BRIEFING SUMMARY SHEET DEVELOPMENT ASSESSMENT CASE NUMBER: CD-2025-0002 REQUEST: Presentation of a Development Assessment Report for 1404 E. Riverside Planned Unit Development (PUD), located at 1400 ½ and 1404 East Riverside Drive, within the Lady Bird Lake Watershed in District 3. DEPARTMENT COMMENTS: The applicant has submitted a development assessment for an approximately 2.62-acre mixed use project located on the north side of East Riverside Drive, with frontage onto Lady Bird Lake, approximately 500 feet east of the intersection of East Riverside Drive and IH-35 frontage road (see Case Map – Exhibit A). The property in question is currently undeveloped and was previously the Acton Business School property, zoned ERC-CMU. It is located within the Waterfront Overlay combining district (WO), the WO East Riverside subdistrict. It is designated as “Specific Regulating District” on the Future Land Use Map in the East Riverside/ Oltorf Combined Neighborhood Plan. The property is located within the Lady Bird Lake Watershed, which is classified as an Urban Watershed. The proposed PUD is in an area that includes the 100-year floodplain and Critical Water Quality Zone (CWQZ). The current alignment of the Austin Light Rail Phase 1 runs alongside the property on East Riverside Drive. The proposed PUD consists of a development proposing 381 residential units. The project will include an amendment to the approved Acton School Redevelopment site plan (SP-2021-0451C), which permits 222 multifamily units, inclusive of 15 on-site affordable units, and includes 44% of site area for parkland dedication (see Development Assessment Application Letter – Exhibit B). The applicant states that they are seeking CS, general commercial services, district zoning and site development regulations for the PUD. The PUD seeks to remove the maximum height limitations established in the Waterfront Overlay, East Riverside subdistrict, which will allow a height maximum of 180 feet for the site. Further, the PUD proposes to allow a maximum of 65% impervious cover. The PUD proposes a maximum FAR of 4:1. In the Applicant summary, there is a note that they seek to establish the baseline at 2:1 FAR for purposes of complying with the development bonus as it applies to Development Bonuses (Chapter 25-2, Subchapter B, Article 2, Division 5, Subpart B, Section 2.5); the applicant notes they seek to retain the already approved 15 on-site affordable units and will comply with Development Bonuses for any additional requirements (see PUD Land Use Plan – Exhibit C). The envisioned …
9/15/2025 Response to 20241121-073 Staff Recommendations In response to City Council's directive to provide recommendations on specific City Code amendments or guidelines for bird-friendly building design, staff conducted comprehensive research including stakeholder engagement, case study analysis, cost feasibility assessment, and review of existing regulatory mechanisms and review processes. This analysis encompassed the current Austin Energy Green Building program requirements, successful local projects such as the Austin Airport IT building, and best practices from other cities around the country. Based on this evaluation, staff recommends the following three-pronged approach to address bird-friendly design while balancing environmental protection with practical implementation considerations: 1. Land Development Code Amendment Staff recommend amending Austin's code to establish mandatory bird-friendly design standards for new construction. The proposed amendment would include: Primary Requirements: • New commercial and multifamily buildings exceeding 10,000 square feet must meet bird-safe design performance standards for the first 100 ft of facade as measured by a Material Threat Factor (MTF) rating of 20 or less. Although American Bird Conservancy recommends a MTF of 30 or less, the staff recommendation targets a MTF of 20 due to the overwhelming impact that window collisions have on hummingbird populations, an important pollinator species that is at less of a risk for window collision with a 20 MTF rating. • Implementation of dark sky lighting compliance standards including fully shielded fixtures, exterior and Interior lighting on timers for after midnight and during peak migration. lighting temperatures below 3000K, and directional lighting requirements to reduce light pollution and minimize bird disorientation Additional Provision: • Incorporation of a waiver mechanism for deeply affordable housing projects to ensure housing affordability goals are not compromised (specific criteria and process developed in coordination with Austin Planning staff) 2. Austin Energy Green Building Program and Policy Updates Staff recommend coordinating with Austin Energy to implement progressive enhancements to existing green building frameworks: Future COA Green Building Policy Update: Require bird-friendly design feasibility studies that include cost analysis and evaluation of potential high-risk areas, with risk area definitions to be established within the ordinance Future Austin Energy Green Building Requirements: including simplified Update program requirements for bird-friendly design, potentially requirements and/or decoupling lighting requirements from glass treatments based on project feedback and implementation data
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250917-004 Date: September 17, 2025 Subject: Bird Friendly Design Motion by: Jennifer Bristol Seconded by: Mariana Krueger WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission and the Bird Friendly Design working group supported Resolution No. 20241121-073 that was adopted by Council on November 21, 2024; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the City of Austin was named a Bird City in Feb. 2023; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes that over 400 species of birds reside or migrate through Travis County every spring and fall, with endangered species and species of concern utilizing the Central Flyway and geological way finders of the Balcones Escarpment, Colorado River and Blackland Prairie during migration, as well as during nesting and wintering seasons; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the City of Austin benefits from the annual $5.5 billion generated from birdwatching and bird tourism in Texas; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes city staff has met with stakeholders, reviewed the policies and codes implemented in other cities, and studied how bird-friendly design standards can best fit within the City’s code; and THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends Council initiate the findings and recommendations of staff as listed with the following addition. 1. In addition to commercial and multifamily buildings, the Environmental Commission recommends all City buildings be required to follow the guidelines and set an example for non-public buildings. VOTE 8-0 For: Jennifer Bristol, Mariana Krueger, Richard Brimer, Annie Fierro, Justin Fleury, Martin Luecke, Haris Qureshi, David Sullivan Against: None Recuse: None Abstain: None Absent: Isabella Changsut and Ashika Ganguly Approved By: Jennifer Bristol, Chair
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, September 17, 2025 The Environmental Commission convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Bristol called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Jennifer Bristol, Mariana Krueger, Richard Brimer, Annie Fierro, Justin Fleury, Martin Luecke, David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Haris Qureshi Commissioners Absent: Isabella Changsut, Ashika Ganguly PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Craig Nazor, on mowing of Grow Zones Corbin Graham, Travis County Landfill concerns APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on September 3rd, 2025. The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on September 3, 2025 were approved on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Changsut and Ganguly were absent. Commissioner Qureshi and Luecke were off the dais. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Thank Commissioner Cofer for her service to the Environmental Commission – Liz Johnston, Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Item conducted as posted. No action taken. 3. Presentation of Development Assessment Report for 1404 East Riverside Drive, located at 1400 ½ and 1404 East Riverside Drive, CD-2025-0002 (District 3). Applicant: Amanda Swor, Drenner Group. Staff: Marcelle Boudreaux, Planning Department, and Leslie Lilly, Environmental Program Manager, Watershed Protection Department 1 Speakers: Marcelle Boudreaux, Planning Amanda Swor, speaking on behalf if the applicant Liz Johnston, Environmental Officer (WPD) Cliff Schaefer, KW, Landscape architect Sam Pheiffer, Kimley-Horn, Civil Engineer Axel Weisheit, Ziegler Cooper Item conducted as posted. No action taken. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Presentation and possible recommendation on Staff’s response to Council Resolution 20241121-073, related to Bird-Friendly design – Leslie Lilly, Environmental Conservation Program Manager, Watershed Protection Department. Speakers: Leslie Lilly, WPD Craig Nazor, Sierra Club Roy Wayley Garrett Jaynes, Austin Energy Green Building A motion to recommend staff’s recommendations with an additional recommendation passed on Commissioner Bristol’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second on an 8–0 vote. Commissioners Ganguly and Changsut were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 5. Staff briefing on Austin Water’s Wildlands – Sherri Kuhl, Environmental Resource Officer, and Justin Bates, Environmental Conservation Division Manager, Austin Water Item conducted as posted. No action taken. 6. Staff briefing on a change to the Austin Parks and Recreation Concessions Policy to create Legacy Concessions – Idella Wilson, Contract Management Specialist IV, Austin Parks and Recreation Item conducted as posted. No action taken. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Commissioner Sullivan requested an …
Urban Forestry Committee Meeting September 16th, 2025 at 12:00 PM Permitting And Development Center, Events Center, Room 1401 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Urban Forestry Committee will be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Elizabeth Funk, Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov, no later than noon, the day before the meeting. The following information is required: speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, email address and telephone number (must be the same number that will be used to call into the meeting). CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Richard Brimer (Committee Chair) Hanna Cofer Isabella Changsut Mariana Krueger Martin Luecke CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 5 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Urban Forestry Committee Meeting of June 2, 2025 DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion on the FY 2025 annual tree preservation and replanting report – Naomi Rotramel, City Arborist, Development Services Department 3. Discussion and presentation on the Urban Forestry Replenishment Fund– Emily King, Urban Forester, Development Services Department 4. Discuss the possibilities of updating the City Code to protect mature and heritage trees – Richard Brimer, Urban Forestry Committee Chair 5. Discuss strategies to implement Environmental Commission recommendation 20241204- 004, related to supporting Austin’s Urban Forest– Richard Brimer, Urban Forestry Committee Chair FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Elizabeth 512-568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov; for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. Protection Department, Funk, Watershed at
Tree Preservation Report Environmental Commission Urban Forestry Subcommittee Meeting September 16th, 2025 Naomi Rotramel, City Arborist Preservation Inches Replanted for Mitigation Five Year Trend Thank you
Urban Forest Replenishment Fund S e p t e m b e r 2 0 2 5 Presentation Over view • Tree Ordinance • Urban Forest Replenishment Fund • Programs Tree Ordinance Origins Austin's first tree ordiance Invest tree mitigation 1983 Early 2000's Mid-late 2000's 2010 Collect tree mitigation Heritage tree ordinance Tree Ordinance in Practice Preserve trees on site Replant Mitigation fee *Find out more here: Environmental Criteria Manual section 3.5.4: Mitigation Urban Forest Replenishment Fund Payments to the UFRF may be used for: Off-site tree planting and maintenance Promoting tree care and preservation Urban forest conservation Enforcement of City tree protection and mitigation regulations Urban Forest Replenishment Fund • Special Revenue Fund • Managed by the Urban Forester • Budget approved by City Council annually • Fluctuating revenues • Supports multiple programs Programs • Urban Forest Grant • Urban Forest Funding Portal • Contracts Urban Forest Grant • Public facing grant program • Operated by the Urban Forest Program • Goal: The Urban Forest Grant strengthens Austin’s urban forest by funding stewardship activities like tree planting, tree care, education, and disease control projects. Urban Forest Funding Portal • Internal COA program • Operated by the Urban Forest Program • Goal: The UFFP makes funds available to City of Austin departments to support City of Austin projects, including tree planting, education, disease control, inventorying, and other related efforts. Contracts • NeighborWoods • Ready, Set, Plant! • Certified Arborist Prep Canopy Cover Heading 41% Canopy Cover 39K Acres of new canopy needed to meet 50% canopy cover goal. https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/d9ba0b99c60b4b8395414a09c4533949 Emily King Urban Forester emily.king@austintexas.gov Follow Nature in the City for events, updates, job postings, and more! facebook.com/NatureCityATX instagram.com/NatureCityATX
URBAN FORESTRY COMMITTEE MEETING REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, September 16, 2024 The Urban Forestry Committee convened in a REGULAR meeting on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Brimer called the Urban Forestry Committee Meeting to order at 12:04 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Richard Brimer, Martin Luecke Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Isabella Changsut Commissioners Absent: Hanna Cofer, Mariana Krueger PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Urban Forestry Committee Meeting of June 2, 2025 The minutes from the regular meeting on June, 2, 2025 were approved on Commissioner Changsut’s motion, Commissioner Luecke’s second, on a 3–0 vote. Commissioners Cofer and Krueger were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion on the FY 2025 annual tree preservation and replanting report – Naomi Rotramel, City Arborist, Development Services Department Item conducted as posted. No action taken. 3. Discussion and presentation on the Urban Forestry Replenishment Fund– Emily King, Urban Forester, Development Services Department Item conducted as posted. No action taken. 4. Discuss the possibilities of updating the City Code to protect mature and heritage trees – Richard Brimer, Urban Forestry Committee Chair Item conducted as posted. No action taken. 5. Discuss strategies to implement Environmental Commission recommendation 20241204- 004, related to supporting Austin’s Urban Forest– Richard Brimer, Urban Forestry Committee Chair Item conducted as posted. No action taken. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS None Chair Brimer adjourned the meeting at 1:28 p.m. without objection. The minutes of the September 16th, 2025, meeting were approved at the December 1st, 2025, meeting of the Urban Forestry Committee on Commissioner Brimer’s motion, Commissioner Luecke’s second, on a 3-0 vote. Commissioners Changsut and Fierro were absent.
Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission September 3, 2025 at 6:00 PM Permitting And Development Center, Events Center, Room 1405 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Environmental Commission will be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Elizabeth Funk, Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov, no later than noon the day before the meeting. The following information is required: speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, email address and telephone number (must be the same number that will be used to call into the meeting). CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Haris Qureshi Justin Fleury Mariana Krueger, Vice Chair Martin Luecke Hanna Cofer, Secretary Ashika Ganguly Annie Fierro Jennifer Bristol, Chair David Sullivan Richard Brimer Isabella Changsut CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on August 20th, 2025. 1 PUBLIC HEARINGS 2. Name: The Clovis at Mckinney Falls, SP-2024-0202D Applicant: Jake Brown; LDG Development, LLC Location: 6507 Mckinney Falls Parkway, Austin, Texas 78744 Council District: N/A - Extra Territorial Jurisdiction Staff: Mohamad Abdulkader, Senior Environmental Review Specialist, Development Services Department; 512-974-6303; Mohamad.abdulkader@austintexas.gov Applicant request: Variance request is as follows: Request to vary from LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill 8 feet to 15 feet. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommended with conditions DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation on Austin’s reservoirs monitoring and management efforts — Brent Bellinger, Conservation Program Supervisor, Watershed Protection Department FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Elizabeth Funk, Watershed …
The Clovis at Mckinney Falls 6507 McKinney Falls Parkway SP-2024-0202D Mohamad Abdulkader Environmental Review Specialist Senior Development Services Department 2 OUTLINE Property Data Synopsis Site Constriction/Regulation Variance Requests Grading Exhibits Variance Recommendation and Conditions 3 Property Data Cottonmouth Creek Watershed Suburban Watershed Classification Desired Development Zone Not located over Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone Austin 2-Mile ETJ Synopsis 4 15.97-acre site located at the intersection of McKinney Falls Parkway and Dee Gabriel Collins Road Elevation ranges from 631’ along to 578’. Site is generally flat, though there are some steep slopes along the orange highlighted areas shown below. Site Constriction/Regulation Accessibility – A driveway constructed fill 8’ to 15’ is required by the Travis County Fire Marshall to provide two different access points to the property. 5 Variance Requests 6 To allow fill from 8 to 15 feet in the Desired Development Zone. (LDC 25-8-342) Grading Exhibit (Fill) 7 Variance Recommendation and Conditions 8 Staff recommends the variance, having determined that the required findings of fact have been met. Staff condition: 1. Contain the fill with an engineered structural retaining wall. 2. Parking lot trees (1.5” caliper from ECM Appendix F) within 50 ft. radius of all parking spaces. 9 THANK YOU 10 References Google Earth GIS property profile Variance packet 11
ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA COMMISSION MEETING DATE: 09/03/2025 NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: The Clovis at Mckinney Falls SP-2024-0202D NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: Jake Brown; LDG Development, LLC LOCATION: 6507 Mckinney Falls Parkway, Austin, Texas 78744 COUNCIL DISTRICT: N/A - Extra Territorial Jurisdiction ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW STAFF: Mohamad Abdulkader, Senior Environmental Review Specialist Development Services Department; 512-974-6303; Mohamad.abdulkader@austintexas.gov WATERSHED: REQUEST: Cottonmouth Creek Watershed, Suburban Classification, Desired Development Zone Variance request is as follows: Request to vary from LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill 8 feet to 15 feet. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends this variance, having determined the findings of fact to have been met. STAFF CONDITION: 1. Contain the fill with an engineered structural retaining wall. 2. Parking lot trees (1.5” caliper from ECM Appendix F) within 50 ft. radius of all parking spaces. Development Services Department Staff Recommendations Concerning Required Findings Project Name: The Clovis at McKinney Falls Ordinance Standard: Current code/WPO Variance Request: Request to vary from LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill 8 to 15 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. Other owners with similarly situated property with approximately contemporaneous development have access to the ROW. The Travis County Fire Marshall review is requiring two different access points to the property through both McKinney Falls Parkway and Dee Gabriel Collins Road. The northwest site of the property adjacent to Dee Gabriel Collins Rd. consists of slopes 25% and greater. The applicant proposes fill 8 to 15 feet to construct a driveway in compliance with fire access regulations that require finished driveway slopes to be 10% or less. 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 fill variance is necessitated by the lot configuration, existing topography, roadway connectivity, and the need for a second fire lane access. The proposed location of the second driveway is limited due to the Travis County Sight Distance restrictions at the Dee Gabriel Collins Rd. and McKinney Falls Parkway intersection. b. is the minimum deviation from the code requirement necessary to allow a reasonable use of the …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, August 20, 2025 The Environmental Commission convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Bristol called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Jennifer Bristol, Hanna Cofer, Justin Fleury, Ashika Ganguly, Mariana Krueger, Martin Luecke, Haris Qureshi, David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Richard Brimer, Annie Fierro Commissioners Absent: Isabella Changsut PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on August 6th, 2025 The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on August 6th, 2025 were approved as amended on Commissioner Qureshi’s motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Ganguly was off the dais. Commissioner Changsut was absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation on Watershed Protection Department Flood Response – John Beachy, Division Manager, Kevin Shunk, Floodplain Administrator, Watershed Protection Department Speakers: Kevin Shunk, WPD John Beachy, WPD Francis Acuña, public comment 1 Item conducted as posted. No action taken. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS None ADJOURNMENT Chair Bristol adjourned the meeting at 8:12 pm without objection. 2
The Reservoir Update – FY 2024 and 2025 B r e n t B e l l i n g e r, P h . D . C o n s e r v a t i o n P r o g r a m S u p e r v i s o r Wa 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 S e p t e m b e r, 2 0 2 5 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 Overview • A u s t i n L a ke s I n d e x • Goal – understand conditions and drivers impacting our waterways • Policy Relation – make management recommendations to protect and/or improve ecological conditions • A q u a t i c v e g e t a t i o n ( h o t t o p i c ) • Management challenges • S h o re zo n e h a b i t a t • Efficacy of code-and-criteria mitigation rules • M i c ro p l a s t i c s • Recent collaborative effort with University of Texas C I T Y O F A U S T I N W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 2 Austin Lakes Index Score Scores remain fair-to-good • • Summarize: water and sediment chemistry, biological communities, habitat Influenced by: land-use, pollutant inputs, climate, flow 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 Lake Austin • Aq uatic vegetation • Native and non-native plants • Grass carp populations • 358 grass carp stocked in July • Boater and homeowner per spective • Want more plant management • Fishermen per spective • Want less plant management …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250903-002 Date: September 3, 2025 Subject: The Clovis at McKinney Falls SP-2024-0202D Location: 6507 McKinney Falls Parkway, Austin, Texas 78744 Motion by: Mariana Krueger Seconded by: Jennifer Bristol WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the applicant is requesting to vary from LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill 8 feet to 15 feet; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the site is located in Cottonmouth Creek Watershed, Suburban Classification, Desired Development Zone; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes that Staff recommends the variance with the following conditions: 1. Contain the fill with an engineered structural retaining wall. 2. Parking lot trees (1.5” caliper from ECM Appendix F) within 50 ft. radius of all parking spaces. THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends the variance request with the following Environmental Commission conditions: 1. Have a five-year tree management plan 2. Utilize 609-S native seed planting, Blackland prairie grasses, and pollinator plants in green space areas, especially along the driveway and slopes 3. Utilize Dark Sky, bird-friendly, downcast lighting throughout the property, including warm-hue outdoor lighting 4. Incorporate pedestrian, bike, and multi-modal design into the property driveways to allow for greater and safer accessibility to roadways VOTE 7-0 For: Jennifer Bristol, Mariana Krueger, Richard Brimer, Isabella Changsut, Justin Fleury, Martin Luecke, David Sullivan Against: None Abstain: None Recuse: None Absent: Hanna Cofer, Annie Fierro, Ashika Ganguly, Haris Qureshi Approved By: Jennifer Bristol, Environmental Commission Chair
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, September 3, 2025 The Environmental Commission convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Bristol called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Jennifer Bristol, Mariana Krueger, Richard Brimer, Justin Fleury, Martin Luecke, David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Isabella Changsut, Commissioners Absent: Hanna Cofer, Annie Fierro, Ashika Ganguly, Haris Qureshi PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on August 20th, 2025 The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on August 20th, 2025 were approved on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Brimer’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Cofer, Fierro, Ganguly, and Qureshi were absent. Commissioner Krueger was off the dais. PUBLIC HEARINGS 2. Name: The Clovis at McKinney Falls, SP-2024-0202D Applicant: Jake Brown; LDG Development, LLC Location: 6507 McKinney Falls Parkway, Austin, Texas 78744 Council District: N/A - Extra Territorial Jurisdiction Staff: Mohamad Abdulkader, Senior Environmental Review Specialist, Development Services Department; 512-974-6303; Mohamad.abdulkader@austintexas.gov Applicant request: Variance request is as follows: Request to vary from LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill 8 feet to 15 feet. 1 Staff Recommendation: Staff recommended with conditions Speakers: Mohamad Abdulkader, DSD J Segura, Engineer for the project A motion to close the public hearing passed on Commissioner Bristol’s motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Cofer, Fierro, Ganguly, and Qureshi were absent. A motion to recommend the Clovis at McKinney Falls variance request with conditions passed on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Commissioner Bristol’s second on a 7 –0 vote. Commissioners Cofer, Fierro, Ganguly, and Qureshi were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation on Austin’s reservoirs monitoring and management efforts — Brent Bellinger, Conservation Program Supervisor, Watershed Protection Department Item conducted as posted. No action taken. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS None ADJOURNMENT Chair Bristol adjourned the meeting at 8:23 pm without objection. The minutes from the September 3, 2025 regular meeting were approved at the September 17, 2025 meeting on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Changsut and Ganguly were absent. Commissioners Qureshi and Luecke were off the dais. 2
Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission August 20, 2025 at 6:00 PM Permitting And Development Center, Events Center, Room 1405 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Environmental Commission will be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Elizabeth Funk, Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov, no later than noon the day before the meeting. The following information is required: speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, email address and telephone number (must be the same number that will be used to call into the meeting). CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Haris Qureshi Justin Fleury Mariana Krueger, Vice Chair Martin Luecke Hanna Cofer, Secretary Ashika Ganguly Annie Fierro Jennifer Bristol, Chair David Sullivan Richard Brimer Isabella Changsut CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on August 6th, 2025. 1 DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation on Watershed Protection Department Flood Response – John Beachy, Division Manager, Kevin Shunk, Floodplain Administrator, Watershed Protection Department FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Elizabeth Funk, Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov, Watershed Protection Department, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Environmental Commission, please contact Elizabeth Funk, (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov, Watershed Protection Department. 2
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, August 6, 2025 The Environmental Commission convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Bristol called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Jennifer Bristol, Isabella Changsut, Justin Fleury, Annie Fierro, Martin Luecke Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Richard Brimer, Ashika Ganguly, Mariana Krueger Commissioners Absent: Hanna Cofer, Haris Qureshi PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on July 2nd, 2025 and the Special Called Meeting on July 16th, 2025 The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on July 2, 2025 and Special Called meeting on July 16, 2025 were approved on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Changsut and Ganguly were off the dais. Commissioners Cofer and Qureshi were absent. PUBLIC HEARINGS 2. Name: RBI Austin Youth Development Complex, SP-2022-0567C Applicant: Katherine Lauer, 9442 N Capital of Texas Hwy, Plaza I, Suite 340, Austin, TX, 78759 Location: 7401 Loyola Lane, Austin, TX Council District: District 1 Staff: Eric Brown, Environmental Scientist Senior, 512-797-3139 1 Eric.brown@austintexas.gov Watershed Protection Department and Mike McDougal, Environmental Policy Program Manager, 512-974-6380 mike.mcdougal@austintexas.gov Development Services Department Applicant request: Variance request is as follows: a. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-261(G) to allow floodplain modification within a CWQZ; b. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-263 to allow floodplain modification outside of a CWQZ that is in good floodplain health condition; c. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut up to 8 feet; and d. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill up to 8 feet. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommended with conditions Speakers: Eric Brown, WPD Mohamad Abdulkader, Amanda Swor, on behalf of the applicant Matt Price, Founder of RBI Liz Johnston, WPD John Clement, WPD Johnathon McGee, Garza A motion to close the public hearing passed on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second, on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Cofer and Qureshi were absent. A motion to recommend the RBI Austin Youth Development Complex, SP-2022- 0567C, with conditions passed on Commissioner Bristol’s motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second on an 8–1 vote. Commissioner Krueger voted against. Commissioners Cofer and Qureshi were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation of Development Assessment Report for 600 East Riverside Drive, located at 600 and 600 ½ East Riverside Drive, CD-2025-0001 (District 9). …
Overview • Austin Flood History • Austin Flood Challenges • Flood Preparedness Strategy • Funding • Rain to River • Questions Austin Flood Challenges • Atlas 14 data shows Austin is experiencing more frequent and heavier rainfall • Austin has shallow soils and world record rainfall rates • 10% of land in Austin is in the floodplain and subject to flash flooding • More than 10,000 buildings and 400 roads are prone to flooding during a 100-year flood Flood Preparedness Strategy • Flood Mitigation • Flood Preparedness • Flood Response Flood Mitigation • Capital Improvement Projects • Floodplain & Drainage Regulations • Operations & Maintenance • Vegetation & Land Management • In-house Drainage System Upgrades Flood Preparedness • Preventative maintenance of drainage system • Pre-storm checks on critical locations • Monitor the weather for potential flooding • Coordinate with partner departments, Austin-Travis County Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) and Stakeholders • Communication & Engagement Flood Response • Flood Early Warning System (FEWS) • Watershed Protection Department Emergency Management Team • Department Operations Center • Flood Reconnaissance and Debris Management Flood Impacts & Response May 28, 2025 Department OPCON Level 2 • 8 low water crossing closures • 35 flooded structures • 2 WPD buildings impacted (back-up generation) • 298 Service Requests • 5 reconnaissance teams investigated areas with high intensity rainfall and met with impacted community members • Collaborated with Development Services Department to create resource documents and handouts for affected residents • 1,000 tons of debris removed from drainage system • Coordinated with Austin Resource Recovery and Transportation & Public Works for debris management • Participated in media requests to include in city-wide press conference Watershed Protection Department Operations Center (DOC) First time activated on May 29-30 for OPCON Level 2 Flood Impacts & Response July 5, 2025 Department OPCON Level 3 • 18 low water crossing closures; multiple closures for Spicewood Springs and Old Spicewood Springs • Residents trapped in between crossings on Spicewood Springs and needed rescue • 5 flooded structures • 170 Service Requests • Reconnaissance teams investigated areas with high intensity rainfall • Over 500 tons of debris removed from drainage system Investments to Date Historical Spending • Bond funds used towards 50 stormwater projects since 2001 • Total 114 flood projects have completed phases, costing approximately $567M • Funding sources include GO bonds, cash transfer from drainage charge revenue, and grants • Remaining …
Overview • Austin Flood History • Austin Flood Challenges • Flood Preparedness Strategy • Funding • Rain to River • Questions Austin Flood Challenges • Atlas 14 data shows Austin is experiencing more frequent and heavier rainfall • Austin has shallow soils and world record rainfall rates • 10% of land in Austin is in the floodplain and subject to flash flooding • More than 10,000 buildings and 400 roads are prone to flooding during a 100-year flood National Flood Insurance Program • Participated since 1983 • Must adopt and enforce floodplain regulations • Provides availability of federally-backed flood insurance to residents • Required for federal disaster funding 5 Purpose of Floodplain Regulations • Public safety • Reduce flood risk to residents, buildings, and roads • Minimize flood risk for new development • Make Austin more resilient 6 March 1974 - Waterway Ordinance Establishes 25-year floodplain protection, natural and traditional character Floodplain Regulation Timeline September 1974 • Austin enters FEMA emergency program • First floodplain maps 1983 Floodplain regulations become effective 2019 Floodplain regulations update in response to Atlas 14 1974 1981 1983 2003 2019 May 1981 Memorial Day Flood September 1981 Initial FEMA FIRM date • • Austin enters full NFIP 2003 Floodplain regulations amended to include administrative variance process 7 Floodplain Management Regulations Regulation Regulation Regulation Regulation Regulation Austin Austin Austin Austin Austin FEMA Min. Std. FEMA Min. Std. FEMA Min. Std. FEMA Min. Std. FEMA Min. Std. Increase in flood level No adverse impact Increase in flood level No adverse impact Increase in flood level No adverse impact Increase in flood level No adverse impact Increase in flood level No adverse impact Up to 1 foot Up to 1 foot Up to 1 foot Up to 1 foot Up to 1 foot Freeboard Freeboard Freeboard Freeboard Safe access Safe access Safe access 1 foot overall; 2 1 foot overall; 2 1 foot overall; 2 2 feet feet in some cases feet in some cases feet in some cases 1 foot above 100- 1 foot above 100- 1 foot above 100- year floodplain year floodplain year floodplain 0 feet 0 feet 0 feet 0 feet None None None Substantial Substantial improvement improvement 10-year 10-year cumulative cumulative Permit by permit Permit by permit Watershed conditions Fully developed Existing conditions 8 s g n d i l i u B f o r e b m u N 3,000 2,500 …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, August 20, 2025 The Environmental Commission convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Bristol called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Jennifer Bristol, Hanna Cofer, Justin Fleury, Ashika Ganguly, Mariana Krueger, Martin Luecke, Haris Qureshi, David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Richard Brimer, Annie Fierro Commissioners Absent: Isabella Changsut PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on August 6th, 2025 The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on August 6th, 2025 were approved as amended on Commissioner Qureshi’s motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Ganguly was off the dais. Commissioner Changsut was absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation on Watershed Protection Department Flood Response – John Beachy, Division Manager, Kevin Shunk, Floodplain Administrator, Watershed Protection Department Speakers: Kevin Shunk, WPD John Beachy, WPD Francis Acuña, public comment 1 Item conducted as posted. No action taken. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS None ADJOURNMENT Chair Bristol adjourned the meeting at 8:12 pm without objection. The minutes from the August 20, 2025 regular meeting were approved at the September 3, 2025 meeting on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Brimer’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners Cofer, Fierro, Ganguly, and Qureshi were absent. Commissioner Krueger was off the dais. 2
Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission August 6, 2025 at 6:00 PM Permitting And Development Center, Events Center, Room 1405 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Environmental Commission will be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Elizabeth Funk, Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov, no later than noon the day before the meeting. The following information is required: speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, email address and telephone number (must be the same number that will be used to call into the meeting). CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Haris Qureshi Justin Fleury Mariana Krueger, Vice Chair Martin Luecke Hanna Cofer, Secretary Ashika Ganguly Annie Fierro Jennifer Bristol, Chair David Sullivan Richard Brimer Isabella Changsut CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on July 2nd, 2025 and the Special Called Meeting on July 16th, 2025 1 PUBLIC HEARINGS 2. Name: RBI Austin Youth Development Complex, SP-2022-0567C Applicant: Katherine Lauer, 9442 N Capital of Texas Hwy, Plaza I, Suite 340, Austin, TX, 78759 Location: 7401 Loyola Lane, Austin, TX Council District: District 1 Staff: Eric Brown, Environmental Scientist Senior, 512-797-3139 Eric.brown@austintexas.gov Watershed Protection Department and Mike McDougal, Environmental Policy Program Manager, 512-974-6380 mike.mcdougal@austintexas.gov Development Services Department Applicant request: Variance request is as follows: 1. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-261(G) to allow floodplain modification within a CWQZ; 2. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-263 to allow floodplain modification outside of a CWQZ that is in good floodplain health condition; 3. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut up to 8 feet; and 4. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill up to 8 feet. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommended with conditions DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. Presentation of Development …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, July 2, 2025 The Environmental Commission convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Bristol called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Jennifer Bristol, Mariana Krueger, Justin Fleury, Martin Luecke, Haris Qureshi Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Richard Brimer, David Sullivan Commissioners Absent: Isabella Changsut, Hanna Cofer, Annie Fierro, Ashika Ganguly PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Savannah Lee, Equity Action, Community Investment Plan Santiago, concerns on the I-35 project APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on June 4, 2025 The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on June 4, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Haris’ motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Changsut, Cofer, Fierro, and Ganguly were absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend approval of the Austin Water Capital Improvement Projects located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone for approval to include in the 5-year Capital spending plan as required by Financial Policy #8. Speakers: Frida Guo, Austin Water Tina Romero, Austin Water Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer Kevin Critendon, Austin Water 1 A motion to recommend the Austin Water Capital Improvement Projects located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone for approval to include in the 5-year Capital spending plan with conditions passed on Commissioner Krueger’s motion Commissioner Bristol’s second on a 6–0 vote. Commissioner Brimer abstained. Commissioners Changsut, Cofer, Fierro, and Ganguly were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation and discussion on the Rain to River Strategic Plan – Sari Albornoz, Planner Senior, Watershed Protection Department Item conducted as posted. No action taken. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Chair Bristol requested an agenda item to create a working group to review on WPD’s Rain to River draft strategic plan in the fall. Commissioner Sullivan requested an agenda item on artificial turf, seconded by Chair Bristol. Interim Environmental Officer Liz Johnston said staff are working on researching the topic and offered to present in the future. Commissioner Krueger asked for an update from Austin Energy in the wake of the microburst storm, seconded by Commissioner Qureshi. Interim Environmental Officer Liz Johnston offered to share the after action report from HSEM. Chair Bristol asked for an agenda item to learn more about how projects recycled concrete and other materials during redevelopment. Chair Bristol reminded commissioners that the July 16th meeting is …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, July 16, 2025 The Environmental Commission convened in a Special Called meeting on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Bristol called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:11 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Jennifer Bristol, Mariana Krueger, Annie Fierro, Martin Luecke, David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Richard Brimer Commissioners Absent: Haris Qureshi, Isabella Changsut, Hanna Cofer, Ashika Ganguly PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL STAFF BRIEFINGS 1. Staff briefing on Robert’s Rules and general commission procedures – Elizabeth Funk, Program Coordinator, Watershed Protection Department Item conducted as posted. No action taken. 2. Staff briefing on best practices for Environmental Commission recommendations – Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Item conducted as posted. No action taken. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discuss goals and objectives for the Environmental Commission 2025-2026 year – Environmental Commission Chair Jennifer Bristol Item conducted as posted. No action taken. 1 ADJOURNMEN Chair Bristol adjourned the meeting at 8:30 pm without objection. 2
March 28, 2025 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION VARIANCE APPLICATION FORM PROJECT DESCRIPTION Applicant Contact Information Name of Applicant Street Address City State ZIP Code Work Phone E-Mail Address Katherine Lauer, P.E., GarzaEMC 9442 N Capital of Texas Hwy, Plaza I, Suite 340 Austin, TX 78759 512-298-3284 klauer@garzaemc.com Variance Case Information RBI Austin Child Development Complex SP-2022-0567C 7401 Loyola Lane, Austin, TX John Clement Case Name Case Number Address or Location Environmental Reviewer Name Environmental Resource Management Reviewer Name Applicable Ordinance Watershed Name Walnut Creek Watershed Classification ☐Urban X Suburban ☐Water Supply Suburban ☐Water Supply Rural ☐ Barton Springs Zone City of Austin | Environmental Commission Variance Application Guide 1 March 28, 2025 Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone ☐ Barton Springs Segment ☐ Northern Edwards Segment X Not in Edwards Aquifer Zones Edwards Aquifer Contributing Zone Distance to Nearest Classified Waterway Water and Waste Water service to be provided by ☐ Yes X No The onsite waterway is classified as an intermediate waterway Austin Water – Wastewater SER approval The variance request is as follows (Cite code references): TITLE 25. – LAND DEVELOPMENT CHAPTER 25-8. – ENVIRONMENT SUBCHAPTER A. – WATER QUALITY Request ARTICLE 7. – REQUIREMENTS IN ALL WATERSHEDS Division 1 – Waterway and Floodplain Protection Section 25-8-261(G) CRITICAL WATER QUALITY ZONE DEVELOPMENT & Section 25-8-263 FLOODPLAIN MODIFICATION Proposal is to allow grading modification and the addition of a crossing through the CWQZ and the floodplain located within the CWQZ. Existing 0 0 0% Proposed 234,614 5.386 31.4% The site is currently undeveloped grassland and 17.14 acres. The site is along the Imagine Austin Corridor with the corridor located north of the site along Loyola Lane. Per surveyed topographic data, there is an elevation change of approximately 35’ from the highest point (524’) of the site to the lowest point (477’) of the draw City of Austin | Environmental Commission Variance Application Guide 2 Impervious cover square footage: acreage: percentage: Provide general description of the property (slope range, elevation range, summary of vegetation / trees, March 28, 2025 summary of the geology, CWQZ, WQTZ, CEFs, floodplain, heritage trees, any other notable or outstanding characteristics of the property) that runs east to west through the center of the site. There are three creek channels that converge on-site then flow west through the center of the property. Portions of the dry creek bed have steeper slopes. The lot has both gentle and steep slopes in …
FUNCTIONAL ASSESSMENTOF FLOODPLAIN HEALTH 23 September 2021 Joe Farias Garza EMC 9442 Capital of Texas Highway North Austin, Texas 78759 RE: City of Austin Functional Assessment, Zone 2 — RBI at Loyola Lane Loyola Lane and Sendero Hills Parkway, Austin, Travis County, Texas HJN 21265.001 FA Dear Mr. Farias: The following provides a functional assessment of floodplain health findings from Horizon Environmental Services, Inc.’s (Horizon) field investigation conducted on 14 September 2021 for the above-referenced subject site. Horizon evaluated the subject site in accordance with the Watershed Protection Ordinance: Functional Assessment (FA) developed by the City of Austin (COA) Watershed Protection Development. The proposed project consists of development that has the potential to modify the 100-year floodplain and Critical Water Quality Zone (CWQZ) adjacent to unnamed tributaries of Walnut Creek. The subject site is located near the intersection of Loyola Lane and Sendero Hills Parkway, Austin, Travis County, Texas (Figure 1). Based on the location of the proposed construction activities within the CWQZ, Zone 2 of the FA was performed. Per the FA guidance, three 100-square-meter sample plots were to be evaluated along eight Zone 2 transects (Figure 2). Horizon took several photographs and measurements using the required tools listed in the FA. The tools included a 100-meter measuring tape, a densiometer, and a soil compaction meter. The hydric nature of vegetation species was determined from the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) National Wetland Plant List. Photographs from the FA are provided in Appendix A and scoring sheets for the eight transects are provided in Appendix B. 21265-001FA CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS 1507 S Interstate 35 Austin, TX 78741-2502 (512) 328-2430 www.horizon-esi.com An LJA Company Williamson Taylor, TX Lago Vista, TX §¨¦35 £¤183 Austin, TX Lee Manor, TX Elgin, TX Travis £¤290 Belterra, TX Hays §¨¦35 Subject Site £¤183 Elroy, TX Caldwell Bastrop Bastrop, TX " "" " " " " " " " " " """" Legend " " Transect Subject Site Date: Drawn: 09/15/2021 TED HJN NO: 21265.001FA Source: OSM, 2021 Figure 1 Vicinity Map RBI at Loyola Lane Loyola Lane and Sendero Hills Parkway Austin, Travis County, Texas I 0 1,000 2,000 Feet 21265 - RBI at Loyola Lane\Graphics\21265-001FA_01A_Vicinity.mxd " T-1 " T-7 " " " " T-6 " " " T-2 T-3 " " Parkway Hills Sendero Loyola Lane Cordoba Drive T-4 T-5 " " " " " T-8 Legend " " Transect Critical …
ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA COMMISSION MEETING DATE: August 6, 2025 NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: RBI Austin Youth Development Complex, SP-2022-0567C Katherine Lauer 9442 N Capital of Texas Hwy, Plaza I, Suite 340 Austin, TX, 78759 LOCATION: 7401 Loyola Lane, Austin, TX COUNCIL DISTRICT: District 1 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW STAFF: WATERSHED: REQUEST: Eric Brown, Environmental Scientist Senior, 512-797-3139 Eric.brown@austintexas.gov Watershed Protection Department and Mike McDougal, Environmental Policy Program Manager, 512-974-6380 mike.mcdougal@austintexas.gov Development Services Department Walnut Creek Watershed Suburban Classification Desired Development Zone 1. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-261(G) to allow floodplain modification within a Critical Water Quality Zone; 2. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-263 to allow floodplain modification outside of a Critical Water Quality Zone that is in good floodplain health condition; 3. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut up to 8 feet; and 4. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill up to 8 feet. Page 2 of 2 STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends these variances, having determined the findings of fact to have been met. STAFF CONDITIONS: Staff recommends the following conditions as shown on the provided exhibit: 1. Provide 1.55 acres of floodplain restoration 2. Provide 4.13 acres of floodplain mitigation 3. Pay $312,625.84 into the Riparian Zone Mitigation Fund 4. Place 4.74 acres of floodplain and 3.80 acres of environmentally sensitive land into conservation easement 5. Provide 0.63 acres of wildflower meadow in detention ponds 6. Provide an additional 0.62 acres of restoration within the conservation easement, outside of the floodplain Watershed Protection Department Staff Recommendations Concerning Required Findings Project Name: RBI Austin Youth Development Complex, SP-2022-0567C Ordinance Standard: Watershed Protection Ordinance (current code) Variance Request: Request to vary from LDC 25-8-261(G) to allow floodplain modification within the Critical Water Quality Zone (CWQZ) and from 25-8-263 to allow floodplain modification outside of a CWQZ that is in good floodplain health condition 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; Yes The site proposes a baseball field, softball field, small building, associated drives & parking, and required water quality controls. The site is located along an Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan Corridor, which allows a necessary crossing within the Critical Water Quality Zone (CWQZ) per section 25-8-262 of Title 25 …
RBI Baseball Youth Development Complex SP-2022-0567C 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 RBI Baseball Proper ty Data • Walnut Creek Watershed • Water Supply Suburban • Wetland Critical Environmental Features on site • Council District 1 C I T Y O F A U S T I N W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 2 RBI Baseball Background C u r r e n t l y u n d eve l o p e d s i t e p r o p o s i n g a b a s e b a l l / s o f t b a l l f i e l d , s m a l l b u i l d i n g, a s s o c i a t e d a c c e s s d r i ve s & p a rk i n g, a n d r e q u i r e d wa t e r q u a l i t y c o n t r o l s. • T h i s va r i a n c e w i l l a l l o w a c c e s s t o a n d d eve l o p m e n t o f t h e s o u t h e r n h a l f o f t h e s u b j e c t t r a c t s i m i l a r t o t h e o t h e r p r o p e r t i e s a l o n g t h e I m a g i n e Au s t i n C o r r i d o r. T h i s s i t e i s c o n s t r a i n e d t o t h e p r …
BRIEFING SUMMARY SHEET DEVELOPMENT ASSESSMENT CASE NUMBER: CD-2025-0001 REQUEST: Presentation of a Development Assessment Report for 600 E. Riverside Planned Unit Development (PUD), located at 600 and 600 ½ East Riverside Drive, within the Lady Bird Lake Watershed in District 9. DEPARTMENT COMMENTS: The applicant has submitted a development assessment for an approximately 1.75-acre mixed use project located on the north side of East Riverside Drive, with frontage onto Lady Bird Lake and Blunn Creek. (see Case Map – Exhibit A). The property in question is currently developed with an approximately 12,746 square foot restaurant with associated surface parking and related facilities that is zoned L-V-NP and CS-1-V-NP. It is located within the Waterfront Overlay combining district (WO), the WO Travis Heights subdistrict, and within the boundaries of the South Central Waterfront District. It is designated as “Mixed Use” on the Future Land Use Map in the South River City Neighborhood Plan. The property is located within the Lady Bird Lake Watershed, which is classified as an Urban Watershed. The proposed PUD consists of a mixed use development proposing 200 residential units and 8,000 square feet of retail/ commercial space (see Development Assessment Application Letter – Exhibit B). The proposed PUD is in an area that includes the 100-year floodplain and Critical Water Quality Zone (CWQZ). The site is defined on two sides by the primary setback areas along Lady Bird Lake and Blunn Creek; through the PUD, approximately 27,061 square feet of existing impervious cover to be removed from the CWQZ, specifically 13,890 square feet within the primary setback established along Lady Bird Lake (see PUD Land Use Plan – Exhibit C). The applicant is proposing L, Lake Commercial District, as the baseline zoning district for the PUD, with a maximum height of 200 feet. Except as requested through modifications in the PUD, the site will be subject to regulations of the Waterfront Overlay combining district. The envisioned PUD proposal will seek twenty-two modifications from Land Development Code (see Proposed Code Modifications – Exhibit D). The applicant has stated in the submittal materials that the project will meet all of the applicable Tier One PUD development standards, Tier One Additional Requirements and offer elements of superiority in six Tier 2 categories (Open Space/Parkland; Environmental/Drainage; Community Amenities; Great Streets; Accessibility; Affordability). Therefore, they have stated that the proposed PUD will result in a superior development to that which could be …
Annual Internal Review This report covers the time period of 7/1/2024 to 6/30/2025 ___Environmental Commission__ (Official Name of Board or Commission) The Board/Commission mission statement (per the City Code) is: Per section 2-1-144(F) of the City Code, the Environmental Commission may: 1) review and analyze the policies relating to the environmental quality of the city; (2) act as an advisory board to the city council, the city manager, and the department in their efforts to oversee the protection and integrity of the natural environment; (3) promote growth management and land use planning, minimize degradation of water resources, protect downstream areas, and promote recreation opportunities and environmental awareness; and (4) advise and recommend on any issue which the commission determines necessary or advisable for the enhancement and stewardship of the urban forest both public and private. (G) The commission shall: (1) assist the city council, the city manager, and the department in studying, promoting and enforcing environmental protection policies to assure the health, safety, welfare and quality of life of all citizens within the City's incorporated boundaries as well as those within its extraterritorial jurisdiction where the boundaries apply; and (2) oversee the development and implementation of a comprehensive plan for the planting, maintenance, and replacement of trees in the City's jurisdiction, and revise the plan as necessary. When a portion of the plan has been developed and established, it shall be submitted to the city council for adoption before implementation. (H) 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, including those that relate to or affect: Annual Review and Work Plan 2024-2025 Page 2 (1) water quality: (a) watershed protection; (b) urban runoff; (c) innovative wastewater treatment; (d) regional wastewater treatment; (e) improvement and protection of the Colorado River and the Edwards Aquifer; and (f) wastewater irrigation; (2) growth management and land use planning: (a) municipal utility district review; (b) capital improvement project review; and (c) the comprehensive plan; (3) construction controls for erosion and sedimentation; (4) City environmental policies regarding monitoring and enforcement; (5) solid waste disposal plan alternatives; (6) watershed protection: (a) flood control; (b) erosion control; (c) water quality; and (d) utility management; (7) roadway planning; (8) beautification; (9) recreation resources; (10) public education on environmental matters; (11) hazardous waste materials management; (12) …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250806-002 Date: August 6, 2025 Subject: RBI Austin Youth Development Complex, SP-2022-0567C Location: 7401 Loyola Lane, Austin, TX Motion by: Jennifer Bristol Seconded by: David Sullivan WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the applicant is requesting: • Request to vary from LDC 25-8-261(G) to allow floodplain modification within a Critical Water Quality Zone; • Request to vary from LDC 25-8-263 to allow floodplain modification outside of a Critical Water Quality Zone that is in good floodplain health condition; • Request to vary from LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut up to 8 feet; • Request to vary from LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill up to 8 feet. WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the site is located in Walnut Creek Watershed, Suburban Classification Desired Development Zone; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes that Staff recommends the variance with the following conditions: • Provide 1.55 acres of floodplain restoration • Provide 4.13 acres of floodplain mitigation • Pay $312,625.84 into the Riparian Zone Mitigation Fund • Place 4.74 acres of floodplain and 3.80 acres of environmentally sensitive land into conservation easement • Provide 0.63 acres of wildflower meadow in detention ponds • Provide an additional 0.62 acres of restoration within the conservation easement, outside of the floodplain THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends the variance request with the following Environmental Commission conditions: • Dark Sky lighting for outdoor sport centers that also includes being on a timer that automatically goes off no later than 10:00 pm to reduce light pollution to adjacent neighborhoods. • Reduce leaching from the field as best as possible through retention structures and water quality • Utilized Blackland prairie mix in seeding along the roadway for restoration • Develop an emergency evacuation plan, with special attention given to participants who require ADA accommodation 1 VOTE 8-1 For: Isabella Changsut, Justin Fleury, Jennifer Bristol, Martin Luecke, Annie Fierro, David Sullivan, Ashika Ganguly, and Rick Brimer Against: Mariana Krueger Abstain: None Recuse: None Absent: Hanna Cofer, Haris Qureshi Approved By: Jennifer Bristol, Environmental Commission Chair 2
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, August 6, 2025 The Environmental Commission convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Bristol called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Jennifer Bristol, Isabella Changsut, Justin Fleury, Annie Fierro, Martin Luecke, David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Richard Brimer, Ashika Ganguly, Mariana Krueger Commissioners Absent: Hanna Cofer, Haris Qureshi PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on July 2nd, 2025 and the Special Called Meeting on July 16th, 2025 The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on July 2, 2025 and Special Called meeting on July 16, 2025 were approved on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Changsut and Ganguly were off the dais. Commissioners Cofer and Qureshi were absent. PUBLIC HEARINGS 2. Name: RBI Austin Youth Development Complex, SP-2022-0567C Applicant: Katherine Lauer, 9442 N Capital of Texas Hwy, Plaza I, Suite 340, Austin, TX, 78759 Location: 7401 Loyola Lane, Austin, TX Council District: District 1 Staff: Eric Brown, Environmental Scientist Senior, 512-797-3139 1 Eric.brown@austintexas.gov Watershed Protection Department and Mike McDougal, Environmental Policy Program Manager, 512-974-6380 mike.mcdougal@austintexas.gov Development Services Department Applicant request: Variance request is as follows: a. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-261(G) to allow floodplain modification within a CWQZ; b. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-263 to allow floodplain modification outside of a CWQZ that is in good floodplain health condition; c. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut up to 8 feet; and d. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill up to 8 feet. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommended with conditions Speakers: Eric Brown, WPD Mohamad Abdulkader, Amanda Swor, on behalf of the applicant Matt Price, Founder of RBI Liz Johnston, WPD John Clement, WPD Johnathon McGee, Garza A motion to close the public hearing passed on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second, on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Cofer and Qureshi were absent. A motion to recommend the RBI Austin Youth Development Complex, SP-2022- 0567C, with conditions passed on Commissioner Bristol’s motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second on an 8–1 vote. Commissioner Krueger voted against. Commissioners Cofer and Qureshi were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation of Development Assessment Report for 600 East Riverside Drive, located at 600 and 600 ½ East Riverside Drive, CD-2025-0001 …
Special Called Meeting of the Environmental Commission July 16th, 2025 at 6:00 PM Permitting And Development Center, Events Center, Room 1405 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Environmental Commission will be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Elizabeth Funk, Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov, no later than noon, the day before the meeting. The following information is required: speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, email address and telephone number (must be the same number that will be used to call into the meeting). CURRENT COMMISSIONERS Haris Qureshi Justin Fleury Mariana Krueger, Vice Chair Martin Luecke Hanna Cofer, Secretary Ashika Ganguly Annie Fierro Jennifer Bristol, Chair David Sullivan Richard Brimer Isabella Changsut CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 5 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. STAFF BRIEFINGS 1. 2. Staff briefing on Robert’s Rules and general commission procedures – Elizabeth Funk, Program Coordinator, Watershed Protection Department Staff briefing on best practices for Environmental Commission recommendations – Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Department DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discuss goals and objectives for the Environmental Commission 2025-2026 year – Environmental Commission Chair Jennifer Bristol 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. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Elizabeth 512-568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov; for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. Protection Department, Funk, Watershed at For more information on the Environmental Commission, please contact Elizabeth Funk, Watershed Protection Department, at 512-568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov.
Roberts Rules 101 Agenda • Quick overview of the Boards and Commissions structure • Environmental Commission purview/mission • TOMA • Roberts Rules 101 • Procedural Rules • Types of items on an agenda 2 Boards and Commissions Advisory boards Sovereign Boards • Make recommendations to Council • Exercise independent authority and • Tasked with issues and concerns of the public, exploring possible options, providing feedback and recommendations to Council EX: Environmental Commission and Parks and Recreation Commission make decisions • Established by federal law, state law or City Charter • Includes Land Use Commissions: • Planning Commission • Zoning and Platting Commission 3 Environmental Commission Act in an advisory capacity on all projects and programs which affect the quality of life for the citizens of Austin. See Section 2-1-144 of the City Code for additional duties. 4 The commission shall: 1. Review all variances to requirements for water quality protection; 2. Review the monitoring of storm water runoff in developed and undeveloped areas; 3. Review the efficiency of existing and proposed structural and nonstructural water quality controls; 4. Periodically review the effectiveness of Chapter 25-4 (Subdivision); 5. Review waste treatment permits within the city's extraterritorial jurisdiction; 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. Review programs and policies for flood control, erosion control, and water quality; Review capital improvement projects; Review municipal utility district proposals and amendments; Review roadway plan amendments; Recommend urban runoff standards; Review the environmental elements of planned unit developments. 5 6 Watershed Protection Dept Mission Watershed Protection protects lives, property and the environment of our community by reducing the impact of flooding, erosion and water pollution. See organization chart here. 7 • Community Tree Preservation • Environmental Inspection • Environmental Review See org chart here. 8 TOMA Texas Open Meetings Act • State Law states that when a quorum of a governmental body is in attendance and that body discusses public business, the meeting must follow certain guidelines • Agenda must be posted 72 hours in advance of the meeting • Only subjects listed on the posted agenda be considered for that meetin • A simple majority (6 members) must be present or visible and audible (if attending online) • Avoid walking quorum and a daisy-chain quorum 9 Roberts Rules Main Motion • A motion must be made and seconded to initiate discussion on an issue posted for action Amendments • Additions that doesn’t change the meaning of …
Recommended with Conditions Finding of Facts and Conditional Approvals Presented to Environmental Commission on 7/16/2025 Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer WPD EV Commission Recommendations Application types require distinct considerations • Land Use Commission Variances = Findings of Fact • Planned Unit Developments (PUDs) = Tier 1 & Tier 2 Superiority Items • MUDs = Extraordinary Community Benefits • Restrictive Covenant Amendments = Zoning laws apply • Save Our Springs site specific amendments = No code defined considerations. Water quality impacts are most important. Land Use Commission Variances • Land Use Commission (LUC) Variances occur when either Zoning and Platting or Planning Commission must approve the variance after receiving a recommendation from Environmental Commission • Variances are necessary when a proposed project cannot comply with the Land Development Code (LDC) • Environmental variances may be requested from any code requirement in 25-8 except 25-8 Article 13 Save Our Springs • Other code sections may require different variance processes. • Ex: Zoning variances are heard by the Board of Adjustment unless otherwise described • The LDC allows certain variances to be approved administratively (staff approved) Variance Approval Process • Both staff and applicant create separate versions of the Findings of Fact – submitted as backup with each variance • EVC may accept or reject staff’s recommendations • Recommended disapprovals should have a basis in not meeting one of the findings • PC & ZAP are the Land Use Commissions (LUCs) that hear environmental variances • Cases located in a neighborhood planning area are heard by Planning Commission. All others are heard by the Zoning and Platting Commission. • LUC issues final decision. • EVC variances have no appeals. Land Use Commission Variances FINDINGS OF FACT Land Development Code § 25-8-41 § 25-8-41 LAND USE COMMISSION VARIANCES (A) It is the applicant's burden to establish that the findings described in this Section have been met. Except as provided in Subsections (B) and (C), the Land Use Commission may grant a variance from a requirement of this subchapter after determining that: (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; (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; …
