1 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MOTION 20210505 003b Date: May 5, 2021 Seconded by: Katie Coyne Subject: Central Health Planned Unit Development, C814-2020-0132 Motion by: Kevin Ramberg RATIONALE: WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the applicant is requesting a to change zoning from P to PUD. WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes that staff recommends granting the requested planned unit development (PUD) district zoning, with waivers of certain threshold requirements, established site development standards, land uses, and Code modifications as outlined on backup information provided for this meeting. THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends granting PUD district zoning for the site in accordance with the waivers and conditions provided in backup with the following Environmental Commission Condition: 1. The Environmental Commission requests the applicant increase, to the maximum extent practicable, their Austin Energy Green Building Rating to 3 or greater and integrate Functional Green principles where available. VOTE 8-0 Approved By: For: Bedford, Thompson, Brimer, Coyne, Ramberg, Barrett Bixler, Bristol, and Guerrero Against: None Abstain: None Recuse: None Absent: Creel Linda Guerrero, Environmental Commission Chair
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, May 5, 2021 The Environmental Commission convened in a public meeting on Wednesday, May 5, 2021 with Social Distancing Modifications via remote video conferencing. Commissioners in Attendance: Pam Thompson Katie Coyne Kevin Ramberg Linda Guerrero Perry Bedford Audrey Barrett Bixler Rick Brimer Jennifer Bristol Commissioners Absent: Andrew Creel Staff in Attendance: Kaela Champlin Chris Herrington Liz Johnston Jerry Rusthoven Lisa Killander Keith Mars CALL TO ORDER Chair Guerrero called the meeting to order at 6:02 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. None 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND ACTION a. Approval of the April 21, 2021 Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes (5 minutes) The minutes of the April 21, 2021 Environmental Commission Meeting were approved on Commissioner Ramberg’s motion, Commissioner Coyne’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Creel was absent. Commissioner Thompson was off the dais. 1 2. 3. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION a. PM2.5 Emissions Reduction Plan—Phoebe Romero, Environmental Program Coordinator, Office of Sustainability and Christiane Alepuz, Capital Area Council of Governments Regional Planning and Services Program Coordinator (30 minutes) A motion to recommend updating the region’s voluntary air quality plan to include additional measures targeted at reducing regional PM2.5 air pollution and enhancing awareness of PM air pollution was approved on Commissioner Ramberg’s motion, Commissioner Bedford’s second on a 8-0 vote. Commissioner Creel was absent. PUBLIC HEARINGS a. Consider a request from a private property owner, Patrick Fulker to appeal the Urban Forester’s denial of application for an administrative approval, as provided for in City Code Section 6-3-91, to remove public trees located at 13213 Villa Park Drive, Austin, Texas 78729 (30 minutes) A motion to close the public hearing was approved on Commissioner Ramberg’s motion, Commissioner Thompson’s second on a 8-0 vote. A motion to deny Patrick Fulker’s appeal failed on Commissioner Ramberg’s motion, Commissioner Guerrero’s second on a 4-2 vote. Those voting aye were Commissioners Coyne, Ramberg, Barrett Bixler, and Guerrero. Those voting nay were Commissioners Thompson and Brimer. Those abstaining were Commissioners Bristol and Bedford. Commissioner Creel was absent. A motion to reopen the public hearing was approved unanimously on Commissioner Ramberg’s motion. A motion to close the public hearing was approved on Commissioner Guerrero’s motion, Commissioner Coyne’s …
Versión en español a continuación. Environmental Commission Regular Meeting April 21, 2021 Environmental Commission to be held April 21, 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 (April 20, 2021 by noon). All public comment will occur at the beginning of the meeting. To speak remotely at the April 21, 2021 Environmental Commission Regular 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 (21 de abril 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 (20 de abril 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 utilizará para …
Committee Chair Responsibilities Ensure compliance with City Code Ensure compliance with Texas Open Meetings Act Coordinate with staff liaison to post agendas 72 hours in advance A quorum must be present to conduct committee meetings o A quorum of the committee is at least three committee members. o No more than five commission members may attend a meeting. The EC Bylaws include all established committees and their duties. These duties must be approved by the Council Audit and Finance Committee. The Committee Chair is responsible for completing and presenting annual reports to the full Commission and filing the report with the Office of Chief Clerk and the Watershed Protection Department on or before January 31st each year. o It is the full responsibility of the Committee Chair to complete this report. The report must include the following: (1) a statement of the board’s mission and a description of the board’s actions in furtherance of that mission during the previous calendar year; and (2) the board’s goals and objectives for the new calendar year. After a meeting has been held, it is the responsibility of the committee chair to provide a report on the issues the committee is working on during the Environmental Commission Committee Reports each meeting. Meeting requirements Per City Code, committees must meet on a regularly scheduled basis at least quarterly. It is the responsibility of the Committee Chair to request these meetings to be scheduled. In order to provide adequate scheduling time and posting requirements, please comply with the following deadlines: o 3 weeks in advance, contact the liaison to schedule the meeting & notify liaison o At least 10 days before the meeting, review and approve the final agenda with of draft agenda items. the staff liaison. Committee Recommendations If a recommendation is passed during a committee meeting, provide the completed motion form to the staff liaison before the end of the committee meeting. o Writing must be complete and legible & recommendations must be read into the record during the meeting. It is important that recommendations are uploaded to the Environmental Commission website as soon as possible. Within 24 hours, the liaison will email a draft copy of the typed recommendation to the committee Chair. Respond with corrections &/signature within 24 hours if possible. Purview of Commission Chair The Environmental Commission Chair …
Updated April 2021 Environmental Commission Committee Members Committee Name Urban Growth Policy & Water Quality Protection Committee Chair Pam Thompson Urban Forestry Committee Vacant Members Perry Bedford Pam Thompson Kevin Ramberg Vacant position 4 Vacant position 5 Pam Thompson Linda Guerrero Vacant position 3 Vacant position 4 Vacant position 5 Other Committee Memberships Committee Name Joint Environmental/Parks Board Balcones Canyonlands Conservation Plan Citizen’s Advisory Committee Joint Sustainability Committee* South Central Waterfront Advisory Board* Members Linda Guerrero Pam Thompson Vacant position 3 Vacant position 4 Kevin Ramberg Katie Coyne Linda Guerrero * Member is elected by Council to serve a 2 year or 4 year term membership.
Pamela Abee-Taulli Environmental Review Specialist Senior Development Services Department BRAKER VALLEY SUBDIVISION 4806 BLUE GOOSE RD. C8-2020-0112 4/21/2021 BRAKER VALLEY C8-2020-0112 1 PROJECT LOCATION Site Location Austin ETJ Austin City Limits Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone Edwards Aquifer Contributing Zone This product is for informational purposes and may not have been prepared for or be suitable for legal, engineering, or surveying purposes. It does not represent an on-the- ground survey and represents only the approximate relative location of property boundaries. This product has been produced by the Watershed Protection Department for the sole purpose of geographic reference. No warranty is made by the City of Austin regarding specific accuracy or completeness. 4/21/2021 BRAKER VALLEY C8-2020-0112 2 0510Miles[ PROPERTY DATA • Walnut Creek Watershed • Suburban Classification • Desired Development Zone Zone • Full Purpose Jurisdiction • Critical Water Quality • Wetland Critical Environmental Feature • Council District: 1 4/21/2021 BRAKER VALLEY C8-2020-0112 3 [ DEVELOPMENT DATA • Minor CWQZ buffer 4/21/2021 BRAKER VALLEY C8-2020-0112 4 [ DEVELOPMENT DATA • Intermediate CWQZ buffer • Minimal slopes over 15% 4/21/2021 BRAKER VALLEY C8-2020-0112 5 [ DEVELOPMENT DATA • Intermediate CWQZ buffer • Minimal slopes over 15% • Wetland CEF Wetlands 4/21/2021 BRAKER VALLEY C8-2020-0112 6 [ BUFFER AVERAGING 4/21/2021 BRAKER VALLEY C8-2020-0112 7 BUFFER AVERAGING 4/21/2021 BRAKER VALLEY C8-2020-0112 8 SLOPES & GRADING 4/21/2021 BRAKER VALLEY C8-2020-0112 9 VARIANCE REQUEST 1 • Variance to 25-8-341 to cut over 4 feet to 11.26 feet. 4/21/2021 BRAKER VALLEY C8-2020-0112 10 VARIANCE REQUEST 2 • Variance to 25-8-342 to fill over 4 feet to 16.73 feet. 4/21/2021 BRAKER VALLEY C8-2020-0112 11
ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA COMMISSION MEETING DATE: April 21, 20121 NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: Braker Valley Subdivision C8-2020-0112 NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: Chris Rawls BGE, Inc. LOCATION: 4806 Blue Goose Rd., Austin, TX 78754 COUNCIL DISTRICT: District #1 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW STAFF: WATERSHED: Pamela Abee-Taulli, Environmental Review Specialist Senior, Development Services Department, 512.974.1879, pamela.abee- taulli@austintexas.gov. Walnut Creek Watershed, Suburban Classification, Desired Development Zone REQUEST: Variance request is as follows: 1. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut over four feet STAFF RECOMMENDATION: STAFF CONDITIONS: 2. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill over four feet to to 11.5 feet. 17 feet. Staff recommends these variances, having determined the findings of fact to have been met. In the two locations where roadways cross the Critical Water Quality Zone, culverts will be provided for the entire width of the half-Critical Water Quality Zone. This avoids the flow pinch-point of the single, narrow culvert originally proposed. Revegetation for all areas of the stormwater pond that are not covered by dam safety regulations will be with Standard Specifications Manual 609S Native Seeding and Planting for Restoration, using a selection of low- growing, non-woody vegetation that can be mowed. Development Services Department Staff Recommendations Concerning Required Findings Project Name: Ordinance Standard: Watershed Protection Ordinance Variance Request: Braker Valley Subdivision 1. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut over four 2. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill over four feet to 11.5 feet. feet to 17 feet. Include an explanation with each applicable finding of fact. A. Land Use Commission variance determinations from Chapter 25-8-41 of the City Code: 1. The requirement will deprive the applicant of a privilege available to owners of similarly situated property with approximately contemporaneous development subject to similar code requirements. Yes The proposed grading is of a scope that is typical in uplands areas for the construction of required stormwater control ponds. The Land Development Code does not allow grading for stormwater control measures within 100’ of a classified waterway [25-8-341(A)(4)(c) & 25-8-342(A)(4)(c)]. However, in-line wet ponds, such as the one proposed, are allowed in the CWQZ per 25-8-261(F) if designed according to the Environmental Criteria Manual (ECM). However, the Environmental Criteria Manual requires wet ponds to have a permanent pool depth of six (6) to eight (8) feet. Unless the channel has steep slopes, it is difficult to design …
Case No.: (City use only) Environmental Resource Inventory For the City of Austin Related to LDC 25-8-121, City Code 30-5-121, ECM 1.3.0 & 1.10.0 The ERI is required for projects that meet one or more of the criteria listed in LDC 25-8-121(A), City Code 30-5-121(A). 1. SITE/PROJECT NAME: Braker Valley Tract 2. COUNTY APPRAISAL DISTRICT PROPERTY ID (#’s): 236613 & 236616 3. ADDRESS/LOCATION OF PROJECT: 11105 Cameron Rd. Austin, TX 78754 4. WATERSHED: Walnut Creek Watershed 5. THIS SITE IS WITHIN THE (Check all that apply) Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone* (See note below) .................. (cid:133)YES (cid:133)No Edwards Aquifer Contributing Zone*.................................. (cid:133)YES (cid:133)No Edwards Aquifer 1500 ft Verification Zone* ....................... (cid:133)YES (cid:133)No Barton Spring Zone* .......................................................... (cid:133)YES (cid:133)No *(as defined by the City of Austin – LDC 25-8-2 or City Code 30-5-2) ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Note: If the property is over the Edwards Aquifer Recharge zone, the Hydrogeologic Report and karst surveys must be completed and signed by a Professional Geoscientist Licensed in the State of Texas. 6. DOES THIS PROJECT PROPOSE FLOODPLAIN MODIFICATION?.......(cid:133)YES** (cid:133)NO ✔ If yes, then check all that apply: (cid:13) (1) The floodplain modifications proposed are necessary to protect the public health and safety; (cid:13) (2) The floodplain modifications proposed would provide a significant, demonstrable environmental benefit, as determined by a functional assessment of floodplain health as prescribed by the Environmental Criteria Manual (ECM), or (cid:13) (3) The floodplain modifications proposed are necessary for development allowed in the critical water quality zone under LDC 25-8-261 or 25-8-262, City Code 30-5-261 or 30-5-262. (cid:13) (4) The floodplain modifications proposed are outside of the Critical Water Quality Zone in an area determined to be in poor or fair condition by a functional assessment of floodplain health. ** If yes, then a functional assessment must be completed and attached to the ERI (see ECM 1.7 and Appendix X for forms and guidance) unless conditions 1 or 3 above apply. 7. IF THE SITE IS WITHIN AN URBAN OR SUBURBAN WATERSHED, DOES THIS PROJECT PROPOSE A UTILITY LINE PARALLEL TO AND WITHIN THE CRITICAL WATER QUALITY ZONE? ......................................................... (cid:133)YES*** (cid:133)NO ✔ ***If yes, then riparian restoration is required by LDC 25-8-261(E) or City Code 30-5-261(E) and a functional assessment must be completed and attached to the ERI (see ECM1.5 and Appendix X for forms and guidance). 0 8. There is a total of (#’s) Critical Environmental Feature(s)(CEFs) on or within150 …
1076 SPRINGDALE 1076 SPRINGDALE ROAD. SP-2019-0385C Hank Marley Environmental Review Specialist Senior Development Services Department 1 PROPERTY DATA • Tannehill Branch Watershed • Urban Watershed Classification • Desired Development Zone • City of Austin Full Purpose Jurisdiction • Not located over Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone • Wetlands located on site • Council District #1 1076 Springdale NTS North 2 Vicinity Exhibit E. 12 St. & Airport Blvd. Givens District Park 1076 Springdale NTS North 3 Existing conditions 1076 Springdale NTS North 4 Variance Request • To allow development in a Critical Water Quality Zone (LDC 25-8-261) 5 Background • The site is a corner lot located at the intersection of Oak Springs Dr. and Springdale Rd. and proposes driveway connections to both urban roadways, which is comparable to many corner lot developments. • Development is limited in a Critical Water Quality Zone (CWQZ) by LDC 25-8-261. • The proposed driveway to gain access to the site from Oak Springs Drive crosses a CWQZ. 6 Existing conditions Proposed location of driveway crossing CWQZ North NTS 7 Existing conditions Proposed driveway location crossing the CWQZ NTS North 8 Proposed Site Plan Enlargement Proposed driveway crossing the CWQZ NTS North 9 Proposed Site Plan Enlargement Proposed driveway crossing the CWQZ NTS North 0 1 Background (continued) • All of the parcel’s frontage along Oak Springs drive lies within a CWQZ. The portion of the CWQZ that would be disturbed with the proposed driveway consists of mowed vegetation devoid of riparian habitat. • The driveway connection proposes to disturb approximately 475 square feet of CWQZ out of the 32,000-SF of CWQZ located on site. This is a minimum deviation from code requirements necessary to allow a reasonable use of the property. 1 1 Background (continued) • The area that drains stormwater to the section of CWQZ proposed to be disturbed by the driveway connection, currently drains over a sidewalk into the roadway, eventually entering a nearby storm inlet that flows directly into the creek. • The proposed development plans to capture this drainage area and divert it to the biofiltration rain garden water quality pond, which will result in water quality that is greater than water quality achievable without the variance. 2 1 Variance Recommendation • Staff has determined that the required findings of fact have been met and recommends the following conditions: All landscape areas and any areas disturbed during construction to be …
ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA COMMISSION MEETING DATE: April 21, 2021 NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: 1076 Springdale; SP-2019-0385C Brad Lingvai, WGI Engineering LOCATION: 1076 Springdale Rd., Austin, TX, 78721 COUNCIL DISTRICT: District # 1 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW STAFF: WATERSHED: REQUEST: STAFF RECOMMENDATION: STAFF CONDITION: Hank Marley, Environmental Review Specialist Senior, Development Services Department, 512-974-2067, hank.marley@austintexas.gov Tannehill Branch Watershed, Urban, Desired Development Zone Variance request is as follows: Request to vary from LDC 25-8-261 to allow development inside the Critical Water Quality Zone. Staff recommends this variance, having determined the findings of fact to have been met. All landscape areas and any areas disturbed during construction to be planted with native species to the Central Texas region, to be selected from the City of Austin Grow Green Manual. Development Services Department Staff Recommendations Concerning Required Findings Project Name: 1076 Springdale; SP-2019-0385C Ordinance Standard: Watershed Protection Ordinance Variance Request: To allow development inside the Critical Water Quality Zone (LDC 25-8-261). Include an explanation with each applicable finding of fact. A. Land Use Commission variance determinations from Chapter 25-8-41 of the City Code: 1. Yes The site is a corner lot located at the intersection of Oak Springs Dr. and The requirement will deprive the applicant of a privilege available to owners of similarly situated property with approximately contemporaneous development subject to similar code requirements. Springdale Rd. and proposes driveway connections to both urban roadways, which is comparable to many corner lot developments. The majority of the parcel’s frontage along Oak Springs lies with a Critical Water Quality Zone (CWQZ) (Figure 1), which coincides with the 100-year floodplain. The portion of the CWQZ that would be disturbed with the proposed driveway consists of mowed vegetation and is devoid of riparian habitat (Figure 2). The driveway connection proposes to disturb 475 square feet of CWQZ out of the 32,000-SF of CWQZ located on site. There are numerous driveways within the vicinity of this site that disturb similar square footage amounts or more within the CWQZ. 2. The variance: a) Yes 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; A driveway connection to Oak Springs is a reasonable request as it would be difficult for drivers to turn left to head north onto Springdale in this …
ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA COMMISSION MEETING DATE: NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: April 21, 2021 FM 620 and Anderson Mill RD Wastewater SER #4652 NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: Jewels Cain, Land Development Consultant, Armbrust & Brown, PLLC LOCATION: 11213 FM 620 Road, Austin, TX 78726 COUNCIL DISTRICT: Located partially in Austin’s full-purpose jurisdiction (District 6) and 2-Mile Extraterritorial Jurisdiction PROJECT FILING DATE: March 15, 2021 WPD/ENVIRONMENTAL STAFF: Kaela Champlin, Environmental Program Coordinator (512) 974-3443, kaela.champlin@austintexas.gov WATERSHED: REQUEST: STAFF DETERMINATION: Bull Creek, Water Supply Suburban, Northern Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone, Drinking Water Protection Zone Wastewater Service Extension Staff do not recommend this service extension request. MEMORANDUM April 16, 2021 Linda Guerrero, Chair, and Members of the Environmental Commission Kaela Champlin, Environmental Program Coordinator Watershed Protection Department TO: FROM: DATE: SUBJECT: FM 620 and Anderson Mill Road SER #4652 Service Extension Requests (SER) located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone and outside of the City of Austin’s full purpose jurisdiction require Council approval and review by the Environmental Commission. Watershed Protection Department staff have completed the review for FM 620 and Anderson Mill Road Wastewater SER #4652 and do not recommend approval of the request. Site Overview The site consists of a tract of approximately 34.40 acres, located at 11213 FM 620 Road. The site consists of 4 parcels; the northern three parcels consisting of 9.4 acres are located in the City of Austin’s full purpose jurisdiction and the Birden tract, a 25-acre parcel, is located in the City’s 2- Mile ETJ and is adjacent to Council District 6. The site is in the Bull Creek Watershed, Water Supply Suburban, and the Drinking Water Protection Zone, and the Northern Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone. Service Extension Requests have been made on this site previously and were not recommended by Watershed Protection Department Staff. In 2016, a wastewater service extension request (SER #3880) was made for Broadstone 620/Birden Multi-family, a proposed multifamily development with 336 units on the southern 25-acre portion of the site. The SER was considered by the Environmental Commission on November 16, 2016, and the commission recommended against approval. Subsequently, the Water and Wastewater Commission did not make a recommendation on the SER and the applicant withdrew the service extension request. The staff memo, proposed SER, and Environmental Commission recommendation are attached as Exhibit A. 1 In 2018, water and wastewater SERs #4098 and 4099 were submitted for the …
FM 620 and Anderson Mill Road Wastewater Service Extension Request #4652 Request Summary • Request for wastewater service (175 LUEs) • 34.40 acres • Proposed multi‐family development (350 units) • Partially within City’s full‐purpose jurisdiction & 2‐ Mile ETJ • Drinking Water Protection Zone (DWPZ) • Bull Creek Watershed, Water Supply Suburban • Northern Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone • Adjacent to COA Council District #6 SER #4652 SER #4652 Site Location Austin City Limits Austin ETJ Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone Edwards Aquifer Contributing Zone Site Location 2‐Mile ETJ Full Purpose Jurisdiction Limited Purpose Jurisdiction SER #4652 Description of proposed extension: • Proposing to upgrade the existing Volente Lift Station, upgrade the existing force main that serves the lift station, and upgrade the downstream gravity collection system to provide the capacity necessary to serve the proposed development. • Within Austin Water Service Area SER #4652 Proposed Wastewater Extension Option #1 Map provided by AWU SER #4652 Proposed Wastewater Extension Option #2 Map provided by AWU SER Review & Evaluation • Headwaters tributary to Bull Creek • Contains 2 springs, 1 karst recharge feature, and 4 wetlands • Contains critical water quality zone & water quality transition zone to Bull Creek SER Review & Evaluation • The site is at the headwaters of federally‐listed threatened Jollyville Plateau salamander habitat. • Through prior scientific studies, WPD biologists identified a robust population of salamanders in this tributary. • Runoff from the development would flow downstream into habitat, and thus could negatively affect that salamander population. • As the intensity of development on the site increases, the probability of harm to salamander increases. Previous Service Extension Requests • 11/16/2016: Broadstone 620/Birden Multi‐family Wastewater SER (#3880) (Parcel 0175270305, 25‐acre tract) – Proposed multifamily development with 336 units – Not recommended by Environmental Commission & Wastewater Commission • • 10/05/2018: Birden Tract Water & Wastewater SERs (#4098 & 4099) (Parcel 0175270305, 25‐acre tract) – Proposed 138 single family residences (138 LUEs) – WPD staff did not support and applicant withdrew SERs. Staff Recommendation Staff does not recommend approval. Basis for recommendation: Staff review determined that there are significant environmental risks to extend service to the site. Contact Information Kaela Champlin Watershed Protection Department City of Austin (512) 974‐3443 kaela.champlin@austintexas.gov
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MOTION 20210421 003b Date: April 21, 2021 Seconded by: Perry Bedford Subject: 1076 Springdale, SP-2019-0385C Motion by: Kevin Ramberg RATIONALE: WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the applicant is requesting a variance from LDC 25- 8-261 to allow development inside the Critical Water Quality Zone; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes that staff recommends this variance (with one condition) having determined the required Findings of Fact have been met. THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends the variance request with the following Staff Condition: 1. All landscape areas and any areas disturbed during construction will be planted with native species to the Central Texas region and will be selected from the City of Austin Grow Green Manual. VOTE 8-0 Approved By: For: Bedford, Creel, Thompson, Brimer, Coyne, Ramberg, Barrett Bixler, and Guerrero Against: None Abstain: None Recuse: None Absent: None Linda Guerrero, Environmental Commission Chair 1
1 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MOTION 20210421 003c Date: April 21, 2021 Seconded by: Pam Thompson Subject: FM 620 and Anderson Mill Road Wastewater SER #4652 Motion by: Katie Coyne RATIONALE: WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes that Service Extension Requests (SER) located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone and outside of the City of Austin’s full purpose jurisdiction require Council approval and review by the Environmental Commission; WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes that Watershed Protection Department staff have completed the review for FM 620 and Anderson Mill Road Wastewater SER #4652 and do not recommend approval of the request; WHEREAS, this site is the headwaters of Bull Creek; contains two springs, one karst recharge feature, and four wetlands; and is in the critical water quality zone & water quality transition zone to Bull Creek; WHEREAS, this site is at the headwaters of federally‐listed threatened Jollyville Plateau salamander habitat; WHEREAS, through prior scientific studies, WPD biologists identified a robust population of salamanders in this tributary; WHEREAS, the runoff from the development would flow downstream into habitat, and thus could negatively affect that salamander population; and WHEREAS, the intensity of development on the site increases, the probability of harm to salamander increases. THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends denial of the proposed wastewater service extension request. VOTE 6-1 For: Bedford, Thompson, Brimer, Coyne, Barrett Bixler, and Guerrero Against: Creel Abstain: None Recuse: Ramberg Absent: None Approved By: Linda Guerrero, Environmental Commission Chair 2
1 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MOTION 20210421 003a Date: April 21, 2021 Seconded by: Perry Bedford Subject: Braker Valley Subdivision, C8-2020-0112 Motion by: Kevin Ramberg RATIONALE: WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the applicant is requesting variances from LDC 25- 8-341 to allow cut over four feet to 11.5 feet and requesting variance from LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill over four feet to 17 feet; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes that staff recommends this variance (with conditions) having determined the required Findings of Fact have been met. THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends the variance request with the following Staff Conditions: 1. In the two locations where roadways cross the Critical Water Quality Zone, culverts will be provided for the entire width of the half-Critical Water Quality Zone. This avoids the flow pinch-point of the single, narrow culvert originally proposed; and 2. All areas of the stormwater pond that are not covered by dam safety regulations will be revegetated with Standard Specifications Manual 609S Native Seeding and Planting for Restoration, using a selection of low-growing, non-woody vegetation that can be mowed. VOTE 8-0 Approved By: For: Bedford, Creel, Thompson, Brimer, Coyne, Ramberg, Barrett Bixler, and Guerrero Against: None Abstain: None Recuse: None Absent: None Linda Guerrero, Environmental Commission Chair
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, April 21, 2021 The Environmental Commission convened in a public meeting on Wednesday, April 21, 2021 with Social Distancing Modifications via remote video conferencing. Commissioners in Attendance: Andrew Creel Pam Thompson Katie Coyne Kevin Ramberg Linda Guerrero Perry Bedford Audrey Barrett Bixler Rick Brimer Commissioners Absent: None Staff in Attendance: Kaela Champlin Chris Herrington Liz Johnston Cole Huggins Pamela Abee-Taulli Hank Marley CALL TO ORDER Chair Guerrero called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M. 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. APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND ACTION a. Approval of the April 7, 2021 Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes (5 minutes) The minutes of the April 7, 2021 Environmental Commission meeting were approved on Commissioner Ramberg’s motion, Commissioner Creel’s second on a 8-0 vote. 1 2. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION a. Election of Environmental Commission Officers for the May 1, 2021 through April 30, 2022 term (10 minutes) Commissioner Guerrero was unanimously supported for the Chair position. Commissioner Coyne was unanimously supported for the Vice-Chair position. Commissioner Ramberg was unanimously supported for the Secretary position. b. Discuss committee memberships (10 minutes) Item conducted as posted. No action taken. 3. PUBLIC HEARINGS a. Name: Braker Valley Subdivision, C8-2020-0112 Applicant: Chris Rawls, BGE, Inc. Location: 4806 Blue Goose Rd, Austin, TX 78754 (District 1) Staff: Pamela Abee-Taulli, Environmental Review Specialist Senior, Development Services Department Watershed: Walnut Creek Watershed, Suburban Classification, Desired Development Zone Request: 1. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut over four feet to 11.5 feet 2. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill over four feet to 17 feet Staff Recommendation: Recommended with conditions (30 minutes) Speakers Chris Rawls A motion to close the public hearing was approved on Commissioner Coyne’s motion, Commissioner Ramberg’s second on a 8-0 vote. A motion to recommend the variance requests with conditions was approved on Commissioner Ramberg’s motion, Commissioner Bedford’s second on 8-0 vote. b. Name: 1076 Springdale, SP-2019-0385C Applicant: Brad Lingvai, WGI Engineering Location: 1076 Springdale Road, Austin, TX, 78721 (District 1) Staff: Hank Marley, Environmental Review Specialist Senior, Development Services Department Watershed: Tannehill Branch Watershed, Urban Classification, Desired Development Zone Request: Request to vary from LDC 25-8-261 …
Versión en español a continuación. Environmental Commission Regular Meeting April 7, 2021 Environmental Commission to be held April 7, 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 (April 6, 2021 by noon). All public comment will occur at the beginning of the meeting. To speak remotely at the April 7, 2021 Environmental Commission Regular 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 (7 de abril 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 (6 de abril 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 utilizará para …
Vision Plan Draft 1 Central Williamson Creek Vision Greenway Vision Plan MARCH 2021 DRAFT Acknowledgments Project Team Nicole Joslin, AIA, LEED AP Executive Director Marla Torrado, Ph.D. Planning Director Shavone Otero Community Coordinator Thomas Medina Community Planner Community Working Group Mary Olmstead Anna Pittala Steve Prather Jessica Sager Nicole Sanford Greg Stevens Michael Usher Esther Weekes City Departments Watershed Protection Department Parks and Recreation Department Public Works Office of Sustainability Office of Innovation Housing and Planning Department Equity Office 2 Amy Belaire, Ph.D. Texas Director of Science and Strategy Katie Coyne, AICP, ESA, SITES AP Principal-In-Charge Claire Eddleman-Heath PLA, LEED AP, SITES AP Project Manager Kari Spiegelhalter Deputy Project Manager Andrew Wright Landscape Designer City of Austin Working Group Christine Chute Canul Parks and Rec. Dept. Justin Stewart Parks and Rec. Dept Marc Coudert Office of Sustainability Megan Eckhard Parks and Rec. Dept. Sydney Garcia* National Parks Service David Trujillo Watershed Protection Dept. LaJuan Tucker Parks and Rec Dept Staryn Wagner Watershed Protection Dept. Leah Gibson Watershed Protection Dept. Katie Wettick Urban Trails Marie Lancaster Watershed Protection Dept. Jessica Wilson Watershed Protection Dept. Gibran Lule-Hurtado* National Parks Service *Working Group Members from the National Parks Service Letter From the Community Working Group Williamson Creek is a gem crossing West to East in South Austin between Oak Hill and McKinney Falls State Park. Residents of the neighborhoods surrounding Williamson Creek have enjoyed this natural beauty for more than 20 years. Community efforts over a number of years, including trash pick-ups, tree planting and the removal of invasive species, have resulted in improving the health of the creek and supporting the native flora and fauna. Central Williamson Creek Greenway is slowly becoming a more welcoming green space for residents to connect with nature and for nature to thrive. We are thrilled to envision the future of a place we love so dearly with the Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan. This Vision Plan represents a 12-month process of both Williamson Creek Working Group (WCWG) formal and creative efforts to engage the community and input derived from public engagement. Community engagement activities included: community members recording their own oral histories through WCWG interviews; virtual community picnics virtual mapping enabling community to propose ideas such as food forest planting and hiking trails in and around the creek; several in-person and socially-distanced “Creek Chats” to engage the community; and a final community picnic to unveil …
