TipSheet: Austin City Council, 11.2.23

Anyone who watched this Tuesday’s work session is probably already prepared for what looks to be a smooth meeting today. Though there are a number of items on the agenda that caught our attention, it’s telling that none warranted further discussion on Tuesday. We’re guessing that might lead to a (now typical) meeting that will be over at a reasonable hour.

While the city continues to stir over a handful of fast-tracked changes to the Land Development Code, a major change has already fast-tracked its way through the process and is ready for approval today. After winning unanimous support at the Planning Commission, the ordinance that would eliminate parking requirements in the city (aside from accessible parking spaces) is ready for approval today. The concept is exceedingly simple, but here’s the staff report if you need more.

In another proposed change, City Council will consider a resolution from Council Member Ryan Alter that looks to minimize barriers to house relocation in the city. The measure has Preservation Austin’s support, both because it has the potential to save historic homes by relocating them and because it thwarts the waste and environmental irresponsibility of demolition.

Speaking of waste, Council will also vote to adopt (or reject!) the 2023 comprehensive plan for Austin Resource Recovery. The plan is an update to the 2011 master plan that includes goals like electrification of ARR’s vehicle fleet and on-call bulk pickup.

As we reported on Wednesday, Council is also thinking ahead to the next eclipse with a resolution that seeks to shore up resources for the event, which is expected to draw crowds to the area. And, in other event news, it’s also time for the yearly South by Southwest ordinance that waives and modifies normal requirements in order to let the fest proceed. This year, it comes with an added “pilot” provision that will allow nonprojected special event signs. Specifically, the ordinance will permit up to seven 5,000-square-foot signs, three 10,000-square-foot signs, four 12,000-square-foot signs and one 20,000-square-foot sign.

And, in order to get itself in line with new state regulations on parkland dedication fees, the city will also hold a public hearing to officially designate urban, suburban and central business district boundaries.

In terms of zoning, it looks to be kind of a slow day, though the Hyatt West PUD amendment could be interesting. Last time it was before Council, it was provisionally approved, though there are lingering questions about water use.

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