TickTock: Austin City Council meeting 1.26.17
Monday, January 30, 2017 by Michael Kanin
TickTock is the sortable transcript of @austinmonitor live Tweets from the most recent Austin City Council meeting.
TickTock for Friday, January 27, 2017
Participants:
austinmonitor 281
cityjane 2
DanKeshet 1
juliogatx 1
SomewhereinATX 1
Thursday, January 26, 2017 9AM
RT @MKanin: Sadz: No more Kanin live-tweeting #atxcouncil. Gladz: @austinmonitor has you covered. Follow for live updates from today’s meet… January 26, 2017 09:30 AM
All Access Readers! Get a head start on today’s Austin City Council meeting with @JoClifton78704’s TipSheet: https://t.co/0Mw0H9T68n #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:45 AM
RT @AustinTechAll: Today’s the first #atxcouncil meeting w/ new Council Members @JimmyFlannigan & @Alison_Alter. Follow @austinmonitor for… January 26, 2017 09:49 AM
Minutes (hopefully) away from the kick off of the first official #ATXCouncil meeting! As per usual, @kathietovo first CM in the chamber. January 26, 2017 09:55 AM
BTW, @JackCraver here, filling in the enormous cowboy boots left by #ATXCouncil tweeter-in-chief @MKanin. Plz, go easy on me. #ATXGov January 26, 2017 09:56 AM
It’s 10 and we got 3 CMs on the dais. Many CMs have voiced hope that meetings this yr will be shorter, faster. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:59 AM
Thursday, January 26, 2017 10AM
Check out our Tip Sheet for what’s going on at the first meeting of the #ATXCouncil: https://t.co/uSpNUpgofB #atxgov January 26, 2017 10:01 AM
Big response to Trump from mayors & law enforcement over threat to deny fed funds to sanctuary cities. In Austin: https://t.co/iY1r6rjGBU January 26, 2017 10:07 AM
#ATXCouncil will take up zoning cases at 2 pm today. January 26, 2017 10:11 AM
#ATXCouncil will also be hearing from the Barton Hills Elementary School Choir at 5:30 pm! #atxgov January 26, 2017 10:11 AM
Internet problems…have to rely on my phone! January 26, 2017 10:20 AM
RT @JackCraver: Fitness trainer leading #atxcouncil in morning workout. https://t.co/cPqiJzhFEz January 26, 2017 10:20 AM
Items 40, 42 have been pulled. January 26, 2017 10:22 AM
Item 44
Item 44 will be postponed for a week, while they flesh it out a little, says CM Garza. January 26, 2017 10:23 AM
Asst City Manager Mark Washington: 51% of city employees participate in city wellness program #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 10:24 AM
Pulled by public: items 19, 22, 23, 40, 42, 44, 45, 46 January 26, 2017 10:25 AM
Items 18, 24, 25 withdrawn. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 10:26 AM
Item 49
Looks @EllenforAustin is abstaining from items 7, 10 and voting no on item 49, 26, 45. #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 10:28 AM
Now that @DonZimmermanATX & Sheri Gallo are gone, @EllenforAustin only conservative left on dais. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 10:29 AM
Now @EllenforAustin is asking staff over a guitar-shaped bus stop, wondering why “Art in Public Places” $ wasn’t used for it. #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 10:31 AM
City staff says they view guitar-shaped bus stop at airport as “Capital Investment,” not art. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 10:32 AM
CM @EllenforAustin is raising concerns about $546k bus stop at airport shaped like guitar. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 10:33 AM
Item 12
Now @EllenTroxclair concerned about Item 12 … $26 million contract and only one bidder. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 10:34 AM
Item 12
Staff: Seven contractors showed interest in bid on Item 12, but only 1 bid. Many saw project too long, complicated. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 10:35 AM
CM @DGarzaforD2 making statement on #WomensMarch. “I want to thank my colleagues for stepping up” to make it possible. #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 10:38 AM
CM @DGarzaforD2 says “it will be difficult 4 yrs for many of us” and thanks participants of #WomensMarch. Elicits applause. #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 10:39 AM
.@kathietovo recounts getting emails from Austinites who wanted to help re: women’s march. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 10:40 AM
Item 45
Now @EllenforAustin says she has heard from constituents unhappy about Item 45, resolution in support of abortion rights. #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 10:41 AM
CM @LesliePoolATX also celebrates #WomensMarch and says “Women’s Rights are Human Rights.” #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 10:42 AM
.@Oraatx1 says she contributes to @PPGreaterTX & is pro-choice, but has concerns about being “in people’s faces” w/resolution. #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 10:44 AM
.@CM_Renteria says he will support pro-choice resolution, relates story of pregnant granddaughters. Says it is “their decision.” #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 10:45 AM
.@RECA_Austin addressing resolution about impact of demolitions on affordability. More on issue here: https://t.co/MXyjCealfM #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 10:46 AM
.@RECA_Austin asks #ATXCouncil to consider RECA an ally & resource as it moves toward implementing @ImagineAustin. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 10:48 AM
RT @PointAustin: Houston to abstain from resolution supporting abortion rights, but does not specify amendments she wanted to offer #ATXCou… January 26, 2017 10:49 AM
Gus Pena says #ATXCouncil needs a definition of “affordable housing.” “We have so much hurt out there in community.” #Atxgov January 26, 2017 10:50 AM
Gus Pena: “Mayor, we are not without homeless veterans.” #atxcouncil #atxgov “Do your homework before you demolish anything.” January 26, 2017 10:51 AM
Resolution on demolitions on consent agenda. @kathietovo to include amnt proposed by @GregCasar. More info here: https://t.co/MXyjCealfM January 26, 2017 10:54 AM
.@GregCasar says “large majority” of #ATXCouncil shares goal to pursue affordable housing, even if they disagree on how sometimes. #atxgov January 26, 2017 10:55 AM
Consent agenda passes unanimously, with @EllenforAustin abstaining & voting no a few items. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 10:56 AM
Item 19
Now Item 19, a pilot program to allow bars on Red River to play live music later into the night. Preview of issue:https://t.co/BqrxIhuRe3 January 26, 2017 10:57 AM
Mary Ingle says the sound from Red River St music venues “causes suffering” in Waller Creek Basin. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 10:58 AM
She says emails from neighbors complaining about noise should be included in review of music venues. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 10:59 AM
Thursday, January 26, 2017 11AM
Mary Ingle says resolution to allow 85 decibel live music late at night on Red River “rewards bad actors.” #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:00 AM
GM of Hotel Indigo at #ATXCouncil opposed to extended hours of high-volume live music on Red River St. #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:01 AM
Allowing loud music later into night on Red River “would impact my biz tremendously” says GM of Hotel Indigo. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:02 AM
“We are very disappointed that we have not been engaged” by COA over Red River St music pilot program says Hotel Indigo GM. #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 11:03 AM
.@kathietovo notes that Indigo Hotel is paying for a caseworker to deal w/homelessness. #atxgov #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 11:05 AM
.@GregCasar suggests that hotels might be hurt if music venues are shut down. It’s “balance” city must strike. #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 11:06 AM
.@MayorAdler says intent of pilot program is not just to allow more music, but to figure out how to mitigate it w/technology. #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 11:09 AM
.@D5Kitchen concerned the resolution on Red River St pilot program “very broad.” #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:11 AM
.@MayorAdler “Everybody has an incentive” for both residents & music industry to be happy. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:12 AM
.@kathietovo says she will offer amendments to make pilot shorter & require more stakeholder input. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:13 AM
Matthew Stafford of the Hyatt House, hotel to open in April right above Charlie’s House. Not happy about pilot program either. #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 11:15 AM
Hyatt rep says they expect lot of biz from legislators. Do members of #ATXCouncil want legislators to be well-rested? #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:16 AM
David King, prez of Austin Neigh Council, is concerned about “offering carrots first” to music venues. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:17 AM
King: Why don’t we put music mitigation strategies used for ACL etc before allowing extended hrs on Red River. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:18 AM
David King: “What is the measure of success” for the pilot program to allow extended hrs of music on Red River? #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:19 AM
Ross Hamilton of JCI Hospitality –– several hotels –– also at #ATXCouncil w/concerns about pilot allowing more music on Red River. #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:20 AM
Hamilton of JCI Hospitality: Extended live music hrs will have “huge negative impact on our business.” #atxgov #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 11:20 AM
“Our ownership groups have invested close to $100 million” in hotels that will be jeopardized by more noise on Red River. #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 11:22 AM
Ryan Garrett of Stubbs BBQ, at #ATXCouncil in support of Red River extended hours for live music. #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:23 AM
Garrett of Stubbs BBQ: Extending live music hrs on Red River St is great way to create jobs in music industry. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:24 AM
“You’re exposing local musicians to larger audiences,” says Stubbs BBQ GM about pilot for extended live music hrs on Red River. #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 11:25 AM
Stubbs BBQ GM says have essentially eliminated noise complaints after engaging in loan program to implement new sound system. #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 11:27 AM
Neighbor says he deals w/loud music from Stubbs BBQ 20 blocks from site late into the night. #atxgov #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 11:28 AM
Resident says people on 43rd St are affected by noise from Red River St. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:30 AM
Cody Cowan of @mohawkaustin: Extended hours on Red River will create jobs. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:31 AM
Cody Cowan of @mohawkaustin: Additional hours will lead to 8-10% more revenue for music venues on Red River. #atxgov #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 11:31 AM
Cody Cowan of @mohawkaustin says his biz has had 0 noise violations during his 8-yr tenure. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:32 AM
Avowed dog opponent Robert Corbin says young ppl in support of extended music hrs on Red River will be losing their hearing. #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 11:34 AM
Corbin: “When we care so much about health of young ppl, why do we allow them to b exposed to sound that will destroy their hearing?” January 26, 2017 11:35 AM
RT @PointAustin: Houses many blocks north of Red River act as “resonators” for bass sound traveling up Waller Creek; difficult to resolve #… January 26, 2017 11:35 AM
Corbin: Nobody should have right to project sound “beyond their property line” and “terrorize” others. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:36 AM
Red River merchant assoc supports pilot for extended music hrs on Red River. Says will provide econ data to demonstrate positive impact. January 26, 2017 11:39 AM
OK, now #ATXCouncil to debate whether to do 1-yr pilot program to extend live music hrs on Red River St. #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:40 AM
Alex Lopez of Econ Dev Dept says plan is to measure the distance and intensity of sound of music in surrounding area. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:44 AM
Econ Dev Dept: Wants very “granular” analysis of how much $ generated from pilot program goes to local musicians. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:44 AM
Staff: If we see positive econ impacts of extended hrs but also noise complaints, we might recommend more mitigation efforts. #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 11:46 AM
Staff: City will be able to take away extended hrs for venues that are being too loud. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:48 AM
APD has not been asked 4 recommendation on pilot program for extended hours for Red River music venues. That bothers @kathietovo January 26, 2017 11:51 AM
City Manager suggests #ATXCouncil postpone so she can talk w/APD and Econ Dev Dept more on issue. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:52 AM
New CM @Alison_Alter making first comments as CM. Wonders about cost to city of potential increase in public safety issues on Red River. January 26, 2017 11:54 AM
Staff says city can do random, unannounced checks of Red River music venues to make sure they’re abiding by regs. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:54 AM
Staff cites Stubbs as example of how city can gather data & recommend improvements that make things better. #atxgov #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 11:56 AM
Staff: Intent of pilot program is aimed at 5 existing music venues on Red River. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 11:58 AM
Thursday, January 26, 2017 12PM
CM @Alison_Alter says that extending music hours sounds like departure from “agent of change” principle. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 12:00 PM
.@Alison_Alter says she wants postponement on Red River pilot program, says she believes #ATXCouncil can get to a “win-win” #atxgov January 26, 2017 12:01 PM
What We Woke Up To: January 26, 2017 – https://t.co/b4Ec54Zunu January 26, 2017 12:04 PM
Neighbor assocs, other businesses & music venues = stakeholders that city will be engaging w/over Red River pilot. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 12:04 PM
CM @LesliePoolATX wants to make sure Austin Neigh Council, “as voice of the neighborhoods” is included in stakeholders. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 12:05 PM
.@kathietovo wants more “intents” to be specified in Red River pilot program. #atxcouncil #atxgov January 26, 2017 12:09 PM
For historic grants program, use-it-or-lose-it process leaves dollars unspent. Read more (via @TheeChad): https://t.co/Z23TUHkWLo #atxgov January 26, 2017 12:10 PM
OK, lunch time! #ATXCouncil will take up Red River pilot program again in the PM! #atxgov January 26, 2017 12:11 PM
Whoops, scratch that…looks like #ATXCouncil will talk briefly about Simply Recyling contract before lunch. #atxgov January 26, 2017 12:13 PM
Our quote of the day for Thursday, January 26, 2017. Read more at https://t.co/8U59m65u3V #atxgov https://t.co/Dk8c1BjpCO January 26, 2017 12:30 PM
Thursday, January 26, 2017 1PM
Abbott, Trump sanctuary city threats draw vocal local response. Read more (via @AKMcGlinchy & our p’ship w @KUT): https://t.co/TVg1fDG4t1 January 26, 2017 01:30 PM
O hai, gang. #ATXcouncil is (presumably) minutes away from kicking off the second half of today’s regular meeting. January 26, 2017 01:59 PM
Thursday, January 26, 2017 2PM
Mild stirring on the ol’ dais here at #atxcouncil. #atxgov January 26, 2017 02:07 PM
Item 19
#atxcouncil resumes its meeting. Before getting back to Item 19 (Red River music), we start with consent zoning items. January 26, 2017 02:09 PM
"@austinmonitor what was the outcome re: @SimplyRecycling ??"
@cityjane @SimplyRecycling They’ve yet to take it up. Should come after they finish the Red River music action. January 26, 2017 02:14 PM
Still working through the zoning consent items. @MayorAdler now offering folks who want to speak to certain items their chance. #atxgov January 26, 2017 02:25 PM
First speaker to take the opportunity, Michele Hausman representing Plaza Saltillo developers. #atxgov January 26, 2017 02:27 PM
"First speaker to take the opportunity, Michele Hausman representing Plaza Saltillo developers. #atxgov"
*Hassman. January 26, 2017 02:27 PM
Plaza Saltillo zoning will be postponed to Feb 9 meeting. Haussman says it gives concerned parties time to learn n’ about rap plans. #atxgov January 26, 2017 02:28 PM
For your planning purposes: Plaza Saltillo rezoning case will go before #atxgov 1st reading Feb. 9, 2nd reading Feb. 16, 3rd reading March 2 January 26, 2017 02:29 PM
.@d3forpio says he’s happy with Plaza Saltillo schedule. #atxgov January 26, 2017 02:32 PM
.@LesliePoolATX speaks to 1301 W. Koenig rezoning case (former dealership next to Dart Bowl). #atxgov January 26, 2017 02:33 PM
Pool wants staff to look for opportunities to mixed-use, affordable housing, and compatibility. #atxgov January 26, 2017 02:33 PM
Item 76
Barge of state has temporarily grounded on postponement date for Item 76, rezoning from SF3 to SF6 at 4507-11 Vinson Dr. in @D3ATX. #atxgov January 26, 2017 02:42 PM
Item 76
Barge unstuck. Developer and neighborhood group (repped by @eraycollins) reach agreement: Item 76 ppd to Feb. 9. #atxgov January 26, 2017 02:43 PM
Item 19
And we’re back to Item 19, the Red River live music pilot program. #atxgov January 26, 2017 02:44 PM
Chief Manley up now to rap about potential costs to APD. #atxgov January 26, 2017 02:48 PM
Manley: It will have an impact, but gonna need time to figure out how big of an impact. #atxgov January 26, 2017 02:48 PM
Manley requests sound curfew going from 1:30 to 1am, six-month trial period. #atxgov January 26, 2017 02:49 PM
MPT Tovo says current proposal includes automatic six-month review. #atxgov January 26, 2017 02:50 PM
Looks like new staff recommendations incorporate ideas from Tovo and CM Alter. Staff now clarifying the fresh proposals. #atxgov January 26, 2017 02:52 PM
Staff recommends pilot to run May 1 thru Nov 1, with an Oct 19 agenda item to consider extending it another six months. #atxgov January 26, 2017 02:53 PM
CM Troxclair wants to ensure that venue owners were included in lunchtime conversations to polish the recommendations. #atxgov January 26, 2017 02:57 PM
Alter questions whether language regarding longer curfew during spring season should be kept in if it expires in Nov. #atxgov January 26, 2017 02:58 PM
Adler says let’s keep it in there just in case we renew in November and forget to add that language back in. #atxgov January 26, 2017 02:59 PM
Thursday, January 26, 2017 3PM
Troxclair invites Hyatt rep to speak just before the vote. He signals continued umbrage. “We firmly object” to later music hours. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:03 PM
Rep is Ross Hamilton of JCI Hospitality. He claims hotels were left out of discussions involving city, venues, residents. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:05 PM
Planning Commission recommends Council negotiate MUD consent agreement. Read more: https://t.co/JwonbMI5O2 #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:05 PM
Hamilton says he still opposes the ordinances. MPT Tovo encourages hotel groups to collect data for renewal talks 6 months from now. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:06 PM
CM Flannigan questions whether special complaint hotline created in pilot is duplicative of 311. January 26, 2017 03:08 PM
Flannigan worries that pilot is being set up for failure. Concerns aired today will poison data to be reviewed in October, says he. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:09 PM
CM Garza: I have concerns about pilot programs like this. Says it reminds her of “the TNC thing.” #atgov January 26, 2017 03:11 PM
Garza worries the program will create jobs for six months but complaints will kill it, leaving naught but blame n’ ill feelings for #atxgov. January 26, 2017 03:12 PM
CM Casar says he sees the pilot as a way to explore balance between residents’ quality of life while nurturing live music. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:17 PM
CM Houston: “Didn’t we start short-term rentals as a pilot? Look where that got us!” #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:18 PM
Alter asserts that she will be keeping an eye on pilot’s direct benefit to musicians and other industry workers. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:21 PM
Adler signals voting time, but MPT Tovo sneaks in final comments. Her “uppermost concern” is residents in n’hoods north of downtown. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:22 PM
Item 19
Item 19 passes 9-1-1, Houston opposed, Garza abstaining. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:23 PM
Item 22
Onwards to Item 22: Resolution supporting Austin Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:25 PM
Flyovers on hold after CTRMA, TxDOT spat. Read more (via @cubbie9000): https://t.co/jAuOkRPOLE #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:30 PM
Item 22
First speaker on Item 22, avowed dog disapprover Robert ‘Crocodile’ Corbin says he disapproves of dogs. Specifically dogs in parks. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:31 PM
Council unanimously approves Items 22 and 23. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:34 PM
Item 37
Item 37 now, a raft of nominations to boards n’ commissions. CM Pool raises objections to Flannigan’s pick for Enviro Commission. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:38 PM
Pool’s concerns stem from Lawrence Jacobi’s ties to the nuclear industry. Wants to ppd for more information. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:39 PM
Flannigan vigorously defends Jacobi but says he will accede to balance of Council. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:41 PM
Flannigan refuses to withdraw his nomination. #atxgov https://t.co/g1luGfSCHE January 26, 2017 03:44 PM
Two speakers, incl. Sierra Club’s Roy Waley asks for rejection of Jacobi. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:44 PM
Pool offers sub motion to pass raft of nominees except Jacobi. Alter seconds. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:45 PM
Clarifying on the dais now that the motion is to approve all other nominees but take no action on (rather than reject) Jacobi. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:47 PM
Kitchen airs concerns but says she’s against ppd on Jacobi. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:48 PM
Flannigan again airs his preference for an up or down vote. Says if there is a ppd, he will withdraw Jacobi’s nomination. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:49 PM
Disco. https://t.co/t15g5v9njf January 26, 2017 03:50 PM
Troxclair: “Diversity of thought is okay.” She asks Pool whether the D7 rep has spoken to Jacobi. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:51 PM
Pool responds that she just saw his name on the list today and looked at his website: https://t.co/zZPbGe9cOO (h/t @DanKeshet). #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:52 PM
Adler says, “This is a hard one.” Harkens back to 10-1’s original dais discussions about nominating theory. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:54 PM
Adler says CMs should have prerogative to request more time to examine each other’s nominees. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:56 PM
CM Renteria: “I don’t think anything good is gonna come out of this delay.” Sides with up-or-down vote. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:57 PM
Casar notes he likely disagrees w/ Jacobi on certain principles, but no info yet that he’s “unfit to serve or antithetical” to job. #atxgov January 26, 2017 03:59 PM
Thursday, January 26, 2017 4PM
CM Houston is uncomfortable talking about Jacobi since he’s not here. Says she puts her trust in Flannigan’s judgment. #atxgov January 26, 2017 04:00 PM
Council votes to postpone Jacobi’s nomination. Unanimously approves the rest of the slate. #atxgov January 26, 2017 04:03 PM
Item 40
Council approves Item 40 (11-0), activating the Music n’ Creative Ecosystem Omnibus. Mas, via @TheeChad: https://t.co/858NcrRhNJ #atxgov January 26, 2017 04:11 PM
Item 42
Council moves to Item 42, textile recycling. According to @JackCraver, it sounds drier than it actually is: https://t.co/dq9Uki4Lrn #atxgov January 26, 2017 04:13 PM
"@austinmonitor what was the outcome re: @SimplyRecycling ??"
@cityjane @SimplyRecycling It’s on right now. January 26, 2017 04:14 PM
Rep from Simple Recycling is up now with a Powerpoint presentation. Says he wants city to focus on *all* options for ATX residents. #atxgov January 26, 2017 04:18 PM
Gonna go through other speakers now. First up is a @D10ATX woman who wants to keep contract with Simple Recycling. #atxgov January 26, 2017 04:20 PM
Salvation Army’s Jan Gunter now up. Says there was an apparent agreement to ppd item, but Simple Recycling changed their minds. #atxgov January 26, 2017 04:23 PM
Gunter says Simple Recycling’s curbside pickup of old clothes is cutting in to SA’s operations, hurting local customers. #atxgov January 26, 2017 04:25 PM
HOT dollars in historic grants program go unspent. Read more (via @TheeChad): https://t.co/sRZVGOaOyo #atxgov January 26, 2017 04:30 PM
Troxclair asks why we’re talking about this if parties are cool with ppd. Mayor says we already started and now we can’t stop. #atxgov January 26, 2017 04:31 PM
That distant booming you hear from wherever you are is @andrewdobbstx testifying before Council right now. #atxgov January 26, 2017 04:32 PM
.@andrewdobbstx: “The bottom line is… we cannot drive these people (Simple Recycling) out of business.” #atxgov January 26, 2017 04:34 PM
.@andrewdobbstx is also keen on finding a solution that satisfies nonprofits like Salvation Army and Goodwill. #atxgov January 26, 2017 04:35 PM
Speaking of Goodwill, the outfit’s rep now up. She complains of giving a “for-profit company from Ohio” curbside pickup privilege. #atxgov January 26, 2017 04:37 PM
Goodwill rep also says they’ve seen a 1.5% drop in donations in the months since Simple Recycling hit the ground. #atxgov January 26, 2017 04:37 PM
Discussion of textile recycling briefly disrupted by reporter’s ringing cell phone. Scowls across the chambers. Discussion resumes. #atxgov January 26, 2017 04:44 PM
Garza says she wants a compromise to keep SR and please nonprofits. Suggests problem for nonprofits is marketing to public. #atxgov January 26, 2017 04:45 PM
Kathy Hurwitz from the Assistance League up now. She acknowledges her group is the “little dog” among the nonprofits. #atxgov January 26, 2017 04:46 PM
Hurwitz: Our org “lives or dies on donations.” Donations that Simple Recycling is picking up, she adds. #atxgov January 26, 2017 04:47 PM
"@austinmonitor https://t.co/bPqCCcxmKO"
@SomewhereinATX cc @JeffStensland January 26, 2017 04:48 PM
Goodwill Austin COO takes the lectern. Cites unanimity of opposition among nonprofits against “for-profit co. from Dayton, Ohio.” #atxgov January 26, 2017 04:52 PM
.@muelleratx Simple Recycling. Curbside clothes recyclers. https://t.co/dq9Uki4Lrn January 26, 2017 04:55 PM
Speakers are done. Adler acknowledges that every speaker asked for a one-week ppd. Gets a motion and a second on that. #atxgov January 26, 2017 04:56 PM
Thursday, January 26, 2017 5PM
Troxclair: “I don’t often speak for everyone on the dais…” But, she says, nonprofits play an irreplaceable role in the community. #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:00 PM
Troxclair said that, as is, she would vote to cancel Simple Recycling’s contract. Wants to see substantial compromise next week. #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:01 PM
MPT Tovo “wants to underscore what CM Troxclair said.” Says it’s hard for her to see herself not cancelling SR’s contract. #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:02 PM
Renteria warns of implications of breaking commitments in contracts. #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:03 PM
No enemy of compromise, Mayor Adler says his preferred option is to preserve contract while keeping nonprofits happy. #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:04 PM
Item 40
Council votes 11-0 to ppd Item 40 for a week. #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:05 PM
Item 50
Moving to Item 50, approval of the Parkland Events Task Force’s 70-page final report. #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:07 PM
Alter: “It’s really important that we as a council recognize enormous amount of work that went into this report.” #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:09 PM
Alter says she’ll bring a resolution next week with directives to staff regarding the report’s recommendations. #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:11 PM
Hey, look! @TheeChad wrote about the Parkland Events Task Force in December: https://t.co/aSmH0kGX4m #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:12 PM
On Pool’s motion and Alter’s second, Council votes 11-0 to approve Parkland Events Task Force’s final report. #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:14 PM
Item 51
Adler now seeking ppd of Item 51, an annexation item. 246 acres just south of Wells Branch Pkwy. #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:15 PM
Citing ongoing PID negotiations with developer, Casar says he’s happy to support ppd. #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:17 PM
CM Houston notes that the PID negotiations Casar mention are between the developer and #TravCo, not the city. #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:18 PM
Tovo raises concerns about the PID and possible affordable housing. Points out that AH costs in PIDs are covered by PID residents. #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:23 PM
Whereas, generally AH inside city limits is paid for by city at large. #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:23 PM
Adler reiterates his request to establish a PID policy. Expresses frustration at handling these annexation cases on an ad hoc basis. #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:25 PM
Alter asks about the costs of the potential annexation. Staff says “it’s a revenue neutral analysis.” #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:27 PM
Greg Guernsey points out that the developer will cover cost of infrastructure and that maintenance will be low for first 30 years. #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:27 PM
CM Houston says that annexation “makes for sprawl.” Decries lack of transit on the edge of town. #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:28 PM
Houston, cont’d: Existing infrastructure is failing. Annexations are taking scarce maintenance resources. #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:30 PM
MUD deal coming for Moore’s Crossing? Read more: https://t.co/zqOAGsg2ZI #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:30 PM
Guernsey says whether the land is annexed or not, they will likely be developed n’ those residents are gonna use city resources. #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:32 PM
Flannigan wants ppd to focus on “comprehensive annexation policy.” #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:33 PM
Guernsey asks Adler to clarify that this was an “indefinite postponement.” #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:34 PM
We now move into the live music section of today’s meeting. Your diligent Moniteers are heading to dinner. Back at 6:45. #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:36 PM
Item 51
CORRECTION: Final vote on Item 51 was 10-1, Tovo the lone no. #atxgov January 26, 2017 05:37 PM
"@austinmonitor Umm.."
@DanKeshet What’s the matter, Daniel? January 26, 2017 05:38 PM
Thursday, January 26, 2017 6PM
Dinners scarfed, Council resumes. #atxgov January 26, 2017 06:49 PM
First item is 46: Nixing supermajority req. for Historic Landmark Commission to endorse historic zoning over owner’s objection. #atxgov January 26, 2017 06:51 PM
Hey, look! @JoClifton78704 wrote about this very issue! https://t.co/pawfH6j2jz #atxgov January 26, 2017 06:52 PM
Important clarification: The item here would only initiate the process to amend the code to remove the supermajority requirement. #atxgov January 26, 2017 06:53 PM
First speaker, ANC President David King, urges a yes vote here. #atxgov January 26, 2017 06:54 PM
Next speaker is a former leader of Preservation Austin. Says a simple majority at HLC should be needed for Council’s consideration. #atxgov January 26, 2017 06:57 PM
Now Preservation Austin’s executive director Kate Singleton is up. Claims no other city has supermajority requirement for HLCs. #atxgov January 26, 2017 06:58 PM
Thursday, January 26, 2017 7PM
Now up: Glen Coleman, repping the Homebuilders’ Association. Wants a ppd or look at alternative HLC members to help w/ absenteeism. #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:03 PM
Next speaker says he moved to Austin in 1991. Liked the amount of history then. Says there’s less history now. #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:05 PM
Speaker holds a his yellowing copy of Jacobs’ “Death and Life of Great American Cities.” Cites its argument for older housing stock. #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:07 PM
MPT Tovo moves approval. “We ought to have ability to review cases that majority of HLC indicate meet criteria.” #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:09 PM
Tovo says her review found that many cases supported by staff and residents lost zoning recommendation due to one or two HLC members #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:12 PM
Alter distills Tovo: Staff recommends historic zoning, majority of HLC approves, but no supermajority, thus demo w/o Council review. #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:13 PM
Staff points out that if HLC recommends historic zoning over owner’s objection, it still needs 3/4 approval from Council. #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:16 PM
We’re now reviewing slides of recent cases to come out of HLC. Among them, the Montopolis Negro School. https://t.co/w8GI8jO2M3 #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:19 PM
Tovo invites Historic Preservation Officer Steve Sadowski to comment on these three cases. #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:20 PM
Sadwoski sings of each home’s historic virtues. #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:23 PM
Each of the homes came up short of the necessary 8 votes at HLC by one or two votes. Adler notes that absenteeism was a big culprit. #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:25 PM
CM Houston suggests fee to start historic zoning plus HLC members’ behavior forestalls some preservation. #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:30 PM
Spending time here talking about how to help homeowners initiate historic zoning (this item is about zoning over their objections). #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:33 PM
Back on track now. Flannigan asks about HLC’s volume. Sadowsky, laughs: “It is a very busy commission!” #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:35 PM
Sadowsky says “in the vast majority” of cases, HLC recommends okaying demolition. #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:36 PM
Flannigan: “I’m very hesitant about changing rules on commissions.” Also notes that HLC membership will change soon. #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:36 PM
Further, Flannigan notes we’re on the eve of CodeNEXT. Raises concerns about changing land use rules right now. #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:37 PM
To some chuckles, Tovo says she appreciates that new HLC commissioners are coming. But adds that absences could still be problemo. #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:38 PM
Tovo insists on setting a system in place to make it such that one or two commissioners can’t hijack the process. #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:40 PM
Garza admits to being torn. Wants to protect against one or two rogue HLC cats. But also worries that Sadowski has too much power. #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:44 PM
Before cases go to HLC, they all go before Sadowski. He then picks and chooses which have ‘potential’ for historic zoning. #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:45 PM
Adler says he’s leaning towards voting for initiating code change. Adds that he has no idea how he’ll vote when/if it comes back. #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:51 PM
Alter, a former Parks Commissioner, asks Council to consider commissioners’ perspective. #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:52 PM
Alter says it’s demoralizing to any commissioner who works hard only to see Council ignore recommendations. #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:53 PM
Alter suggests HLC members have it even harder because a majority could support historic zoning and it wouldn’t even get to Council. #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:54 PM
Item 46
And Item 46 passes, 9-2. Troxclair and Garza voting no. #atxgov January 26, 2017 07:56 PM
"@austinmonitor What is the total annual HLC case volume? Are we talking about thousands of units demolished that HLC could stop? Or dozens?"
@juliogatx More than 900, including partial demolitions. January 26, 2017 07:57 PM
Item 79
Council now takes up Item 79, rezoning of 7901 FM 2222. Owner wants to build an office. #atxgov
January 26, 2017 07:59 PM
Thursday, January 26, 2017 8PM
Or rather, owner wants to put in a music school. #atxgov
(tweets may be spotty for a few moments while we commit… https://t.co/hLbxLqqa8N
January 26, 2017 08:10 PMItem 79
Back in action! Item 79 just passed, 7-4. Alter, Tovo, Pool, Kitchen opposed. #atxgov January 26, 2017 08:46 PM
Item 80
Item 80 time. Rezoning of 4714 S. Congress Ave. Owner wants to go from mixed-use to vertical mixed-use. #atxgov
January 26, 2017 08:47 PM
P&Z Dir. Guernsey says site can currently take up to 153 housing units. Change would allow 253. #atxgov January 26, 2017 08:48 PM
Applicant’s representative notes that VMU doesn’t increase existing 60′ building height. Only the density increases. #atxgov January 26, 2017 08:49 PM
70mm letterbox look at the current occupant of the property. #atxgov https://t.co/cAWmP8Q7Z3 January 26, 2017 08:51 PM
RT @JimmyFlannigan: “Asking for a height variance is a tall order” may be my favorite line of the night #atxcouncil January 26, 2017 08:52 PM
South Congress Combined N’Hood Contact Team Chair Mario Cantu now takes the lectern. #atxgov January 26, 2017 08:55 PM
Cantu starts his six minutes with a slide show illustrating Austin concerns. Homelessness, public safety, flooding, etc. #atxgov January 26, 2017 08:57 PM
Flooding, in fact, proving to be the prevailing theme here. #atxgov January 26, 2017 08:58 PM
Thursday, January 26, 2017 9PM
Cantu also mentioned affordable housing concerns. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:01 PM
Another resident of the S. Congress combined area now up. Asks for rejection of requested change. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:03 PM
He says project doesn’t help S. Congress Combined plan’s goal of mixed use on corridor because S. Congress already has mixed use. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:05 PM
Speaker’s slide suggests extra traffic from development will “pour gasoline on fire.” #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:06 PM
Done with speakers. Applicant’s rep up now for closing remarks. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:08 PM
Rep says new development will require retention pond that doesn’t currently exist. Also will have fewer car trips. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:09 PM
Rep also says developer is offering 10% of units at 60% MFI, better than is required. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:12 PM
Renteria moves approval with affordability and height conditions. Pool seconds. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:14 PM
Garza addresses traffic concerns. Notes that 801 is on Congress. Says the hope is that residents of corridor VMUs utilize transit. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:18 PM
Item 80
First reading of Item 80 is approved unanimously. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:22 PM
Item 82
We’re on the last item of the night, Item 82. Rezoning of 4411 S. Congress Ave. Another request to go from MU to VMU. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:29 PM
Owner is up now. Says the V can give him an extra ~60 units on top of the ~150 he can build now. 23 would be, he says, “affordable.” #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:30 PM
Says he wants to do 5% of units at 60% MFI and 5% of units at 80%.
#atxgov January 26, 2017 09:31 PM
#atxgov January 26, 2017 09:31 PM
Tovo asks owner to explain the numbers. We just got a bunch of math. Everyone at the media table is dizzy. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:33 PM
Alter asks for more information about what the market rate for housing is in the specific neighborhood. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:38 PM
Alter wants to know how it compares to 80% of citywide MFI. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:38 PM
Owner says market rate is $1,400, whereas 80% would be $1,000. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:39 PM
Cantu of the contact team is back up. Says all parties have to be consistent: City, contact teams, developers. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:40 PM
Cantu points to project under this item and its differences w/ similar project across the street (discussed in the preceding item) #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:41 PM
Cantu warns of strains new development puts on infrastructure. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:43 PM
Cantu now links ‘compact and connected’ idea of Imagine Austin to teen suicides, asthma, Houston flooding. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:44 PM
Last speaker asks Council to at least ask the developer to donate to improvements for area park. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:46 PM
Garza commiserates with residents who want more affordable housing. Says before she was elected she wanted Council to do more, too. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:48 PM
Garza concedes now though that Council cannot legally get more than requirements set by law. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:49 PM
Kitchen requests staff look into and report back on watershed issues on this property and previous item’s before second reading. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:50 PM
Someone just burped into a microphone. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:52 PM
RT @TopherJNeely: I can vouch for this. Everyone on the dais oddly played it cool though, didn’t skip a beat #atxcouncil https://t.co/MlxDr… January 26, 2017 09:54 PM
Item 82
Renteria moves approval of Item 82, with a few conditions re: affordability. Pool offers height amendment (“60′ from ground-up”). #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:55 PM
Item 82
Item 82 is approved on first reading. 8-2, Tov and Alter opposed, Casar of the dais. #atxgov January 26, 2017 09:57 PM
Thursday, January 26, 2017 10PM
And that’s it, gang. Thanks for tuning in. Dig our team’s crack coverage of today’s fun in tomorrow’s https://t.co/p6Y9TLS1ko #atxgov January 26, 2017 10:00 PM
City Council
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Key Players & Topics In This Article
Austin City Council: The Austin City Council is the body with legislative purview over the City of Austin. It offers policy direction, while the office of the City Manager implements administrative actions based on those policies. Until 2015, the body contained seven members, including the city's Mayor, all elected at-large. In 2012, City of Austin residents voted to change that system and as of 2015, 10 members of the Council are elected based on geographic districts. The Mayor continues to be elected at-large.
