ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA December 2, 2020 1514 W Koenig Lane Office Building; SP-2019-0027CT Wheels and Water LLC; Katie Kam, PhD, PE COMMISSION MEETING DATE: NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: LOCATION: 1514 W Koenig Lane COUNCIL DISTRICT: District # 7 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW STAFF: Mike McDougal, Environmental Policy Program Manager Development Services Department 512-974-6380 mike.mcdougal@austintexas.gov WATERSHED: REQUEST: Shoal Creek Watershed, Urban Watershed Classification, Desired Development Zone Variance request is as follows: Request to vary from LDC 25-8-261 to allow construction in the Critical Water Quality Zone STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff does not recommend support for this variance, the findings of fact have not been met. Development Services Department Staff Recommendations Concerning Required Findings Project Name: Ordinance Standard: Watershed Protection Ordinance Variance Request: 1514 W Koenig Ln Office Building SP-2019-0027CT Request to vary from LDC 25-8-261 to allow construction in the 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. The applicant proposes to demolish the original single family structure built in 1952 and construct an office building. The proposed project is located on Koenig Lane between Burnet Road and North Lamar Boulevard (see Staff Exhibit 1 – Vicinity Map). Most properties fronting this segment of Koenig Lane consist of single family residences that have been expanded for or replaced with commercial use. The existing impervious cover is 35.5% (approximately 2600 square feet); the proposed impervious cover is 70% (approximately 5000 square feet). Adjacent properties on Koenig Lane have existing impervious cover ranging from 19% to 91%. The proposed project is generally consistent with other development located along Koenig Lane. 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; No. The entire property is located within the Critical Water Quality Zone. The proposed project represents a design decision that does not provide 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; Yes. The Critical Water Quality Zone associated …
Pamela Abee-Taulli Environmental Review Specialist Senior Development Services Department APPLIED MATERIALS LOGISTICS SERVICE CENTER CONCEPT SITE PLAN 9630 E US 290 HWY SVRD WB SP-2020-0178C.CP PROPERTY LOCATION & DATA •Decker Creek Watershed •Suburban Watershed Classification •Desired Developent Zone •Full Purpose Jurisdiction •Not located over Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone •Wetland Critical Environmental Feature •Council District 1 PROPERTY LOCATION & DATA HARRIS BRANCH PKWY APPLIED MATERIALS CAMPUS & LIMITS OF CONSTRUCTION SITE CONDITIONS •2-5% slopes •Minimal natural character •Wetland Critical Environmental Feature WAREHOUSE LOCATION WETLAND CEF SITE PLAN •Applicant proposes to consolidate seven (7) off-site logistics facilities into one central warehouse and distribution service center. •The 699,000 square-foot warehouse will use automated robotic equipment, and therefore requires a consistent floor elevation. WAREHOUSE SITE PLAN TRUCK BAYS WAREHOUSE WETLAND CEF & BIOFILTRATION GRADING EXHIBIT RETAINING WALL CUT TO 12’
ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA COMMISSION MEETING DATE: December 2, 2020 NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: Applied Materials Logistics Service Center SP-2020-0321C NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: Tammi Migl, Migl Engineering LOCATION: 9614 E US 290 Hwy, Austin, TX, 78724 COUNCIL DISTRICT: District 1 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW STAFF: WATERSHED: REQUEST: STAFF RECOMMENDATION: STAFF CONDITION: Pamela Abee-Taulli Environmental Review Specialist Senior 512-974-1879, pamela.abee-taulli@austintexas.gov Decker Creek Watershed, Suburban Classification, Desired Development Zone Variance request is as follows: Request to vary from LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut to 12 feet. Staff recommends this variance, having determined the findings of fact to have been met. Applicant will stockpile and preserve topsoil for reuse in landscape, wetland mitigation, and/or biofiltration areas. November 4, 2020Page 1 Development Services Department Staff Recommendations Concerning Required Findings Project Name: Ordinance Standard: Watershed Protection Ordinance Variance Request: Applied Materials Logistics Service Center Vary from LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut to 12 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 applicant intends to combine multiple warehouses into one consolidated warehouse at this location. Automated robotic equipment and human operated wheeled equipment to be used in the facility require a consistent floor elevation. The applicant proposes 699,000 square feet of warehouse space with a consistent floor elevation, as well as loading docks, fire lanes, and parking that will be constructed at elevations appropriate for the warehouse finished floor elevation. A consistent floor elevation is necessary for this type of automated warehouse. The applicant proposes to construct this facility on a site with minimal slopes (2% to 5%). However, the size of the warehouse necessitates cut up to 12 feet to achieve a consistent finished floor elevation. The applicant proposes cut up to 12 feet, which has been minimized by use of a retaining wall, as shown in Exhibit 1. 2. The variance: a) Is not necessitated by the scale, layout, construction method, or other design decision made by the applicant, unless the design decision provides greater overall environmental protection than is achievable without the variance; Yes The materials handling needs of the warehousing process, and inclusion of a large automated storage solution within the warehouse, require a single building with …
Wheels & Water LLC Austin, Texas 78723 Texas Registered Engineering Firm F-19740 http://www.wheelsandwaterllc.com December 1, 2020 Mike McDougal Environmental Policy Program Manager City of Austin Watershed Protection Department 505 Barton Springs Road Austin, Texas 78704 Re: Environmental variance requests for 1514 W. Koenig Lane Office Building, Austin, Texas 78756 Case: SP-2019-0027C To Mr. McDougal: Per staff’s determination, site plan case SP-2019-0027C must go to the Environmental Commission for a variance from Austin Land Development Code (LDC) section 25-8-261 because of the proposal to develop a three-story office building (the “proposed development”) at 1514 West Koenig Lane within the Critical Water Quality Zone (CWQZ) of the Hancock Branch of Shoal Creek. LDC section 25-8-261 states the following: In all watersheds, development is prohibited in a critical water quality zone except as provided in this Division. Development allowed in the critical water quality zone under this Division shall be revegetated and restored within the limits of construction as prescribed by the Environmental Criteria Manual. The purposes of this letter are to 1) explain why staff’s determination that this case needs a variance should be reconsidered, and 2) to request approval of the variance and describe findings of fact if there continues to be a determination that the variance is needed. Determination for Variance A request was made for staff to not apply the CWQZ to the property per LDC 25-8-92 (C) (2), which states: Notwithstanding the provisions of Subsection (C)(1), a critical water quality zone does not apply to a previously modified drainage feature serving a railroad or public roadway right-of-way that does not possess any natural and traditional character and cannot reasonably be restored to a natural condition. The last phrase “restored to a natural condition” indicates that the drainage feature referred to in LDC 25- 8-92 (C) (2) is intended to be a feature that at one point was a natural drainage feature with natural condition. The Hancock Branch of Shoal Creek was clearly modified in the construction of the subdivision to be a drainage feature to serve the Arroyo Seco roadway within the public roadway right-of-way (Figure 1). The creek is hemmed in between the two Arroyo Seco roadways; therefore, not able to naturally meander (Figure 1 and Figure 2). Curb inlets from the street to the creek (Figure 2) indicate Hancock Branch was made to be the drainage feature for Arroyo Seco. Thus, this project should have been …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MOTION 20201202 002a Subject: Brushy Creek Regional Utility Authority Raw Water Pump Station, SP-2020-0228D Motion by: Katie Coyne Seconded by: Wendy Gordon Date: December 2, 2020 RATIONALE: 2. WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the applicant is requesting five variances from code including: 1. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-301 to construct private driveways crossing slopes in excess of 15 percent gradient Request to vary from LDC 25-8-302(A) to construct a surface parking lot on slopes in excess of 15 percent gradient Request to vary from LDC 25-8-302(B) to construct a building on slopes in excess of 25 percent gradient and exceed impervious cover allowance on slopes with a gradient of more than 15 percent Request to vary from LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill in excess of four feet in the Drinking Water Protection Zone Request to vary from LDC 25-8-453(D)(1) to allow impervious cover in excess of 20 percent Net Site Area 5. 3. 4. WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the site is located at 9416 Lime Creek Road, Leander, Texas in the City of Austin Extraterritorial Jurisdiction; 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 Condition: 1. Restoration of disturbed areas within the 40% Natural Area Buffer shall be subject to ECM Appendix A criteria Provide robust temporary and permanent erosion and sedimentation controls downgradient of the proposed development beyond the minimum standard Provide dense screening vegetation in compliance with ECM 2.9.0 for all pervious areas between the building and mechanical equipment and the right-of-way. 3. 2. 1 VOTE 8-0 For: Gordon, Neely, Bedford, Thompson, Smith, Guerrero, Coyne, Maceo Against: None Abstain: None Recuse: Ramberg Absent: Creel, Nill Approved By: Linda Guerrero, Environmental Commission Chair 2
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MOTION 20201202 002b Subject: 1514 W Koenig Lane Office Building, SP-2019-0027CT Motion by: Kevin Ramberg Seconded by: Katie Coyne Date: December 2, 2020 RATIONALE: WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the applicant is requesting a variance from LDC 25-8-261 to allow construction in the Critical Water Quality Zone. WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes that staff does not recommend this variance having determined the required Findings of Fact have not been met. THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends denial the variance request. VOTE 9-0 For: Smith, Thompson, Neely, Coyne, Maceo, Ramberg, Guerrero, Gordon, Bedford Against: None Abstain: None Recuse: None Absent: Creel, Nill Approved By: Linda Guerrero, Environmental Commission Chair 1
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MOTION 20201202 002c Subject: Applied Materials Logistics Service Center, SP-2020-0321C Motion by: Kevin Ramberg Seconded by: Pam Thompson Date: December 2, 2020 RATIONALE: WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the applicant is requesting a variance from LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut to 12 feet; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes that staff recommends this variance (with one staff condition) having determined the required Findings of Fact have been met. THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends the variance request with the following; 1. Applicant will stockpile and preserve topsoil for reuse in landscape, wetland mitigation, and/or biofiltration areas. Staff Condition: VOTE 9-0 For: Smith, Thompson, Neely, Coyne, Maceo, Ramberg, Guerrero, Gordon, Bedford Against: None Abstain: None Recuse: None Absent: Creel, Nill Approved By: Linda Guerrero, Environmental Commission Chair 1
Remote Meeting of the Environmental Commission November 20, 2020 at 1:00 P.M. Environmental Commission to be held November 20, 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, November 19, 2020 by noon). All public comment will occur at the beginning of the meeting. To speak remotely at the November 20, 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 (20 de noviembre de 2020 a las 1:00 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 (19 de noviembre 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 …
Lone Star Riverboat Cruises Lone Star Pump-outs: January 2018-October 2020 2020 February 7 February 25 June 12 September 8 October 19 2018 March 7 June 1 July 13 September 25 December 28 2019 March 22 May 2 June 7 June 8 July 5 August 7 September 18 October 21 December 11 Notes: Lone Star has two 200-gallon capacity holding tanks. Each date listed above represents one 200- gallon pump-out. As part of contract compliance, Lone Star Riverboat provides PARD with monthly reports, including invoices from hauler, Sellman Enterprises, Inc. Septic Services, and City of Austin Water Utility manifests for hauled liquid waste. All manifests going back to 2015 are on file. ~ Waste Track ing Form Generator Information ,,, Lt v c.. "'-- Bt!> H- -r ?41 . ...J - No. Generator Name: U?/v& 5-,~, \. Address: ·5" I ?:.r '57 It:>/ This waste was removed from my: County: -1-/A-~cJ ( f Telephone: ----"C:_ /_ L _ J.L..._2-_7'---'-/--'J'-t--'j' - - - D Grease Trap ..--Gl..--Septic Tank D Other _ _ _ _...,,,..._....,.., ___ _ D Grit Trap D Chemical Toilet (Specify) OR This waste is: D Sewer Sludge D Water Treatment Sludge My waste tank or trap holds up to ______ gallons. The transporter removed a total of _ ..-Z-. __ ··~ ____ gallons. Date of last pumping: ______________ _ As the generator's representative, I certify that this waste contains no hazardous materials, was removed from this address on __l_; _1_; f ~ at ---1..l=:~ D a.m . • Q15.m., and is to be transported to a facility that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has authorized to receive these wastes. . ~ Generator Name (printed) _:J?.:ffe~ vf i:,;JV Generator's Signa&Z"~ Transporter Information Business Name: ) G- C<- v<--\.A~ Address r) ~ 0 'f. nu1J4 rl 7'tJ0rd l j 7 J Telephone: ~( l- ·1 f L t?OG> <-- TCEQ Registration Number: _~_1_5"'_L_5 ______ _ GBRA Permit Number: -= - - - - - - -- - - - - - Vehicle Capacity: _ __ J_~_<>_.v _____ .,.--___ gallons Truck License Number: I t'Vf L i l (. / 17 Grease Trap Conditions Inches of grease: _ _ __ Inches of solids: ____ _ Method of measurement used : _ ______ _ _ _ I Condition of trap: AS A COURTESY TO THE CUSTOMER, PLEASE CHECK THE TRAP FOR NEEDED REPAIRS AND NOTIFY THE OWNER IF REPAIRS ARE NEEDED. The …
Austin Parks and Recreation Department Annual Concession Report 2020 Finance Division Contract Compliance Staff Presented by November 2020 Austin City Code § 8-1-73 requires delivery of an annual report to the Parks and Recreation Board and the Environmental Commission providing the following information regarding concessions on Lady Bird Lake Park: Austin City Code • Name and Location • Income and Expenditures • Total Number of Boats Rented • Environmental Concerns 2 Names and Locations Rowing Dock Texas Rowing Center Zilker Zephyr Railroad (temporarily closed) Zilker Café (temporarily closed) Zilker Park Boat Rentals Butler Pitch & Putt Lone Star Riverboat Cruises Austin Rowing Club / Waller Creek Boathouse EpicSUP 3 3 COVID-19 Impact on Concessions March 13 State of Texas Declaration of State of Disaster Concessions modify operations to include distancing, hand sanitizer, etc. March 24 Austin/Travis County Stay Home-Work Safe Order Concessions closed May 1 Open Texas Phase 1 Boating concessions reopen with modified operations May 8 Lone Star Riverboat reopens at 25% capacity limits May 24 Lone Star Riverboat increases to 50% capacity limits June 28 Pause in Open Texas Phases Concessions closed for July 4 weekend and beyond August 15 Park facilities limited reopening Boating concessions reopen; modified operations still in place. Butler Pitch and Putt remains closed to begin renovations. 4 4 FY20 Income, Expenditures, and Payments $2.5 s n o i l l i M $2.0 $1.5 $1.0 $0.5 $0.0 Gross Sales *Business Expenses, IRS Publication 535 $1,411,561 Reported Expenditures Payments to City $653,102 $111,359 $403,855 $328,340 $39,068 Austin Rowing Club Butler Pitch and Putt Lone Star Riverboats Texas Rowing Center Zilker Park Boat Rentals EpicSUP $343,588 $165,033 $38,103 $281,591 $423,215 $64,822 Rowing Dock $1,467,756 $839,097 $143,031 $2,448,496 $1,850,844 $186,225 $358,344 $238,765 $33,401 5 5 Monthly Revenues FY19 vs FY20 All Concessions (down 16%) $1.6 $1.4 s n o i l l i M $1.2 $1.0 $0.8 $0.6 $0.4 $0.2 $0.0 Lone Star Riverboat (down 66%) LSR FY19 LSR FY20 EpicSUP (up 72%) s d n a s u o h T $120 $100 $80 $60 $40 $20 $0 s d n a s u o h T $120 $100 $80 $60 $40 $20 $0 FY19 FY20 EpicSUP FY19 6 EpicSUP FY20 6 FY20 Revenue vs Average (FY14–FY19) COVID-19 Impact s n o i l l i M $2.5 $2.0 $1.5 $1.0 $0.5 $0.0 Austin Rowing Butler Pitch & Club Putt $470,674 $396,512 EpicSUP $195,268 $317,524 …
ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA COMMISSION MEETING DATE: NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: November 20, 2020 Concordia University Campus Residence Hall, SP-2020-0038C Brandon Hamman, P.E., LEED AP – Kimley-Horn & Associates LOCATION: 11400 Concordia University Drive, 78726 COUNCIL DISTRICT: District 6 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW STAFF: Kristy Nguyen, Environmental Review Specialist Senior, Development Services Department, (512) 974-3035, Kristy.Nguyen@austintexas.gov WATERSHED: Bull Creek, Water Supply Suburban, Drinking Water Protection Zone REQUEST: Variance request is as follows: Request to vary from Lake Austin Watershed Ordinance No. 840301-F, Section 9-10-409(a) – for a fill exceeding four feet STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends this variance, having determined the findings of fact to have been met. STAFF CONDITION: 1. Subject to the Void and Water Flow Mitigation Rule (City Environmental Criteria Manual 1.12.0 and City Standards Specification Manual No. 658S) provision that all trenching greater than 5 feet deep must be inspected by a qualified Texas Professional Geoscientist or their representative; 2. Preserve the top 10 inches of topsoil to be used onsite; and 3. Increased tree mitigation and landscaping for areas of fill to stabilize erosion as shown on landscape plan submitted in this variance packet. Staff Findings of Fact and Exhibits Development Services Department Staff Recommendations Concerning Required Findings Concordia University Campus Residence Hall, SP-2020-0038C Project Name: Ordinance Standard: Schlumberger Planned Development Area, Ordinance No. 20070215-042 (as amended) and Lake Austin Watershed Ordinance No. 840301-F, as stated in the Planned Development Area Section 9-10-409(a) – for a fill exceeding four feet Variance Request: Include an explanation with each applicable finding of fact. A. City Code: Land Use Commission variance determinations from Section 9-10-377 of the 1. 2. In site plan case #SP-2007-0231C, a variance to Lake Austin Are there special circumstances applicable to the property involved where strict application deprives such property owner of privileges or safety enjoyed by other similarly situated property with similarly timed development? Yes Ordinance #840301-F, Sections 9-10-409(a) and 9-10-409(b) was granted for a max cut of +/-5.8’ and a max fill of +/- 17.5’ to construct a parking area, baseball field, and fieldhouse. Thereafter, a variance to vary from the same code sections was granted for a max cut of +/-9.25’ and a max fill of +/- 14.85’ to construct a water quality and detention facility, a water quality channel, a softball field, and associated parking in site plan case #SP-2013-0476C. Does the project demonstrate minimum departures …
CONCORDIA CAMPUS RESIDENCE HALL 11400 CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY DRIVE AUSTIN, TX 78726 SP-2020-0038C Kristy Nguyen Environmental Review Specialist Senior Development Services Department 1 Concordia Campus Residence Hall SP-2020-0038C 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. 0 5 10 Miles[ 2 PROPERTY DATA • Bull Creek, Water Supply Suburban Classification • Drinking Water Protection Zone • Full Purpose Jurisdiction • Located over Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone • Council District 6 • Subject to Schlumberger Planned Development Area, Ordinance No. 20070215-042 (as amended) and Lake Austin Watershed Ordinance No. 840301-F, as stated in the Planned Development Area 3 VICINITY EXHIBIT 4 VARIANCE REQUEST Lake Austin Watershed Ordinance No. 840301-F - Section 9-10-409(a) – for a fill exceeding four feet - Section 9-10-409(b) – for a cut exceeding four feet 5 FINDINGS OF FACT LAKE AUSTIN WATERSHED ORDINANCE, SECTION 9-10-377 TO VARY FROM SECTION 9-10- 409(A) – FOR A FILL EXCEEDING FOUR FEET 6 FINDINGS OF FACT LAKE AUSTIN WATERSHED ORDINANCE SECTION 9-10-377 1. Are there special circumstances applicable to the property involved where strict application deprives such property owner of privileges or safety enjoyed by other similarly situated property with similarly timed development? Staff Determination: Yes In site plan case #SP-2007-0231C, a variance to Lake Austin Ordinance #840301-F, Sections 9-10-409(a) and 9-10-409(b) was granted for a max cut of +/-5.8’ and a max fill of +/- 17.5’ to construct a parking area, baseball field, and fieldhouse. Thereafter, a variance to vary from the same code sections was granted for a max cut of +/-9.25’ and a max fill of +/- 14.85’ to construct a water quality and detention facility, a water quality channel, a softball field, and associated parking in site plan case #SP-2013-0476C. 7 FINDINGS OF FACT LAKE AUSTIN WATERSHED ORDINANCE SECTION 9-10-377 2. Does the project demonstrate minimum departures from the terms of the ordinance necessary to avoid such deprivation of privileges enjoyed by such other property and to facilitate a reasonable …
ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA COMMISSION MEETING DATE: NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: November 20, 2020 Concordia University Campus Residence Hall, SP-2020-0038C Brandon Hamman, P.E., LEED AP – Kimley-Horn & Associates LOCATION: 11400 Concordia University Drive, 78726 COUNCIL DISTRICT: District 6 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW STAFF: Kristy Nguyen, Environmental Review Specialist Senior, Development Services Department, (512) 974-3035, Kristy.Nguyen@austintexas.gov WATERSHED: Bull Creek, Water Supply Suburban, Drinking Water Protection Zone REQUEST: STAFF RECOMMENDATION: STAFF CONDITIONS: Variance request is as follows: Request to vary from Lake Austin Watershed Ordinance No. 840301-F, Section 9-10-409(b) – for a cut exceeding four feet Staff recommends this variance, having determined the findings of fact to have been met. 1. Subject to the Void and Water Flow Mitigation Rule (City Environmental Criteria Manual 1.12.0 and City Standards Specification Manual No. 658S) provision that all trenching greater than 5 feet deep must be inspected by a qualified Texas Professional Geoscientist or their representative; 2. Preserve the top 10 inches of topsoil to be used onsite; and 3. Increased tree mitigation and landscaping for areas of fill to stabilize erosion as shown on landscape plan submitted in this variance packet. Staff Findings of Fact and Exhibits Development Services Department Staff Recommendations Concerning Required Findings Concordia University Campus Residence Hall, SP-2020-0038C Project Name: Ordinance Standard: Schlumberger Planned Development Area, Ordinance No. 20070215-042 (as amended) and Lake Austin Watershed Ordinance No. 840301-F, as stated in the Planned Development Area Section 9-10-409(b) – for a cut exceeding four feet Variance Request: Include an explanation with each applicable finding of fact. Land Use Commission variance determinations from Section 9-10-377 of the A. City Code: 1. Are there special circumstances applicable to the property involved where strict application deprives such property owner of privileges or safety enjoyed by other similarly situated property with similarly timed development? In site plan case #SP-2007-0231C, a variance to Lake Austin Yes Ordinance #840301-F, Sections 9-10-409(a) and 9-10-409(b) was granted for a max cut of +/-5.8’ and a max fill of +/- 17.5’ to construct a parking area, baseball field, and fieldhouse. Thereafter, a variance to the same code sections was granted for a max cut of +/-9.25’ and a max fill of +/- 14.85’ to construct a water quality and detention facility, a water quality channel, a softball field, and associated parking in site plan case #SP-2013-0476C. 2. Does the project demonstrate minimum departures from the …
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Applicant Form and Findings of Fact ENVIRONMENTAL BOARD VARIANCE APPLICATION Applicant Variance Request Letter October 20, 2020 City of Austin Planning and Development Review Department 505 Barton Springs Road Austin, TX 78767 Re: Variance Request Letter – Fill Concordia University Residence Hall - Site Plan Application SP-2020-0038C 11400 Concordia University Drive Austin, Texas 78726 To Whom It May Concern: INTRODUCTION PROJECT DESCRIPTION Please accept this letter as a request for a variance to the Lake Austin Ordinance #840301-F, Sections 9- 10-409(A) and 9-10-409(B) for a max fill of +/- 8.75 ft for the above referenced project. The Concordia University Texas campus is an existing campus located at 11400 Concordia University Drive in northwest Austin, Texas and Travis County. The existing property is approximately 383 acres including approximately 250 acres of preserve land. The campus has existing improvements including buildings, athletic facilities, private drives, underground utilities storm drains, stormwater ponds, and auxiliary improvements. City of Austin | Environmental Board Variance Application Guide 1 The proposed campus improvements include a 4-story residence hall building, associated parking lot, outdoor amphitheater area, pedestrian improvements, two water quality and detention ponds, and associated site improvements. This project is located within the Bull Creek Watershed, classified as a Water Supply Suburban Watershed. The site is located within the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone according to the City of Austin GIS. Critical water quality zones, water quality transition zones, and critical environmental features are located on the southern and eastern portion of the site. No development will occur in these locations. The terrain is heavily wooded and has some grass cover. No requests for a variance to CEF buffers, WQTZ or CWQZ areas are being requested. If you have any questions or comments regarding this request, please contact me at 512-271-6314. Sincerely, Brandon Hammann, P.E., LEED AP Project Manager PROJECT DESCRIPTION Applicant Contact Information Name of Applicant Street Address City State ZIP Code Work Phone E-Mail Address Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. – Brandon Hammann, P.E., LEED AP 10814 Jollyville Road, Building IV, Suite 200 Austin, Texas 78759 512-271-6314 Brandon.Hammann@kimley-horn.com City of Austin | Environmental Board Variance Application Guide 2 Variance Case Information Case Name Case Number Concordia University Residence Hall SP-2020-0038C Address or Location 11400 Concordia University Texas Environmental Reviewer Name Kristy Nguyen Applicable Ordinance Lake Austin Ordinance #840301-F, Sections 9-10-409(A) and 9-10-409(B) Watershed Name Bull Creek Watershed Classification ☐Urban ☐ Suburban X Water Supply Suburban ☐Water Supply …
Pamela Abee-Taulli Environmental Review Specialist Senior Development Services Department Radmon Rice Environmental Specialist Watershed Protection Department ULLRICH LOW SERVICE PUMP STATION ELECTRICAL FEED RENEWAL 3602 1/2 REDBUD TRL UNIT C SPC-03-0005C(R2) 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. 0510Miles[ PROJECT LOCATION Lake Austin Westlake Hills Lady Bird Lake PROPERTY DATA •Water Supply Rural • Bee Creek, Little Bee Creek, and Lake Austin watersheds •Water Supply Suburban • Lady Bird Lake watershed •Drinking Water Protection Zone •Full Purpose Jurisdiction •Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone •Wetland & Rimrock Critical Environmental Features •Council District 8 CONSTRAINTS Existing plant from 2003 CONSTRAINTS Steep slopes CONSTRAINTS Multiple Critical Water Quality Zones & Water Quality Transition Zones CWQZ WQTZ CONSTRAINTS Rimrock & Wetland CEFs Rimrock Wetlands BACKGROUND The plan proposes 6 projects to upgrade an existing City of Austin water treatment plant. The purpose is to improve operator and environmental safety by eliminating potential hazards and to upgrade miscellaneous plant processes to ensure the plant can reliably deliver drinking water. 6 PROJECTS In two phases. •Phase 2 •Phase 3 Phase 2 Phase 3 PHASE 2 1. Switchgear enclosure (#7) 2. Duct bank and access drive (#8) 8 7 1. Containment basin 3. Sludge changeover facility PHASE 3 2. Electric building and 4. 6-inch water line related duct banks 7 VARIANCE REQUESTS 1. Vary LDC 25-8-261 to allow development in the Critical Water Quality Zone, and by extension in the Water Quality Transition Zone of a Water Supply Rural watershed in the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone South [LDC 25-8-452]. 2. Vary LDC 25-8-281 to allow construction within a rimrock Critical Environmental Feature buffer. 3. Vary LDC 25-8-301 to allow construction of a driveway on a slope with a gradient of more than 15 percent. 4. Vary LDC 25-8-302(A)(1) to allow construction of a building on a slope with a gradient of more than 25 percent 7 VARIANCE REQUESTS 5. Vary LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut to sixteen …
MEMORANDUM TO: Linda Guerrero, Chair, Environmental Commission FROM: Pamela Abee-Taulli, Environmental Review, DSD DATE: October 21, 2020 SUBJECT: Albert H. Ullrich Water Treatment Plant, Revision 2 Variances Dear Chair Guerrero, Ullrich Water Treatment Plant, operated by Austin Water Utility, is critical to providing the City with safe drinking water. The site plan under review is a revision to the original site plan, which was approved in 2003. The plan includes multiple projects and will require seven Environmental variances, largely due to the site’s location in an environmentally sensitive area with numerous environmental constraints. Because of the unusually high number of variances, I have taken the uncommon step of providing a single set of findings for all the variances, rather than one set of findings for each variance. Additionally, I am including this memo to introduce the list of proposed projects. The overall purpose of the plan revision under review is to improve operator and environmental safety by eliminating potential hazards and to upgrade miscellaneous plant processes to ensure the plant can reliably deliver drinking water. The sludge change-over structure replaces existing structures that require confined space entry. Other improvements provide safety washdown areas and a looped, potable water supply to the facility. The spill containment structure will contain fugitive spills that may enter the existing storm drain system from chemical delivery areas and will prevent their discharge into Little Bee Creek. The Low Service Pump Station Electrical Feed Renewal project includes construction of a new electrical building, retaining walls, electrical and mechanical equipment, parking areas, access road, and duct bank routing. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Pamela Abee-Taulli, DSD Radmon Rice, WPD 1 ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA COMMISSION MEETING DATE: November 20, 2020 NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: Albert H. Ullrich Water Treatment Plant, Revision 2 SPC-03-0005C(R2) NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: Shari Pape, MWM Design Group LOCATION: 3602 ½ Redbud Trail, Austin, TX, 78746 COUNCIL DISTRICT: District 8 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW STAFF: Pamela Abee-Taulli, Environmental Review Specialist Senior, Development Services Department, 512-974-1879, pamela.abee- taulli@austintexas.gov. WATERSHED: REQUEST: Radmon Rice, Environmental Specialist, Watershed Protection Department, 512-974-3429, radmon.rice@austintexas.gov. Bee Creek, Little Bee Creek, and Lake Austin watersheds are classified Water Supply Rural. Lady Bird Lake watershed is classified Water Supply Suburban. Drinking Water Protection Zone 1. LDC 25-8-261 to allow development in the Critical Water Quality Zone, and by extension in the Water Quality Transition Zone of a Water Supply Rural …
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: 2. COUNTY APPRAISAL DISTRICT PROPERTY ID (#’s): 3. ADDRESS/LOCATION OF PROJECT: 4. WATERSHED: 5. THIS SITE IS WITHIN THE (Check all that apply) Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone* (See note below) .................. YES No Edwards Aquifer Contributing Zone*.................................. YES No Edwards Aquifer 1500 ft Verification Zone* ....................... YES No Barton Spring Zone* .......................................................... YES 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?.......YES** NO If yes, then check all that apply: (1) The floodplain modifications proposed are necessary to protect the public health and safety; (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 (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. (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? ......................................................... YES*** 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). 8. There is a total of (#’s) Critical Environmental Feature(s)(CEFs) on or within150 feet of the project site. If CEF(s) are present, attach a detailed DESCRIPTION of the CEF(s), color PHOTOGRAPHS, the CEF WORKSHEET and …
Appeal Regarding the Urban Forester’s decision on two Cottonwood trees 42” and 20” Trees Located in the Right of Way on Crown Ct, Austin TX INTENDED PURPOSE OF APPEAL: • To communicate and demonstrate the serious issues that these trees cause to the City and property owners of Crown Ct. • To demonstrate that removal of these trees is necessary and warranted. • To elicit change to the “processes and procedures” employed by the Urban Forester regarding removal of Public Trees. • Property owners have no rights under the current rules. SUBJECT TREES & LOCATION – Crown Ct, Austin TX A/C Unit 34” 20” 42” >19” 4 Large Cottonwood Trees – All 4 are female trees that produce “Cotton Fuzz” A/C Unit 34” 20” 42” >19” Background Information on Cottonwood Trees • It is well documented that cottonwood trees are hazardous trees that are prone to rot from the inside out, with no visible signs of this decay on the outside of the tree. Trunk analysis is necessary to determine the extent of decay. • Their roots are known to damage pipes and other infrastructure. • Their “cotton fuzz” seeds are a serious fire hazard and nuisance for municipalities and property owners. • Hundreds, if not thousands, of municipalities in the US have banned these trees for the above reasons. “The Dirt Doctor” Article on Cottonwood Trees: • The author, Howard Garret is: • Nationally syndicated Organic Gardening talk show host • Arborist and specialist in natural organic tree care • Columnist for the Dallas Morning News • Author of 15 books on organic gardening, landscaping and pest control • Chairman of Texas Organic Research Center (TORC) • Organic Advisory Board Texas Department of Agriculture • https://www.dirtdoctor.com/garden/Cottonwood_vq924.htm The Dirt Doctor – Cottonwood Trees • FINAL SPACING: Do not plant • IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION: Cottonwood is a very fast growing, upright messy tree. It sends out cotton all over the place in the spring, has brittle wood and it has large limbs. Its root system is extremely shallow, ravenous and destructive. It normally will have quite a bit of dead wood in the tree. • PROBLEMS: Cottonwood is short lived, has a destructive root system and the cottony seed from the female plant is a nuisance and damaging to electrical appliances. Stressed trees are commonly attacked by borers. The root system is susceptible to cotton root rot and other root diseases. This …
