TipSheet: Travis County Commissioners 5.26.15

The Travis County Commissioners Court meets at 9 a.m. Tuesday. In the interest of space, we’ve decided not to post the entire agenda here. The County Clerk’s office hosts a copy at its website.

Items of interest include:

4. Accept the following donations in honor of Kristin McClain: a. Tac Air Rappel vest from Capewell Aerial Systems LLC; and b. Memorial improvements at the STAR Flight Hangar by City of Austin Communications Medics and Services. (Commissioner Shea & Commissioner Daugherty)

Monitor’s Take: This item would formally accept two donations in memory of Kristen McClain, the STAR Flight nurse who died in the line of duty last month. According to the backup material, the City of Austin Communications Medics and Services is offering to plant a memorial tree and flower bed at the STAR Flight hangar.

5. Consider and take appropriate action regarding revisions to the mass gathering permitting process, including: a. Recommendations to streamline the application process; and b. Designation of the Travis County Fire Marshal’s Office as the coordinating agency for receipt of applications for mass gathering permits. (This item may be taken into Executive Session under the Consultation with Attorney exception.) (Commissioner Daugherty & Commissioner Gómez)

Monitor’s Take: An item that’s been kicking around for several weeks, this originated with the increasing popularity of Carson Creek Ranch near ABIA as an outdoor venue for special events. Concern from neighbors over noise, light, and increased traffic prompted the Commissioners Court to consider reforming the permitting process.

19. Consider and take appropriate action to receive an annual report from Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority regarding status of any financial obligation of the Authority to the County. (Judge Eckhardt)

Monitor’s Take: This item comes courtesy of a state law passed in 2009 that requires Capital Metro to provide the County an annual report on the “status of any financial obligation.” According to a letter from CapMetro President Susan Watson, the agency owes the County more than a million dollars under two separate interlocal agreements. Tuesday’s briefing should shine more light on how that money will be spent.