REGULAR MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD JUNE 23, 2025 – 6:00 PM CITY HALL CHAMBERS, ROOM 1001 301 W. 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Parks and Recreation Board may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. For remote participation, registration must be completed no later than noon the day before the meeting. To register to speak, click here: https://forms.office.com/g/jep8uWysQ4 or call or email Tim Dombeck, (512) 974- 6716, Tim.Dombeck@austintexas.gov. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and may be allowed up to three (3) minutes to provide their comments. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Stephanie Bazan (D-5), Chair Kathryn Flowers (D-4), Vice Chair Shelby Orme (D-1) Pedro Villalobos (D-2) CALL TO ORDER 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) 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 May 19, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. 3. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for the PARD Senior Programming Team. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) (PARD Long Range Strategies: Park Access for All, Urban Public Spaces). Presenter(s): Kelly Maltsberger, Recreation Program Manager, Parks and Recreation Department. Presentation, discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council to authorize the negotiation and execution of a contract with Legacy Hospitality and Entertainment Group LLC for the operation and management of the Zilker Café to maintain the food and beverage concession at Zilker Park. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) (PARD Long Range Strategies:). Presenter(s): Denisha Cox, Contract Management Supervisor II and Andrew Benford, Contract Management Specialist IV, Parks and Recreation Department. Page 1 of 2 DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Discussion on the Trust for Public Land’s Austin ParkScore Rating. (Sponsors: Eubanks, Abou- Emara) STAFF BRIEFINGS 5. 6. Staff briefing on the parks security audit which was contracted by the Austin Parks Foundation and structured around the principles of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) (PARD Long Range Strategies: Operational Efficiency). Presenter(s): Amanda Ross, Natural Resources Division Manager and Jodi Jay, Assistant Director, Parks and Recreation Department; Joy Casnovsky, Chief Mission Officer, …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES MAY 19, 2025 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MAY 19, 2025 The PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD convened in a REGULAR meeting on May 19, 2025 at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas Chair Bazan called the PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Meeting to order at 6:05 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 (Joined at 6:10 p.m.), Jennifer Franklin, Nicole Merritt. Board Members Absent: Shelby Orme, Kim Taylor. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Malcom Yeatts - East Riverside Oltorf Combined Contact Team Scott Johnson – Parks and Libraries Fund Scott Cobb – Lifeguard issues Ed Miller - East riverside park needs Dayna Williams - Austin Rowing Club APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of April 28, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of April 28, 2025 was approved on Board Member Villalobos’ motion, Board Member Kearns- Osterweil second on a 9-0 vote. Board Members Orme and Taylor absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for the PARD Nature Play program. Christine Chute Canul, Partnership Coordinator and Melody Alcazar, Program Manager, Parks and Recreation Department gave a presentation. The motion to approve letters of support for the PARD Nature Play program was approved on Chair Bazan’s motion, Vice Chair Flowers’ second on a 9-0 vote. Board Members Orme and Taylor absent. 1 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES MAY 19, 2025 3. Presentation, discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council that the Lakeshore PUD Amendment Development application is superior with respect to parkland dedication. Robin Heymans, Principal Planner, Parks and Recreation Department gave a presentation and answered questions on whether this PUD has been controversial, and trail surface material. The motion to approve a recommendation to Austin City Council that the Lakeshore PUD Amendment Development application is superior with respect to parkland dedication was approved on Board Member Villalobos’ motion, Vice Chair Flowers’ second on a 9-0 vote. Board Members Orme and Taylor absent. 4. Presentation, discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council that the 500 S Congress PUD Development application is superior with respect to parkland dedication. Robin Heymans, Principal Planner, Parks and Recreation Department gave a presentation and …
2025 ParkScore Index® Austin, TX 2025 Rank Points 54 51.2 The ParkScore index is a national comparison of park systems across the 100 most populated cities in the United States. Published annually, the index measures park systems according to five categories reflective of an excellent city park system: access, investment, amenities, acreage, and equity. While the rankings provide fodder for friendly competition, the goal each year of publishing the index is to help leaders advocate for needed park resources and provide relevant data to inform local park improvement efforts. To facilitate a fair comparison across cities, the index aggregates across all public and private organizations supporting parks in each city. This year, Austin received a score of 51.2 points out of 100 based on an average of the five categories. There are 15 measures across these categories, with points awarded based on how Austin compares to the other 99 cities for that particular measure. 51 out of 100 points 56 out of 100 points 75 out of 100 points 33 out of 100 points 42 out of 100 points Acreage The acreage score indicates the relative abundance of large ‘destination’ parks, which include large natural areas that provide critical mental health as well as climate and conservation benefits. There are two components to the acreage score. Of these, Austin scores about average on the percentage of the city’s overall area that is dedicated to parkland (41 out of 100 points), and about average on median park size (60 out of 100 points). Access The access score indicates the percentage of a city’s residents that live within a walkable half-mile of a park – the average distance that most people are willing to walk to reach a destination. With 68% of its population living this close to a park, Austin scores about average in this category. Investment The investment score indicates the relative financial health of a city’s park system, which is essential to ensuring the park system is maintained at a high level. This value aggregates park and recreation spending across all agencies and organizations within the city, including monetized volunteer hours. In Austin, a total of $211 per capita is spent each year on publicly accessible parks and recreation, above average for this category. Amenities The amenities score indicates the relative abundance of park activities popular among a diverse selection of user groups (kids, teenagers, adults, seniors). Overall for …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD JUNE 23, 2025 – 6:00 PM BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 301 W. 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Parks and Recreation Board may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. For remote participation, registration must be completed no later than noon the day before the meeting. To register to speak, click here: https://forms.office.com/g/jep8uWysQ4 or call or email Tim Dombeck, (512) 974- 6716, Tim.Dombeck@austintexas.gov. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and may be allowed up to three (3) minutes to provide their comments. 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) REVISED 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 May 19, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. 3. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for the PARD Senior Programming Team. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) (PARD Long Range Strategies: Park Access for All, Urban Public Spaces). Presenter(s): Kelly Maltsberger, Recreation Program Manager, Parks and Recreation Department. Presentation, discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council to authorize the negotiation and execution of a contract with Legacy Hospitality and Entertainment Group LLC for the operation and management of the Zilker Café to maintain the food and beverage concession at Zilker Park. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) (PARD Long Range Strategies:). Presenter(s): Denisha Cox, Contract Management Supervisor II and Andrew Benford, Contract Management Specialist IV, Parks and Recreation Department. Page 1 of 2 DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Discussion on the Trust for Public Land’s Austin ParkScore Rating. (Sponsors: Eubanks, Abou- Emara) STAFF BRIEFINGS 5. 6. Staff briefing on the parks security audit which was contracted by the Austin Parks Foundation and structured around the principles of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) (PARD Long Range Strategies: Operational Efficiency). Presenter(s): Amanda Ross, Natural Resources Division Manager and Jodi Jay, Assistant Director, Parks and Recreation Department; Joy Casnovsky, Chief Mission …
Zilker Cafe Food and Beverage Concession RFP Response, Evaluation, and Recommendation Parks and Recreation Board Meeting June 23, 2025 Presenter: Andrew Benford, PARD Contract Management Specialist IV Denisha Cox, PARD Contract Management Supervisor II 1 Zilker Cafe Location Zilker Café is located next to the entrance to the Barton Springs Municipal Pool 2 Zilker Cafe History & Improvements The Barton Springs Pool/Zilker Park concession building was constructed circa 1960. Zilker Park is listed as a National Register Historic District, and the 60+-year old building, which has been modified over time, contributes to the historic character of the park and pool entrance. The Zilker Café has not been used as a food and beverage concession since 2016 due to a need for extensive renovations, the COVID-19 Pandemic, the dissolution of contract with previous vendor. and A solicitation is needed to select a vendor to manage and operate it once again as a food and beverage concession. 3 Zilker Cafe Barton Springs Pool Bathhouse Rehabilitation Impact • The Barton Springs Pool Bathhouse, near the Zilker Café, is undergoing a major renovation. • During the construction period, access to the café is impacted. • The impact to concession sales was cited in comments during the previous solicitation as a deterrent to the success of food concession. • Now that the construction is nearing completion, PARD has solicited for a vendor to manage and operate the Café. 4 Zilker Cafe Solicitation • City seeks to contract with a qualified Concessionaire to manage and operate the food and beverage concession on the north side of Barton Springs Pool in Zilker Park. Vendor Requirements and Responsibilities include: • Have a minimum of three years’ experience in commercial food and beverage concession operations. • Operate during the preferred minimum hours of operation defined as: seven days per week, six-hours per day. Maximum hours of operation will be in accordance with park policy for curfew, 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. • Have price points for healthy, nutritious foods that are reasonable and affordable for every visitor. • Make improvements, which comply with the American with Disabilities Act, to both the indoor and outdoor areas of the Concession, including capital improvements, furnishings, and equipment in order to meet the City’s vision for the concession. • The sale of alcohol is strictly prohibited. 5 Zilker Cafe Vendor Requirements and Responsibilities (cont’d.) • Provide all equipment necessary …
AUSTIN PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR’S UPDATE June 23, 2025 Welcome to AUSTIN PARKS & RECREATION VISION The Parks and Recreation Department will be an innovative leader in parks and recreation experiences. MISSION Inspire Austin to learn, play, protect and connect by creating diverse programs and experiences in sustainable natural spaces and public places. Ensure Parkland Offers Relief from Urban Life Parks and Recreation Month On June 5, 2025, Austin City Council and Austin Parks and Recreation announce the official City Proclamation recognizing the vital role parks and recreation play in improving the health, wellness and quality of life for all Austin residents. The City of Austin joins communities across the nation in celebrating National Park and Recreation Month this July. Park Planning and Development Project Updates College Row Pocket Park • Acquired by PARD in 2021 at 1901 E 11th St. • The project is in the Community Engagement phase • Community survey was launched May 9 and closed June 10 • Pop-ups were held to promote the survey on May 28 (Delores Duffie Recreation Center) and June 5 (College Row Pocket Park) Zilker Maintenance Barn • Construction scheduled to begin in July • Anticipated to be complete Summer 2026 Operations and Maintenance May Microburst Cleanup On May 28, a sudden storm brought hail, 80 mph winds, and 3 inches of rain to parts of North and East Austin. • Damage was reported in 76 total parks/facilities. 43 of those were developed parks. • • Eastwoods Neighborhood Park was hit hardest. • The storm damaged or blocked access to amenities in 19 locations. Grounds, Forestry and Facilities worked together to coordinate a quick response. • Most damage to developed parkland was cleared or repaired within a week. • Forestry continues to work through brush clearing in natural areas. Park Partnership Events Kids Block Party at Seaholm Intake Facility • Held on June 7 • Held in partnership with The Trail Conservancy and Austin Public Library • 450 attendees Juneteenth Celebration • Held on June 19 • Hosted open house at Montopolis School in partnership with Montopolis Proud • Celebration followed at the Montopolis Recreation Center Recreation Services Learn to Fish Community Events Alamo Recreation Center hosted fishing events from May to June, serving over 50 participants. PBS joined to film the program highlighting Texas Parks and Wildlife fishing license exemption and support for accessible programs. Disability Awareness and Support Training …
PARD ADULT 50+ SERVICES Parks and Recreation Board Meeting June 23, 2025 2 ADULT 50+ SERVICES AREA: • 3 Senior Centers • Conley Guerrero Senior Activity Center & Park • Lamar Senior Activity Center • South Austin Senior Activity Center & Annex • Varsity Generation Recreation Programs • 9 recreation center sites • Congregate Meal Program • 9 locations • Senior Transportation • Senior Outreach Program – 2 satellite locations • Varsity Games (formerly Senior Olympics) SENIOR CENTER FACILITIES: Conley Guerrero Senior Activity Center • 26,000 Sq ft • Budget: $582,051 • • 412 programs offered in 2024 • 18,175 visitors in 2024 FTEs: 5.5 Lamar Senior Activity Center • 10,116 Sq ft • Budget: $529,595 • • 536 programs offered in 2024 • 18,234 visitors in 2024 FTEs: 5 South Austin Senior Activity Center • 13,041 Sq ft • Budget: $558,152 • • 482 programs offered in 2024 • 30,372 visitors in 2024 FTEs: 5 VARSITY GENERATION PROGRAMS: 4 Sites offering daily programming Monday – Friday 9:00am – 12:00pm: • Gus Garcia Recreation Center • Virginia Brown Recreation Center Turner Roberts Recreation Center • • Mendez Recreation Center • Dittmar Recreation Center • George Morales Dove Springs Recreation Center Sites offering weekly programming with varied days and times: • Dolores Duffie Recreation Center • Cantu Pan Am Recreation Center • Montopolis Recreation Center • South Austin Recreation Center • Hancock Recreation Center CONGREGATE MEAL PROGRAM - 62,627 meals served in FY24 - Budget: $367,134 - Partnership with Capital Area Council of Governments & Meals on Wheels of Central Texas - 9 City Locations: Gus Garcia Recreation Center Asian American Resource Center Virginia Brown Recreation Center Alamo Recreation Center Conley Guerrero Senior Activity Center Mendez Recreation Center Durwood Neighborhood Center South Austin Senior Activity Center George Morales Dove Springs Recreation Center 5 RESOURCES & SERVICES OFFERED AT OUR SITES Food Resources • • Health / Exercise Resources • Social Lifestyle Programs • Creative Arts • Safety and emergency preparedness Technology • Community connections • • Continuing Education • Special Events Excursions • 6 HEALTHY/ EXERCISE RESOURCES Programs: Line Dancing • • Golden Rollers • Walk and Talk • • Senior Gardening Golden Rollers by Gishiallo • Gentle Morning Yoga • • Tai Chi Stretch and Strength • Water Aerobics Open Play Pickle Ball • Billiards • Ping Pong • • Card …
City of Austin Parks & Recreation Department Security Audit Parks and Recreation Board Meeting June 23, 2025 Roles and Responsibility Austin Parks Foundation City of Austin Parks & Recreation Arup US, Inc. Sponsor Review Owner Consultant Review, Site Support, and Stakeholder Engagement Security Audit and Lighting Assessment, Recommendations Development Contents • Overview & Approach • Audit Key Findings • Key Recommendations Overview & Approach Audit Phases Phase 1: Kick-off & Work Plan Identify available and relevant data. Initiate the transfer of data. Develop work plan with timeline. Phase 2: Research & Site Visits Conduct desktop research and interviews. Carry out site visits at 30 locations over a two-week period. Data processing and analysis. Phase 3: Security Assessment Tool & Recommendations Development Develop security assessment framework and tool concept. Draft security recommendations with estimated costs. Phase 4: Final Report & Recommendations Finalize security recommendations and assessment tool. Presentation of findings to the PARD Board. Overview & Approach Audit Objectives and Information Collected Primary objectives of the audit includes: • Document existing physical and operational security measures • Conduct a CPTED and lighting technical assessment • Collect observations of operational or physical vulnerabilities Physical security and Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) assessments were conducted during both the day and nighttime. Security audit collections plan. 30 Sites Surveyed Overview & Approach Stakeholder Interviews and Survey Interview Date Interview Group PARD Teams December 2, 2024 Parkland Operations December 3, 2024 Safety / Security Technical Support, Contracts, Communication December 6, 2024 Facilities Programs Facilities Operations December 6, 2024 PARD Leadership North Team, South Team, Horticulture, Land Management, Forestry, Community Gardens, Historic Sites/Signage Safety Team, Park Rangers, Austin Police Department, Communications & Engagement Unit (CEU), Contracts Team Community Recreation, Cultural Centers, Nature Programs, Aquatics, Centralized Programs, Building Services, Aquatics Maintenance, Golf / Cemeteries, Athletics Maintenance, Facilities Management Interim Director, Chief Financial Officer, Programs, Planning, Capital Improvement Projects (CIP), Assets, Facilities, Operations and Maintenance, Cemeteries, Golf, Special Events, Aquatics Stakeholder interviews were conducted to understand safety and security experiences unique to different PARD teams. Digital survey links were also sent to PARD stakeholders to collect feedback. Good Parks! Other Parks! Audit Key Findings Safety and Security Environment – APD Reported Crime Data • Approximately 80% of reported property crimes in and around parks are either larceny or motor vehicle theft. • Crimes against society account for the second most reported incidents. Disorderly conduct account for almost …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20250623-003 Date: June 23, 2025 Subject: Zilker Café Concession Contract Motioned By: Kathryn Flowers Seconded By: Pedro Villalobos Recommendation The Parks and Recreation Board recommends to Austin City Council to authorize the negotiation and execution of a contract with Legacy Hospitality and Entertainment Group LLC for the operation and management of the Zilker Café to maintain the food and beverage concession at Zilker Park. Vote: The motion to approve a recommendation to Austin City Council to authorize the negotiation and execution of a contract with Legacy Hospitality and Entertainment Group LLC for the operation and management of the Zilker Café to maintain the food and beverage concession at Zilker Park was approved on Vice Chair Flowers motion, Board Member Villalobos’ second on a 6-1 vote. Those voting aye were: Vice Chair Flowers, Board Members, Franklin, Kearns-Osterweil, Orme, Taylor, Villalobos. Those voting nay were: Board Member Eubanks. Chair Bazan, Board Members Abou-Emara, Becker and Merritt absent. For: Kathryn Flowers, Jennifer Franklin, Diane Kearns-Osterweil, Shelby Orme, Kim Taylor, Pedro Villalobos. Against: Ted Eubanks. Abstain: None. Absent: Luai Abou-Emara, Stephanie Bazan, Lane Becker, Nicole Merritt. Attest: Tim Dombeck, Board and Council Liaison, Parks and Recreation Department.
Park Data Sources TPL 2025 ParkScore Texas Parks and Wildlife Department SCORP Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account, U.S. and States, 2023 (BEA) 2024 Outdoor Participation Trends Report - Outdoor Foundation The National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, & Wildlife-Associated Recreation (USFWS) NPS Visitor Use Statistics National Recreation and Parks Association National Survey of Recreation and the Environment (NSRE) TPL ParkScore Methodology Austin Rankings
REGULAR MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MAY 19, 2025 – 6:00 PM PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1407 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TX 78752 Some members of the Parks and Recreation Board may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. For remote participation, registration must be completed no later than noon the day before the meeting. To register to speak, click here: https://forms.office.com/g/3UtQYxPm15 or call or email Tim Dombeck, (512) 974- 6716, Tim.Dombeck@austintexas.gov. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and may be allowed up to three (3) minutes to provide their comments. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Stephanie Bazan (D-5), Chair Kathryn Flowers (D-4), Vice Chair Shelby Orme (D-1) Pedro Villalobos (D-2) CALL TO ORDER 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) 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 April 28, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for the PARD Nature Play program. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) (PARD Long Range Strategies: Park Access for All, Urban Public Spaces). Presenter(s): Christine Chute Canul, Partnership Coordinator, Melody Alcazar, Program Manager, Lindsey Machamer, Project Management Supervisor, Parks and Recreation Department. Presentation, discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council that the Lakeshore PUD Amendment Development application is superior with respect to parkland dedication. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) (PARD Long Range Strategies: Relief from Urban Life, Park Access for All). Presenter(s): Robynne Heymans, Principal Planner, Parks and Recreation Department. Presentation, discussion and approve a recommendation to Austin City Council that the 500 S Congress PUD Development application is superior with respect to parkland dedication. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) (PARD Long Range Strategies: Relief from Urban Life, Park Access for All). Presenter(s): Robynne Heymans, Principal Planner, Parks and Recreation Department. Page 1 of 2 5. 6. Discussion and approve an appointment to the vacant seat on the Parks and Recreation Board Contracts and Concession Committee. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) Discussion and approve a nomination to the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board. (Sponsors: Bazan, Flowers) DISCUSSION …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES APRIL 28, 2025 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES APRIL 28, 2025 The PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD convened in a REGULAR meeting on April 28, 2025 at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas Chair Villalobos called the PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Meeting to order at 6:11 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Luai Abou-Emara, Stephanie Bazan, Kathryn Flowers, Diane Kearns- Osterweil, Nicole Merritt, Holly Reed, Pedro Villalobos. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Lane Becker, Jennifer Franklin, Shelby Orme, Kim Taylor. Board Members Absent: None. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Nicole Netherton - Pease Park Conservancy Dayna Williams - Austin Rowing Club Scott Cobb - Lifeguard issues Chris Flores - Thanks to Holly Reed for her service to the Parks and Recreation Board Kayla Reese - Austin Parks Foundation APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of March 24, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of March 24, 2025 was approved on Chair Villalobos’ motion, Vice Chair Flowers’ second on an 11-0 vote. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Presentation, discussion and approve letters of support for PARD Staff working behind the scenes in the Support Services Division to maintain excellent administrative services across a large, diverse department. David Hillers, Financial Services Division Manager and Ben Rustenhaven, Business Process Consultant, Parks and Recreation Department gave a presentation and answered questions on the evaluation of KPIs. The motion to approve letters of support for PARD Staff working behind the scenes in the Support Services Division to maintain excellent administrative services across a large, diverse 1 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES APRIL 28, 2025 department was approved on Chair Villalobos’ motion, Board Member Merritt’s second on an 11-0 vote. 3. Conduct officer elections for Chair and Vice Chair of the Parks and Recreation Board. The motion to elect Stephanie Bazan to the officer position of Chair of the Parks and Recreation Board was approved on Chair Villalobos’ motion, Board Member Becker’s second on a 10-0 vote. Board Member Reed abstaining. The motion to elect Kathryn Flowers to the officer position of Vice Chair of the Parks and Recreation Board was approved on Board Member Becker’s motion, Board Member Franklin’s second on 9-0 vote. Board Member Reed and Taylor abstaining. STAFF BRIEFINGS 4. Staff briefing on Parks and Recreation Department community engagement …
Austin Parks and Recreation Presentation Lakeshore Planned Unit Development Amendment May 19, 2025 Robynne Heymans, Principal Planner Development Overview Existing Use: Office campus, residential Proposed Use: Mixed-use Activity Center with office, residential and hotel uses at Lakeshore Drive and Tinnin Ford Road PROJECT LOCATION 2 Development Overview Additional 2.336 acres Original 50.1 acres Original 2006 PUD restricted parkland dedication to $650/ residential unit for the original 50.1 acres. Currently features office campus and residential. Amendment in review adds a 2.336 acre tract, increases allowable height and modifies internal roads from grid pattern to match existing roads. 40’ to 120’ 60’ to 90’ 60’ to 90’ 60’ to 90’ 60’ to 90’ 60’ to 120’ 3 Amendment Details A 4 Parks and Open Space Plan The 2.336 acre tract is subject to the parkland dedication requirements in effect at the time of site development application. 100% Fees-in-lieu shall be required. Additionally: Applicant shall construct a 12’ trail along Willow Creek to accommodate additional proposed density. PARD currently supports this Planned Unit Development for superiority with respect to parkland dedication. 5 Parks and Recreation Board Consideration Approve a recommendation to Austin City Council that the Lakeshore PUD Amendment Development application is superior with respect to parkland dedication. 6
Austin Parks and Recreation Presentation 500 South Congress Planned Unit Development May 19, 2025 Robynne Heymans, Principal Planner Development Overview Existing Use: Multifamily 60 ft Proposed Use: Mixed-use Multifamily, Hotel, Office and Retail Max heights 650 ft and 500 ft PROJECT LOCATION 2 Development Overview PUD is 6.48 acres located at the intersection of W Riverside Dr and S Congress Ave Proposing 950 residential units, 225 hotel keys, 600,000 sq ft office and 155,000 sq ft retail, paseos and retail plazas OTC Fronting W Bouldin Creek in the South Central Waterfront District Adjacent to OTC and across the creek from the School for the Deaf W Riverside S Congress 3 South Central Waterfront Plans W Bouldin Creek Trail 4 Parks and Open Space Plan North South Connection: Connect east/west trail to Haywood ROW utilizing OTC property East West Connection: Connect OTC to S Congress ROW with 12’ wide trail in the outer half of the CWQZ Open Space: Dedicating 10% more open space than 20% Tier 2 requirement PARD currently supports this Planned Unit Development for superiority with respect to parkland dedication 5 Parks and Recreation Board Consideration Approve a recommendation to Austin City Council that the 500 S Congress PUD Development application is superior with respect to parkland dedication. 6
Austin Parks and Recreation Presentation Alternative Park Funding Preliminary Analysis May 19, 2025 Alyssa Tharrett, RA, NCARB, Project Management Supervisor Lauren Gaetano, Project Assistant Liana Kallivoka, PhD, PE, LEED Fellow, Assistant Director OUR CONSULTANTS Trust for Public Land (TPL) • Sam Savin, Associate Director • National nonprofit that works to connect everyone to the benefits and joys of the outdoors • Conservation Finance program that serves as a trusted advisor to design, pass, and implement ballot and legislative measures to fund parks PFM Group Consulting (PFM) • Danielle Scott Parker, Director • Public Finance consultants that support local government leaders and staff in analysis of budget, finances, and operations • Existing City consultant for Financial Services Department • Specialize in consulting for alternative funding to achieve a public benefit COUNCIL RESOLUTION Resolution No. 20241121-072 Directs the City Manager to assemble a team from key City departments (PARD, Financial Services, Law, and others) with assistance of external consultants to explore additional funding sources for parks management, land acquisition, amenities, facilities, and maintenance. Timeline Resolution Launched Progress Report to Council November 21 2024 March 31 2025 Report to Council w/ Recommendation May 31 2025 Previous Studies Project Phases Phase 1: Benchmarking of comparable Park and Recreation Departments Phase 2: Revenue, economic benefit, and landscape analysis Phase 3: Recommendations • PARD internal study in 2019 • Former Parks Board Vice Chair Rich DePalma presented research on Park Districts to the Parks Board Financial Committee in 2021 • Parks Board drafted Recommendation Number: 20211130-B4: Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) Use Recommendations in November 2021 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Survey open from March 11 to April 11 Shared via website, with City Council Offices, through partnership newsletters, flyers posted at recreation centers, tabling at programming events, neighborhood newsletters … Full Survey Results 3,559 VIEWS 682 PARTICPANTS 17,303 RESPONSES 821 COMMENTS Two Small Group Discussions, April 22 and 24 15 total attendees https://publicinput.com/Report/ekt551dmm5i Survey Results: Do you support more funding for Austin parks, pools, and facilities? 3% 6% Yes No Unsure 91% Should Austin Parks and Recreation get more money? Are parks a good investment? https://publicinput.com/Report/ekt551dmm5i Economic Benefits of Parks Enhanced Property Values Boosts Tourism Reduces Healthcare Costs Property values can decrease for every foot further from parkland it’s located. Town Lake Metro Park and Zilker Metro Park are two of the Top 10 Most Visited Locations in Austin. Residents who use parks and trails for physical activity save …
Austin Parks and Recreation Department Nature Play Program Cities Connecting Children to Nature Initiative Presented by Christine Chute Canul, Partnership Manager, Park Planning Division Lindsey Machamer, Project Management Supervisor, Park Development Division Melody Alcazar, Cities Connecting Children to Nature Manager, Park Planning Division Nature Play in Parks & Recreation Dept. Nature Play in Parks & Recreation Dept. Nature Play Vision: building a world where all children can explore nature through play Connections to City Priorities: • Heat Resiliency Playbook (OCAR) • Climate Equity Plan (OCAR) • • • Green Building Program (Austin Energy) Sustainability & Resilience Program (PARD) Long Range Plan (PARD) Nature Play | Timeline 2016 June 224 2018 Cities Connecting Children to Nature Austin is formed Nature Play becomes priority strategy 2019 Debut loose parts lending kit library 2021 2022 2024 1st large installation at Walnut Creek Metro Park Nature Play Guidelines created Established nature play materials yard at Trevino Metro Park Site Examples LARGE: Walnut Creek Metro Park • • Grant + CIP funded • Partner activated Pilot features, perm. signage MEDIUM: Kendra Page Neighborhood Park • • • Community initiated, signage APF grant funded PARD activated SMALL: Ron Rigsby Pocket Park ▪ ▪ ▪ Community initiated PARD funded Community activation Materials Procurement • Pilot Project: Old Lampasas Dam modernization • Materials received: 277 trees, 972 cubic yards of boulders • Other donations: Austin Airport Million Air Terminal expansion, TxDOT I-35 expansion along Lady Bird Lake Training + Staff Development Staff, Partner, Agency, and Contractor Training • Bi-annual nature play design, installation, and maintenance training • Annual chainsaw skills and safety training Staff Collaboration: Facility Construction + Community PARKnerships + Playgrounds Partners + Stewardship Partner support • Install and maintain nature play on partner-managed park sites • Support with training costs • Support concept planning with community-requested nature play spaces Community Requests • Commonly requested amenity via Community Activated Park Project proposals & Vision Planning Current Status • Total nature play installs on parkland to-date: 23 • Installations planned for rest of calendar year 2025: 8 • Nature Play Materials Yard: over 15 partners served, including AISD and early childhood centers • Loose parts lending kits: over 4,000 community members served Questions Melody Alcazar, Cities Connecting Children to Nature Manager, Park Planning melody.alcazar@austintexas.gov
AUSTIN PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR’S UPDATE May 19, 2025 Welcome to AUSTIN PARKS & RECREATION VISION The Parks and Recreation Department will be an innovative leader in parks and recreation experiences. MISSION Inspire Austin to learn, play, protect and connect by creating diverse programs and experiences in sustainable natural spaces and public places. Ensure Parkland Offers Relief from Urban Life Park Planning and Development Upcoming Project Completions • Colony Park Pool Ribbon Cutting: May 24, 10AM • Givens Pool Ribbon Cutting: May 30, 10AM • Parque Zaragoza Bathhouse Anticipated Completion: June 20 • Little Walnut Creek Greenbelt Improvements Target Completion: Early June • Scenic Brook Pocket Park Target Completion: Early June Park Planning and Development New Shade Structure Installations • Kennemer Pool Shade Complete May 2025 • Dove Springs Pool Shade Complete May 2025 • Givens Pool Shade Complete May 2025 • Agave Playground Shade Structure Complete March 2025 • Metz Playground Replacement Complete June 2025 Natural Resources Program Internal Circulator and Parking at Zilker Zilker Loop • Free internal circulator managed by the Nature and Science Center Weekends and holidays from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 15 to 20-minute intervals from May 24 through September 1 Parking validation at Stratford Gravel Lot for 2 hours available through the Park ATX APP Parking at Polo Field • Available on Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays through September 1 at 50% capacity (weather permitting) Parking capacity will be reduced to 30%, once parking at the Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse reopens • Exploring how to maintain parking capacity at 50% during special events Recreation Services Summer Staff Training Annual summer camp preparation training has arrived, covering a wide variety of safety topics, updates to handbooks, youth development, and CPR/First Aid and Basic Water Safety courses. Totally Cool Totally Art Show The end of year showcase and celebration held at the Dougherty Arts Center on May 12th featuring amazing artwork created by teens throughout the year. Adaptive Field Day May 2nd at Parque Zaragoza Recreation Center brought together 250 youth and adults from Austin ISD for a variety of inclusive games, activities and talent show! APD Cadet Disability Awareness Hands on activities at the Adaptive Field Day provided 70 APD cadets the opportunity to engage with youth and adults with disabilities. The cadets also attended a training session led by the TR - Modifications & Support team. Community Recreation VARSITY GENERATION South Austin Senior …
