REGULAR MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD FEBRUARY 26, 2024 – 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. 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. 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/0E6sDvjENu 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: Pedro Villalobos (D-2), Chair Kathryn Flowers (D-4), Vice Chair Shelby Orme (D-1) Nicole Merritt (D-3) DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Stephanie Bazan (D-5) Lisa Hugman (D-6) Julie Hayes (D-7) Kim Taylor (D-8) AGENDA ADDENDUM Jennifer Franklin (D-9) Holly Reed (D-10) Lane Becker (Mayor) 12. Discussion and possible action regarding a recommendation to Austin City Council to approve a resolution to establish Austin as a recognized soccer city and direct the City Manager to analyze challenges and needs in soccer field development and soccer programming and to provide recommendations. (Sponsors: Villalobos, Orme) 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 call Tim Dombeck at Parks and Recreation Department, at (512) 974-6716 Tim.Dombeck@austintexas.gov, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Parks and Recreation Board, please contact Tim Dombeck at (512) 974-6716 Tim.Dombeck@austintexas.gov. Page 1 of 1
Butler Trail Code Amendment Leslie Lilly Environmental Conservation Program Manager N I T S U A F O Y T I C W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T N I T S U A F O Y T I C 2 Background • Construction of Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail began in 1971 • Code compliant at time of construction • 2017 WPO code amendment restrictions on 50 ft setback • Current use today averages ~ 5 million visits annually W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T N I T S U A F O Y T I C 3 Background Amendment initiated by City Council on May 18th, 2023 W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T N I T S U A F O Y T I C 4 The Trail Conservancy • Urban Forestry and Natural Areas Management Guidelines • Safety and Mobility Study • Parkland Operations And Maintenance Agreement W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T Site Conditions 5 N I T S U A F O Y T I C W A T E R S H E D P R O T E C T I O N D E P A R T M E N T N I T S U A F O Y T I C 6 Proposed Amendment • • • 25-8-261 (B)(3)(c) to allow the Butler Trail to exceed 12 feet width (no administrative variance) 25-8-261 (B)(3)(f-g) to allow the Butler Trail to be located within 50 feet of the shoreline of Lady Bird Lake with a baseline of 1:1 restoration, and up to 2:1 restoration where feasible, for impacts associated with reconstruction and capital improvements or alternative compliance as approved by the Director of Watershed. Current code only allows this with an administrative variance. 25-8-261 (C)(2) to remove the requirement for additional restoration for shoreline disturbance …
…. § 25-8-261 - CRITICAL WATER QUALITY ZONE DEVELOPMENT. In all watersheds, development is prohibited in a critical water quality zone except as provided in this Division. Development allowed in the critical water quality zone under this Division shall be revegetated and restored within the limits of construction as prescribed by the Environmental Criteria Manual. (B) Open space is permitted in a critical water quality zone if a program of fertilizer, pesticide, and herbicide use is approved by the Watershed Protection Department, subject to the conditions in this Subsection. (3) A hard surfaced trail may cross the critical water quality zone pursuant to Section 25-8- 262 (Critical Water Quality Zone Mobility Crossings). A hard surfaced trail that does not cross the critical water quality zone may be located within the critical water quality zone only if: (a) designed in accordance with the Environmental Criteria Manual; (b) located outside the erosion hazard zone unless protective works are provided as prescribed in the Drainage Criteria Manual; (c) limited to 12 feet in width plus one-foot compacted sub-grade shoulders, unless a wider trail is designated in a Council-adopted plan or the trail is a part of the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail system; (d) located not less than 25 feet from the centerline of a waterway if within an urban watershed; (e) located not less than 50 feet from the centerline of a minor waterway, 100 feet from the centerline of an intermediate waterway, and 150 feet from the centerline of a major waterway if within a watershed other than an urban watershed; (f) located not less than 50 feet from the shoreline of Lake Travis, Lake Austin, Lady Bird Lake unless necessary for the construction of the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail system as allowed in (g) below, and Lake Walter E. Long, as defined in Section 25-8-92; and (g) located not less than 50 feet from the shoreline of Lady Bird Lake as defined in Section 25-8-92, unless restoration is provided at a minimum ratio of 1:1 with the option that the applicant and the Director collaborate to reach up to 2:1, as determined by a functional assessment of floodplain health; or (g) (h) located not less than 100 feet from the ordinary high water mark of the Colorado River downstream from Longhorn Dam. (C) The requirements of this subsection apply along Lake Travis, Lake …
EAST BRAKER LANE EXTENSION Transportation and Public Works Department Parks and Recreation Board Meeting February 26th, 2024 Parks Easement Parks Easement Introduction ■ The City has acquired ROW through development applications to extend E. Braker Lane from Decker Lane to Blue Bluff Road. ■ Braker Lane is an ASMP Level 3 roadway. ■ ROW for segment has already been dedicated (Doc. 2022015081). ■ Parkland easement is opened to full use along Lone Star gas line (Doc. 2020194382) ■ Transportation and Public Works Department (TPW) is requesting a permanent change of use of parkland easement for ROW, utility, and drainage construction through the Ch. 26 process. ■ The roadway will have raised protected bicycle lanes, sidewalks, tree and furniture zones, and landscaped medians and buffers. ■ Memo of understanding with PARD, WPD includes: – commitment to connect Critical Environmental Features (CEFs) via culverts – Addition of rain gardens and green infrastructure in the tree/furniture zone – new plantings outside of the ROW per City standard detail 609-S) – grade-separated and/or protected crossings across the new road at the Austin to Manor Urban Trail Parkland Mitigation Summary ■ Permanent Use (Roadway): ■ Chapter 26 Processing Fee: ■ Total Payment Amount: 7,818 sq. ft. $4,000 $4000 ■ The Transportation and Public Works Department will pay the processing fee. ■ Mitigation is to restore pedestrian/bicycle connectivity. Request and Timeline: ■ The Transportation and Public Works Department requests a recommendation to City Council to approve 7,818 square feet for an ASMP required roadway connection through a parkland easement. ■ TPW agrees to provide safe pedestrian/bicycle connectivity through a crossing of Braker Lane to be located as close to the exclusive parkland easement as possible. ■ The Braker extension will be built out over time in its entirety, however, this Ch. 26 request is limited to a section of dedicated ROW and currently has a site plan for roadway construction under review. ■ Points of Contact: Bryan Golden, Transportation and Public Works; Gregory Montes, Parks and Recreation.
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 M.O.U. # 24-002 2/15/2024 Chapter 26 Administrative Fee = $4,000 Richard Mendoza, P.E. Director, Transportation and Public Works Department Kimberly McNeeley, M.Ed., CPRP Director, Parks and Recreation Department TO: FROM: SUBJECT: East Braker Lane Extension DATE: Transportation and Public Works Department (TPW) is requesting a Chapter 26 application for the change of use of an existing 7,818 sq. ft exclusive Park Recreational Easement to allow for the construction of the East Braker Lane Extension in accordance with the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan as depicted on Attachment A (Location Map). As part of the mitigation and to restore connectivity, the TPW shall designate safe bicycle and pedestrian crossing across E. Braker Lane to connect the adjacent neighborhoods to Walter E. Long Metropolitan Park. This connection shall be reflected in the Urban Trails GIS layer for reference, within a month upon approval of this Chapter 26 case by City Council. TPW is subject to the Chapter 26 Administrative Fee below. Transportation and Public Works Point of Contact: Bryan Golden Parks and Recreation Point of Contact: Gregory Montes Phone Number: 512-974-9458 Parks & Recreation Board: Council Approval: ___________________________________________________________ Kimberly McNeeley, M.Ed., CPRP Director, Parks and Recreation Department CONCURRENCE ____________________________________________________________ Richard Mendoza, P.E. Director, Transportation and Public Works Department Phone Number: 512-974-9183 Date Date Attachments A: (Location Map) 1 of 2
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION YYYYMMDD-XXX Date: Subject: Renaming the Barton Springs Bathhouse to the “Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse at Barton Springs Pool” Seconded By: Motioned By: Recommendation The Parks and Recreation Board Recommends that the Austin City Council rename the Barton Springs Bathhouse to the “Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse at Barton Springs Pool” Rationale: Whereas Joan Means Khabele was born in Austin, Texas, during a time when the City of Austin segregated the city’s neighborhoods and public amenities through the systematic enactment of racist policies; Whereas Parks were segregated by race during this era, and Black Austinites were not permitted to swim at Barton Springs; Whereas in 1956, Ms. Khabele was one of the first Black students to enroll at all-white Austin High School and when Ms. Khabele and other Black students were denied the opportunity to swim at Barton Springs during the Austin High School annual senior picnic, she protested by jumping in the pool despite policies forbidding Black people to swim in a pool designated for only white people; Whereas Ms. Khabele, along with other activists, bravely defied the segregationist policies of the time during these “swim ins,” which eventually led to the integration of Barton Springs pool and other recreational facilities in the city; Whereas community survey results show significant support for renaming the facility the “Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse” with 86% of respondents endorsing the renaming; Whereas a review of the 204 comments on the survey indicates overwhelming support of the proposal to rename the bathhouse after Joan Means Khabele. Comments primarily touch on the positive qualities of Ms. Khabele and the ways she influenced people’s lives; Whereas the Bathhouse Working Group of the Parks and Recreation Board suggested “Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse” as one of the options for the bathhouse; Whereas the American Historical Association states, “History comprises both facts and interpretations of those facts…to change the name of a school or street, is not to erase history, but rather to alter or call attention to a previous interpretation of history. A monument is not history itself; a monument 1 of 2 commemorates an aspect of history, representing a moment in the past when a public or private decision defined who would be honored in a community’s public spaces.” NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Board: 1. Recommends that the Austin City Council rename the Barton Springs …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION YYYYMMDD-XXX Seconded By: Establish Austin as a Recognized Soccer City Date: Subject: Motioned By: Recommendation The Parks and Recreation Board Recommends that the Austin City Council approve a resolution to establish Austin as a recognized soccer city and direct the City Manager to analyze challenges and needs in soccer field development and soccer programming and to provide recommendations. Rationale: Whereas, the city of Austin has demonstrated a growing interest and participation in the sport of soccer, with a vibrant community of players, fans, and organizations dedicated to its promotion and development; Whereas, Austin's diverse population embraces soccer as a unifying force, bringing together people of various backgrounds, cultures, and ages in the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie; Whereas, soccer serves as a catalyst for promoting equity and community health, offering opportunities for social inclusion, physical activity, and youth development across all neighborhoods and demographics in Austin; Whereas, ensuring equitable access to soccer fields and programming is integral to addressing disparities and promoting wellness among underserved communities in Austin; Whereas, the emergence of professional soccer teams, such as Austin FC, has captured the enthusiasm and support of residents, contributing to the city's identity as a dynamic and inclusive soccer city; Whereas, the availability and accessibility of quality soccer facilities and programming are essential to nurturing talent, fostering youth development, and promoting healthy lifestyles among Austin's residents; Whereas, there exists a need to assess and address the challenges and requirements associated with soccer field development, maintenance, and programming to ensure equitable access and utilization across Austin's communities; Whereas, recognizing the importance of strategic planning and resource allocation in advancing soccer initiatives, it is imperative to empower the City Manager to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the current landscape of soccer facilities, programming, and associated needs within Austin; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Board: 1 of 2 1. Recommends that the Austin City Council approve a resolution to establish Austin as a recognized soccer city and direct the City Manager to analyze challenges and needs in soccer field development and soccer programming and to provide recommendations. Vote For: Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: [Staff or board member can sign] 2 of 2
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 22, 2024 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 22, 2024 The PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD convened in a REGULAR meeting on January 22, 2024 at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Villalobos called the PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Meeting to order at 6:08 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Pedro Villalobos, Lisa Hugman, Holly Reed. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Kathryn Flowers, Stephanie Bazan, Lane Becker, Jennifer Franklin, Julie Hayes, Nicole Merritt, Kim Taylor. Board Members Absent: Shelby Orme. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Allison Johnson - Pease Park Conservancy Diana Prechter - Trail of Lights Admission Fees Claire Krebs - Festival Beach Community Garden Grace Gilker - I-35 Food Forest sound barrier Kayla Reese - Austin Parks Foundation Saira Rabbani - Norwood House Restoration Aubrea Rudder - Austin Rowing Club Santiago - Various topics APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meetings of October 23, 2023 and November 27, 2023. The motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meetings of October 23, 2023 and November 27, 2023 was approved on Board Member Hugman’s motion, Board Member Villalobos’ second on a 10-0 vote. Board Member Orme absent. 2. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board Finance Committee meeting of March 23, 2023. The motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board Finance Committee meeting of March 23, 2023 was approved on Board Member Hugman’s motion, Board Member Flower’s second on a 10-0 vote. Board Member Orme absent. 1 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 22, 2024 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Discussion and possible action on letters of support for PARD Staff and Community Groups that participated in a 50,000 square foot graffiti abatement and park maintenance project at the Heath Eiland and Morgan Moss BMX Skate Park, and for PARD staff that prepared six recreation centers to accept portable generators as a supplemental/alternative power source should electric power be unavailable. Sonny Chandler, Parks Grounds Manager and Sarah Talkington, Consulting Engineer, Parks and Recreation Department gave a presentation and answered questions. The motion to approve letters of support for Community Groups that participated in a 50,000 square foot graffiti abatement and park maintenance project at the Heath Eiland and Morgan Moss BMX Skate Park, and for PARD staff that prepared six recreation centers to …
City of Austin Parks and Recreation Nature Programs Unit Austin Nature & Science Center • Open 7 days per week • 15-acre campus • 5 buildings including the historic Ashford McGill Trailhouse • USDA permitted Wildlife Collection: 76 exhibit & ambassador animals • 22,000 Nature Trades at the Naturalist Workshop • ~165,000 Drop-in Visitors to the Austin Nature and Science Center Nature’s Way Preschool Program • 9 class weekly • 553 classes meetings • 2044 program hours • 1 parent workday • 72 unique participants Lorraine “Grandma” Camacho Activity Center • Open 5 days per week • 1 ADA accessible boat dock • 1 Traveling Competitive National Interscholastic Cycling Association Bike Team Beverly S. Sheffield Education Center • Closed for renovation: Open 7 days per week • Splash! Exhibit: located in the historic Barton Springs Bathhouse • Splash! fulfills education requirement of the US Fish and Wildlife Permit and Barton Springs Pool Habitat Conservation Plan School Programs • 269 Class Field Trips to Austin Nature and Science Center • 85 Homeschool Meet-ups & Science Club at ANSC • 39 Recreation Center Outreach Programs Field Trips • 16,184 participants • Homeschool Meet-up & Science Club = 665 participants Total participant hours = 26,518 Education Outreach • At Your School Instructor-led Programs = 571 participants • Outreach to Community Recreation & Senior Centers = 1,046 participants Public Programs • 2 Special Events • 3 Break Camp Programs • 2 Half-day Summer Camps • 1 Counselor in Training Program • 5 Home School Adventure Programs • 9 Full-day Summer Camps • 7 Out of School Time Programs Camps Break Camps • 36 program meetings • 378 program hours Summer Camps 10 Weeks • • Total participants = 828 Total participant hours = 51,888 Special Events & Citywide Initiatives Total Solar Eclipse 2024 • 10 city park watch locations • Eclipse safety and citizen science education staff training across divisions • Providing accessible eclipse experience with Light-Sound Devices • Eclipse glasses recycling program • NASA Sun Spot Collaboration
February 26, 2024 Dear Jessica Gilzow, We are wri�ng to express our hear�elt apprecia�on and recogni�on for your excep�onal contribu�ons to the Aus�n Nature & Science Center. Your dedica�on, crea�vity, and �reless efforts have significantly enhanced the quality of our center and enriched the educa�onal experiences we offer to our community. Your innova�ve ideas and steadfast commitment to improving the Aus�n Nature & Science Center have not gone unno�ced. Your vision has brought about remarkable changes that have transformed the center into a vibrant hub for learning and explora�on. From revamping the facility to introducing cap�va�ng educa�onal programming, your ini�a�ves have truly elevated our community. We are par�cularly impressed by your ingenuity in developing crea�ve educa�onal programs that engage and inspire visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Your ability to combine scien�fic knowledge with interac�ve experiences has made learning both enjoyable and enriching for our guests. Through your efforts, you have fostered a deeper apprecia�on for nature, science, culture, and the environment among our visitors, leaving a las�ng impact on their lives. Furthermore, your collabora�ve spirit and willingness to go above and beyond have been instrumental in fostering a posi�ve and inclusive community where bridges are being built. Thank you for your outstanding contribu�ons and for making a profound difference in the lives of those we serve. Warm regards, Pedro A. Villalobos Chair, Parks and Recrea�on Board Kathryn Flowers Vice-Chair, Parks and Recrea�on Board
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD DIRECTOR’S UPDATE DATE: February 2024 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT EVENTS: Barton Springs Bathhouse Rehabilitation and Beverly S. Sheffield Education Center Renovation Groundbreaking Ceremony: The Parks and Recreation Department (Department), Capital Delivery Services Department, and the Barton Springs Conservancy hosted the groundbreaking celebration on Thursday, February 22nd at 10 a.m. The outdoor event was held in front of the central rotunda of the bathhouse. For more information about the celebration, visit the Barton Springs Bathhouse Rehabilitation Groundbreaking Ceremony. For more information about renovations, visit the Barton Springs Bathhouse Rehabilitation project. District 8 Barton Springs Bathhouse Rehabilitation Groundbreaking Jamestown Neighborhood Park: The first community meeting for the Jamestown Neighborhood Park concept plan will take place virtually at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 5th. Located at 8323 Jamestown Drive, between Research Boulevard and Maine Drive, this land has been vacant since at least the 1940s. In 2021, the City of Austin acquired a 3.47-acre parcel, then expanded the park by acquiring an adjacent parcel in 2022. In 2023, the park was awarded overall park planning services by the Austin Parks Foundation. With this service, the Austin Parks Foundation, in coordination with the Department, will develop a Concept Plan shaped by community input. District 4 https://www.austintexas.gov/jamestownpark 1 Pease District Park: A community celebration commemorating the installation of the Dambo Troll will take place on March 15th, from 3-5:00 p.m. Artist Thomas Dambo will be in attendance. Construction on the installation in Pease District Park began in February 2024. The installation is part of an Art in Public Places loan agreement with Pease Park Conservancy. The troll is built from recycled wood sourced from Harvest Lumber, a sustainable sawmill dedicated to giving new life to Austin’s fallen trees. Much of the material that will be used to build Austin’s troll was milled by Harvest Lumber from the water tower that resided at the J.J. Pickle Research Campus of the University of Texas at Austin. District 10 https://peasepark.org/news/trollfaq Bolm District Park Vision Plan: The Department has contracted with Halff Associates to develop a vision plan for Bolm District Park, a 68-acre undeveloped park along the Colorado River at 6700 Bolm Road. The second virtual community meeting was held on February 13th. This meeting shared previous community feedback results, park priorities, and presented two park concepts. A survey will be open through mid-March to garner feedback on these concepts. In addition, the planning team will …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20240226-3 February 26, 2024 Butler Trail Code Amendment Date: Subject: Motioned By: Kathryn Flowers Recommendation The Parks and Recreation Board recommends to Austin City Council to approve an ordinance to amend Title 25 related to the environmental protections at the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, including an amended §25-8-261(B)(3)(g) to read “located not less than 50 feet from the shoreline of Lady Bird Lake as defined in Section 25-8-92, unless restoration is provided at a minimum ratio of 2:1, with the option that the applicant and the Director collaborate for a minimum 1:1 restoration, where necessary, as determined by a functional assessment of floodplain health”. Vote Seconded By: Lisa Hugman The motion to recommend to Austin City Council to approve an ordinance to amend Title 25 related to the environmental protections at the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, including an amended §25-8-261(B)(3)(g) to read “located not less than 50 feet from the shoreline of Lady Bird Lake as defined in Section 25-8-92, unless restoration is provided at a minimum ratio of 2:1, with the option that the applicant and the Director collaborate for a minimum 1:1 restoration, where necessary, as determined by a functional assessment of floodplain health” was approved on Vice Chair Flowers motion, Board Member Hugman’s second on a 6-3 vote. Those voting aye were: Chair Villalobos, Vice Chair Flowers, Board Members Bazan, Becker, Franklin and Merritt. Those voting nay were: Board Members Hugman, Reed and Taylor. Board Members Hayes and Orme absent. Pedro Villalobos, Kathryn Flowers, Stephanie Bazan, Lane Becker, Jennifer Franklin and Nicole Merritt. Julie Hayes and Shelby Orme. Lisa Hugman, Holly Reed and Kim Taylor. Against: Abstain: None. Absent: Attest: Tim Dombeck, Board and Council Liaison, Parks and Recreation Department. For:
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20240226-4 February 26, 2024 Chapter 26 Braker Lane Extension Date: Subject: Motioned By: Pedro Villalobos Recommendation The Parks and Recreation Board Recommends to Austin City Council to approve 7,818 square feet for an ASMP required roadway connection through a parkland easement. Vote Seconded By: Lisa Hugman The motion to recommend to Austin City Council to approve 7,818 square feet for an ASMP required roadway connection through a parkland easement was approved on Chair Villalobos’ motion, Board Member Hugman’s second on a 9-0 vote. Board Members Hayes and Orme absent. For: Pedro Villalobos, Kathryn Flowers, Stephanie Bazan, Lane Becker, Jennifer Franklin, Lisa Hugman, Nicole Merritt, Holly Reed and Kim Taylor. Julie Jayes and Shelby Orme. Against: None. Abstain: None. Absent: Attest: Tim Dombeck, Board and Council Liaison, Parks and Recreation Department.
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20240226-5 Date: Subject: February 26, 2024 Renaming the Barton Springs Bathhouse to the “Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse at Barton Springs Pool” Seconded By: Holly Reed Motioned By: Pedro Villalobos Recommendation The Parks and Recreation Board Recommends that the Austin City Council rename the Barton Springs Bathhouse to the “Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse at Barton Springs Pool” Rationale: Whereas Joan Means Khabele was born in Austin, Texas, during a time when the City of Austin segregated the city’s neighborhoods and public amenities through the systematic enactment of racist policies; Whereas Parks were segregated by race during this era, and Black Austinites were not permitted to swim at Barton Springs; Whereas in 1956, Ms. Khabele was one of the first Black students to enroll at all-white Austin High School and when Ms. Khabele and other Black students were denied the opportunity to swim at Barton Springs during the Austin High School annual senior picnic, she protested by jumping in the pool despite policies forbidding Black people to swim in a pool designated for only white people; Whereas Ms. Khabele, along with other activists, bravely defied the segregationist policies of the time during these “swim ins,” which eventually led to the integration of Barton Springs pool and other recreational facilities in the city; Whereas community survey results show significant support for renaming the facility the “Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse” with 86% of respondents endorsing the renaming; Whereas a review of the 204 comments on the survey indicates overwhelming support of the proposal to rename the bathhouse after Joan Means Khabele. Comments primarily touch on the positive qualities of Ms. Khabele and the ways she influenced people’s lives; Whereas the Bathhouse Working Group of the Parks and Recreation Board suggested “Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse” as one of the options for the bathhouse; Whereas the American Historical Association states, “History comprises both facts and interpretations of those facts…to change the name of a school or street, is not to erase history, but rather to alter or call attention to a previous interpretation of history. A monument is not history itself; a monument 1 of 2 commemorates an aspect of history, representing a moment in the past when a public or private decision defined who would be honored in a community’s public spaces.” NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Board: 1. Recommends that the …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20240226-6 February 26, 2024 Waller Creek Boathouse Conditional Use Permit Date: Subject: Motioned By: Kathryn Flowers Recommendation The Parks and Recreation Board recommends to Austin City Council to approve the Conditional Use Permit for Waller Creek Boathouse/Austin Rowing Club for the sale of alcohol to bring the site into compliance with the Land Development Code. Vote Seconded By: Pedro Villalobos The motion to recommend to Austin City Council to approve the Conditional Use Permit for Waller Creek Boathouse/Austin Rowing Club for the sale of alcohol to bring the site into compliance with the Land Development Code was approved on Vice Chair Flowers motion, Chair Villalobos’ second on an 8-0 vote. Board Member Reed abstaining. Board Members Hayes and Orme absent. For: Pedro Villalobos, Kathryn Flowers, Stephanie Bazan, Lane Becker, Jennifer Franklin, Lisa Hugman, Nicole Merritt, and Kim Taylor. Julie Jayes and Shelby Orme. Against: None. Abstain: Holly Reed. Absent: Attest: Tim Dombeck, Board and Council Liaison, Parks and Recreation Department. 1 of 1
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20240226-12 February 26, 2024 Seconded By: Stephanie Bazan Establish Austin as a Recognized Soccer City Date: Subject: Motioned By: Pedro Villalobos Recommendation The Parks and Recreation Board Recommends that the Austin City Council approve a resolution to establish Austin as a recognized soccer city and direct the City Manager to analyze challenges and needs in soccer field development and soccer programming and to provide recommendations. Rationale: Whereas, the city of Austin has demonstrated a growing interest and participation in the sport of soccer, with a vibrant community of players, fans, and organizations dedicated to its promotion and development; Whereas, Austin's diverse population embraces soccer as a unifying force, bringing together people of various backgrounds, cultures, and ages in the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie; Whereas, soccer serves as a catalyst for promoting equity and community health, offering opportunities for social inclusion, physical activity, and youth development across all neighborhoods and demographics in Austin; Whereas, ensuring equitable access to soccer fields and programming is integral to addressing disparities and promoting wellness among underserved communities in Austin; Whereas, the emergence of professional soccer teams, such as Austin FC, has captured the enthusiasm and support of residents, contributing to the city's identity as a dynamic and inclusive soccer city; Whereas, the availability and accessibility of quality soccer facilities and programming are essential to nurturing talent, fostering youth development, and promoting healthy lifestyles among Austin's residents; Whereas, there exists a need to assess and address the challenges and requirements associated with soccer field development, maintenance, and programming to ensure equitable access and utilization across Austin's communities; Whereas, recognizing the importance of strategic planning and resource allocation in advancing soccer initiatives, it is imperative to empower the City Manager to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the current landscape of soccer facilities, programming, and associated needs within Austin; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Board: 1 of 2 1. Recommends that the Austin City Council approve a resolution to establish Austin as a recognized soccer city and direct the City Manager to analyze challenges and needs in soccer field development and soccer programming and to provide recommendations. Vote For: The motion to recommend that that the Austin City Council approve a resolution to establish Austin as a recognized soccer city and direct the City Manager to analyze challenges and needs in soccer field development …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 26, 2024 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 26, 2024 The PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD convened in a REGULAR meeting on February 26, 2024 at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Villalobos called the PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Pedro Villalobos, Kathryn Flowers, Stephanie Bazan, Lisa Hugman, Nicole Merritt, Holly Reed. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Lane Becker, Jennifer Franklin, Kim Taylor. Board Members Absent: Julie Hayes, Shelby Orme. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Ted Eubanks - Friends of Wooldridge Square Claire Krebs - Festival Beach Community Garden Andrea Hill - Barton Springs Bathhouse Contract Diana Prechter - Barton Springs Bathhouse Patricia Bobeck - Donating 3 minutes to Diana Prechter Liz Barhydt - Austin Rowing Club Joel Manzo - Austin Youth Baseball. Donated 2 minutes to Jason Williams Jason Williams - Game time fields owner Zoey Carlson - Austin Sandlot Baseball Community Santiago - Incomplete tree inventory near I-35 C Rickner - Austin Sandlot Baseball Community APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meetings of January 22, 2024. The motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meetings of January 22, 2024 was approved on Chair Villalobos’ motion, Board Member Merritt’s second on a 9-0 vote. Board Members Hayes and Orme absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and possible action regarding letters of support for the Parks and Recreation Department Nature Programs Team 2. 1 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 26, 2024 Amanda Ross, Natural Resources Division Manager, Parks and Recreation Department gave a presentation. The motion to approve the letters of support for the Parks and Recreation Department Nature Programs Unit was approved on Chair Villalobos' motion, Board Member Bazan's second on a 9-0. Board Members Hayes and Orme absent. 3. Presentation, discussion and possible action regarding a recommendation to Austin City Council to approve an ordinance to amend Title 25 related to the environmental protections at the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. Leslie Lilly, Environmental Program Manager, Liz Johnston, Environmental Policy Program Coordinator and Katie Coyne, Assistant Director, Watershed Protection Department gave a presentation and answered questions on the width of portions of the trail, erosion, trail paving martials, 2:1 mitigation vs 1:1 mitigation, City Council's authority to authorize the widening of trails, Council …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD JANUARY 22, 2024 – 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. 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. 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/U6HTDwmZki 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: Pedro Villalobos (D-2), Chair Kathryn Flowers (D-4), Vice Chair Shelby Orme (D-1) Nicole Merritt (D-3) Stephanie Bazan (D-5) Lisa Hugman (D-6) Julie Hayes (D-7) Kim Taylor (D-8) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Jennifer Franklin (D-9) Holly Reed (D-10) Lane Becker (Mayor) 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 Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meetings of October 23, 2023 and November 27, 2023. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board Finance Committee meeting of March 23, 2023. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and possible action on letters of support for PARD Staff and Community Groups that participated in a 50,000 square foot graffiti abatement and park maintenance project at the Heath Eiland and Morgan Moss BMX Skate Park, and for PARD staff that prepared six recreation centers to accept portable generators as a supplemental/alternative power source should electric power be unavailable. Presentation, discussion and possible action regarding a recommendation to Austin City Council to approve negotiation and execution of a one-year contract extension with Zilker Park Boat Rentals. (PARD Long Range Strategies: Relief from Urban Life, Urban Public Spaces, Park Access for All). Presenter(s): Pat Rossett, Business Process Consultant, Parks and Recreation Department. Page 1 of 3 1. 2. 3. 4. Presentation, discussion and possible action regarding a recommendation to Austin City Council to approve an ordinance to amend Title 25 related to the environmental protections at the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. (PARD Long Range Strategies: Urban Public Spaces, Park …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 23, 2023 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 23, 2023 The PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD convened in a REGULAR meeting on October 23, 2023 at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Villalobos called the PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Pedro Villalobos, Kathryn Flowers, Lisa Hugman, Holly Reed, Stephanie Bazan, Nicole Merritt, Jennifer Franklin. Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Lane Becker, Kim Taylor, Julie Hayes, Shelby Orme. Board Members Absent: None. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Dorothy Lopez-Barnett - Zilker Park Boat Rental Kayla Reese - Austin Parks Foundation Joel Manzo - Baseball facilities Scott Cobb - Barton Springs Bathhouse Naming Liz Barhydt - Austin Rowing Club Chris Flores - Assigned reserved parking for Barton Springs Lifeguards Santiago - Heritage tree at Edward Rendon Park Tanya Payne - Rewild Zilker and ACL Fest Questions Diana Prechter - Zilker Equitable Access issues APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of September 25, 2023. The motion to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Board regular meeting of September 25, 2023 was approved on Board Member Franklin’s motion, Board Member Hugman’s second on a 11-0 vote . DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Presentation, discussion and possible action regarding a recommendation to Austin City Council to approve the Parkland Maintenance Agreement between the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department and the Mueller Property Owner’s Association. Ricardo Soliz, Division Manager, Parks and Recreation Department and Jill Fagan, Project Manager, Economic Development Department gave a presentation and answered questions on 2. 1 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 23, 2023 skate park and pump track maintenance, impacts to the City budget, parkland use by non- Mueller residents, the fee to access Mueller pool, pool hours and the term of the contract. The motion to recommend to Austin City Council to approve the Parkland Maintenance Agreement between the City of Austin Park and Recreation Department and the Mueller Property Owner’s Association was approved on Board Member Becker’s motion, Board Member Franklin’s second on an 11-0 vote. 3. Presentation, discussion and possible action regarding a recommendation to Austin City Council to approve the Parkland Dedication Ordinance term sheet. Robynne Heyman, Planner Principal, Parks and Recreation Department gave a presentation and answered questions on available options that the City has when …
