ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA October 2, 2024 Hays Commons MUD, C12M-2024-0003 Milestone Community Builders (Andrew Cortes) COMMISSION MEETING DATE: NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: LOCATION: 2833 1/2 BLISS SPILLAR RD COUNCIL DISTRICT: Austin ETJ and Hays ETJ WATERSHED PROTECTION DEPARTMENT STAFF: Leslie Lilly, Environmental Conservation Program Manager, (512) 535-8914, Leslie.lilly@austintexas.gov WATERSHED: REQUEST: STAFF RECOMMENDATION: STAFF CONDITION: Bear Creek and Little Bear Creek Watersheds, Barton Springs Zone, Desired Development Zone Recommendation to initiate a Site-Specific Amendment to City Code Chapter 25-8, Subchapter A, Article 13, Save Our Springs Initiative Recommended Not applicable
SOS Site-Specific Code Amendment Initiation for Hays Commons MUD 2833 ½ Bliss Spillar Road 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 HAYS Commons Municipal Utility District (MUD) Not under consideration at this time – This item will return at same time as the proposed SOS amendment • Finances p ublic infrastructure imp rovements as defined by State Law and Texas Water Code with the consent of the City. The consent a greement p rovid es cer ta inty regarding the regulator y requirements ap plica ble to the District and provides the City with assura nce of a superior quality of development. • 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 SOS Site-Specific Amendment Initiation • 1992 Save Our Sp ring s ordina nce ad op ted by citizen initiative • Per 25 -8-515, variances to SOS are not allowed , prohibiting modification by MUD consent agreement • Only applies to the Ha ys Commons MUD project • Supermajority of Council must ap prove amendments to SOS • Council Resolution 20221011-076 on October 13, 2022: • “ The City Manager is d irected to initiate site specific variances ….. 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 SOS Site-Specific Code Amendment Initiation EVC EVC 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 Hays Commons C 1 2 M - 2 0 2 4 - 0 0 0 3 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 …
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Austin Ecological Services Field Office Michael Warriner – michael_warriner@fws.gov U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Regions Southwest Region: AZ, NM, OK, and TX Ecological Services Field Office in Texas • Administer U.S. Endangered Species Act • Petitioned species assessment • Listed species recovery • Conservation planning assistance Austin Ecological Services Field Office Project Leader, Karen Myers karen_myers@fws.gov Branch of Consultations and Habitat Conservation Plans Christina Williams christina_williams@fws.gov Branch of Listing and Recovery Michael Warriner Texas Transportation Branch Dawn Gardiner dawn_gardiner@fws.gov Austin Ecological Services Field Office Resources www.ecos.fws.gov/ecp/ Austin Ecological Services Field Office Resources www.ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/ Austin Ecological Services Field Office Branch of Listing and Recovery Central and Western Texas • 51 Endangered species • 12 Threatened species • 4 Proposed endangered species • 6 Petitioned species for listing consideration Austin Ecological Services Field Office Branch of Listing and Recovery (Species Leads) Austin Ecological Services Field Office Listed Species in Travis County Karst Invertebrates - Endangered • Bee Creek Cave harvestman • Bone Cave harvestman • Coffin Cave mold beetle • Krettschmarr Cave mold beetle • Tooth Cave pseudoscorpion • Tooth cave spider FY25 Deliverables 5-year reviews: updates on status of species Solicitation for new information published in Federal Register • Coffin Cave mold beetle • Tooth Cave pseudoscorpion • Tooth Cave spider Images courtesy of Colin Strickland (City of Austin) Austin Ecological Services Field Office Listed Species in Travis County Salamanders • Austin blind salamander - Endangered • Barton Springs salamander – Endangered • Jollyville Plateau salamander – Threatened FY25 Deliverables 5-year reviews: • Austin blind salamander • Barton Springs salamander Recovery outline/draft recovery plan: Jollyville Plateau salamander • ; FY26 Deliverables 5-year review: • Jollyville Plateau salamander Austin Ecological Services Field Office Listed Species in Travis County Birds • Golden-cheeked warbler – Endangered FY25 Deliverables • 5-year review Image courtesy of Gil Eckrich Austin Ecological Services Field Office Listed Species in Travis County Freshwater Mussels • Texas fatmucket - Endangered FY25 Deliverables • Recovery Outline Austin Ecological Services Field Office Listed Species in Travis County Plants • Bracted twistflower - Endangered FY26 Deliverables • Draft recovery plan Austin Ecological Services Field Office Proposed Species in Travis County Tri-colored bat (multi-state range) • Proposed endangered (9/14/2022) Image courtesy of Tim Krynak (Cleveland Metroparks) Austin Ecological Services Field Office Petitioned Species in Travis County www.fws.gov/project/national-listing-workplan Austin Ecological Services Field Office Petitioned Species in Travis County Not Substantial 90-day …
Balcones Canyonlands Conservation Plan (BCCP) October 2, 2024 Environmental Commission Sherri Kuhl AW Environmental Resource Officer Kimberlee Harvey BCCP Officer AGENDA BCCP Permit Overview BCCP Covered Species 2 Key Elements of BCCP Permit BCCP Permit Holders: City of Austin and Travis County Balcones Canyonlands Preserve (BCP) Partners: City of Austin, Travis County, Lower Colorado River Authority, City of Sunset Valley, The Nature Conservancy, Travis Audubon, Texas Cave Management Association, USFWS, Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, and private preserve managers Permit Area: 561,000 acres = City of Austin and unincorporated Travis County excluding the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge boundary within Travis County Original Permit Term: 30 years (May 2, 1996 to May 2, 2026) • Applied for 15-year Permit extension (May 2, 2026 to May 2, 2041) 3 BCCP Take Permits An Endangered Species Act (ESA) Incidental Take Permit is required for any “take” on an endangered or threatened species, incidental to an otherwise lawful activity. Key Elements of BCCP Mitigation Obligations Acquire, protect in perpetuity, manage, and monitor a system of preserve lands called the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve (BCP) 28,428 acres of Golden-cheeked warbler habitat 2,000 acres of Black-capped vireo habitat Seven preserve planning units called “macrosites” • Min. sizes and max. edge-to-area ratios requirements Acquire and/or manage 35 named caves for listed karst invertebrates + 27 named caves for karst invertebrates of concern Protect and manage populations of Canyon mock-orange and Texabama croton on the BCP 32,428 acres bird habitat & 62 caves 5 Golden-cheeked Warbler Black-capped Vireo *Delisted in 2018 Bee Creek Cave harvestman Bone Cave harvestman Kretschmarr Cave mold beetle Tooth Cave ground beetle Tooth Cave spider BCCP Covered Species • 7 Endangered Species • 1 De-listed Species • 2 Plants of Concern: Canyon mock-orange, Texabama croton Tooth Cave pseudoscorpion • 25 Karst Invertebrates of Concern Golden-cheeked Warbler • Listed as Endangered in 1990 • All are native Texans • Require Ashe Junipers for nesting and for hosting invertebrate prey • Need closed-canopy woodland of both junipers and broadleaved trees Photo by Gil Eckrich Number of Territorial Male Golden-cheeked Warblers ON THE BALCONES CANYONLANDS PRESERVE • Long-term monitoring allows us to determine how the Golden- cheeked Warbler is doing across the BCP. • Management focuses on protecting, maintaining, and creating high quality Ashe juniper- oak woodlands …
2025 Environmental Commission DRAFT Meeting Schedule Permitting and Development Center (PDC) Events Center Room 1405, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive, Austin, Texas 78752 6:00 pm March 5 (Ash Wednesday) January 15 February 5 February 19 March 19 April 2 April 16 May 7 May 21 June 4 June 18 July 2 August 6 August 20 September 3 September 17 October 1 November 5 November 19 December 3 July 16 (Special called for the Annual Planning Meeting) October 15 (Simchat Torah, Jewish holiday)
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, September 18, 2024 The ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION convened Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Bedford called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Perry Bedford, Hanna Cofer, Colin Nickells, Mariana Krueger, Haris Qureshi, Melinda Schiera, David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: None Commissioners Absent: Jennifer Bristol PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carol Philipson, Cell towers in Balcones Canyonlands Preserve in a REGULAR meeting on APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on September 4, 2024 The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on September 4, 2024 were approved on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Qureshi’s second on a 8-0 vote. Commissioner Bristol was absent. PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Name: Williamson Creek Interceptor (SP-2022-1368D) Applicant: Kane Wei, P.E., Austin Water Utility (AWU) Location: From 5111 S. 1st Street to 5404 E. William Cannon Drive along Williamson Creek Council District: District 6 Staff: Brad Jackson, Environmental Compliance Specialist Senior, 512-974-2128, Development Services Department, brad.jackson@austintexas.gov Applicant request: Request to vary from a) LDC 25-8-261 to allow development in the CWQZ for a wastewater interceptor and b) LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut up to 9 feet for removal of a building foundation exceeding the 4-foot limitation 1 3. 4. 5. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Staff Recommendation: Recommended with conditions Speakers: Brad Jackson, DSD Kane Wei, applicant (AW) A motion to close the public hearing passed on Commissioner Qureshi’s motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Bristol was absent. A motion to approve the Williamson Creek Interceptor variances with conditions passed on Commissioner Bedford’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second, on an 8–0 vote. Commissioner Bristol was absent. Presentation, discussion, and recommendation on the Great Springs Project – Mikey Goralnik, Trails and Transportation Planner, Great Springs Project; Requested by Environmental Commissioner David Sullivan Speakers: Mikey Goralnik, Great Springs Ana Aguirre, member of the public A motion to recommend the Great Springs Project passed on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second, on a 6–1 vote. Commissioner Brimer voted against. Commissioner Cofer abstained. Commissioner Bristol was absent. Chair Bedford called for a recess at 8:35 pm. Chair Bedford reconvened the meeting at 8:41 pm. DISCUSSION ITEMS Briefing on the listing status of native mussels – Matt Johnson, Texas Freshwater Mussel Conservation and Recovery Coordinator, Fish and Wildlife Service Item conducted as posted. No …
SOS Site-Specific Code Amendment Initiation for Hays Commons MUD 2833 ½ Bliss Spillar Road 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 HAYS Commons Municipal Utility District (MUD) Not under consideration at this time – This item will return at same time as the proposed SOS amendment • Finances p ublic infrastructure imp rovements as defined by State Law and Texas Water Code with the consent of the City. The consent a greement p rovid es cer ta inty regarding the regulator y requirements ap plica ble to the District and provides the City with assura nce of a superior quality of development. • 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 SOS Site-Specific Amendment Initiation • 1992 Save Our Sp ring s ordina nce ad op ted by citizen initiative • Per 25 -8-515, variances to SOS are not allowed , prohibiting modification by MUD consent agreement • Only applies to the Ha ys Commons MUD project • Supermajority of Council must a pp rove amendments to SOS SOS site -sp ecific amend ment has not been initiated. • 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 SOS Site-Specific Code Amendment Initiation EVC EVC 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 Hays Commons C 1 2 M - 2 0 2 4 - 0 0 0 3 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 …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, October 2, 2024 The Environmental Commission convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Bedford called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Perry Bedford, Hanna Cofer, Mariana Krueger, Melinda Schiera, David Sullivan, Richard Brimer Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Haris Qureshi Commissioners Absent: Jennifer Bristol and Colin Nickells PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on September 18, 2024 The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on September 18, 2024 were approved on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Cofer’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Krueger was off the dais. Commissioners Bristol and Nickells were absent. PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ACTION ITEMS Presentation on Hays Commons Municipal Utility District (MUD) and request for a recommendation to initiate a Site-Specific Amendment to City Code Chapter 25-8, Subchapter A, Article 13 of the Save Our Springs Initiative – Leslie Lilly, Environmental Conservation Program Manager, Watershed Protection Department Speakers: Leslie Lilly, Watershed Protection Robert Deegan, landscape architect for the project Jeff Howard, speaking for the applicant 1 1. 2. Mike Clifford, Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance (GEAA); received time donation from Anne Mason Jim Camp, Local landowner next to Hays Commons Bobby Levinski, Save Our Springs Alliance Tanzia Karim, Save Our Springs Alliance Brian Zabcik, Save Barton Creek Association Carol Pennington, Local landowner next to Hays Commons (virtual) Lee Burton, Save Barton Creek Association Craig Nazor, Sierra Club Roy Wayley, Sierra Club Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer A motion to close the public hearing passed on Commissioner Bedford’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Bristol and Nickells were absent. A motion to recommend the initiation of a Site-Specific Amendment to City Code Chapter 25-8, Subchapter A, Article 13 of the Save Our Springs Initiative for the Hays Commons Municipal Utility District (MUD) with conditions failed on Commissioner Bedford’s motion, Commissioner Cofer’s second, on a 3–3 vote. Commissioners Cofer, Bedford, and Sullivan voted in favor. Commissioners Krueger, Schiera, and Brimer voted against. Commissioner Qureshi abstained. Commissioners Bristol and Nickells were absent. Chair Bedford called for a recess at 8:08. Chair Bedford reconvened the meeting at 8:16. DISCUSSION ITEMS Presentation and discussion on listed endangered and potentially listed species in Travis County – Michael Warriner, Supervisory Fish & Wildlife Biologist, Fish and …
Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission September 18, 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). Colin Nickells Jennifer Bristol, Secretary David Sullivan Richard Brimer Perry Bedford, Chair CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Haris Qureshi Peter Einhorn Mariana Krueger Melinda Schiera Hanna Cofer, Vice Chair AGENDA CALL TO ORDER 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. 2. 3. 4. 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on September 4, 2024. PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ACTION ITEMS Name: Williamson Creek Interceptor (SP-2022-1368D) Applicant: Kane Wei, P.E., Austin Water Utility (AWU) Location: From 5111 S. 1st Street to 5404 E. William Cannon Drive along Williamson Creek Council District: District 6 Staff: Brad Jackson, Environmental Compliance Specialist Senior, 512-974-2128, Development Services Department, brad.jackson@austintexas.gov Applicant request: Request to vary from a) LDC 25-8-261 to allow development in the CWQZ for a wastewater interceptor and b) LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut up to 9 feet for removal of a building foundation exceeding the 4-foot limitation Staff Recommendation: Recommended with conditions DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Presentation, discussion, and recommendation on the Great Springs Project – Mikey Goralnik, Trails and Transportation Planner, Great Springs Project; Requested by Environmental Commissioner David Sullivan DISCUSSION ITEMS Presentation on the listing status of native mussels – Matt Johnson, Texas Freshwater Mussel Conservation and Recovery Coordinator, Fish and Wildlife Service Presentation on Occurrence, Distribution, …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, September 4, 2024 The ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION convened Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Bedford called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Perry Bedford, Jennifer Bristol, Peter Einhorn, Colin Nickells, Mariana Krueger, Haris Qureshi, David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: None Commissioners Absent: Hanna Cofer, Melinda Schiera PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL in a REGULAR meeting on None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on August 21, 2024 and the Special Called Meeting on August 28, 2024. The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on August 21, 2024 and the Special Called Meeting on August 28, 2024 were approved on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Nickells was off the dais. Commissioners Cofer and Schiera were absent. PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Name:1107 Castle Ridge Rd Wastewater Service Extension Request #5845 Applicant: Andrew Milam, Parkside Homes LLC Location: 1107 Castle Ridge Road, Austin, Texas 78746 Council District: Austin 2-Mile Extraterritorial Jurisdiction Staff: Kaela Champlin, Environmental Program Coordinator, (512) 974-3443, Kaela.Champlin@austintexas.gov Applicant request: Wastewater Service Extension Revision Staff Recommendation: Not recommended 1 3. 4. Speakers: Kaela Champlin, Watershed Protection Tanzia Karim, SOS A motion to close the public hearing passed on Chair Bedford’s motion, Commissioner Einhorn’s second, on an 8-0 vote. A motion to deny the 1107 Castle Ridge Rd Wastewater Service Extension Request #5845 passed on Commissioner Bristol’s motion, Commissioner Einhorn’s second, on a 7–1 vote. Commissioner Nickels voted against. Commissioners Cofer and Schiera were absent. Make a recommendation regarding the request for 200 E Riverside Planned Unit Development (PUD) (C814-2023-0057) located at 200 East Riverside Drive, Austin, Texas 78704 (District 9). Presenter: Leslie Lilly, Environmental Program Coordinator, Watershed Protection Department Speakers: Leslie Lilly, WPD Richard Suttle, applicant A motion to close the public hearing passed on Chair Bedford’s motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second, on an 8-0 vote. A motion to recommend the 200 E Riverside Planned Unit Development (PUD) with staff conditions passed on Commissioner Bristol’s motion, Commissioner Nickells’s second, on a 7–0 vote. Commissioner Brimer abstained. Commissioners Cofer and Schiera were absent. Name: Dominium Sage at Franklin Park, SP-2023-0389C.SH Applicant: Nick Brown, Kimley Horn Engineering Planning and Design Consultant Location: 4605 S Pleasant Valley Road, Austin, Texas 78744 Council District: District 2 Staff: David Michael, Environmental Review Specialist, …
Williamson Creek Interceptor SP-2022-1368D Located between 5111 S. 1st Street and 5404 E. William Cannon Drive along Williamson Creek Brad Jackson Environmental Compliance Specialist Senior Development Services Department 2 Property Data Williamson Creek Watershed Suburban Watershed Classification Desired Development Zone Not located over Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone Approximately 3.5-mile-long wastewater interceptor 3 Synopsis Project proposes replacement of existing 36-inch and 42-inch wastewater interceptors with a new 72-inch interceptor Interceptor will be constructed by tunnel boring methods with limited surface disturbance 20 “Cutover” connections proposed to new interceptor Variance Requests 4 To allow development in the CWQZ for a wastewater interceptor per LDC 25-8-261 To allow cut up to 9 feet for removal of a building foundation per LDC 25-8-341 Interceptor Overview 5 Interceptor Overview 6 Interceptor Overview 7 Interceptor Overview 8 Interceptor LOC and Slope Map 9 Interceptor LOC and Slope Map 10 Interceptor LOC and Slope Map 11 Interceptor LOC and Slope Map 12 Interceptor LOC and Slope Map 13 Variance Recommendation 14 Staff recommends the variances, having determined that the required findings of fact have been met. Staff also recommends and supports the following five conditions: 1. Payment into the Water Supply Mitigation Fund as per Appendix Q-7: Riparian Zone Mitigation of the ECM in the amount of $606,850 for 15.7 acres of required mitigation for a utility line installed parallel to a creek centerline. 2. All areas of the Limits of Construction (LOC) within the CWQZ will be restored with 609S Native Seeding and Planting per restoration plan sheets. Variance Recommendation & Conditions Continued 15 3. Previously identified portions of the exposed infrastructure for the existing and to be abandoned wastewater interceptor will be removed from the CWQZ and restored to natural conditions as per approved plans. 4. The abandoned wastewater interceptor diversion building will be demolished and the hill underneath it will be removed to provide additional floodwater storage and a consistent grade for the CWQZ and restoration of the riparian area at S. Pleasant Valley Road and Williamson Creek. 5. An odor control facility will be installed as part of the project to reduce impacts to adjacent properties. Access Shaft Site and Odor Control Facility 16 17 Portions of project located within the Williamson Creek Greenbelt and Parkland Williamson Creek Interceptor Route Restoration Plans 18 Restoration Plans 19 Location of Cut Variance Restoration Plans 20 Restoration Plans …
ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA COMMISSION MEETING DATE: September 18, 2024 NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: Williamson Creek Interceptor (SP-2022-1368D) NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: Kane Wei, P.E., Austin Water Utility (AWU) LOCATION: From 5111 S. 1st Street to 5404 E. William Cannon Drive along Williamson Creek COUNCIL DISTRICT: District 6 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW STAFF: WATERSHED: REQUEST NO. 1: REQUEST NO. 2: Brad Jackson, Environmental Compliance Specialist Senior, DSD, 512-974-2128, Brad.Jackson@austintexas.gov Williamson Creek, Suburban Watershed, Desired Development Zone A Land Use Commission variance is requested to allow development in the CWQZ for a wastewater interceptor per LDC 25-8-261 A Land Use Commission variance is requested to allow cut up to 9 feet for removal of a building foundation exceeding the 4-foot limitation per LDC 25-8-341 Staff recommends approval of the variance with conditions Staff recommends approval of the variance 1. Payment into the Water Supply Mitigation Fund as per Appendix Q-7: Riparian Zone Mitigation of the ECM in the amount of $606,850 for 15.7 acres of required mitigation for a utility line installed parallel to a creek centerline. 2. All areas of the Limits of Construction (LOC) within the CWQZ will be restored with 609S Native Seeding and Planting per restoration plan sheets. 3. Previously identified portions of the exposed infrastructure for the existing and to be abandoned wastewater interceptor will be removed from the CWQZ and restored to natural conditions as per approved plans. 4. The abandoned wastewater interceptor diversion building will be demolished and the hill underneath it will be removed to provide additional floodwater storage and a consistent grade for the CWQZ and restoration of the riparian area at S. Pleasant Valley Road and Williamson Creek. 5. An odor control facility will be installed as part of the project to reduce impacts to adjacent properties. Page 2 of 2 STAFF RECOMMENDATION NO. 1: STAFF RECOMMENDATION NO. 2: STAFF CONDITIONS: Page 2 of 2 Development Services Department Staff Recommendations Concerning Required Findings Project Name: Ordinance Standard: Watershed Protection Ordinance Variance Request: Williamson Creek Interceptor To allow development in the CWQZ for a wastewater interceptor 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. 2. 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 …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MOTION 20240918-003 Date: September 13, 2024 Subject: Great Spring Project Seconded by: Motion by: __ WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission was given a presentation by Trails and Transportation Planner, Mikey Goralnik, of the Great Springs Project. The Great Springs Project (GSP) is an Austin-based non-profit organization with a demonstrated capacity to support local governments and other partners in the region with implementing priority trail and conservation projects; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission understands the Great Springs Project is creating a greenway of protected lands between Austin and San Antonio over the Edwards Aquifer recharge zone. Connected by a network of spring-to-spring trails which link the four iconic springs of Central Texas: Barton Springs, San Marcos Springs, Comal Springs, and San Antonio Springs. Great Springs Project works to unify existing local efforts to address the most critical water, land, wildlife, and public health challenges facing the Central Texas region.; and WHEREAS, the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan identifies the Urban Trails System, highlighted by the Tier I and Tier II Urban Trails, as “an integral part of the transportation network” to “increase connectivity between neighborhoods, facilitate active trips, promote healthy lifestyles and outdoor experiences, and strengthen our community’s connection to nature and our ecosystem; and WHEREAS, numerous local and regional planning efforts, including the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan, Climate Equity Plan, Green Infrastructure Strengths and Gaps Assessment, and Central Texas Regional Air Quality Plan, state the importance of partnerships between the city and non-profit partners for rapidly and fully implementing the community’s vision of a connected, resilient, healthy, and prosperous Austin, and WHEREAS, Great Springs Project has a mission, capacity and resources to support the City’s connectivity, mobility, resiliency, vitality, and equity objectives. The organization also furthers the goals of conservation and watershed protection of environmentally sensitive karst areas and springs; and THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends the Parks and Recreation Department, Watershed Protection Department, Transportation and Public Works Departments, and others as necessary, be encouraged to partner and collaborate with the Great Springs Project. Collaboration could entail a variety of activities, such as partnering on applications to state and 1 federal grants to support various trail implementation activities that the partnership determines to be necessary and effective. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Environmental Commission, recommends City Council consider, a memorandum of agreement, memorandum of understanding, resolution of support, or similar, to establish a partnership with Great Springs Project that will …
GUIDING LOCAL // REGIONAL PLANS GREAT SPRINGS PROJECT ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION // 9.18.24 PREMISE // RAPID GROWTH • WE LIVE IN ONE OF THE FASTEST GROWING REGIONS IN THE US • (AND THAT GROWTH DOESN’T ALWAYS HAPPEN EFFICIENTLY OR STRATEGICALLY) • LAND USE PATTERNS CREATE CHALLENGES FOR BUILT INFRASTRUCTURE • DEVELOPMENT DECISIONS CHALLENGE THE QUANTITY AND QUALITY OF GROUNDWATER IN THE REGION Map 1. The Built Environment Blazing a Trail in a Fast-Growing Region T C E J O R P S G N I A key challenge for this project is how to create a contiguous network of trails and open space as Central Texas transforms into a mega-region. Between now and 2036, the population of Texas will grow at three times the rate of the rest of the US; the four-county region is expected to grow nearly four times as fast.1, 2 This growth presents many challenges for Central Texas: • • • Strain on natural resources, such as water supply Strain on built infrastructure, such as transportation and utilities Loss of open spaces for wildlife, aquifer recharge, flood protection, and recreation Projected Population Growth Rates 2019–2036 SOURCES: - Population density based on 2010 geography using a 2020 population estimate (https://www.arcgis.com/home/item. html?id=db3f9c8728dd44e4ad455e0c27a85eea) - Developed land (Developed, Open Space; Developed, Low Intensity; Developed, Medium Intensity; Developed, High Intensity). National Land Cover Database (https://apd.maps.arcgis.com/home/item. html?id=3ccf118ed80748909eb85c6d262b426f) ______ 1 U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division; https://www.census. gov/data/tables/time-series/demo/popest/intercensal-2000- 2010-counties.html 2 Texas Demographic Center https://demographics.texas.gov/ data/tpepp/projections/ 18 THE CH ALLENGE R P S T A E R G E G N E L L A H C E H T This plan will help local communities and regional organizations face these challenges by identifying a recommended network of connected trails and protected lands as the region grows. Opportunity in Growth The key conservation and trail-building opportunity that comes along with a growing population is the greater potential for the large- scale funding that will be needed to protect land for parks, trails, and open space. Recent examples include the Hays County 2020 Parks and Open Spaces Bond, the City of Austin’s 2020 Active Transportation and Safety Bond, and the Travis County 2023 Parks Bond. Similarly, increased coordination with development projects could yield substantial results for trails and open spaces, such as the following: 🟊🟊 Parkland and trail dedication with new residential and commercial development 🟊🟊 Coordination of trail development with TxDOT and other transportation partners 🟊🟊 …
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Texas Freshwater Mussel Updates TEXAS FRESHWATER MUSSEL CONSERVATION AND RECOVERY COORDINATOR MATT JOHNSON AUSTIN TX ESFO MATTHEW_S_JOHNSON@FWS.GOV General Central Texas Freshwater Mussel Ecology Occupy freshwater rivers, creeks, and streams Inhabit streambeds consisting of mixtures of bedrock, cobble, gravel, sand, and silt Require a host fish to complete their unique reproductive cycle. Mussels can be host fish specialists or generalists. Require stable habits and adequate water quantity and quality: Pollution Appropriate Temperatures Instream Flows G. Pandolfi - FWS Habitat Requirements Substrate Suitable substrate requirements vary by species root wads Cobble, gravel, sand, silt – Stability! Some species will utilize undercut banks or Water Flow/Quantity Appropriate Flow Regime Flow Refugia – area of stream bed that is not mobilized during high flooding events Water Quality – Pollution, ammonia, turbidity, conductivity, etc. Water Temperature – behavior, feeding rate, dissolved oxygen consumption and reproduction are all tied to temperature Freshwater Mussel Habitats Primary Threats Habitat Alterations Flow alteration and decline (water quantity) Sediment accumulation Reduced water quality Fish barriers Overcollection Ammonia Freshwater Mussel Ecosystem Services Texas Freshwater Mussel Conservation History 2007 – Suite of mussel species petitioned for listing under the ESA 2009 – USFWS issued a positive 90-day finding for most of the petitioned species 2009 – TPWD listed 15 species as State-Threatened 2011 – 12-month finding determined listing was warranted but precluded by other activities Resulted in mussel species being added to the Candidate List Species placed into listing work plan to be completed between FY20 and FY22. The Service created several Species Status Assessment (SSA) packages to review the status of selected freshwater mussel species across the state. SSA information is presented to a Recommendation Team where policy is applied to the best available science to reach a listing recommendation. The listing recommendation is then made to the Regional Director who decides if they approve or disapprove of the recommendation. What Actions did the Service Take? On August 26, 2021, the Service proposed: The listing of 5 freshwater mussels as Endangered with associated Critical Habitat The listing of 1 freshwater mussel as Threatened with a 4(d) rule and associated Critical Habitat Proposed critical habitat in 27 units (1,944 river miles …
1 Briefing on Occurrence, Distribution, and Protected Status of Austin-Area Freshwater Mussels N I T S U A F O Y T I C Environmental Commission September 18, 2024 Bianca J. Perez WPD Environmental Scientist Bianca.Perez@austintexas.gov W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 2 Introduction • I m p r o ve wa t e r q u a l i t y h a b i t a t • P r o v i d e s t r u c t u r a l • P r o v i d e n u t r i e n t c y c l i n g a n d s t o r a g e • S e n t i n e l s p e c i e s N I T S U A F O Y T I C W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 2 Introduction N I T S U A F O Y T I C • H a b i t a t d e g r a d a t i o n • Impervious cover • E n v i r o n m e n t a l p o l l u t i o n • Anthropogenic pollution • F l o w m a n a g e m e n t / a t t e n u a t i o n • Highland Lakes • I n v a s i v e s p e c i e s • Zebra mussels • Asian clams 3 Zebra mussels Public awareness 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 Stream restoration project N I T S U A F O Y T I C 4 Objectives O b t a i n g e n e r a l p o p u l a t i o n i n f o r m a t i o n i …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240918-002 Date: September 18, 2024 Subject: Williamson Creek Interceptor (SP-2022-1368D) located at 5111 S. 1st Street to 5404 E. William Cannon Drive along Williamson Creek Motion by: Perry Bedford WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the applicant is requesting: Seconded by: Mariana Krueger • A Land Use Commission variance is requested to allow development in the CWQZ for a wastewater interceptor per LDC 25-8-261 • A Land Use Commission variance is requested to allow cut up to 9 feet for removal of a building foundation exceeding the 4-foot limitation per LDC 25-8-341 WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the site is located in Williamson Creek, Suburban, Desired Development Zone. THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends the variance request with the following conditions: Staff Conditions: 1. Payment into the Water Supply Mitigation Fund as per Appendix Q-7: Riparian Zone Mitigation of the ECM in the amount of $606,850 for 15.7 acres of required mitigation for a utility line installed parallel to a creek centerline. 2. All areas of the Limits of Construction (LOC) within the CWQZ will be restored with 609S Native Seeding and Planting per restoration plan sheets. 3. Previously identified portions of the exposed infrastructure for the existing and to be abandoned wastewater interceptor will be removed from the CWQZ and restored to natural conditions as per approved plans. 4. The abandoned wastewater interceptor diversion building will be demolished and the hill underneath it will be removed to provide additional floodwater storage and a consistent grade for the CWQZ and restoration of the riparian area at S. Pleasant Valley Road and Williamson Creek. 5. An odor control facility will be installed as part of the project to reduce impacts to adjacent properties. Environmental Commission Conditions: 1. Continue to communicate with the communities, property owners, and renters that are nearby and potentially affected by the projects any concerns that may arise such as odors and emissions controls. 2. Consider reaching out and working with Friends of Grand Meadows and other organizations to encourage food sources that minimize food desert effects. 3. Environmental mats will be used instead of crushed gravel for temporary road access For: Haris Qureshi, Mariana Krueger, Hanna Cofer, Perry Bedford, Melinda Schiera, Colin Nickells, David Sullivan, Richard Brimer Against: None Recuse: None Absent: Jennifer Bristol wherever VOTE: 8-0 Approved By: Perry Bedford, Environmental Commission Chair
1 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MOTION 20240918-003 Seconded by: Mariana Krueger Date: September 18, 2024 Subject: Great Spring Project Motion by: David Sullivan WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission was given a presentation by Trails and Transportation Planner, Mikey Goralnik, of the Great Springs Project. The Great Springs Project (GSP) is an Austin-based non-profit organization with a demonstrated capacity to support local governments and other partners in the region with implementing priority trail and conservation projects; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission understands the Great Springs Project is creating a greenway of protected lands between Austin and San Antonio over the Edwards Aquifer recharge zone. Connected by a network of spring-to-spring trails which link the four iconic springs of Central Texas: Barton Springs, San Marcos Springs, Comal Springs, and San Antonio Springs. Great Springs Project works to unify existing local efforts to address the most critical water, land, wildlife, and public health challenges facing the Central Texas region.; and WHEREAS, the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan identifies the Urban Trails System, highlighted by the Tier I and Tier II Urban Trails, as “an integral part of the transportation network” to “increase connectivity between neighborhoods, facilitate active trips, promote healthy lifestyles and outdoor experiences, and strengthen our community’s connection to nature and our ecosystem; and WHEREAS, numerous local and regional planning efforts, including the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan, Climate Equity Plan, Green Infrastructure Strengths and Gaps Assessment, and Central Texas Regional Air Quality Plan, state the importance of partnerships between the city and non-profit partners for rapidly and fully implementing the community’s vision of a connected, resilient, healthy, and prosperous Austin, and WHEREAS, Great Springs Project has a mission, capacity and resources to support the City’s connectivity, mobility, resiliency, vitality, and equity objectives. The organization also furthers the goals of conservation and watershed protection of environmentally sensitive karst areas and springs; and THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends the Parks and Recreation Department, Watershed Protection Department, Transportation and Public Works Departments, and others as necessary, be encouraged to partner and collaborate with the Great Springs Project. Collaboration could entail a variety of activities, such as partnering on applications to state and federal grants to support various trail implementation activities that the partnership determines to be necessary and effective. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Environmental Commission, recommends City Council consider, a memorandum of agreement, memorandum of understanding, resolution of support, or similar, to establish a partnership with Great Springs …
