From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Fahnestock, Sam " " Knox Lane -- Relocation Permit--July 3 Thursday, June 27, 2024 10:34:44 AM ; External Email - Exercise Caution Mr. Fahnestock, Below are my comments for inclusion in the July 3rd Commissioner packet. Also I wish to register to speak by phone. The pertinent registration information is at the end of this email. Dear Members, I object to the proposed relocation permit for the property at 7304 Knox Lane. James E. Jarrett 7301 Running Rope Austin, TX 78731 Comments: My objections about relocation of the Knox house are four-fold. 1. Relocation does not preserve the house which has been the centerpiece of a large part of the nearby Northwest Hills land. This house has been a major landmark for several generations of Northwest Hills families. As a homeowner that can see the dwelling from my property, I can attest that for at least 32 years it has been decorated during the holidays as a gingerbread house. Not only have nearby families come by on foot to view the spectacle but cars often were parked on Knox Lane so that children and their parents could view this special structure. 2. Communication by the developer and his team with neighbors has been abysmal. I know of only two meetings that have occurred: February 2013 and July 2015. Nothing has been shared in 9 years. And while the postponement from the June 5th meeting to this July 3rd meeting supposedly was to allow time for providing residents an opportunity to meet with the developer, he has not reached out to schedule anything with us on Running Rope, the street that will be most affected. At the May 1 Commission meeting, the developer mentioned he had met with someone from the Northwest Austin Civic Association (NWACA). No date was given. Besides this obvious omission, Commission members should know that NWACA traditionally has never become involved as either a proponent or an opponent of proposed new developments in Northwest Hills. 3. 20 ADUs—Nothing has been communicated by either the developer or the City of Austin about this to my knowledge. We do not know if they have been approved, if these 20 ADUs would be in lieu of, or in addition to, the original 13 single family homes proposed. 4. The traffic situation from the original 13 proposed homes would be bad enough. (There are no sidewalks …
June 27, 2024 City of Austin P.O Box 1088 Austin, Tx 78767 Subject Property: 7304 Knox Lane Dear City of Austin, Please see the attached documentation and application for the relocation of 7304 Knox Lane primary residence. In reference, to the attached Exhibits A, B, and C, that support and reveal the owner’s longstanding communication with the current neighborhood. In fact, over the years the petitioner has stayed in close communication with the neighborhood’s Mr. Charlie Galvin and the rest of the NWACA Board, refer to Exhibit B, email communication. On May 1, 2024 during the HLC meeting Mr. Hector Rivero, communicated that as a resident of the neighborhood he was not aware of this project. So, the petitioner postponed being placed on the agenda for June until Mr. Rivero’s questions were answered. After multiple attempts to schedule a time to meet with him and the neighborhood we did not hear back. Yet, the owner has over the years already met with the leadership and has a longstanding relationship with this neighborhood. The owner has kept the NWACA Team up to date and communication is also placed in the newsletter. We are asking the Historic Land commission to grant us the ability to relocate this house and help another family. Please refer to Exhibit A, in reference to the subdivision that was reviewed and processed by the City of Austin Staff and does meet the City of Austin’s code requirements. In Exhibit C, please find the contractor who has signed an affidavit communicating a successful relocation is possible. We look forward to working with you on these lots. Please let me know if you have any questions or need further information. Sincerely, Ricca Keepers, MUP Keepers Land Planning Exhibit A Exhibit B Exhibit C AFFIDAVIT OF KEVIN WOODWORTH STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF TRAVIS § § § BEFORE ME, the undersigned authority, a notary public in and for the State of Texas, on this day personally appeared Kevin Woodworth known to me, and who, after being by me duly sworn on oath stated: “My name is Kevin Woodworth, I am over the age of 21 years, I have personal knowledge of the facts stated herein, which are all true and correct, and am fully competent to make this Affidavit. I am President of Blue Moon Builders. I have contracted with the owner of the property located at 7304 Knox Lane, …
From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Fahnestock, Sam Re: Knox Lane Development: July 3 Meeting Tuesday, July 2, 2024 12:43:28 PM ; External Email - Exercise Caution To whom it may concern: My name is Christopher Spandikow. My wife, twin 8-year old children, and I live at 7219 Running Rope. I completely agree with Mr Fitzhugh’s assessment provided in his email. I won’t repeat those same points here. Instead, I’ll offer my proof-point. My family also has not been in contact with Mr. Jimmy Nassour even though we live right next to the Fitzhugh and across from the Knox property. I respectfully recommend the committee to not take Mr. Nassour’s word on topics going forward, but would instead suggest that the committee seek proof of all of his claims. Thank you for your consideration and service. Best Regards, Christopher Spandikow Good morning, Mr. Fitzhugh, On Thu, Jun 27, 2024 at 9:18 AM Fahnestock, Sam <Sam.Fahnestock@austintexas.gov> wrote: Thank you for writing your concerns. I will upload your comments for the Commission to review ahead of the meeting. Thank you, Sam Fahnestock Planner II | he/him City of Austin | Planning Department P: (512) 974-3393 E: sam.fahnestock@austintexas.gov 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive, Austin, Texas > From: Champe Fitzhugh < Sent: Wednesday, June 26, 2024 1:38 PM To: Historic Preservation Office <Preservation@austintexas.gov>; Fahnestock, Sam <Sam.Fahnestock@austintexas.gov> Cc: Jack Richards < Betsy Clements < Subject: Knox Lane Development: July 3 Meeting >; > ; ; ; Some people who received this message don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution To whom it may concern: My name is Champe Fitzhugh, and I live with my wife and our 3 boys at 7221 Running Rope. We are directly across the street from the entrance to the short Knox Lane cul-de-sac which ends at the Knox property. At the July 3 meeting, it is my understanding that Mr. Jimmy Nassour intends to speak. Apparently Mr. Nassour represented that he has had several meetings with nearby residents regarding his plan to redevelop the historic Knox property. If that is the case, and I do not believe it is, those meetings did not involve us, despite our being directly impacted by the proposed plans. The development “plans” continue to experience mission creep. Mr. Nassour now apparently proposes 20 ADUs rather than the original single-family home project. Of course all of his plans have …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION DEMOLITION AND RELOCATION PERMITS SEPTEMBER 4, 2024 PR-2024-096343; GF-2024-101131 5303 SAMUEL HUSTON AVENUE 25 – 1 PROPOSAL Demolish a ca. 1963 church. ARCHITECTURE RESEARCH The main sanctuary is an A-frame structure with vertical stained glass, stacked-limestone cladding, and a central entrance beneath a simple gabled portico. The attached fellowship hall is a one-story extension with a compound hipped and gabled roof and limestone cladding over CMU. Rehoboth Primitive Baptist Church was founded in 1962, according to the Church history archived on the congregation’s website. A group of church elders from two different worship groups met at what was likely the Giese-Stark Store on San Bernard Street to discuss their vision, and by July of 1962, they had broken ground on a new church building at 5303 Samuel Huston Avenue. After the first pastor, Reverend R. H. Howard, left the church in 1967, Reverend R. D. Reese led the congregation until his death in 2005.1 In a 2019 writeup on Mid-Century Modern churches across the state, Preservation Texas defined these structures’ importance to our built environment: In the years following World War II, a mobile and growing population in Texas found the need to build new churches and synagogues in urban, suburban, and even small rural communities across the state. Texas architects designed new structures that reflected a modern age, employing innovative construction methods and new materials resulting in striking progressive sacred places. But in recent years, urban populations have changed, and the demands of 21st- century congregations often cannot be contained in the buildings of the mid-twentieth century. As a result, Midcentury Modern Sacred Places are threatened with destruction as congregations relocate or consolidate and their often-valuable property is sold for redevelopment.2 As a neighborhood-scale place of worship built during this age of evolving modernism, the Rehoboth Primitive Baptist Church’s Mid-Century Modern design language of sweeping eaves and dramatically tapering roofline reflects its founding congregation’s innovation in their desire to unite and uplift their community. PROPERTY EVALUATION Designation Criteria—Historic Landmark 1) The building is more than 50 years old. 2) The building appears to retain high integrity. 3) Properties must meet two criteria for landmark designation (LDC §25-2-352). Staff has evaluated the property and determined that it may meet two criteria for landmark designation: a. Architecture. The building is a good example of mid-century Modern ecclesiastical architecture on a neighborhood scale. b. Historical association. The property is …
Equity-Based Preservation Plan Learning from Our Past to Shape a Future for Everyone 2024 Austin, Texas Preservation Plan Working Group Historic Landmark Commission Vision for Historic Preservation Historic preservation in Austin actively engages communities in protecting and sharing important places and stories. Preservation uses the past to create a shared sense of belonging and to shape an equitable, inclusive, sustainable, and economically vital future for all. These images represent community heritage to Austinites: Lunar New Year celebrations, Mayfield Park, the landmarked Mary Baylor House in Clarksville, a Mexican American celebration at the Capitol, Barton Hills homes, Huston-Tillotson University. Preservation Plan Working Group Michelle Benavides Linda Y. Jackson Leslie Ornelas 1 Noel Bridges 1 Julia Brookins* Meghan King* Emily Payne Jolene Kiolbassa 1 Rocio Peña-Martinez* Brita Wallace* 1 Amalia Carmona 2 Kevin Koch Misael Ramos* 1 Bob Ward 1 Ursula A. Carter Kelechi Madubuko 1 Mary Reed* 1 Caroline Wright 1 Maria Solis* 1 Erin Waelder 1 Mary Jo Galindo* 1 Brenda Malik Jerry Garcia 1 Hanna Huang* 1 Alyson McGee 1 Debra Murphy 2 Lori Renteria 1 Gilbert Rivera 1 JuanRaymon Rubio 2 * Drafting Committee member 1 Phase 1 member only 2 Phase 2 member only The Preservation Plan Working Group included 26 community members who developed this draft plan in phase 1. Land Acknowledgment Land acknowledgments are a practice to recognize Indigenous Peoples as original stewards of the land who still have an enduring relationship with their traditional territories. We include this acknowledgment in the Equity-Based Preservation Plan as an expression of gratitude and appreciation to those whose territory we reside on and a way of honoring the Indigenous Peoples who have lived and worked on the land known as Austin, Texas. Land acknowledgments do not exist in the past tense or historical context. Colonialism is a current and ongoing process, and we need to be mindful that we are participating in it by living on colonized land. To ensure meaningful recognition and inclusion of Indigenous Peoples, more work needs to happen as part of the implementation of this plan. We acknowledge, with respect, that the land known as Texas has been home to many groups for more than 16,000 years. These include the Tonkawa, the Mescalero Apache, the Lipan Apache, the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo (Tigua people), the Texas Band of Yaqui Indians, the Coahuiltecan, the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas, the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas, the …
CASE NUMBER: C14H- 2024-0115 HLC DATE: September 4, 2024 PC DATE: TBD CC Date: TBD ZONING CHANGE REVIEW SHEET APPLICANT: Phoebe Allen (owner-initiated) HISTORIC NAME: Freida and Walter Bohn House WATERSHED: Shoal Creek ADDRESS OF PROPOSED ZONING CHANGE: 906 W. 17th Street ZONING CHANGE: SF-3 to SF-3-H COUNCIL DISTRICT: 9 STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the proposed zoning change from family residence (SF-3) to family residence-historic landmark (SF-3-H) combining district zoning. QUALIFICATIONS FOR LANDMARK DESIGNATION: architecture and historical associations. HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION ACTION: PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: CITY COUNCIL ACTION: CASE MANAGER: Kalan Contreras, 512-974-2727 NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANIZATIONS: Austin Independent School District, Austin Lost and Found Pets, Austin Neighborhoods Council, Capital Metro, Del Valle Community Coalition, East Austin Conservancy, El Concilio Mexican- American Neighborhoods, Friends of Austin Neighborhoods, Greater East Austin Neighborhood Association, Guadalupe Association for an Improved Neighborhood, Guadalupe Neighborhood Development Corporation, Homeless Neighborhood Association, Neighborhood Empowerment Foundation, Neighbors United for Progress, Organization of Central East Austin Neighborhoods, Plaza Saltillo TOD Staff Liaison, Preservation Austin, SELTexas, Sierra Club, Austin Regional Group, Tejano Town BASIS FOR RECOMMENDATION: § 25-2-352(3)(c)(i) Architecture. The property embodies the distinguishing characteristics of a recognized architectural style, type, or method of construction; exemplifies technological innovation in design or construction; displays high artistic value in representing ethnic or folk art, architecture, or construction; represents a rare example of an architectural style in the city; serves as an outstanding example of the work of an architect, builder, or artisan who significantly contributed to the development of the city, state, or nation; possesses cultural, historical, or architectural value as a particularly fine or unique example of a utilitarian or vernacular structure; or represents an architectural curiosity or one-of-a-kind building. The Frieda & Walter Bohn House is an excellent example of a Craftsman bungalow designed by Austin luminary Hugo Kuehne. Notably, Kuehne worked on the building twice, as he designed the initial structure and returned, more than twenty years later, to add stylistic updates as the Bohn family’s needs changed. The application for historic zoning, compiled by Phoebe Allen, describes the building’s architectural merits: The Frieda & Walter Bohn House was built in 1924 on Outlot 16 on Seventeenth Street between San Gabriel and Pearl Streets…An asymmetrical wing plan, the house has a wood frame; upper walls are stucco with wood trim, and the lower story is brown brick veneer. There is one central, interior brick chimney…The low-pitched, metal gable roof with rafter …
CASE NUMBER: PR-2024-064274; GF-2024-073040 ZONING CHANGE REVIEW SHEET HLC DATES: July 3, 2024; August 7, 2024; September 4, 2024 PC DATE: TBD CC Date: TBD APPLICANT: Historic Landmark Commission (owner-opposed) HISTORIC NAME: East End Saloon/Eisenbeiser’s; 1500 Club/1500 Beauty and Barber Shop WATERSHED: Boggy Creek ADDRESS OF PROPOSED ZONING CHANGE: 1500 East 12th Street ZONING CHANGE: CS-MU-NCCD-NP to CS-MU-H-NCCD-NP (Central East Austin NP) COUNCIL DISTRICT: 1 STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Recommend historic zoning to Planning Commission and City Council. Otherwise, require a City of Austin Documentation Package before releasing the demolition permit. QUALIFICATIONS FOR LANDMARK DESIGNATION: architecture, community value, and historical associations. HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION ACTION: July 3, 2024 – initiate historic zoning (10-0) PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: CITY COUNCIL ACTION: CASE MANAGER: Kalan Contreras, 512-974-2727/kalan.contreras@austintexas.gov NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANIZATIONS: Austin Independent School District, Austin Lost and Found Pets, Austin Neighborhoods Council, Davis-Thompson, Del Valle Community Coalition, East Austin Conservancy, Friends of Austin Neighborhoods, Homeless Neighborhood Association, Neighborhood Empowerment Foundation, Neighbors United for Progress, Organization of Central East Austin Neighborhoods , Preservation Austin, Residents of E 12th St, SELTexas, Sierra Club, Austin Regional Group, Urban Renewal Board of the City of Austin DEPARTMENT COMMENTS: The 2016 East Austin Historic Resource Survey lists the property as eligible for local landmark listing based on historical associations and community value, and individual listing on the National Register of Historic Places for its significance in the area of land development and community planning. BASIS FOR RECOMMENDATION: § 25-2-352(3)(c)(i) Architecture. The property embodies the distinguishing characteristics of a recognized architectural style, type, or method of construction; exemplifies technological innovation in design or construction; displays high artistic value in representing ethnic or folk art, architecture, or construction; represents a rare example of an architectural style in the city; serves as an outstanding example of the work of an architect, builder, or artisan who significantly contributed to the development of the city, state, or nation; possesses cultural, historical, or architectural value as a particularly fine or unique example of a utilitarian or vernacular structure; or represents an architectural curiosity or one-of-a-kind building. The building is a vernacular commercial building, a typology rapidly disappearing in Austin. It was recommended as a preservation priority requiring stabilization in a 2019 letter from the Organization of Central East Austin Neighborhoods.1 Originally constructed as a two-story store building, occupants constructed one-story rear additions in and outside of the period of significance. It has a hipped roof with a …
Sandlin Services, LLC P: (806)679-7303 TBPELS Firm # 21356 July 1, 2024 Historic Landmark Commission City of Austin 301 W. 2nd Street Austin, TX 78701 Engineer’s Letter of Support for Demolition Permit 1500 E. 12th St. – #2024-064274 PR Dear Historic Landmark Commissioners, As the Professional Engineer, we object to the staff recommendation to initiate Historic Zoning or otherwise require a Documentation Package before releasing the demolition permit. As you will see, the public benefits afforded by demolition of the structure far outweigh the marginal benefits of allowing it to remain, and my justification is based on the following facts: 1. This structure type is not conducive nor available for relocation. Anything other than demolition is a 2. Various Civil Engineering Infrastructure items built around the structure are non-compliant with safety hazard to the community. modern safety driven setbacks. 3. Structure proximity to the adjacent major power infrastructure per National Electric Code as also used by the City of Austin is non-compliant. This is a disaster waiting to happen and the structure cannot remain. 4. The structure’s location related to public Right-Of-Way proves compliant sidewalks and sight distance unfeasible, endangering the safety, health and welfare of the members of the public amongst other conflicts. Due to the considerable risk to the health, safety and welfare of the public, it is our professional duty to inform you of the importance that this demolition plan be approved. Should you have any questions or need anything further at this time, please contact me at (806) 679-7303. Sincerely, Nick Sandlin, P.E. President & Principal TBPELS Firm# 21356 1
NOTICE OF VIOLATION Case Number: CV-2024-087824 via Certified Mail #7019 1640 0001 2753 9427 City of Austin P.O. Box 1088, Austin, TX, 78767 July 16, 2024 SODOSOPA SALMON LP % 2001 AGENCY CORPORATION 14160 DALLAS PKWY STE 800 DALLAS, TX 75254 RE: 1500 E 12TH ST AUSTIN TX 78702 Locally known as 1500 E 12TH ST AUSTIN TX 78702 Legally described as 106 X 148FT OF BLK 1 OLT 36 DIVISION B Zoned as CS-MU-NCCD-NP Parcel Number 0208090119 Dear SODOSOPA SALMON LP % 2001 AGENCY CORPORATION: The City of Austin Development Services Department investigated the property described above. Austin City Code violations were found that require your immediate attention. A description of the violation(s) and compliance timeframe(s) are provided in the attached violation report. After receipt of this Notice, and until compliance is attained, the Austin City Code prohibits the sale, lease, or transfer of this property unless: You provide the buyer, lessee, or other transferee a copy of this Notice of Violation; and You provide the name and address of the buyer, lessee, or other transferee to the Code Official. For additional information, I can be reached at (512) 974-1958 or Andres.DeLaVera@austintexas.gov. Please reference case number CV-2024-087824. Hours of operation are Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. If I am unavailable, contact DSD Code Connect line at (512) 974-CODE (2633) or DSDCodeConnect@austintexas.gov. Para obtener más información, llame al (512) 974-1958 o enviar un correo electrónico a Andres.DeLaVera@austintexas.gov. Por favor, consulte caso número CV-2024-087824. El horario de atención es: lunes a viernes, 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Si no estoy disponible, comuníquese con DSD Code Connect marcando al (512) 974-CODE (2633) o por correo electrónico DSDCodeConnect@austintexas.gov. Sincerely, Andres De La Vera, Code Inspector C City of Austin Development Services Department VIOLATION REPORT Date of Notice: July 16, 2024 Code Officer: Case Number: Property Address: Andres De La Vera CV-2024-087824 1500 E 12TH ST AUSTIN TX 78702 Locally known as 1500 E 12TH ST AUSTIN TX 78702 Zoned as CS-MU-NCCD-NP The items listed below are violations of the Austin City Code, and require your immediate attention. If the violations are not brought into compliance within the timeframes listed in this report, enforcement action may be taken. Timeframes start from the Date of Notice. Violation Type: STRUCTURE MAINTENANCE Austin City Code Section: Vacant structures and land (§301.3) Description of Violation: All vacant structures and premises thereof or vacant …
STRUCTURAL LETTER Foundation Engineering & Inspection (FEI Engineering) 6701 Rialto Blvd, Austin TX 78735 (512) 956-1030 FEInspectionLLC@gmail.com Texas Firm #: 22625 Structural Letter 1397 07/30/2024 1500 E 12th St. Austin, TX Project Number: Date of Inspection: Date: July 31, 2024 Subject: Designation: Site Address: To whom it may concern: FEI is pleased to submit this “Structural Letter” to provide an engineering evaluation regarding the safety and adequacy of the structure at the above-mentioned location. The purpose of the site inspection was to take pictures and visually evaluate the structural members. Please note that the inspection was only performed in the area where it was mentioned above. Other areas of the structure were excluded from this inspection. Please note that all observations and recommendations are strictly my professional opinion and may differ from those of other professionals. This report may be revised if new information about the building becomes available. SITE DATA: According to the information obtained from online sources and the owner's representative the structure was built approximately on or about 1915. The structure is wood-framed with a combination of soil-supported pier and beam foundation as well as slab-on-grade concrete slab. The roof covering consisted of composite shingles and the exterior consisted of vinyl and wood siding. For the purpose of this report, FEI considers the front of the building as south. OBSERVATION: Upon the inspection of the exterior as well as the interior of the structure (the interior of the house was not fully accessible due to safety concerns) significant structural concerns were noticed which include but are not limited to; rotation of the west wall of the structure, severely deteriorated and compromised floor framing system, excessive deflection of the interior beams and second-floor framing, substandard/sunken/leaning footings, etc. Please note that due to the safety concerns mentioned previously, the second floor was not inspected. CONCLUSION: Based on the observations at the subject property and our subsequent engineering evaluation, it is FEI’s professional opinion that: The existing structure is NOT adequate to support the anticipated loads. Due to the extent of the damage, significant improvements must be made to return the structure to adequacy, and based on the current condition of the building improvement may pose a risk to the individuals involved in the process therefore demolition and replacement is recommended. GENERAL NOTES: o We recommend performing the recommendations only according to structural plans that have been stamped …
July 1, 2024 Historic Landmark Commission City of Austin 301 W. 2nd Street Austin, TX 78701 Ownership Letter of Opposition to Staff Recommendation 1500 E. 12th St. – #2024-064274 PR Dear Historic Landmark Commissioners, As the Authorized Agent for the Owner, we hereby object to the Staff recommendation to initiate Historic Designation, Zoning or otherwise require a Documentation Package before releasing the demolition permit for the site located at 1500 E. 12th St for case #2024-064274 PR. Sincerely, Nick Sandlin, P.E. President & Principal TBPELS Firm# 21356 1
OCEAN Trey Salinas and Talia Hill—3 Point Partners Eureka development plans for East 12th Street Summary of Feedback 06.24.2019 We are glad that Eureka is ready to work with the community on appropriate development, both within the Urban Renewal Area and further along the street. Our feedback below regards property within the Urban Renewal Area and the Central East Austin Neighborhood Plan—Blocks 1-9 and 11-17. http://www.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=322262 Development priorities: Historic/cultural preservation; walkable, neighborhood-scaled retail and commercial; and compatible structures and uses that comply with current development controls in place. Historic preservation priorities: I.Q. Hurdle House, Bible Believers Church, and Eisenbeiser/Ministry of Challenge building. We are appreciative of recent efforts to stabilize the I. Q. Hurdle House and hopeful that implementation of a long-term plan for restoration/reuse at 1416 East 12th Street will occur within two years. A new roof may be needed to forestall more deterioration of the Eisenbeiser/Ministry of Challenge building, and please keep in mind that planning documents for East 12th Street may provide leeway for dealing with infrastructure challenges specific to that site. There is a great deal of frustration regarding block-lengths of vacant land owned by Eureka that has not been redeveloped in line with the development priorities described above. Eureka has owned one empty block (Block 2) since 2015. Developing long-vacant parcels versus acquiring more property or demolishing existing housing is the least controversial and potentially most productive way to promote positive change along the street. Robust, transparent and responsive engagement of area stakeholders is critical to a collaborative process. Input should be logged, along with the specific source of the input and that individual’s or organization’s relationship to the Urban Renewal Area. Thank you for clarifying that next steps in the engagement piece of the planning process will occur in August/September. It would be helpful for stakeholders to get a sense at that time of the team’s anticipated planning arc, so that individuals and groups know generally what steps to expect and approximately when they may occur. Timelines and deliverables help build faith in a shared outcome—successful, timely implementation. We agree that a neighborhood-by-neighborhood approach to planning for Eureka’s properties is much better than generating a master plan. We suggest that this planning exercise identify priority sites upon which to focus so that steady, concurrent progress along the entire urban renewal stretch is achieved, rather than serially completing one neighborhood plan process, implementing it and …
August 6, 2024 Historic Landmark Commission City of Austin 301 W. 2nd Street Austin, TX 78701 Engineer’s Letter of Support for Demolition Permit 1500 E. 12th St. – #2024-064274 PR Dear Historic Landmark Commissioners, As the Professional Engineer, we continue to object to the staff recommendation to initiate Historic Zoning or otherwise require a Documentation Package before releasing the demolition permit. As a Professional Engineer (P.E.) with over 12 years of experience in civil engineering in Austin, I have developed extensive expertise in urban redevelopment, infrastructure planning, walkability improvements, etc. I also want to share that not only am I a Professional Engineer who takes his duties seriously, I’m an Austin resident, born here in the 1980s. Based on the previous commissions meeting repeated statements, I heard no concerns related to public safety or most importantly based on the history of structure. The staff’s short presentation was not the focus of the commission. I heard only denial of any safety issues, emotionally based opinions, and attacks on the landowner. This appeared to be based on a single speaker, who focused solely on concerns about the landowner. It was evident to me as a resident, the Historic Landmark Commission aims to block any development of the owner’s property leaving the City of Austin citizens to forever deal with the hazard at this intersection. After performing additional research and listening to at the last hearing, we even more strongly advise that the building presents too many safety hazards to remain. Furthermore, it is undeniable that far more public benefits would be gained by enabling demolition of this structure to advance without delay. Here are facts to further support this recommendation: 1. As the building sits today, presents an unsafe situation. Various Civil Engineering Infrastructure items built around the structure are non-compliant with modern safety driven setbacks. a. We reached out to Austin Energy, which stated the following: “… it does not meet our current standard clearances. We would not permit a new building to be built in that same location. A new building would have to be set back further from our facilities.” That is a direct quote from an email from Austin Energy’s Power System Managing Engineer. b. The structure’s location related to public right-of-way proves compliant sidewalks and sight distance unfeasible, endangering the safety, health and welfare of the members of the public amongst other conflicts. c. These setbacks exist …
August 2, 2024 RE: 1500 East 12th Street Dear Chair Heimsath, Vice Chair Witt Featherston, and Members of the Historic Landmark Commission, Preservation Austin exists to empower Austinites to shape a more inclusive, resilient, and meaningful community culture through preservation. We write to you today in support of designating 1500 East 12th Street as a City of Austin Historic Landmark for its Architecture, Historic Association, and Community Value. Our support for this case is in alignment with our Underrepresented Heritage Advocacy Priority, which seeks to identify and designate historic sites associated with African Americans, Mexican Americans, Native Americans, the LGBTQIA community, and women. Built between 1889 and 1911, the store at 1500 E. 12th St. traces the diverse heritage of East Austin. The building’s early history reflects the German heritage of Austin and Central Texas – initially constructed by grocer and politician Christian J. Willhem, it was later acquired by Dessau merchants Ernest and Louisa Eisenbeiser, who operated a produce and dry goods store, a saloon, and a restaurant there. In 1950, Black businessman Buford Johnson purchased the building, transforming it into a community hub for East Austin’s African American population during the Jim Crow era. By the mid-1950s, the building housed the Fifteen Hundred Beauty and Barber Shops, as well as Club Fifteen Hundred, a bar and music venue. It later became the home of the Gamma Eta Alpha chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, the oldest fraternity in America to admit Black members. The building is prominently situated at the corner of E. 12th and Comal Streets, directly across from the I.Q. Hurdle and Southgate-Lewis Houses – both landmarks of Austin’s Black heritage – reflecting the greater importance of this intersection to the story of Black East Austin. Preservation Austin wholeheartedly supports the designation of 1500 E. 12th St. as a City of Austin Historic Landmark. We thank you for your consideration of this case and for your service to the City of Austin. Sincerely, Melissa Barry, President
CAUSE NO. ------ ST ATE OF TEXAS IN THE MUNICIPAL COURT vs CITY OF AUSTIN SODOSOPA SALMON LP IN TRAVIS COUNTY, TEXAS § § § § § AFFIDAVIT FOR WARRANT OF ARREST AND DETENTION The undersigned on oath, makes the following statement: Affiant, Inspector Willis Adams #13067, who after being duly sworn by me, Willis Adams has good reason to believe Inspector 21, 2023, Sodosopa Salmon LP did commit the offense 32, fail to obtain Building and does believe of violating that on or about September City Code, § 25-11- Austin Permit. Municipal Court #65113. statement person working who personally is based upon information for the City of Austin Development such offense: The forgoing credible Compliance, TRAVIS COUNTY, TEXAS, WITHIN THE TERRITORIAL OF AUSTIN. Salmon LP failed to obtain structure. To wit: Being the owner of the property a building by Inspector Services THIS INCIDENT OCCURRED IN JURISDICTION at 1500 E. 12th Street Bldg. B, Sodosopa of the permanent for work conducted in the interior observed OF THE CITY observed Adams, a permit Willis Department-Code located Services Compliance a code complaint Department-Code the property Willis regarding 7, 2020, Inspector at 1500 E. 12th Adams conducted On August 3, 2020, the City of Austin Development received TX. 78702. On August ommercial property structure, with structural damage, and what appeared to and observed a c Inspector inside work occurring in the dumpsters, parking full of debris, with case notes and photographs. Inspector owner. Inspector Adams could not locate the Travis researched mailing property inspections at 1500 E. notice for the property. and found that Sodasopa Salmon LP, with a is the owner of the Austin TX. 78701-2172, any building Records of 1 108 Lavaca St. STE 110-348 his findings to the property Adams Inspector Bldg. B Austin of said location be • Street Bldg. B. Inspector • Street Bldg. B. • Street an inspection address at 1500 E. 12th 12th Adams sent a code violation Adams documented two, twenty foot roll away of the structure. Adams continued Adams observed lot. Inspector Appraisal to conduct permits staged Central follow up Willis Adams observed the Amanda Database Adams conducted repairs On May 23, 2023, Inspector Street Bldg. B. Inspector Adams searched performed. Inspector On May 24, 2023, Inspector violation and providing certified mail green card was returned violation's notification requirements of Adams observed the Adams sent by certified and did not find a build …
From: To: Subject: Date: Eric Standridge Fahnestock, Sam 1500 East 12th street Tuesday, June 4, 2024 9:32:24 PM [You don't often get email from https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] . Learn why this is important at External Email - Exercise Caution Hello Sam, My name is Eric and my am a member of the OCEAN, the planning contact team for central east Austin. I drove by this building today and noticed what appears to be active demolition/deconstruction in progress. Upon looking it up it on the city permit search it appears historic was rejected yesterday. I’ll admit I don’t know what that means, but I have been involved in numerous discussion about this building for years, mostly how it’s a demolition by neglect case study. Along with the IQ Hurdle house across the street and the South Gate Lewis house, this intersection has three eligible buildings which is rare in Austin generally. Surely, a 109 year old building identified as worthy of preservation in the east Austin historic survey would at least get a hearing at the landmark commission. Please call me to discuss. Thank you, -eric standridge 512-947-5766 CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov."
From: To: Subject: Date: OCEAN Contact Team Fahnestock, Sam Fwd: Please recommend historic zoning for 1500 E 12th Street Tuesday, July 2, 2024 8:21:07 AM You don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Thank you for your attention to Item 26. Sincerely, Nate > ---------- Forwarded message --------- From: OCEAN Contact Team < Date: Tue, Jul 2, 2024 at 8:15 AM Subject: Please recommend historic zoning for 1500 E 12th Street To: <BC-Ben.Heimsath@austintexas.gov>, <BC-Witt.Featherston@austintexas.gov>, <bc- juanraymon.rubio@austintexas.gov>, <BC-Raymond.Castillo@austintexas.gov>, <bc- jamie.alvarez@austintexas.gov>, <BC-Trey.McWhorter@austintexas.gov>, <BC- Carl.Larosche@austintexas.gov>, <bc-roxanne.evans@austintexas.gov>, <BC- Tara.Dudley@austintexas.gov>, <BC-Harmony.Grogan@austintexas.gov>, <BC- Kevin.Koch@austintexas.gov> Cc: <sam.fahenstock@austintexas.gov> Dear Chair Heimsath, Vice Chair Featherston and the Historic Landmark Commission: The Organization of Central East Austin Neighborhoods contact team appreciates staff's research and recommendation that 1500 E 12th Street be designated a historic landmark. We encourage you to elevate that assessment to council with your full support. This structure--known in past lives as the Ministry of Challenge, Eisenbeiser Grocery, Club Fifteen Hundred and Fifteen Hundred Beauty and Barber Shops-- has a long and varied history of adaptive reuse and mixed use dating back to the 1890s, and together with the I.Q. Hurdle House (at 1416) and Southgate-Lewis House (at 1501) comprises a historic anchor at the corner of E 12th and Comal Streets. While the Southgate-Lewis House has become the subject of renewed restoration efforts by the longtime owner, the W.H. Passon Historical Society, sadly, the other two properties have deteriorated and languished under the eight-year tenure of a Dallas holding company's entities called Sodosopa Salmon LP and Poisonous Poinsettia LP. As you may know, that company has amassed scores of properties along and nearby E 12th Street, restoring none and building nothing but fences and parking lots. That should not be the future for a high-profile site which, under decades of African American and German immigrant stewardship, provided groceries, libations, personal services, and even rehabilitation and supportive housing. That should not be the future for properties called out in the 2016 East Austin Historic Survey as eligible for landmark status. E 12th Street needs buildings that testify to its past and invite new waves of vitality and community within them; the street has its fill of clearance, vacancy, temporary uses, fences and parking lots. East 12th needs your courage, commitment and sustained attention to prevail and thrive in the face of indifferent actors who mock its legacy with LPs …
