REGULAR MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD NOVEMBER 24, 2025 – 6:00 PM CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS, ROOM 1001 301 W. 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Parks and Recreation Board may 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, click here: https://forms.office.com/g/k3M15rBDby or call or email Tim Dombeck, (512) 974-6716, Tim.Dombeck@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Stephanie Bazan (D-5), Chair Kathryn Flowers (D-4), Vice Chair Shelby Orme (D-1) Pedro Villalobos (D-2) Nicole Merritt (D-3) Luai Abou-Emara (D-6) Diane Kearns-Osterweil (D-7) Kim Taylor (D-8) AGENDA Jennifer Franklin (D-9) Ted Eubanks (D-10) Lane Becker (Mayor) 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. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of October 27, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. 3. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for the Austin Parks and Recreation Cemeteries Team who have recently assumed responsibility for providing internment services. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) (PARD Long Range Strategies: Operational Efficiency, Park Access for All). Presenter(s): Jason Walker, Cemeteries Division Manager, Austin Parks and Recreation. Presentation, discussion, and approve a recommendation to City Council to approve 6,327 sq. ft. of permanent waterline use on parkland located at Colorado River Park Wildlife Sanctuary and Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Metro Park, total mitigation to be paid by Austin Water Utility is $37,651. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) (PARD Long Range Strategies: Operational Efficiency, Program Alignment). Presenter(s): Tony Buonodono, Engineer of Record, MWM Design Group; Bryce Barkus, Project Manager, Austin Capital Delivery Services; Megan Costey, Engineer, Austin Water. Page 1 of 2 4. Discussion and appoint a member of the Parks and Recreation Board to the Austin Transportation and Public Works Public Spaces Task Force on Pavement Marking Compliance. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) STAFF BRIEFINGS 5. Staff briefing on Parks and Recreation Department community engagement events, planning updates, development updates, maintenance updates, program …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20251124-3 Date: November 24, 2025 Subject: Replacement of Waterline Under The Colorado River at US183 South Motioned By: Pedro Villalobos Seconded By: Lane Becker Recommendation The Parks and Recreation Board Recommends to City Council to approve 6,327 sq. ft. of permanent waterline use on parkland located at Colorado River Park Wildlife Sanctuary and Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Metro Park, total mitigation to be paid by Austin Water Utility is $37,651. Vote: The motion to recommend to City Council to approve 6,327 sq. ft. of permanent waterline use on parkland located at Colorado River Park Wildlife Sanctuary and Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Metro Park, total mitigation to be paid by Austin Water Utility is $37,651 was approved on Board Member Villalobos’ motion, Board Member Becker’s second on a 9-0. Board Members Franklin and Taylor absent. For: Stephanie Bazan, Kathryn Flowers, Luai Abou-Emara, Lane Becker, Ted Eubanks, Diane Kearns-Osterweil, Nicole Merritt, Shelby Orme, Pedro Villalobos. Against: None. Abstain: None. Absent: Jennifer Franklin, Kim Taylor. Attest: Tim Dombeck, Board and Council Liaison, Austin Parks and Recreation
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 27, 2025 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 27, 2025 The PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD convened in a REGULAR meeting on October 27, 2025 at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas Chair Bazan called the PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Luai Abou-Emara, Stephanie Bazan, Ted Eubanks, Kathryn Flowers, Diane Kearns-Osterweil, Pedro Villalobos. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Lane Becker, Jennifer Franklin, Nicole Merritt, Shelby Orme. Board Members Absent: Kim Taylor. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carol Baxter - Austin Rowing Club Paulina Guerrero - Austin Rowing Club Gail Rothe - Review Landscaping Policies and Practices Mark May - Park funding and fee waivers Santiago Tzawan - Festival Beach Food Forrest APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of September 29, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of September 29, 2025 was approved on Chair Bazan’s motion, Board Member Abou- Emara’s second on a 10-0 vote. Board Member Taylor absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for the Austin Parks and Recreation Athletics Team for adult sports program offerings including upcoming initiatives designed to expand equitable access to adult sports opportunities throughout the city. Jim Kotick, Recreation Program Manager and Elizabeth Tajchman, Recreation Program Supervisor, Austion Parks and Recreation gave a presentation and answered questions on the City Olympics. Page 1 of 3 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 27, 2025 The motion to approve letters of support for the Austin Parks and Recreation Athletics Team for adult sports program offerings including upcoming initiatives designed to expand equitable access to adult sports opportunities throughout the city was approved on Vice Chair Flowers’ motion, Board Member Villalobos’ second on a 10-0 vote. Board Member Taylor absent. 3. Presentation, discussion, and approve a recommendation to City Council to approve an ordinance amending City Code Title 25 Land Development Code to allow for an administrative variance to drainage easement requirements associated with development projects on parkland owned by the City of Austin. Kevin Shunk, Floodplain Administrator, Austin Watershed Protection gave a presentation and answered questions on any additions made to this presentation since it was given to the Environmental Commission, the nature of this change, the process that would exist between Austin Parks …
Cemetery Operations Austin Parks & Recreation | November 24, 2025 Municipal Legacy Cemetery Operations represents one of the City’s earliest public services and longest-running municipal responsibilities. This historic foundation underscores the City’s long-standing commitment to dignified, quality service, and accountable customer service and management. Key Milestones: 1839: Oakwood Cemetery Established 1872 – 1915: Stanley Nolen, Longview, Plummers, and Oakwood Annex established 1926: Evergreen Cemetery Established 1927: Austin Memorial Park Cemetery Established Today: 7 cemeteries spanning approximately 200 acres; 80,000+ burials and monuments 2 History of Contractual Operations 1986: Public Works ends management; PARD assumes responsibility 1990 – 2013: InterCare Inc. manages all aspects of cemetery operations. This shift in responsibilities limited City control over interments and operational consistency to oversight. 2013 – 2025: resumed administrative duties; PARD begins rebuilding internal capacity. September 25, 2025: City of Austin assumes full responsibility for all aspects of management at city cemeteries including all interment and burial services. 3 Interment and Burial Training Model 1. Observation and SOP Development ▪ Staff Observed Contractor Processes ▪ City SOPs drafted and standardized 2. Collaborative Training with Contractor (ISI) ▪ Hands-on practice with contractor oversight 3. Cemetery Operations assumes Cremains Burials ▪ Full internal execution at all municipal cemeteries 4. Final Joint Training Sessions ▪ Continued skill validation through November 2025 ▪ For more than three decades, interment operations were outsourced, limiting the City’s ability to provide consistent service, accountability, and transparency. The return to full municipal operations is the result of a deliberate, multi-year rebuilding process with an emphasis on training, safety, precision, accountability, and operational consistency – ensuring a seamless transition to in-house services. 4 Final Preparations & Investments ▪ Staffing Enhancements ▪ Equipment Procurement ▪ Operational Readiness & Service Delivery ▪ Strong Industry Partnerships ▪ Responsive & Reliable Operations ▪ Vision for the Future ▪ The investments and strong partnerships with industry and community stakeholders will help to modernize and ensure full operational capability at all municipal cemeteries for future generations. Cemetery Operations is fully prepared – operationally, logistically, and professionally – to deliver dignified services fully. Our goal is not only to replace the contractor model – but to exceed it in quality, accountability, and public trust. 5 Questions & Comments
Replacement of Waterline Under The Colorado River at US183 South PID 3212.194 Tony Buonodono, P.E., PMP MWM DesignGroup, Inc. November 24, 2025 Agenda ▪ Overall Project Summary ▪ Why the Waterline is Necessary and Why Here? ▪ No Surface or Tree Impacts ▪ Waterline (WL) Easements North and South of the Colorado River ▪ Summary of Requested Easements 2 Overall Project Summary ▪ The objective of this project is to ensure Austin Water customers have a reliable water system by replacing the existing waterline that is aging and exposed in the Colorado River ▪ Originally part of a Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority (CTRMA) project that required the existing waterline to be relocated but was separated due to transportation improvements being delayed. ▪ Proposed Water Easements within parkland ▪ 270 LF of 36” W by Bore (HDD) south of Colorado River ▪ 145 LF of 36” W by Bore (HDD) north of Colorado River 3 Proposed Colorado River Crossing Why the Waterline is Necessary and Why Here? ▪ Crossing is critical to the water system ▪ Existing line is 74 years old and exposed in the river ▪ Alternate options evaluated: ▪ Hanging from bridge ▪ Bridge not designed to carry the waterline ▪ Bridge is over 20’ above grade at northern tie-in point ▪ Move to the other side of the existing line ▪ Conflicts with existing bridge ▪ Move to the other side of the bridge or between 183 bridges ▪ Does not maintain looping for the system or would require additional TxDOT crossings and additional pipe to loop 4 No Surface or Tree Impacts to APR Property Waterline will be bored with Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) is a construction technique whereby a tunnel is drilled under a waterway or other designated area, and a pipeline or other utility is pulled through the drilled underground tunnel. 5 Proposed Colorado River Crossing Looking north from the southern bank Looking south from the northern bank 6 Summary of Requested Easements ▪ 4,155 square feet north of the Colorado River ▪ 2,172 square feet south of the Colorado River Easements will NOT have surface impacts or tree impacts within APR property, and no temporary use is needed due to HDD. 7 Chapter 26 of the Parks and Wildlife Code (PWC) Due Diligence for Utility Assignment Section 26.001 A department may not approve any project that requires the …
M E M O R A N D U M O F U N D E R S T A N D I N G TO: Shay Ralls Roalson, P. E. M.O.U. # PARD 25-005 Director, Austin Water FROM: Jesús Aguirre, MBA, CPRE Director, Austin Parks and Recreation SUBJECT: Colorado Sanctuary Water Crossing FDU: 3960 2207 8257; Project I.D.: 3212.194 DATE: Austin Water is allowed to use parkland located at Colorado River Park Wildlife Sanctuary, 5800 Levander Loop and Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Metro Park-400 Grove Boulevard, for a replacement of a waterline located under the Colorado River at US 183 South as indicated on Attachment “B” (Location Map). The parkland requested is for permanent use. The requested area is: Permanent Use: 6,327 sq.ft. = $37,651 Total Parkland Mitigation Amount Due = $37,651 Austin Water is in an agreement to provide the following mitigation ($37,651) in return for the permanent use of the parkland after City Council has approved this request. The estimated project start date is January 2026. The estimated date of final completion is July 2026. Proposed waterline is to be bored under parkland with no surface impacts. Existing trails and pedestrian network must remain open to the public during construction. Any damage to existing trails and pedestrian network must be repaired at the sole cost of Austin Water. In the event repairs are necessary, Austin Parks and Recreation must review and accept prior to project completion. It is the responsibility of the Austin Capital Delivery Services Project Manager and/or the Austin Water Engineer to notify Austin Parks and Recreation of the Notice to Proceed and when mobilization starts. Extension/modification of parkland use must receive prior written approval from Austin Parks and Recreation. Austin Capital Delivery Services Project Manager and/or the Austin Water Engineer must notify Austin Parks and Recreation upon completion of construction within parkland. This Memorandum of Understanding must be executed within 30 Calendar Days of City Council approval. Funds Transfer in the amount of $37,651 to be paid within 30 Calendar Days after execution of this Memorandum of Understanding. Austin Water Point of Contact: Meagan Costey Phone Number: 512-972-2149 1 of 2 Austin Capital Delivery Services Point of Contact: Bryce Barkus Phone Number: 512-978-0830 Austin Parks and Recreation Point of Contact: Paul Books Phone Number: 512-978-1315 Parks & Recreation Board: 11/24/2025 City Council: ____________________________________________________________ Jesús Aguirre, MBA, CPRE Director, Austin Parks and Recreation Date …
ATTACHMENT "A" - M.O.U. MITIGATION FEES CALCULATION WORKSHEET - SUMMARY Permanent Use Calculated Fee $37,651 TOTAL = $37,651 Project: AW-Colorado Sanctuary Water Crossing 5800 Levander Loop Austin,TX 78702 MOU # 25-005 3212.194 ATTACHMENT "A" - M.O.U. MITIGATION FEES CALCULATION WORKSHEET Permanent Use Agreement - Subject Tract TCAD Land Value of Subject Properties ($): $556,935,510 Project: AW-Colorado Sanctuary Water Crossing 5800 Levander Loop Austin,TX 78702 MOU # 25-005 Avg. Lot Size (sq. ft.): 9,358,899 Based on average for subject properties Value per Square Foot. ($): $60 TCAD Land Value divided by Avg. Lot Size Requested Area (sq. ft.): 6,327 Submitted by Requesting Department/Entity Preliminary Mitigation Value ($): $376,511 Requested Area multiplied by the Value per Square Foot Disturbance Value (%): 10.00% Based on limitations on future development for that portion of parkland (see table below) Final Mitigation Value ($): $37,651 Preliminary Mitigation Value multiplied by the Disturbance Value DISTURBANCE VALUES Percentage of Fee 0-10% Comments Nominal effect on use and utility 11-25% 26-49% 50% 51-74% 75-89% 90-100% Subsurface or air rights that have minimal effect on use and utility Location along a property line or non usable land area Balanced use by both owner and easement holder Some impact on surface use and conveyance of ingress/egress rights Major impact on surface use and conveyance of future uses Severe impact on surface use and conveyance of future uses Example Uses small subsurface Air rights, water or sewer line. Water or sewer line, cable lines Water or sewer line, cable lines pipelines, scenic easements pipelines, drainage easements, flowage easements Overhead electric, flowage easements, railroad ROW, irrigation canals Source: Right of Way Magazine "Easement Valuation" Sherwood, May/June 2006. Provided by City of Austin Office of Real Estate Park Name Colorado River Sanctuary Roy G Guerrero Park Prop ID Square Ft Land Value 283892 283146 1,868,833 16,848,964 9,358,899 18,688,330 1,095,182,689 Certified 2025 TCAD data Certified 2025 TCAD data 556,935,510 Average
125 E 11th St | Austin, Texas 78701 512.463.8588 txdot.gov October 8, 2025 To: City and County Transportation Officials Subject: Compliance with Pavement Marking Standards on Public Roads in Texas Dear Colleagues, The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is committed to ensuring the safety and uniformity of traffic control devices across all public roads in Texas. This letter serves to affirm both federal and state policy regarding pavement surface markings and traffic control devices, including those installed and maintained by local jurisdictions. On July 1, 2025, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced the SAFE ROADS Initiative (Safe Arterials for Everyone through Reliable Operations and Distraction-Reducing Strategies). The initiative emphasizes that intersections and crosswalks should be “kept free from distractions,” including political messages, artwork, or any other non-standard markings that may compromise safety. This aligns with longstanding FHWA guidance regarding colored pavement. See FHWA Interpretation Letter 3(09)-24(I) (2013). TxDOT promulgates federal standards through the Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (TMUTCD), under the authority granted by Texas Transportation Code §§ 544.001, and 201.103. Local authorities are required to comply with the TMUTCD by section 544.002. These statutes require uniformity in traffic control devices and authorize TxDOT to oversee compliance on public roadways. Non-standard surface markings, signage, and signals that do not directly support traffic control or safety may cause confusion, reduce roadway uniformity, and impair the effectiveness of both human and automated vehicle navigation. Consistency in traffic control devices is essential to maintaining a safe and efficient transportation network. Pavement markings such as decorative crosswalks, murals, or markings conveying artwork or other messages are prohibited on travel lanes, shoulders, intersections, and crosswalks unless they serve a direct traffic control or safety function. This prohibition includes the use of symbols, flags, or other markings conveying any message or communications. Connecting you with Texas An Equal Opportunity Employer Compliance-Pavement Marking Standards 2 October 8, 2025 Local jurisdictions must remedy any non-compliant installations within 30 days. Exceptions may be granted only with written approval from TxDOT’s Traffic Safety Division, based on a demonstrated public safety benefit or compelling justification. Failure to comply may result in: • Withholding or denial of state or federal funding • Suspension of agreements between TxDOT and the local jurisdiction • Required removal or modification of non-compliant markings on roads that are part of the state highway system or funded through TxDOT-administered programs I have asked that your TxDOT …
MEMORANDUM To: Mayor and City Council Through: Michael Rogers, Assistant City Manager From: Date: Richard Mendoza, P.E., Director, Austin Transportation & Public Works November 5, 2025 Subject: Update on Pavement Marking Compliance and the Public Spaces Task Force The purpose of this memorandum is to provide an update on the Public Spaces Task Force and City’s efforts to comply with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) letter regarding pavement markings dated October 8, 2025. The Public Spaces Task Force will be staffed by Austin Transportation & Public Works (ATPW). This task force will be active for up to 90 days. Public Spaces Task Force Roster Six Square Cultural District - Daphne McDole • African American Resource Advisory Commission - Daryl Horton • Asian American Resource Advisory Commission – Padmini Jambulapati • Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Commission – Amanda Afifi • Urban Transportation Commission – Susan Somers • Austin LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce – Colton Ashabranner • Greater Austin Black Chamber of Commerce – Tam Hawkins • Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce – Monica Andry • • Mayoral – Steven Rivas • District 2 – KC Coyne • District 4 – Nikki DaVaughn • District 3 – Miriam Dorantes • District 6 – Skyler Korgel • District 7 – Chas Moore • District 8 – Garry Brown • District 10 – Devan Daniel Representatives for the following groups are pending confirmation: Arts Commission, Design Commission, Downtown Commission, LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission, Parks & Recreation Board, Tourism Commission, Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce, as well as the Council Districts not listed. Date: November 5, 2025 Subject: Update on Pavement Marking Compliance and the Public Spaces Task Force The first meeting of the Public Spaces Task Force will be held on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at 5:30pm, in the Permitting and Development Center. The members will be charged with identifying and making recommendations for the City to “celebrate diversity, show our love of equality, acknowledge contributions to Austin’s culture and character, and present Austin as a unique, creative place wanting to be better by being inclusive.” The Task Force’s work shall focus on ideas that do not violate federal or state requirements and consider funding options, including seeking corporate and philanthropic giving. Potential Financial Impacts of Compliance The initial cost associated with labor and materials if the City is required to address all locations is estimated between $125,000 and …
AUSTIN PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR’S UPDATE November, 2025 Park Development Beverly S. Sheffield Northwest District Park Duck Pond Why did it dry up? • Poolfill line leakage repaired • Runoff from smaller rains blocked from entering • Water leaking through bottom despite shale Why is it overflowing now? • Runoff from larger rains What can be done? • Short-term grading improvements can help water flow in and out of the pond in a more consistent, predictable way. • Working with Watershed Protection to implement. • Also investigating how to address water in parking lot. • Feasibility of long-term solutions, such as routing spring water, adding a storm drain, and a pond liner being explored. Water level low Water level high Park Development Violet Crown Mile Zero Trailhead at Zilker Metro Park • Project led by the Hill Country Conservancy. • Features new trailhead archway, meadow pavilion, observation deck, bike racks and more. • Funding provided by the Hill Country Conservancy, Austin Parks Foundation, and City of Austin Parkland Dedication funds. • Ribbon cutting ceremony was held on November 15. KXAN photo Architectural Development Gus Garcia Recreation Center Senior Wing Project • Project identified in the citywide Senior and Recreation Center Facility Gap Analysis • Scope is to expand existing rec center to create a welcoming space for seniors and senior programming. • Public engagement kicked off with a pop-up on November 10. • Survey open until December 12. Link to survey! Architectural Development Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse Rehabilitation at Barton Springs Pool • Partial opening on October 28 • Restroom and shower spaces, and most of the front parking lot now open to the public. • Rotunda and west side remain closed for construction. Recreation Services Adaptive Kayak Lake Cleanup – Modifications and Support The It’s My Parks Adaptive Kayaking event on Saturday, November 1, held in partnership with the Austin Parks Foundation and the Camacho Activity Center, included 41 volunteers and removed 268 pounds of trash from Lady Bird Lake. Free Meals for Youth Participants – Health Promotions APR partners with the Central Texas Food Bank (CTFB) to provide meals during after school programming. Despite funding shortages and on-going cuts, the CTFB will be providing weekend meals for youth through the 'backpack' program. Nine recreation centers will participate in the program, providing a projected 320 meals a week to families in need. Community Recreation Montopolis Recreation Center Staff at …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD OCTOBER 27, 2025 – 6:00 PM CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS, ROOM 1001 301 W. 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Parks and Recreation Board may 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, click here: https://forms.office.com/g/9LMCgndapf or call or email Tim Dombeck, (512) 974-6716, Tim.Dombeck@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Stephanie Bazan (D-5), Chair Kathryn Flowers (D-4), Vice Chair Shelby Orme (D-1) Pedro Villalobos (D-2) Nicole Merritt (D-3) Luai Abou-Emara (D-6) Diane Kearns-Osterweil (D-7) Kim Taylor (D-8) Jennifer Franklin (D-9) Ted Eubanks (D-10) Lane Becker (Mayor) CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA 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. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of September 29, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for the Austin Parks and Recreation Athletics Team for adult sports program offerings including upcoming initiatives designed to expand equitable access to adult sports opportunities throughout the city. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) (PARD Long Range Strategies: Park Access for All, Urban Public Spaces). Presenter(s): Jim Kotick, Recreation Program Manager and Elizabeth Tajchman, Recreation Program Supervisor, Austin Parks and Recreation. Page 1 of 2 3. 4. Presentation, discussion, and approve a recommendation to City Council to approve an ordinance amending City Code Title 25 Land Development Code to allow for an administrative variance to drainage easement requirements associated with development projects on parkland owned by the City of Austin. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) (PARD Long Range Strategies: Operational Efficiency, Program Alignment). Presenter(s): Kevin Shunk, Floodplain Administrator, Austin Watershed Protection. Discussion and approve setting the Parks and Recreation Board 2026 regular meeting schedule as the 4th Monday of each month, except May and December, and May 18th at 6:00 p.m. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) STAFF BRIEFINGS 5. 6. Staff briefing on a Commercial Landscape Equipment Electrification Market Study. (Sponsors: …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD 2026 MEETING SCHEDULE (4th Monday of each month, except May and December, and May 18th at 6:00 p.m.) January 26, 2026 February 23, 2026 March 23, 2026 April 27, 2026 May 18, 2026 (Memorial Day is May 25th) June 22, 2026 July 27, 2026 August 24, 2026 September 28, 2026 October 26, 2026 November 23, 2026
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES SEPTEMBER 29, 2025 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES SEPTEMBER 29, 2025 The PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD convened in a REGULAR meeting on September 29, 2025 at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas Chair Bazan called the PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Luai Abou-Emara, Stephanie Bazan, Lane Becker, Ted Eubanks, Kathryn Flowers, Jennifer Franklin, Nicole Merritt (arrived at 6:06 p.m.), Pedro Villalobos (arrived at 6:06 p.m.). Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Diane Kearns-Osterweil (arrived at 7:19 p.m.), Shelby Orme. Board Members Absent: Kim Taylor. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL David Todd - Renaming Little Stacy Shelter House in honor of Jean Mather Mary Fero - NW Park Pond issues Carol Baxter - Austin Rowing Club Craig Nazor - Sierra Club and mowing at Northstar Greenbelt Linda Mendoza - East Austin Sports Teams (EAST) Robert Mendoza - East Austin Sports Team (EAST) Tony Castillo - East Austin Sports Team (EAST) Israel Lopez - Montopolis Little League Kayle Reese - Austin Parks Foundation APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of August 25, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of August 25, 2025 was approved on Board Member Villalobos’ motion, Vice Chair Flowers’ second on a 9-0 vote. Board Members Kearns-Osterweil and Taylor absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for the Austin Parks and Recreation Parkland Acquisition team for their work toward ensuring that residents of Austin live within a 5 to 10-minute walk from a park and enjoy a robust network of trails that connects all parts of the city. Randy Scott, Parkland Use and Acquisition Manager and Principal Planners Paul Books, Robynne Heymans, and Scott Grantham, Parks and Recreation Department gave a presentation and answered questions on AISD joint school and parkland closures and the TPL ParkScore Index. 1 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES SEPTEMBER 29, 2025 The motion to approve letters of support for the Austin Parks and Recreation Parkland Acquisition team for their work toward ensuring that residents of Austin live within a 5 to 10- minute walk from a park and enjoy a robust network of trails that connects all parts of the city was approved on Vice Chair Flowers’ motion, Board Member Eubanks second on a …
Austin Parks & Recreation Adult Athletics Year-Round Adult Programs Austin Parks & Recreation offers inclusive recreational leagues for men, women, and co-ed teams across the city, creating opportunities for athletes of all skill levels to compete and connect. Softball 16 ballfields across Austin Basketball 8 community recreation centers Volleyball 5 outdoor courts plus Austin Recreation Center Flag Football 2 multipurpose fields 1,113 Team Registrations Total teams participating in 2024 leagues 11,553 Community Members Austin residents engaged through adult sports Annual Tournaments & Events Austin Parks & Recreation collaborates with over 40 local businesses and external organizations to coordinate tournaments and community events throughout the year, fostering partnerships that strengthen Austin's sports community. • • • • • Recovery ATX National Softball Association of the Deaf Pride Sports USA Ryan Kelly Classic Stonewall Sports Austin • • • • • Liga Venezolana de Softball Pluckers Softball Austin Austin Senior Softball Planet K City Olympics: In collaboration with HRD and GolfATX, the Athletics Division coordinates the annual City Olympics sports tournaments for City of Austin employees and retirees, with more than 900 participants competing in 2025. New & Upcoming Initiatives Austin Parks & Recreation is committed to expanding equitable access and diversifying adult sports opportunities throughout the city with strategic facility upgrades and new program launches. Facility Enhancement Upgrading Krieg multipurpose field to Program Expansion Launching outdoor soccer leagues and synthetic turf, improving playability and senior basketball programs to diversify extending usability year-round adult sports options and serve regardless of weather conditions. previously underrepresented demographics. Contracts & Agreements Strategic contracts and collaborative agreements enable Austin Parks & Recreation to extend programming reach and provide diverse, high-quality athletic facilities across the community. • Austin Tennis Center • Burnett “Blonde” Pharr Tennis Center • South Austin Tennis Center • Caswell Tennis Center • Texas Rollergirls • Huston-Tillotson University • Austin Men’s Soccer Association • Athletic Officials Contract • Softball Umpires Contract
Code Amendment C20-2025-009 Parkland Drainage Easements Austin Watershed Protection | October 27, 2025 Intent of Current Code: Drainage Easements LDC 25-7-152(A) The owner of real property proposed to be developed shall dedicate to the public an easement for stormwater flow to the limits of the 100-year floodplain ▪ Ensures that the current and future property owners know that flood risk exists on their property ▪ Accomplished by surveying the floodplain area on the property 2 Austin Parks and Recreation Project Impacts Under Current Code ▪ Requires solicitation and contract negotiation ▪ Requires multiple rounds of staff review ▪ A Declaration of Use (DOU) requires Real Estate and Legal review ▪ Final approval requires multiple levels of executive review, signatures and recording with associated County fees ▪ Overall process cost: ▪ Consultant for survey (increased significantly over time) ▪ Cost of staff time charged to the project (reducing available money for construction) ▪ Adds cost/time to the site plan review process ▪ Park property remains city-owned unless voter approved for sale through a Chapter 26 process 3 Proposed Code ▪ Add public parkland owned by the City of Austin to the list of options for a variance. ▪ Would not exempt parkland from following all code requirements for development in the floodplain. ▪ If a property is approved for sale, the new owner would be required to dedicate the easement once a subdivision or site plan application is submitted. 4 Proposed Code Language § 25-7-152 - DEDICATION OF EASEMENTS AND RIGHTS-OF-WAY E. For property in the full-purpose limits of the city, the director may grant a variance to Subsection (A) if the director determines: 1) development with the variance does not result in additional adverse flooding of other 2) property; and the development: a) is permitted by a variance granted under Section 25-7-92(C) (Encroachments on Floodplain Prohibited); is permitted in a floodplain under Section 25-7-93 (General Exceptions), Section 25-7- 94 (Exceptions in Central Business Area), Section 25-7-95 (Exceptions for Parking Areas), or Section 25-7-96 (Exceptions in the 25-Year Floodplain); is not a building or parking area; is a non-conforming use, as defined by Chapter 25-12, Article 3 (Flood Hazard Areas); or is on parkland owned by the City of Austin. b) c) d) e) 5 Boards and Commissions Review Schedule Meeting Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee: Initiation Recommendation (approved) Date July 16, 2025 Planning Commission: Initiation Recommendation (approved, initiated) August 12, …
M E M O R A N D U M TO: Parks and Recreation Board Members FROM: Jesús Aguirre, MBA, CPRE, Director Austin Parks and Recreation DATE: September 4, 2025 SUBJECT: Proposed Code Amendment related to Drainage Easements on Parkland This memo is to inform the Parks and Recreation Board of a proposed amendment to Section 25-7- 152(E) of the City of Austin Land Development Code (LDC), which pertains to drainage easement requirements. Background Current code requires that when a property owner submits a site development permit application, they must dedicate a public drainage easement encompassing the 100-year floodplain located on the property. The code includes provisions allowing the Austin Watershed Protection Director to grant an administrative variance under certain circumstances. Proposed Amendment The proposed amendment would add “parkland owned by the City of Austin” to the list of exceptions eligible for an administrative variance from the drainage easement requirement. Final ordinance language will be drafted by the Austin City Attorney’s Office. Importantly, this amendment does not waive or alter existing restrictions or development requirements within the 100-year floodplain. It only applies to the dedication of a drainage easement and only for City parkland. If the parkland is later sold through the Chapter 26 process or voter approval, the new property owner would be required to dedicate a drainage easement as part of any future site plan application. Rationale Allowing an administrative variance for City-owned parkland is expected to improve fiscal and administrative efficiency for public park development and capital projects. Austin Parks and Recreation (APR) and Austin Watershed Protection are in longstanding agreement that this change is appropriate and beneficial. Currently, each parkland development project must provide evidence of this agreement to apply for and receive a variance individually. Codifying this exception will streamline the process and reduce unnecessary administrative work for both departments. Page 1 of 2 Timeline and Next Steps Austin Watershed Protection is the lead on this code amendment. The anticipated schedule includes submittals to the Code Cabinet, Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee, Planning Commission and Environmental Commission starting in September 2025 with an anticipated Planning Commission Public Hearing in October and City Council in November. Should you have any questions, please reach out to D’Anne Williams, PLA, Project Manager, Danne.Williams@austintexas.gov. cc: Liana Kallivoka, PhD, PE, LEED Fellow, Assistant Director, APR Lindsey Machamer, P.E., Project Management Supervisor, Park Development, APR D’Anne Williams PLA, Project Manager, Park …
C20-2025-009 ORDINANCE AMENDMENT REVIEW SHEET Amendment: C20-2025-009 City of Austin parkland drainage easements LDC 25-7 code amendment Description: Amends 25-7-152 (E) as related to parkland drainage easements. The proposed amendment would allow an administrative variance to not require drainage easements associated with development projects on parkland owned by the City of Austin. Proposed Language: Approve an ordinance amending 25-7-152 (E): to allow for an administrative variance to drainage easement requirements associated with development projects on parkland owned by the City of Austin. Background: Current code requires that property owners dedicate a public drainage easement to the limits of the 100-year floodplain as a part of the site development permit approval process. Additionally, 25-7-152 (E) includes provisions allowing the Director to grant an administrative variance under certain circumstances as described in that section. The purpose of the drainage easement is to alert present and future property owners that there is flood risk on the property. There are limitations on the use of the drainage easement and floodplain areas on the property. These uses are regulated by the floodplain regulations. Importantly, an approved administrative variance waiving the drainage easement requirement does not waive or alter existing restrictions or development requirements within the 100-year floodplain. The proposed amendment would only apply to the dedication of a drainage easement on City of Austin parkland. Additionally, if parkland is later sold through the Chapter 26 process and voter approval, the new property owner would be required to dedicate a drainage easement as part of any future site plan application. The process for the sale of public parkland must follow the requirements outlined in Chapter 26 of the Texas statues which serve as a protection for public parks and recreational lands from programs or projects that would change their use or require taking of public land. A benefit of this proposed code change is to reduce the fiscal and administrative burden on new parkland projects by improving efficiency during the permit review process. Austin Parks and Recreation and Austin Watershed Protection are in agreement that this change is appropriate and beneficial. Currently, each parkland development project must apply for a variance and be approved on a case-by-case basis. Codifying this exception will streamline the process and reduce unnecessary administrative work for both departments. Additionally, there will be no impact or change on maintenance or operational responsibilities as a result of the code amendment. Staff Recommendation: Staff …
Commercial Landscaping Equipment Electrification Market Study Background & Policy Context • Austin Climate Equity Plan: net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 • Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos MSA Regional Air Quality Plan: maintain compliance with federal air quality standards • Council resolutions: ◦ 20240229-058: Green purchasing ◦ 20240307-020: Rebates + exchange programs 2 Methodology • Online survey (53 responses) • Interviews (32 local, 7 national) • Site tours • Diverse representation: ◦ City of Austin and other govt. staff ◦ Minority / woman-owned businesses City of Austin Staff Participation by Department ◦ Small and large businesses ◦ Local and national businesses ◦ Early adopters 3 Electric Equipment Benefits Electric Equipment Challenges • Quieter • Cleaner • Easier to handle (for some) • Safer (no fuel handling, improved ergonomics for some) • Less maintenance • Insufficient power output • Insufficient battery life • Charging constraints • Higher upfront cost • Maintenance & disposal uncertainty • Potential for lower lifecycle costs • Heavier and less ergonomic (for some) • Cultural resistance 4 Market-Ready Electric Equipment Not Yet Viable Electric Equipment • Smaller (< 20 bar) chain saws • Larger (≥ 20 bar) chain saws • String and hedge trimmers for light- • String and hedge trimmers for duty applications heavy-duty applications • Leaf blowers for light-duty applications • Leaf blowers for heavy-duty applications and some operators • Push, walk behind, automated • Larger riding mowers and (robotic) mowers, and smaller riding mowers for smaller-acreage and/or single-site applications automated (robotic) mowers for larger-acreage and multi-site applications • Carts / utility terrain vehicles 5 Lead by Example Recommendations • Prioritize outcomes over technology type. • Implement a phased rollout. • Develop citywide charging infrastructure. • Use lifecycle analysis for decision-making. • Leverage service agreements to shift market. • Invest in workforce development. • Plan for equipment end-of-life management. 6 APR Landscaping Equipment Electrification Pilot Program 12 months 6-9 months 3+ months 1. Establish Electrification Team 2. ID Electric Equipment Options 3. Test Equipment Options 4. Assess Charging Infrastructure Readiness 5. Select & Procure Equipment 6. Set Up Equipment Charging & Storage 7. Provide Training & Implement Pilot 8. Evaluate & Scale Program 7 Thank you! Jen: jen@terraluminaconsulting.com Leonor: lvargasconsulting@gmail.com
