2. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, October 21, 2020 The Environmental Commission convened in a public meeting on Wednesday, October 21, 2020 with Social Distancing Modifications via remote video conferencing. Commissioners in Attendance: Curtis Smith Kevin Ramberg Linda Guerrero Perry Bedford Katie Coyne Peggy Maceo Mary Ann Neely Wendy Gordon Commissioners Absent: Andrew Creel Ryan Nill Pam Thompson Staff in Attendance: Kaela Champlin Chris Herrington Abel Porras Hank Marley Mark Baker CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Coyne called the meeting to order at 6:05 P.M. 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND ACTION a. Approval of the October 7, 2020 Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes (5 minutes) The minutes of the October 7, 2020 Environmental Commission meeting were approved on Commissioner Ramberg’s motion, Commissioner Smith’s second on a 8-0 vote. Commissioners Creel, Nill, Maceo, and Gordon were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS a. Update on Sawyer-Cleveland Wastewater Treatment Plant—Abel Porras, Supervising Engineer, Watershed Protection Department (15 minutes) Item conducted as posted. No action taken. 1 3. 4. 5. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION a. Approve 2021 Environmental Commission schedule (10 minutes) The proposed 2021 Environmental Commission schedule was approved with changes on Commissioner Ramberg’s motion, Commissioner Smith’s second on a 7- 0 vote. Commissioners Creel, Nill, Thompson, and Guerrero were absent. b. Update on Wildland-Urban Interface Code—Mark Baker, Environmental Compliance Specialist Senior, Austin Fire Department (1 hour) Item conducted as posted. No action taken. PUBLIC HEARINGS AND POSSIBLE ACTION a. Name: 1112 W. Annie Street; SP-2020-0093DS Applicant: Mark Zupan Location: 1112 W. Annie Street, Austin, Texas, 78704 (District 9) Staff: Hank Marley, Environmental Review Specialist Senior, Development Services Department Watershed: West Bouldin Creek Watershed, Urban, Desired Development Zone Request: Variance request is as follows: To allow development inside the Critical Water Quality Zone (LDC 25-8-261) Staff Recommendation: Staff recommend this variance with conditions (15 minutes) A motion to close the public hearing was approved on Commissioner Ramberg’s motion, Commissioner Gordon’s second on a 7-0 vote. A motion to approve the variance request with conditions was approved on Commissioner Ramberg’s motion, Commissioner Maceo’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Creel, Nill, Thompson, and Guerrero were absent. COMMITTEE REPORTS a. Urban Growth Policy and Water Quality Protection Committee – Pam Thompson, Kevin Ramberg, Mary Ann Neely, Curtis Smith, and Perry Bedford b. Urban Forestry Committee – Peggy Maceo, Pam Thompson, Linda Guerrero, and Mary Ann Neely c. Report on the Joint Sustainability Committee – Katie Coyne Commissioner …
Urban Forestry Committee Meeting October 19, 2020 at 10:00 A.M. Environmental Commission to be held October 19, 2020 with Social Distancing Modifications. Public comment will be allowed via telephone; no in-person input will be allowed. All speakers must register in advance (day before the scheduled meeting, October 18, 2020 by noon). All public comment will occur at the beginning of the meeting. To speak remotely at the October 19, 2020 Environmental Commission Meeting, residents must: •Call or email the commission liaison at: Kaela Champlin (512) 974-3443 or Kaela.Champlin@austintexas.gov, no later than noon, (the day before the meeting). The information required is the speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, and a telephone number or email address. •Once a request to speak has been called in or emailed to the board liaison, residents will receive either an email or phone call providing the telephone number to call on the day of the scheduled meeting. •Speakers must call in at least 15 minutes prior to meeting start 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. •Residents may watch the meeting here: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live 1 Reunión del Urban Forestry Committee Fecha de la reunion (19 de octubre de 2020 a las 10:00 A.M.) 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 (18 de octubre de 2020 antes del mediodía). Todos los comentarios públicos se producirán al comienzo de la reunión. Para hablar de forma remota en la reunión, los residentes deben: • Llame o envíe un correo electrónico al enlace de la junta en (512) 690-6729, Kaela.Champlin@gmail.com a más tardar al mediodía (el día antes de la reunión). La información requerida es el nombre del orador, los números de artículo sobre los que desean hablar, si están a favor / en contra / neutrales, y un número de teléfono o dirección de correo electrónico. • Una vez que se haya llamado o enviado por correo electrónico una solicitud para hablar al enlace de la …
City Arborist Program Heritage Tree Report July - Sept 2020 Diameter 9-33.5 Issue Date 7/1/2020 7/1/2020 7/1/2020 7/1/2020 7/1/2020 7/1/2020 7/1/2020 7/1/2020 7/1/2020 7/2/2020 7/2/2020 7/2/2020 7/2/2020 7/2/2020 7/2/2020 7/2/2020 7/2/2020 7/2/2020 7/6/2020 7/6/2020 7/6/2020 7/6/2020 7/6/2020 7/6/2020 7/6/2020 7/6/2020 7/7/2020 7/7/2020 7/7/2020 7/7/2020 7/7/2020 7/7/2020 7/7/2020 7/7/2020 7/7/2020 7/7/2020 7/7/2020 7/7/2020 7/7/2020 7/7/2020 7/7/2020 7/7/2020 7/7/2020 7/7/2020 7/7/2020 7/7/2020 7/7/2020 7/7/2020 7/8/2020 7/8/2020 7/8/2020 7/8/2020 7/8/2020 7/8/2020 7/8/2020 7/8/2020 7/8/2020 7/9/2020 7/9/2020 7/9/2020 7/9/2020 7/9/2020 7/9/2020 7/9/2020 7/10/2020 7/10/2020 7/10/2020 7/10/2020 7/10/2020 7/10/2020 Address 3205 CLAWSON ROAD 5304 N SCOUT ISLAND CIR 5304 N SCOUT ISLAND CIR 4204 FLAGSTAFF DR 808 GULLETT ST 808 GULLETT ST 3606 GARDEN VILLA LN 4611 RICHMOND AVE 7104 RYAN DR 4700 ISLAND CV 4700 ISLAND CV 4700 ISLAND CV 4700 ISLAND CV 4700 ISLAND CV 4700 ISLAND CV 3511 PINNACLE RD 3511 PINNACLE RD 4012 AVENUE G 9114 BALCONES CLUB DRIVE 1604 NORRIS DR 3817 MEANDERING CREEK COVE 1704 RABB RD 1704 RABB RD 3710 CEDAR STREET 3401 SPANISH OAK DR 12917 PADUA DR 1505 HOLLY ST 1505 HOLLY ST 2203 TOWER DR 5003 HIGHLAND CT 5003 HIGHLAND CT 5003 HIGHLAND CT 1505 HOLLY ST 1505 HOLLY ST 1505 HOLLY ST 1505 HOLLY ST 1505 HOLLY ST 1505 HOLLY ST 1505 HOLLY ST 307 CEDARBROOK COURT 15 MARGRANITA CRESCENT 1519 W 29TH STREET 3809 SPICEWOOD SPRINGS RD EB 12315 BEDROCK TRL 12021 SELMA HUGHES PARK RD 12021 SELMA HUGHES PARK RD 12021 SELMA HUGHES PARK RD 12021 SELMA HUGHES PARK RD 10511 DOERING LANE 2314 WESTROCK DR 4708 RUE ST 4708 RUE ST 9305 CLEAROCK DR 9305 CLEAROCK DR 9305 CLEAROCK DR 2208 S 2ND ST 2208 S 2ND ST 127 BIRNAM WOOD CT 4502 HANK AVENUE 3101 NEAL ST 1628 E CESAR CHAVEZ STREET 9005 CURRYWOOD DRIVE 2007 BLUEBONNET LN 2007 BLUEBONNET LN 1013 E 45TH ST 1013 E 45TH ST 4809 ALF AVE 1000 ELLINGSON LN 3304 BEVERLY ROAD 1902 CULLEN AVE Public No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No Yes No Yes No No Yes No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No Yes Yes No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No Species Live Oak Live Oak Live Oak Spanish …
Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission October 7, 2020 at 6:00 P.M. Environmental Commission to be held October 7, 2020 with Social Distancing Modifications. Public comment will be allowed via telephone; no in-person input will be allowed. All speakers must register in advance (day before the scheduled meeting, October 6, 2020 by noon). All public comment will occur at the beginning of the meeting. To speak remotely at the October 7, 2020 Environmental Commission Meeting, residents must: •Call or email the commission liaison at: Kaela Champlin (512) 974-3443 or Kaela.Champlin@austintexas.gov, no later than noon, (the day before the meeting). The information required is the speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, and a telephone number or email address. •Once a request to speak has been called in or emailed to the board liaison, residents will receive either an email or phone call providing the telephone number to call on the day of the scheduled meeting. •Speakers must call in at least 15 minutes prior to meeting start 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. •Residents may watch the meeting here: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live 1 Reunión del Environmental Commission Fecha de la reunion (7 de octubre de 2020 a las 6:00 P.M.) 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 octubre de 2020 antes del mediodía). Todos los comentarios públicos se producirán al comienzo de la reunión. Para hablar de forma remota en la reunión, los residentes deben: • Llame o envíe un correo electrónico al enlace de la junta en (512) 690-6729, Kaela.Champlin@gmail.com a más tardar al mediodía (el día antes de la reunión). La información requerida es el nombre del orador, los números de artículo sobre los que desean hablar, si están a favor / en contra / neutrales, y un número de teléfono o dirección de correo electrónico. • Una vez que se haya llamado o enviado por correo electrónico una solicitud para hablar al enlace de …
87TH STATE LEGISLATIVE AGENDA Intergovernmental Relations Office – Brie L. Franco, Officer TEXAS LEGISLATURE INCREASINGLY FOCUSED ON CITIES Total Bills Introduced Total Bills Passed City‐Related bills introduced City‐Related bills passed Year 76th‐1999 77th‐2001 78th‐2003 79th‐2005 80th‐2007 81st‐2009 82nd‐2011 83rd‐2013 84th‐2015 85th – 2017 5,813 5,612 5,633 5,512 6,241 7,464 5,938 5,950 6,476 6,800 1,622 1,601 1,384 1,389 1,481 1,459 1,379 1,437 1,329 1,208 1,230+ 1,200+ 1,200+ 1,200+ 1,200+ 1,500+ 1,500+ 1,900+ 1,900+ 2,500+ 86th – 2019 7,324 1,429 2,300+ 130+ 150+ 110+ 105+ 120+ 120+ 160+ 220+ 220+ 294 338 • 54 % more City- related bills were passed between 2015 and 2019 • 182 % more City – related bills were passed between 2009 and 2019 9/30/2020 87th Legislative Agenda 2 LEGISLATIVE SESSION: IGRO ROLE In the 86th session • 3,970 Bills/JR’s were filed in last 10 business days before filing deadline, March 8th. (54%). • 7,324 bills read and analyzed by IGRO. • Over 2,500 bills were determined by IGRO to affect cities. • 1,296 Bills/JR’s required analysis/action by departments and IGRO. 9/30/2020 87th Legislative Agenda 3 TREND: ANTI-CITY TONE: GOVERNOR ABBOTT "As opposed to the state having to take multiple rifle- shot approaches at overriding local regulations, I think a broad-based law by the state of Texas that says across the board, the state is going to pre-empt local regulations, is a superior approach“ * – Governor Greg Abbott, March 21, 2017 *Source: “Abbott wants "broad‐based law" that pre‐empts local regulations” Texas Tribune, March 21, 2017 Governor Greg Abbott in 2017 9/30/2020 87th Legislative Agenda 4 TREND: ANTI-CITY LEGISLATION: POST 85TH SPECIAL SESSION "Our cities are still controlled by Democrats…And where do we have all our problems in America? Not at the state level run by Republicans, but in our cities that are mostly controlled by Democrat mayors and Democrat city council men and women. That's where you see liberal policies. That's where you see high taxes. That's where you see street crime." * -Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, 2017 *Source: “Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick blames city governments for "all our problems in America" Texas Tribune, AUG. 4, 2017 9/30/2020 87th Legislative Agenda 5 Lt Governor Dan Patrick in 2016. Photo by Gage Skidmore. TREND: ANTI-CITY TONE: POST 86TH SESSION “Any mayor, county judge that was dumb ass enough to come meet with me, I told them with great clarity, my goal is for this to be the …
Ecoregion context: east and west Austin Edwards Plateau Austin Blackland Prairie Social context: east and west Austin http://projects.statesman.com/news/economic‐mobility/ Lake Austin, Barton Creek, and Williamson Creek Watershed Ordinances Comprehensive Watersheds Ordinance Drainage Criteria Manual Floodplain Ordinance Waterway Ordinance 1974 1977 1980 1981 1983 1986 1991 1992 1997/98 2001 2012 2013 2015 2019 Urban Watersheds Ordinance Watershed Protection Ordinance Land Development Code Revision Atlas 14 floodplain ordinance Save Our Springs Ordinance Lower Watershed ordinance What is a Riparian Area? Soil Water Vegetation Soil Water Vegetation Why protecting and restoring creeksides? community‐centric Urban Heat Island mitigation Access to nature to explore, learn, relax, breath Greenbelt connectivity Air quality Shade Why protecting and restoring creeksides? system‐focus Summarize watershed health Higher moisture and tree survival than uplands Wildlife habitat corridors Natural networks Healthy creeksides, healthier creeks (water quality and quantity, erosion protection) Why restoring creeksides? community and resiliency In tending to nature, can we heal? Is the resiliency in creeksides a story that speaks to us as communities? Existing protections Gaps Critical Water Quality Zones Floodplain Modification Provisons Substantial development restrictions in floodplains No restoration triggered when CWQZ or creek are in poor condition (except when floodplain modification) Current stormwater management allows bypassing of creek
2. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, October 7, 2020 The Environmental Commission convened in a public meeting on Wednesday, October 7, 2020 with Social Distancing Modifications via remote video conferencing. Commissioners in Attendance: Curtis Smith Pam Thompson Kevin Ramberg Linda Guerrero Perry Bedford Katie Coyne Peggy Maceo Mary Ann Neely Wendy Gordon Commissioners Absent: Andrew Creel Ryan Nill Staff in Attendance: Kaela Champlin Brie Franco Ana Gonzalez Chris Herrington CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Guerrero called the meeting to order at 6:06 P.M. 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND ACTION a. Approval of the September 16, 2020 Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes (5 minutes) The minutes of the September 16, 2020 Environmental Commission meeting were approved on Commissioner Ramberg’s motion, Commissioner Thompson’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Creel, Nill, Maceo, and Gordon were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS a. Briefing on 87th State Legislative Agenda—Brie Franco, Officer, Intergovernmental Relations Office (30 minutes) Item conducted as posted. No action taken. 1 b. Briefing on riparian zone protection—Ana Gonzalez, Environmental Scientist Senior, Watershed Protection Department (30 minutes) Item conducted as posted. No action taken. 3. NEW BUSINESS a. Update on remote meeting schedule—Kaela Champlin, Environmental Program Coordinator, Watershed Protection Department (5 minutes) Item conducted as posted. No action taken. 4. COMMITTEE REPORTS a. Urban Growth Policy and Water Quality Protection Committee – Pam Thompson, Kevin Ramberg, Mary Ann Neely, Curtis Smith, and Perry Bedford b. Urban Forestry Committee – Peggy Maceo, Pam Thompson, Linda Guerrero, and Mary Ann Neely c. Report on the Joint Sustainability Committee – Katie Coyne Commissioner Katie Coyne gave an update on the Joint Sustainability Committee. d. Report on the Balcones Canyonlands Conservation Plan Citizen’s Advisory Committee – Mary Ann Neely e. Report on the Joint Committee of the Environmental Commission and Parks and Recreation Board – Mary Ann Neely, Peggy Maceo, Linda Guerrero, and Pam Thompson f. Report on the South Central Waterfront Advisory Board – Linda Guerrero Commissioner Linda Guerrero gave an update on the South Central Waterfront Advisory Board. ADJOURNMENT Commissioner Guerrero adjourned the meeting at 7:02 P.M. 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. For additional information, please call Kaela Champlin, Watershed Protection …
Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission September 16, 2020 at 3:00 P.M. Environmental Commission to be held September 16, 2020 with Social Distancing Modifications. Public comment will be allowed via telephone; no in-person input will be allowed. All speakers must register in advance (day before the scheduled meeting, September 15, 2020 by noon). All public comment will occur at the beginning of the meeting. To speak remotely at the September 16, 2020 Environmental Commission Meeting, residents must: •Call or email the commission liaison at: Kaela Champlin (512) 974-3443 or Kaela.Champlin@austintexas.gov, no later than noon, (the day before the meeting). The information required is the speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, and a telephone number or email address. •Once a request to speak has been called in or emailed to the board liaison, residents will receive either an email or phone call providing the telephone number to call on the day of the scheduled meeting. •Speakers must call in at least 15 minutes prior to meeting start 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. •Residents may watch the meeting here: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live 1 Reunión del Environmental Commission Fecha de la reunion (16 de septiembre de 2020 a las 3:00 P.M.) 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 (15 de septiembre de 2020 antes del mediodía). Todos los comentarios públicos se producirán al comienzo de la reunión. Para hablar de forma remota en la reunión, los residentes deben: • Llame o envíe un correo electrónico al enlace de la junta en (512) 690-6729, Kaela.Champlin@gmail.com a más tardar al mediodía (el día antes de la reunión). La información requerida es el nombre del orador, los números de artículo sobre los que desean hablar, si están a favor / en contra / neutrales, y un número de teléfono o dirección de correo electrónico. • Una vez que se haya llamado o enviado por correo electrónico una solicitud para hablar al enlace de …
ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA COMMISSION MEETING DATE: Sept. 16, 2020 NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: Koenig Lane Commercial SP-2019-0561C NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: Caitlin Kuglen Kimley-Horn LOCATION: 1512-1/2 W Koenig Lane Austin, Texas 78757 COUNCIL DISTRICT: District # 7 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW STAFF: WATERSHED: REQUEST: STAFF RECOMMENDATION: STAFF CONDITION: Jonathan Garner, Environmental Program Coordinator Development Services Department (512) 974-1665 Jonathan.Garner@austintexas.gov Shoal Creek Watershed, Urban Classification, Desired Development Zone Variance request is as follows: Request to vary from LDC 25-8-261 to allow private driveway and parking in a critical water quality zone. Staff recommends this variance, having determined the findings of fact to have been met. Provide ribbon strips in the drive aisle, provide vegetative filter strips throughout the property to capture and treat stormwater runoff, and provide porous concrete for pedestrian paths to reduce overall impervious cover and promote more infiltration on site. Staff Findings of Fact Variance to LDC XX-XX-XXX 1 Development Services Department Staff Recommendations Concerning Required Findings Project Name: Ordinance Standard: Watershed Protection Ordinance Variance Request: Koenig Lane Commercial (SP-2019-0561C) Request to vary LDC 25-8-261 to allow a private driveway and parking lot in a critical water quality zone. 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. LDC 25-8-261 will deprive the property owner of a privilege available to owners of other similarly situated property because the surrounding development (and zoning, LO-MU-NP) is all commercial businesses with similar sized lots and development. Additionally, due to the width and traffic volume along Koenig Drive, on-street parking is not an option. If the applicant is deprived of the privilege to develop this property in context with its current zoning and the surrounding uses, the property will remain vacant and unable to be developed or used in its current condition. 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. In order for the property to be developed under current zoning regulations and in context with the surrounding uses, the applicant is required to provide a means of vehicular ingress and …
KOENIG LANE COMMERCIAL 1512 W. KOENIG LANE AUSTIN, TX 78757 SP-2019-0561C Jonathan Garner Environmental Program Coordinator Development Services Department SP-2019-0561C KOENIG LANE COMMERCIAL 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. 2 PROPERTY DATA • Full-Purpose Jurisdiction • Desired Development Zone • Shoal Creek Watershed (Urban classification) • Not located over Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone • Current code regulations apply 3 VARIANCE REQUEST 1. To allow development in a CWQZ (LDC 25-8-261) • Private driveway and parking lot 4 FINDINGS OF FACT (LDC 25-8-41) 5 FINDINGS OF FACT [LDC 25-8-41(A)] • 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. • Staff determination: Yes. • LDC 25-8-261 will deprive the property owner of a privilege available to owners of other similarly situated property because the surrounding development (and zoning, LO-MU-NP) is all commercial businesses with similar sized lots and development, and on-street parking is not an option along W. Koenig Drive (slides 7-9). 6 SITE CONTEXT 7 SITE AERIAL EXHIBIT 8 SITE ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRAINTS CRITICAL WATER QUALITY ZONE 100-YR FULLY DEVELOPED FLOODPLAIN SITE LOCATION 9 FINDINGS OF FACT (LDC 25-8-41) • 2a: The variance 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: • Staff determination: Yes. For commercial development the applicant is required to provide a means of vehicular ingress and egress, as well as parking on site. The applicant is proposing vegetated filter strips for on-site water quality (slide 12), reducing the overall proposed impervious cover on the property by providing “ribbon strips” for the driveway and porous concrete (slide 13) for all pedestrian walkways These design decisions result in a total proposed impervious cover amount of 55%, where as much as 70% is allowed, and provides on-site water quality …
ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA COMMISSION MEETING DATE: September 16, 2020 NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: 8921 US Hwy 290 West Wastewater Service Extension Request #4796 NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: Joe Longaro, P.E. LJA Engineering, Inc. LOCATION: 8921 US 290 Hwy West, Austin, TX 78737 COUNCIL DISTRICT: Austin 2-Mile Extraterritorial Jurisdiction PROJECT FILING DATE: May 18, 2020 WPD/ENVIRONMENTAL STAFF: Kaela Champlin, Environmental Program Coordinator, Watershed Protection Department (512) 974-3443, kaela.champlin@austintexas.gov Slaughter Creek Watershed, Barton Springs Zone, Edwards Aquifer Contributing Zone, Drinking Water Protection Zone WATERSHED: REQUEST: STAFF DETERMINATION: Wastewater Service Extension Staff recommends approval 1 TO: FROM: MEMORANDUM Linda Guerrero, Chair, and Members of the Environmental Commission Kaela Champlin, Environmental Program Coordinator, Watershed Protection Department September 9, 2020 DATE: SUBJECT: 8921 US Hwy 290 West Wastewater SER #4976 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 8921 US Hwy 290 West wastewater SER #4976 and recommend approval of the request. Site Overview The site consists of one tract of approximately 69.12 acres, located at 8921 W US 290 Hwy. The site is in the City of Austin’s Limited Purpose Jurisdiction, the Slaughter Creek Watershed, the Barton Springs Zone, and the Drinking Water Protection Zone. The site is also within the Edwards Aquifer Contributing Zone and is subject to the Composite Ordinance due to 245 determination. This property has an approved site plan for the Junction Athletic Complex, SP-2016-0607D, a proposed sports complex that has not been constructed. The applicant is now proposing to develop a 280-unit multi-family project in the same development footprint with 140 Land Use Equivalents (LUEs). A revised site plan has not yet been submitted; however, the applicant will comply with the development requirements of the approved site plan. This site is also adjacent to the Ledgestone Multifamily wastewater SER #4622, located at 9021 W US 290 Hwy, approved by Council on June 11, 2020. Environmental Impacts The eastern portion of the site is within the Devils Pen Creek critical water quality zone and water quality transition zone. There are seven wetland critical environmental features (CEFs) and one seep CEF on the property. The site does not drain to occupied salamander habitat. 2 Development Impacts Water: The site is located in the water service area …
8921 US Hwy 290 West Wastewater Service Extension Request #4796 Request Summary • 69.12 acres • 2-Mile ETJ • Slaughter Creek Watershed, Barton Springs Zone • Located in the Edwards Aquifer Contributing Zone • Drinking Water Protection Zone (DWPZ) • Applicant is proposing to develop a 280-unit multi- family project with 14- Land Use Equivalents (LUEs) SER #4622 Site Location Austin City Limits Austin ETJ Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone Edwards Aquifer Contributing Zone Austin City LimitsETJRechargeContributingAustin City LimitsETJRechargeContributing Site Location Devils Pen Creek Honeycomb Dr Devils Pen Creek Ledgestone Multifamily SER #4622 8921 US Hwy 290 W SER #4976 Devils Pen Creek SER #4796 Proposed Wastewater Extension Map provided by AWU SER #4796 Wastewater Summary • 1,000 feet of 8-inch gravity wastewater main in Circle Dr and extend south along Circle Dr and then west along US 290 to the highest point that can be served by the proposed gravity wastewater main. • 6,000 feet of appropriately sized force main from the proposed lift station and extend north through the subject tract and northeast along US 290 Hwy to the proposed 8-inch gravity wastewater main in US 290 Hwy. • 1,800 feet of 15-inch gravity wastewater main from the existing 15- inch gravity wastewater main along Williamson Creek, and extend west to the existing 12-inch gravity wastewater main located west of Covered Bridge Dr. • 2,250 feet of 12-inch gravity wastewater main (minimum 1.0% slope) from the existing 8-inch gravity wastewater main located north of Towana Trl, and extend south towards Towana Trl, west along Towana Trl, and then south along Mowinkle Dr to the existing 8-inch gravity wastewater main in Mowinkle Dr. SER #4796 Summary Lift station • Construction of the wastewater main and lift station are required to be located outside of the water quality transition zone and critical water quality zone. • The appropriately sized lift station and force main shall be sized to provide service to the subject tract only. • The adjacent tract (Ledgestone SER #4622) also requires a lift station and force main, and the applicant has indicated that it is preferable that only one lift station be constructed to serve both tracts. SER #4796 Summary • Approximately 1,600 feet of the 1,800 feet of 15-inch gravity wastewater main is also proposed to be constructed by Granada Ridge (SP-2018-0138, SER #3299). – If the applicant’s project timeline needs these wastewater improvements prior to the …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MOTION 202000916-004a Date: September 16, 2020 Subject: Koenig Lane Commercial, SP-2019-0561C Motion by: Kevin Ramberg Seconded by: Perry Bedford RATIONALE: WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the applicant is requesting a variance from LDC 25- 8-261 to allow private driveway and parking in a critical water quality zone; WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes that the site is located in the Shoal Creek Watershed, Urban Classification, and Desired Development Zone; 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. Provide ribbon strips in the drive aisle, 2. provide vegetative filter strips throughout the property to capture and treat stormwater runoff, and 3. provide porous concrete for pedestrian paths to reduce overall impervious cover and promote more infiltration on site. VOTE 9-0 Absent: Smith, Nill Approved By: For: Bedford, Creel, Thompson, Neely, Coyne, Maceo, Guerrero, Ramberg, and Gordon Against: None Abstain: None Recuse: None Linda Guerrero, Environmental Commission Chair 1
2. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, September 16, 2020 The Environmental Commission convened in a public meeting on Wednesday, September 16, 2020 with Social Distancing Modifications via remote video conferencing. Commissioners in Attendance: Andrew Creel Pam Thompson Kevin Ramberg Linda Guerrero Perry Bedford Katie Coyne Peggy Maceo Mary Ann Neely Wendy Gordon Commissioners Absent: Curtis Smith Ryan Nill Staff in Attendance: Kaela Champlin Jonathan Garner Chris Herrington Brett Ueno CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Guerrero called the meeting to order at 3:03 P.M. 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND ACTION a. Approval of the September 2, 2020 Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes (5 minutes) The minutes of the September 2, 2020 Environmental Commission meeting were approved on Commissioner Ramberg’s motion, Commissioner Neely’s second on a 8-0 vote. Commissioner Creel was off the dais. Commissioners Smith and Nill were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS a. Update on 2019 State of Our Environment Report—Kaela Champlin, Environmental Program Coordinator, Watershed Protection Department (10 minutes) Item conducted as posted. No action taken. 1 3. 4. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION a. None b. PUBLIC HEARINGS AND POSSIBLE ACTION a. Name: Koenig Lane Commercial, SP-2019-0561C Applicant: Caitlin Kuglen, Kimley-Horn Location: 1512-1/2 W Koenig Lane, Austin, Texas 78757 (District 7) Staff: Jonathan Garner, Environmental Program Coordinator, Development Services Department Watershed: Shoal Creek Watershed, Urban Classification, Desired Development Zone Request: Request to vary from LDC 25-8-261 to allow private driveway and parking in a critical water quality zone. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends this variance with conditions. (30 minutes) A motion to close the public hearing was approved on Commissioner Ramberg’s motion, Commissioner Creel’s second on a 9-0 vote. A motion to recommend the variance request with conditions was approved on Commissioner Ramberg’s motion, Commissioner Bedford’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Smith and Nill were absent. Name: 8921 US Hwy 290 W Wastewater Service Extension Request #4796 Applicant: Joe Longaro, LJA Engineering Location: 8921 US Hwy 290 W, Austin, TX 78737 (Located in Austin Extraterritorial Jurisdiction) Staff: Kaela Champlin, Environmental Program Coordinator, Watershed Protection Department Watershed: Slaughter Creek Watershed, Barton Springs Zone, Edwards Aquifer Contributing Zone, Drinking Water Protection Zone Request: Wastewater Service Extension Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends this Service Extension Request. (30 minutes) Item 4b was postponed indefinitely. No action taken. COMMITTEE REPORTS a. Urban Growth Policy and Water Quality Protection Committee – Pam Thompson, Kevin Ramberg, Mary Ann Neely, Curtis Smith, and Perry Bedford b. Urban Forestry Committee – …
Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission September 2, 2020 at 3:00 P.M. Environmental Commission to be held September 2, 2020 with Social Distancing Modifications. Public comment will be allowed via telephone; no in-person input will be allowed. All speakers must register in advance (day before the scheduled meeting, September 1, 2020 by noon). All public comment will occur at the beginning of the meeting. To speak remotely at the September 2, 2020 Environmental Commission Meeting, residents must: •Call or email the commission liaison at: Kaela Champlin (512) 974-3443 or Kaela.Champlin@austintexas.gov, no later than noon, (the day before the meeting). The information required is the speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, and a telephone number or email address. •Once a request to speak has been called in or emailed to the board liaison, residents will receive either an email or phone call providing the telephone number to call on the day of the scheduled meeting. •Speakers must call in at least 15 minutes prior to meeting start 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. •Residents may watch the meeting here: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live 1 Reunión del Environmental Commission Fecha de la reunion (2 de septiembre de 2020 a las 3:00 P.M.) 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 (1 de septiembre de 2020 antes del mediodía). Todos los comentarios públicos se producirán al comienzo de la reunión. Para hablar de forma remota en la reunión, los residentes deben: • Llame o envíe un correo electrónico al enlace de (512) 690-6729, Kaela.Champlin@gmail.com a más tardar al mediodía (el día antes de la reunión). La información requerida es el nombre del orador, los números de artículo sobre los que desean hablar, si están a favor / en contra / neutrales, y un número de teléfono o dirección de correo electrónico. • Una vez que se haya llamado o enviado por correo electrónico una solicitud para hablar al enlace de la junta, los …
VARIANCE REQUESTS & ASSOCIATED CONDITIONS Appropriateness (Findings of Fact) Findings for Land Commission Variances: (2) development subject to similar code requirements; the variance: (a) (A)(1) the requirement will deprive the applicant of a privilege available to owners of other similarly situated property with approximately contemporaneous 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; is the minimum deviation from the code requirement necessary to allow a reasonable use of the property; and (b) (c) does not create a significant probability of harmful environmental consequences; and (3) development with the variance will result in water quality that is at least equal to the water quality achievable without the variance. Additional Findings for Stream Buffers: (1) (2) (3) the criteria for granting a variance in Subsection (A) are met; the requirement for which a variance is requested prevents a reasonable, economic use of the entire property; and the variance is the minimum deviation from the code requirement necessary to allow a reasonable, economic use of the entire property. GLOSSARY BSZ CEF CWQZ DDZ Dev’t ERM Barton Springs Zone Critical Environmental Feature Critical Water Quality Zone Desired Development Zone Development Environmental Resource Management (WPD) ETJ Extra Territorial Jurisdiction IC Impervious Cover NSA NSA ROW SFR SOS WQ Net Site Area Net Site Area Right of Way Single Family Residential Save Our Springs Water Quality WQTZ WS Rural Water Quality Transition Zone Water Supply Rural IPM Integrated Pest Management WS Suburban Water Supply Suburban MFR Multifamily Residential Wshed Watershed Revised 2020 Page 1 of 4 VARIANCE REQUESTS & ASSOCIATED CONDITIONS Structural containment (retaining walls) – REQUIRED Similar to Cut & Fill Code Requirements Intent of Code Suggested Conditions Examples Max 4 feet cut & fill allowed (except Encourage design within unlimited under buildings, when constructing a WQ pond, or within a ROW) the land constraints Maintain slope stability Prevent loss of site Structural containment (retaining walls) Restoration and revegetation Terracing (expands footprint, disturbance, and tree removal) Variance Request Cut & Fill 25‐8‐341 25‐8‐342 Construction on Slopes 25‐8‐301 25‐8‐302 (CWQZ & WQTZ) 25‐8‐261 25‐8‐322 25‐8‐452 25‐8‐483 Must restore & stabilize cut & fill areas Up to 8 ft. administrative variance allowed in DDZ if not located on a slope gradient >15% …
