Special Called Meeting of the Parks and Recreation Board - Special Called meeting will be held at the Permitting and Development Center located at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Austin, TX 78752
MEMORANDUM January 14, 2021 Boards and Commissions Diane Siler, Interim Budget Officer FY 2021-22 Budget Process and Calendar TO: FROM: DATE: SUBJECT: The City continues to be committed to an inclusive and transparent budget development process that incorporates resident and stakeholder feedback into budget considerations and priorities. One important component of this process is input received annually from the City’s various boards and commissions. In FY 2020-21, your input on community needs resulted in significant investments in affordable housing, homelessness response, and public health initiatives. Due to the financial constraints from COVID-19 coupled with the 3.5% property tax revenue cap, the FY 2021-22 budget development process will focus on maintaining existing services. With these constraints in mind, we encourage boards and commissions to provide feedback on the efficiency, equity, and effectiveness of the City’s existing services and programs. As always, the Budget Office is available to discuss these topics in more detail at boards and commissions meetings upon request. As in previous years, the Budget Office will coordinate with City departments to review recommendations passed by boards and commissions. Please note that department budgets are due to the Budget Office on May 7, 2021. Therefore, recommendations should be submitted to the City Clerk no later than April 9, 2021 to provide departments the opportunity to include the recommendation, upon completion of review, into their proposed budget submittal. A template will be created to help Commissions organize and submit their recommendations. For your information, the Council-approved calendar for the FY 2021-22 budget is shown below: • May 7 • July 9 • July 22 • July 27 • July 29 • August 3 • August 11 Department Budgets Due to the Budget Office Presentation of the FY21-22 Proposed Budget to City Council First Budget Hearing City Council Budget Work Session Second Budget Hearing City Council Budget Work Session Tax Rate Hearing and Budget Adoption Additional information, including the FY 2020-21 final survey report, FY 2020-21 board and commission recommendation summaries, and FY 2021-22 budget engagement updates, can be found at the City’s Budget Engagement website at www.austintexas.gov/budget. Should you have any questions, please contact our office at BudgetQA@austintexas.gov. cc: Spencer Cronk, City Manager Nuria Rivera-Vandermyde, Deputy City Manager Assistant City Managers Ed Van Eenoo, Chief Financial Officer, Financial Services Department Department Directors
Versión en español a continuación. Parks and Recreation Board Meeting February 23, 2021 Parks and Recreation Board to be held February 23, 2021 with Social Distancing Modifications Public comment will be allowed via telephone; no in-person input will be allowed. All speakers must register in advance (February 22, 2021 by noon). All public comment will occur at the beginning of the meeting. To speak remotely at the February 23, 2021 Parks and Recreation Board Meeting, members of the public must: • Call or email the board liaison at 512-974-6716 or sammi.curless@austintexas.gov no later than noon, (the day before the meeting). The information required is the speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, and a telephone number or email address. • Once a request to speak has been made to the board liaison, the information to call on the day of the scheduled meeting will be provided either by email or phone call. • Speakers must call in at least 15 minutes prior to meeting start time in order to speak, late callers will not be accepted and will not be able to speak. • Speakers will be placed in a queue until their time to speak. • Handouts or other information may be emailed to sammi.curless@austintexas.gov by noon the day before the scheduled meeting. This information will be provided to Board and Commission members in advance of the meeting. If this meeting is broadcast live, residents may watch the meeting here: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live • Reunión del Parks and Recreation Board February 23, 2021 La junta se llevará con modificaciones de distanciamiento social Se permitirán comentarios públicos por teléfono; no se permitirá ninguna entrada en persona. Todos los oradores deben registrarse con anticipación (February 22, 2021 antes del mediodía). Todos los comentarios públicos se producirán al comienzo de la reunión. Para hablar de forma remota en la reunión, los miembros del público deben: • Llame o envíe un correo electrónico al enlace de la junta en 512-974-6716 or sammi.curless@austintexas.gov a más tardar al mediodía (el día antes de la reunión). Se requiere la siguiente información: nombre del orador, número (s) de artículo sobre el que desean hablar, si están a favor / en contra / neutral, dirección de correo electrónico (opcional) y un número de teléfono (debe ser el número que se utilizará para llamar ). • Una vez que se haya realizado una solicitud para …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Tuesday, January 26, 2021 – 6:00pm MINUTES The Parks and Recreation Board convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, January 26, 2021 via videoconference in Austin, Texas. Chair Lewis called the meeting to order at 6:02pm. Board Members in Attendance: Chair Dawn Lewis; Laura Cottam Sajbel; Richard DePalma; Anna DiCarlo; Sarah Faust; Francoise Luca; Kate Mason-Murphy; Fred Morgan; Nina Rinaldi and Kimberly Taylor. Board Members Absent: Vice Chair Romteen Farasat. Board Member Faust joined the meeting at approximately 6:10pm. Staff in Attendance: Kimberly McNeeley; Brie Franco; Liana Kallivoka; Lucas Massie; Suzanne Piper; Anthony Segura; Scott Grantham; Mary Marrero; Randy Scott; and Sammi Curless. CITIZEN COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Bill Bunch – continued support for Barton Springs area. A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES The minutes from the special meeting of December 4, 2020 were approved on Board Member Morgan motion, Board Member Cottam Sajbel second on an 10-0 with Vice Chair Farasat absent. B. NEW BUSINESS: PRESENTATION, DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS 1. Discussion and possible action regarding Recommendation 20210126-B1 supporting the City of Austin’s 2020 Legislative Agenda. Public comment from Bill Bunch encouraging the City to explore utilizing Hotel Occupancy Tax to fund parks. Board Member Cottam Sajbel made a motion to approve Recommendation 20210126- B1; Board Members DePalma and Taylor seconded the motion. The motion passed on a vote of 10-0 with Vice Chair Farasat absent. 2. Make a recommendation to the Planning Commission to deny the applicant's request to pay fee in lieu of land dedication for 4802 S. Congress (SP-2019-0600C). Page 1 of 3 Board Member Mason-Murphy made a motion to recommend to the Planning Commission to deny the applicant's request to pay fee in lieu of land dedication for 4802 S. Congress (SP-2019-0600C) and uphold staff’s recommendation for the dedication of parkland; Board Morgan seconded the motion. The motion passed on a vote of 9-1 with Board Member Luca voting nay and Vice Chair Farasat absent. 3. Discussion and possible action regarding a recommendation to the City Council regarding modifications to Austin City Code for naming or renaming a park facility or feature. Board Member DiCarlo made a motion to encourage the Austin City Council to incorporate the recommended changes to the Ordinance 20160324-021 in order to make the naming and renaming process more transparent, more efficient, more equitable, and less costly for the Parks and Recreation Department; seconded by Board Member Luca. The motion …
RECOMMENDATION Commission on Seniors Recommendation Number: (20210113-03B): Seating in Parks, Greenbelts, Trails and other Open Spaces WHEREAS, the City of Austin has added to the inventory of parkland, greenbelts, and trails through application of voter- approved bond funds; and WHEREAS, much of the existing parkland, greenbelts, and trails lack adequate benches that would help older adults, children, people with limited mobility and others use and enjoy these green spaces; and WHEREAS, seating encourages walking, socializing and enjoyment of green spaces because there is somewhere to rest; and WHEREAS, the Austin Age Friendly Action Plan includes the following goal and strategy: Goal: Increase access to and utilization of parks, open spaces and public buildings. Strategy: Increase the number of parks and public spaces that are equipped with functional seating at frequent intervals, drinking fountains, shaded resting areas, walkways suitable for wheelchairs/walkers and accessible public restrooms; and WHEREAS, the privately funded "memorial bench" program needs expansion; and WHEREAS, non-profits and businesses may want to work with the Parks and Recreation Department through the Partnership Program to further the City's ability to provide adequate seating in parkland, greenbelts, and trails. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Commission on Seniors recommends the Parks and Recreation Department to emphasize the placement of benches on trails and other developed parkland areas at appropriate intervals based on professional guidance and the design elements of the trail or other green space so older adults and others can enjoy the parkland assets. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Commission on Seniors recommends the Parks Department promote the "Memorial Bench" program and encourage community partners to support expanding the number of benches and related infrastructure available for residents, including older adults. For: Briesemeister, Varteressian, Hauser, Temperley, Spain, De Maria Nicola, Garcia-Pittman, Lugo, Angel, Grampp, Cagle, Bordie, Van Sickle, Jackson, and Kareithi Date of Approval: January 13th, 2021 Record of the vote: 15-0 Motioned By: Varteressian Seconded By: Grampp Against: None Abstain: None Absent: None Attest:
RESOLUTION NO. 20200220-046 WHEREAS, the 351-acre Zilker Metropolitan Park is considered Austin's most- beloved park and is home to a variety of recreation opportunities, facilities and special events for individuals and families; and WHEREAS, the twelve-passenger Zilker Park Eagle miniature train made its first trip in Zilker Park on April 22, 1961, and was operated by Zilker Park Eagle, Inc., which consisted of Larry Miller, B.E. Glenn, and G.L. Folger; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin facilitated a contest to officially name the family amusement train, resulting in the renaming of the Zilker Park Eagle as the Zilker Zephyr; and WHEREAS, in February 1997, the 72-passenger family amusement ride known as the Zilker Zephyr, operated by Texas Special Company, owned by Jason and Abel Rodriguez, began its route around a defined path within Zilker Park; and WHEREAS, in June 2018, Resolution No. 20180628-072 created the Zilker Park Working Group (ZPWG), which recommended to City Council in June 2019 that the City begin a Master Plan process for Zilker Park to include an evaluation of visitor convenience impacts and transportation solutions that will be efficient and convenient for visitors, inferred to include but not be limited to internal park visitor circulation, which may consider the family amusement train ride path; and Page 1 0f 4 WHEREAS, the Zilker Park Master Plan request for qualifications/proposal process is scheduled to be released for formal consideration in Spring 2020; and WHEREAS, in May 2019, a rainstorm caused severe erosion to an embankment supporting part of the train's track, causing it to close temporarily; and WHEREAS, in January 2020, the Parks and Recreation Department was not able to come to an agreement with Texas Special Company for a new professional services contract for the continued operation of the family amusement train known as the Zilker Zephyr; and WHEREAS the family amusement train ride known as the Zilker Zephyr is a beloved part of Zilker Park, enjoyed by thousands of visitors a year; and WHEREAS, the non-profit Austin Parks Foundation has served as a City ofAustin Parks and Recreation Department partner for over 27 years, to enhance public parks, trails and green spaces through volunteerism, innovative programming, advocacy, construction management, and financial support benefiting the Austin community; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin recognizes the service of the Texas Special Company in the operation ofthe family amusement train known as the Zilker Zephyr, has delighted families …
A NEW & IMPROVED Zilker Train 1 01 Intro About APF 02 The Project How we got here 03 Our Approach Where we’re going 04 Operations & Financials Looking to the future 2 About Us Austin Parks Foundation partners with our community to enhance people’s lives by making our public parks, trails and green spaces better through volunteerism, innovative programming, advocacy and financial support. Because of our partnership with the City's Parks & Recreation Dept., and nearly 30 years of proven results, we were contacted to help find an interim solution while Zilker Park undergoes a vision planning process to build a new, long-term vision for the park. 3 Project Leads Ladye Anne Wofford Project management and operations Bobbi Kommenini Business management and operations Katie Robillard, PLA Landscape architecture and project design UT McCombs Business Fellows Business technology The entire Austin Parks Foundation team is committed to the success of this project and is leading project management, operations, fundraising and marketing for the new Zilker Train. Our team brings expertise in park improvements and programming, and nearly 30 years of proven results partnering with the Parks & Recreation Dept. 4 Project Expertise We are bringing together a team of subject matter experts and well-established vendors for a well-rounded project team including: ● The Railway Factory: Custom amusement train manufacturing ● Dunaway Associates: Civil and structural engineering ● Frank & Victor: Brand development ● Steven Smith, McKinsey & Co: Business management and operations ● Stan Li, McKinsey & Co: Customer experience ● Giant Noise: Public Relations 5 THE Project 6 Then The Zilker Train is one of the most beloved family activities in Austin. Since 1961, the train has taken children on an adventure around Zilker Park, past scenic views of Lady Bird Lake, the great lawn and the Zilker Playscape. In 2019, erosion under the tracks caused the Zilker Train to close down permanently. In February 2020, Austin City Council passed a resolution allowing Austin Parks Foundation to work in partnership with the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department to bring back the Zilker Train as quickly and safely as possible. Now 7 Project Timeline Analysis Engineering firm site analysis Topographical survey Structural assessments Operations research Manufacturing research Concession agreement Permitting New route in permitting Brand development Formation of LLC Standard Operating Procedures Fundraising campaign begins Concession agreement finalized Fall 2020 Spring 2021 Launch Fundraising campaign Site improvements complete …
Dougherty Arts Center Replacement Project Preliminary Design Phase Update Boards and Commissions February 2021 Site Map & Context 2 Previous City Council Direction • Butler Shores location approved on 5/9/19 • Council direction to consider site alternatives: on site 1. New DAC & existing PARD Main Office remain 2. New DAC & New PARD Main Office rebuilt on site (unfunded) 3. New DAC on site, existing PARD is removed/relocated elsewhere (unfunded) • Consolidated Arts District Parking (underground, partially unfunded) • Seek alternative financing mechanisms & interest in philanthropy Conceptual development scenario from 2018/2019 planning process 3 Existing PARD Main Office • Constructed 1959, 2-story addition in 1976 • First permanent home for COA Parks Department • High degree of historic integrity • Architect: R. Earl Dillard • Defining features: wide eaves, flat roof, curtain • Eligible for listing on National Register of Historic windows Places Image credits: Austin History Center 4 Recent Stakeholder Engagement • Two Open House Community Meetings • Meeting #1: Oct. 28, 2020 • Meeting #2: Jan. 26, 2021 • (10) Small Group Meetings • Dougherty Arts Center Staff: 11/10/2020 • Painting, Photography, and Drawing Artists and Instructors: 11/19/2020 • Youth Program Instructors and Parents: 12/1/2020 • Gallery Artists: 12/2/2020 • Artist Professional Development Programs: 12/3/2020 • Theater Organizations and Technical Staff: 12/7/2020 • Friends of the Dougherty Arts Center: 12/9/2020 • Ceramics Studio Artists and Instructors: 12/10/2020 • Neighbors to the Dougherty Arts Center: 12/15/2020 • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Arts: 1/7/2021 • Electronic Survey • 221 Participants & 894 Responses • Ongoing Partner Coordination • ZACH Scott Theater • The Trail Foundation • Austin Transportation Dept. 5 Project Mission Statement 6 Site Constraints Map 7 Four Options Key operational criteria and site considerations • Preservation of heritage trees • Relationship to adjacent ZACH • Underground parking solution • Pick-up & drop-off for youth programs • Load-in areas for theater programs • Balancing traffic impact between Toomey Rd. & Riverside Dr. • Preservation of PARD Main Office (1959) • Allowance for possible expansion • Activates parkland & enhance trail access • Civic presence/identity • Back of house areas for kiln yard, etc. 8 • Compact building footprint tucked closely behind PARD Main & ZACH School • One heritage oak impacted • Proposed parking garage sits between ZACH and new DAC, within ZACH lease boundary • PARD Main is retained and renovated/expanded (future scope, unfunded) …
Austin Parks and Recreation Department Barton Creek Greenbelt Reservation Pilot PARB Presentation Amanda Ross, Natural Resources Division Manager February 2020 PILOT PROJECT • Free Reservations Available Online • Park Monitors In Place At 7 Entrances • Reservations Implemented Friday-Sunday • 10:30am-7:30pm 2 GUIDING QUESTIONS • Can managing access provide enjoyable access/nature appreciation for park users? • Can a reservation system be implemented equitably? • Is this a model that could work in this park or other parks? • What are potential benefits and challenges of increasing staffing levels at the Barton Creek Greenbelt? • Are there changes to environmental impacts? 3 DATA REVIEW • All reservation slots FULL at all 8 entrances in August • Reservations available every weekend September and October • 34% of reservations were claimed 4 DATA REVIEW • 4,675 visitors were allowed to enter without a reservation • 1,642 visitors were turned away • 828 dogs were counted • Park Ranger contacts for dogs off-leash were down 35% from the previous year timeframe 5 PUBLIC SURVEY RESULTS In Person Survey (569) Online Survey (376) 54% were visiting for the first time or only visited annually Hiking, nature and swimming reasons for visiting Over 60% visited the site monthly or weekly Hiking, nature and swimming reasons for visiting 78745 most frequent zip code South/south east of Austin Online Reservation System 73% Positive Online Reservation System 21% Positive Ability to Get A Reservation 76% Positive Ability to Get A Reservation 17% Positive More than 50% said a positive was that the system: creates a less crowded space for enjoyment during pandemic 57% Had Difficulty Getting a Reservation Largest Negative of Reservation System Was Advanced Planning Largest Negative of Reservation System Was Advanced Planning 6 TRASH SURVEY Poop Bags Alcohol Containers Plastic Bags Beverage Containers Tobacco Products Small Misc. 45 16 29 21 16 54 FY18 FY20 FY21* FY19 20 5 7 6 8 12 60 18 28 29 17 62 17 10 13 16 7 47 7 CONCLUSIONS • Opportunity exists for more visitor interactions within this large urban preserve. • Given the high percentage of individuals visiting for the first time or annually, there is an opportunity to improve visitor services with more programing. • Many visitors found the online reservation system a burden. 8 RECOMENDATIONS Discontinue Reservation System Park Ambassadors Program for the Barton Creek Greenbelt Lead volunteer activities Tour Guides Encourage Responsible Recreation Entry Career …
RESOLUTION NO. 20200312-041 WHEREAS, Austin is home to nearly 20,000 acres of parks and trails which play an essential role in the city's overall environmental health as well as in the physical and mental health of all Austinites; and WHEREAS, as the City's population continues to grow, these parks and trails are increasingly important to the environmental, health, and mobility needs of the citizens of Austin; and WHEREAS, on March 8, 2018, the City adopted a Strategic Direction, including several goals that specifically depend on having strong and sustainable including Economic Opportunity and Affordability, parks and trails systems, Mobility, Health and Environment, and Culture and Lifelong Learning; and WHEREAS, as areas of the City continue to redevelop with denser populations, the acreage of parks also grows due to the critical benefits provided by the City' s Parkland Dedication Ordinance; and WHEREAS, the Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) is currently these the vast majority of responsible for approximately 20,000 acres of parkland across the city; and the care and maintenance of WHEREAS, as the parks and trails, and the number of people who depend the need for innovative partnerships with local nonprofits increases, on them, becomes increasingly worth exploring; and WHEREAS, PARD is committed to partnerships that align with its overall mission, vision, and commitment to benefit the public through the Austin parks system; and WHEREAS, the Parks and Recreation Department Long Range Plan specifically outlines partnerships as a sustainability strategy for developing, improving, maintaining and programming park spaces; and Page 1 of 3 WHEREAS, PARD works with nonprofit organizations, conservancies, increase community groups, and businesses to enhance and improve parks, recreational and cultural opportunities, and preserve natural areas in Austin; and WHEREAS, the goals of these partnerships are to enhance and expand public use of PARD's grounds and facilities; encourage active recreation and healthy lifestyles; improve environmental stewardship through public participation and education; celebrate arts, culture, and history to build community; and maximize public benefit at minimum taxpayer cost; and WHEREAS, many peer cities such as Dallas, Houston, Chicago, New York City, and others have negotiated partnerships with nonprofit organizations dedicated to the maintenance and stewardship of particular parks; and WHEREAS, nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving parks and open space for the benefit of the community often have the ability to fundraise and other opportunities that municipalities do not have; and WHEREAS, in Austin, some nonprofits have already begun partnering …
Parks and Recreation Department Partnerships Presented by Kimberly McNeeley, CPRP, Director January 26, 2021 Parks and Recreation Board Meeting 1 Objectives • Historical Overview of Partnership Progression • Partnership Benefits • Partnership Portfolio and Pathways 2 History 2011 Public Private Partnership Key Advancement 2012-2014 Research and Development 2012-2014 Relationship Building with existing partners and cultivating new relationships 2015 Public Private Partnership Key Advancement 3 History 2017- 2019 Develop Sophistication and Partnership Continuum 2020 Council Resolution 2021 Partnership Formalization 4 Urban Land Institute Report • • • • Explored concepts for entering into partnerships Coalition of Partners participated Conducted an Advisory Services Panel August 25-30, 2019 Report recommended opportunities for the City to increase nonprofit partnerships 5 Resolution 20200312-041 • • • • • • • LRP outlines partnerships as a sustainable strategy PARD has established relationships with partners Goal to maximize public benefit at minimum taxpayer cost Expresses support for partnerships Directs Department to work with nonprofit partners to establish relationships Deliver status reports Bring partnership agreements to Council 6 Public-Private Partnership Benefits • • • • • • Share significant risks Provide funding resources to supplement or replace general fund/capital investment Enhance community engagement Provides non-monetary resources Capacity to seek out innovative projects and partnership opportunites Fundraising capacity/capabilities not available to government • More flexible procurement processes • Potential to give Department additional funding flexibility and meet more community needs • Advocacy 7 PARD Partnership Configurations i p h s r e n t r a P s n o i t a r u g i f n o C Partnership A| Public-Private Partnership Partnership B| Nonprofit Partner Partnership C | Friends Group, Adopt-A-Park Partnership D | Neighborhoods, National Organizations, Local Businesses, Art Organizations, etc. 8 All Partnership Pathways • Established base criteria for various levels • Consistency for like relationships • Ensure partnership stability and capacity • Ensure alignment with Department mission and goals • Organizational governance/constitution • Demonstrated/required inclusivity • Demonstrated/required transparency • Adherence to Established Community Driven Plans • Defined and Agreement upon Public Benefit 9 Maintenance and Operations Agreement 10 Maintenance and Operations Agreement Plus 11 Maintenance and Operations Agreement Plus 12 13 Project/Program Agreement 14 15 Project/Program Agreement 16 17 Project Agreement In Transition 18 Partnership Pathways PARD PARKners • Parkland Stewardship • Adopt-A-Park • Community Activated Park Projects (CAPP) • Cities Connecting Children to Nature 19 20 Questions? 21
Monetizing PARD Partner Support • Key Performance Indicators review 5-year average KPI 8997:8997 • Monetization Includes Volunteer Hours (Independent Sector) Funding Supports • Funding Supports Differ Annually (Big Swings) Capital improvement Schedules Volunteer Opportunity Record Keeping/Opportunity Value of Private Resources (Non-City Funds)Invested in Parks System Private Investment CIP Expenses per year Annual Percent of Non City Funding per year (Private Investment/CIP Total) Value of Volunteer Hours Non City Funding Sources* Total Private Investment Value of Volunteer Hours Non City Funding Sources* Total Private Investment Value of Volunteer Hours Non City Funding Sources* Total Private Investment Value of Volunteer Hours Non City Funding Sources* Total Private Investment FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 Value of Volunteer Hours Non City Funding Sources * Total Private Investment Total over 5 years $2,507,796 $12,981,086.70 19.31% $3,250,935 $13,825,889.00 23.5% $9,910,220 $16,051,044.34 61.74% $1,380,498 $1,127,298 $1,259,593 $1,991,342 $1,346,172 $8,564,048 $3,834,666 $13,337,191 $17,171,857 $33,518,710.37 51.23% $1,536,503 * COVID Restrictions $23,966,851 $25,503,354 $46,978,613.00 58,344,162.00 $123,355,343.41 54% 47.29%
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD DIRECTOR’S REPORT DATE: February 2021 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT EVENTS: Govalle Neighborhood Park Improvements: The third virtual public meeting is planned for February 24 at 5:30pm. At the meeting, the Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) and Austin Parks Foundation (APF) will share the selected playground that was identified through the online survey results and will discuss improvements to the basketball court and new multipurpose field. The meeting will be held via Zoom and Facebook, and Spanish interpretation will be provided. Citizens are encouraged to register at: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMldeqopjIoHNRs6BQmJ56fpSXVQ3vNo66g. District 3 1 PLANNING UPDATES: Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan: The draft vision plan was open for community feedback via Social Pinpoint through February 22. The partner team led by Community Powered Workshop and Asakura Robinson will present the draft vision plan to the Environmental Commission on March 3. Following the Environmental Commission review, the team will seek approval from the Parks and Recreation Board in April. The draft vision plan is at: https://www.centralwilliamsoncreek.net/. District 3 George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Center Facility Expansion Plan: PARD and the consultant team, Smith & Company with Perkins & Will, continue to refine the cost estimate and draft facility expansion report. The expansion plan is anticipated to begin the approval process in late March and is on the agenda for review by the Design Commission on March 22 and the Parks and Recreation Board on March 23. The draft facility expansion plan is at: https://www.austintexas.gov/CarverATXplanning. District 1 Zilker Metro Park Vision Plan: On February 3, the Capital Contracting Office finalized the contract for the Zilker Park Vision Plan with the consulting firm, Design Workshop. The Department and the consulting team will host the first Technical Advisory Group (TAG) meeting on March 3. The team also expects to start the community engagement process in April and May. The link to the project can be found at: https://www.austintexas.gov/ZilkerVision. District 8 Wilder (4802 S. Congress) Site Plan, appeal by the applicant to staff recommendation of the Parkland Dedication Ordinance: This item was presented to the Parks and Recreation Board on January 26. The Board voted 9 – 1 to recommend to the Planning Commission to deny the applicant's request to pay fee in lieu of land dedication, and upheld staff’s recommendation for the dedication of parkland. The item came before Planning Commission on February 9, and it was postponed to March 9 at the …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD DIRECTOR’S REPORT REVISED DATE: February 2021 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT EVENTS: Govalle Neighborhood Park Improvements: The third virtual public meeting has been rescheduled to March 10 at 5:30pm from February 24 due to the weather emergency and its aftermath. At the meeting, the Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) and Austin Parks Foundation (APF) will share the selected playground that was identified through the online survey results and will discuss improvements to the basketball court and new multipurpose field. The meeting will be held via Zoom and Facebook, and Spanish interpretation will be provided. Citizens are encouraged to register at: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMldeqopjIoHNRs6BQmJ56fpSXVQ3vNo66g. District 3 1 PLANNING UPDATES: Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan: The draft vision plan was open for community feedback via Social Pinpoint through February 22. The partner team led by Community Powered Workshop and Asakura Robinson will present the draft vision plan to the Environmental Commission on March 3. Following the Environmental Commission review, the team will seek approval from the Parks and Recreation Board in April. The draft vision plan is at: https://www.centralwilliamsoncreek.net/. District 3 George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Center Facility Expansion Plan: PARD and the consultant team, Smith & Company with Perkins & Will, continue to refine the cost estimate and draft facility expansion report. The expansion plan is anticipated to begin the approval process in late March and is on the agenda for review by the Design Commission on March 22 and the Parks and Recreation Board on March 23. The draft facility expansion plan is at: https://www.austintexas.gov/CarverATXplanning. District 1 Zilker Metro Park Vision Plan: On February 3, the Capital Contracting Office finalized the contract for the Zilker Park Vision Plan with the consulting firm, Design Workshop. The Department and the consulting team will host the first Technical Advisory Group (TAG) meeting on March 3. The team also expects to start the community engagement process in April and May. The link to the project can be found at: https://www.austintexas.gov/ZilkerVision. District 8 Wilder (4802 S. Congress) Site Plan, appeal by the applicant to staff recommendation of the Parkland Dedication Ordinance: This item was presented to the Parks and Recreation Board on January 26. The Board voted 9 – 1 to recommend to the Planning Commission to deny the applicant's request to pay fee in lieu of land dedication, and upheld staff’s recommendation for the dedication of parkland. The item came before Planning …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20210223-B1 Date: February 23, 202'1 Subject; Support for Commission in parks, regarding seating on Seniors Recommendation 2O210113-03B Number: greenbelts, trails and other open spaces Motioned By: Board Member Sarah Faust Seconded By: Board Member Laura Cottam Sajbel Recommendation: 03B passed placement program. of benches The Parks and Recreat unanimously by the Commission Number: Recommendation 13, 2021 meeting at its January ion Board supports on Seniors 20210 l l 3- regarding . on trails and other developed parkland and promotion of the Memorial Bench Description • Seating • More seating • Board Members of Recommendation intervals at closer to Council in parks and along trails makes parks. and trails . more inviting within sponsorships support efforts to promote the parks and trails· system. provides to users. resting spots for all users. the Memorial and Bench program to increase seating Vote Board Member Faust made a motion to support regardi Number: 20210113-OJB Recommendation trails motion passed DiCarlo and Rinaldi and other open spaces; on a 7-0 vote with Vice Chair Farasat absent. Board Member Cottam Sajbel ng seating in parks, greenbelts, The seconded the motion. and Board Members DePalma, Commission on Seniors For: Chair Lewis; Board Member Luca; Board Member Mason-Mwphy; Board Member Morgan and Board Member Taylor Board Member Cottam Sajbel; Board Member Faust; Against: Abstain: Absent: Vice Chair Farasat, Rinaldi Attest: {Staff or board member can sign] Board Member DePalma, Board Member DiCarlo and Board Member I of l
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Tuesday, February 23, 2021 – 6:00pm MINUTES The Parks and Recreation Board convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, February 23, 2021 via videoconference in Austin, Texas. Chair Lewis called the meeting to order at 6:07pm. Board Members in Attendance: Chair Dawn Lewis, Laura Cottam Sajbel, Sarah Faust, Francoise Luca, Kate Mason-Murphy, Fred Morgan and Kimberly Taylor. Board Members Absent: Vice Chair Romteen Farasat, Richard DePalma, Anna Di Carlo and Nina Rinaldi. Board Member Taylor joined the meeting at approximately 6:12pm. Staff in Attendance: Kimberly McNeeley; Liana Kallivoka; Lucas Massie; Suzanne Piper; Anthony Segura; Kevin Johnson; Amanda Ross; Christine Chute Canul and Sammi Curless. CITIZEN COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Gene Smith – large sized boat permit to use Walsh Boat Landing. A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES The minutes from the regular meeting of January 26, 2021 were approved on Board Member Morgan motion, Board Member Faust second on a 7-0 with Vice Chair Farasat and Board Members DePalma, Di Carlo and Rinaldi absent. B. NEW BUSINESS: PRESENTATION, DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS 1. Discussion and possible action regarding Commission on Seniors Recommendation Number: 20210113-O3B regarding seating in parks, greenbelts, trails and other open spaces. Board Member Faust made a motion to support Commission on Seniors Recommendation Number: 20210113-O3B regarding seating in parks, greenbelts, trails and other open spaces; Board Member Cottam Sajbel seconded the motion. The motion passed on a 7-0 with Vice Chair Farasat and Board Members DePalma, Di Carlo and Rinaldi absent. Page 1 of 2 2. Presentation and discussion regarding update on Zilker Train. Presentation by Colin Wallis and Ladye Anne Wofford of the Austin Parks Foundations. Discussion followed but no action was taken by the Board. 3. Discussion and possible action regarding a recommendation to the City Council of the preferred design scenario for the Dougherty Arts Center Replacement Project. Board Member Morgan made a motion to recommend to the City Council the preferred design scenario (Option 1B) for the Dougherty Arts Center Replacement Program; Board Member Luca seconded the motion. The motion passed on a 6-1 vote with Board Member Faust voting nay and Vice Chair Farasat and Board Members DePalma, Di Carlo and Rinaldi absent. 4. Discussion and possible action regarding Barton Creek Greenbelt reservation pilot program recommendations. Presentation made by Amanda Ross of the Parks and Recreation Department. Discussion followed but no action was taken by the Board. 5. Discussion of partnership …
Versión en español a continuación. Finance Committee of the Parks and Recreation Board Special Called Meeting February 19, 2021 Finance Committee of the Parks and Recreation Board to be held February 19, 2021 with Social Distancing Modifications Public comment will be allowed via telephone; no in-person input will be allowed. All speakers must register in advance (February 18, 2021 by noon). All public comment will occur at the beginning of the meeting. To speak remotely at the February 19, 2021 Finance Committee of the Parks and Recreation Board Meeting, members of the public must: • Call or email the board liaison at 512-974-6716 or sammi.curless@austintexas.gov no later than noon, (the day before the meeting). The information required is the speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, and a telephone number or email address. • Once a request to speak has been made to the board liaison, the information to call on the day of the scheduled meeting will be provided either by email or phone call. • Speakers must call in at least 15 minutes prior to meeting start time in order to speak, late callers will not be accepted and will not be able to speak. • Speakers will be placed in a queue until their time to speak. • Handouts or other information may be emailed to sammi.curless@austintexas.gov by noon the day before the scheduled meeting. This information will be provided to Board and Commission members in advance of the meeting. If this meeting is broadcast live, residents may watch the meeting here: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live • Reunión del Finance Committee of the Parks and Recreation Board February 19, 2021 La junta se llevará con modificaciones de distanciamiento social Se permitirán comentarios públicos por teléfono; no se permitirá ninguna entrada en persona. Todos los oradores deben registrarse con anticipación (February 18, 2021 antes del mediodía). Todos los comentarios públicos se producirán al comienzo de la reunión. Para hablar de forma remota en la reunión, los miembros del público deben: • Llame o envíe un correo electrónico al enlace de la junta en 512-974-6716 or sammi.curless@austintexas.gov a más tardar al mediodía (el día antes de la reunión). Se requiere la siguiente información: nombre del orador, número (s) de artículo sobre el que desean hablar, si están a favor / en contra / neutral, dirección de correo electrónico (opcional) y un número de teléfono (debe ser …
Austin Parks and Recreation Department Financial Services Division PARB Finance Committee Presentation February 19, 2021 FISCAL YEAR 2021 CURRENT YEAR ESTIMATE 2 CURRENT YEAR ESTIMATE (CYE) • The level of revenue, expenditures, or performance data projected to be received, spent, or achieved by the end of the current fiscal period • Conveys financial status to City Council, City management, and residents; presented in monthly fund summaries and Annual Budget Documents • The CYE is a critical factor in determining what a department will need in the future; helps guide decisions and informs the budget process 3 Parks and Recreation Department CURRENT YEAR ESTIMATE EXPENDITURES FY 2021 Operating Budget Current Budget $109,807,598 Year To Date Expenditures through Dec 2020 $8,019,972 Current Year Estimate $104,042,699* Assumptions: • Current status of business operations will continue for remainder of the fiscal year • Projected savings due to vacancies, perm and temp *FY2021 includes required COVID response cost saving 4 Parks and Recreation Department CURRENT YEAR ESTIMATE EXPENDITURES Yearly Comparison of Expenditures Budget Expenditures % Budget Spent FY 2018 $91,747,535 $89,405,355 97% FY 2019 $100,013,335 $98,945,659 99% FY 2020 $106,426,274 $96,084,058* 90% FY2021 Est. $109,807,598 $104,042,699* 95% * includes required COVID response cost saving 5 Parks and Recreation Department CURRENT YEAR ESTIMATE EXAMPLE Barton Springs Pool FY 2021 Operating Budget Current Budget Year To Date Expenditures through Dec 2020 Current Year Estimate FY 2020 Actual FY 2019 Actual $1,427,595 $234,392 $1,127,595 $1,109,467 $1,256,412 6 Parks and Recreation Department CURRENT YEAR ESTIMATE Revenue FY 2021 Revenue Current Budget Year To Date Revenue through Dec 2020 $23,300,178 $4,468,065 Current Year Estimate $15,285,778 Assumptions: • Current status of business operations will continue for remainder of the fiscal year • Projected loses due to COVID-19 related closures 7 Parks and Recreation Department CURRENT YEAR ESTIMATE Revenue Yearly Comparison of Revenue Budget Revenue % Revenue FY 2018 $20,693,173 $20,888,217 101% FY 2019 $22,456,208 $22,438,188 100% FY 2020 $23,306,095 $13,896,162 60% FY2021 Est. $23,300,178 $15,285,778 66% 8 Parks and Recreation Department CURRENT YEAR ESTIMATE EXAMPLE Barton Springs Pool FY 2021 Revenue Current Budget Year To Date Revenue through Dec 2020 Current Year Estimate FY 2020 Actual FY 2019 Actual $2,829,854 ($560) $544,432 $194,496 $3,065,236 9 FISCAL YEAR 2022 DIVISION BUDGET SUBMITTALS 10 The Operating Budget Cycle Mid-Aug: Budget Adoption Oct 1: Start of Fiscal Year May-Jul: Proposed Budget Nov-Dec: Goal Setting Jan-Apr: Forecast Process 11 PARD Approved Budget and Full Time …
MEMORANDUM January 14, 2021 Boards and Commissions Diane Siler, Interim Budget Officer FY 2021-22 Budget Process and Calendar TO: FROM: DATE: SUBJECT: The City continues to be committed to an inclusive and transparent budget development process that incorporates resident and stakeholder feedback into budget considerations and priorities. One important component of this process is input received annually from the City’s various boards and commissions. In FY 2020-21, your input on community needs resulted in significant investments in affordable housing, homelessness response, and public health initiatives. Due to the financial constraints from COVID-19 coupled with the 3.5% property tax revenue cap, the FY 2021-22 budget development process will focus on maintaining existing services. With these constraints in mind, we encourage boards and commissions to provide feedback on the efficiency, equity, and effectiveness of the City’s existing services and programs. As always, the Budget Office is available to discuss these topics in more detail at boards and commissions meetings upon request. As in previous years, the Budget Office will coordinate with City departments to review recommendations passed by boards and commissions. Please note that department budgets are due to the Budget Office on May 7, 2021. Therefore, recommendations should be submitted to the City Clerk no later than April 9, 2021 to provide departments the opportunity to include the recommendation, upon completion of review, into their proposed budget submittal. A template will be created to help Commissions organize and submit their recommendations. For your information, the Council-approved calendar for the FY 2021-22 budget is shown below: • May 7 • July 9 • July 22 • July 27 • July 29 • August 3 • August 11 Department Budgets Due to the Budget Office Presentation of the FY21-22 Proposed Budget to City Council First Budget Hearing City Council Budget Work Session Second Budget Hearing City Council Budget Work Session Tax Rate Hearing and Budget Adoption Additional information, including the FY 2020-21 final survey report, FY 2020-21 board and commission recommendation summaries, and FY 2021-22 budget engagement updates, can be found at the City’s Budget Engagement website at www.austintexas.gov/budget. Should you have any questions, please contact our office at BudgetQA@austintexas.gov. cc: Spencer Cronk, City Manager Nuria Rivera-Vandermyde, Deputy City Manager Assistant City Managers Ed Van Eenoo, Chief Financial Officer, Financial Services Department Department Directors
Versión en español a continuación. Parks and Recreation Board Meeting January 26, 2021 Parks and Recreation Board to be held January 26, 2021 with Social Distancing Modifications Public comment will be allowed via telephone; no in-person input will be allowed. All speakers must register in advance (January 25, 2021 by noon). All public comment will occur at the beginning of the meeting. To speak remotely at the January 26, 2021 Parks and Recreation Board Meeting, members of the public must: • Call or email the board liaison at 512-974-6716 or sammi.curless@austintexas.gov no later than noon, (the day before the meeting). The information required is the speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, and a telephone number or email address. • Once a request to speak has been made to the board liaison, the information to call on the day of the scheduled meeting will be provided either by email or phone call. • Speakers must call in at least 15 minutes prior to meeting start time in order to speak, late callers will not be accepted and will not be able to speak. • Speakers will be placed in a queue until their time to speak. • Handouts or other information may be emailed to sammi.curless@austintexas.gov by noon the day before the scheduled meeting. This information will be provided to Board and Commission members in advance of the meeting. If this meeting is broadcast live, residents may watch the meeting here: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live • Reunión del Parks and Recreation Board January 26, 2021 La junta se llevará con modificaciones de distanciamiento social Se permitirán comentarios públicos por teléfono; no se permitirá ninguna entrada en persona. Todos los oradores deben registrarse con anticipación (January 25, 2021 antes del mediodía). Todos los comentarios públicos se producirán al comienzo de la reunión. Para hablar de forma remota en la reunión, los miembros del público deben: • Llame o envíe un correo electrónico al enlace de la junta en 512-974-6716 or sammi.curless@austintexas.gov a más tardar al mediodía (el día antes de la reunión). Se requiere la siguiente información: nombre del orador, número (s) de artículo sobre el que desean hablar, si están a favor / en contra / neutral, dirección de correo electrónico (opcional) y un número de teléfono (debe ser el número que se utilizará para llamar ). • Una vez que se haya realizado una solicitud para …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD Friday, December 4, 2020 – 1:00pm MINUTES The Parks and Recreation Board convened in a special meeting on Friday, December 4, 2020 via videoconference in Austin, Texas. Chair Lewis called the meeting to order at 1:04pm. Board Members in Attendance: Chair Dawn Lewis; Laura Cottam Sajbel; Richard DePalma; Anna DiCarlo; Sarah Faust; Francoise Luca; Kate Mason-Murphy; Fred Morgan; and Kimberly Taylor. Board Members Absent: Vice Chair Romteen Farasat and Nina Rinaldi. Board Member Mason-Murphy joined the meeting at approximately 1:09pm and Board Member Taylor jointed the meeting at approximately 2:24pm. Staff in Attendance: Kimberly McNeeley; Liana Kallivoka; Lucas Massie; Suzanne Piper; Anthony Segura; Davin Bjornass; Kevin Gomillion; Greg Montes; Patricia Rossett; Ricardo Soliz; Margaret Stenz; Glen Taffinder; John Wepryk and Sammi Curless. CITIZEN COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No general citizen communication. A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES The minutes from the regular meeting of October 27, 2020 were approved as corrected on Board Member DePalma motion, Board Member Cottam Sajbel second on an 8-0 with Vice Chair Farasat and Board Members Rinaldi and Taylor absent. B. NEW BUSINESS: PRESENTATION, DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS Board Member Cottam Sajbel made a motion to recommend Items B2-B5; Board Member Morgan seconded the motion. The motion passed on an 8-0 with Vice Chair Farasat and Board Members Rinaldi and Taylor absent. Following discussion, Board Member DePalma made a motion to recommend Item B1; Board Member Morgan seconded the motion. The motion passed on an 8-0 with Vice Chair Farasat and Board Members Rinaldi and Taylor absent. CONSENT 1. Make a recommendation to the Parks and Recreation Director regarding support for a Parkland Improvement and Maintenance Agreement with Austin Travis County Vietnam Page 1 of 3 Memorial Association and others for the placement of a Vietnam Veterans Memorial adjacent to the Nash Hernandez Building at Holly Shores/Edward Rendon Sr. Park at Festival Beach to recognize the men and women who honorably served from all of Travis County and in particular from East Austin. Public comment from Paul Ancira and Julio Trevino in support of item. 2. Make a recommendation to the Parks and Recreation Director to approve the Temporary Staging Area (9,920 sq. ft.), not to exceed 240 Calendar Days on parkland located at 2407 Canterbury Street (Metz Neighborhood Park). Total mitigation value is $54,441. 3. Make a recommendation to the City Council regarding the renewal of the Local Standards of Care for the …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Parks and Recreation Board Recommendation Number 20210126-B1: Support for City of Austin’s 2020 Legislative Agenda WHEREAS, the City of Austin’s greatest asset is its people who are passionate about their city, committed to its improvement, and determined to see its vision become a reality; and WHEREAS, the percent of registered voters who voted in the past 4 years of city elections exceeded 60 percent; and WHEREAS, an overwhelming majority of registered voters who live in Austin voted for the current Austin City Council representation; and WHEREAS, over 700 Austinites participate and serve on over 60 Boards and Commissions to help shape, and continually improve upon the policies of the City and the lives of its Residents; and WHEREAS, the input provided to the Austin City Council through the City’s Boards and Commissions reflects the will of the community; and WHEREAS, it is the intent of the City of Austin that the legislative agenda guide City staff, in coordination with the City’s strategic partners, in their efforts to advocate on behalf of the City of Austin and its residents; and WHEREAS, each year, the Texas Legislature increasingly attempts to pass legislation that negatively impacts the City through preemption or limiting the ability to advocate; and WHEREAS, the 2019 Legislature strongly considered and almost passed S.B. 29 which would have limited the ability of the City to utilize community advocates to effectively advocate on behalf of the policies created and supported by its residents; and WHEREAS, taxpayers and City residents benefit from and need community advocates as a tool that amplifies their voices before the Legislature, Congress, and regulatory bodies; and WHEREAS, a prohibition on community advocacy equates to censorship of Residents’ voices and is detrimental to a representative democracy where all Austinites and Texans have equal opportunities to voice their opinions. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN HEREBY ADOPTS THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION THAT: • The Parks and Recreation Board endorses the City of Austin’s 2020 Legislative Agenda adopted by the Austin City Council on September 17th, 2020. • The Parks and Recreation Board believes the general principals of the policy and position statements contained in the City of Austin’s state legislative agenda capture the positions of its membership and the community it represents. • The Parks and Recreation Board urges all Austin delegation members of the Texas Legislature to …
87TH STATE LEGISLATIVE AGENDA Intergovernmental Relations Office – Brie L. Franco, Officer TEXAS LEGISLATURE INCREASINGLY FOCUSED ON CITIES Total Bills Introduced Total Bills Passed City-Related bills introduced City-Related bills passed Year 76th-1999 77th-2001 78th-2003 79th-2005 80th-2007 81st-2009 82nd-2011 83rd-2013 84th-2015 85th – 2017 5,813 5,612 5,633 5,512 6,241 7,464 5,938 5,950 6,476 6,800 1,622 1,601 1,384 1,389 1,481 1,459 1,379 1,437 1,329 1,208 1,230+ 1,200+ 1,200+ 1,200+ 1,200+ 1,500+ 1,500+ 1,900+ 1,900+ 2,500+ 86th – 2019 7,324 1,429 2,300+ 130+ 150+ 110+ 105+ 120+ 120+ 160+ 220+ 220+ 294 338 • 54 % more City- related bills were passed between 2015 and 2019 • 182 % more City – related bills were passed between 2009 and 2019 10/22/2020 87th Legislative Agenda 2 LEGISLATIVE SESSION: IGRO ROLE In the 86th session • 3,970 Bills/JR’s were filed in last 10 business days before filing deadline, March 8th. (54%). • 7,324 bills read and analyzed by IGRO. • Over 2,500 bills were determined by IGRO to affect cities. • 1,296 Bills/JR’s required analysis/action by departments and IGRO. 10/22/2020 87th Legislative Agenda 3 TREND: ANTI-CITY TONE: GOVERNOR ABBOTT "As opposed to the state having to take multiple rifle- shot approaches at overriding local regulations, I think a broad-based law by the state of Texas that says across the board, the state is going to pre-empt local regulations, is a superior approach“ * – Governor Greg Abbott, March 21, 2017 *Source: “Abbott wants "broad-based law" that pre-empts local regulations” Texas Tribune, March 21, 2017 Governor Greg Abbott in 2017 10/22/2020 87th Legislative Agenda 4 TREND: ANTI-CITY LEGISLATION: POST 85TH SPECIAL SESSION "Our cities are still controlled by Democrats…And where do we have all our problems in America? Not at the state level run by Republicans, but in our cities that are mostly controlled by Democrat mayors and Democrat city council men and women. That's where you see liberal policies. That's where you see high taxes. That's where you see street crime." * -Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, 2017 *Source: “Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick blames city governments for "all our problems in America" Texas Tribune, AUG. 4, 2017 10/22/2020 87th Legislative Agenda 5 Lt Governor Dan Patrick in 2016. Photo by Gage Skidmore. TREND: ANTI-CITY TONE: POST 86TH SESSION “Any mayor, county judge that was dumb ass enough to come meet with me, I told them with great clarity, my goal is for this to be the …
RESOLUTION NO. 20200917-017 BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: Council adopts the City's Legislative Program for the 87 th Texas Legislative Session as set forth in the attached Exhibit A. ADOPTED: September 17,2020 ATTEST:?1/ / J U Jannette S. Goodall City Clerk Page 1 of 1 Placeholder: City of Austin skyline CITY OF AUSTIN 2021 STATE LEGISLATIVE AGENDA 87TH LEGISLATURE MAYOR & COUNCIL Message fronn the Mayor: The City of Austin looks forward to working with the 87th Legislature to best meet the needs and concerns of Austin residents. In this program you will find the City of Austin's 2021 State Legislative Agenda approved by our City Council. The result of an inclusive process, we believe that this agenda best represents the needs and concerns of Austin residents. It is our intent that this agenda guide our city staff, in coordination with our strategic partners, in their efforts to advocate on behalf of the City of Austin and its residents. We look forward to working together on policies that make Texas, and Texas cities, greater. Mayor Steve Adler Mayor Pro Tem Delia Garza, District 2 Natasha Harper-Madison, District 1 Sabino "Pio" Renteria, District 3 Greg Casar, District 4 Ann Kitchen, District 5 Jimmy Flannigan, District 6 Leslie Pool, District 7 Paige Ellis, District 8 Kathie Tovo, District 9 Alison Alter, District 10 City Manager Spencer Cronk PLACEHOLDER: COUNCIL PICTURE 11Page PLACEHOLDER: GRAPHIC ABOUT AUSTIN AUSTIN AT A GLANCE 21Pa<re2-1 PLACEHOLDER: TEXAS CAPITOL GENERAL LEGISLATIVE PRINCIPLES The City of Austin's 87th State Legislative Agenda reflects the City's priorities for efficient and cost-effective government services that foster Austin's prosperity, sustainability, and safety. The City of Austin supports legislation that enhances City services, reduces the cost of providing services, prioritizes a prosperous business climate, and improves the quality of life for its residents. The City of Austin opposes legislation that strips Austin residents of their right to self-governance, increases taxpayer costs for City services that residents rely on, undermines the principle of home rule, negatively affects the City's financial ability to act in the best interest of its residents, or imposes on Austin taxpayers the burden of paying for State mandates or collecting revenues for the State. To that end, the City has adopted certain legislative priorities and authorizes the City Manager and the City's professional Intergovernmental Relations team to protect interests critical to preserving the principle …
Austin Parks and Recreation Department Appeal of the Parkland Dedication Requirements for 4802 S. Congress (SP-2019-0600C) Parks and Recreation Board January 2021 Scott Grantham Principal Planner Parks and Recreation Department 1 Overview • Consider an Appeal by an Applicant of Director’s Denial of Request to Pay Fee in Lieu • PARD is requiring land dedication. The developer prefers to pay fee in lieu. • PARD Recommendation to Parks and Recreation Board and Planning Commission: Support PARD's request for land dedication and deny the applicant’s request, to pay fee in lieu (of land dedication) for this site plan. • Code Context • Site Plan Context • Application of Code Criteria • Other Factors • Recommendation to Planning Commission 2 Code Context • City Code 25-1-605 (B) lists criteria for PARD’s requirement to dedicate parkland vs. pay fee in lieu. • City Code 25-1-605 (F) indicates that PARD’s decision may be appealed to the Land Use Commission, and that PARD shall first present the case to the Parks and Recreation Board for a recommendation. • Applicant has appealed the decision. 3 3 4 4 5 5 6 6 • Green outline roughly shows PARD’s requirement for Parkland, as a Fee Simple Dedication. • Blue outline roughly shows PARD’s requirement for a Public Access Easement 7 7 Application of Code Criteria City Code 25-1-605 (B) 1. 2. 3. has sufficient acreage to meet the standards for dedicated parkland is located within the Deficient Park Area Map; is adjacent to existing parkland; 4. under the Parkland Dedication Operating Procedures; is needed to address a critical need for parkland or to remedy a deficiency identified by the Deficient Park Area Map; or 5. would provide increased connectivity with existing or planned parks or recreational amenities. Based on these criteria, PARD must require land, and does not have the authority to accept fee in lieu. 8 8 Application of Code Criteria City Code 25-1-603 (A) Standards for Dedicated Parkland “…land to be dedicated must meet the requirements of this subsection.” (1) Parkland must be easily accessible to the public and open to public view so as to benefit area residents, enhance the visual character of the City, protect public safety, and minimize conflicts with adjacent land uses. (2) On-street and off-street connections between residential neighborhoods shall be provided, wherever possible, to provide reasonable access to parks and open space areas. 9 9 Application of Code Criteria …
Grantham, Scott From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: Mike McHone <mchone1234@sbcglobal.net> Thursday, December 3, 2020 10:47 AM Grantham, Scott Scott, Randy; 'Mike McHone' 4802 S Congress; SP 2019-0600 C Follow Up Flag: Flag Status: Follow up Flagged *** External Email - Exercise Caution *** Dear Mr. Grantham, This email shall serve as the required notification of the above project’s request for the payment of a “Fee-in-Lieu” payment as compliance with the Parkland Dedication requirement. This site is very irregular with most of the property located behind existing lots on Congress Ave. and adjacent to the existing Williamson Creek Greenbelt. This project’s frontage on Congress is limited and this is the only buildable area. LDC 25-1-603 (A) (1) & (2) requires public accessibility and public view; and on and off street connections between residential neighborhoods to be provided whenever possible to provide reasonable access. This project cannot meet these requirements and is therefore requesting the fee-in-lieu option as provided by the LDC. Best regards, Mike McHone, authorized agent CAUTION: This email was received at the City of Austin, from an EXTERNAL source. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious and/or phishing email, please forward this email to cybersecurity@austintexas.gov. 1
Parks and Recreation Department 200 South Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704 January 8, 2021 Michael McHone Authorized Agent mchone1234@sbcglobal.net Dear Mr. McHone: The Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) is in receipt of your December 3, 2020 request to pay a fee in lieu of dedicating parkland in connection with the pending site plan for the property located at 4802 S. Congress Avenue (Wilder SP-2019-0600C) (the “Site Plan”) This letter serves as a denial of your request. City Code § 25-1-605 governs the Parks and Recreation Department’s (PARD) determination of whether to allow payment in fee in lieu of the dedication of parkland. Specifically, (A) The director [of PARD] may require or allow a subdivision or site plan applicant to deposit with the City a fee in-lieu of parkland dedication under Section 25-1-605 (Dedication of Parkland) if: (1) the director determines that payment of a fee in-lieu of dedication is justified under the criteria in Subsection (B) of this section; and (2) the following additional requirements are met: (a) less than six acres is required to be dedicated under Section 25-1-602 (Dedication of Parkland); or (b) the land available for dedication does not comply with the standards for dedication under Section 25-1-603 (Standards for Dedicated Parkland). Because the land to be dedicated is less than six acres, the Site Plan satisfies the requirements of § 25-1-605(A). Therefore, the question is whether it also satisfies the requirements of § 25-1- 605(B): (B) In determining whether to require dedication of land under Section 25-1- 602 (Dedication of Parkland) or allow payment of a fee in-lieu of dedication under this section, the director shall consider whether the subdivision or site plan: (1) is located within the Deficient Park Area Map; The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Parks and Recreation Department 200 South Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704 (2) is adjacent to existing parkland; (3) has sufficient acreage to meet the standards for dedicated parkland under the Parkland Dedication Operating Procedures; (4) is needed to address a critical need for parkland or to remedy a deficiency identified by the Deficient Park Area Map; or (5) would provide increased connectivity with existing or planned parks or recreational amenities. With regard to the Site Plan, the answer to each of these criteria is “yes”: the Site Plan …
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 ARTICLE 4. - APPROVAL OF A NAME FOR A PUBLIC FACILITY OR PROPERTY. § 14-1-31 - DEFINITIONS. In this article: (1) FACILITY includes a City building, structure, or other facility directly used by the public, excluding a police facility under Section 14-1-35 (Procedure for Naming a Police Facility ) and a park facility under Section 14-1-36 (Requirement for Naming or Renaming a Park Facility ). (2) DIRECTOR means the director of the Public Works Department. Source: 1992 Code Section 15-7-18; Ord. 031204-12; Ord. 031211-11; Ord. No. 20160324-021, Pt. 1, 4-4- 16 . § 14-1-32 - NAMING POLICY. (A) A feature in a facility may be dedicated to a person to recognize a valuable contribution to the community without naming or renaming the facility in which the feature is located. A plaque recognizing a deserving person may be placed in a facility without naming or renaming the facility in which the plaque is placed. (B) A facility may be named for an individual, living, or dead, or something other than an individual. A facility may be named for an individual only if the individual has provided creditable service to the community and to the City. (C) A facility named for an individual may not be renamed. (D) Naming or renaming a facility must follow the procedure set forth in this article. The renaming of a facility must be initiated by the council or the city manager. (E) If the city has financed the facility with the proceeds of obligations, the interest on which is excludable from gross income for federal income tax purposes, the city may reject a name to preserve the exemption from federal income taxation of the interest on the proceeds of the obligations. Source: 1992 Code Section 15-7-19; Ord. 031204-12; Ord. 031211-11; Ord. No. 20160324-021, Pt. 1, 4-4- 16 . § 14-1-33 - PROCEDURE FOR NAMING A FACILITY. (A) A person may submit a suggestion for naming a facility or endorse a previously submitted suggestion. A suggestion or endorsement must be submitted to the director as provided by this section. The director may promulgate forms for this purpose. (B) A suggestion for naming a facility must include: 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 …
Naming Timeline Step 1: PARD receives naming application, or construction on a new building begins. Step 2: PARD acknowledges application receipt and confirms whether the application package is complete or not (PARD must include fee and estimated cost of renaming with confirmation ). If application packet is complete, then… If application packet is incomplete, then… Step 3: Within five days, PARD informs PARB of the application and proposed name. Step 3: Applicant has 90 additional days to complete application or it expires. It can be resubmitted anytime and the timeline starts over at Step 1. Step 4: 90-day clock begins for PARD to complete community engagement and prepare presentation for Board approval. Step 5: Within 30 days of Step 4, PARD informs applicant of naming/renaming cost and establishes commitment for the payment from the applicant. Step 6: After the completed 90-day community engagement, PARD director receives naming nominations, endorsements, and comments. The PARD director has 30 days to review the application and make a recommendation to the PARB chair. Step 7: The Public Hearing is set within the next 90 days. Step 8: PARB hosts the Public Hearing. Step 9: Within 60 days from the Public Hearing PARB submits recommendation to approve or deny the application to Council.
Parks and Recreation Board Recommendation Recommendation Number: 20210126 B3: Recommended Changes to the Naming and Renaming Ordinance 20160324-021 WHEREAS, the current process and timeline for naming or renaming of a park or park facility has caused confusion among applicants and community members interested in providing feedback on a proposed name or name change; and WHEREAS, the current naming/renaming ordinance could greatly benefit in clarity of language, transparency, and process for both Parks and Recreation Department staff and Austin residents; and WHEREAS, the current naming and renaming process has not previously considered equal representation across the city by considering racial, ethnic, gender, and economic disparities in the naming or renaming of a park, park facility, or park feature; and WHEREAS, naming and renaming parks and park facilities after individuals has been a cost and staffing burden to the Parks and Recreation Department; and WHEREAS, parks and park facilities named after geographical or historical areas are long-term and can aid in directional knowledge of the city; and WHEREAS, the cost associated with renaming a park, park facility, or park feature should be recovered from the applicants to relieve that cost from the Parks and Recreation Department; and WHEREAS, community engagement during a proposed naming or renaming should be conducted to accommodate wide public participation and be easy for staff to facilitate. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Parks and Recreation Board encourages the Austin City Council to incorporate the recommended changes to the Ordinance 20160324-021 in order to make the naming and renaming process more transparent, more efficient, more equitable, and less costly for the Parks and Recreation Department. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: (Unanimous on a 7-0 vote, 4-3 vote with names of those voting no listed) Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
Annual Internal Review This report covers the time period of 1/1/2020 to 12/31/2020 (Please note that this is to be completed by the Chair of the board, commission or committee.) Land, Facilities and Programs Committee of the Parks and Recreation Board The Land, Facilities and Programs Committee mission statement (per the City Code) is: to serve in an advisory capacity to the full board on issues of development and programs of the public parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities and the general welfare of the parks, playgrounds and recreational facilities. 1. Describe the board’s actions supporting their mission during the previous calendar year. Address all elements of the board’s mission statement as provided in the relevant sections of the City Code. 2020 Overview The Land, Facilities, and Program Committee of the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Board met a total of two times in 2020. The committee met in June, and November. January 2020 LFPC was cancelled due to lack of quorum. February 2020 LFPC was cancelled due to lack of agenda items March 2020 LFPC was cancelled due to lack of agenda items. April 2020 LFCP was cancelled due to lack of agenda items. May 2020 LFPC was cancelled due to lack of quorum. June 2020 LFPC made a recommendation to the Park and Recreation Board for approval to recommend to the City Council for adoption of the Master Plan for John Trevino Jr. Metropolitan Park at Morrison Ranch. Action Taken: A motion to approve this item on the non-consent agenda and move it to full Board for review carried 4 members to approve with Committee Member Farasat absent. LFPC made a recommendation to the Park and Recreation Board for approval to recommend to the City Council regarding an amendment to the Goodnight Rach Planned Unit Development as it pertains to parkland Action Taken: A motion to approve this item on the non-consent agenda and move it to the full Board for review carried 4 members to approve with Committee Member Farasat absent. July 2020 No LFPC meeting traditionally scheduled during the month of July. August 2020 LFCP was cancelled due to lack of agenda items. September 2020 LFCP was cancelled due to lack of agenda items. October 2020 LFPC was cancelled due to lack of agenda items. November 2020 LFPC made a recommendation to the Parks and Recreation Board to support a Parkland Improvement and Maintenance Agreement with …
Annual Internal Review This report covers the time period of 1/1/2020 to 12/31/2020 (Please note that this is to be completed by the Chair of the board, commission or committee.) Contracts and Concessions Committee of the Parks and Recreation Board The Contracts and Concessions Committee mission statement (per the City Code) is: to serve in an advisory capacity to the full board on issues related to contracts managed by the Parks and Recreation Department, not contracts managed by other departments that would ordinarily go to the City Council for approval because they exceed the dollar amount of the City Manager's authority, or are interlocal agreements. The Committee shall serve in an advisory capacity to the full board with respect to agreements covered by §8-1-62 of the City Code. The Committee may serve in an advisory capacity to the board's representative under §8-1-74 of the City Code with respect to boating concessions. 1. Describe the board’s actions supporting their mission during the previous calendar year. Address all elements of the board’s mission statement as provided in the relevant sections of the City Code. 2020 Overview The Contracts and Concessions Committee (CCC) of the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Board met a total of five times in 2020. The committee met in January, June, August, September and November. January 2020 Discussion on Draft Scope of Work for Request for Proposals (RFP) for a Boating Concession on Lady Bird Lake. Committee members provided feedback on the draft scope of work as it relates to RFP response. Make a recommendation to the Parks and Recreation Board to recommend to the City Council the execution of Amendment No 1. to the Parkland Improvement, Management and Operations Agreement for Republic Square Park between the City, Austin Parks Foundation, and the Downtown Austin Parks, LLC. Action Taken: A motion to approve moving this item forward to the full Parks and Recreation Board for action as a non-consent agenda item was passed on a Page 1 of 4 vote of 3-0 with Committee Members DePalma and DiCarlo absent. February 2020 CCC was cancelled due to lack of agenda items. March 2020 CCC was cancelled due to lack of agenda items. April 2020 CCC was cancelled due to lack of agenda items. May 2020 CCC was cancelled due to lack of agenda items. June 2020 Presentation, discussion and possible action regarding a recommendation to the Parks and Recreation …
Parks and Recreation Department Partnerships Presented by Kimberly McNeeley, CPRP, Director January 26, 2021 Parks and Recreation Board Meeting 1 Objectives • Historical Overview of Partnership Progression • Partnership Benefits • Partnership Portfolio and Pathways 2 History 2011 Public Private Partnership Key Advancement 2012-2014 Research and Development 2012-2014 Relationship Building with existing partners and cultivating new relationships 2015 Public Private Partnership Key Advancement 3 History 2017- 2019 Develop Sophistication and Partnership Continuum 2020 Council Resolution 2021 Partnership Formalization 4 Urban Land Institute Report • • • • Explored concepts for entering into partnerships Coalition of Partners participated Conducted an Advisory Services Panel August 25-30, 2019 Report recommended opportunities for the City to increase nonprofit partnerships 5 Resolution 20200312-041 • • • • • • • LRP outlines partnerships as a sustainable strategy PARD has established relationships with partners Goal to maximize public benefit at minimum taxpayer cost Expresses support for partnerships Directs Department to work with nonprofit partners to establish relationships Deliver status reports Bring partnership agreements to Council 6 Public-Private Partnership Benefits • • • • • • Share significant risks Provide funding resources to supplement or replace general fund/capital investment Enhance community engagement Provides non-monetary resources Capacity to seek out innovative projects and partnership opportunites Fundraising capacity/capabilities not available to government • More flexible procurement processes • Potential to give Department additional funding flexibility and meet more community needs • Advocacy 7 PARD Partnership Configurations i p h s r e n t r a P s n o i t a r u g i f n o C Partnership A| Public-Private Partnership Partnership B| Nonprofit Partner Partnership C | Friends Group, Adopt-A-Park Partnership D | Neighborhoods, National Organizations, Local Businesses, Art Organizations, etc. 8 All Partnership Pathways • Established base criteria for various levels • Consistency for like relationships • Ensure partnership stability and capacity • Ensure alignment with Department mission and goals • Organizational governance/constitution • Demonstrated/required inclusivity • Demonstrated/required transparency • Adherence to Established Community Driven Plans • Defined and Agreement upon Public Benefit 9 Maintenance and Operations Agreement 10 Maintenance and Operations Agreement Plus 11 Maintenance and Operations Agreement Plus 12 13 Project/Program Agreement 14 15 Project/Program Agreement 16 17 Project Agreement In Transition 18 Partnership Pathways PARD PARKners • Parkland Stewardship • Adopt-A-Park • Community Activated Park Projects (CAPP) • Cities Connecting Children to Nature 19 20 Questions? 21
RESOLUTION NO. 20200312-041 WHEREAS, Austin is home to nearly 20,000 acres of parks and trails which play an essential role in the city's overall environmental health as well as in the physical and mental health of all Austinites; and WHEREAS, as the City's population continues to grow, these parks and trails are increasingly important to the environmental, health, and mobility needs of the citizens of Austin; and WHEREAS, on March 8, 2018, the City adopted a Strategic Direction, including several goals that specifically depend on having strong and sustainable including Economic Opportunity and Affordability, parks and trails systems, Mobility, Health and Environment, and Culture and Lifelong Learning; and WHEREAS, as areas of the City continue to redevelop with denser populations, the acreage of parks also grows due to the critical benefits provided by the City' s Parkland Dedication Ordinance; and WHEREAS, the Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) is currently these the vast majority of responsible for approximately 20,000 acres of parkland across the city; and the care and maintenance of WHEREAS, as the parks and trails, and the number of people who depend the need for innovative partnerships with local nonprofits increases, on them, becomes increasingly worth exploring; and WHEREAS, PARD is committed to partnerships that align with its overall mission, vision, and commitment to benefit the public through the Austin parks system; and WHEREAS, the Parks and Recreation Department Long Range Plan specifically outlines partnerships as a sustainability strategy for developing, improving, maintaining and programming park spaces; and Page 1 of 3 WHEREAS, PARD works with nonprofit organizations, conservancies, increase community groups, and businesses to enhance and improve parks, recreational and cultural opportunities, and preserve natural areas in Austin; and WHEREAS, the goals of these partnerships are to enhance and expand public use of PARD's grounds and facilities; encourage active recreation and healthy lifestyles; improve environmental stewardship through public participation and education; celebrate arts, culture, and history to build community; and maximize public benefit at minimum taxpayer cost; and WHEREAS, many peer cities such as Dallas, Houston, Chicago, New York City, and others have negotiated partnerships with nonprofit organizations dedicated to the maintenance and stewardship of particular parks; and WHEREAS, nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving parks and open space for the benefit of the community often have the ability to fundraise and other opportunities that municipalities do not have; and WHEREAS, in Austin, some nonprofits have already begun partnering …
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD DIRECTOR’S REPORT DATE: January 2021 PLANNING UPDATES: Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan: Powered Workshop and Asakura Robinson hosted the final community-wide meeting to present the draft vision plan. The draft vision design is available on the project’s Social Pinpoint. Community feedback is requested, with comments on Social Pinpoint and is open from January 20 through February 17. The plan is tentatively scheduled for Environmental Commission review and Parks and Recreation Board approval in March. District 3 https://cpworkshop.mysocialpinpoint.com/creek-idea-cards/central-williamson-creek-landing-page https://www.centralwilliamsoncreek.net/ On December 17, the partner team led by Community George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Center Facility Expansion Plan: engagement event for the Facility Expansion Plan occurred on November 21. Currently, the Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) and the consultant team, Smith & Company with Perkins & Will, are making refinements to the building and site plan. Next steps include a phasing and implementation plan. The facility expansion plan is anticipated to begin the approval and adoption process in spring 2021. District 1 https://www.austintexas.gov/CarverATXplanning https://www.speakupaustin.org/carveratx-planning/forum_topics/community-meeting-3 The final A preliminary community survey to gather feedback on existing issues in Zilker Metro Park Vision Plan: the park, as well as needed improvements, is available on the project's website and publicinput.com. The planning team will continue to promote the survey through the first part of 2021. District 8 https://www.austintexas.gov/ZilkerVision https://publicinput.com/ZilkerVision Parkland Acquisitions – upcoming January 27, 2021 City Council Meeting • 3701 Clawson Road, approximately 3.016 acres of land out of and a part of Block 21, Theodore Low Heights Subdivision, an addition to the City of Austin recorded in Volume 445, Page 581, Deed Records, Travis County, Texas, located at 3701 Clawson Road, Austin, Texas from Vista Service Corporation, a Texas corporation, for a total amount not to exceed $2,290,485 including closing costs. PARD is funding this proposed acquisition through fees in lieu collected under the parkland dedication ordinance and the 2018 Bond. The site is gently sloped and wooded with West Bouldin Creek running through. The acquisition will be a neighborhood park in District 5 with a service area extending to District 3. District 5 February 18, 2021 City Council Meeting • 1212 W Slaughter Lane, proposed acquisition is for park and recreation purposes. The property is situated adjacent to Casey Elementary School. It is part of a partnership with the Housing and 1 Planning Department (HPD) to provide a park within walking distance to all residents, …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Parks and Recreation Board Recommendation Number 20210126-B1: Support for City of Austin’s 2020 Legislative Agenda WHEREAS, the City of Austin’s greatest asset is its people who are passionate about their city, committed to its improvement, and determined to see its vision become a reality; and WHEREAS, the percent of registered voters who voted in the past 4 years of city elections exceeded 60 percent; and WHEREAS, an overwhelming majority of registered voters who live in Austin voted for the current Austin City Council representation; and WHEREAS, over 700 Austinites participate and serve on over 60 Boards and Commissions to help shape, and continually improve upon the policies of the City and the lives of its Residents; and WHEREAS, the input provided to the Austin City Council through the City’s Boards and Commissions reflects the will of the community; and WHEREAS, it is the intent of the City of Austin that the legislative agenda guide City staff, in coordination with the City’s strategic partners, in their efforts to advocate on behalf of the City of Austin and its residents; and WHEREAS, each year, the Texas Legislature increasingly attempts to pass legislation that negatively impacts the City through preemption or limiting the ability to advocate; and WHEREAS, the 2019 Legislature strongly considered and almost passed S.B. 29 which would have limited the ability of the City to utilize community advocates to effectively advocate on behalf of the policies created and supported by its residents; and WHEREAS, taxpayers and City residents benefit from and need community advocates as a tool that amplifies their voices before the Legislature, Congress, and regulatory bodies; and WHEREAS, a prohibition on community advocacy equates to censorship of Residents’ voices and is detrimental to a representative democracy where all Austinites and Texans have equal opportunities to voice their opinions.
