Off-Leash Dogs Working Group Summary Working Group Members Animal Advisory Commission • Craig Nazor • Jo Anne Norton Parks and Recreation Board • Dawn Lewis • Nancy Mohn Barnard City of Austin Staff Kimberly McNeeley, Director, Parks and Recreation Don Bland, Director, Austin Animal Center Jason Garza, Assistant Director, AAC Mark Sloat, Manager, Animal Protection, AAC Kelsey Cler, Communications Manager, AAC Belinda Hare, Executive Assistant, AAC Citizens’ Concerns SOURCES: NextDoor, emails, conversations about off-leash dogs in on-leash areas and neighborhoods • Chase bikes potentially causing accidents • Run up to strollers or citizens with walking aides • Poop not scooped • Not enough tickets written for violators • Dogs run up to random adults and children • Dog owners are not trained to break up dog fights Issues Considered by the Working Group • Misinformation about existing laws • New Austinites may not know about existing laws • Off-leash dogs on parkland that is on-leash only – Citizens cannot safely enjoy City parkland • Citizen ability to request an official off-leash area – Austin growth outpacing off-leash areas • Options for citizens to report issues • Enforcement of all Leash Codes Laws - Austin City Code Title 3 • Keep dogs on a leash and under control in all areas that are not designated as “off-leash” • Pick up and sanitarily dispose of pet waste left on public or private property • Provide adequate shelter • Ensure pets have current rabies vaccinations • Confine pets transported in unenclosed vehicles in a manner that prevents the animal from falling or jumping from the vehicle or being injured • DO NOT leave a pet alone on a chain or tether • It’s unlawful to sell a puppy or kitten that is not spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped Enforcement Affected by Staffing • 21 Animal Protection Officers – 7 days a week, 7a-Midnight - Service 900 Sq Miles of Travis County – Handle a multitude of animal related issues – Can write tickets for off-leash dog violations • Tickets are $217 - can be increased by a judge to $500 or dismissed entirely • 25 Park Rangers – 7 days a week - Service 330 City Parks - 19,000 acres of parkland – Handle a multitude of parkland related issues – Cannot write tickets for off-leash dog violations Solutions Discussed Enforcement capabilities limited. Alternative solutions considered: • Education campaign (Speakers Bureau, Focus groups) • …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD DIRECTOR’S REPORT DATE: May 2022 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT EVENTS: Montopolis Community Pool Renovation and Beverly S Sheffield Northwest District Park Pool Renovation: The pool renovation projects at Montopolis Neighborhood Park and Beverly S Sheffield Northwest District Park are entering the community engagement phase. At both locations, the Department will host community events during the summer pool season to gather feedback on the proposed improvements. The meeting dates are anticipated for mid-June and are pending final approval. An online community survey is available on the project websites (Montopolis Pool Project | AustinTexas.gov and Beverly S. Sheffield Northwest Aquatic Facility Renovation | AustinTexas.gov) to gather data on community priorities for the renovation. The online survey closes on May 23. Districts 3 and 7 Downs Field Grandstands Dedication: To celebrate the completion of the historic Downs Field Grandstands Renovation, the Department has scheduled a dedication event on June 10, 2022. The date is still pending final confirmation from Huston-Tillotson University. The 1947 Downs Field Grandstands and field are a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark. District 1 Volma Overton Sr. Beach Dedication Ceremony: On June 11, the Department will hold a ceremony to officially dedicate Volma Overton Sr. Beach at Town Lake Metropolitan Park. Formally known as Lamar Beach, the park was formally renamed by Austin City Council in early 2022. Volma Overton Sr. (1924-2005) was a highly significant and influential Austin leader. A World War II veteran and graduate of Huston-Tillotson University, Overton served as president of the Austin NAACP from 1963- 1983, during which time he participated in the March on Washington in 1963 and the Selma to Montgomery March in 1965. He received the Arthur B. DeWitty award in 1967 and many other awards for his service. He was also honored for his contribution to Civil Rights by the LBJ School of Public Affairs on March 25, 2004. District 9 Volma Overton Sr. photo courtesy of George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Center 1 PLANNING UPDATES: Zilker Metropolitan Park Vision Plan: The Parks and Recreation Department (Department) and the consultant team continue to compile and analyze the input received on the plan's three draft concepts via survey data, comments, small group discussions, and pop-up events. The last month included discussions with the Boys & Girls Club of Austin, the Housing Authority of the City of Austin's I-MOM Program, The Rise School of Austin (all abilities/inclusive preschool), as well …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MAY 23, 2022 MINUTES The Parks and Recreation Board convened in a regular meeting on Monday, May 23, 2022, at 301 W. Second Street, Austin Texas Chair Cottam Sajbel called the meeting to order at 6:02 PM Board Members in Attendance: Laura Cottam Sajbel, Dawn Lewis, Richard DePalma, Nina Rinaldi (arrives 6:11 PM), Anna Di Carlo, Patrick Moore, Lisa Hugman. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Sarah Faust (left at 8:20 PM), Nancy Barnard. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Laura Spraggins – Festival Beach Community Garden Claire Krebbs – Festival Beach Community Garden Lauren Loney - Festival Beach Community Garden Brian Cassidy – Bridges on the Park Condominium Association Scott Cobb – Barton Springs Lifeguard Malcom Yeatts – EROC Contact Team Sharon Blythe – Friends of Austin Memorial Park Zack Jurasek – Glow Row Kevin Renis – Austin Rowing Club Michael Cannatti – Barton Springs Conservancy Hoppy Goddin - Bridges on the Park Condominium Association Aubrea Rudder – Austin Rowing Club A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Board Member Moore made a motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board Regular Meeting of April 25, 2022. Board Member Hugman seconded the motion. The motion passed on a vote of 9-0 with Board Member Taylor absent and one vacancy. B. NEW BUSINESS: PRESENTATION, DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS 1. Presentation, discussion and possible action regarding the City of Austin’s food plan development process. Edwin Marty, Food Policy Manager, City of Austin Office of Sustainability gave a presentation and answered questions. No action was taken on this item. Page 1 of 3 2. Briefing on the terms of the Park Operations and Maintenance Agreement with The Trail Foundation for portions of the Town Lake Metropolitan Park. Christine Chute Canul, Program Manager II, Parks and Recreation Department and Heidi Anderson, CEO, The Trail Foundation gave a briefing and answered questions. 3. Briefing on the progress of the draft Commercial Parkland Dedication Ordinance and associated community feedback and resources. Robynne Heymans, Planner Sr., Parks and Recreation Department gave a briefing and answered questions. 4. Presentation, discussion, and possible action regarding the recommendation to approve the conditional use permit (CUP) at Republic Square for the dale of alcohol. Reynaldo Hernandez, Project Manager, Parks and Recreation Department gave a presentation and answered questions. Board Member Barnard made a motion to postpone action on the Republic Square CUP until the June 2022 meeting of the …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD April 25, 2022 – 6:00pm City Hall Chambers, Room 1001 301 W. Second Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Parks and Recreation Board will be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by 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. To register call or email the board liaison at 512-974-6716 or Tim.Dombeck@austintexas.gov PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEMBERS: Dawn Lewis (D-10), Chair Richard DePalma (Mayor), Vice Chair Nina Rinaldi (D-1) Anna L. Di Carlo (D-2) Patrick Moore (D-3) Vacant (D-4) Sarah Faust (D-5) Lisa Hugman (D-6) AGENDA Nancy Barnard (D-7) Kim Taylor (D-8) Laura Cottam Sajbel (D-9) 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. A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of March 28, 2022. B. NEW BUSINESS: PRESENTATION, DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS 1. Presentation and discussion related to the community engagement and outreach efforts for Zilker metropolitan Park Vision Plan. (PARD Long Range Strategies – Urban Public Spaces, Operational Efficiency, Park Access for All; SD23 Outcomes – Health and Environment, Government that Works for All). Presenter(s): Gregory Montes, Program Manager, Parks and Recreation Department. Motion: Chair Lewis 2nd: Board Member Faust 2. Presentation, discussion and possible action on Zilker Park Re-Wilding plan. Presenter(s): Robin Rather, Vice President of Parks and Environment, and Gail Rothe, Zilker Neighborhood Association. Motion: Board Member Faust 2nd: Chair Lewis Page 1 of 2 3. Briefing on Dove Springs Health Facility. Presenter(s): Kymberly Maddox, Assistant Director for Administration, Austin Public Health. Motion: Board Member Di Carlo 2nd: Chair Lewis 4. Presentation, discussion and possible action regarding the Parks and Recreation Department community engagement process. (PARD Long Range Strategies – Urban Public Spaces, Park Access for All; SD23 Outcomes – Health & Environment, Culture & Lifelong Learning) Presenter(s): Suzanne Piper, Chief Administrative Officer and John Nixon, Communications & Engagement Manager, Parks and Recreation Department Motion: Board Member Faust 2nd: Chair Lewis 5. Briefing …
AUSTIN PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING APRIL 25, 2022 ZILKER PARK VISION PLAN Project Schedule COMMUNITY MEETING #1 INTRO TO THE PROJECT COMMUNITY MEETING #3 ALTERNATIVES PROJECT KICK-OFF FEB 1ST SMALL GROUP DISCUSSIONS POP-UP SERIES #1 POP-UP SERIES #2 FINAL DRAFT VISION PLAN REVIEW AND ADOPTION 2023 COMMUNITY MEETING #5 DRAFT PLAN AND IMPLEMENTATION LATE 2022 FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN 2 0 2 1 2022 TAG KICK-OFF MEETING COMMUNITY MEETING #2 PROGRAMMING COMMUNITY MEETING #4 PLAN CONCEPTS SMALL GROUP DISCUSSIONS COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT The Vision and Goals Vision A transparent and well-documented community engagement process, which engages the city, but also seeks and considers the input of interested persons and parties with direct involvement in park and/or parties that are impacted by the park. The engagement process shall include guiding values, direction, and feature a clear step-by-step process, which includes presentation of the vision plan process. Goals 1. Educate the community about Zilker Park’s history, current City of Austin programs, operations, and future City of Austin operational needs, and provide opportunities for comment. 6. Identify and engage with PARD Parkners and other organizations, concessionaires, and groups associated with park programming. 2. Gather community input, feedback, and stories to develop a plan for the future of Zilker Park that represents the diversity of Austin. 3. Identify and educate the community on environmental considerations and respond to those considerations throughout the project. 4. Utilize equity strategies to develop community connections with and engage traditionally underserved and marginalized communities in Austin. 5. Provide opportunities for engagement that are accessible to all abilities. 7. Connect with communities around interpretive storytelling and placemaking to identify key opportunities in the park. 8. Correct any misinformation about the vision for the park and acknowledge any concerns or challenges identified by community members. 9. Create an environment of excitement for the proposed Vision Plan and future park development. 10. Create community support for the proposed Vision Plan and future park development. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Technical Advisory Group Community Engagement Goals: 1, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 The Technical Advisory Group (TAG) was comprised of City of Austin representatives from various departments who provided technical expertise on different elements and concerns in and around Zilker Park. The members of the TAG ensured their department’s goals, policies, plans, and constraints were understood in relation to Zilker and communicated with …
To: City of Austin PARD, ZPVP Consultants, City Council and Community Members From: Zilker Neighborhood Association (ZNA) Parks + Environment Team including Members from Barton Hills NA, Bouldin Creek NA, Save Our Springs, Sierra Club and others. Date: March 31, 2022 Re: Feedback on the Zilker Vision Plan “3 Concepts” (PDF Posted by City/ February 15, 2022) DRAFT POSTED FOR COMMUNITY REVIEW AND DIALOG OVERVIEW The members of the ZNA Parks and Environment team has volunteered at least 315 man-hours since early 2021 focusing on attending meetings, offering ideas and analyzing various aspects of the Zilker Vision Plan. Why? Because we deeply love the park and also because we understand as the most adjacent neighborhoods and as leading environmental advocates, we have a responsibility to all the diverse neighborhoods and people in Austin to step up and help make sure the plan works for everyday residents who love it just as much as we do. After detailed review, we find that the 3 Concepts framework simply does not hold together as a coherent narrative. At our recent quarterly neighborhood meeting, nearly all those attending said the survey was confusing and frustrating. Thus, we have deconstructed the concepts into discrete ideas grouped by category for easier comprehension. We have also added alternative ideas where needed. We will update this document based on community dialog and as more details emerge. OVERALL VISION: REWILDING On March 23rd, 2022, Austin Neighborhoods Council, representing over 80 neighborhoods in every quadrant of Austin unanimously voted to endorse the Rewilding Plan we funded and made public as part of our engagement with this process. See https://www.atxanc.org/agenda- minutes-and-presentations and https://zilkerneighborhood.org/docs/zpmp/rewilding_zilker_park%20(Jan%202022).pdf Our vision is an inclusive, nature-based, recreational experience for the over one million annual visitors to the park and a showcase for climate, water quality and regenerative environmental stewardship. The 3 Concepts framework is based on a status quo mentality with a strong parking-centric focus. We agree that some parking is essential (the current legal 1,000 spaces) but do not believe that parking should form the driving basis for a long term “vision.” WE SUPPORT: We could potentially strongly support the following 5 ideas outlined in the 3 Concepts, at least in theory. Because few details have been given and literally no financial estimates exist, our support is at this stage merely conceptual and may change as details emerge. • Rehabilitation of the Barton Creek riparian zone within …
Dove Springs Public Health Facility 5811 Palo Blanco Lane 2018 Bond Project, Austin Public Health Project Design Update to Parks Board – April 25, 2022 Kymberley Maddox, Austin Public Health Kalpana Sutaria, Public Works SpawGlass, Design-Builder Background Multiple flood events have highlighted the lack of public health, basic needs, preventive health care, and employment support services in this neighborhood Austin Public Health (APH) has provided limited services to residents working in partnership with the George Morales Dove Springs Recreation Center This new facility was funded in the 2018 Bond Election to provide a full- service Neighborhood Public Health Facility The use of parkland adjoining the George Morales Dove Springs Recreation Center was approved by the Parks Board and City Council in September of 2019 Community Programs Full-Service Neighborhood Center Basic Needs Services (Food Pantry, Clothes Closet, application assistance) Public Health Nursing/Health Screening Social Work Services Seasonal services (Blue Santa, Thanksgiving Baskets) Women, Infants & Children Clinic (WIC) with counseling services Immunization Clinic Shots for Tots Big Shots High Quality Childcare Center to serve 75 children Multipurpose space and demonstration kitchen for nutrition classes Addition of lighting to the existing soccer fields for promotion of youth programs Construction of trails for connection of neighborhood to Dove Springs District Park trail system APH will manage the public health programs and solicit an operator to manage the high quality childcare center Community Involvement A Dove Springs Task Force (TF) was formed which represents various community groups and other community leaders in the Dove Springs area to assist with community communications (list on next slide) For Community feedback, we held 4 in-person meetings, 4 virtual meetings and 10 meetings with the Task Force A survey was done to receive community input on schematic design to share all aspects of project including the site plan layout, pathways connecting the neighborhood, exterior renderings, and look and feel of the facility The survey ran from December 15, 2020 to February 7, 2021 Public Information Office made extensive outreach efforts to promote the survey including post card mailing to 3,000 homes Project team presented at the Council Member Fuente’s D-2 event November 2021 at the George Morales Dove Springs Recreation Center Task Force Members Frances Acuna – GAVA, SE Combined Neighborhood Plan Contact …
Austin Parks and Recreation Department Community Engagement Update Parks and Recreation Board Meeting April 25, 2022 Outline • History of City of Austin Community Engagement (CE) • PARB Question: “How is Community Engagement data used by PARD in the planning process?” • Present CE Challenges • Questions 2 City History • Pre-2009: Community engagement varied per projects. • Most followed legal requirements (i.e. codified public hearings) • Some larger projects held community meetings. COA lacked standard practices for community engagement • 2009: Communications and Public Information Office (CPIO) hires first employee dedicated to community engagement though no specific title exists. • 2011: CPIO begins offering CE support to City Departments (with their one position). • 2010-Present: CPIO develops tools, standards, values and other operations pertaining to COA’s community engagement approach. Staff expands to only three (3) full-time positions. • January 2015: Austin City Council created Task Force on Community Engagement • June 2016: CPIO creates first community engagement job title, Community Engagement Specialist • September 2017: CPIO creates Community Engagement Consultant title • Present: CPIO operates with only 3 CE positions 3 Department History • 2017: PARD’s Marketing and Communication Unit (formerly Public Information and Marketing) changes name to Communications and Engagement Unit (CEU) to reflect shifting work focus. • 2017: CEU reclasses Public Information Specialist position into Community Engagement Specialist • 2017-2022: One FTEs dedicated to community engagement 4 PARB Question: “How is data used by PARD in the planning process?” • Information gathered from CE is aggregated and presented to project manager(s) and consultants or program/administrative initiative lead. • Project managers help interpret data and review consultants' interpretation and application of input and design choices. • Plans are presented to communities and refined in an iterative process. • Program/Administrative staff review input as part of decision-making process these decisions are reflected in administrative document revisions, program changes, and in some cases community processes (i.e., naming) • The Department continues to evaluate and evolve to ensure opportunities to improve consistency and transparency. 5 PARB Question: “How is data used by PARD in the planning process?” Community feedback on final plan Parks and Recreation Board City Council Surveys / community feedback during plan development Park Vision Plan Walter E. Long Metro Park Strong advocates for a golf course on the northeast part of the park associated with a public/private partnership Continued push to include the golf course to promote economic …
M E M O R A N D U M Parks and Recreation Board Members Kimberly A. McNeeley, M.Ed., CPRP, Director Austin Parks and Recreation Department April 21, 2022 Parks and Recreation Community Engagement Operations TO: FROM: DATE: SUBJECT: The purpose of this memorandum is to respond to recent questions regarding the Parks and Recreation Department’s (Department) community engagement practices and to provide information on the current state of operations for the Communications and Engagement Unit (CEU). CEU is receiving its highest ever volume of projects while the resources available to complete those projects has remained stagnant. Community engagement projects include code-initiated projects such as, naming/renaming park facilities requests, park planning and development projects, and programming projects with expected community impact or which are likely to receive interest from the community. CEU routinely navigates complex operational realities, such as cooperation with contracted community engagement consultants and an increased emphasis on equity, involving community members who have historically been excluded from public decision-making processes. Additionally, this memorandum seeks to inform you of the workflow which carries community input generated from the engagement process through to Department action or recommended actions. Recent Context The City of Austin’s current approach to community engagement began in January of 2015 when Austin City Council created the Task Force on Community Engagement to examine community engagement effectiveness, methods, and key themes, and develop recommendations to enhance community engagement in the City. Prior to that, community engagement work was handled by a variety of positions and the approach to community engagement varied significantly among departments. The recommendations released in 2016 led to the City of Austin becoming a member of the International Association of Public Participation as an anchor in best practices, developing the City of Austin Public Participation Principles to guide each department, and the creation of the Community Engagement Specialist City job title to implement the recommendations. The full set of recommendations can be viewed here: Task Force on Community Engagement Webpage. 1 of 4 The Department embraced community engagement by: creating its first Community Engagement Specialist position in 2017; • • developing community engagement practices that became standards throughout the City. The implementation of task force recommendations increased demand for community engagement activity, which quickly outpaced available staff resources. To address this, the Department prioritized funding requests for the CEU during subsequent budget planning cycles. In each case, General Fund constraints and other department …
Briefing on: Parkland Dedication Requirements for Commercial Developments Parks and Recreation Board April 25, 2022 Paul Books, Planner III; Robynne Heymans, Planner Senior; Thomas Rowlinson, Principal Planner Randy Scott, Program Manager Austin Parks and Recreation Department Context - Chronology • On February 25, 2020, the Parks and Recreation Board passed Recommendation 20200225-B3, which included the provision that commercial developments be subject to parkland dedication requirements. February 2020 • On March 28, 2022, The Parks and Recreation Board reaffirmed its support to require parkland dedication for office, industrial, and commercial developments in Recommendation 20220328-B5. March 2022 • On April 7, 2022, City Council passed Resolution 20220407-042 directing City Staff to require parkland dedication for office, industrial and commercial developments. April 2022 Overview • Parkland dedication substantially advances a public interest in promoting the health, safety, and general welfare of Austinites. • The need for parkland is supported by the City Charter, the Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan, the PARD Long Range Plan, and Council Resolution 20091119-068 (establishing that parks be within walking distance of all Austinites). • Creating a new parkland dedication ordinance for office, retail, and industrial developments would better reflect the impacts of new development to the City's parks system. It would create opportunities for greenbelt and trail connections that are lost under today's requirements, and better serve Austin's growing workforce with recreational opportunities. 3 Applicability – Essential Nexus • Regulation must be related "both in nature and extent to the impact of a proposed development" (essential nexus, established in U.S. Supreme Court decision Nollan v. California Coastal Commission, 1987) • Growth in the commercial sector leads to increases in the City’s overall population and workforce, both users of the City’s parks system. • The National Recreation and Park Association has documented the role parks play in company locations and workforce growth. • By including commercial development into parkland dedication, the City would be able to better provide proportionate recreation services to the workforce near their places of employment. 4 Applicability – Rough Proportionality • Parkland level of service must • The estimated workforce occupying a account for the impact the workforce has on parks. The additional workforce that enters Austin affects the level of service goal. To maintain a consistent amount of parkland for Austin's 'service population' (residents + commuter workforce) new developments would need to provide 6.8 acres of new parkland per 1,000 people. new development thus sets …
Study of Parkland Dedication Requirements for Commercial Uses DRAFT April 25, 2022 Prepared by: Austin Parks and Recreation Department Mission: Inspire Austin to learn, play, protect and connect by creating diverse programs and experiences in sustainable natural spaces and public places --Study of Parkland Dedication Requirements for Commercial Uses-- This Study provides an overview of parkland dedication as it pertains to retail, industrial, and office uses, as directed by City Council in Resolution No. 20220407-042, passed unanimously on April 7, 2022. This Study, produced by the Parks and Recreation Department, outlines the applicability of creating a new Ordinance to require Parkland Dedication for commercial developments, and outlines the methodology behind such an Ordinance. This Study may be used as the basis for creating a Parkland Dedication Commercial Ordinance, for review and approval by City Council after a public and stakeholder engagement process. Purpose Parkland is an essential city service that affords well documented economic, recreational, physical, and mental health benefits to its users. The current Parkland Dedication Ordinance is a critical tool that allows the Parks and Recreation Department (The Department) to provide park service for the people of Austin in accordance with goals and mandates set forth in the City Charter, City Council Resolution 20091119-068, Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan, and the PARD Long Range Plan. Parks provide recreational opportunities, create community, preserve the city’s character and natural resources, contribute to economic growth and tourism, increase transportation opportunities, and keep Austin beautiful. Parkland dedication requires new developments to adhere to the Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan’s key goal of “Preserving Livability” by providing sufficient ample parkland in a rapidly densifying urban center and growing metropolitan area. On February 25, 2020, the Parks and Recreation Board passed Recommendation 20200225-B3, which included the provision that commercial developments be subject to parkland dedication requirements. On March 28, 2022, the Parks and Recreation Board reaffirmed its support to require parkland dedication for office, retail, and industrial developments in Recommendation 20220328-B5. Enacting this provision would better provide parkland to Austin’s growing workforce; currently, 58% of the workforce1 commutes from outside the city limits, and as such is not served by the existing Parkland Dedication Ordinance for residential and hotel/motel developments. Parkland dedication is paramount to fulfilling City Council Resolution 20091119-068, which establishes the goal that all residents be within walking distance of a park. This goal is defined by a park service area of ¼ mile …
RESOLUTION NO. 20220407-042 WHEREAS, the City Charter, Article V stresses the importance o f the provision o f parks and recreational facilities; and WHEREAS, provision of adequate parks and recreation facilities plays a major role in achieving the six key City goals established in the Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan: 1) Preserving Livability; 2) Expanding Transportation Choices; 3) Tackling the Ethnic Divide; 4) Protecting our Natural Resources; 5) Promoting Prosperity for All; and 6) Collaborating Regionally; and WHEREAS, parks provide recreational opportunities, create community, preserve the City , opportunities, and keep Austin beautiful; and s character and natural resources, increase transportation WHEREAS, park trails and greenbelts expand multi-modal access to transportation across the city; and WHEREAS, parkland provides relief from urban life, green space to those who do not have access to a yard, opportunities to gather and recreate, and numerous physical and mental health benefits; and WHEREAS, inve?ting in parkland in historically underserved areasis investing in the physical and mental wellbeing of those residents; and WHEREAS, Austinites have a strong connection to nature and consider the trails, greenways and parks 'a core part ofwhat makes Austin special'; and WHEREAS, Austin's parks help Austin attract high-tech industries, creative professionals, and local entrepreneurs alike; and Page 1 of 7 WHEREAS, parks are key to addressing regional challenges such as transportation, water resources, growth and development, climate change, environmental protection and economic prosperity; and WHEREAS, the St. David's Healthy Parks Plan for Travis, Bastrop and Caldwell counties confirms that parks are essential to public health for the Central Texas region and provides recommendations for expanding park service; and WHEREAS, the Parkland Dedication Ordinance helps the Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) provide critical park service to the people of Austin in accordance with goals and mandates set forth in the City Charter, Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan, the PARD Long Range Plan, and various Council resolutions; and WHEREAS, the City passed its first Parkland Dedication Ordinance in 1985, updated it in 2007 and again in 2016; and WHEREAS, in 1984, the Texas Supreme Court ruled parkland dedication to be constitutionally legal and regulating laws stipulate that parkland dedication requirements imposed on a developer should be "roughly proportional" to the increased demands of the proposed development on a city's park system; and WHEREAS, parkland dec?ication helps PARD to comply with Resolution ? No. 20091119-068 to provide parks within a walking distance of all of the people …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD DIRECTOR’S REPORT DATE: April 2022 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT EVENTS: Zilker Metropolitan Park Vision Plan: With the close of Community Survey #5 on April 10, the Parks and Recreation Department (Department) and the consultant team are working to compile and analyze the input received on the plan's three draft concepts via survey data, comments, small group discussions, and pop-up events. This included engagement with resident councils of the Housing Authority of the City of Austin (HACA), Black Women Who Kayak, Coalition of Texans with Disabilities, and Zilker Park Collective Impact Working Group to name a few, as well as pop-ups at the Kite Festival and several Department Recreation Centers. The team met to discuss the plan concepts with the District 5 Council Office and will soon meet with the District 8 Council Office. Department outreach efforts to increase representation in all districts and to engage in conversations centered on equity and inclusion will continue, including further engagement with HACA, the Boys & Girls Club, and Austin Area Urban League. More information including the draft concepts and survey may be found on the project website at https://www.austintexas.gov/ZilkerVision Districts 5 and 8 Ridgeline Neighborhood Park: Virtual Community Engagement Meeting #2 took place on April 21, 2022, at 5:30 PM. The project team reviewed survey responses from Meeting #1 and presented an illustrative concept plan to the public. Staff had additional survey questions to engage the public on specific preferences for play equipment and amenities. The goal of this project is to provide visible and safe access to the park and install amenities that work within environmental constraints. The current lack of a street sidewalk and safe access to the park inhibits having an on-site outreach event. This project is funded through Parkland Dedication fees. https://www.austintexas.gov/RidgelinePark District 6 Current conditions at Ridgeline Neighborhood Park 1 Dougherty Arts Center Replacement Virtual Community Meeting: The DAC Replacement online event will be held on Monday, April 25 at 7 p.m. The project team will share the current status of the facility design and information on the Art in Public Places (AIPP) opportunities that will be made available through this bond-funded project. Virtual Community Meeting Monday, April 25, 7 p.m. Registration Link Facebook Livestream District 9 Pan Am Park Renaming Virtual and In-Person Community Meeting: On February 17, 2022, a complete application to rename Pan American Neighborhood Park was received, proposing to rename the park …
AUSTIN PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING APRIL 25, 2022 ZILKER PARK VISION PLAN Project Schedule COMMUNITY MEETING #1 INTRO TO THE PROJECT COMMUNITY MEETING #3 ALTERNATIVES PROJECT KICK-OFF FEB 1ST SMALL GROUP DISCUSSIONS POP-UP SERIES #1 POP-UP SERIES #2 FINAL DRAFT VISION PLAN REVIEW AND ADOPTION 2023 COMMUNITY MEETING #5 DRAFT PLAN AND IMPLEMENTATION LATE 2022 FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN 2 0 2 1 2022 TAG KICK-OFF MEETING COMMUNITY MEETING #2 PROGRAMMING COMMUNITY MEETING #4 PLAN CONCEPTS SMALL GROUP DISCUSSIONS COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT The Vision and Goals Vision A transparent and well-documented community engagement process, which engages the city, but also seeks and considers the input of interested persons and parties with direct involvement in park and/or parties that are impacted by the park. The engagement process shall include guiding values, direction, and feature a clear step-by-step process, which includes presentation of the vision plan process. Goals 1. Educate the community about Zilker Park’s history, current City of Austin programs, operations, and future City of Austin operational needs, and provide opportunities for comment. 6. Identify and engage with PARD Parkners and other organizations, concessionaires, and groups associated with park programming. 2. Gather community input, feedback, and stories to develop a plan for the future of Zilker Park that represents the diversity of Austin. 3. Identify and educate the community on environmental considerations and respond to those considerations throughout the project. 4. Utilize equity strategies to develop community connections with and engage traditionally underserved and marginalized communities in Austin. 5. Provide opportunities for engagement that are accessible to all abilities. 7. Connect with communities around interpretive storytelling and placemaking to identify key opportunities in the park. 8. Correct any misinformation about the vision for the park and acknowledge any concerns or challenges identified by community members. 9. Create an environment of excitement for the proposed Vision Plan and future park development. 10. Create community support for the proposed Vision Plan and future park development. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Technical Advisory Group Community Engagement Goals: 1, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 The Technical Advisory Group (TAG) was comprised of City of Austin representatives from various departments who provided technical expertise on different elements and concerns in and around Zilker Park. The members of the TAG ensured their department’s goals, policies, plans, and constraints were understood in relation to Zilker and communicated with …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD March 28, 2022 MINUTES The Parks and Recreation Board Convened in a regular meeting on Monday, March 28, 2022, at 301 W. Second Street, Austin Texas. Chair Lewis called the meeting to order at 6:05 PM Board Members in Attendance: Dawn Lewis, Richard DePalma, Nina Rinaldi, Patrick Moore, Sarah Faust, Lisa Hugman, Nancy Barnard, Lisa Hugman and Laura Cottam Sajbel Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Kim Taylor, Anna Di Carlo (joined at 8:13 PM) Staff in Attendance: Kimberly McNeeley, Liana Kallikova, Suzanne Piper, Lucas Massie, Laura Esparza, Vanorda Richardson, Nicholas Johnson, Ed Morris. A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Vice-Chair DePalma made a motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board Regular meeting of February 22, 2022. Board Member Moore seconded the motion. The motion passed on a vote of 9-0 with Board Member Di Carlo absent and one vacancy. B. NEW BUSINESS: PRESENTATION, DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS 1. Presentation, discussion and possible action regarding a recommendation to City Council for approval of Permanent Use and Temporary Use (not to exceed 60 days) of parkland located at Govalle Neighborhood Park and Southern Walnut Creek Trail (5200 Bolm Road). Total mitigation fee is $67,818. Vice-Chair Richard DePalma made a motion to recommend City Council approve the permanent use and temporary use (not to exceed 60 days) of parkland located at Govalle Neighborhood Park and Southern Walnut Creek Trail (5200 Bolm Road.) Total mitigation fee is $67,818; Board Member Lisa Hugman seconded the motion. The motion passed on a vote of 8-0 with Board Member Patrick Moore abstaining, Board Member Anna Di Carlo absent and one vacancy. Page 1 of 4 2. Presentation, discussion and possible action regarding preparations for Parks and Recreation Department’s summer activities including staff recruitment, registration and resiliency strategies. Board Member Sarah Faust made a motion to recommend Council pursue all available measures to increase staffing to sustainable levels for all aquatics facilities, with particular emphasis on Barton Springs; Vice-Chair Richard DePalma seconded the motion. The motion passed on a vote of 10-0 with one vacancy. Board Member Nina Rinaldi made a motion to recommend Council pursue all available measures to increase staffing to sustainable levels for all summer camp programming; Vice-Chair Richard DePalma seconded the motion. The motion passed on a vote of 10-0 with one vacancy. 3. Presentation, discussion and possible action regarding the Austin Parks and Recreation Department Fiscal …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD APRIL 25, 2022 MINUTES The Parks and Recreation Board convened in a regular meeting on Monday, April 25, 2022, at 301 W. Second Street, Austin Texas Chair Lewis called the meeting to order at 6:08 PM Board Members in Attendance: Dawn Lewis, Richard DePalma, Nina Rinaldi, Anna Di Carlo, Patrick Moore, Sarah Faust, Nancy Barnard, Kim Taylor, Laura Cottam Sajbel Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Lisa Hugman PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Joe Thompson – Boys & Girls Club of the Austin Area Kevin Reinis – Austin Rowing Club Sharon Blythe – Friends of Austin Memorial Park Scott Cobb – Barton Springs Lifeguard Eric Paulus – Ecology Action A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Chair Lewis made a motion to approve the amended minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of March 28, 2022. Vice-Chair DePalma seconded the motion. The motion passed on a vote of 10-0 with one vacancy. B. NEW BUSINESS: PRESENTATION, DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS 1. Presentation and discussion related to the community engagement and outreach efforts for Zilker metropolitan Park Vision Plan. Greg Montes and Claudia Conner, Parks and Recreation Department, and Clair Hempel, Design Workshop, gave a presentation and answered questions. No action was taken on this item. 2. Presentation, discussion and possible action on Zilker Park Re-Wilding plan. Board Member Rinaldi made a motion to hear agenda item B2 out of order. Vice-Chair DePalma seconded the motion. The motion passed on a vote of 10-0 with one vacancy. Robin Rather and Gail Rothe, Zilker Neighborhood Association, gave a presentation and answered questions. No action was taken on this item. Page 1 of 3 3. Briefing on Dove Springs Health Facility. Kymberly Maddox, Austin Public Health, gave a presentation and answered questions. No action was taken on this item. 4. Presentation, discussion and possible action regarding the Parks and Recreation Department community engagement process. Board Member Taylor made a motion to table agenda item B4. Board Member Di Carlo seconded the motion. The motion passed on a vote of 10-0 with one vacancy. 5. Briefing on the creation of a new parkland dedication ordinance for commercial developments, as described in this presentation and associated Study, for adoption by City Council. Chair Lewis motioned to hear agenda item B5 out of order. Vice-Chair DePalma seconded the motion. The motion passed on a vote of 10-0 with one vacancy. Randy Scott, Paul Books, Robynne …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD CONTRACTS AND CONCESSIONS COMMITTEE FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022 – 10:00 AM BRITTON, DURST, HOWARD AND SPENCE BUILDING 1183 CHESTNUT AVENUE, AUSTIN, TX 78702 Some members of the Parks and Recreation Board will be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by 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. To register call or email the board liaison at 512-974-6716 or Tim.Dombeck@austintexas.gov COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Anna L. Di Carlo (D-2), Chair Nina Rinaldi (D-1) Nancy Barnard (D-7) Laura Cottam Sajbel (D-9) VACANT Dawn Lewis (D-10), Ex-Officio 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. A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of November 9, 2021. B. NEW BUSINESS: PRESENTATION, DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS 1. Discussion and possible action regarding changing the Parks and Recreation Board Contracts and Concessions Committee regular meeting schedule to the third Friday of each month for the remainder of calendar year 2022, except December. Regularly scheduled committee meeting dates will be as follows: May 20, June 17, July 15, August 19, September 16, October 14, November 18. Presenter(s): Anna Di Carlo, Parks and Recreation Board 2. Discussion and possible action regarding Austin City Limits contract. Presenter(s): Dawn Lewis, Parks and Recreation Board Page 1 of 2 3. Discussion and possible action regarding Zilker Café concessions contract Presenter(s): Dawn Lewis, Parks and Recreation Board 4. Discussion and possible action regarding rules/regulations pertaining to park partnerships relating to advertising the partnership. Presenter(s): Dawn Lewis, Parks and Recreation Board C. MONTHLY REPORT ON NEW AND ONGOING CONTRACT DEVELOPMENT Presenter(s): Denisha Cox, Contract Management Supervisor II, Parks and Recreation Department D. 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 …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD CONTRACTS AND CONCESSIONS COMMITTEE MINUTES Nina Rinaldi (D-1) Laura Cottam Sajbel (D-9) Dawn Lewis (D-10), Ex-Officio COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Anna L. DiCarlo (D-2), Chair Nancy Barnard (D-7) VACANT The Contracts and Concessions Committee convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, November 9, 2021 at 1183 Chestnut Avenue in Austin, Texas. Committee Members in Attendance: Chair Anna Di Carlo, Nancy Barnard, Laura Cottam Sajbel, Nina Rinaldi and Dawn Lewis, Ex Officio. Board Chair Dawn Lewis joined the meeting at approximately 12:45pm. Staff in Attendance: Suzanne Piper, Lucas Massie, Patricia Rossett, Delano Brown, Matt McCaw, Denisha Cox, Margaret Stenz and Sammi Curless. CITIZEN COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES The minutes from the October 12, 2021 regular meeting of the Contracts and Concessions Committee were approved as corrected to include an item under the Future Agenda Items section on Committee Chair Di Carlo motion, Committee Member Rinaldi second on a 4-0 vote with one vacancy. B. NEW BUSINESS: PRESENTATION, DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS 1. Presentation, discussion and possible action regarding a recommendation to the Parks and Recreation Board to recommend to City Council to authorize the negotiation and execution of an agreement with the successful proposer, Ecosystem Design Group, LLC, for land management planning for Department natural areas. Committee Member Rinaldi made a motion to recommend to the Parks and Recreation Board to recommend to City Council to authorize the negotiation and execution of an agreement with the successful proposer, Ecosystem Design Group, LLC, for land management planning for Department natural areas; Committee Member Cottam Sajbel seconded the motion. The motion passed on a vote of 4-0 with one vacancy. Page 1 of 3 2. Presentation, discussion and possible action regarding a recommendation to the Parks and Recreation Board to recommend to City Council to authorize the negotiation and execution of an interlocal cooperation agreement with the Austin Independent School District for the use of athletic fields at Delores Duffie and Parque Zaragoza recreation centers. Committee Chair Anna Di Carlo made a motion to recommend to the Parks and Recreation Board to recommend to City Council to authorize the negotiation and execution of an interlocal cooperation agreement with the Austin Independent School District for the use of athletic fields at Delores Duffie and Parque Zaragoza recreation centers; Committee Member Barnard seconded the motion. The motion passed on a vote of 4-0 with one vacancy. 3. Presentation, discussion …
