12 C14-2025-0003 - 6th and Walsh; District 9 - Letter of Support — original pdf

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Steering Committee Members: Stephen L. Amos, Chair Mark Ashby, Jeff Callahan, Scott Campbell, Marc Carlson, Hunter Coleman, Evelyn Fujimoto, Adrienne Goldsberry, Nick Mehl, William Osborn, Charlie Rice, Paul Shattuck, Shawn Shillington July 15, 2026 Re: Item No. 12 - C14-2025-0003 Letter of Support for amending the Rezoning of W. 6th Street & Walsh Street Dear Chair Woods and Commissioners, On behalf of the Old West Austin Neighborhood Association (OWANA), we write to express our support for amending Ordinance No. 20250724-173 to increase the maximum floor area ratio (FAR) from 1:1 to 6.75:1. This case was previously approved by City Council on July 24, 2025, with additional conditions as outlined in Council Member Qadri's motion sheet. The requested increase to a 6.75:1 FAR is consistent with the Restrictive Covenant negotiated between OWANA and the applicant. As part of that collaborative process, OWANA agreed to support the additional development capacity in exchange for enforceable commitments governing design, operations, and neighborhood compatibility. The Restrictive Covenant provides ongoing oversight and accountability through fundamental design standards and operational limitations that clearly define acceptable uses and ensure the project remains compatible with the surrounding neighborhood over time. These negotiated commitments provide confidence that the increased FAR will be accompanied by meaningful protections for the neighborhood's historic character, livability, and quality of life, while allowing the site to accommodate responsible, much-needed housing and redevelopment. In conclusion, OWANA is proud to support this proposal. The project reflects thoughtful urban planning, meaningful community engagement, and a commitment to preserving what makes the Old West Austin neighborhood special. It demonstrates that increased density and historic preservation can coexist when approached with care, collaboration, and creativity. We respectfully ask the Planning Commission to support this amendment to the rezoning, including the increase in maximum FAR to 6.75:1, on the consent agenda. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Stephen L. Amos Steering Committee Chair Old West Austin Neighborhood Association 12 C14-2025-0003 - 6th and Walsh; District 91 of 1