1 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MOTION 20211006 003a Date: October 6, 2021 Seconded by: Rick Brimer Subject: 305 South Congress Planned Unit Development, C814-89-0003.02 Motion by: Kevin Ramberg RATIONALE: WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the applicant is requesting amendment to existing Planned Unit Development (PUD) from 1989; WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the proposed PUD would require six environmental code modifications as noted in the staff presentation; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission also recognizes that staff considers the current proposal as not environmentally superior and thus not recommended. However, staff would recommend the PUD amendment, if fifteen staff conditions were met. THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission does not recommend the requested amendment to the existing PUD at this time. However, the Commission recommends staff continue to work with the applicant to negotiate unresolved superiority items, Environmental Commission concerns and staff concerns. In the future, the Environmental Commission may recommend the PUD amendment with the following: 1. Section 25-2-1176(A)(1) is modified to allow construction of the pier and boardwalk to extend up to 70' from the shoreline. Section 25-2-1176(A)(4) is modified to exceed the allowed 20% of the shoreline. 2. 3. Section 25-8-63(11)(a)(IV) is modified to allow the project to exceed 15% of site area allowed by code. 4. Section 25-8-261 and the ECM is modified to allow development within the Critical Water Quality Zone that is in accordance with the PUD Land Use Plan and Open Space Plan. This includes vegetation filter strips, rain gardens, bio-filtration ponds, stormwater outfall structures, park improvements including hard surface trails, bicycle trails, picnic facilities, playscapes, concessions including food and beverage vendors, bicycle rentals, sports equipment rentals, boat rentals, dining facilities, performance and special event facilities, boardwalks, sidewalks, pavilions, gazeboes, restrooms, exercise equipment and courses, beach lawn with steps into the water, boat landings, piers, rail station, stream bank stabilization and other similar facilities. Capping impervious cover at 24.5%. Only 5% allowed by code for development within the CWQZ and only 15% is allowed by the Waterfront Overlay. 5. Section 25-8-261(H) is modified to allow green stormwater quality controls (as defined by ECM) within 50 feet of the shoreline of Lady Bird Lake and within the 100-year floodplain. 6. Section 25-8-367 is modified to allow the administrative approval of the steps on the shoreline as opposed to seeking Council approval as required by code. Staff Conditions: 1. Except for items listed in the amended ordinance, the PUD will …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MOTION 20211006 002b Date: October 6, 2021 Subject: Village of Webberville request for release of Austin ETJ Motion by: Kevin Ramberg Seconded by: Perry Bedford RATIONALE: WHEREAS, the Village of Webberville, at the request of a property owner, has requested the release of approximately 31 acres of the City of Austin’s extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) to be included in Webberville’s ETJ; WHEREAS, the proposed release area is fully in the Colorado River floodplain and the environmental protections for the area would be comparable to the City of Austin; WHEREAS, the release will place the whole property under Webberville regulations and in so doing would streamline and simplify the development review process; and WHEREAS, the release area is not feasible for long-term annexation, being 4.5 miles from the City’s full purpose jurisdiction. THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends approval of the release of approximately 31 acres of Austin ETJ to the Village of Webberville. For: Bedford, Qureshi, Thompson, Barrett Bixler, Ramberg, Coyne, Bristol, and Guerrero Against: Brimer Abstain: Scott Recuse: None Absent: None VOTE 8-1 Approved By: Linda Guerrero, Environmental Commission Chair
1. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, October 6, 2021 The Environmental Commission convened in a public meeting on Wednesday, October 6, 2021 at City Hall in Council Chambers at 301 W. 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701. Commissioners attending in person: Perry Bedford Haris Qureshi Rick Brimer Kevin Ramberg Katie Coyne Jennifer Bristol Linda Guerrero Rachel Scott Commissioner attending remotely: Audrey Barrett Bixler Pam Thompson Staff in Attendance: Kaela Champlin Kate Clark Sara Hartley Scott Grantham Liz Johnston Andrei Lubmudrov Atha Phillips Jerry Rusthoven CALL TO ORDER Vice Chair Coyne called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M. CITIZEN COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Speakers should sign up to speak prior to the meeting being called to order; you will receive a three-minute allotment to discuss topics not posted on the agenda. Speakers Paul Barnes APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND ACTION a. Approval of the September 15, 2021 Environmental Commission Regular Meeting Minutes (5 minutes) A motion to approve the minutes of the September 15, 2021 Environmental Commission Meeting was approved on Commissioner Ramberg’s motion, 1 2. Commissioner Bristol’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Barret Bixler, Guerrero, and Scott were off the dais. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION a. Introduction with Councilwoman Fuentes and flood resilience priorities (25 minutes) Item conducted as posted. No action taken. b. Briefing on the Village of Webberville’s request to release approximately 31 acres of Austin’s extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) to be included in Webberville's ETJ— Andrei Lubomudrov, Senior Planner, Housing and Planning Department (30 minutes) Speakers Richard Mathias A motion to close the public hearing was approved on Commissioner Bedford’s motion and Commissioner Ramberg’s second on a 10-0 vote. A motion to approve the ETJ release was approved on Commissioner Ramberg’s motion, Commissioner Bedford’s second on a 8-1 vote. Those voting aye were Commissioners Bedford, Qureshi, Thompson, Barret Bixler, Guerrero, Ramberg, and Bristol. Commissioner Brimer voted nay. Commissioner Scott abstained. 3. PUBLIC HEARINGS a. Name: 305 South Congress Planned Unit Development (PUD), C814-89-0003.02 Applicant: Richard Suttle, Armbrust & Brown, PLLC Location: 305 South Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas 78704 Council District: District 9 Environmental Review Staff: Atha Phillips, Environmental Program Manager, Watershed Protection Department Zoning Case Manager: Kate Clark, Senior Planner, Housing and Planning Department Watershed: Colorado River Basin Request: To amend the current PUD Staff Recommendation: Current proposal is not recommended but staff recommend with the conditions attached in backup materials. (1 hour) Commissioner Coyne recused on Item …
2. Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission September 15, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001 301 W. 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Environmental Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live COMMISSIONERS: Haris Qureshi (D-1) Rachel Scott (D-2) Pam Thompson (D-3) Katie Coyne (D-4) Vice Chair Jennifer Bristol (D-7) Kevin Ramberg (D-8) Vacant (D-6) Audrey Barrett Bixler (D-5) Linda Guerrero (D-9) Chair _________________________________________________________________________________ Richard Brimer (D-10) Perry Bedford (Mayor) Secretary Agenda CALL TO ORDER CITIZEN COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION UPDATES a. Update on Brodie Oaks Planned Unit Development (PUD)—Liz Johnston, Deputy Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Department (10 minutes) APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND ACTION a. Approval of the August 25, 2021 Environmental Commission Special Called Meeting Minutes and the September 1, 2021 Environmental Commission Regular Meeting Minutes (5 minutes) 1 3. BRIEFINGS a. Update on the Watershed Protection Strategic Plan—Andrea Bates, Watershed Planning Manager and Sari Albornoz, Community Engagement Planner, Watershed Protection Department (1 hour) 4. COMMITTEE REPORTS and Linda Guerrero a. Urban Forestry Committee –Pam Thompson, Richard Brimer, Audrey Barrett Bixler, b. Report on the Joint Sustainability Committee – Katie Coyne c. Report on the Balcones Canyonlands Conservation Plan Citizen’s Advisory Committee – Kevin Ramberg d. Report on the Joint Committee of the Environmental Commission and Parks and Recreation Board –Linda Guerrero and Pam Thompson e. Report on the South Central Waterfront Advisory Board – Linda Guerrero 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 before the meeting date. Please call Kaela Champlin at Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 974-3443 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Environmental Commission, please contact Kaela Champlin, Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 974-3443. * A member of the public may not address a board or commission at a meeting on an item posted as a briefing, per City Code Section 2-1-144(E). …
Watershed Protection Strategic Plan Environmental Commission September 15, 2021 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 Watershed Protection Department 2 MISSION The Watershed Protection Department (WPD) protects lives, property, and the environment of our community by reducing the impact of flooding, erosion, and water pollution. 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 3 Watershed Protection Strategic Plan N I T S U A F O Y T I C GUIDING BLUEPRINT FOR DEPARTMENT – Sets goals and objectives – Establishes method to prioritize problems – Creates a process for evaluating solutions EVALUATION FRAMEWORK Provides framework for evaluating future programs, projects, and regulations and measuring success of current portfolio COMMUNICATION TOOL Helps explain WPD’s work and priorities to staff, City executives, policymakers, and Austin community 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 N I T S U A F O Y T I C 4 Plan History & Update • Watershed Protection Master Plan adopted in 2001 – Gathered public input via Citizen’s Advisory Group, phone survey, and public meetings • • Last major update completed in 2014 – Updated data/methods used for prioritizing problems – No new updates to public input or goals/objectives It's time for an update to: – Learn about the community's values – Re-evaluate the plan's guiding principles – Update goals, objectives, & prioritization methods – Set targets and create systems to track progress • Build on what we’ve heard – Watershed Protection Ordinance – Green Infrastructure Working Group – Flood Mitigation Task Force W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 5 Goals for Update REFLECT COMMUNITY VALUES • Reflect goals, priorities, knowledge, and experience of community, staff, and stakeholders INCORPORATE EQUITY AND CLIMATE RESILIENCE • Advance racial equity in all department operations, resulting in …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, September 15, 2021 The Environmental Commission convened in a public meeting on Wednesday, September 15, 2021 with Social Distancing Modifications via remote video conferencing. Commissioners attending in person: Perry Bedford Haris Qureshi Rachel Scott Audrey Barrett Bixler Rick Brimer Kevin Ramberg Katie Coyne Commissioners attending remotely: Jennifer Bristol Linda Guerrero Pam Thompson Commissioners Absent: None Staff in Attendance: Sari Albornoz Andrea Bates Kaela Champlin Sara Hartley Matt Hollon Liz Johnston Jorge Morales Erin Wood CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Coyne called the meeting to order at 6:04 P.M. CITIZEN COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. Speakers Craig Nazor 1 1. 2. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION UPDATES a. Update on Brodie Oaks Planned Unit Development (PUD)—Liz Johnston, Deputy Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Department (10 minutes) Item conducted as posted. No action taken. APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND ACTION a. Approval of the August 25, 2021 Environmental Commission Special Called Meeting Minutes and the September 1, 2021 Environmental Commission Regular Meeting Minutes (5 minutes) A motion to approve the August 25, 2021 Environmental Commission Special Called Meeting Minutes and the September 1, 2021 Environmental Commission Regular Meeting Minutes was approved on Commissioner Ramberg’s motion, Commissioner Barrett Bixler’s second on a 10-0 vote. 3. BRIEFINGS a. Update on the Watershed Protection Strategic Plan—Andrea Bates, Watershed Planning Manager and Sari Albornoz, Community Engagement Planner, Watershed Protection Department (1 hour) Item conducted as posted. No action taken. 4. COMMITTEE REPORTS and Linda Guerrero a. Urban Forestry Committee –Pam Thompson, Richard Brimer, Audrey Barrett Bixler, b. Report on the Joint Sustainability Committee – Katie Coyne c. Report on the Balcones Canyonlands Conservation Plan Citizen’s Advisory Committee – Kevin Ramberg d. Report on the Joint Committee of the Environmental Commission and Parks and Recreation Board –Linda Guerrero and Pam Thompson e. Report on the South Central Waterfront Advisory Board – Linda Guerrero FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Commissioner Guerrero requested a briefing about the issues raised by Dr. Craig Nazor regarding the McKalla site and Little Walnut Creek. ADJOURNMENT Commissioner Coyne adjourned the meeting at 8:12 P.M. 2 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 …
2. 3. Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission September 1, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. City Hall Council Chambers, 301 W. 2nd Street Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Environmental Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live COMMISSIONERS: Haris Qureshi (D-1) Rachel Scott (D-2) Pam Thompson (D-3) Katie Coyne (D-4) Vice Chair Jennifer Bristol (D-7) Kevin Ramberg (D-8) Vacant (D-6) Audrey Barrett Bixler (D-5) Linda Guerrero (D-9) Chair _________________________________________________________________________________ Richard Brimer (D-10) Perry Bedford (Mayor) Secretary Agenda CALL TO ORDER CITIZEN COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION UPDATES a. Update on Climate Equity Plan—Liz Johnston, Deputy Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Department (5 minutes) APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND ACTION a. Approval of the August 18, 2021 Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes (5 minutes) BRIEFINGS a. Update on Northwest Park Dam Maintenance and Modernization project—Annabell Ulary, Engineer B and Pam Kearfott, Supervising Engineer, Watershed Protection Department (30 minutes) 1 4. b. Update on Watershed Protection Department Equity Initiative—Nikki Fowler, Kelly Gagnon, Victor Nelms, Jorge Morales, Janna Renfro, and Ramesh Swaminathan, Watershed Protection Department (30 minutes) ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION a. Update and request for recommendation of support for the Waterloo Greenway Creek Delta Project—Diana Wang, Project Manager, Watershed Protection Department (30 minutes) 5. COMMITTEE REPORTS and Linda Guerrero a. Urban Forestry Committee –Pam Thompson, Richard Brimer, Audrey Barrett Bixler, b. Report on the Joint Sustainability Committee – Katie Coyne c. Report on the Balcones Canyonlands Conservation Plan Citizen’s Advisory Committee – Kevin Ramberg d. Report on the Joint Committee of the Environmental Commission and Parks and Recreation Board –Linda Guerrero and Pam Thompson e. Report on the South Central Waterfront Advisory Board – Linda Guerrero 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 before the meeting date. Please call Kaela Champlin at Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 974-3443 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Environmental Commission, please …
Shoal Creek – Northwest Park Dam Maintenance and Modernization Project Environmental Commission September 1, 2021 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 Pam Kearfott, PE, CFM Annabell Ulary, PE, CFM Dam Safety: Program Overview 3 3 d a m s i n Au s t i n r e g u l a t e d by TC E Q * Height Volume Downstream Risk TC E Q s a f e t y r e q u i r e m e n t s Structural stability Ability to safely pass % of PMF (Probable Maximum Flood) • W P D m a n a g e s D a m S a f e t y P ro g r a m Inspections Emergency Action Plans Routine maintenance and repairs CIP projects for modernization & large repairs • • • • • • • • • • • 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 * Texas Commission on Environmental Quality Northwest Park Dam and Regional Detention Facility 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 Northwest Park Dam and Regional Detention Facility: How it Works * 100-year Floodplain Shoal Creek Top of Dam Inflow Spillway 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 Northwest Park Dam and Regional Detention Facility: How it Works Creek side 100-year Floodplain Shoal Creek Top of Dam Inflow Spillway Outfall Pipe 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 …
Waterloo Greenway Creek Delta Project Update City of Austin Environmental Commission Meeting September 1, 2021 1 Agenda 1. Waterloo Greenway Program Overview 2. Creek Delta Project Update 3. Gain feedback and request recommendation of support for the Creek Delta Project 2 Program Overview Sponsoring City Departments: Watershed Protection Department & Parks and Recreation Department Private Non-Profit Partner: Waterloo Greenway Conservancy 4 Waterloo Park Opened August 14, 2021 6 7 Creek Delta • • • • Located along Waller Creek between Lady Bird Lake and 4th Street Identified in Council- approved Waller Creek Design Plan Approximate 10-acre project area. Creek restoration, 1 mile of new trails, pedestrian bridges, water quality and utility improvements Preparing 100% construction documents, anticipated by December 2021 9 10 Functional Assessment of Ecosystems 11 Environmental Goals Functional Assessment (Environmental Criteria Manual) Sustainable SITES Certification • • • Water Quality - Biofiltration Pond and Inline Stormwater Treatment • Trees o Vegetation and Soil Protection Zones o Enhanced tree mitigation and planting 12 13 Elevated Walkway + Bridges 2 3 1 *Lattice Bridge 3 is currently an add/bid alternate. * 14 Elevated Walkway + Bridges 15 Elevated Walkway + Bridges 16 Elevated Walkway + Bridges 17 The Spring 18 The Spring 19 Cypress Grove + Trailhead Plaza 20 Cypress Grove + Trailhead Plaza Creek Delta Schedule Design Phase Briefings: ESB-MACC Board, EV Commission, PARB, Design Commission, Waller Creek LGC. Seek conditional use approval from Planning Commission Bidding & Construction Complete 100% construction documents by end of 2021 January-November 2021 Bid project early 2022 Construction begins summer 2022 Funding Sources • Waller Creek Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) #17 • Watershed Protection - Drainage Utility Fund Riparian Mitigation Zone Fund - - Urban Structural Control Fund Parks & Recreation - - • 2012 General Obligation Bond Parkland Dedication and Mitigation Fees • Waterloo Greenway Conservancy Private Donations • Developer Agreementsloper Agreements • Other COA Department Contributions: • Austin Energy • Austin Water • Austin Convention Center 23 THANK YOU! Parks & Recreation Lana Denkeler: lana.denkeler@austintexas.gov Watershed Protection Diana Wang: diana.wang@austintexas.gov (512) 974-7168 Waterloo Greenway Chris Perkes: cperkes@waterloogreenway.org
Watershed Protection Department Equity Initiative Update September 1, 2021 Nikki Fowler, Kelly Gagnon, Jorge Morales, Victor Nelms, Janna Renfro, Ramesh Swaminathan Definitions • City of Austin Equity Initiative: Why we lead with race • How equity applies to Watershed operations 1992 photo of petroleum storage tank farm and adjacent homes in East Austin Photo credit: Osbourne, Heather. Austin American Statesman. Source: City of Austin State of Our Environment Report, 2021 2 A Strategic Approach • Racial Equity Tools • Data to develop strategies & drive results • Shared analysis & definitions • Urgency/Prioritize • Names the history • Dedication to transformation • • Partnerships: Internal & External Internal Infrastructure Source: Government Alliance on Race and Equity (GARE), Communications Guide, 2018 3 Normalize • Shared analysis & definitions • Urgency/Prioritize • Name the history • Analyzing Power • Gatekeeping • • • Networking Learning from History Identifying Manifestations of Racism • DATA • PRIORITIZATION • ENGAGEMENT • INTERNAL EQUITY 4 Organize • Dedication to transformation • • Partnerships: Internal & External Internal Infrastructure Watershed Protection Department Employee Demographics Source: WPD Department Demographic Data, Jan 2021 49% 48% 29% 13% 7% 2% 29% 13% 4% 5% 28% 47% 19% 1% 5% Asian 65% 14% 8% 7% 5% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% City of Austin (US Census) Watershed Protection Department 332 staff Field Operations Division 150 staff (45%) Other Divisions 182 staff (55%) White Hispanic/Latinx Black or African American All Other Categories 5 Operationalize: Informal 6 Operationalize: Formal • Hiring practices • New FTE to lead Equity Initiative in FY22 • Budget for equity-related trainings • Core curriculum for department leadership Photo source: https://pisab.org/undoing-racism-community-organizing-workshop/ 7 Listen, Learn, and Repeat: Internal Watershed Protection Department Citywide 84% 73% 72% 67% 62% 68% 65% 63% 59% 59% 90% 85% 80% 75% 70% 65% 60% 55% 50% 45% 90% 85% 80% 75% 70% 65% 60% 55% 50% 45% 2018 2019 2018 2019 65.72% 60.45% 56.16% 52.52% 49.95% 67.35% 63.69% 55.77% 55.68% 53.68% Valuable to Discuss Impacts of Race Leadership Supports Discussion of Race Dept. Committed to Racial Equity Dept. Taken Steps to Reduce Racial Inequity Comfortable Talking About Race Source: Listening to the Workforce Survey Results, City of Austin Equity Action Team Dashboard, 2020 https://app.smartsheet.com/b/publish?EQBCT=abc25cbc68c041249aa79dab1d9253ae 8 Listen, Learn, and Repeat: External Apply framework to how we work with the community Expanding community engagement networks Updating the Watershed Protection …
1 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MOTION 20210901 004a Date: September 1, 2021 Seconded by: Perry Bedford Subject: Waterloo Greenway Creek Delta Project Motion by: Katie Coyne RATIONALE: WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the City of Austin and Waterloo Conservancy’s work to enhance the Waterloo Greenway Creek Delta; which will improve both the local ecological function of the delta, as well as provide more opportunities for people to connect with nature in downtown Austin. WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes this project will pursue and attain a Sustainable SITES Certification. THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends City Council’s approval of the Waterloo Greenway Creek Delta Project. VOTE 8-0 For: Bedford, Qureshi, Scott, Thompson, Barrett Bixler, Coyne, Guerrero, and Brimer Against: None Abstain: None Recuse: Ramberg Absent: Bristol Approved By: Linda Guerrero, Environmental Commission Chair
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, September 1, 2021 The Environmental Commission convened in a public meeting on Wednesday, September 1, 2021 with Social Distancing Modifications via remote video conferencing. Commissioners in Attendance: Perry Bedford Haris Qureshi Rachel Scott Pam Thompson Audrey Barrett Bixler Rick Brimer Kevin Ramberg Katie Coyne Linda Guerrero Commissioners Absent: Jennifer Bristol Staff in Attendance: Pamela Abee-Taulli Kaela Champlin Nikki Fowler Kelly Gagnon Liz Johnston Pam Kearfott Mike Kelly Jorge Morales Victor Nelms Darcy Nuffer Janna Renfro Mateo Scoggins Lee Shermann Lisa Storer Ramesh Swaminathan Annabell Ulary Diana Wang CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Coyne called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M. 1 CITIZEN COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. None 1. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION UPDATES a. Update on Climate Equity Plan—Liz Johnston, Deputy Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Department (5 minutes) Item conducted as posted. No action taken. 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND ACTION a. Approval of the August 18, 2021 Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes (5 minutes) A motion to approve the minutes of the August 18, 2021 Environmental Commission Meeting was approved on Commissioner Guerrero’s motion, Commissioner Ramberg’s second on a 7-0 vote. Bedford abstained. Commissioner Qureshi was off the dais. Commissioner Bristol was absent. 3. 4. BRIEFINGS a. Update on Northwest Park Dam Maintenance and Modernization project—Annabell Ulary, Engineer B and Pam Kearfott, Supervising Engineer, Watershed Protection Department (30 minutes) Item conducted as posted. No action taken. b. Update on Watershed Protection Department Equity Initiative—Nikki Fowler, Kelly Gagnon, Victor Nelms, Jorge Morales, Janna Renfro, and Ramesh Swaminathan, Watershed Protection Department (30 minutes) Item conducted as posted. No action taken. Commissioner Coyne called a recess at 8:12 P.M. Commissioner called the meeting back to order at 8:23 PM ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION a. Update and request for recommendation of support for the Waterloo Greenway Creek Delta Project—Diana Wang, Project Manager, Watershed Protection Department (30 minutes) A motion to recommend support for the Waterloo Greenway Creek Delta Project was approved on Commissioner Coyne’s motion, Commissioner Bedford’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Ramberg recused on Item 4a. Commissioner Bristol was absent. a. Urban Forestry Committee –Pam Thompson, Richard Brimer, Audrey Barrett Bixler, 5. COMMITTEE REPORTS and Linda Guerrero b. Report on the Joint Sustainability Committee – …
Versión en español a continuación. Environmental Commission Special Called Meeting August 25, 2021 Environmental Commission to be held August 25, 2021 with Social Distancing Modifications. Public comment will be allowed via telephone; no in-person input will be allowed. All speakers must register in advance (August 24, 2021 by noon). All public comment will occur at the beginning of the meeting. To speak remotely at the August 25, 2021 Environmental Commission Special Called Meeting, members of the public must: •Call or email the board liaison Kaela Champlin, (512) 974-3443, Kaela.Champlin@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). •Once a request to speak has been made to the board liaison, the information to call on the day of the scheduled meeting will be provided either by email or phone call. •Speakers must call in at least 15 minutes prior to meeting start time in order to speak, late callers will not be accepted and will not be able to speak. •Speakers will be placed in a queue until their time to speak. •Handouts or other information may be emailed to Kaela.Champlin@austintexas.gov by noon the day before the scheduled meeting. This information will be provided to Board and Commission members in advance of the meeting. •If the meeting is broadcast live, it may be viewed here: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn- live 1 Reunión del Environmental Commission FECHA de la reunion (25 de agosto de 2021) La junta se llevará con modificaciones de distanciamiento social Se permitirán comentarios públicos por teléfono; no se permitirá ninguna entrada en persona. Todos los oradores deben registrarse con anticipación (24 de agosto de 2021 antes del mediodía). Todos los comentarios públicos se producirán al comienzo de la reunión. Para hablar de forma remota en la reunión, los miembros del público deben: • Llame o envíe un correo electrónico al enlace de la junta en Kaela Champlin, (512) 974-3443, Kaela.Champlin@austintexas.gov a más tardar al mediodía (el día antes de la reunión). Se requiere la siguiente información: nombre del orador, número (s) de artículo sobre el que desean hablar, si están a favor / en contra / neutral, dirección de correo electrónico (opcional) y un número de teléfono (debe ser el número que se …
Environmental Code and Common Variances E nv i ro n m e n t a l C o m m i s s i o n Re t r e a t Au g u s t 2 5 , 2 0 2 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 A t h a P h i l l i p s E n v i r o n m e n t a l P r o g r a m C o o r d i n a t o r W a t e r s h e d P r o t e c t i o n D e p a r t m e n t Land Development Code 25-8 Environment and the Environmental Criteria Manual 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 25-8 Environment S U B C H A P T E R A – WAT E R Q UA L I T Y Development Services Department: Land Use Review – Environmental Review Watershed Protection Department CEF and Floodplain Modification Review S U B C H A P T E R B – T R E E A N D N AT U R A L A R E A P ROT E C T I O N ; E N DA N G E R E D S P E C I E S Development Services Department: Community Tree Division Land Use Review – Environmental Review (notification of Endangered Species only) C I T Y O F A U S T I N W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 3 25-8 Environment SUB CHAPTER A – WATE R QUAL ITY • 25- 8- 211 Water Qual i ty Control Re qui rem ent • 25- 8- 261 Cri ti cal Water Qual i ty Zone D eve l …
City of Austin 2021 Environmental Commission Retreat City of Austin Tree Regulations Overview August 25, 2021 Keith Mars, AICP,CA Naomi Rotramel, City Arborist Overview • History and Values – The Austin Way • Policy and Governance – Tree Preservation Ordinances Work • Government that Works – Process and Due Diligence Matters • Austin’s Future Urban Forest The Community Tree Preservation Division: Urban Forest Program (A Healthy Urban Forest for All) Click here to see all the great work The Community Tree Preservation Division: City Arborist Program (Nationally recognized tree preservation ordinances) Tree Ordinances in Austin • First adopted in 1983 • Public health, safety, and welfare (Home Rule & Discretionary) • Preserve first then replenish • Alignment with council strategic outcomes Preserve the character of Austin’s urban forest, protect its current health, and increase it’s longevity The Value of Trees in the Urban Environment • Trees are foundational to multiple public policy objects • Trees are a $16 billion asset • Trees reduce energy cost by ~$20M/year • Trees are critical to climate and equity outcomes Our Community Values Trees • Home Rule—Tree protection is an expression of our values • Continued public support for trees and tree preservation is crucial to the future of our urban forest Does the Heritage Tree Ordinance Work? - Ordinance adopted in February 2010 - ~16 Commission variances - Over 5,000 reviews by City Arborist staff - More than 70,000 inches of Heritage Trees reviewed - 95% preservation rate. National model. Administering the Tree Ordinances (Process matters-Government that Works for All) The Larger the Tree, the Greater the Protection Review Criteria for Protected and Heritage Trees Code Criteria for Removal Rules for Protecting Trees 1. Prevents a reasonable use 2. Prevents reasonable access 3. Dead, diseased, or imminent hazard Due Process for Administering Heritage Tree Ordinance Due Diligence for Reasonable Use (Reveal the real and perceived constraints, protect more trees) Zoning Regulations • By right or up to? Zoning Regulations • By right or up to? • Use based, form based, or both? Zoning Regulations • By right or up to? • Use based, form based, or both? • Do you know the setbacks? • Parking standards. • Know your Fire Code! It has a big impact on land use and trees. • Know your driveway alignment options. Transportation Austin’s Future Urban Forest (Opportunities and challenges abound) Thank You. Questions? SETBACKS - 15' ALLOWS …
Boards & Commissions Hybrid Meeting Pilot Program Hybrid Meeting Pilot Program rules • Presiding officer & second officer must be physically present at City Hall (Chair, Vice Chair, &/Secretary) • A quorum (6 members) must be physically present • Public testimony must be in person • Staff liaisons (Kaela & Liz) will be physically present Technical requirements for remote participation • Must be clearly visible & have two-way communication throughout the entire meeting • If audio or video communication is lost for any portion of the meeting, the remote participant is considered absent during that time. COVID-19 Safety Protocols • Only 7 commission members physically present • Empty dais seats between each member when possible • Staff and visitors are required to wear masks while on City property • Disposable masks will be provided to anyone who is not wearing proper face coverings • Public attendees will be socially distanced • To limit the number of people physically present, staff presenters will attend remotely • Hand sanitizer stations throughout Council Chamber • Lysol wipes for members Preparing for Hybrid Meetings • Communication is key. Please let liaison know as soon as possible if you cannot attend a meeting, need to recuse, etc. • Fill out survey • Seven members in person • Up to four members may participate remotely • Number will change depending on absences, recusals, etc.
Refresher on Boards & Commissions rules Attendance requirements What constitutes an excused absence? • Injury or illness of a member • Illness or injury to an immediate family member • Active military service • Birth/adoption of a child (for up to 90s days after) • Must be reported in advance of the next meeting Late/partial attendance • Notify liaison in advance if you will be late or need to recuse on an item • Must be present for ¾ of the meeting & not cause the commission to break quorum on any action items • New rules require remote participants to be visible & have 2-way communication the entire meeting. Any technical issues/visibility issues may result in an unexcused absence. Meeting cancellations • If a meeting is cancelled due to lack of a quorum, unexcused absences are still counted. • A cancellation notice will be posted including: • Members that planned to attend • Absent members Attendance violations • Unexcused absences for three consecutive meetings • Missing 1/3 (seven) of all regular meetings in a 12- month timeframe • Violations are reported to the Clerk’s Office • BC Coordinator notifies the nominating Council Member of their options: • Provide an attendance waiver; or • An automatic vacancy occurs that requires a new appointment. Citizen Communication • Residents may sign up to speak on general items for three minutes discussion. • General citizen communication is not posted for • Members may ask clarifying questions only • May ask staff to report back Citizen Communication • Residents may sign up to speak on all agenda items except for Staff Briefings. • No public testimony can be made after the public hearing is closed. • Example: hearing” • Member 1: “Chair, I move to close the public • Member 2: “Second” • Chair: “All in favor, say aye (or raise your hand)” New business – Future Agenda Items • Members may include an item if: • Sponsorship is received from two or more members • Outside of a meeting, members may also request the Chair to include an item on a future agenda • Approval is at the Chair’s discretion • Copy Kaela on all requests • Will be placed on next available agenda Things to know • The City Code prohibits boards and commissions from meeting in closed session unless they have received prior approval from the city attorney. Things to know …
