12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 9 - Public Comment Part 1 — original pdf

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June 5, 2025 RE: 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Chair Hempel and Planning Commissioners, My husband and I are residents of the Old West Austin neighborhood and members of the Old West Austin Neighborhood Association (OWANA). I am writing to state OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed closure of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). As neighborhood residents we are also opposed to closure of the street, and the application also lacks support from all adjacent property owners. Sayers Street is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe traffic circulation away from pedestrian-oriented neighborhood streets like 5th, 6th, and Walsh. The claim that it is under-utilized or orphaned is simply false. For example, Walsh Ventures 2, LLC has a long-standing business that depends on Sayers for large vehicle access that will be cut off if the street is closed. Additionally, their site plan for a mixed-use development with 25 affordable housing units depends on the continued public use of Sayers for access, loading, garage entry, and utility placement. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the City of Austin's stated housing and mobility goals. We feel that a private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 91 of 100It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Kathleen Kerr & Danny Roth 1502 W 9th Street Austin, TX 78703 k.m.kerr1@gmail.com 512-797-0179 cc:christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov       ella.garcia@austintexas.gov     zoning@owana.org 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 92 of 100Bueckert, Christopher From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: Butch Lawson <collectedletters57@gmail.com> Friday, June 6, 2025 8:45 AM Bueckert, Christopher; Garcia, Ella zoning@owana.org 2024-128390 LM - 1114 West 5th Street Some people who received this message don't often get email from collectedletters57@gmail.com. Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution My name is Donald Lawson. I live at 1615 W. 9 1/2 St. Austin, Tx. 78703 My email is collectedletters57@gmail.com My phone number is 512.965.3084 Dear Chair Hempel and Planning Commissioners, I write to express Owana's continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and gives access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land - it's an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It's not within a private applicant's authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. I urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. 1 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 93 of 100 Sincerely, Donald Lawson Registered Voter and Resident of Travis County -- BUTCH LAWSON collected letters celebrating 40 years (512) 965-3084 CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov". 2 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 94 of 100 June 5th 2025 RE: 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, We write to express OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Ashley Endler 1215 Castle Hill St Austin, TX 78703 Ashendler@gmail.com 512-897-8317 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 95 of 100 6 June 2025 RE: 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, We write to express OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Kathleen Deaver 606 Highland Ave. Austin, TX 78703 512.709.7818 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 96 of 100 From the Home of Evelyn M. Fujimoto 6 June 2025 Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners Austin, Texas Subject: 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, I live on W 6th St between Oakland and Powell St. I walk/drive on W 5th St and W 6th St on an almost daily basis. The proposed right of way vacation under discussion would have a material detrimental impact on my immediate community. We write to express OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. United States of America 1501 W. 6th Street Villa West E3 Austin, Texas 78703 +1 832 648 0623 emarimoto@yahoo.com 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 97 of 100 Planning Commissioners Page 2 Evelyn M. Fujimoto It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Evelyn Fujimoto 1501 W. 6th St., Austin, Texas 78703 emarimoto@yahoo.com +1.832.648.0623 cc: christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov cc: ella.garcia@austintexas.gov cc: OWANA/Old West Austin Neighborhood Association - zoning@owana.org United States of America 1501 W. 6th Street Villa West E3 Austin, Texas 78703 +1 832 648 0623 emarimoto@yahoo.com 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 98 of 100 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 99 of 100June 6, 2025 RE: 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, I write to express OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. This sets a terrible precedent. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sayers Street provides an important circulation street and keeps traffic off of the already crowded 5th and 6th Streets. It has played this important role for many, many years and it is not appropriate to vacate it for one developer’s benefit, to the detriment of many. Sincerely, Lynne M. Rupp lrupp@swbell.net 1115 W. 11th St. Unit 1 Austin, TX 78703 512-431-0973 cc:christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov ella.garcia@austintexas.gov zoning@owana.org 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 910 of 100 June 6, 2025 RE: 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, We write to express OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Elina Nasser 1102 Lorrain Street Austin, TX 78703 ellunasser@gmail.com 562-506-4982 cc:christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov ella.garcia@austintexas.gov zoning@owana.org 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 911 of 100 6/5/2025 RE: 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, We write to express OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Mike Banghart 800 Winflo Drive Austin, TX 78703 mb@gte.net 512-423-5387 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 912 of 100 June 6, 2025 RE: 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, I am writing to express OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Steve Amos Chair Old West Austin Neighborhood Association 1607 Waterston Avenue Austin, TX 78703 512 970 7443 cc:christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov ella.garcia@austintexas.gov zoning@owana.org 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 913 of 100 June 6, 2025 RE: 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Chair Hempel and Planning Commissioners, We live at 700 Baylor, the next block up from Sayers Street that we understand has been requested for closure by a private entity. We have lived here for 40 and 50 years respectively, have nearly daily walked and driven down the parts of Baylor and 5th Streets that adjoin Sayers that whole time, seeing firsthand how much it is used by existing neighboring properties. We join all of OWANA in opposing the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. In addition, we understand that The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. We join OWANA in supporting this development, because of the 25 affordable housing units it will provide. We have watched our neighborhood’s long-term housing decrease significantly over the years as short-term rentals have overtaken much of the formerly affordable housing stock, and we adamantly oppose this requested street closure that would impede a project that would so significantly help increase longterm housing in the neighborhood. Closing Sayers would directly undermine the project’s progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Daniel Traverso and Laura Smith Daniel Traverso and Laura Smith 700 Baylor Street Austin, TX 78703 Lsmith78703@gmail.com 512-507-6987 cc:christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 914 of 100  ella.garcia@austintexas.gov zoning@owana.org 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 915 of 100June 6, 2025 RE: 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, I write to express my continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. I urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Margaret Sullivan 1718 Palma Plz Austin, TX 78703 margsull512@gmail.com 512-431-1588 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 916 of 100 June 6, 2025 RE: 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, We write to express OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land; it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Jonathan and Sarah Meneses 1610 W 8th St Austin, TX 78703 jonathan.m.meneses@gmail.com 630-408-6691 cc:christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov ella.garcia@austintexas.gov zoning@owana.org 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 917 of 100 Bueckert, Christopher From: Sent: To: Subject: Jeffrey Howell <jhowell181@gmail.com> Friday, June 6, 2025 3:16 PM Bueckert, Christopher Fwd: Sayers Street You don't often get email from jhowell181@gmail.com. Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Apologies for the error on your name and email on my first attempt to send my Planning Commission letter to you! ---------- Forwarded message --------- From: Jeffrey Howell <jhowell181@gmail.com> Date: Fri, Jun 6, 2025, 2:04 PM Subject: Sayers Street <ella.garcia@austintexas.gov>, <zoning@owana.org> Mr. Bueckner: Please share my letter (below) with the Planning Commission prior to its meeting about Sayers Street. You may call me if you have any question. Thank you. Jeffrey Howell JEFFREY HOWELL 614 PRESSLER STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS 78703 Jhowell181@gmail.com 505-670-2943 June 6, 2025 Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, 1 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 918 of 100 I write to add my voice to the many opposing the proposed vacation of the active public right-of- way at Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). The claim that it is orphaned or underutilized is blatantly false as demonstrated by the UTC’s (Urban Transportation Commission) unanimous vote in February to keep it open and by the petitioner’s subsequent loss of an appeal. Anchor Equities Limited’s interest appears to be motivated only by making a profit not in maintaining or enhancing our community’s access and mobility. I urge you to do the right thing and deny this request to vacate. Sincerely yours, Jeffrey Howell cc: zoning@OWANA.org Christopher.bueckner@austintexas.gov Ella.garcia@austintexas.gov CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov". 2 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 919 of 100 6 June 2025 RE: 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, We write to express OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 920 of 100 Heather Boyce 806 Winflo Austin, TX 78703 HLBoyce@gmail.com 512-560.8819 cc:christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov ella.garcia@austintexas.gov zoning@owana.org 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 921 of 100 Steering Committee Members: Stephen L. Amos, Chair Renae Alsobrook, Mark Ashby, Evelyn Fujimoto, Adrienne Goldsberry, Paula Hern, Nick Mehl, William Osborn, Charlie Rice, Paul Shattuck, Shawn Shillington, Erika Tatum, Meghan Yancy June 6, 2025 RE: Item 12 2024-128390 LM – 1114 West Fifth Street Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, On behalf of the Old West Austin Neighborhood Association (OWANA), we write to express strong opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street, as outlined in Right-of-Way Vacation Application No. 2024-128390 LM, submitted by Anchor Equities. This request is scheduled for consideration by the Planning Commission on June 10, despite unanimous opposition by the Urban Transportation Commission (UTC) and a formal denial from Director Mendoza of the Transportation and Public Works Department. An appeal of the denial was brought before the UTC on May 20 and was again rejected. OWANA, in partnership with Walsh Ventures 2, LLC, the owners of 503 and 505 Walsh Street, strongly supports preserving Sayers Street for continued public use. This corridor is essential to public safety, access to infrastructure, and neighborhood planning. No private party has the right to vacate or repurpose an active public street for private benefit. This case was initially scheduled for City Council on May 22. District 9 Council Member Zohaib Qadri voiced support for the UTC’s recommendation to deny the vacation of Sayers Street the day prior. However, the item was withdrawn from the Council agenda without explanation and rerouted that same day to the Planning Commission. Sayers Street plays a critical “back-of-house” role by providing necessary access for trash service, delivery vehicles, and infrastructure like transformers—functions that would otherwise encroach on pedestrian-focused corridors like West 6th and Walsh Streets. Its connection to West 5th Street is essential for service vehicles, including tractor-trailers, which cannot navigate the steep and narrow geometry of Walsh Street. Assertions in the application that the street serves only retail customers are demonstrably false. OWANA has been working for more than six months with Manifold Real Estate on the “6th and Walsh” mixed-use development, which includes 25 affordable housing units and has already been submitted for permitting. This project depends on continued public access to Sayers Street for sewer lines, loading areas, transformer placement, and garage access. Assistant Director Upal Barua of Transportation and Public Works has affirmed the street’s critical function. Vacating it would derail this community-supported project and worsen traffic flow on Walsh. Anchor Equities, which owns property on both sides of the proposed closure, appears to be seeking to privatize public land to consolidate parcels for future redevelopment. While they originally stated redevelopment would not occur for at least a decade, that claim is inconsistent with recent activity. Their narrative has also shifted from reducing City maintenance costs and “orphaned” right-of-way, to concerns about traffic congestion and the lack of a traffic signal. These contradictions further diminish the credibility of their justification. 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 922 of 100 Moreover, the petition strategically targets only the east–west portion of Sayers Street, not the full right-of-way, raising questions about the legal and logistical clarity of the request. This piecemeal approach signals an attempt to exert control over public space for private gain, without demonstrating meaningful public benefit. As recently as May 21, the applicant presented a hastily prepared proposal to incorporate the vacated right-of- way into a speculative development concept without community engagement and without regard to ongoing planning efforts between OWANA, Manifold, and City Staff. OWANA and the developers are nearing completion of a Restrictive Covenant, reflecting extensive collaboration to ensure a well-integrated, community-supportive project. It would be both inappropriate and disruptive to jeopardize that work for a vague, undefined alternative. It is also worth noting that the applicant declined to engage with the 6th and Walsh developers over a year ago, despite outreach. At no time did they disclose plans to pursue a street vacation. plans that now directly threaten a viable, community-oriented project. The burden of proof rests with the applicant to demonstrate that the public street is no longer needed and they have failed to do so. In short, Sayers Street is an active public right-of-way that continues to serve essential public purposes. A private party does not have the authority to eliminate or restrict public access to a street that remains in full and necessary use by others. Approving this request would set a concerning precedent that allows private development to override the rights and needs of the broader community. We respectfully urge the Planning Commission to reject this application and uphold the public interest in maintaining Sayers Street as a functioning part of Austin’s public infrastructure and urban fabric. Thank you for your time and thoughtful consideration. Sincerely, Stephen L. Amos Steering Committee Chair Old West Austin Neighborhood Association 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 923 of 100 June 6, 2025 RE: 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, I write in support of OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacating of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The fabricated claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. I urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Lois Catherine Henderson 1613 Waterston Ave. Austin, TX 78703 c.henderson1613@gmailcom 512-517-1573 cc:christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov ella.garcia@austintexas.gov zoning@owana.org 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 924 of 100 June 7, 2025 RE: 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation – Sayers Street Dear Chair Hempel and Planning Commissioners: I live in Old West Austin-Clarksville, and I am in support of OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private business entity should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land nor is it private property. It is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. Please know that the Sixth & Walsh project has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Furthermore, the developers of Sixth & Walsh work with OWANA Zoning Committee for neighborhood compatibility. To approve vacating Sayers Street will directly undermine that progress and the City's stated housing and mobility goals. A private applicant does not have the authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Respectfully submitted, Christine Buendel 1403 Marshall Lane Austin, TX 78703 c_buendel@yahoo.com 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 925 of 100 June 7, 2025 Sarah Spreitzer McCalla 1300 W. 9th ½ Street Austin, TX 78703 sarahsmccalla@gmail.com 512-771-3472 To: City of Austin Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners RE: Item 12 - 2024-128390 LM -1114 West 5th Street Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, I write to express OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Sarah Spreitzer McCalla 1300 W. 9th ½ Street Austin, TX 78703 sarahsmccalla@gmail.com 512-771-3472 cc:christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov ella.garcia@austintexas.gov zoning@owana.org 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 926 of 100 June 8, 2025 RE: Item 12 - 2024-128390 LM -1114 West 5th Street Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, As a neighborhood member, I am writing to express my opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Louis Appel 721 Patterson Ave. Austin, TX 78703 louap@me.com 512-619-9003 cc:christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov ella.garcia@austintexas.gov zoning@owana.org 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 927 of 100 6/08/25 RE: Item 12 - 2024-128390 LM -1114 West 5th Street Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, I am writing to express my opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. I bike and walk down that street every day to avoid some of the massive traffic at Blanco and Sixth. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Phillip Wade 1202 Lorrain St. Austin, Tx 78703 Phillipwade2@gmail.com 512-658-0465 cc:christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov ella.garcia@austintexas.gov zoning@owana.org 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 928 of 100 BJ Friedman, PhD, RDN, LD 811 Patterson Avenue Austin, TX 78703 June 8, 2025 RE: Item 12 - 2024-128390 LM -1114 West 5th Street Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, My husband and I are writing to support OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Stan and BJ Friedman 811 Patterson Ave Austin, TX 78703 friedman.bj@gmail.com 512-773-7737 cc:christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov ella.garcia@austintexas.gov zoning@owana.org 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 929 of 100 6/5/2025 RE: 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, We write to express OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Path Brian 1621 Maggie Mays St Austin, TX 78703 mb@gte.net 512-423-5387 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 930 of 100 Bueckert, Christopher From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: dyounger@austin.rr.com Sunday, June 8, 2025 2:13 PM Bueckert, Christopher; Garcia, Ella 'zoning@owana.org' Item 12 - 2024-128390 LM -1114 West 5thStreet Importance: High Some people who received this message don't often get email from dyounger@austin.rr.com. Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Dear Mr. Bueckert: Please find attached letter for the attention of Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners regarding Item 12- 2024-128390 LM -1114 West 5thStreet Kindly confirm receipt upon acceptance. Thank you in advance for your attention to this matter. Best, Denise Younger June 8, 2025 RE: Item 12 - 2024-128390 LM -1114 West 5thStreet Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, I am writing to express support to OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. 1 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 931 of 100 The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. I urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Denise Younger 700 Pressler St Austin, TX 78703 dyounger@austin.rr.com 512-589-1825 CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov". 2 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 932 of 100 June 8, 2025 RE: 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, We write to express OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Mark W. Smith 1312 W 10th Street Austin, TX 78703 Mwse104@yahoo.com 903-736-0042 cc:christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov ella.garcia@austintexas.gov zoning@owana.org 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 933 of 100 Bueckert, Christopher From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: Nancy Risk <nancyrisk1@gmail.com> Sunday, June 8, 2025 3:08 PM Bueckert, Christopher zoning@owana.org; Garcia, Ella Item 12 - 2024-128390 LM -1114 West 5th Street Some people who received this message don't often get email from nancyrisk1@gmail.com. Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Dear Mr. Bueckert: Please find my email below for the attention of Chair Azhar and The Planning Commissioners regarding Item 12- 2024-128390LM -1114 West 5th Street objecting to the vacating of Sayers St. Kindy confirm receipt upon acceptance. Thank you in advance for your prompt attention to this matter. Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, As a long time resident in the area, I am writing to express OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian- oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Nancy Risk 1 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 934 of 100 1204 Lorrain St Austin TX 78703 Nancyrisk1@gmail.com CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov". 2 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 935 of 100 Bueckert, Christopher From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: Marisa S <homework8@gmail.com> Sunday, June 8, 2025 3:16 PM Bueckert, Christopher; Garcia, Ella zoning@owana.org Opposition to Sayers Street Closing Some people who received this message don't often get email from homework8@gmail.com. Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution June 8, 2025 RE: Item 12 - 2024-128390 LM -1114 West 5th Street Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, We write to express OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right- of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian- oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. This is my neighborhood. I live here and understand how important it is to keep the street open. Although I've heard plenty of reasons to keep it open, the only reasons I've heard to close it are beneficial to only a few - while being detrimental to most. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. 1 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 936 of 100 Sincerely, Marisa Schmidt 1609 W 8th Austin, TX 78703 theschmidts512@gmail.com -- Marisa Lopreato Schmidt Weston Property Group Real Estate 571-218-5761 CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov". 2 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 937 of 100 Bueckert, Christopher From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: Teresa Perez-Wiseley <unalaborista@gmail.com> Sunday, June 8, 2025 3:30 PM Bueckert, Christopher zoning@owanna.org Item 12 - 2024 - 2024-128390 LM - 1114 WEST 5TH STREET You don't often get email from unalaborista@gmail.com. Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution MR. BUECKERT, Please find letter below for the attention of Chair Azhar and Planning commissioners regarding Item 12 - 2024 - 128390 LM - 1114 West 5th St. kindly confirm receipt upon acceptance. Thank you in advance for your attention to this matter. In Solidarity, Teresa Perez-Wiseley ***************************************** June 8, 2024 RE: Item 12 - 2024 - 128390 LM - 1114 West 5th Street Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, I write to express OWANA’S continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024 - 128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of- 1 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 938 of 100 way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Austin has never been a city that just allows someone to take over public property. This is so Trump like, not sorry if that offends you. But he would do this or his colleagues just because without any law to authorize it. I already don’t like when restaurants are allowed to take over the sidewalk or part of street in front of them. I hate when school districts give away schools for free to voucher school organization or the state gives away space on a highway for a tollway. So, for a company to just believe they have more right than other citizens is too much for me. That is not a style that Austin should allow to happen. Sayers Street is not surplus land - it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that is underutilized or orphaned is simply false.That area has a large walking community who would have to go further to access their destination. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garbage entry. This development has broad support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation tour directly undermine that progress and the city’s stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. This would be a bad precedence to allow private companies to just take over for free 2 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 939 of 100 city property where the citizens are objecting and so should you. They are only concerned with this needs. Teresa Perez-Wiseley, Homeowner District 9 909 Theresa Avenue Austin, Tx. 78703 unalaborista@gmail.com 512-784-4839 CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov". 3 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 940 of 100 June 8,2025 RE: Item 12 - 2024-128390 LM -1114 West 5th Street Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, We write to express OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Gina Burchenal 1302 W 13th St Austin, TX 78703 kgburchenal@gmail.com 512-658-0338 cc:christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov ella.garcia@austintexas.gov zoning@owana.org 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 941 of 100 Bueckert, Christopher From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: amy voorhes <amy.voorhes@gmail.com> Sunday, June 8, 2025 10:39 PM Bueckert, Christopher Garcia, Ella; zoning@owana.org Keep Sayers Street Open! Some people who received this message don't often get email from amy.voorhes@gmail.com. Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, Like our Owana neighbors, the residents of The Gardens condominiums on 1115 West 7 Street oppose the proposed closure of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is critical component of neighborhood infrastructure. We depend on it for access to area businesses. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Amy Voorhes 1115 West 7th Street, M-1 Austin, TX 78703 amy.voorhes@gmail.com 617-816-4896 CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov". 1 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 942 of 100 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 943 of 100Bueckert, Christopher From: Sent: To: Subject: Bryan Kent <ventursome@gmail.com> Monday, June 9, 2025 11:23 AM Bueckert, Christopher Re: Item 12 - 2024-128390 LM -1114 West 5th Street You don't often get email from ventursome@gmail.com. Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Sorry, Google Docs issue. I've copied and pasted the attachment below. Thanks June 8, 2025 RE: Item 12 - 2024-128390 LM -1114 West 5th Street Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, I write to express OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian- oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. 1 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 944 of 100 It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. I urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Bryan Kent 1718 Palma Plaza Apt. D Austin, TX 78703 Ventursome@gmail.com 512-203-4017 On Mon, Jun 9, 2025, 11:16 Bueckert, Christopher <Christopher.Bueckert@austintexas.gov> wrote: Good morning, Bryan. There was no letter attached to your previous email. Please advise. Have a nice day. Thank you, 2 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 945 of 100 Christopher Bueckert (He, Him, His) Real Estate Services Agent, Land Development Engineering Transportation and Public Works, Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Austin, TX 78752 512-974-1780 christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov **Please email LandManagementROW@austintexas.gov on all right-of-way encroachment and vacation questions and concerns** **Please email LandManagement2@austintexas.gov on all license agreement questions and concerns** **Please email LandManagement@austintexas.gov on all easement release questions and concerns** From: Bryan Kent <ventursome@gmail.com> Sent: Sunday, June 8, 2025 8:21 PM To: Bueckert, Christopher <Christopher.Bueckert@austintexas.gov> Cc: Garcia, Ella <Ella.Garcia@austintexas.gov>; zoning@owana.org Subject: Item 12 - 2024-128390 LM -1114 West 5th Street Some people who received this message don't often get email from ventursome@gmail.com. Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Dear Mr. Bueckert: Please find attached letter for the attention of Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners regarding Item 12- 2024-128390 LM -1114 West 5th Street Kindly confirm receipt upon acceptance. Thank you in advance for your attention to this matter. 3 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 946 of 100 Best, Bryan Kent RE: Item 12 - 2024-128390 LM -1114 West 5th Street CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov". CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov". 4 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 947 of 100 Bueckert, Christopher From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: Miguel Rivera <miguel@mirorivera.com> Monday, June 9, 2025 9:52 AM amy voorhes; Bueckert, Christopher Garcia, Ella; zoning@owana.org Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). Some people who received this message don't often get email from miguel@mirorivera.com. Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, As a resident of OWANA for the last 25 years, I oppose the proposed closure of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). As our neighborhood keeps changing and adapting to higher density, we need more connections, sidewalks and access, therefore Sayers Street is critical component of the neighborhood infrastructure. I urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Miguel Rivera, FAIA Principal Miró Rivera Architects 505 Powell St, Austin, TX 78703 | 512.477.7016 mirorivera.com | Facebook | Instagram Celebrating 20 years of design excellence in 2020-2021 CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov". 1 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 948 of 100 9 June 2025 RE: Item 12 - 2024-128390 LM -1114 West 5thStreet Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, I write to underscore and support OWANA’s strong and continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM).  I believe it quite improper that a private party be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land, but an essential service corridor that daily serves adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets.  The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is easily and immediately refutable on simple observation. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry.  This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones.  Approving this vacation would directly and critically undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. I urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, René Albee 605 Highland Austin, TX 78703 ReneVAlbee@gmail.com 512-699-3650 cc:christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov       ella.garcia@austintexas.gov     zoning@owana.org 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 949 of 100June 6, 2025 RE: 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, I am writing as a member of OWANA and our organization’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Jamie Katz & Family 1718 Palma Plaza Apt B Austin, TX 78703 cc:christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov ella.garcia@austintexas.gov zoning@owana.org 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 950 of 100 June 9, 2025 
RE: Item 12 - 2024-128390 LM -1114 West 5th Street Dear Chair Azhar and Planning Commissioners, I am writing to express my and OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false and no doubt stated to obtain one developers desire to close the street. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. I urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, Paula Hern 1707 Francis Ave. Austin, Texas 78703 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 951 of 100 June 6, 2025 RE: 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Chair Hempel and Planning Commissioners, We write to express OWANA’s continued opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Application No. 2024-128390 LM). A private party should not be allowed to vacate an active public right-of-way that serves critical community functions and provides access to multiple properties. Sayers Street is not surplus land—it is an essential service corridor used daily by adjacent property owners and businesses for deliveries, infrastructure access, and safe circulation away from pedestrian-oriented streets. The claim that it is underutilized or orphaned is simply false. The Sixth & Walsh project, which includes 25 affordable housing units, relies on Sayers Street for access, loading, utilities, and garage entry. This development has broad community support and is nearing key milestones. Approving this vacation would directly undermine that progress and the city's stated housing and mobility goals. It is not within a private applicant’s authority to override existing public use or force access concessions for private benefit. We urge the Commission to reject this petition and uphold the public interest in preserving access to Sayers Street. Sincerely, William Osborn 1104 Elm Street Austin, TX 78703 william@texasenergylaw.com 512-476-3529 ext.1 cc:christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov ella.garcia@austintexas.gov zoning@owana.org 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 952 of 100 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 953 of 10012 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 954 of 10012 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 955 of 10012 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 956 of 10012 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 957 of 100Raj Patel, PhD 1106 W 10th St Austin TX 78703 28 April 2025 Mayor Watson and City Council Members Austin City Council, City Hall, Council Chamber RE: Item 50 – 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Mayor Watson and City Council Members, I strongly oppose the proposed vacation of Sayers Street initiated by Anchor Equities and scheduled for the May 8th hearing. The proposal has already received unanimous opposition from the Urban Transportation Commission and was formally denied by the Transportation and Public Works Department. The Old West Austin NeighborhoodAssociation (OWANA), along with the owners of 503 and 505 Walsh Street, firmly support Sayers Street remaining open. This corridor is essential for pedestrian safety, service vehicle access, and future development viability. It provides critical infrastructure support - trash collection, deliveries, and transformer placement - while keeping such functions off pedestrian friendly streets. District 9 Council Member Qadri supports the UTC and staff recommendations to keep Walsh Street open based on the facts of this case, including that the area property owners were not in agreement. Sayers Street is also vital for businesses at 503 and 505 Walsh, whose operations had relied on large delivery vehicles that cannot access the properties from Walsh due to topography. Claims that the street is used only by retail customers are demonstrably false. Additionally, the planned “Sixth and Walsh” mixed-use development, which includes 25 affordable housing units, depends on continued public access to Sayers Street for utilities, loading, and garage access. Vacating the street would stall the project and increase traffic congestion on Walsh Street. We are concerned that Anchor Equities, which owns adjacent parcels, is seeking to privatize Sayers for future development. Despite claims of no immediate redevelopment plans, such intentions seem inconsistent with ongoing development 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 958 of 100 activity in the area. The petition for vacation identifies only the portion of Sayers Street that runs east and west, not the portion that runs north and south. Anchor Equities seeks inverse condemnation for personal gain at the expense of other owners not having access to the street. This proposed vacation serves private interests at the cost of public utility, safety, and neighborhood integrity. The City of Austin Transportation Code also requires unanimous consent from adjacent property owners - 503 and 505 Walsh were neither consulted nor supportive. I urge you to reject this application in the interest of maintaining vital infrastructure, supporting affordable housing, and preserving a walkable, vibrant West Austin. Sincerely, Raj Patel 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 959 of 100 Bueckert, Christopher From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: Robert McArthur <rtmca@yahoo.com> Monday, April 28, 2025 3:19 PM Bueckert, Christopher; Powers, Gilda zoning@owana.org Item 50 – 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation You don't often get email from rtmca@yahoo.com. Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution April 28, 2026 Mayor Watson and City Council Members Austin City Council, City Hall, Council Chamber RE: Item 50 – 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Mayor Watson and City Council Members, I strongly oppose the proposed vacation of Sayers Street initiated by Anchor Equities and scheduled for the May 8th hearing. The proposal has already received unanimous opposition from the Urban Transportation Commission and was formally denied by the Transportation and Public Works Department. The Old West Austin NeighborhoodAssociation (OWANA), along with the owners of 503 and 505 Walsh Street, firmly support Sayers Street remaining open. This corridor is essential for pedestrian safety, service vehicle access, and future development viability. It provides critical infrastructure support - trash collection, deliveries, and transformer placement - while keeping such functions off pedestrian friendly streets. District 9 Council Member Qadri supports the UTC and staff recommendations to keep Walsh Street open based on the facts of this case, including that the area property owners were not in agreement. Sayers Street is also vital for businesses at 503 and 505 Walsh, whose operations had relied on large delivery vehicles that cannot access the properties from Walsh due to topography. Claims that the street is used only by retail customers are demonstrably false. Additionally, the planned “Sixth and Walsh” mixed- use development, which includes 25 affordable housing units, depends on continued public access to Sayers Street for utilities, loading, and garage access. Vacating the street would stall the project and increase traffic congestion on Walsh Street. We are concerned that Anchor Equities, which owns adjacent parcels, is seeking to privatize Sayers forfuture development. Despite claims of no immediate redevelopment plans, such intentions seem inconsistent with ongoing development activity in the area. The petition for vacation identifies only the portion of Sayers Street that runs east and west, not the portion that runs north and south. Anchor Equities seeks inverse condemnation for personal gain at the expense of other owners not having access to the street. 1 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 960 of 100 This proposed vacation serves private interests at the cost of public utility, safety, and neighborhood integrity. The City of Austin Transportation Code also requires unanimous consent from adjacent property owners - 503 and 505 Walsh were neither consulted nor supportive. I urge you to reject this application in the interest of maintaining vital infrastructure, supporting affordable housing, and preserving a walkable, vibrant West Austin. I live on W. 5th and this closure will negatively affect my quality of life. Sincerely, Robert McArthur 1502 W. 5th St N-2 Austin, TX 78703 512-767-8285 CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov". 2 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 961 of 100 Steering Committee Members: Stephen L. Amos, Chair Renae Alsobrook, Mark Ashby, Evelyn Fujimoto, Adrienne Goldsberry, Paula Hern, Nick Mehl, William Osborn, Charlie Rice, Paul Shattuck, Shawn Shillington, Erika Tatum, Meghan Yancy April 28, 2025 Dear Mayor Watson and City Council Members, RE: Item 50 – 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation We write to express our strong opposition to the proposed vacation of Sayers Street (Right-of-Way Vacation Application 2024-128390 LM). This proposal, initiated by Anchor Equities, is scheduled to be heard by the City Council on May 8th, despite earlier unanimous opposition from the Urban Transportation Commission and a formal denial by Director Mendoza of the Transportation and Public Works Department. The Old West Austin Neighborhood Association (OWANA), alongside Walsh Ventures 2, LLC - owners of 503 and 505 Walsh Street - firmly supports Sayers Street remaining open for public use. This vital corridor plays a critical role in pedestrian safety, service vehicle access, and future development in the area. District 9 Council Member Qadri supports the UTC and staff recommendations based on the facts of this case, including that the area property owners were not in agreement. Sayers Street enables safe and efficient back-of-house functions such as trash collection, delivery access, and transformer placement - keeping them off pedestrian friendly streets like West Sixth and Walsh. Its strategic connection to West Fifth offers a practical route for large service vehicles, avoiding unsafe turns and congestion on narrower streets such as Walsh. The businesses at 503 and 505 Walsh had relied on Sayers Street for daily operations, including the regular delivery of goods via tractor-trailer. Due to topographical constraints, these trucks cannot access the properties from Walsh Street. The claim in the application that the street is used only by customers of nearby retail shops is demonstrably false. Furthermore, the proposed “6th and Walsh” mixed-use development - already submitted for permitting - includes 25 affordable housing units and assumes continued public access to Sayers Street. The development’s site plan relies on Sayers for sewer access, transformer placement, loading areas, and garage access. Closure of the street would not only block necessary access but also stall the development and increase traffic congestion on an already narrow Walsh Street. We are concerned that Anchor Equities, which owns adjacent property on both sides of the portion of Sayers in question, seeks to privatize the street to consolidate land for future development. While the applicant has claimed they have no near-term plans to redevelop, such a statement seems inconsistent with current development trends and lacks credibility. The petition for vacation identifies only the portion of Sayers Street that runs east and west, not the portion that runs north and south. Anchor Equities seeks inverse condemnation for personal gain at the expense of other owners not having access to the street. The City’s own Transportation Code requires unanimous consent from abutting property owners, yet the owners of 503 and 505 Walsh were neither consulted nor supportive of the petition. We urge the City Council to uphold the public interest and reject the application to vacate Sayers Street. Doing so will preserve a critical street for community access, ensure the success of much-needed affordable housing, and support a walkable, vibrant West Austin. Thank you for your time and consideration. Stephen L. Amos, Chair Old West Austin Neighborhood Association 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 962 of 100 Bueckert, Christopher From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: Hey, Gilda. Bueckert, Christopher Monday, April 28, 2025 4:09 PM Powers, Gilda TPW Land Management ROW FW: Sayers Street - 2024-128390 LM Please also add this one to the backup docs at your convenience. I think this is the last one. . .for today at least lol. Thank you again! Christopher Bueckert (He, Him, His) Real Estate Services Agent, Land Development Engineering Transportation and Public Works, Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Austin, TX 78752 512-974-1780 christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov **Please email LandManagementROW@austintexas.gov on all right-of-way encroachment and vacation questions and concerns** **Please email LandManagement2@austintexas.gov on all license agreement questions and concerns** **Please email LandManagement@austintexas.gov on all easement release questions and concerns** From: Maryandrea <andmia2@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, April 28, 2025 4:03 PM To: Bueckert, Christopher <Christopher.Bueckert@austintexas.gov>; Powers, Gilda <Gilda.Powers@austintexas.gov> Cc: zoning@owana.org Subject: Sayers Street Some people who received this message don't often get email from andmia2@gmail.com. Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Mayor Watson and City Council Members Austin City Council, City Hall, Council Chamber RE: Item 50 – 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation 1 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 963 of 100 Dear Mayor Watson and City Council Members, I strongly oppose the proposed vacation of Sayers Street initiated by Anchor Equities and scheduled for the May 8th hearing. The proposal has already received unanimous opposition from the Urban Transportation Commission and was formally denied by the Transportation and Public Works Department. The Old West Austin NeighborhoodAssociation (OWANA), along with the owners of 503 and 505 Walsh Street, firmly support Sayers Street remaining open. This corridor is essential for pedestrian safety, service vehicle access, and future development viability. It provides critical infrastructure support - trash collection, deliveries, and transformer placement - while keeping such functions off pedestrian friendly streets. District 9 Council Member Qadri supports the UTC and staff recommendations to keep Walsh Street open based on the facts of this case, including that the area property owners were not in agreement. Sayers Street is also vital for businesses at 503 and 505 Walsh, whose operations had relied on large delivery vehicles that cannot access the properties from Walsh due to topography. Claims that the street is used only by retail customers are demonstrably false. Additionally, the planned “Sixth and Walsh” mixed- use development, which includes 25 affordable housing units, depends on continued public access to Sayers Street for utilities, loading, and garage access. Vacating the street would stall the project and increase traffic congestion on Walsh Street. We are concerned that Anchor Equities, which owns adjacent parcels, is seeking to privatize Sayers forfuture development. Despite claims of no immediate redevelopment plans, such intentions seem inconsistent with ongoing development activity in the area. The petition for vacation identifies only the portion of Sayers Street that runs east and west, not the portion that runs north and south. Anchor Equities seeks inverse condemnation for personal gain at the expense of other owners not having access to the street. This proposed vacation serves private interests at the cost of public utility, safety, and neighborhood integrity. The City of Austin Transportation Code also requires unanimous consent from adjacent property owners - 503 and 505 Walsh were neither consulted nor supportive. I urge you to reject this application in the interest of maintaining vital infrastructure, supporting affordable housing, and preserving a walkable, vibrant West Austin. Sincerely, Kindly, Andrea Kelly Clarksville Resident CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov". 2 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 964 of 100 Lynne Marie Rupp 1115 W. 11th St. Unit 1 Austin, TX 78703 lrupp@swbell.net April 28, 2025 Mayor Watson and City Council Members Austin City Council, City Hall, Council Chamber RE: Item 50 – 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Mayor Watson and City Council Members, I strongly oppose the proposed vacation of Sayers Street initiated by Anchor Equities and scheduled for the May 8th hearing. The proposal has already received unanimous opposition from the Urban Transportation Commission and was formally denied by the Transportation and Public Works Department. The Old West Austin Neighborhood Association (OWANA), along with the owners of 503 and 505 Walsh Street, firmly support Sayers Street remaining open. This corridor is essential for pedestrian safety, service vehicle access, and future development viability. It provides critical infrastructure support - trash collection, deliveries, and transformer placement - while keeping such functions off pedestrian friendly streets. District 9 Council Member Qadri supports the UTC and staff recommendations to keep Walsh Street open based on the facts of this case, including that the area property owners were not in agreement. Sayers Street is also vital for businesses at 503 and 505 Walsh, whose operations had relied on large delivery vehicles that cannot access the properties from Walsh due to topography. Claims that the street is used only by retail customers are demonstrably false. Additionally, the planned “Sixth and Walsh” mixed-use development, which includes 25 affordable housing units, depends on continued public access to Sayers Street for utilities, loading, and garage access. Vacating the street would stall the project and increase traffic congestion on Walsh Street. We are concerned that Anchor Equities, which owns adjacent parcels, is seeking to privatize Sayers for future development. Despite claims of no immediate redevelopment plans, such intentions seem inconsistent with ongoing development activity in the area. The petition for vacation identifies only the portion of Sayers Street that runs east and west, not the portion that runs north 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 965 of 100 and south. Anchor Equities seeks inverse condemnation for personal gain at the expense of other owners not having access to the street. This proposed vacation serves private interests at the cost of public utility, safety, and neighborhood integrity. The City of Austin Transportation Code also requires unanimous consent from adjacent property owners - 503 and 505 Walsh were neither consulted nor supportive. I witness daily the congestion around 5th, 6th and Walsh. This closure would make this congestion much worse. I urge you to reject this application in the interest of maintaining vital infrastructure, supporting affordable housing, and preserving a walkable, vibrant West Austin. Sincerely, Lynne Marie Rupp 1115 W. 11th St. Unit 1 Austin, TX 78703 lrupp@swbell.net cc:christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov gilda.powers@austintexas.gov cc: zoning@owana.org 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 966 of 100 April 28, 2025 Mayor Watson and City Council Members Austin City Council, City Hall, Council Chamber RE: Item 50 – 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Mayor Watson and City Council Members, I strongly oppose the proposed vacation of Sayers Street initiated by Anchor Equities and scheduled for the May 8th hearing. The proposal has already received unanimous opposition from the Urban Transportation Commission and was formally denied by the Transportation and Public Works Department. The Old West Austin Neighborhood Association (OWANA), along with the owners of 503 and 505 Walsh Street, firmly support Sayers Street remaining open. This corridor is essential for pedestrian safety, service vehicle access, and future development viability. It provides critical infrastructure support - trash collection, deliveries, and transformer placement - while keeping such functions o(cid:431) pedestrian friendly streets. District 9 Council Member Qadri supports the UTC and sta(cid:431) recommendations to keep Sayers Street open based on the facts of this case, including that the area property owners were not in agreement. Sayers Street is also vital for businesses at 503 and 505 Walsh, whose operations had relied on large delivery vehicles that cannot access the properties from Walsh due to topography. Claims that the street is used only by retail customers are demonstrably false. Additionally, the planned “Sixth and Walsh” mixed-use development, which includes 25 a(cid:431)ordable housing units, depends on continued public access to Sayers Street for utilities, loading, and garage access. Vacating the street would stall the project and increase tra(cid:431)ic congestion on Walsh Street. We are concerned that Anchor Equities, which owns adjacent parcels, is seeking to privatize Sayers for future development. Despite claims of no immediate redevelopment plans, such intentions seem inconsistent with ongoing development activity in the area. The petition for vacation identifies only the portion of Sayers Street that runs east and 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 967 of 100 west, not the portion that runs north and south. Anchor Equities seeks inverse condemnation for personal gain at the expense of other owners not having access to the street. This proposed vacation serves private interests at the cost of public utility, safety, and neighborhood integrity. The City of Austin Transportation Code also requires unanimous consent from adjacent property owners - 503 and 505 Walsh were neither consulted nor supportive. I urge you to reject this application in the interest of maintaining vital infrastructure, supporting a(cid:431)ordable housing, and preserving a walkable, vibrant West Austin. Sincerely, Margaret Sullivan 1718 Palma Plz Austin, TX 78703 margsull512@gmail.com cc:christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov gilda.powers@austintexas.gov cc: zoning@owana.org 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 968 of 100 Bueckert, Christopher From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: Terry S <terrysmsnider@gmail.com> Monday, April 28, 2025 4:48 PM Bueckert, Christopher; Powers, Gilda zoning@owana.org Item 50 2024-128390LM -1114 West 5th Street. Keep Sayers St Open Some people who received this message don't often get email from terrysmsnider@gmail.com. Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Dear Mr. Bueckert: Please find attached letter for the attention of Mayor Kirk Watson and City Council Membersregarding Agenda Item 50 on the May 8th Agenda. Kindly confirm receipt upon acceptance. Thank you in advance for your attention to this matter. Best, Terry Snider April 28, 2025 Mayor Watson and City Council Members Austin City Council, City Hall, Council Chamber RE: Item 50 – 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Mayor Watson and City Council Members, I strongly oppose the proposed vacation of Sayers Street initiated by Anchor Equities and scheduled for the May 8th hearing. The proposal has already received unanimous opposition from the Urban Transportation Commission and was formally denied by the Transportation and Public Works Department. The Old West Austin NeighborhoodAssociation (OWANA), along with the owners of 503 and 505 Walsh Street, firmly support Sayers Street remaining open. This corridor is essential for pedestrian safety, service vehicle access, and future development viability. It provides critical infrastructure support - trash collection, deliveries, and transformer placement - while keeping such functions off pedestrian friendly streets. District 9 Council Member Qadri supports the UTC and staff recommendations to keep Walsh Street open based on the facts of this case, including that the area property owners were not in agreement. Sayers Street is also vital for businesses at 503 and 505 Walsh, whose operations had relied on large delivery vehicles that cannot access the properties from Walsh due to topography. Claims that the street is 1 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 969 of 100 used only by retail customers are demonstrably false. Additionally, the planned “Sixth and Walsh” mixed- use development, which includes 25 affordable housing units, depends on continued public access to Sayers Street for utilities, loading, and garage access. Vacating the street would stall the project and increase traffic congestion on Walsh Street. We are concerned that Anchor Equities, which owns adjacent parcels, is seeking to privatize Sayers forfuture development. Despite claims of no immediate redevelopment plans, such intentions seem inconsistent with ongoing development activity in the area. The petition for vacation identifies only the portion of Sayers Street that runs east and west, not the portion that runs north and south. Anchor Equities seeks inverse condemnation for personal gain at the expense of other owners not having access to the street. This proposed vacation serves private interests at the cost of public utility, safety, and neighborhood integrity. The City of Austin Transportation Code also requires unanimous consent from adjacent property owners - 503 and 505 Walsh were neither consulted nor supportive. I urge you to reject this application in the interest of maintaining vital infrastructure, supporting affordable housing, and preserving a walkable, vibrant West Austin. Sincerely, Terry Snider 806 Patterson Ave Austin, TX 78703 Terrysmsnider@gmail.com CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov". 2 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 970 of 100 Bueckert, Christopher From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: Hello again, Gilda. Bueckert, Christopher Monday, April 28, 2025 5:23 PM Powers, Gilda TPW Land Management ROW FW: Don't close Sayers St. - 2024-128390 LM I “think” this is the last one (for today at least). Please add this to the backup documents as well. Thank you! Christopher Bueckert (He, Him, His) Real Estate Services Agent, Land Development Engineering Transportation and Public Works, Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Austin, TX 78752 512-974-1780 christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov **Please email LandManagementROW@austintexas.gov on all right-of-way encroachment and vacation questions and concerns** **Please email LandManagement2@austintexas.gov on all license agreement questions and concerns** **Please email LandManagement@austintexas.gov on all easement release questions and concerns** From: Peggy Pickle <peggypickletx@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, April 28, 2025 4:54 PM To: Bueckert, Christopher <Christopher.Bueckert@austintexas.gov> Cc: gilda.powers@austin.rr.gov Subject: Don't close Sayers St. You don't often get email from peggypickletx@gmail.com. Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution I support keeping Sayers St. open. Item # 50 — 2024— 128390LM It’s preposterous that the City of Austin would even consider closing this street, which provides access to neighbors and businesses. Old West Austin is full of little streets like this, built a century ago before cars and big urban developments ruled. Street grids reflect that, not But these neighborhood streets are no less important to those who live nearby, park, walk and drive them. 1 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 971 of 100 I live nearby. Several businesses are serviced by Sayers St. They are back there, minding their own businesses, working for a living. Why would you close their only access road to favor potential future development? Sincerely, Peggy Pickle peggypickletx@gmail.com 1301 W. 9 1/2 St. Apt. 201 Austin, TX. 78703 CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov". 2 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 972 of 100  April 28, 2025 Mayor Watson and City Council Members Austin City Council, City Hall, Council Chamber RE: Item 50 – 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Mayor Watson and City Council Members, We are writing to you today as property owners in Old West Austin regarding Agenda item 50 on the May 8th City Council hearing. We respectfully request that you register our emphatic opposition to the proposed closing / vacation of Sayers St. which was initiated by Anchor Equities. The proposed vacation of Sayers St. previously received a unanimous opposition vote by the City of Austin Urban Transportation Commission (UTC). Additionally, this proposal was formally denied by the City of Austin Transportation and Public Works Department. Old West Austin Neighborhood Association (OWANA), in conjunction with the owners of 503 and 505 Walsh St., strongly support Sayers St. remaining open . Sayers St. is absolutely vital to the continuation of pedestrian safety and security as well as for service vehicle access, and the viability of any future development. Sayers St. provides essential infrastructure support such as trash collection, deliveries, and transformer placement - all while keeping the same functions off pedestrian friendly streets. You may already be aware that District 9 Council Member Qadri strongly supports the UTC and staff recommendations to keep Walsh St. open based on the well established facts of this case, including the fact that the area property owners were not in agreement. Sayers St. is also vital for businesses at 503 and 505 Walsh. These business’ operations rely on large delivery vehicles that cannot access the properties from Walsh due to the existing topography. We’d respectfully submit to you that any claims that the street is used only by retail customers are demonstrably false . 1 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 973 of 100 Finally, the planned “Sixth and Walsh” mixed-use development, which includes 25 affordable housing units, depends on continued public access to Sayers St. for utilities, loading, and garage access. Vacating the street would delay the project and increase traffic congestion on Walsh St.. We’re seriously concerned that Anchor Equities, which owns adjacent parcels, seeks to privatize Sayers St. for future development. Despite their claims of “no immediate redevelopment plans,” such intentions are inconsistent with ongoing development activity in the area. The petition for vacation identifies only the portion of Sayers St. that runs east and west , not the portion that runs north and south. Anchor Equities seeks inverse condemnation for personal gain at the expense of other owners who would lose access to the street. This proposed vacation serves private interests at the cost of public safety, utility, and the broad integrity of the neighborhood. As you know, the City of Austin Transportation Code also requires unanimous consent from adjacent property owners. To this point, 503 and 505 Walsh were neither consulted nor supportive. Do the right thing. Reject this application in the interest of maintaining vital infrastructure, supporting affordable housing, and preserving a walkable, vibrant West Austin. These are, after all, among the most precious features greater Austin values and wishes to preserve. Thank you for your consideration. Respectfully, Daniel Armendariz & Megan Alrutz 1608 W. 8th St Austin, TX 78703 gilda.powers@austintexas.gov ; zoning@owana.org cc: 2 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 974 of 100Bueckert, Christopher From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: Beverly Dunn <bbbeverlytx@gmail.com> Monday, April 28, 2025 6:12 PM Bueckert, Christopher Powers, Gilda; zoning@owana.org Item 50 2024-128390 LM - 1114 West 5th St. [Some people who received this message don't often get email from bbbeverlytx@gmail.com. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] External Email - Exercise Caution Dear Mr Bueckert: Please convey to Mayor Watson and all council members that I oppose the vacation of Sayers Street. The adjacent neighbor and adjoining neighborhood oppose this and were not adequately consulted. Please give attention to the recommendations of interested parties (including UTC, Transportation and Public Works Depts.) who also oppose this for a multitude of reasons. Thank you for considering my viewpoint, Beverly Dunn CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov". 1 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 975 of 100 Mayor Watson and City Council Members Austin City Council, City Hall, Council Chamber RE: Item 50 – 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Mayor Watson and City Council Members, I strongly oppose the proposed vacation of Sayers Street initiated by Anchor Equities and scheduled for the May 8th hearing. The proposal has already received unanimous opposition from the Urban Transportation Commission and was formally denied by the Transportation and Public Works Department. The Old West Austin Neighborhood Association (OWANA), along with the owners of 503 and 505 Walsh Street, firmly support Sayers Street remaining open. This corridor is essential for pedestrian safety, service vehicle access, and future development viability. It provides critical infrastructure support - trash collection, deliveries, and transformer placement - while keeping such functions off pedestrian friendly streets. District 9 Council Member Qadri supports the UTC and staff recommendations to keep Walsh Street open based on the facts of this case, including that the area property owners were not in agreement. Sayers Street is also vital for businesses at 503 and 505 Walsh, whose operations had relied on large delivery vehicles that cannot access the properties from Walsh due to topography. Claims that the street is used only by retail customers are demonstrably false. Additionally, the planned “Sixth and Walsh” mixed-use development, which includes 25 affordable housing units, depends on continued public access to Sayers Street for utilities, loading, and garage access. Vacating the street would stall the project and increase traffic congestion on Walsh Street. We are concerned that Anchor Equities, which owns adjacent parcels, is seeking to privatize Sayers for future development. Despite claims of no immediate redevelopment plans, such intentions seem inconsistent with ongoing development activity in the area. The petition for vacation identifies only the portion of Sayers Street that runs east and west, not the portion that runs north and south. Anchor Equities seeks inverse condemnation for personal gain at the expense of other owners not having access to the street. 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 976 of 100 This proposed vacation serves private interests at the cost of public utility, safety, and neighborhood integrity. The City of Austin Transportation Code also requires unanimous consent from adjacent property owners - 503 and 505 Walsh were neither consulted nor supportive. I urge you to reject this application in the interest of maintaining vital infrastructure, supporting affordable housing, and preserving a walkable, vibrant West Austin. Sincerely, Mike Banghart 800 Winflo Drive Austin, TX 78703 mb@gte.net 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 977 of 100 4/28/2025 Mayor Watson and City Council Members Austin City Council, City Hall, Council Chamber RE: Item 50 – 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Mayor Watson and City Council Members, I strongly oppose the proposed vacation of Sayers Street initiated by Anchor Equities and scheduled for the May 8th hearing. The proposal has already received unanimous opposition from the Urban Transportation Commission and was formally denied by the Transportation and Public Works Department. The Old West Austin Neighborhood Association (OWANA), along with the owners of 503 and 505 Walsh Street, firmly support Sayers Street remaining open. This corridor is essential for pedestrian safety, service vehicle access, and future development viability. It provides critical infrastructure support - trash collection, deliveries, and transformer placement - while keeping such functions off pedestrian friendly streets. District 9 Council Member Qadri supports the UTC and staff recommendations to keep Walsh Street open based on the facts of this case, including that the area property owners were not in agreement. Sayers Street is also vital for businesses at 503 and 505 Walsh, whose operations had relied on large delivery vehicles that cannot access the properties from Walsh due to topography. Claims that the street is used only by retail customers are demonstrably false. Additionally, the planned “Sixth and Walsh” mixed-use development, which includes 25 affordable housing units, depends on continued public access to Sayers Street for utilities, loading, and garage access. Vacating the street would stall the project and increase traffic congestion on Walsh Street. I am concerned that Anchor Equities, which owns adjacent parcels, is seeking to privatize Sayers for future development. Despite claims of no immediate redevelopment plans, such intentions seem inconsistent with ongoing development activity in the area. The petition for vacation identifies only the portion of Sayers Street that runs east and west, not the portion that runs north and south. Anchor Equities seeks inverse condemnation for personal gain at the expense of other owners not having access to the street. This proposed vacation serves private interests at the cost of public utility, safety, and neighborhood integrity. The City of Austin Transportation Code also requires unanimous consent from adjacent property owners - 503 and 505 Walsh were neither consulted nor supportive. I urge you to reject this application in the interest of maintaining vital infrastructure, supporting affordable housing, and preserving a walkable, vibrant West Austin. Sincerely, 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 978 of 100 David J Belknap 909 West Lynn St. Austin, TX 78703 acebelknap@austin.rr.com cc:christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov gilda.powers@austintexas.gov cc: zoning@owana.org 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 979 of 100 Bueckert, Christopher From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: Alison Ryan <alison2005ryan@yahoo.com> Monday, April 28, 2025 4:13 PM christopher.bueckert@austintexas.go; Powers, Gilda zoning@owana.org Subject: Item 50 2024-128390 LM - 1114 West 5th Street You don't often get email from alison2005ryan@yahoo.com. Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Dear Mr. Bueckert: Please find attached letter for the attention of Mayor Kirk Watson and City Council Membersregarding Agenda Item 50 on the May 8th Agenda. Kindly confirm receipt upon acceptance. Thank you in advance for your attention to this concern Alison Ryan April 29, 2025 Mayor Watson and City Council Members Austin City Council, City Hall, Council Chamber RE: Item 50 – 2024-128390 LM Right-of-Way Vacation Dear Mayor Watson and City Council Members, I strongly oppose the proposed vacation of Sayers Street initiated by Anchor Equities and scheduled for the May 8th hearing. The proposal has already received unanimous opposition from the Urban Transportation Commission and was formally denied by the Transportation and Public Works Department. The Old West Austin NeighborhoodAssociation (OWANA), along with the owners of 503 and 505 Walsh Street, firmly support Sayers Street remaining open. This corridor is essential for pedestrian safety, service vehicle access, and future development viability. It provides critical infrastructure support - trash collection, deliveries, and transformer placement - while keeping such functions off pedestrian friendly streets. 1 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 980 of 100 District 9 Council Member Qadri supports the UTC and staff recommendations to keep Walsh Street open based on the facts of this case, including that the area property owners were not in agreement. Sayers Street is also vital for businesses at 503 and 505 Walsh, whose operations had relied on large delivery vehicles that cannot access the properties from Walsh due to topography. Claims that the street is used only by retail customers are demonstrably false. Additionally, the planned “Sixth and Walsh” mixed-use development, which includes 25 affordable housing units, depends on continued public access to Sayers Street for utilities, loading, and garage access. Vacating the street would stall the project and increase traffic congestion on Walsh Street. We are concerned that Anchor Equities, which owns adjacent parcels, is seeking to privatize Sayers forfuture development. Despite claims of no immediate redevelopment plans, such intentions seem for vacation inconsistent with ongoing development activity identifies only the portion of Sayers Street that runs east and west, not the portion that runs north and south. Anchor Equities seeks inverse condemnation for personal gain at the expense of other owners not having access to the street. the area. The petition in This proposed vacation serves private interests at the cost of public utility, safety, and neighborhood integrity. The City of Austin Transportation Code also requires unanimous consent from adjacent property owners - 503 and 505 Walsh were neither consulted nor supportive. I urge you to reject this application in the interest of maintaining vital infrastructure, supporting affordable housing, and preserving a walkable, vibrant West Austin. Sincerely, Alison Ryan 1305 W 9 1/2 St Apt 101 Austin, TX 78703 Alison2005ryan@yahoo.com cc:christopher.bueckert@austintexas.gov gilda.powers@austintexas.gov cc: zoning@owana.org Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov". 2 12 2024-128390 LM - 1114 W 5th Street; District 981 of 100