZ. These projects are essential improvements to maintain and enhance Austin Water’s services and operational standards. Austin Water has a robust and comprehensive asset management and capital planning program, in which condition, capacity, and level of service are reviewed annually to validate these investments in resiliency, preparedness, and proactive infrastructure management. The CIP projects in the DWPZ are shown in the attached CIP Subproject Supplemental Information Summary and Map. Should you have any questions, please contact Randi Jenkins, Deputy Director of Technical Services of Austin Water at randi.jenkins@austintexas.gov or 512-972-0133. Page 1 of 6 Date: Subject: May 28, 2026 Board and Commission Review of Capital Improvement Projects in the Drinking Water Protection Zone Index of Attachments Attachment 1: Table outlining the CIP subprojects located within the Drinking Water Protection Zone, including their descriptions, current status, and associated five-year and total spending plans. Attachment 2: DWPZ Map displaying the geographic location of all active CIP subprojects within the Drinking Water Protection Zone. Attachment 3: Appendix provides supporting definitions. Page 2 of 6 Date: Subject: May 28, 2026 Board and Commission Review of Capital Improvement Projects in the Drinking Water Protection Zone ATTACHMENT 1: PROJECT SUMMARY Page 3 of 6 Subproject IDSubproject NameSubproject DescriptionProject StatusFY27-31 Spending PlanTotal Spending Plan2015.118Davis WTP Medium Service Pump Station ExpansionThis project is for the expansion …
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Environmental Commission Recommendation 20260701-005: Dog’s Head Development WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission was informed about the Dog’s Head project by Endeavor Real Estate Group, city staff, and more than 35 concerned citizens at the June 17, 2026, meeting; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission formed a working group to advise and make recommendations regarding the environmental aspects of the project; and WHEREAS, the working group, comprised of commissioners and citizens, met on June 22, 24, and 29; and WHEREAS, the working group was informed that the City of Austin has not conducted an Environmental Assessment Study or an Environmental Resource Inventory, or Tree Survey, or worked with the state to assess the existing pollutants on the property; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin is recommending expanding access to the Dog’s Head by at least 3 bridges across the Colorado River as part of the infrastructure package, yet has not conducted an Environmental Assessment or Impact Study; and WHEREAS, the working group disagrees with the statements made by the developer that the ENTIRE property is “bombed out” or totally degraded to the point that it 100% has to be restored; however, we do agree major restoration is necessary and should be guided by the City’s policies and practices; and WHEREAS, Travis County and the State Historical Commission, via the Hicks Report, recognized portions of this property to have existing historic structures from earlier farms and ranching efforts in the 1850s, and adjacent properties that are still in ranching production; and WHEREAS, the working group recognizes this project falls in the blackland prairie ecoregion, and that the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department states that less than 1% of this region is left in Texas; and WHEREAS, the working group acknowledges the project is habitat for hundreds of species of migratory and resident birds that bring in birders from around the world every year who contribute millions to the regional economy; and . WHEREAS, the working group understands the project encompasses the alluvial aquifers that store and filter water along the river to provide drinking water for Austin’s Colony, Manor, Travis County, downstream counties, livestock, and wildlife; and WHEREAS, on November 6, 2024, the Environmental Commission passed a Recommendation concerning the Colorado River Code Amendment, and subsequently the City Council passed Ordinance 20250327-084, amending section 27-7-32 of the Land Development Code as the “Colorado River Protections Ordinance”; and, WHEREAS, approximately 20% …
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Environmental Commission Recommendation 20260701-004: Austin Water Capital Improvement Projects located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone WHEREAS, Austin Water presented and updated the Environmental Commission on new and existing growth-related Capital Improvement Program (CIP) projects located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone; and WHEREAS, the Austin Water provides adequate drinking water and reliable systems for current and future customers; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission requests that the 2027 report should reflect any water leak detection or abatement in the drinking water zone. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Environmental Commission recommends approval of the request for inclusion of the CIP projects in Austin Water’s 5-year capital spending budget. Date of Approval: July 1, 2026 Motioned By: Secretary Qureshi Seconded By: Commissioner Sullivan Vote: For: 8-0 Chair Krueger, Vice Chair Bristol, Secretary Qureshi, Commissioners Brimer, Fierro, Fleury, Luecke, and Sullivan Against: None Abstain: None Off the dais: None Absent: Commissioners Changsut and Morrison Attest: _____________________________________________ Mariana Krueger, Chair
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Environmental Commission Recommendation 20260701-005: Dog’s Head Development WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission was informed about the Dog’s Head project by Endeavor Real Estate Group, city staff, and more than 35 concerned citizens at the June 17, 2026, meeting; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission formed a working group to advise and make recommendations regarding the environmental aspects of the project; and WHEREAS, the working group, comprised of commissioners and citizens, met on June 22, 24, and 29; and WHEREAS, the working group was informed that the City of Austin has not conducted an Environmental Assessment Study or an Environmental Resource Inventory, or Tree Survey, or worked with the state to assess the existing pollutants on the property; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin is recommending expanding access to the Dog’s Head by at least 3 bridges across the Colorado River as part of the infrastructure package, yet has not conducted an Environmental Assessment or Impact Study; and WHEREAS, the working group disagrees with the statements made by the developer that the ENTIRE property is “bombed out” or totally degraded to the point that it 100% has to be restored; however, we do agree major restoration is necessary and should be guided by the City’s policies and practices; and WHEREAS, Travis County and the State Historical Commission, via the Hicks Report, recognized portions of this property to have existing historic structures from earlier farms and ranching efforts in the 1850s, and adjacent properties that are still in ranching production; and WHEREAS, the working group recognizes this project falls in the blackland prairie ecoregion, and that the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department states that less than 1% of this region is left in Texas; and WHEREAS, the working group acknowledges the project is habitat for hundreds of species of migratory and resident birds that bring in birders from around the world every year who contribute millions to the regional economy; and . WHEREAS, the working group understands the project encompasses the alluvial aquifers that store and filter water along the river to provide drinking water for Austin’s Colony, Manor, Travis County, downstream counties, livestock, and wildlife; and WHEREAS, on November 6, 2024, the Environmental Commission passed a recommendation concerning the Colorado River Code Amendment, and subsequently the City Council passed Ordinance 20250327-084, amending section 27-7-32 of the Land Development Code as the “Colorado River Protections Ordinance”; and WHEREAS, approximately 20% …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MINUTES REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, JULY 1, 2026 The Environmental Commission convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, located at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Krueger called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Mariana Krueger, Chair Jennifer Bristol, Vice Chair Haris Qureshi, Secretary Justin Fleury Martin Luecke David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Richard Brimer Annie Fierro PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on June 17, 2026. The minutes from the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on June 17, 2026, were approved on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Luecke’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Brimer and Fierro were off the dais. Commissioners Changsut and Morrison were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding Austin Watershed Protection's Reservoir Update for Fiscal Year 2025- 2026. Presentation by Brent Bellinger, Conservation Program Supervisor, Austin Watershed Protection. The presentation was made by Brent Bellinger, Conservation Program Supervisor, Austin Watershed Protection. 1 3. Staff briefing regarding Austin Resource Recovery's On-Demand Brush, Bulk, and Household Hazardous Waste Program. Presentation by Ron Romero, Assistant Director, Samuel Gilbert, Litter Abatement Division Manager, and Andy Dawson, Diversion Facilities Assistant Division Manager, Austin Resource Recovery. The presentation was made by Ron Romero, Assistant Director, Samuel Gilbert, Litter Abatement Division Manager, and Andy Dawson, Diversion Facilities Assistant Division Manager, Austin Resource Recovery. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. 5. Discussion and action to recommend approval of the Austin Water Capital Improvement Projects located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone for inclusion in the five-year Capital spending plan as required by Financial Policy #8. The motion to approve the Austin Water Capital Improvement Projects located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone for inclusion in the five-year Capital spending plan as required by Financial Policy #8, and request that the 2027 report reflect any water leak detection or abatement in the drinking water zone, was approved on Secretary Qureshi’s motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Changsut and Morrison were absent. Approve a recommendation to Council from the Dog’s Head Working Group regarding the environmental aspects and future potential City Council action, including a vote on the creation of a Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ), for the Dog’s Head area, located between the Colorado River, US Highway 183, and State …
Dog’s Head Data Analyses (a little bit) Dave Sullivan CoA Environmental Commissioner Univ. of TX at Austin, CEER Research Associate Cell 512-914-4710, email BC-David.Sullivan@austintexas.gov What’s measured? CHLORIDE (MG/L AS CL) CHLOROPHYLL-A, PHYTOPLANKTON UG/L, CHROMO-FLOURO E. COLI, COLILERT, IDEXX METHOD, MPN/100ML E.COLI, COLILERT, IDEXX, HOLDING TIME MACROPHYTE BED AT COLLECTION POINT (%) NITRITE PLUS NITRATE, TOTAL 1 DET. (MG/L AS N) NITROGEN, AMMONIA, TOTAL (MG/L AS N) NITROGEN, KJELDAHL, TOTAL (MG/L AS N) ORTHPHOSPHATE PHOSPHORUS,DISS,MG/L,FILTER >15MIN OXYGEN, DISSOLVED (MG/L) OXYGEN, DISSOLVED (PERCENT OF SATURATION) PH (STANDARD UNITS) PHEOPHYTIN-A UG/L FLUOROMETRIC METHOD PHOSPHORUS, TOTAL, WET METHOD (MG/L AS P) RESIDUE, TOT DISS,UNSPEC CALC BASED ON COND (MG/ RESIDUE, TOTAL NONFILTRABLE (MG/L) SULFATE (MG/L AS SO4) TURBIDITY,FIELD NEPHELOMETRIC TURBIDITY UNITS, N PRESENT WEATHER (1=CLEAR,2=PTCLDY,3=CLDY,4=RAIN DAYS SINCE PRECIPITATION EVENT (DAYS) TEMPERATURE, WATER (DEGREES CENTIGRADE) STREAM FLOW ESTIMATE (CFS) FLOW:1=No Flow,2=Low,3=Normal,4=Flood,5=High,6=D SPECIFIC CONDUCTANCE,FIELD (UMHOS/CM @ 25C) E. Coli trends 12474 (US 183) 12469 (FM 973) Turbidity US 183: 5.3 FM973: 17.9 12474 (US 183) 12469 (FM 973) Can do more with guidance • I’m an “air” guy, after all….
Dog’s Head Working Group Environmental Commission Jennifer Bristol, June 29, 2026 Process Comprised of more than 20 individuals, the working group met 3 times between June 22 and June 29 A total system failure From the City of Austin that is eroding public trust The City failed to follow it’s own processes An Environmental Assessment or an Inventory have not been conducted per the City’s own Environmental Criteria Manual How can we plan Without the proper assessments •363 Species of birds recorded just across the river •Hornsby Bend Bird Observatory is a must see for any birder living in or visiting Austin •Birding generates $24 Billion annually to the Texas economy •Austin is home to the leading bird and nature tour company in the world •There are 4 Wild Birds Unlimited Stores in the greater Austin area Not 100% bombed Out Needs restoration- yes, but not 100% bombed out Farming and Ranching Since the 1830s Sighted in the Travis County Historial Commission Report 2018 According to Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, less than 1% of the original blackland prairie remains, lost forever due to development, row-crop agriculture, and overgrazing. It is one of the most endangered ecosystems in the U.S. Longhorn Dam High-Hazard Designation: The National Inventory of Dams tracks it as a "high hazard potential" dam. This ranking is due to the severe economic and human risks downstream if the structure fails completely. And what about the floodplain maps? Without an Environmental Assessment those maps are being modified without the input of City Staff at this time. Citizen Boards and Commissions act as oversight for the community and the environment •City Code of Austin, 2-1-144, the Board Authority of the Environmental Commission, which states, in part, “the commission shall advise the city council, the city manager, and the department concerning policies, projects, and programs that affect the quality of life or have the potential to affect the environment” The contract removes normal oversight From the Boards and Commissions- for up to 45 years Article V of the Draft Dog’s Head Development Agreement modifies multiple environmental sections of the Land Development Code within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Environmental Commission including: • • • • • • establishing a 200-foot Critical Water Quality Zone along the Colorado River (Section 5.07) and authorizing extensive development within the CWQZ. exempting Original Development from the cut and fill requirements of City Code …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1405 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Environmental Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Nicole Corona, 737-291-3084, Nicole.Corona@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Mariana Krueger, Chair Jennifer Bristol, Vice Chair Haris Qureshi, Secretary Richard Brimer Isabella Changsut Annie Fierro AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Justin Fleury Martin Luecke Allison Morrison David Sullivan The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on June 3, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the Spill Response Program. Presentation by Ana Gonzalez, Environmental Monitoring and Compliance Division Manager, and Biz Yarbrough, Environmental Compliance Specialist Senior, Austin Watershed Protection. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of the environmental and drainage requirements in the Development Agreement for Dog's Head, located between the Colorado River, US Highway 183, and State Highway 130. Presentation by Andy Pastor, Endeavor Real Estate Group, and Richard Suttle, Armbrust and Brown PLLC. Sponsored by Chair Krueger, Vice Chair Bristol, Secretary Qureshi, and Commissioner Brimer. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve the creation of a working group to organize and engage community stakeholders; advise the applicant, City of Austin, and City Council on the regulatory plan; and to make recommendations regarding the regulating plan of the Dog's Head development agreement. Sponsored by Vice Chair Bristol and Commissioner Brimer. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS City Code requires at least two board members sponsor an item to be included on an agenda. This section of the agenda provides members an opportunity to request items for future agendas. Staff should assume that if there is no objection from other members expressed at the meeting, the members’ silence indicates approval for staff to include on the next agenda. ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MINUTES REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2026 The Environmental Commission convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, located at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Krueger called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Mariana Krueger, Chair Haris Qureshi, Secretary Justin Fleury David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Jennifer Bristol, Vice Chair Richard Brimer Annie Fierro PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Becky Woodward, Environmental and noise pollution concerns of data centers. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on May 20, 2026. The minutes from the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on May 20, 2026, were approved on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Luecke’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Fierro was off the dais. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the Technical Advisory Review Panel (TARP). Presentation by Brydan Summers, Land Development Rules Administrator, Austin Development Services. The presentation was made by Brydan Summers, Land Development Rules Administrator. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of the Bond Election Advisory Task Force. Presentation by Commissioner Sullivan. Sponsors: Chair Krueger and Commissioner Sullivan. 1 The presentation was made by Commissioner Sullivan. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Discussion and action to approve a recommendation to Council regarding the environmental requirements of the Development Agreement for Dog’s Head, located between the Colorado River, US Highway 183, and State Highway 130. Sponsored by Vice Chair Bristol and Commissioner Brimer. Approve the creation of a working group regarding the Development Agreement for Dog's Head. Sponsored by Vice Chair Bristol and Commissioner Brimer. ADJOURNMENT Chair Krueger adjourned the meeting at 8:01 p.m. without objection. 2
Spill Response Program City of Austin Environmental Commission Presented by: Biz Yarbrough, Water Quality Compliance Austin Watershed Protection | June 17, 2026 Who is Water Quality Compliance? A field team of environmental regulators, emergency first responders, and pollution investigators that protect Austin surface water from polluting discharges through the application of water quality regulations and authority. 2 Water Quality Compliance Team, June 2026 3 4 What is the Spill Response Program? DETECT ELIMINATE 5 DETECT Monitor Sediment-laden water flows into storm drain 6 DETECT Monitor Call Intake 7 DETECT Monitor Call Intake Respond Water Quality Compliance collaborates on spill with Fire Department on South Lamar Bridge 8 DETECT Monitor Call Intake Respond Investigate Screenshot of map depicting water, sewer, stormwater infrastructure 9 DETECT Monitor Call Intake Respond Investigate Assess Water Quality Compliance uses a sonde to measure physical, chemical, and biological properties of water 10 ELIMINATE Intervene Timeout! 11 ELIMINATE Intervene Control & Contain Water Quality Compliance uses absorbent pads and booms to mitigate and minimize spill impacts 12 ELIMINATE Intervene Control & Contain Educate / Inform Water Quality Compliance provides technical advice 13 ELIMINATE Intervene Control & Contain Educate / Inform Direct Compliance Contractors work on remediating petroleum from a leaking underground storage tank, which was discovered through a spill investigation 14 ELIMINATE Intervene Control & Contain Educate / Inform Direct Compliance Enforce Water Quality Compliance issues written NOVs 15 Prioritization and Rapid Response The “Rolling Command Center” Trained Spill Responder Emergency Response Vehicle + = A powerful resource Emergency Response work truck 16 Where do we regulate? Anywhere within the Planning Jurisdiction (City Limits + ETJ) 17 Where do spills occur? 18 What types of pollutants do we find? Chemicals 5% Yard Wastes 2% Soaps 1% Sewage 28% Food Grease 5% Paint 5% Wastewater 8% Trash 9% Sediment 14% Petroleum 23% 19 Spill Response numbers • Investigate an average of 940 incidents each year • Direct mitigation of 16.1 million gallons of pollutants each year, on average • Oversee recovery of around 1,300 cubic yards of pollutants annually S T N E D C N I I # 1,200 1,000 800 600 400 200 0 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24 FY25 FY26 YEAR Emergency Non-Emergency 20 Why? So that… Austin waterways provide maximum benefit for all We meet obligations: • State and Federal Requirements • COA Emergency Operations Plan • Agreements / Memorandum of Understandings (MOUs) Austin skyline …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MINUTES REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026 The Environmental Commission convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, located at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Krueger called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Mariana Krueger, Chair Jennifer Bristol, Vice Chair Annie Fierro Martin Luecke David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Richard Brimer Isabella Changsut PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on June 3, 2026. The minutes from the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on June 3, 2026, were approved on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Vice Chair Bristol’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Secretary Qureshi and Commissioners Fleury and Morrison were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the Spill Response Program. Presentation by Ana Gonzalez, Environmental Monitoring and Compliance Division Manager, and Biz Yarbrough, Environmental Compliance Specialist Senior, Austin Watershed Protection. The presentation was made by Biz Yarbrough, Environmental Compliance Specialist Senior, Austin Watershed Protection. 1 DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of the environmental and drainage requirements in the Development Agreement for Dog's Head, located between the Colorado River, US Highway 183, and State Highway 130. Presentation by Andy Pastor, Endeavor Real Estate Group, and Richard Suttle, Armbrust and Brown PLLC. Sponsored by Chair Krueger, Vice Chair Bristol, Secretary Qureshi, and Commissioner Brimer. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve the creation of a working group to organize and engage community stakeholders; advise the applicant, City of Austin, and City Council on the regulatory plan; and to make recommendations regarding the regulating plan of the Dog's Head development agreement. Sponsored by Vice Chair Bristol and Commissioner Brimer. The motion to approve the formation of the Dog’s Head Working Group to organize and engage community stakeholders; advise the applicant, City of Austin, and City Council on the regulatory plan; and to make recommendations regarding the regulating plan of the Dog's Head development agreement was approved on Vice Chair Bristol’s motion, Commissioner Luecke’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Secretary Qureshi and Commissioners Fleury and Morrison were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS None. ADJOURNMENT Chair Krueger adjourned the meeting at 9:59 p.m. without objection. The minutes were approved at the July 1, 2026, meeting on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Luecke’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Brimer and Fierro were off the dais. Commissioners …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1405 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Environmental Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Nicole Corona, 737-291-3084, Nicole.Corona@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Mariana Krueger, Chair Jennifer Bristol, Vice Chair Haris Qureshi, Secretary Richard Brimer Isabella Changsut Annie Fierro AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Justin Fleury Martin Luecke Allison Morrison David Sullivan The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on May 20, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the Technical Advisory Review Panel (TARP). Presentation by Brydan Summers, Land Development Rules Administrator, Austin Development Services. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of the Bond Election Advisory Task Force. Presentation by Commissioner Sullivan. Sponsors: Chair Krueger and Commissioner Sullivan. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS City Code requires at least two board members sponsor an item to be included on an agenda. This section of the agenda provides members an opportunity to request items for future agendas. Staff should assume that if there is no objection from other members expressed at the meeting, the members’ silence indicates approval for staff to include on the next agenda. ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Nicole Corona at Austin Watershed Protection, at 737-291-3084, Nicole.Corona@austintexas.gov to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Environmental Commission, please contact Nicole Corona at 737- 291-3084, Nicole.Corona@austintexas.gov.
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MINUTES REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 2026 The Environmental Commission convened in a regular meeting on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, located at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Kruger called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Mariana Krueger, Chair Haris Qureshi, Secretary Annie Fierro Justin Fleury Allison Morrison David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Richard Brimer Isabella Changsut PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on May 6, 2026. The minutes from the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on May 6, 2026, were approved on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Secretary Qureshi’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Changsut and Fierro were off the dais. Vice Chair Bristol and Commissioner Luecke were absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Discussion and action to approve a recommendation regarding potential environmental impacts of the MoPac South Project, as presented to the Environmental Commission on May 6, 2026. The motion to approve a recommendation to Council regarding potential environmental impacts of the MoPac South Project was approved on Secretary Qureshi’s motion, 1 Commissioner Sullivan’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Changsut was off the dais. Vice Chair Bristol and Commissioner Luecke were absent. 3. Discussion and action to approve a recommendation to Council regarding the Barton Springs Road Bridge Project, as presented to the Environmental Commission on May 6, 2026. The motion to approve a recommendation to Council regarding the Barton Springs Road Bridge Project was approved with the following amendments on Secretary Qureshi’s motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Vice Chair Bristol and Commissioner Luecke were absent. The following amendment was made by Commissioner Changsut, seconded by Commissioner Brimer, and approved on an 8-0 vote. Vice Chair Bristol and Commissioner Luecke were absent. The amendment was to include the following addition to the main motion: • Deputize a public liaison for this project, create an easy-to-use online, public portal with relevant project documents (including the full Environmental Impact report), and hold more frequent, targeted meetings in the community for continued stakeholder engagement. The following amendment was made by Commissioner Brimer, seconded by Commissioner Sullivan, and approved on an 8-0 vote. Vice Chair Bristol and Commissioner Luecke were absent. The amendment was to include the following addition to the main motion: • Include a full environmental …
Technical Advisory Review Panel (TARP) Overview Brydan Summers Land Development Rules Administrator Austin Development Services What are Administrative Rules? The difference between City Code and Administrative Rules City Code Adopted by Council, authorized by the City Charter Encompasses all ordinances, regulations, and the Land Development Code (LDC) Zoning Site Plans/Subdivisions Environmental Protections Administrative Rules Drainage Requirements Transportation Requirements Utilities Adopted by departments to administer, enforce, or comply with the Code 2 The Authority to Adopt Rules In 1992, City Council adopted Chapter 1-2 of City Code authorizing departments to develop rules Ord. 031106-11; Ord. 031211-11 “This chapter applies to a department with administrative duties under the Code, an ordinance, or another law.” “A department may adopt rules to implement, administer, enforce or comply with the Code, and ordinance or another law for which the department is responsible.” 3 List of Administrative Criteria Manuals Building Criteria Manual Drainage Criteria Manual Environmental Criteria Manual Fire Protection Manual Standard Specifications Manual Standards Manual Transportation Criteria Manual Utilities Criteria Manual 4 Rules Adoption Process 1 3 2 Rules Adoption Process Interdepartmental Review Phase 1- Two-week period Phase 2- Technical Advisory Review Panel Phase 3- Notice of Proposed Rule: Must be after the public comment period but no later than 70 days after the Notice of Proposed Rule Phase 4- Notice of Rule Adoption: - Public comments open for 31 days - All comments must receive a written department response Phase 5- Appeal Process: - A person may submit a written appeal to the adoption of the rule - The City Manager may affirm, amend or withdraw the appealed rule. If the City Manager does not act within 60 days, the rule is withdrawn Phase 6- Publication: The rule is posted on Municode The Technical Advisory Review Panel (TARP) 7 Administrative Rules and TARP Background Criteria Manuals are essential to implement the LDC, but rules have the potential to complicate the development process Common concerns about rules adopted by COA departments: Creates conflicts and inconsistencies Some rules are unnecessary to implement the LDC Drives up costs of development, including housing There has been limited opportunity for stakeholder engagement on rule development 8 TARP Development In response to concerns regarding criteria manuals, Council: Approved creation …
