January JSC Meeting ATXN video — original link
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Recommendation 20240124-002 - Amendments to the Austin Climate Equity Plan — original pdf
Joint Sustainability Committee RECOMMENDATION 20240124-002 Date: January 24, 2024 Subject: Recommendations on amendments to the Ausitn Climate Equity Plan on telework and disposal rate goals Motioned By: Haris Qureshi Seconded By: Anna Scott Recommendation: The Joint Sustainability Committee recommends and supports the following updates to the Austin Climate Equity Plan: 1. Adding language to explicitly support telework policies as outlined in City Council Resolution No. 20231109-029, including ensuring that, whenever appropriate, all new City of Austin telework and remote work policies contribute towards the goal of achieving 25% Austin residents working from home by 2039 and include a strategy to implement a City of Austin telework policy of no less than 85% of eligible City of Austin employees choose work from home. 2. Equity Plan a. The Joint Sustainability Committee further recommends that the Austin Climate 3. Amend Food and Production Consumption Goal 3 on page 75 to reflect the disposal rate goals in the 2023 Austin Resource Recovery Comprehensive Plan adopted by Council Resolution No. 20231102-002. a. Current language: “Aggressively pursue waste reduction, organics composting, and recycling to achieve a new zero-waste goal following adoption of the new Austin Resource Recovery Zero Waste Plan*. *The new community-wide per capita disposal rate goal will be added as an amendment to this plan when available.” b. Recommended language: “Aggressively pursue waste reduction, organics composting, and recycling and maintain a per capita disposal rate of 4 pounds disposed per ARR-serviced household per day in the near-term and work to achieve 1 pound disposed per ARR-serviced household per day over time.” c. The Joint Sustainability Committee further recommends the Austin Climate Equity Plan be updated in the near future to refine the disposal rate goal with clear target dates and more ambitious interim goals. Rationale: 1. The Joint Sustainability Committee supports expanded support and encouragement for telework for the reasons described in Joint Sustainability Committee Recommendation 20230628-4. 2. The Joint Sustainability Committee recognizes that product consumption is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions. The addition of the disposal rate goals reflects this fact and was envisioned in the drafting of the Austin Climate Equity Plan. Page 75 of the Plan states “*The new community-wide per capita disposal rate goal will be added as an amendment to this plan when available.” Vote: 13-0 For: Kaiba White, Rodrigo Leal, Haris Qureshi, Chris Maxwell-Gaines Melissa Rothrock, Jon Salinas, Alice Woods, Amy Noel, Diana Wheeler, Christopher …
7. Low carbon concrete presentation — original pdf
City of Austin Plan to Transition to Low – Embodied Carbon Concrete In Pursuit of a Carbon Neutral Austin Office of the City Engineer January 2024 Austin o The use of traditional cements and concretes and construction with concrete has a huge impact on the sustainability of most of our built environment and infrastructure. o We must work together to affect change to be successful developing a future in which we all want to live. o The City of Austin has an opportunity to take a leading role in the movement toward more sustainable infrastructure. o The Austin City Council has passed a Resolution that empowers us to begin walking the path toward more sustainable concrete. 2 Climate Change and CO2 Emissions Industry, 14% Electricity, 28% Agriculture, 9% Commercial & Residential, 12% Concrete, 8% Transportation 29% Year 1990 2005 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 33.5 46.2 40.3 39.0 40.9 40.7 41.3 33,484 46,194 40,324 38,971 40,896 40,888 41,312 MMT CO2 Eq. kt • Cement industry is responsible for about 8% of carbon dioxide emissions • Carbon dioxide emissions from cement production increased by 23.4% from 1990 through 2021. 3 4 Buy Clean Policies and Legislation Federal, State, and Local Initiatives White House Buy Clean Actions Announced September 15th, 2022. Administration Goal: Net-zero emissions by 2050 and a 50-52% reduction by 2030. Prioritize the Federal Government’s purchase of steel, concrete, asphalt and flat glass that have lower levels of emissions. Expand lower-carbon construction materials used in federally-funded projects. Convene states to partner on Buy Clean. Increase data transparency through supplier reporting to track and reduce emissions. Launch pilot programs to advance federal procurement of clean construction materials. Expand the Buy Clean Task Force to eight more federal agencies (total of 17 now). The US Department of Transportation policy statement (issued September 15th, 2022), “…the U.S. Department of Transportation will launch a Buy Clean Initiative that will assess and address the embodied carbon emissions that come from the engineering, design, construction, procurement, maintenance, and disposal of transportation projects" 1. The Department will explore the use of Environmental Product Declarations, which are transparent, verified reports used to communicate the environmental impacts of construction materials. Standardized reporting would help industry to confidently move forward in investing in the production of clean and reliable materials. 5 Concrete Sustainability Initiatives Material Transparency: Environmental Product Declarations Nutrition Label EPD 6 City of Austin City Council Resolution Resolution …
Approved Minutes — original pdf
JOINT SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING MEETING MINUTES Jan 24, 2024 The Joint Sustainability Committee convened in a hybrid meeting via videoconferencing and at Permitting and Development Center. Chair Kaiba White called the Board Meeting to order at 6:07 pm. Board Members in Attendance in Person: Kaiba White, Rodrigo Leal, Haris Qureshi, Chris Maxwell-Gaines Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Melissa Rothrock, Jon Salinas, Alice Woods, Amy Noel, Diana Wheeler, Heather Houser, Charlotte Davis, Christopher Campbell, Anna Scott Board Members Absent: Larry Franklin, Bertha Delgado, Stephanie Bazan, Yure Suarez City Staff in Attendance: Rohan Lilauwala, Angela Johnson, Ed Poppit, Zach Baumer CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION Santiago – volunteer at Festival Beach Food Forest Responding to TxDOT’s I-35 proposal o Regarding non-conforming uses and stormwater tunnel under Cesar Chavez 6. Approval of minutes from the December 13th meeting of the Joint Sustainability Committee. Qureshi motions to approve, Wheeler seconds, passes on 12-0 vote (Maxwell-Gaines off dais). 7. Low Carbon Concrete Presentation –Angela Johnson and Ed Poppit, Office of the City Engineer Presentation on approach taken in response to council resolution concrete Question on are they asking suppliers to disclose rather than requiring low carbon o Poppit – looking towards enhancements in the future. Pilots, testing (e.g. carbon injection in sidewalks), but not far down the road of action. Need more support to take more action. Taking small steps now – educating producers, etc. o Mix of fixes – no silver bullet. Changing processes, changing energy sources, changing component mixtures. o Johnson: Plan is evolving and shifting based on new knowledge advancements o Poppit: Old way was prescriptive, new path might be performance-based (meet certain important characteristics). Puts pressure on city staff to ensure performance meets needs. o This was supposed to go to council in November, no updates. o EPDs coming into effect Oct 2024 o White: need to move faster o Clarification from Campbell – CO2 impacts are in metric tons, not MMT 3. Recommendations to amend ACEP re: telework policies and AE zero waste goal Qureshi motions to approve, Scott seconds Does there need to be specificity in the time for a target? Is it aggressive enough? JSC members discuss at length. JSC ‘further recommends that ACEP be updated in near future to refine the disposal rate goal with clear target dates and set more ambitious interim goals’ Woods amendment – …
December JSC Agenda — original pdf
JOINT SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE HYBRID MEETING FORMAT December 13th, 2023 at 6pm Room 1401, Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the Committee may be participating by videoconference 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 Rohan Lilauwala at (rohan.lilauwala@austintexas.gov or 512-974-9394). CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Kaiba White, Chair (Electric Utility Commission) Diana Wheeler, Vice Chair (Urban Transportation Commission) Charlotte Davis (Resource Mgmt. Commission) Haris Qureshi (Environmental Commission) Melissa Rothrock (Zero Waste Advisory Commission) Bertha Delgado (Community Development Commission) Larry Franklin (Austin Travis County Food Policy Board) Chris Maxwell-Gaines (Water & Wastewater Commission) Amy Noel (Economic Prosperity Commission) Stephanie Bazan (Parks & Recreation Board) Jon Salinas (Design Commission) Vacant (City Council) Alice Woods (Planning Commission) Rodrigo Leal (Mayor’s Representative) Anna Scott (Mayor’s Representative) Heather Houser (Mayor’s Representative) Yureisly Suarez (Mayor’s Representative) Christopher Campbell (Mayor’s Representative) For more information, please visit: www.austintexas.gov/jsc 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. DISCUSSION 1. Sustainable Procurement Update – Amanda Mortl (Office of Sustainability) 2. Regional Air Quality – Anton Cox (Capital Area Council of Governments) 3. Air Quality in Austin – Scott Johnson 4. Updates from the Electric Utility Commission on Austin Energy Generation Plan Updates – Kaiba White, Electric Utility Commission. 5. Discussion of amendments to the Austin Climate Equity Plan spurred by council action. 6. Approval of minutes from the October 25th meeting of the Joint Sustainability Committee. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Resolution on Austin Energy Resource Planning. 8. 2024 JSC Meeting Schedule. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 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 contact Rohan Lilauwala at rohan.lilauwala@austintexas.gov or 512-974-9394 for additional …
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Recommendation 20231213-007: Austin Energy Resource Planning — original pdf
Joint Sustainability Committee RECOMMENDATION 20231213-007 Date: December 13, 2023 Subject: Austin Energy Resource Planning Motioned By: Haris Qureshi Seconded By: Anna Scott WHEREAS, it is the Joint Sustainability Committee’s responsibility to advise “on matters related to conservation and sustainability and review City policies and procedures relevant to the Austin Community Climate Plan and the Austin Climate Equity Plan, including planning, implementation, community engagement, goal setting, and progress monitoring”, and WHEREAS, the greenhouse gas emissions reduction goal established by the Austin City Council in the Climate Equity Plan is to achieve “net-zero community-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, utilizing a steep decline path followed by negative emissions” that translates to approximately 75% reduction in emission by 2030; and WHEREAS, meeting the greenhouse gas reduction goals adopted by the Austin City Council in the Climate Equity Plan isn’t possible without significant emissions reductions by Austin Energy in the near, medium and long-term; and WHEREAS, if the Austin Energy Resource, Generation and Climate Protection Plan emissions reductions are only or primarily focused on 2035, Austin will not meet the established greenhouse gas emissions reduction goal; and WHEREAS, any near or medium-term increase in greenhouse gas emissions does not align with the Climate Equity Plan or the greenhouse gas reduction goals adopted by the Austin City Council; and WHEREAS, reducing and eliminating local air pollution, especially in and near historically and currently marginalized and lower-income parts of the community, is an important equity and community health priority reflected in the Climate Equity Plan; and WHEREAS, water conservation and reducing water use are goals established by the Austin City Council; and WHEREAS, methane - the primary component of natural gas - has 86 times the global warming potential as carbon dioxide when emitted directly into the atmosphere, which is a well- documented problem and natural gas also releases carbon dioxide emissions when combusted; and WHEREAS, green hydrogen currently only accounts for 0.2 percent of all hydrogen production and no hydrogen pipeline or other distribution infrastructure currently serves central Texas and no green hydrogen production exists in Texas; and WHEREAS, strict standards on the production of green hydrogen are necessary to ensure that it reduces, instead of increases, greenhouse gas emissions and those standards are not yet in place; and WHEREAS, hydrogen has 37 times the global warming potential as carbon dioxide and leakage rates from hydrogen infrastructure vary widely, making any climate benefit from using …
1. Sustainable Procurement Update — original pdf
December JSC Sustainable Procurement Program and Procurement Emissions Inventory update December 13, 2023 Sustainable Procurement Program ○ Past- Timeline ○ Present- Program development supported by SPLC ○ Future- Next Steps Sustainable Procurement Initiatives 2004 Air Quality Improvement Through contracting preference 2005 United Nations Urban Environmental Accords Zero Waste by 2040 2007 Carbon Neutrality Plan, Sustainability Standards in Municipal Projects 2008 Responsible (Green) Purchasing Program initiated ; Resolution to Eliminate Purchasing of Plastic Bottles 2014-2017 Internal training materials developed 2018 Sustainable Procurement Program policy vision text developed 2020 Climate Equity Plan goals adopted 2022 Baseline Procurement Emission Inventory Year w/ Parametrix 2023 SPLC Sustainable Procurement Program support Sustainable Procurement Leadership Council Coaching SP Program Components 🗸 - Vision 𐄂 - Program Charter 𐄂 - Establishing Goals and Metrics 𐄂 - Strategy Development 𐄂 - Staff Engagement and Accountability Vision We envision a future where every purchase we make is a statement of our commitment to sustainability, fostering a balance between people, planet, and prosperity. By choosing climate-friendly, environmentally preferred and ethically-sourced products, and investing in small businesses, we strive to create a positive impact on the environment, communities, and future generations. Strengthening the City’s sustainable procurement program A program charter defines the ways in which our program will work toward the vision and includes: 𐄂 Program objectives 𐄂 Program and Resource Commitments 𐄂 Program Structure 𐄂 Prioritization 𐄂 Focus Areas 𐄂 Metrics for Success 𐄂 Continuous Improvements Next Steps: Continue sustainable procurement program coaching with SPLC Plan to spend 2023-2024 budgeted $100K on sustainable procurement program development and climate plan implementation Goal 2 Strategies #1-2 Sustainable Procurement Program Focus Area Update: Procurement Emissions and Impacts ○ Procurement Inventory Intro ○ Preliminary Results ○ Next Steps Climate plan and Procurement Food and Product Consumption Goals Goal 2: By 2030, reduce greenhouse gas emissions from institutional, commercial, and government purchasing by at least 50%. 1. Measure institutional lifecycle emissions • Develop a methodology to measure lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental and social impacts from non-residential purchasing and identify a baseline for progress 2. Strengthen the City’s sustainable purchasing program programs 3. Strengthen non-City institutional purchasing 4. Expand the City’s Circular Economy Program Climate plan and Procurement Food and Product Consumption Goals Goal 2: By 2030, reduce greenhouse gas emissions from institutional, commercial, and government purchasing by at least 50%. 1. Measure institutional lifecycle emissions • Develop a methodology to measure lifecycle …
2. Regional Air Quality — original pdf
Overview of Regional Air Quality Planning Efforts in the Austin MSA Clean Air Coalition Meeting December 13, 2023 CAPCOG – Regional Planning Commission in Statute; more often called a COG. • Emergency Communications 9-1-1 • Area Agency on Aging/Aging & Disability Resource Center • Homeland Security Planning & Training • Regional Law Enforcement Academy • Air Quality Planning • Solid Waste Planning • Economic Development Analysis & Technical Assistance • Transportation Planning 12/13/2023 Capital Area Council of Governments 2 Ten – county service area; State of Texas planning region 12 12/13/2023 Capital Area Council of Governments 3 CAPCOG’S AIR QUALITY PROGRAM 12/13/2023 Capital Area Council of Governments 4 Local Government Voluntary Action Central Texas Clean Air Coalition (CAC) is a national leader in pro-active, voluntary efforts to improve air quality and stay in attainment of the standards Goal: Maintaining compliance with the NAAQS, improve air quality, provide guidance • Inspection and maintenance program, vehicle replacement programs, point source controls • CAPCOG’s air quality program conducts air quality monitoring, technical work, planning, and outreach Pollutants of Concerns are Ozone (O3) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) 12/13/2023 Capital Area Council of Governments 5 Supporting Members • Austin White Lime • Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization • Capital Metro • City of Lago Vista • City of Sunset Valley • City of Taylor • Clean Air Force of Central Texas • Huston-Tillotson University • Lower Colorado River Authority • Lonestar Clean Fuels Alliance • Public Citizen • Sierra Club – Lonestar Chapter • South-central Partnership for Energy Efficiency as a Resource • St. Edward's University • Texas Commission on Environmental Quality • Texas Department of Transportation • Texas Lehigh Cement Company • Texas Parks & Wildlife Department • US Environmental Protection Agency 12/13/2023 Capital Area Council of Governments 6 CAPCOG’s AQ program • Provide technical assistance to CAC members – Monitor Pollution levels in the region – Technical reports (Annual Report, Annual Data • Preform Studies and Planning Activities – Emissions and Control Strategies (In partnership with Analysis) EPA and TCEQ) – Modeling Analysis (2015-2020 Ozone conceptual Moder, PM 2.5 Conceptual Model, Cost of Non- Attainment) 12/13/2023 Capital Area Council of Governments 7 Outreach and Education The CAC wants to educate everyone on the dangers of air pollution! Air Central Texas (ACT) is an initiative to reduce exposure to air pollution in Central Texas through voluntary actions. Our partners include local governments, regional …
6. October JSC draft minutes for approval — original pdf
JOINT SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING MEETING MINUTES Oct 25, 2023 The Joint Sustainability Committee convened in a hybrid meeting via videoconferencing and at Austin Energy HQ. Acting Chair Diana Wheeler called the Board Meeting to order at 6:07 pm. Board Members in Attendance in Person: Diana Wheeler, Charlotte Davis, Chris Maxwell- Gaines, Jon Salinas, Rodrigo Leal, Haris Qureshi Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Heather Houser, Melissa Rothrock, Kaiba White, Stephanie Bazan, Yure Suarez, Chris Campbell, Alice Woods Board Members Absent: Haris Qureshi, Larry Franklin, Bertha Delgado City Staff in Attendance: Angela Baucom, Rohan Lilauwala, Jason McCombs, Richard McHale CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION Diana Prechter encouraged JSC to recommend closure of Zilker Park Polo Field to parking. off Dais) Chris Flores encouraged JSC to support audit of the use of fertilizer on Zilker Great Lawn because of its effects on water quality in Barton Creek. 9. Approval of minutes from the September 27th meeting of the Joint Sustainability Committee. Motion to approve by Qureshi, seconded by Davis. Approved unanimously (12-0, Woods 2. Austin Resource Recovery Zero Waste Comprehensive Plan Update. – Jason McCombs, Austin Resource Recovery, Scott Pasternak, Burns & McDonnell. Qureshi asks about multifamily composting. McCombs – thinking about this for a while, coming in Oct 2024. White has several questions around goals, timelines, rollout plans. Discussions at length around workforce development, community engagement, litter control, textile recycling, fees for diversion, etc. 1. Sustainable Purchasing Best Practices – Johanna Anderson, Sustainable Purchasing Leadership Council. Discussions around potential staffing needs, resources available, engagement with institutions and businesses 3. Updates from the Planning Commission – Alice Woods PC submitted recommendations in support of changes to city telework policy Joint meeting with council on 10/26 in favor of homes initiative. 4. Updates from Urban Transportation Commission – Diana Wheeler Recent topics discussed safe routes to schools, ETOD program, parking requirements 5. Updates from Zero Waste Advisory Commission – Melissa Rothrock ZWAC made recommendation of support of ARR zero waste plan Working on multifamily composting initiative 6. Updates from Design Commission – Jon Salinas Looking at building/site design guidelines 7. Updates from Electric Utility Commission – Kaiba White AE to present on modeling at Nov meeting. Resource planning WG continued meeting AE part of EPA Solar for All grant application 10. Resolution in support of proposed Land Development …
7. Draft Resolution on Austin Energy Resource Planning — original pdf
Joint Sustainability Committee Resolution on Austin Energy Resource Planning December 13, 2023 WHEREAS, it is the Joint Sustainability Committee’s responsibility to advise “on matters related to conservation and sustainability and review City policies and procedures relevant to the Austin Community Climate Plan and the Austin Climate Equity Plan, including planning, implementation, community engagement, goal setting, and progress monitoring”, and WHEREAS, the greenhouse gas emissions reduction goal established by the Austin City Council in the Climate Equity Plan is to achieve “net-zero community-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, utilizing a steep decline path followed by negative emissions” that translates to approximately 75% reduction in emission by 2030; and WHEREAS, meeting the greenhouse gas reduction goals adopted by the Austin City Council in the Climate Equity Plan isn’t possible without significant emissions reductions by Austin Energy in the near, medium and long-term; and WHEREAS, if the Austin Energy Resource, Generation and Climate Protection Plan emissions reductions are only or primarily focused on 2035, Austin will not meet the established greenhouse gas emissions reduction goal; and WHEREAS, any near or medium-term increase in greenhouse gas emissions does not align with the Climate Equity Plan or the greenhouse gas reduction goals adopted by the Austin City Council; and WHEREAS, reducing and eliminating local air pollution, especially in and near historically and currently marginalized and lower-income parts of the community, is an important equity and community health priority reflected in the Climate Equity Plan; and WHEREAS, water conservation and reducing water use are goals established by the Austin City Council; and WHEREAS, methane - the primary component of natural gas - has 86 times the global warming potential as carbon dioxide when emitted directly into the atmosphere, which is a well- documented problem and natural gas also releases carbon dioxide emissions when combusted; and WHEREAS, green hydrogen currently only accounts for 0.2 percent of all hydrogen production and no hydrogen pipeline or other distribution infrastructure currently serves central Texas and no green hydrogen production exists in Texas; and WHEREAS, strict standards on the production of green hydrogen are necessary to ensure that it reduces, instead of increases, greenhouse gas emissions and those standards are not yet in place; and WHEREAS, hydrogen has 37 times the global warming potential as carbon dioxide and leakage rates from hydrogen infrastructure vary widely, making any climate benefit from using hydrogen uncertain and worsening climate change a possibility; NOW THEREFORE, …
8. Proposed JSC 2024 Meeting Schedule — original pdf
2024 JSC Meeting Schedule – Proposed 1. January 24, 2024 2. February 28, 2024 3. March 27, 2024 4. April 24, 2024 5. May 22, 2024 6. June 26, 2024 7. July 24, 2024 8. August 28, 2024 9. September 25, 2024 10. October 23, 2024 11. November 20, 2024 12. December 18, 2024
Oct 25 JSC Agenda — original pdf
JOINT SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE HYBRID MEETING FORMAT October 25th, 2023 at 6pm Austin Energy HQ, Shudde Fath Conference Room 4815 Mueller Blvd Austin, TX 78723 Some members of the Committee may be participating by videoconference 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 Rohan Lilauwala at (rohan.lilauwala@austintexas.gov or 512-974-9394). CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Kaiba White, Chair (Electric Utility Commission) Diana Wheeler, Vice Chair (Urban Transportation Commission) Charlotte Davis (Resource Mgmt. Commission) Haris Qureshi (Environmental Commission) Melissa Rothrock (Zero Waste Advisory Commission) Bertha Delgado (Community Development Commission) Larry Franklin (Austin Travis County Food Policy Board) Chris Maxwell-Gaines (Water & Wastewater Commission) Amy Noel (Economic Prosperity Commission) Stephanie Bazan (Parks & Recreation Board) Jon Salinas (Design Commission) Vacant (City Council) Alice Woods (Planning Commission) Rodrigo Leal (Mayor’s Representative) Anna Scott (Mayor’s Representative) Heather Houser (Mayor’s Representative) Yureisly Suarez (Mayor’s Representative) Christopher Campbell (Mayor’s Representative) For more information, please visit: www.austintexas.gov/jsc 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. DISCUSSION 1. Sustainable Purchasing Best Practices – Johanna Anderson, Sustainable Purchasing Leadership Council. 2. Austin Resource Recovery Zero Waste Comprehensive Plan Update. 3. Updates from the Planning Commission. 4. Updates from the Urban Transportation Commission. 5. Updates from the Zero Waste Advisory Commission. 6. Updates from the Design Commission 7. Updates from the Electric Utility Commission. 8. Updates from the Planning Commission. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 9. Approval of minutes from the September 27th meeting of the Joint Sustainability Committee. 10. Resolution in support of proposed Land Development Code amendments. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 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 contact Rohan Lilauwala at rohan.lilauwala@austintexas.gov or 512-974-9394 for additional information; TTY users’ route …
Video recording of 10/25 JSC meeting — original link
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1. Sustainable Purchasing Best Practices Presentation — original pdf
Introduction to Sustainable Procurement Opportunities for local government action SPLC leads a global community of public and private purchasers, suppliers, advocates, and experts dedicated to driving positive impact through the power of procurement. Powering Procurement for Good (c)2023 Sustainable Purchasing Council SPLC’s Broad Membership Coalition A membership of 180+ Distinguished Organizations Leveraging $800B in annual purchasing power Multi-stakeholder membership including Fortune 500s, government, higher education, and specialized non-profits Working together to align and aggregate procurement demand for environmentally, socially, economically sustainable products, services and supply chains (c)2023 Sustainable Purchasing Council Today’s agenda Baseline definitions Importance of taking a program approach Local government examples Baseline definitions HEALTHY COMMUNITY ECONOMY ENVIRONMENT FOR EVERYONE FOREVER Procurement that… achieves value for money. strengthens the organization. CONVENTIONAL PROCUREMENT Procurement that… achieves value for money. strengthens the organization. strengthens the economy. strengthens society. strengthens the environment. CONVENTIONAL PROCUREMENT SUSTAINABLE PROCUREMENT Sustainable Procurement Sustainable Purchasing Sustainable Purchasing Procurement that… achieves value for money. strengthens the organization. strengthens the environment. strengthens society. strengthens the economy. CONVENTIONAL PROCUREMENT SUSTAINABLE PROCUREMENT Responsible Sourcing Responsible Supply Chain Supply Chain Sustainability Sustainable Procurement Purchasing in ways that intentionally strengthen our… (c)2023 Sustainable Purchasing Council Environment Society Economy • Climate protection • Pollution prevention • Waste reduction • Resource efficiency • Habitat preservation • Air and water quality • Health + Safety • Equal opportunity • Fair wages • Employee training • Workers rights • No forced labor • Supplier diversity • Small business • Local jobs • Fair competition • Transparency • Innovation • Corruption-free Benefits to the organization Tangible Intangible + Process efficiency + Innovation + Performance tracking - Regulatory burden - Costs + Supplier relationships + Brand value + Customer satisfaction + Employee satisfaction + Investor visibility - Business risk (c)2023 Sustainable Purchasing Council Taking a program approach Opportunistic Activity vs. Prioritized Strategic Program More work, less impact IMPACT Lack of prioritized focus Prioritization Prioritization Pilot: Environmental Impacts of Higher Education Spend Electricity Food, & Dining Construction & Maintenance Fuels Sanitary & Waste 5 purchasing categories 64% of total spending 83% of estimated impacts 14 Insight: Analysis and prioritization sharpens focus and reduces complexity Strategic Program Approach Vision Prioritized Impacts Focus Areas Goals and Metrics Solution Strategies Benefits of a program approach Individual activities With a strategic program Silos Cross-functional collaboration Efforts are less impactful …
10. Backup for proposed resolution in support of proposed Land Development Code amendments — original pdf
By 2027, preserve and produce 135,000 housing units, including 60,000 affordable housing units*, with 75% of new housing located within ½ mile of Imagine Austin activity centers and corridors. *This goal is based on the Council-adopted Austin Strategic Housing Blueprint. Strategy 1: Offer immediate affordable housing assistance Engage directly with communities that are vulnerable to displacement and connect them with services. Proactively monitor affordable housing properties at risk of losing their affordability status to extend the period of affordability. How we’ll get there: ● Increase fair housing enforcement and education. ● Incorporate robust tenant protections for all rental properties receiving City support, including streamlining the application process for affordable units. ● Support tenant organizing and engagement and provide legal and other assistance to tenants facing eviction or displacement. ● Provide tenant relocation assistance and emergency rental assistance. “I’m concerned that the low- income and marginalized communities in Austin are being pushed out and reducing the vibrancy and diversity of our city.” – Austin community member Strategy 2: Fund affordable housing Increase funding for the City’s current Housing Trust Fund and support capacity building for community development corporations. How we’ll get there: ● The City may purchase properties in gentrifying areas to preserve or develop new affordable housing units with a range of housing types, such as single-family, duplex, townhomes, etc. ● Recalibrate, streamline and expand density bonus programs to serve renters at or below 60% Median Family Income (MFI). Support the creation of deeply affordable units within the growth centers, corridors, and transit-rich areas at 20% and 30% MFI and below. ● Implement a preference policy to prioritize new City-subsidized affordable units for income- qualified households. ● Make the application process for deeply affordable housing easier, more transparent, and more efficient. | 60 Strategy 3: Enhance community engagement for affordable housing and anti- displacement programs Include low-income communities, communities of color, and people with disabilities directly affected by systemic inequalities in the City’s Housing Investment Review Committee activities and when creating anti-displacement programs. Enhance direct outreach of Housing and Planning Department-subsidized affordable units in gentrifying areas with culturally relevant communication strategies. By 2030, 50% of trips in Austin are made using public transit, biking, walking, carpooling, or avoided altogether by working from home*. *Based on City of Austin and Capital Metro data, includes all trips, and was approximately 20% in 2019. Strategy 1: Expand and improve public transportation Work with …
10. Proposed resolution in support of proposed Land Development Code amendments — original pdf
WHEREAS, the Joint Sustainability Commi(cid:425)ee recognizes that the City of Aus(cid:415)n’s vision for net zero emissions by 2040 outlined in the Aus(cid:415)n Climate Equity Plan priori(cid:415)zes greenhouse gas emission reduc(cid:415)on and calls for 50% of trips to be made by using public transit, biking, walking, carpooling, or avoided altogether by working from home; and WHEREAS, the Aus(cid:415)n Climate Equity Plan outlines how increased property values forces low‐ income residents to the outskirts of Aus(cid:415)n, increasing their dependency on carbon‐intensive automobiles; and WHEREAS, the Aus(cid:415)n Climate Equity Plan outlines specific housing goals to create complete communi(cid:415)es where residents are less reliant on carbon intensive vehicles, including preserving and producing 135,000 housing units with 75% located within ½ mile of Imagine Aus(cid:415)n ac(cid:415)vity centers and corridors; and WHEREAS, the Joint Sustainability Commi(cid:425)ee recognizes that driving contributes to the crea(cid:415)on of ground‐level ozone, which is a harmful air pollutant that causes and contributes to asthma and other respiratory illnesses; and WHEREAS, the Office of Sustainability’s September 2023 Carbon Footprint Update to the Aus(cid:415)n Climate Equity Plan shows that transporta(cid:415)on is the single greatest source of CO2 emissions locally; and WHEREAS, the same update recognizes that vehicle ownership and home size are two of the most significant factors to determine Aus(cid:415)nites’ household‐level emissions; WHEREAS, a report by Environment Texas outlines that compact development delivers environmental benefits including improved water quality, reduced energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, reduced water use, reduced flood risk, and improved air quality, NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Joint Sustainability Commi(cid:425)ee recommends that the Aus(cid:415)n City Council approve amendments to the land development code that allow for more compact and connected communi(cid:415)es in keeping with the goals of the Aus(cid:415)n Climate Equity Plan. Specifically, the Joint Sustainability Commi(cid:425)ee recommends approval of the following: 1. amendments included in the Home Op(cid:415)ons for Middle‐income Empowerment (HOME) ini(cid:415)a(cid:415)ve including allowing three units per single‐family lot by right and reducing the minimum lot size requirement to allow for smaller single‐family homes; 2. the Tiny Home resolu(cid:415)on to allow for (cid:415)ny homes within single family zoning districts; 3. elimina(cid:415)on of all city occupancy limits to allow for flexible, affordable co‐living op(cid:415)ons within the City of Aus(cid:415)n, reducing the need for Aus(cid:415)nites to move to the outskirts of Aus(cid:415)n in search of affordable housing and associated dependency on carbon‐intensive automobiles, and reducing household‐level emissions through shared consump(cid:415)on of energy.
2. Austin Resource Recovery Zero Waste Comprehensive Plan Update — original pdf
www.austintexas.gov 2023 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN DRAFT TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Chapter 2 Department Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 Department Structure Overview Departmental Mission and Vision 2.2a Core Values 2.2b Departmental Commitment to Racial Equity Departmental Organization 2.3a Collection Services 2.3b Customer Service 2.3c Diversion Facilities 2.3d Finance 2.3e Human Resources 2.3f Litter Abatement 2.3g Quality Assurance 2.3h Strategic initiatives 2.3 i Support Services Department Culture Profile 2.4a Workplace Culture Financial Responsibility Overview Accounting and Funding Financial Planning and Budgeting Revenue 3.4a Collection Fees 3.4b Clean Community Fee 3.4c Other Revenue Expenditures 3.5a Program Requirements 3.5b Transfers Out 3.5c Other Requirements Reserve Funds Chapter 3 Financial Responsibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 3 3 4 4 4 4 5 5 5 6 6 6 6 7 7 7 9 9 10 10 10 10 11 11 11 12 13 13 i DRAFT Chapter 4 Sustainability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Chapter 7 Engagement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Chapter 5 Metrics and Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Chapter 8 Facilities and Infrastructure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 4.1 4.2 4.3 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.5 6.6 Sustainability Overview interdepartmental Collaboration 4.2a Austin Green Business Leaders 4.2b Bright Green Futures Grant 4.2c Green Teams 4.2d Administrative Bulletins on Sustainable Purchasing Alignment with Austin Climate Equity Plan 4.3a Transportation Electrification 4.3b Food and Product Consumption Metrics and Measurements Overview Metrics for Measuring and Tracking Waste 5.2a Disposal Data Sources 5.2b Diversion Rates 5.2c Capture Rate 5.2d Per Capita Disposal Rate Challenges Near-Term Goals Circular …
2. Austin Resource Recovery Zero Waste Comprehensive Plan Update - Presentation — original pdf
ARR Comprehensive Plan Update for JSC October 25, 2023 Meeting Agenda Introductions Planning Process Benchmarking Research & Analysis Stakeholder Engagement ARR Comprehensive Plan Overview Questions and Next Steps 2 Introductions 3 Update to 2011 Zero Waste Master Plan • The existing 2011 Zero Waste Master Plan has been renamed to the 2023 Zero Waste Comprehensive Plan • 2011 Plan had a goal to reach 90% diversion by the year 2040 • The 2011 plan focused on introduction to zero waste and access to services • This is a roadmap for the next 10 years 4 Key Accomplishments Since 2011 • Curbside Composting at Single Family Homes • Universal Recycling – recycling, food donation, or composting access for employees at all businesses and food permitted businesses • Construction Debris Recycling 5 Planning Process 6 Planning Process Early Improvement Recommendations Feasibility Matrix Preferred Strategies Benchmarking Research Key Definitions, Data/Technology & Policy Issues Analyze Multiple ARR Topics Establish Plan Goals & Objectives Identify Alternatives Evaluate Options Research, Analysis & Recommendations Develop Strategies & Options Multiple Strategy Workshops ARR Comprehensive Plan City/Stakeholder Engagement & Public Outreach Develop Outline & Write Multiple Drafts Based on Workshop and Stakeholder Engagement Feedback 7 Benchmarking 8 Benchmarking Overview Benchmarked 13 Zero Waste cities Zero Waste definitions Technology solutions Policy issues Key findings & recommendations to inform Comprehensive Plan 9 Benchmarking Results Year when City Adopted Zero Waste Vision 2008 2008 2013 1998 2005 2015 2012 2010 N/A N/A 2014 2013 2009 City Los Angeles Portland San Diego Seattle Austin Minneapolis Phoenix San Antonio Fort Worth Denver Boston Dallas San Francisco Published Diversion Rate* Waste Generators Considered Percent Year Commercial Single- Family Multi- Family Construction & Demolition (C&D) 76% 70% 65% 57% 42% 37% 36% 36% 30% 23% 21% 21% City does not use diversion rate 2011 2015 2018 2018 2015 2016 2019 2019 2018 2019 2019 2016 N/A ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ *Metrics are based on data published at the time of benchmarking analysis (2020). More recent diversion rates may have been published by cities but were not updated within the table in order to maintain a baseline benchmarking comparison. ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 1 0 Benchmarking Results ► Of 13 benchmark cities, Austin’s diversion rate only trails west coast cities (LA, Portland, …
9. Draft minutes from Sep 27 JSC Meeting — original pdf
JOINT SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING MEETING MINUTES Sep 27, 2023 The Joint Sustainability Committee convened in a hybrid meeting via videoconferencing and at AE Headquarters. Acting Chair Diana Wheeler called the Board Meeting to order at 6:05 pm. Board Members in Attendance in Person: Diana Wheeler, Alice Woods, Jon Salinas, Yure Suarez, Rodrigo Leal, Chris Maxwell-Gaines, Chris Campbell Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Lane Becker, Heather Houser, Melissa Rothrock, Kaiba White, Charlotte Davis Board Members Absent: Kelsey Hitchingham, Haris Qureshi, Larry Franklin, Bertha Delgado City Staff in Attendance: Zach Baumer CALL TO ORDER 9. Approval of minutes from the July 26th meeting of the Joint Sustainability Committee. Motion by White, seconded by Suarez. Approved unanimously (10-0, Maxwell-Gaines and Campbell off dais) PUBLIC COMMUNICATION Scott Johnson (air quality advocate) spoke on the importance of sustainable purchasing to encourage improved air quality Monica Guzman (Go Austin/Vamos Austin) spoke on the need for neighborhood circulators/shuttles in the Rundberg area of North Austin. 1. City of Austin Carbon Footprints, Phillip Duran, Office of Sustainability White: Great news that we got more funding for this department that needs even more Discussions of pros and cons of using 100-year Global Warming Potential measures vs funding for the large job it does. 20-year GWP Discussion on how to communicate consumption-based emissions 2. Climate Pollution Reduction Grants – Rohan Lilauwala, Office of Sustainability Unclear about whether GHG reductions include Scope 1-3 emissions 4. Updates from the Planning Commission – Alice Woods PC joint meeting with Council on Oct 26 to discuss changes to Land Development Code, voted by PC on Nov 14, Council on Dec 14. Impacts have positive sustainability impacts. Encourages JSC to pass resolution in support of the item. Wants to explore sustainability guide – can help provide objective source of environmental information. 5. Updates from Urban Transportation Commission – Diana Wheeler Encourages defending Project Connect, uses examples of other cities. Congress Ave urban design plan update 6. Updates from Water/Wastewater Commission – Chris Maxwell-Gaines Austin Water external review to improve organization effectiveness and resilience Water supply – Austin at stage 2 water restrictions since Aug 15 7. Updates from Resource Management Commission – Charlotte Davis RMC considering resolution around AE Green Choice – repurpose program towards dispatchable renewable energy and storage 8. Updates from Electric Utility Commission – Kaiba White …