Notice: We would like to thank Bob Hamilton for his last four years of service on the West Austin Neighborhood Group Board of Directors and for his service to the neighborhood. We now have three open seats on the Board and welcome inquiries from neighbors who wish to help Preserve & Protect the Neighborhood. wang-board@westaustinng.com

by Holly Reed

This week the Austin City Council will vote on three Land Development Code Amendments that will have an unprecedented impact on Austin’s neighborhoods. There is still time to speak up on these proposals.

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

Write and call Mayor Watson and Austin City Council Members before Wednesday May 16th and ask them to postpone action on the Land Development Code amendments and direct staff to create a new Zoning District that incorporates the elements of H.O.M.E. (Phase 1 and 2) to replace Ordinance No. 20231207-001. Applications for this District and Neighborhood Plan Amendments could be considered contextually on a case-by-case basis through the regular zoning process. This would accommodate both the Council’s objectives for greater density opportunities and the community’s interest in having contextual decision-making in which the public can participate.

Contact your City Council Representatives:

· Mayor: Kirk.Watson@austintexas.gov 512-978-2100

· District 1: Natasha.Madison@austintexas.gov 512-978-2101

· District 2: Vaness.Fuentes@austintexas.gov 512-978-2102

· District 3: Jose.Velasquez@austintexas.gov 512-978-2103

· District 4: Jose.Vela@austintexas.gov 512-978-2104

· District 5: Ryan.Alter@austintexas.gov 512-978-2105

· District 6: Mackenzie.Kelly@austintexas.gov 512-978-2106

· District 7: Leslie.Pool@austintexas.gov 512-978-2107

· District 8: Paige.Ellis@austintexas.gov 512-978-2108

· District 9: Zohaib.Qadri@austintexas.gov 512-978-2109

· District 10: Alison.Alter@austintexas.gov 512-978-2110

City.Clerk@austintexas.gov

Speaker registration is now open and closes at 4:30 pm on Tuesday, May 14. Registration can be completed by phone (512-974-2210), in person at the Office of the City Clerk, Suite 2030, City Hall, 301 W. 2nd Street, or online:

https://www.austintexas.gov/department/city-council/council/council_meeting_info_center.htm

will affect our neighborhoods:

WANG Letter to Planning Commission and Council

Be on the look-out for our Spring Print Newsletter, coming to your mailbox soon!

We send out a "Printed" newsletter TWICE per year which gets distributed to every household

The City of Austin is sponsoring this Community Meeting to provide an opportunity for nearby residents and ANY other interested parties to discuss the proposed Plan Amendment and Zoning change requests

Tuesday, May 21, 2024, 6:00pm to 7:30pm

Friends of Reed Park is making a major push to spread news about the Watershed Protection Department's proposed plan to permanently change Reed Park!

You may have heard about this plan over the last year, however our group recently had the chance to dig into the detailed designs of the plan. We've analyzed their plan technically and had calls with the folks at Watershed to learn more. Most recently we re-visited a similar Watershed project that is farther along at Battle Bend Park in South Austin, as we were told it is most comparable to what they envision for Reed Park.

Our conclusion after investigating the Watershed Plan closely: WE ARE ADAMANT THAT IT IS NOT A GOOD THING FOR REED PARK!

The Watershed Plan will drastically change the use and character of Reed Park forever. We are firmly of the opinion that the City can and should find a better way to meet their goals than by drastically changing a significant portion of Reed Park. The Plan is still in its design phase and we are hopeful that if the Watershed Department faces significant neighborhood opposition, it can be stopped!

We need you to help to stop this plan! Here’s how:

1. Watch our 3-minute video to learn more about the Watershed Plan and why we oppose it.
2. Sign our petition.
3. Email the people in charge: Mayor Watson, Council Member Alison Alter, and at Parks & Rec and the Watershed Protection Department.
4. **Find suggested email and email addresses on our website **
5. Spread the word - please forward this email to your networks in Austin! We need everyone who loves and cares about Reed Park to know about this.
6. Visit Friends of Reed Park and SUBSCRIBE HERE so you can stay up to date on the proposed Watershed plan and all things Reed Park. Follow us on Instagram for daily updates, as well.

Keep informed and Follow "Friends of Reed Park" on Instagram

@ the Mayor’s office:
Alexis Garcia, Parks and Open Spaces advisor to Mayor Kirk Watson: https://www.austintexas.gov/email/alexisgarcia

@ the City Council:
District 10 Council Member Alison Alter:
district10@austintexas.gov

@ the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department:
Kimberly.McNeeley@austintexas.gov
Liana.Kallivoka@austintexas.gov
Charles.Mabry@austintexas.gov
Ricardo.Soliz@austintexas.gov

@ the Watershed Protection Department of the City of Austin:
Lee.Sherman@austintexas.gov
Matt.Harold@austintexas.gov
Kshitiz.Gyawali@austintexas.gov

from Juliette Madere

Hello Everyone!

I hope you all took some time to enjoy nature this Earth Month before the hot weather sets in! Out on the median, the wildflowers are in full bloom (pictures below!). On the tip, the firewheel and black eyed susan are really exploding, and the patch of primrose and winecups are looking really lovely as well.

So many flowers this year!

We are running a little short on funds, so donations are much appreciated! Here are some of the items on our wish list that your donations will go towards purchasing: Extra pea gravel for the path, little bluestem seedlings, butterfly weed (A. tuberosa), and a second desert willow.

If you would like to donate, checks can be made out to Lifeblood of Gaia and mailed to

Lifeblood of Gaia

1903 Stamford Lane

Austin, TX 78703

Or money can be sent via Zelle to lifebloodofgaia@gmail.com.

Thanks so much! 🙂🙏

Juliette Madere,

Manager

Lifeblood of Gaia

by Blake Tollett

· Call to Order by Holly Reed at 6:06 pm.

Present: Holly Reed, Cathy Kyle, Blake Tollett, Joe Bennett, Joyce Basciano, Mary Arnold, David Bolduc, Sarah Hawthorne Cain

Absent: Mike Cannatti, George Edwards, Craig Lill, Heidi Gibbons

· Minutes from April 2024 meeting were approved unanimously.

· Neighbor Communications/Announcements

· Reed Park update: City’s plan would change the playfield to a detention pond. WANG agreed to support the Friends of Reed Park’s proposals for alternate WPD project. Plans for the WPD project and a petition to oppose the plan are available here: https://www.change.org/p/stop-the-proposed-watershed-plan-at-reed-park

· Casis Shopping Center has come under new ownership leading to some rumored changes. No plans have been confirmed, but we will continue to watch.

· Ashika Ganguly is running for City Council D10 spot after CM Alter’s term expires. Ashika came to the meeting to introduce herself to the Board and neighbors.

· Land Matters

• · H.O.M.E. Phase 2, Compatibility Changes, ETOD, went before Planning Commission on 4/23 and 4/30. President Reed invited the neighbors attending the Board meeting to give their thoughts about the H.O.M.E. ordinance, asking whether they supported the ordinance. They uniformly oppose it. The proposed ordinance calls for a minimum lot size of 1500-2000 sq ft, and could build house on each lot zoned SF 1, 2, or 3. Setbacks would also have to be reduced –0-5’ for side setback and zero front setback are being discussed. The neighbors expressed a significant concern for loss of green space and loss of trees. HOME will also stress the city’s existing infrastructure.

• § WANG has recommended that the ordinance include a “small lot” category to allow builders to apply for a development with greater density. President Reed circulated a letter sent to the Planning Commission by WANG on 4/22/24 expressing concerns about the proposed ordinance.

• · 2614 Exposition - Rawson Saunders Re-zoning and Neighborhood Plan Amendment—the applicant seeks to change the zoning from SF-3-NP to GO-MU-NP (general office/mixed use) and would increase the building footprint from 17K sq ft to 70K sq ft. Initially, the church and Rawson-Saunders said that they were staying, but now that’s in dispute based on the rezoning application. Blake Tollett described an alternative process to rezoning using variance to SF-3 for more building entitlements. Schools and churches are allowed uses for SF zoning category. The proposed rezoning would give more entitlements to the owner and will increase the value of the properties. We would hope for greater transparency; no one has been provided any site plans or drawings.
• The neighbors have received notice from Thrower Design of a zoom meeting with the developers on 5/21. The developer/applicant has not contacted WANG.

· Newsletter/E-Newsletter/Website

· Spring Newsletter, E-Newsletter – Mary Arnold will write an article about Muny’s Centennial Celebration. The deadline for submission is 5/8/24.

· ANC Report

· Representatives from the Austin Transit Partnership came to ANC’s 4/24/24 meeting. They gave a presentation on the current status of the Austin Light Rail Implementation Plan. It was reported that the planning is ongoing, but nonetheless, they are moving full steam ahead in applying for a Federal grant. Also, a full analysis of the plan’s impact under Title VI (1964 Civil Rights Act) is underway.

· Cara Bertron with the City’s Planning Dept. Preservation Office is working on Equity Based Preservation Plan with a group of 26 residents from 19 different zip codes, representing a diverse group. This is an initiative of the Historic Landmark Commission. The plan is at www.publicinput.com/ATXpresplan and the digital toolkit is at www.bit.ly/austinpresplan.

• · ANC adopted a resolution regarding the HOME ordinance.
• · Barbara McArthur gave an in-depth update on HOME Phase 2, Compatability and ETODs.

· Treasurer’s Report

• o Frost Business Checking $ $9268.71
• o Business Savings $ $1228.00
• o 4thof July Tarrytown Parade $ 515.00

· Items from Board Members

· Important Upcoming Dates:

• o 5/10 -- Forever Green Tournament benefiting Muny Conservancy.
• o 5/9 -- 19th Hole Party at Charles Johnson House (American Legion House)

· New Business – Next meeting is June 10, 2024, at Howson Library.

· Adjourn meeting at 7:45 pm.

by Council Member Alison Alter

Latest District 10 Newsletter

Dear Neighbors,

Over my two terms, I have worked to bolster our community’s climate resilience and meet our zero-waste goals. April is Earth Month and in this newsletter I want to share some of the earth-friendly initiatives I’ve championed as your representative at City Hall.

Climate Emergency Resolution & Austin’s Climate Equity Plan

In 2019, Council unanimously passed my resolution declaring a climate emergency. The resolution called for an immediate and coordinated mobilization to restore a safe climate, including:

• Accountability and reporting to clarify climate leadership responsibilities

• Amplified community engagement on climate policy

• Aggressive targets to reach net-zero goals

• Policy ideas to mitigate the effects of the climate crisis, like the establishment of resilience hubs

• Alignment of emergency management plans to prepare for and respond to natural hazards

This resolution played a key role in shaping Austin’s Climate Equity Plan (2021), which accelerated our net-zero emissions goal to 2040 and outlined strategies to achieve a just transition. The plan sets aggressive interim targets and addresses the disproportionate impacts of the climate emergency on historically underrepresented people. It also emphasizes the important role that the electrification of transportation and green jobs can play as we transition. I led an implementation resolution to ensure the success of the plan.

Austin Civilian Conservation Corps

Inspired by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, I launched the Austin Civilian Conservation Corps (ACCC) in 2020 to help our community achieve our conservation and climate goals while creating jobs and training for those most impacted by the pandemic. Through partnerships with City departments and external partners, this workforce development program is creating pathways to desirable careers that support our outdoor spaces and our green infrastructure. ACCC’s vision and work were recognized by The Corps Network with the Project of the Year Award in 2022. Learn more about the ACCC here.

Zero Waste Efforts and Household Hazardous Waste Pickup Service

During my first term, I piloted recycling in District 10 parks and then collaborated to expand recycling in parks across the City. Building on these efforts, in 2022, I worked with Austin Resource Recovery (ARR) to pilot home pickup of hazardous waste in District 10 and District 4. I am proud to say this program is continuing! District 10 residents in the ARR service zone can schedule a home pickup for paint cans, lightbulbs, batteries, and more here.

Austin Energy’s Generation Plan

In 2022, I initiated a review and revision of our 2030 Austin Energy Resource, Generation, and Climate Protection Plan in light of recent energy market changes. The plan update is underway – learn more and find engagement opportunities at publicinput.com/generation.

UT-City Climate Co-Lab

Last summer, I worked with UT faculty and city staff to establish a UT-City Co-Lab that will drive Austin-specific innovation, research, and policy related to issues like urban heat trends and the impact of climate change on our water supply. This partnership was formalized through the FY24 budget process, and we are already seeing new opportunities to utilize the Co-Lab at the City.

PARD Land Management Plan

Austin has over 10,000 plus acres of natural area in our parks system, which are both beloved and under stress from climate change. We also have an ever-present risk of wildfire, which means we need strong systems for managing brush, debris and fire fuels. That is why I led the creation and the adoption of an Austin Parks and Recreation Land Management Plan to improve the climate resilience of our parks and preserve areas and mitigate our wildfire risks. During the fiscal year 2024 budget cycle, I secured funding and staffing to accelerate the implementation of this important plan. Read more in my October newsletter.

Prohibited Dangerous Chemicals on City Owned Land

In 2018, I authored a resolution which prohibited the use of chlorpyrifos and neonicotinoid pesticides and limited the use of glyphosate on city-owned land. These chemicals are often found in commercial pesticides and can be harmful to human health and animals, including pollinators. Prohibiting them helps keep our greenspaces and watersheds safer.

Over the years I have been proud to work with Council colleagues, City staff, and community members towards our shared goals of urgent climate action and investments in our resilience. Together we have advanced many additional initiatives and our community is better prepared and more engaged on our emissions and waste reduction efforts.

In the remainder of this letter, I will share some City resources to help you go green, zero-waste leadership opportunities, budget and land development code updates and engagement events, and more.

Regards,

Alison Alter

Council Member, District 10

This year Lions Municipal Golf Course is 100 years old! Events are happening throughout the year to honor this historic public golf course in the heart of Austin. As the first public course to integrate in the south, Muny is a nationally recognized Civil Rights Landmark. Despite its incredible history, essential open green space with hundreds of heritage trees, water recharge zone and wildlife refuge, needed now more than ever in this growing City, MUNY is still in danger of being closed and paved over as a luxury mixed use development. We must not let this happen!

Please join WANG in celebrating MUNY’S CENTENNIAL by supporting the effort to SAVE MUNY. Visit www.savemuny.com for information on how you can help!

Let’s all work together to Save Muny for many generations to come.

SAVE THE DATE: OCTOBER 3rd 2024 MUNY’S CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION sponsored by the Founder Lions Club of Austin and the Muny Conservancy.

Parade, Proclamations, Music, Golf Tournament and MORE!

Stay tuned for more information and photos from the 19th Hole Party and Forever Green Tournament 2024!

by Wizzie Brown

Spring seems to have arrived in Central Texas and my mountain laurels are putting on blooms. If you’re like me and enjoy going in for a good sniff of those grape candy smelling flowers, while you’re there take a look around for caterpillars that may be munching on foliage. Genista caterpillars can be quite common on mountain laurel but may also be found on crape myrtle and honeysuckle.

These caterpillars can grow up to one inch in length and are greenish yellow to orange in color with small black and white dots along their body. They have hairs that emerge along the body but are not densely covered. Genista caterpillars create webbing like that of webworms, but to a lesser degree. Larvae, or caterpillars, feed on leaves within webbing causing defoliation of the plant. Eggs are laid in overlapping clusters on the underside of leaves. Pupation occurs in a small, white silken cocoon that is attached to plants or structures. There are two generations per year.

Normally genista caterpillars do not cause significant damage to trees, so no management is required. If you feel management is needed because of a large population, it can be rather simple. If plant size allows, caterpillars can be hand-picked and either smashed or dropped in a bucket of soapy water. Other options may include insecticidal soap, horticultural oils, botanicals, spinosad, or Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki, also known as Bt. Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki specifically targets caterpillars but does not distinguish between “good” and “bad” caterpillars, so be careful where you apply it and be aware of drift that may occur. When using spinosad or Bt, good coverage of plant foliage is essential since the caterpillars need to consume a lethal dose. When using any pesticide product, be sure to read and follow all label instructions.

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SEND YOUR COMMENTS TO HELP US MAKE IT BETTER

Organized 1973......"To preserve our neighborhood and protect it from deterioration"

Board of Directors

• President: Holly Reed President@westaustinng.com
  
• Secretary: Cathy Kyle Secretary@westaustinng.com
• Assistant Secretary: Blake Tollett AsstSecretary@westaustinng.com
• Treasurer: George Edwards Treasurer@westaustinng.com
• Past President: Cathy Kyle PastPresident@westaustinng.com

All Current Members (click on name to send email)

• Holly Reed ............................member since 2015 (President)
• Cathy Kyle ............................member since 2010 (Secretary)
• Blake Tollett .........................member since 1994 (Asst Secretary)
• George Edwards ..................member since 2004 (Treasurer)
• Mary Arnold .........................member since 2006 (Muny Tract)
• Michael Cannatti .................member since 1999 (CWANPCT)
  
• Joseph M Bennett ...............member since 2001 (Membership/E-Newsletter)
• Craig Lill ...............................member since 2017
  
• Joyce Basciano ...................member since 1999
• Sarah Hawthorne Cain.........member since 2020 (Advertising)
• Heidi Gibbons.......................member since 2020 (ANC Liason)
• David Bolduc ........................member since 2023
• Open board seat
• Open board seat
• Open board seat

Honorary Committee Members

• Honorary Kirk Watson
• Honorary Alison Alter

Contact your City Council Representatives:

(click on name to send email)

· Mayor: Kirk.Watson@austintexas.gov 512-978-2100

· District 1: Natasha.Madison@austintexas.gov 512-978-2101

· District 2: Vaness.Fuentes@austintexas.gov 512-978-2102

· District 3: Jose.Velasquez@austintexas.gov 512-978-2103

· District 4: Jose.Vela@austintexas.gov 512-978-2104

· District 5: Ryan.Alter@austintexas.gov 512-978-2105

· District 6: Mackenzie.Kelly@austintexas.gov 512-978-2106

· District 7: Leslie.Pool@austintexas.gov 512-978-2107

· District 8: Paige.Ellis@austintexas.gov 512-978-2108

· District 9: Zohaib.Qadri@austintexas.gov 512-978-2109

· District 10: Alison.Alter@austintexas.gov 512-978-2110

Email All of the Council: Entire Council and Mayor

Click on the link City Stage photo above

(Austin Center for Events)

for more info of everything happening around Austin !!!!

events are linked to more info on each

_________________________________________________________________________________________

DON'T MISS THE PHOTOS BELOW SENT IN FROM OUR NEIGHBORS

The Deep Eddy area neighbors had a potluck "Block Party" in April. They had a great turnout of about 35-40 Neighbors, many of which have lived in the neighborhood 30 to 50 plus years. They were also able to celebrate long time resident, Jeff Sikora's 78th Birthday!

SEND US YOUR PHOTOS ! to include in our "Around the Neighborhood"

Send Photos with description to Newsletter@westaustinng.com

EMERGENCY.......................................911

Fire......................................................911

Ambulance (EMS) .............................911

Police Dept.......................512-975-5000

Austin ISD......................................512-533-6000

Casis Elementary School.............512-414-2062

Austin High School.......................512-414-2505

O.Henry Middle School...............512-414-3229

City of Austin........................................512-494-9400

Texas Gas Service.............................1-800-700-2443

Grande Communications...................512-220-4600

AT&T (new service)...........................1-800-464-7928

Time Warner Cable (Cust. Svc)...........512-485-5555

Austin/Travis Hazardous Waste.........512-974-4343