ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA COMMISSION MEETING DATE: June 5, 2024 NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: 290 Parmer Industrial – 2 SP-2023-0401C NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: Ryan Taylor, Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. LOCATION: 10095 E US 290 Hwy Service Road EB Austin, Texas COUNCIL DISTRICT: Council District 1 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW STAFF: WATERSHED: REQUEST: David Michael Environmental Review Specialist Senior Development Services Department 512-974-2263 david.michael@austintexas.gov Gilleland Creek Watershed Suburban Watershed Classification Desired Development Zone Variance request is as follows: Request to vary from LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut up to 15 feet Request to vary from LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill up to 16 feet STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends these variances, having determined the findings of fact to have been met. The required landscape plan will be supplemented with an increase in the amount of tree canopy and other vegetative cover, larger tree sizes planted, and establishment of managed native wildflower meadows on the graded slopes: • 50 Additional shade trees • +250 additional shade tree inches (larger sizes) • +150 additional small tree inches (larger sizes) • +14,000 sq. ft. wildflower seeding & management area Page 2 of 2 STAFF CONDITION: Development Services Department Staff Recommendations Concerning Required Findings Project Name: 290 Parmer Industrial - 2 SP-2023-0401C Ordinance Standard: Watershed Protection Ordinance Variance Request: Request to vary from LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut up to 15 feet A. Land Use Commission variance determinations from Chapter 25-8-41 of the City Code: 1. The requirement will deprive the applicant of a privilege or the safety of property given to owners of other similarly situated property with approximately contemporaneous development; Yes. The use of the proposed warehouses requires extensive areas of uniform finished floor elevations as is typical for shipping and receiving facilities. Cut in the existing grades over eight feet is needed to allow for the level finished-floor elevations and level loading docks, to maintain drives at minimal grades necessary for truck maneuverability, and to allow ADA access. The site plan proposes two warehouses with truck courts on a 21.6-acre lot that has no natural occurring slopes over 15 percent, requiring cut up to 14.2 feet in depth, and fill up to 15.2 feet in depth. The Land Use Commission has frequently approved variances for cut and fill over eight feet in depth for warehouse projects in the Desired Development Zone. Examples of similar projects include: Applied Materials Logistics Service Center, …
COMMISSION MEETING DATE: NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA June 5, 2024 Stassney Park SPC-2023-0110C Nick Brown / Kimley-Horn LOCATION: 6200 E Stassney Lane, Austin, TX, 78744 COUNCIL DISTRICT: District 2 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW STAFF: Mike McDougal, Environmental Policy Program Manager, Development Services Department, 512-974-6380, mike.mcdougal@austintexas.gov WATERSHED: Williamson Creek, Suburban, Desired Development Zone REQUEST: Variance request is as follows: 1. To allow fill up to 23 feet within the Desired Development Zone (LDC 25-8-342) 2. To allow cut up to 24 feet within the Desired Development Zone (LDC 25-8-341) 3. To allow driveway construction on a gradient in excess of 15% (LDC 25-8-301) Page 2 of 2 STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends these variances, having determined the findings of fact to have been met. STAFF CONDITIONS: 1. Parking lot trees shall have a minimum diameter of 2 inches. 2. Provide 25 additional street yard trees with a diameter of at least 3 inches each. 3. Increase wetlands plantings by 10% (based on the square footage of mitigation required) using plants approved by Watershed Protection Department. 4. All cut and fill over 8 feet will be contained with rock retaining walls with a natural stone surface. 5. Restoration plantings within the creek before and after the bypass culvert as approved Watershed Protection Department. 6. Increase plantings in disturbed Critical Water Quality Zone areas by 50% as minimally required by 609S in the vicinity of the bridge abutments as indicated in the site plan. The 50% requirement can be addressed by providing a larger mitigation area or by providing more dense plantings. 7. A tree-shaded outdoor seating area will be provided to encourage employees to take breaks on-site rather than driving to other locations. A. Development Services Department Staff Recommendations Concerning Required Findings Project Name: Stassney Park SPC-2023-0110C Ordinance Standard: Watershed Protection Ordinance Variance Request: To allow fill up to 23 feet within the Desired Development Zone (LDC 25-8-342) Land Use Commission variance determinations from Chapter 25-8-41 of the City Code: 1. The requirement will deprive the applicant of a privilege, or the safety of property given to owners of other similarly situated property with approximately contemporaneous development; Yes: Stassney Park proposes 313,062 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. …
April 10, 2024 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION VARIANCE APPLICATION FORM PROJECT DESCRIPTION Applicant Contact Information Variance Case Information Name of Applicant Street Address City State ZIP Code Work Phone E-Mail Address Case Name Case Number Address or Location Environmental Reviewer Name Environmental Resource Management Reviewer Name Applicable Ordinance Watershed Name Watershed Classification Nick Brown 10814 Jollyville Rd Building 4, Suite 200 Austin, TX 78759 737-210-1044 Nick.Brown@kimley-horn.com Stassney Park SPC-2023-0110C Enrique A Maiz-Torres Eric Brown 25-8-341 & 25-8-342 Williamson Creek ☐Urban ☐Water Supply Rural 6200 E Stassney Ln, Austin, TX 78744 X Suburban ☐Water Supply Suburban ☐ Barton Springs Zone City of Austin | Environmental Commission Variance Application Guide 1 April 10, 2024 Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone ☐ Barton Springs Segment ☐ Northern Edwards Segment X Not in Edwards Aquifer Zones Edwards Aquifer Contributing Zone Distance to Nearest Classified Waterway Water and Waste Water service to be provided by Request ☐ Yes X No Austin Water Utility St Elmo Tributary crosses the southwest corner of the subject property; An unnamed stream bisects the property from north to south. The variance request is as follows: 25-8-342 Fill Requirements Impervious cover square footage: acreage: percentage: Provide general description of the property (slope range, elevation range, summary of vegetation / trees, summary of the geology, CWQZ, WQTZ, CEFs, floodplain, heritage trees, any other notable or outstanding characteristics of the property) Existing ____0____ ___0_____ ____0____ Proposed 880347.6 sf 20.21 Ac 37.92% The subject property is approximately 53.291 acres in size with frontage on Stassney Lane. The property ranges in elevation from 528 to 617. The highest point on the property is the northwest corner and the lowest point is along the southern property line where St Elmo Tributary exits the property. 91.15% of the property falls within the 0% to 15% slope category. The remainder property has slopes exceeding 15% slope mainly isolated to the existing drainage channels. Grade 0% - 15% 15% - 25% 25% - 35% > 35% Site Area (Sq Yds) 237842.43 10058.85 4676.20 8369.01 260946.50 % of Site Area 91.15% 3.85% 1.79% 3.21% 100.00% There is an assortment of tree species within the site; only five of the identified trees were measured over 24 caliper inches. On-site soils include Type D Expansive Clays and is identified as Ferris-Heiden City of Austin | Environmental Commission Variance Application Guide 2 April 10, 2024 complex, Heiden clay, and Type B Altoga Silty Clay by the USGS …
STASSNEY PARK 6200 E STASSNEY LANE SPC-2023-0110C Mike McDougal Environmental Policy Program Manager Development Services Department STASSNEY PARK 6200 E Stassney Ln North NTS PROPERTY DATA • Williamson Creek Watershed • Suburban Watershed Classification, Desired Development Zone • Austin Full Purpose • Council District 2 • Not Located over Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone EXISTING CONDITIONS EXISTING CONDITIONS - CONTINUED EXISTING CONDITIONS - CONTINUED CWQZ Slopes >15% North NTS VARIANCES REQUESTED 1. Request to vary LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut up to 24 feet 2. Request to vary LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill up to 23 feet 3. Request to vary LDC 25-8-301 to allow driveway construction on a gradient in excess of 15% NTS VARIANCES REQUESTED - CONTINUED 1. Request to vary LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut up to 24 feet 2. Request to vary LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill up to 23 feet 3. Request to vary LDC 25-8-301 to allow driveway construction on a gradient in excess of 15% NTS GRADING VARIANCE FINDINGS IN SUMMARY • Variances for grading have been granted for similar projects. • Grading is a design decision but the project provides greater environmental protection with increased landscaping, increased creek restoration, and increased Critical Water Quality Zone restoration. • The project does not create a significant probability of harmful environmental consequences. • The variance will result in water quality that is at least equal to the water quality achievable without the variance. SLOPES VARIANCE FINDINGS IN SUMMARY • Variances for driveway construction on slopes have been granted for sites with similar constraints. • Driveway construction on slopes is necessary to allow for a reasonable use of the property and is not a design decision. • The project does not create a significant probability of harmful environmental consequences. • The variance will result in water quality that is at least equal to the water quality achievable without the variance. STAFF DETERMINATION AND CONDITIONS APPLICANT PRESENTATION
Environmental Inspections Division Residential Tree & Environmental Inspections Commercial Tree & Environmental Inspections/ General Permit Inspections Environmental Enforcement Underground Storage Tanks (UST) Boat Docks Inspection and Enforcement Territories Commercial Residential Services Provided • Evaluate best management practices for erosion/sedimentation control and tree preservation • Assess compliance with City of Austin ordinances • Review drainage facilities and other site improvements Services Provided • Identify locations of environmentally sensitive resources • Provide technical assistance and education to citizens, community/special interest groups, developers, etc. on environmental/engineering code requirements, ordinances, and regulations • Provide testimony for enforcement cases in municipal court • Issue directives and initiate enforcement actions for non-compliance with environmental and drainage regulations Temporary Erosion and Sediment Control What is it? How does it work? Where is it installed? The practice of preventing or reducing the movement of sediment from a site during construction Through implementation of human-made structures, land management techniques, or natural processes At the perimeter of the construction site Types of ESC’s Silt Fencing: Fabric filter support by welded wire and anchored by posts Mulch Socks: Mesh tubes filled with natural wood or mulch (no hay or straw) Triangular Filter Dike: Prefabricated “tri-dikes” that are easy to install Stabilized Construction Entrance (Standard 641S) The purpose of a stabilized construction entrance is to reduce or eliminate the tracking or deposition of sediment onto public right-of-way, street, alley, sidewalk or parking area (Environmental Criteria Manual Section 1.4.2.N.4). • All trees, brush, stumps, obstructions and other objectionable material shall be removed and disposed of in a manner that will not interfere with the excavation and construction of the entrance as indicated on the Drawings or as presented in Standard Details No. 641S-1. The entrance shall not drain onto the public right-of-way or shall not allow surface water runoff to exit the construction site. • When necessary, vehicle wheels shall be cleaned to remove sediment prior to entrance onto public right-of-way. When vehicle washing is required, it shall be done on an area stabilized with crushed stone, which drains into an approved sediment trap or sediment basin. All sediment shall be prevented from entering any storm drain, ditch or watercourse through use of sandbags, gravel, boards, silt fence (Standard Specification Item No 642S) or other methods approved by the Engineer or designated representative. • The entrance shall be maintained in a condition that will prevent tracking or disposition of sediment onto public right-of-way. …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MOTION 20240605-003 Date: June 5, 2024 Subject: Discussion and recommendation of Austin Water (AW) Capital Improvement Projects located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone for approval to include in AW’s 5-year capital spending plan as required by AW Financial Policy #8. Motion by: Jennifer Bristol Seconded by: Perry Bedford RATIONALE: WHEREAS, the City of Austin Water Utility presented and updated the Environmental Commission on new and existing growth-related Capital Improvement Program (CIP) projects located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone; and WHEREAS, the Austin Water Utility provides adequate drinking water and reliable systems for current and future customers. THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends approval of the request for inclusion of the CIP projects in Austin Water Utility’s 5-year capital spending budget. VOTE: 8-0 For: Perry Bedford, Richard Brimer, Jennifer Bristol, Peter Einhorn, Mariana Krueger, Colin Nickells, Haris Qureshi, David Sullivan Against: None Abstain: None Recuse: None Absent: Hanna Cofer and Melinda Schiera Approved By: Perry Bedford, Environmental Commission Chair 1
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MOTION 20240605-003 Date: June 5, 2024 Subject: Bird-friendly design and building solutions Motion by: Jennifer Bristol Seconded by: Perry Bedford RATIONALE: WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission was given a presentation about Bird Safe Design by Heidi Trudell, Bird Safe Design Specialist with support from Travis Audubon; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the City of Austin was named a Bird City in February 2023; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes that over 400 species of birds reside or migrate through Travis County every spring and fall. Both endangered species and species of concern both utilize the Central Flyway and geological way finders of the Balcones Escarpment and Colorado River during their migration; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the hills of Austin and Travis County are home to the endangered Golden-cheeked Warbler and threatened Black-capped Vireo; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the City of Austin benefits from the annual $1.8 billion generated from bird tourism in Texas; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes birds colliding with poorly designed buildings results in up to 2 million birds dying in the US every year; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes that more than 30 cities have adopted bird-safe design practices into their code and/ or practices. However, no city in Texas has yet to adopt these design practices, which means Austin could lead the way; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes that habitat loss for nesting and wintering birds also has a negative impact; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes that the loss of insects due to the use of pesticides, diminishes food supply for birds. THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends the City of Austin take the following actions: 1 1. The Environmental Commission will form a working group to study best practices and make recommendations about what code changes could be made to support bird-safe design. 2. The Environmental Commission requests that Council pass a resolution directing staff to support the working group. 3. The City will strive to be the FIRST city in Texas to be a bird-safe design city. 4. City of Austin will continue to require all new construction or remodels of both low-rise and high-rise buildings utilize, at a minimum, bird-friendly glass and downcast, Dark Skies lighting. 5. The City of Austin will limit the use of pesticides on all city managed properties, especially during peak migration and nesting seasons. 6. The City of Austin …
in a REGULAR meeting on ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, June 5, 2024 The ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION convened Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Bedford called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Perry Bedford, Jennifer Bristol, Richard Brimer, Peter Einhorn, Haris Qureshi, and David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Colin Nickells and Mariana Krueger Commissioners Absent: Hanna Cofer and Melinda Schiera PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Speakers Santiago Kathy Mitchell APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on May 15, 2024. The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular meeting on May 15, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Einhorn’s motion, Commissioner Qureshi’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Bristol abstained. Commissioners Cofer and Schiera were absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and recommendation of Austin Water Capital Improvement Projects located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone for approval to include in the 5-year Capital spending plan as required by Financial Policy #8 – Frida Guo, Financial Manager II, Austin Water The Environmental Commission took a ten-minute recess at 6:16 P.M. Chair Bedford called the meeting to order at 6:26 P.M 1 2. PUBLIC HEARINGS A motion to recommend the approval of the request for inclusion of the CIP projects in Austin Water Utility’s 5-year capital spending budget passes on Commissioner Bristol’s motion, Commissioner Bedford’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Cofer and Schiera were absent. Presentation, discussion, and recommendation on bird-friendly design and building solutions from Travis Audubon – Heidi Trudell, requested by Commissioner Bristol Speakers Craig Nazor Maura Powers A recommendation regarding bird-friendly design and building solutions approved on Commissioner Bristol’s motion, Commissioner Bedford’s second on an 7-0 vote. Commissioner Nickells abstained. Commissioners Cofer and Schiera were absent. Name: 290 Parmer Industrial – 2, SP-2023-0401C Applicant: Ryan Taylor, Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. Location: 10095 E US 290 Hwy Service Road EB Austin, Texas Council District: District 1 Staff: David Michael, Environmental Review Specialist Senior, Development Services Department Applicant request: Variance request is to A) vary from LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut up to 15 feet and B) vary from LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill up to 16 feet. Staff recommendation: Staff recommends approval of the variances with conditions Speakers Ryan Taylor, Civil Engineer, Kimley-Horn A motion to close the public hearing was approved on Commissioner Einhorn’s motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second on an …
Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission May 15, 2024 at 6:00 PM Permitting And Development Center, Events Center, Room 1405 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Environmental Commission will be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Elizabeth Funk, Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov no later than noon, the day before the meeting. The following information is required: speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, email address and telephone number (must be the same number that will be used to call into the meeting). Colin Nickells Jennifer Bristol, Secretary David Sullivan Richard Brimer Perry Bedford, Chair CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Haris Qureshi Peter Einhorn Mariana Krueger Melinda Schiera Hanna Cofer, Vice Chair AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on May 1, 2024. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Update on the 2023 State of the Environment Report and 2023 Watershed Protection Annual Report – Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer, and Anupa Gharpurey, Assistant Director, Watershed Protection Department PUBLIC HEARINGS 3. 4. 5. Name: 3 Men Movers, SP-2023-0294C Applicant: Hollis Scheffler – Westwood Professional Services Location: 9989 E US 290 Hwy Service Road EB, Austin, TX 78744 Council District: District 5 Staff: Ryan Soutter, Environmental Review Specialist Senior, Development Services Department Applicant request: Request to vary from a) LDC 25-8-301 to allow driveway construction on slopes greater than 15%; b) LDC 25-8-302 to allow building and parking construction on slopes over 15%; c) LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut up to 12 feet; and d) LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill up to 15 feet. Staff recommendation: Staff recommends approval of the variances with conditions Name: Sunfield PUD Amendment #1; Case No. C814-2014-0083.01 Applicant: Katherine P. Loayza, Jackson Walker L.L.P. Location: 1901 Turnersville …
M E M O R A N D U M Mayor and Council Members Robert Goode, P.E., Assistant City Manager Jorge L. Morales, P.E., CFM, Director, Watershed Protection Department May 9, 2024 TO: THROUGH: FROM: DATE: SUBJECT: 2023 State of Our Environment Report The Watershed Protection Department (WPD) is sharing our 2023 State of Our Environment Report. This annual report has been the duty of the Environmental Officer to present to the City Manager and City Council since 1997, as per Austin City Code 25-1-45(C). Although the format of the State of Our Environment Report has evolved over time, it currently exists as a web-based report with information about the current condition of Austin’s natural resources and how they have changed over time. A Spanish version is also available online through the link below. Please view the report at: www.austintexas.gov/environment. This report has typically included the following metrics from across many departmental missions, including: • • Urban Forest; • Public Open Space; • Wildlands; • Climate Change; and • Air Quality. Lakes, Creeks, and Aquifers; WPD is appreciative of the staff in Parks and Recreation Department’s Park Planning Division, Development Services Department’s Community Tree Preservation Division, Austin Water’s Wildlands Division, and the Office of Sustainability for their assistance and continued collaboration to allow us to bring these important metrics together in one annual report. If you would like additional information or have feedback on the 2023 report, please contact Liz Johnston, Acting Environmental Officer, at (512) 974-2619 or Liz.Johnston@austintexas.gov. cc: T.C. Broadnax, City Manager Liz Johnston, Acting Environmental Officer, Watershed Protection Department Page 1 of 1
9989 E US 290 Hwy Service Road 3 Men Movers SP-2023-0294C 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. Project Location Property Data • Austin Full Purpose Jurisdiction • Desired Development Zone • Gilleland Creek Watershed (Suburban Watershed) • Not located over Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone • No Critical Environmental Features, Wetlands, or Critical Water Quality Zones on site • 5.415 Acres • Council District 1 Variance Request § 25-8-341 - CUT REQUIREMENTS (A) Cuts on a tract of land may not exceed four feet of depth. - The variance request is to allow cut from 4 to 12 feet. § 25-8-342 - FILL REQUIREMENTS (A) Fill on a tract of land may not exceed four feet of depth. - The variance request is to allow fill from 4 to 15 feet. Variance Request • § 25-8-301 - CONSTRUCTION OF A ROADWAY OR DRIVEWAY • (A) A person may not construct a roadway or driveway on a slope with a gradient of more than 15 percent. • - The variance request is to allow roadway on a slope with a gradient of more than 15 percent. • § 25-8-302 - CONSTRUCTION OF A BUILDING OR PARKING AREA • (A) A person may not construct a building or parking structure on a slope with a gradient of more than 25 percent. • -The variance request is to allow building and parking area on slopes greater than 25 percent. Historical Site Usage • Circa 2008 the site was used as a spoils area for nearby road construction which created the increased elevation and steep slopes. Approx. 2003 Approx. 2008 Variance Findings • Variances for grading and construction on slopes have been granted • for projects with similar site constraints, specifically road development guidelines and topographic conditions created from historic use as a spoils site. The variance: • • • Is necessitated by topographic features, not design choice; Is the minimum deviation from …
ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA May 15, 2024 3 MEN MOVERS SP-2023-0294C COMMISSION MEETING DATE: NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: HOLLIS SCHEFFLER – WESTWOOD PROFESSIONAL SERVICES LOCATION: 9989 E US 290 Hwy Service Road EB, Austin, TX 78744 COUNCIL DISTRICT: District #1 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW STAFF: Ryan Soutter, Environmental Review Specialist Senior, Development Services Department, (512) 974-1665, ryan.soutter@austintexas.gov WATERSHED: Gilleland Creek Watershed, Suburban, Desired Development Zone REQUEST: Variance requests are as follows: 1. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-301 to allow driveway construction on slopes greater than 15%; 2. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-302 to allow building and parking construction on slopes over 15%; 3. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut up to 12 feet; and 4. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill up to 15 feet. Staff recommends these variances, having determined the findings of fact to have been met. • Terrace and vegetate steep slopes. • Provide enlarged parking lot islands (3) that are approximately 17 feet wide for improved tree growth. • Provide enhanced tree mitigation (5 additional trees). STAFF RECOMMENDATION: STAFF CONDITION: Development Services Department Staff Recommendations Concerning Required Findings Project Name: 3 Men Movers Ordinance Standard: 25-8-301 Construction of a Roadway of Driveway Variance Request: Driveway construction on slopes greater than 15% 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 or the safety of property given to owners of other similarly situated property with approximately contemporaneous development; Yes Similarly situated properties with similar development type and subject to the same code requirements have received variances for grading in excess of four feet. These developments are all large developments located in the Desired Development Zone. Grading over four feet is necessary to create level finished-floor elevations and level loading docks and to maintain drives at minimal grades for maneuverability. Examples of similar projects include: Applied Materials Logistics Service Center, at 9614 US-290, Austin, TX 78724, (SP-2020-0321C), which was allowed cut to 12 feet for a 16-acre warehouse; Crossroads Logistics Center, at 8400 E Parmer Ln, Manor, TX 78653, (SP-2021-0015D), which was allowed cut to 14.3 feet and fill to 16.5 feet for three buildings totaling 11 acres of warehouse space; Park 183 Buildings 6 & 7, at 4800 Distribution Dr, Austin, TX 78744, (SP-2021-0072C), which was allowed fill to 17 …
COMMISSION MEETING DATE: ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA May 15th, 2024 Case No. C814-2014-0083.01; Sunfield PUD Amendment #1 Katherine P. Loayza, Jackson Walker L.L.P. NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: LOCATION: COUNCIL DISTRICT: District 5 1901 Turnersville Road ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW STAFF: Leslie Lilly, Environmental Conservation Program Manager, Watershed Protection Department, Leslie.Lilly@austintexas.gov WATERSHED: REQUEST: STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Suburban Watershed, Onion Creek, Rinard Creek, Plum Creek, To amend a Planned Unit Development (PUD) Staff recommended with conditions STAFF CONDITION: 1. This project shall comply with current PUD requirements, except for the following exceptions: a. Section 25-8-341 modified to allow cut up to20 ft b. Section 25-8-342 modified to allow fill up to 20 ft c. Modification of protected CWQZs as shown in Exhibit F to Land Use Plan d. Modification industrial/warehouse us on approximately 91 acres. to permit a light 2. The project shall incorporate bird-friendly design criteria into the development including compliance with the following Austin Energy Green Building Star Rating System criteria for: a. ST7 Light Pollution Reduction; b. STEL5 Bird Collision Deterrence 3. Water quality treatment will adhere to current COA code requirements. Where feasible, the project shall be designed to direct stormwater to vegetated pervious areas before water enters the gray stormwater system, including but not limited to swales, filter strips, infiltration trenches and infiltration basins. 4. The project will require 10% more trees than minimally required by the current PUD ordinance and current code regulations. 5. The project will provide enhanced stabilization measures including terracing and retaining walls for areas exceeding 8 feet of cut or fill. 6. A minimum of 100 square feet of landscape islands for every 12 parking spaces will be provided. The landscape islands will be a minimum of 10 feet wide. 7. A minimum of two electric vehicle charging stations per multi- family apartment complex will be provided in parking lots adjacent to multi-family apartments. 2 ZONING CHANGE REVIEW SHEET DISTRICT: 5 CASE: C814-2014-0083.01 – Sunfield PUD Amendment, ZONING FROM / TO: PUD, to permit industrial uses, update provisions for water service, increase impervious cover, reconfigure the location and massing of affordable housing units within residential portions of the PUD, and request modifications to cut and fill requirements. ADDRESS: 1901 Turnersville Road, southwest corner of Turnersville Road and South Turnersville Road SITE AREA (Total): 482.5 acres (PUD); 91 acres (PUD amendment area) PROPERTY OWNER: Sunfield Investments LLC; Sunfield Development …
Sunfield PUD 1901 Turnersville Road C814-2014-0083.01 (PUD Amendment) Leslie Lilly Environmental Conservation Program Manager Watershed Protection C I T Y O F A U S T I N W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T Planned Unit Development Amendment A Planned Unit Development (PUD) is a type of site development and regulatory process established by city ordinance for a tract of land. The Sunfield PUD was approved by council in 2015, consisting of 482.5 acres. The applicant is requesting a PUD Amendment to: • permit industrial uses (increase in IC allowances) • update provisions for water service • • modify cut and fill requirements reconfiguration of affordable housing units C I T Y O F A U S T I N W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T C 8 1 4- 2 0 1 4- 0 0 8 3 . 0 1 C I T Y O F A U S T I N W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T Site Conditions • Located in Full Purpose Jurisdiction • Adjacent to Amazon • 482.5 acres • Suburban Watershed • Not in Edwards Aquifer Recharge or Contributing Zone • Plum Creek and Rinard Creek Watersheds • Wetland CEFs • Minor CWQZs • Floodplain C I T Y O F A U S T I N W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T C I T Y O F A U S T I N W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T 5 Land Use and Slopes C I T Y O F A U S T I N W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T Environmental Exhibit …
ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA May 15, 2024 January Drive Flood Risk Reduction Project – SP-2022-0531D Claudia Corsetti – Capital Delivery Service Department COMMISSION MEETING DATE: NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: LOCATION: 11605 – 11509 February Drive Austin, Texas 78753 COUNCIL DISTRICT: District 1 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW STAFF: Eric Brown, PG – Hydrogeologist – Watershed Protection Department WATERSHED: Walnut Creek, Watershed Regulation Area - Suburban, DDZ REQUEST: To allow construction of drainage infrastructure within 50-feet of seep/spring Critical Environmental Feature (CEF) STAFF RECOMMENDATION: STAFF CONDITION: Recommended with Conditions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Repair rill erosion throughout the area, Place Grow Zone signs at 100 ft intervals, 30 ft from back of curb, Expand native planting and seeding throughout the Grow Zone area, and native seeding in the area between the Grow Zone and the curb (no plantings outside of the Grow Zone; sod area for stabilization can remain), Ensure that placement of topsoil, temporary irrigation and weed management are included with the restoration, Remove remaining driveway aprons and replace with curb and gutter. Staff Findings of Fact Watershed Protection Department Staff Recommendations Concerning Required Findings Project Name & Case Number: January Drive Flood Risk Reduction Project – SP-2022- 0531D Ordinance Standard: Watershed Protection Ordinance Variance Request: LDC 25-8-281(C)(2)(b) - To allow construction within 50 feet of a Rimrock and Seep Critical Environmental Features (CEF) . 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. Watershed Protection Department proposes a project to reduce the risk of flooding for the Four Season Subdivision Neighborhood. The new stormwater drainage system must be installed to direct stormwater flows away from existing properties and into the ROW. The development is necessary for the health and safety of the citizens of the City of Austin. The denial of the requested variance for the proposed project will preclude the construction of a stormwater facility necessary to relieve the neighborhood of flooding. The variance is being requested to allow for drainage improvements and continued maintenance and operation of the stormwater system. The variance: a) Is not necessitated by the scale, layout, construction method, or other design decision made by the applicant, unless the …
WALNUT CREEK - JANUARY DRIVE FLOOD REDUCTION PROJECT SP-2022-0531D Eric Brown Hydrogeologic Reviewer Watershed Protection Department PROPERTY DATA • WALNUT CREEK WATERSHED • WATER SUPPLY URBAN CLASSIFICATION • CRITICAL ENVIRONMENTAL FEATURES ON SITE • COUNCIL DISTRICT 1 BACKGROUND • • HISTORIC FLOODING CONCERNS FOR FOUR SEASONS NEIGHBORHOOD UPSIZE OF STORMWATER INFRASTRUCTURE AND ABANDONMENT IN PLACE OF EXISTING INFRASTRUCTURE CODE REFERENCE •TITLE 25 – LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE, CHAPTER 25-8-281(C)(2)(B). VARIANCE REQUEST REQUEST TO VARY FROM LDC 25-8- 281(C)(2)(B) TO ALLOW CONSTRUCTION WITHIN 50-FOOT OF SEEP AND RIMROCK CRITICAL ENVIRONMENTAL FEATURE (CEF) SETBACKS. SEEP HORIZON SEEP HORIZON and RIMROCK EXISTING 24” OUTFALL. HEADWALL TO REMAIN 24” will remain in place 30” will be upsized to 48” VARIANCE RECOMMENDATION FINDING OF FACTS HAVE BEEN MET. STAFF RECOMMENDS THE APPROVAL OF THIS VARIANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS BELOW: • • • • • REPAIR RILL EROSION THROUGHOUT THE AREA, PLACE GROW ZONE SIGNS AT 100 FT INTERVALS, 30 FT FROM BACK OF CURB, EXPAND NATIVE PLANTING AND SEEDING THROUGHOUT THE GROW ZONE AREA, AND NATIVE SEEDING IN THE AREA BETWEEN THE GROW ZONE AND THE CURB (NO PLANTINGS OUTSIDE OF THE GROW ZONE; SOD AREA FOR STABILIZATION CAN REMAIN), ENSURE THAT PLACEMENT OF TOPSOIL, TEMPORARY IRRIGATION AND WEED MANAGEMENT ARE INCLUDED WITH THE RESTORATION, REMOVE REMAINING DRIVEWAY APRONS AND REPLACE WITH CURB AND GUTTER. RESTORATION PLAN QUESTIONS?
Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission May 15, 2024 at 6:00 PM Permitting And Development Center, Events Center, Room 1405 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Environmental Commission will be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Elizabeth Funk, Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov no later than noon, the day before the meeting. The following information is required: speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, email address and telephone number (must be the same number that will be used to call into the meeting). Colin Nickells Jennifer Bristol, Secretary David Sullivan Richard Brimer Perry Bedford, Chair CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Haris Qureshi Peter Einhorn Mariana Krueger Melinda Schiera Hanna Cofer, Vice Chair AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on May 1, 2024. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Update on the 2023 State of the Environment Report and 2023 Watershed Protection Annual Report – Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer, and Anupa Gharpurey, Assistant Director, Watershed Protection Department PUBLIC HEARINGS 3. 4. 5. Name: 3 Men Movers, SP-2023-0294C Applicant: Hollis Scheffler – Westwood Professional Services Location: 9989 E US 290 Hwy Service Road EB, Austin, TX 78744 Council District: District 5 Staff: Ryan Soutter, Environmental Review Specialist Senior, Development Services Department Applicant request: Request to vary from a) LDC 25-8-301 to allow driveway construction on slopes greater than 15%; b) LDC 25-8-302 to allow building and parking construction on slopes over 15%; c) LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut up to 12 feet; and d) LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill up to 15 feet. Staff recommendation: Staff recommends approval of the variances with conditions Name: Sunfield PUD Amendment #1; Case No. C814-2014-0083.01 Applicant: Katherine P. Loayza, Jackson Walker L.L.P. Location: 1901 Turnersville …
2. in a REGULAR meeting on ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, May 1, 2024 The ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION convened Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Bedford called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Perry Bedford, Richard Brimer, Jennifer Bristol, Peter Einhorn, Haris Qureshi, and David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Hanna Cofer, Mariana Krueger, Colin Nickells, Melinda Schiera Commissioners Absent: None PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on March 20, 2024 and the Special Called Meeting on March 28, 2024. The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular meeting on March 20, 2024 were approved on Commissioner Brimer’s motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Krueger, Qureshi, and Schiera were off the dais. The minutes of the Environmental Commission Special Called meeting on March 28, 2024 were approved on Commissioner Brimer’s motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner’s Bristol and Nickells abstained. Commissioners Qureshi and Schiera were off the dais PUBLIC HEARINGS Name: Bridle Ridge at Wildhorse Ranch, C8-2023-0259 Applicant: Kimley Horn (Kevin Burks) Location: 10501 ½ Blue Bluff Rd, Austin, TX 78653 1 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Council District: District 1 Staff: Pamela Abee-Taulli, Environmental Program Coordinator, Development Services Department Applicant request: Request to vary from a) 25-8-341 to allow cut over four (4) feet, to 15 feet and b) 25-8-342 to allow fill over four (4) feet, to 15 feet. Staff recommendation: Staff recommends approval of the variances with conditions Speakers: Pamela Abee-Taulli Kevin Burks Liz Johnston A motion to close the public hearing was approved on Commissioner Bedford’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Cofer was off the dais. A motion to approve the requested variances with conditions was approved on Commissioner Bristol’s motion, Commissioner Bedford’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Cofer was off the dais. Approve a recommendation on an ordinance amending City Code Title 25 related to development regulations applicable to residential re-subdivisions and multi-family residential site development of five to sixteen units – Brent Lloyd, Development Officer, Development Services Department Speakers: Brent Lloyd Liz Johnston Matt Hollon Vice Chair Bedford called a recess at 8:07. Vice Chair Bedford reconvened the meeting at 8:15. Commissioner Bristol made a motion to recommend the Infill Plats & Site Plan Lite, Part 2 code …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240515-003 Date: May 15, 2024 Subject: 3 Men Movers Variances, SP-2023-0294C Motion by: Perry Bedford WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the applicant is requesting: Second by: Haris Qureshi 1. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-301 to allow driveway construction on slopes greater than 2. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-302 to allow building and parking construction on slopes 15%; over 15%; 3. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut up to 12 feet 4. Request to vary from LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill up to 15 feet. AND WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the site is located in Gilleland Creek Watershed, Suburban Classification; and THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends the variance request with the following conditions: Staff Conditions: 1. Terrace and vegetate steep slopes. 2. Provide enlarged parking lot islands (3) that are approximately 17 feet wide for improved tree growth. 3. Provide enhanced tree mitigation (5 additional trees). Environmental Commission Conditions: 1. Plant native plants and trees that are consistent with Blackland prairie species throughout the property, not just on terraces and slopes. 2. Retain as many existing native species trees as possible. 3. Have a tree maintenance plan to ensure that planted trees and vegetation can become established (minimum 5 year plan.) 4. Research the feasibility of adding solar power to the property where possible/practical. Vote: 8-0 For: Perry Bedford, Hanna Cofer, Peter Einhorn, Mariana Krueger, Colin Nickells, Haris Qureshi, Melinda Schiera, David Sullivan 1 of 2 Against: None Abstain: Richard Brimer Absent: Jennifer Bristol Attest: Perry Bedford, Environmental Commission Chair 2 of 2
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240515-004 Date: May 15, 2024 Subject: Sunfield PUD Amendment #1, C814-2014-0083.01 Motion by: Perry Bedford WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the applicant is requesting to amend a PUD; AND WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the site is located in Onion Creek, Rinard Creek and Plum Creek Watersheds, Suburban Classification; and THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends the variance request with the following conditions: Staff Conditions: Second by: Mariana Krueger 1. This project shall comply with current PUD requirements, except for the following exceptions: a. Section 25-8-341 modified to allow cut up to20 ft b. Section 25-8-342 modified to allow fill up to 20 ft c. Modification of protected CWQZs as shown in Exhibit F d. Modification to Land Use Plan to permit a light industrial/warehouse use on approximately 91 acres. 2. The project shall incorporate bird-friendly design criteria into the development including compliance with the following Austin Energy Green Building Star Rating System criteria for: a. ST7 Light Pollution Reduction; b. STEL5 Bird Collision Deterrence 3. Water quality treatment will adhere to current COA code requirements. Where feasible, the project shall be designed to direct stormwater to vegetated pervious areas before water enters the gray stormwater system, including but not limited to swales, filter strips, infiltration trenches and infiltration basins. 4. The project will require 10% more trees than minimally required by the current PUD ordinance and current code regulations. 5. 5. The project will provide enhanced stabilization measures including terracing and retaining walls for areas exceeding 8 feet of cut or fill. 6. A minimum of 100 square feet of landscape islands for every 12 parking spaces will be provided. The landscape islands will be a minimum of 10 feet wide. 1 of 2 7. A minimum of two electric vehicle charging stations per multifamily apartment complex will be provided in parking lots adjacent to multi-family apartments. Environmental Commission Conditions: 1. Research the feasibility of adding solar power to the property where practical/possible. 2. Continue to work with Capital Metro about adding access to public transformation at the property as the project progresses. 3. 10 percent of all parking shall be pre-wired for electric vehicle capability. Vote: 8-1 For: Perry Bedford, Hanna Cofer, Peter Einhorn, Mariana Krueger, Colin Nickells, Haris Qureshi, Melinda Schiera, David Sullivan Against: Richard Brimer Abstain: None Absent: Jennifer Bristol Attest: Perry Bedford, Environmental Commission Chair 2 of 2
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240515-005 Date: May 15, 2024 Subject: January Drive Flood Risk Reduction Project, SP-2022-0531D Motion by: Perry Bedford WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the applicant is requesting to allow construction of drainage infrastructure within 50-feet of seep/ spring Critical Env Feature (CEF); AND WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the site is located in Walnut Creek, Suburban Development Zone; THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends the variance request with the following conditions: Staff Conditions: Second by: Peter Einhorn 1. Repair erosion throughout area. 2. Place Grow Zone Signs at 100 ft intervals, 30 ft from curb. 3. Expand native planting and seeding throughout the Grow Zone and the curb (no plantings outside of the Grow Zone; sod area for stabilization can remain.) 4. Ensure that placement of topsoil, temp irrigation and weed management are included with the restoration. 5. Remove remaining driveway aprons and replace with curb and gutter. Vote: 9-0 For: Perry Bedford, Richard Brimer, Hanna Cofer, Peter Einhorn, Mariana Krueger, Colin Nickells, Haris Qureshi, Melinda Schiera, David Sullivan Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Jennifer Bristol Attest: Perry Bedford, Environmental Commission Chair 1 of 1
in a REGULAR meeting on ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, May 15, 2024 The ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION convened Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Bedford called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Perry Bedford, Richard Brimer, Hanna Cofer, Peter Einhorn, Mariana Krueger, Haris Qureshi, and David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Colin Nickells, Melinda Schiera, and David Sullivan Commissioners Absent: Jennifer Bristol PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on May 5, 2024. The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular meeting on May 5, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Brimer’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Bristol was absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Update on the 2023 State of the Environment Report and 2023 Watershed Protection Annual Report – Liz Johnston, Interim Environmental Officer, and Anupa Gharpurey, Assistant Director, Watershed Protection Department Speakers: Liz Johnston Anupa Gharpurey Jorge Morales Kaela Champlin Ramesh Swaminathan 1 PUBLIC HEARINGS 3. Chair Bedford called for a recess at 6:27. Chair Bedford reconvened the meeting at 6:37. Item conducted as posted. No action was taken. Name: 3 Men Movers, SP-2023-0294C Applicant: Hollis Scheffler – Westwood Professional Services Location: 9989 E US 290 Hwy Service Road EB, Austin, TX 78744 Council District: District 1 Staff: Ryan Soutter, Environmental Review Specialist Senior, Development Services Department Applicant request: Request to vary from a) LDC 25-8-301 to allow driveway construction on slopes greater than 15%; b) LDC 25-8-302 to allow building and parking construction on slopes over 15%; c) LDC 25-8-341 to allow cut up to 12 feet; and d) LDC 25-8-342 to allow fill up to 15 feet. Staff recommendation: Staff recommends approval of the variances with conditions Speakers: Ryan Soutter Justin Lange Liz Johnston Mike McDougal A motion to close the public hearing passed on Commissioner Einhorn’s motion, Commissioner Brimer’s second on a 9–0 vote. Commissioner Bristol was absent. A motion to approve the requested variances with conditions passed on Commissioner Bedford’s motion, Commissioner Qureshi’s second on an 8–0 vote. Commissioner Brimer abstained. Commissioner Bristol was absent. Name: Sunfield PUD Amendment #1; Case No. C814-2014-0083.01 Applicant: Katherine P. Loayza, Jackson Walker L.L.P. Location: 1901 Turnersville Road Council District: District 5 Staff: Leslie Lilly, Environmental Conservation Program Manager, Watershed Protection Department Applicant request: To amend a Planned Unit Development (PUD) Staff …
Regular Meeting of the Environmental Commission May 1, 2024 at 6:00 PM Permitting And Development Center, Events Center, Room 1405 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Environmental Commission will be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Elizabeth Funk, Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov no later than noon, the day before the meeting. The following information is required: speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, email address and telephone number (must be the same number that will be used to call into the meeting). Colin Nickells Jennifer Bristol, Secretary David Sullivan Richard Brimer Perry Bedford, Vice Chair CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Haris Qureshi Peter Einhorn Mariana Krueger Melinda Schiera Hanna Cofer AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1 APPROVAL OF MINUTES PUBLIC HEARINGS Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on March 20, 2024 and the Special Called Meeting on March 28, 2024. Name: Bridle Ridge at Wildhorse Ranch, C8-2023-0259 Applicant: Kimley Horn (Kevin Burks) Location: 10501 ½ Blue Bluff Rd, Austin, TX 78653 Council District: District 1 Staff: Pamela Abee-Taulli, Environmental Program Coordinator, Development Services Department Applicant request: Request to vary from a) 25-8-341 to allow cut over four (4) feet, to 15 feet and b) 25-8-342 to allow fill over four (4) feet, to 15 feet. Staff recommendation: Staff recommends approval of the variances with conditions DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Approve a recommendation on an ordinance amending City Code Title 25 related to development regulations applicable to residential re-subdivisions and multi-family residential site development of five to sixteen units – Brent Lloyd, Development Officer, Development Services Department Election of Environmental Commission Officers for the May 1, 2024 through April 30, 2025 term. Approve a recommendation supporting the City Council’s code resolutions for Home 2 (allowing 2,000 …
in a REGULAR meeting on ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, March 20, 2024 The ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION convened Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Bedford called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Perry Bedford, Richard Brimer, Jennifer Bristol, Hanna Cofer, Colin Nickells, and David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Mariana Krueger Commissioners Absent: Peter Einhorn, Haris Qureshi, Melinda Schiera, and Kevin Ramberg PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Santiago, I35 projects Shiang Lee, How You Can Benefit from the Inflation Reduction Act APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on March 6, 2024 The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular meeting on March 6, 2024 were approved on Commissioner Sulivan’s motion, Commissioner Brimer’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Einhorn, Ramberg, Qureshi, and Schiera were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. Presentation on the South Central Waterfront Combining District with a Density Bonus – April Geruso of the City of Austin Planning Department. Speakers: April Geruso, Planning Department Vice Chair Bedford called for a recess at 6:39. Vice Chair Bedford reconvened the meeting at 6:47. 1 3. 4. Chad Sharrad, Planning Department Tyler Tripp, Planning Department Item conducted as posted. No action taken. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Consider a recommendation on the budget recommendations from the Joint Sustainability Committee – Presented by Haris Qureshi and David Sullivan, Environmental Commission Members A motion to support the budget recommendations from the Joint Sustainability Committee was approved on Commissioner Sullivan’s motion, Commissioner Brimer’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Nickells abstained. Commissioners Einhorn, Ramberg, Qureshi, and Schiera were absent. COMMITTEE UPDATES Update from the Urban Forestry Committee on adding a discussion on ghost trees to the March 28th agenda – Richard Brimer Item conducted as posted. No action taken. Update from the South Central Waterfront Advisory Board on the status of the Combining District & Density Bonus Program and Planned Unit Development applications – David Sullivan Item conducted as posted. No action taken. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Commissioner Sullivan wanted to discuss IH35 and requested a presentation from staff on the environmental impacts of the IH35 expansion and the benefits of capping, seconded by Commissioner Brimer. Commissioner Bristol requested a presentation from Audubon on bird-safe buildings, which was seconded by Commissioner Bedford. ADJOURNMENT Vice Chair Bedford adjourned the meeting at 7:50 P.M. 2
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28, 2024 The ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION convened in a SPECIAL CALLED meeting on Thursday, March 28, 2024 at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas 78752. Vice Chair Bedford called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Perry Bedford, Rick Brimer, Peter Einhorn, Melinda Schiera Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Hanna Cofer, Mariana Krueger, David Sullivan Commissioners Absent: Jennifer Bristol, Haris Qureshi, Colin Nickells, Kevin Ramberg PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 1. Presentation on Watershed Protection Department's Fiscal Year 2024 Budget, Programs, and Projects Overview and approve recommendations for their FY25 budget — Anupa Gharpurey, Financial Manager, and Pam Kearfott, Managing Engineer, Watershed Protection Department Speakers: Jorge Morales, Director, Watershed Protection Department Anupa Gharpurey, Financial Manager, Watershed Protection Department Pam Kearfott, Managing Engineer, Watershed Protection Department A motion to make recommendations for Watershed Protection’s Fiscal year 2025 budget was approved on Commissioner Bedford’s motion, Commissioner Einhorn’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Bristol, Qureshi, Nickells, and Ramberg were absent. Vice Chair Bedford adjourned the meeting at 7:11 p.m. without objection. 1
Pamela Abee-Taulli Environmental Program Coordinator Development Services Department BRIDLE RIDGE AT WILDHORSE RANCH 10501 ½ BLUE BLUFF RD C8-2023-0259 PROJECT LOCATION Site Location Austin ETJ Austin City Limits Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone Edwards Aquifer Contributing Zone 2 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[ PROPERTY DATA • Gilleland Creek Watershed • Suburban Classification • Desired Development Zone • Austin Full Purpose Jurisdiction • Council District 1 • Wildhorse Ranch Planned Unit Development (PUD) 3 [ PROJECT DATA • Single family residential development with roadways and storm water ponds. • 21.4 acres [ ENVIRONMENTAL DATA • Wetland Critical Environmental Features (CEF) • Critical Water Quality Zone (CWQZ) CEF CWQZ [ ENVIRONMENTAL DATA • Wetland Critical Environmental Features (CEF) • Critical Water Quality Zone (CWQZ) • Slopes • 86% of the site is 0-15% slopes, but very hilly CEF CWQZ 2-foot contours [ ENVIRONMENTAL DATA CWQZ [ VARIANCE REQUESTS 8 § 25-8-341 - CUT REQUIREMENTS. (A) Cuts on a tract of land may not exceed four feet of depth. • The variance request is to allow cut over 4 feet to15 feet. § 25-8-342 - FILL REQUIREMENTS. (A) fill on a tract of land may not exceed four feet of depth. • The variance request is to allow fill over 4 feet to 15 feet. VARIANCE REQUESTS [ VARIANCE RECOMMENDATION • Variances for grading have been granted for projects with similar site constraints, specifically topographic conditions that constrain the ability to comply with transportation and ADA regulations. • The variance • • • Is necessitated by topographic features, not design choice; Is the minimum deviation from the code; and Is unlikely to result in harmful environmental consequences. • Water quality will be equal to water quality without the variance. 10 VARIANCE CONDITIONS 1. Slope stabilization for areas of existing erosion adjacent to the lots, will be provided with grouted rip-rap or approved equivalent method. [ VARIANCE CONDITIONS 2. Slope stabilization in area of cut over 8 feet will be provided by terracing, 25 feet at 15% grade …
ITEM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AGENDA COMMISSION MEETING DATE: May 1, 2024 NAME & NUMBER OF PROJECT: Bridle Ridge at Wildhorse Ranch C8-2023-0259 NAME OF APPLICANT OR ORGANIZATION: Kimley Horn (Kevin Burks) LOCATION: 10501 ‰ BLUE BLUFF RD, Austin, TX 78653 COUNCIL DISTRICT: District One ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW STAFF: Pamela Abee-Taulli, Environmental Program Coordinator Development Services Department 512.974.1879 / pamela.abee-taulli@austintexas.gov WATERSHED: REQUEST: STAFF RECOMMENDATION: STAFF CONDITIONS: Gilleland Creek Watershed, Suburban Classification, Desired Development Zone Variance request is as follows: Request to vary from: 1) 25-8-341 to allow cut over four (4) feet, to 15 feet. 2) 25-8-342 to allow fill over four (4) feet, to 15 feet. Staff recommends this variance, having determined the findings of fact to have been met. 1. Slope stabilization for areas of existing erosion adjacent to the lots, will be provided with grouted rip-rap or approved equivalent method. 2. Slope stabilization in area of cut over 8 feet will be provided by terracing, 25 feet at 15% grade and 20 feet at 5% grade, and revegetation with native grasses and forbs (per Standard Specifications Manual 609S.5). 3. Fill over 8 feet will be contained with engineered walls. 4. The water quality ponds will be biofiltration ponds. Page 1 of 15 Development Services Department Staff Recommendations Concerning Required Findings Project Name: Bridle Ridge at Wildhorse Ranch Ordinance Standard: Comprehensive Watershed Ordinance and Wildhorse Ranch Planned Unit Development (PUD) Variance Request: Request to vary from: 1) 25-8-341 to allow cut over four (4) feet, to 15 feet. 2) 25-8-342 to allow fill over four (4) feet, to 15 feet. A. Land Use Commission variance determinations from Chapter 25-8-41 of the City Code: 1. The requirement will deprive the applicant of a privilege or the safety of property given to owners of other similarly situated property with approximately contemporaneous development; Other owners with similarly situate properties and contemporaneous development Yes have received similar variances for grading. Turner’s Crossing (C8J-2018-0091) with cut and fill to 15 feet, Northwind Apartments (SP-2021-0384C.SH) with cut to 12 and fill to 17 feet, and Blueridge Multifamily at Wildhorse Ranch (SP-2022-0426C.SH) with cut to 12 and fill to 10 feet, are all residential projects on sites with rolling topography generally within the 0-15% slope category. In order to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requiring 2% cross slope at intersection crosswalks on the local and collector roadways, and to meet Transportation Criteria Manual (TCM) …
Infill Plats & Site Plan Lite, Part 2: Overview of Staff Proposal Codes & Ordinances Joint Committee | April 1, 2024 Brent Lloyd, DSD Development Officer Agenda Items • Discuss proposed code amendments for: 1. Infill Plats 2. Site Plan Lite, Part 2 • Questions & Answers Infill Plats Subdivision Overview Subdivision Plats • The division of land into one or more lots for the purpose of sale, transfer, development, or extension of utilities. • Unless an exception applies, only land within an approved subdivision plat may be developed. • Infrastructure and amenities dedicated at subdivision serve multiple lots, which can then be developed independently. — Commercial & Residential Subdivisions Subdivision Overview (cont’d) Subdivision Types and Order of Process • Preliminary Plan • Final Plat • Subdivision Construction Plans • Re-subdivision Effect of Subdivision on Residential Development • “Fee Simple” Ownership vs. “Condominium Regimes” Greenfield Subdivision Subdivision Construction Plan - Build Infrastructure Residential Subdivision Infill Plats – Challenges • In the platting context, “infill” is the re- subdivision of lots in existing single-family subdivisions into new, smaller lots. • Current regulations, particularly drainage & water quality, are tailored to greenfield subdivisions rather than residential infill. Infill Plat Process - Council Direction Goals of Resolution No. 20230504-023: • Establish an efficient process to create infill lots within residential subdivisions, thereby facilitating fee-simple ownership and small-lot development form. • Right-size regulations to the scale and intensity of infill development. • Explore making waivers and variances administrative. • Include other changes to facilitate creation of infill lots. Subdivision-Related Improvements Adopted in 2023 Ordinance No. 20230831-141 • Eliminated commission approvals for plats, which means all applications without variances may be approved by staff. • Streamlined application submittal requirements. • Extended application deadlines. • Modified flag lot regulations. Summary of Infill Plat Proposal Response to Resolution No. 20230504-023 • Targeted changes to regulations for residential resubs. aimed at: — Making the process more efficient and less costly for small-lot developments that are comparable in scale & intensity to development currently permitted under HOME 1. — Ensuring that drainage requirements are: Right-sized to infill development Sufficient to ensure that development does not increase risk of lot-to-lot flooding. Infill Plat Proposal (cont’d) Drainage Plan In-Lieu of Onsite Detention & Drainage Studies • For resubdivisions of platted residential lots, onsite detention & drainage studies would not be required for development that: — Does not exceed: (b) …
C20-2023-045 ORDINANCE AMENDMENT REVIEW SHEET Amendment: C20-2023-045 Site Plan Lite, Phase 2 & Infill Plats Description: These proposed amendments to respond to separate council initiatives: Resolution No. 20221201-048 (“Site Plan Lite”) and Resolution No. 20230504-023 (“Infill Plats”). The amendments, which will be included in a single ordinance, facilitate development of missing middle housing. Background: — Site Plan Lite Phase 2 On December 1, 2022, City Council approved Resolution No. 20221201-048 initiating Land Development Code (“LDC”) amendments to facilitate the creation of missing middle housing by scaling site plan review requirements for residential projects of three to sixteen units. As Phase 1 of the project, Council adopted Ordinance No. 20230720-158 on July 20, 2023, creating a site plan exemption for projects having four or fewer residential units. For a few months following passage of the ordinance, DSD required projects utilizing the new process to obtain formal “site plan exemptions,” which is an added step beyond obtaining a residential building permit. Following passage of the initial HOME amendments, which modified the definition of “multi-family,” DSD now routes projects of one to three units directly to residential review without requiring a site plan exemption. These proposed amendments would complete Council’s direction from Resolution No. 20221201-048 by establishing a more streamlined review process for projects of 5 to 16 units located on a single lot. — Infill Plats On May 4, 2023, Council approved Resolution No. 20230504-023 initiating LDC amendments to facilitate the creation of infill lots within existing residential subdivisions, with the goal of expanding opportunities for “fee simple” ownership and easing the impact of non-zoning regulations on residential re-subdivisions. The proposed amendments would achieve this objective by modifying non-zoning regulations for infill development, thereby establishing a more streamlined review process. Summary of Proposed Code Amendment: 1 Below is a general summary of amendments proposed to implement the Infill Plat and Site Plan Lite resolutions. C20-2023-045 Modified Drainage Regulations I. — Background LDC Sec. 25-8-211(B)(3) exempts development with up to 8,000 square feet of impervious cover from the requirement to provide water quality controls on sites located outside of the Barton Springs Zone. However, the code provides no similar exemption for drainage regulations. This means that infill re-subdivisions and small-scale site plans are required to meet detention standards similar to those required for large-scale multi-family and commercial projects. The proposed amendments would tailor drainage regulations more closely to the scale and intensity of …
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240501-005 Date: May 1st, 2024 Subject: Home 2, reduced compatibility standards, higher density housing near future light rail lines, and site development standards for EV charging Motion by: Second by: WHEREAS, evidence produced by researchers at the University of California at Berkeley1 (https://coolclimate.berkeley.edu/ ) indicates that higher population density in urban areas leads to lower greenhouse gas emissions per household, based on energy savings from shared walls in duplexes, townhomes, apartments, and condominiums, and based on better walkability, more mass transit use, and more trips made with bikes and scooters, AND WHEREAS, low-density urban sprawl consumes valuable grassland prairies, tree covered hill country, and other rural landcapes, AND WHEREAS, the Austin City Council is considering changes to the City Code Title 25 Land Development Code to: • Allow smaller lot sizes (2,000 square feet) in single-family zoning districts, • Create regulations that allow properties to be used for charging electric vehicles, • Create regulations, including a density bonus program that modifies height and compatibility in exchange for community benefits, for properties that are located within a half mile of the planned Phase 1 Light Rail and Priority Extensions (also known as the Equitable Transit-Oriented Development (ETOD) overlay), • Revise regulations that apply to flag lots and small lots, • Revise height, building placement, and other related regulations that apply to property and are in addition to the base zoning regulations (also known as Compatibility Standards), reducing the extent of compatibility regulations to 75 ft. All of these will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions directly or subsequently with higher population density. THEREFORE, The Environmental Commission recommends endorsing these changes to the City Code Title 25 Land Development Code and offers the following additional recommendations: 1 Christopher M. Jones and Daniel M. Kammen, Spatial Distribution of U.S. Household Carbon Footprints Reveals Suburbanization Undermines Greenhouse Gas Benefits of Urban Population Density. Environ. Sci. Technol., 2014, 48 (2), pp 895–902. 1 of 2 • Loosening development restrictions to allow denser housing could lead to the involuntary displacement of low-income renters, and the City should track this displacement and take steps to assist in relocating displaced tenants. If possible, the City should take steps to incentivize new higher density housing in high opportunity neighborhoods near jobs and existing mass transit. • • Over time, the City should track changes in transit use, micromobility use, walkability in new higher density developments to verify …
Population Density and Greenhouse Gas Emissions per Household Dr. David W. Sullivan The University of Texas at Austin Center for Energy and Environmental Resources Cell 512-914-4710; Email sullivan231@mail.utexas.edu Details • Researchers at Univ. California at Berkeley have published studies on greenhouse gas emissions per household in the U.S. • They maintain a Website at https://coolclimate.berkeley.edu. • Coolclimate maps show that the inner city areas of big cities have the lowest greenhouse gas emissions per household, owing to lower energy consumption & shorter/fewer motor vehicle trips. • In their analysis of the U.S. by zip code, the researchers found lower emissions per household in denser areas, but the relationship was weak (R2 = 0.04). Emissions / Household vs Zip Code Population Density Problem • As the graph shows there is a wide range of emission rates at low population densities. This is because there are many small towns where trips may be shorter and consumption lower so emissions are low, whereas there are also many suburbs with low density but lots of driving and high consumption with high emissions. • I downloaded the data and averaged the zipcodes with similar densities and got better results. • I selected the zip codes in the Austin 5-county MSA and also got better results. Emissions / Household vs Zip Code Population Density bins at 10,000 person increments (R2 = 0.26) Emissions / Household vs Zip Code Population Density 80 Austin MSA Zip Codes (R2 = 0.39) (R2 = 0.34), excluding UT West Campus
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MOTION 20240501-002 Date: May 1, 2024 Subject: Bridle Ridge at Wildhorse Ranch C8-2023-0259 Motion by: Jennifer Bristol Seconded by: Perry Bedford WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the applicant is requesting two variances 1) 25-8-341 to allow cut over four (4) feet, to 15 feet. 2) 25-8-342 to allow fill over four (4) feet, to 15 feet. WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the site is located in Gilleland Creek Watershed, Suburban Classification; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes that Staff recommends the variance with conditions. THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends the variance request with the following conditions: Staff Conditions: 1. Slope stabilization for areas of existing erosion adjacent to the lots, will be provided with grouted rip-rap or approved equivalent method. 2. Slope stabilization in area of cut over 8 feet will be provided by terracing, 25 feet at 15% grade and 20 feet at 5% grade, and revegetation with native grasses and forbs (per Standard Specifications Manual 609S.5). 3. Fill over 8 feet will be contained with engineered walls. 4. The water quality ponds will be biofiltration ponds. 1. Environmental Commission Conditions:Review the carrying capacity of water/ electric/ sewer to accommodate additional units per lot in reference to Home-2 Code changes if that Code passes City Council. 2. Reduce the impervious cover and reduce the need for the cut and fill by removing or reducing the houses in the dark green / steepest slopes area. 3. Utilize the HOA guidelines to insure the native plants are utilized throughout the property not just on the terracing. 4. Plant native trees on the housing lots that are naturally found in the blackland prairie. 5. Increase the native flowers and shrubs that support pollinators. 1 6. Provide home owners education or signage that helps them understand when it is best to mow or not mow to better support pollinators and migratory birds. VOTE: 9-0 For: Perry Bedford, Jennifer Bristol, Richard Brimer, Peter Einhorn, Mariana Krueger, Colin Nickells, Haris Qureshi, Melinda Schiera, David Sullivan Against: None Recuse: None Absent: Hanna Cofer Perry Bedford, Environmental Commission Chair Attest: 2
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MOTION 20240501-003 Date: May 1, 2024 Subject: Infill Plat and Site Lite Part 2 Amendments Motion by: Jennifer Bristol Seconded by: Mariana Kruger WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the Code Amendments related to Home-2 known as Infill Plats and Site Lite Part 2 are a compilation of directives from City Council; WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission has been given a presentation from Staff on Infill Plats and Site Plan Lite; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes that Staff recommends these amendments. THEREFORE, the Environmental Commission recommends the code amendments with the following Environmental Commission recommendations and comments: 1. Request that the City Council recognize that the Environmental Commission was not involved in the review and recommendation of the Code changes. 2. The Environmental Commission was not provided a copy of the Code to review before or 3. The Environmental Commission is concerned that these Code changes inequitably may at the meeting. impact low-income neighborhoods. 4. The Environmental Commission was only presented watershed and drainage information and not how this impacts tree protections, tree canopy reduction, light pollution, or increase to utilities, including wastewater. 5. The Environmental Commission is concerned about how this impacts homes in the local flooding areas or homes that are on the edge of the floodplains. 6. The Environmental Commission is concerned about neighbor-to-neighbor flooding due to poor drainage, including “ghost drainage” that is done without permits. 7. The Environmental Commission was not presented the study that surveyed the size of lots in the neighborhoods and what areas would be impacted the most. 8. How was the community involved in the Code changes? 9. Request that the public is well informed in multiple ways about the new changes, how that will impact them, and how they can utilize the Code legally. 10. Request that the public is made aware of the process for adjacent homeowners to protest or improve changes to a neighbor’s lot. 11. The Environmental Commission is concerned about the increase of administrative approval rather than citizen-driven boards and commissions. 12. The Environmental Commission is in favor of increasing access to affordable homes and increasing density where possible. 1 For: Perry Bedford, Jennifer Bristol, Richard Brimer, Peter Einhorn, Mariana Krueger, Colin Nickells, Haris Qureshi, Melinda Schiera Against: None Abstain: David Sullivan Recuse: None Absent: Hanna Coffer VOTE: 8-0 Approved By: Perry Bedford, Environmental Commission Chair 2
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240501-005 Date: May 1st, 2024 Subject: HOME-2 and Population Density and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Motion by: David Sullivan Second by: Peter Einhorn WHEREAS, researchers at the University of California at Berkeley1 (https://coolclimate.berkeley.edu/) indicate that higher population density in urban areas leads to lower greenhouse gas emissions per household, based on energy savings from shared walls in duplexes, townhomes, apartments, and condominiums, improved walkability, more mass transit use, and more trips made with bikes and scooters, AND WHEREAS, low-density urban sprawl consumes valuable grassland prairies, tree-covered hill country, farmland, and other rural landscapes, and encroaches on wildlife habitat, AND WHEREAS, the Austin City Council is considering changes to the City Code Title 25 Land Development Code to: • Allow smaller lot sizes (2,000 square feet) in single-family zoning districts, • Create regulations that allow properties to be used for charging electric vehicles, • Create regulations, including a density bonus program that modifies height and compatibility in exchange for community benefits, for properties that are located within a half mile of the planned Phase 1 Light Rail and Priority Extensions (also known as the Equitable Transit- Oriented Development (ETOD) overlay), • Revise regulations that apply to flag lots and small lots, • Revise height, building placement, and other related regulations that apply to property and are in addition to the base zoning regulations (also known as Compatibility Standards), reducing the extent of compatibility regulations to 75 ft. AND WHEREAS, all of these will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions directly or subsequently with higher population density. THEREFORE, The Environmental Commission recommends endorsing these changes to the City Code Title 25 Land Development Code and offers the following additional recommendations: • Because loosening development restrictions to allow denser housing could lead to the involuntary displacement of low-income renters, the City shall track this displacement and take steps to assist in relocating displaced tenants. 1 Christopher M. Jones and Daniel M. Kammen, Spatial Distribution of U.S. Household Carbon Footprints Reveals Suburbanization Undermines Greenhouse Gas Benefits of Urban Population Density. Environ. Sci. Technol., 2014, 48 (2), pp 895–902. 1 of 2 • If possible, the City shall take steps to incentivize new higher-density housing in high- opportunity neighborhoods near jobs and existing mass transit. • The City shall track changes in transit use, micromobility use, and walkability in new higher-density developments to verify the predicted emission savings on an annual basis and report …
in a REGULAR meeting on ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, May 1, 2024 The ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION convened Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Bedford called the Environmental Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Perry Bedford, Richard Brimer, Jennifer Bristol, Peter Einhorn, Mariana Krueger, Haris Qureshi, and David Sullivan Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Hanna Cofer, Colin Nickells, Melinda Schiera Commissioners Absent: None PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular Meeting on March 20, 2024 and the Special Called Meeting on March 28, 2024. The minutes of the Environmental Commission Regular meeting on March 20, 2024 were approved on Commissioner Brimer’s motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Krueger, Qureshi, and Schiera were off the dais. The minutes of the Environmental Commission Special Called meeting on March 28, 2024 were approved on Commissioner Brimer’s motion, Commissioner Sullivan’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner’s Bristol and Nickells abstained. Commissioners Qureshi and Schiera were off the dais PUBLIC HEARINGS Name: Bridle Ridge at Wildhorse Ranch, C8-2023-0259 Applicant: Kimley Horn (Kevin Burks) Location: 10501 ½ Blue Bluff Rd, Austin, TX 78653 Council District: District 1 1 2. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Staff: Pamela Abee-Taulli, Environmental Program Coordinator, Development Services Department Applicant request: Request to vary from a) 25-8-341 to allow cut over four (4) feet, to 15 feet and b) 25-8-342 to allow fill over four (4) feet, to 15 feet. Staff recommendation: Staff recommends approval of the variances with conditions Speakers: Pamela Abee-Taulli Kevin Burks Liz Johnston A motion to close the public hearing was approved on Commissioner Bedford’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Cofer was off the dais. A motion to approve the requested variances with conditions was approved on Commissioner Bristol’s motion, Commissioner Bedford’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Cofer was off the dais. Approve a recommendation on an ordinance amending City Code Title 25 related to development regulations applicable to residential re-subdivisions and multi-family residential site development of five to sixteen units – Brent Lloyd, Development Officer, Development Services Department Speakers: Brent Lloyd Liz Johnston Matt Hollon Vice Chair Bedford called a recess at 8:07. Vice Chair Bedford reconvened the meeting at 8:15. Commissioner Bristol made a motion to recommend the Infill Plats & Site Plan Lite, Part 2 code …
Special Called Meeting of the Environmental Commission March 28, 2024 at 6:00 PM Permitting And Development Center, Events Center, Room 1405 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, Texas 78752 Some members of the Environmental Commission will be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Elizabeth Funk, Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov no later than noon, the day before the meeting. The following information is required: speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, email address and telephone number (must be the same number that will be used to call into the meeting). CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Haris Qureshi Peter Einhorn Mariana Krueger Melinda Schiera Hanna Cofer AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Colin Nickells Jennifer Bristol, Secretary Kevin Ramberg, Chair David Sullivan Richard Brimer Perry Bedford, Vice Chair PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 1. Presentation on Watershed Protection Department's Fiscal Year 2024 Budget, Programs, and Projects Overview and approve recommendations for their FY25 budget — Anupa Gharpurey, Financial Manager, and Pam Kearfott, Managing Engineer, Watershed Protection Department ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Elizabeth Funk, Watershed Protection Department, at (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov, Watershed Protection Department, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Environmental Commission, please contact Elizabeth Funk, (512) 568-2244, Elizabeth.Funk@austintexas.gov, Watershed Protection Department. 2
Watershed Protection Department FY24 Budget, Programs, and Projects 1 Overview ◦ Mission & Organizational Structure ◦ FY24 Budget Highlights ◦ Programmatic Activities ◦ Capital Improvement Program ◦ Project Highlights ◦ Resources 2 Mission & Organizational Structure 3 Our Department & Mission Established in 1991, Watershed Protection Department was charged with the goal of managing the City’s creeks, drainage systems and water quality programs. Our Mission: “…to protect the lives, property, and environment of our community by reducing the impact of floods, erosion, and water pollution.” Our Funding: Primary Source: Drainage Charge - >94% Other sources: Bonds (for Capital Projects), Development Fees, Interest Income, Grants 4 WPD Organizational Structure Watershed Protection Total FTEs: 442.5 Planning, Monitoring, & Compliance FTEs: 105.5 Project Design & Delivery FTEs: 62 Field Operations FTEs: 173 Support Services FTEs: 102 5 FY24 Budget Highlights 6 FY 2024 Budget Expenses by Program Total Budget: $114.7 Million Other Transfers 19.2 Projects Design and Delivery 8.6 Planning, Monitoring, & Compliance 14.6 Transfer to CIP 28.0 Support Services 15.8 Field Operations 28.5 7 Programmatic Activities 8 Funding Sources • Operations ◦ Drainage Utility Charge Based on Amount and Percent of Impervious cover ◦ Other Fees and Interest Income Site plans, subdivisions, MUD, PUDs; Permit Fees • Capital Projects ◦ Cash transfer from operations ◦ GO bonds ◦ Grants ◦ Tax Increment Financing ◦ RSMP and USCF Payments 9 FY24 Funding Source and Uses Funding Sources Revenue Source Drainage Utility Charge Development, licenses and permit Fees Interest Income and other misc. revenue Total Funding Uses Funding uses Personnel Cost Other program costs Transfers Total $Millions 104.1 1.4 5.2 110.7 $Millions 48.8 18.7 47.2 114.7 10 Watershed Operational Activities • Drainage infrastructure maintenance • Trash and debris removal • Land management & ponds maintenance 11 Watershed Operational Activities • Pollution prevention and response • Floodplain modeling and development review • Environmental policy and planning • Environmental research and data analysis 12 Watershed Operational Activities • Storm event monitoring • Replenishing creek beds • Community education and outreach 13 Capital Improvement Program 14 Capital Improvement Program: Overview ◦ Projects in the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) are major improvements to our infrastructure, facilities, and waterways ◦ CIP projects have a higher price tag and longer lifespan than routine maintenance or in-house projects funded through the operating budget Storm drain improvement project 15 Capital Improvement Program: Priorities Flooding in the Onion Creek watershed ◦ …
