OLD WEST AUSTIN NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, March 7, 2006
I
Call to Order
Meeting called to order at 7:02 p.m.
II
Minutes of previous September meeting were approved.
III
Austin Clean Water Program
Stan Evans and Bridget Shea spoke on COA’s efforts to improve sewer system
performance to prevent overflows. They are identifying issues w/ the sewers in
the W5th & W6th sewers and their feeders. This will protect our groundwater.
Galaxy Cafe
Kelly Chappell and Chris presented their plans on renovation and conversion of
the now closed Kwik Wash laundromat, to a neighborhood restaurant. Plans are
to open in mid-summer.
SOS Proposed Charter Amendments
Bill Bunch presented on two city charter amendments.
SOS amendment: 1) Implement Scientific Consensus 2) Directs development
downstream, 3) Prohibits development subsidies, 4) Minimizes grandfathering.
Open Government Online Amendment addresses public oversight and
participation, provides enormous cost savings and efficiencies and provides
citizen comments on permitting and contracting projects approvals, and facilitates
open meetings. Motion for OWANA to endorse both amendments passed w/ 1
abstention and 1 opposition.
IV
WEAA Meeting Report (Laura Morrison)
Laura reported that WEAA had joined the Townlake Trail Association and
suggested that OWANA may desire to join as well. It was noted that our
neighborhood benefits to a large degree from the amenities of the trail. A motion
passed recommending OWANA join the Townlake Trail Association for a
membership fee of at least $100, the actual membership fee to be finalized by the
steering committee. (passed w/ 1 opposition) Laura provided an update on Whole
Food’s music on the 2nd story plaza noise issue, and also reported on a new
alliance of downtown neighborhood associations.
V
OWA NP Contact Team Report (Laura Morrison)
There will be a meeting on April 22, from 10am to 12noon at the Clarksville
Community Center to determine the use of the remaining funds from the
Neighborhood Planning Funds (~$5k). Proposed uses include street sign toppers,
landscaping of the off leash park and use in restoration of the Haswell house.
A new zoning classification called Vertical Mixed Use Zoning (VMU) is being
implemented as a temporary measure pending the adoption of the Commercial
Design Standards. VMU provides incentives and requires mandatory mixed use,
as opposed to allowing mixed use. Various zoning conditions are relaxed with
this classification. Neighborhood groups have a 90 day window to petition to opt
out of 3 loosened conditions, 1) Bldg cover, 2) Floor to Area Rations (FAR) and 3)
Minimum Site Area Coverage. A motion passed for OWANA to endorse VMU,
but opt out of relaxed FAR, Bldg Cover, and Minimum Site Area Coverage
requirements, but remains interested in possible use of these relaxed requirements
in the future in an area by area basis. (1 opposition, 4 abstentions)
VI
Austin Neighborhoods Council Report (Linda McNeilage)
Linda reported on discussions including Transit Oriented Districts (TOD’s),
Bonds pushed from the May ballot to Nov., efforts for historical designation for
the Riverside Golf Course, Cap Metro extending service to Katrina evacuees
locations, 4/22 – “It’s My Park Day”, and AISD’s efforts to close selected
elementary schools. This last issue seems to be in conflict with the city’s desire
for inner city densification. A motion passed stating OWANA opposes closing
Becker Elementary School and supports all inner city neighborhood schools. (4
abstentions)
VII
Committee Reports
Zoning (Jean Stevens)
1101 W. Lynn (formerly Croft’s): Plans were presented on proposed solution,
petition for variances to be pursued in the future.
504 Oakland –plans discussed for Pilates studio on the 1st floor and residential on
the 2nd floor. Possible zoning change to GR-H, CO, MU, NP.
Galaxy Cafe – Motion to support beer and wine license passed w/ 4 opposed, 1
abstention. (Anne P Simpson requested it be recorded that she opposed this)
1007/1009 Baylor –Reported that both houses would be moved.
1200 Lorrain - Board of adjustments granted variances.
5th & Pressler – Plans have been announced for mixed use w/ retail on 1st floor
and 160 units above. Developer desires 60’ height variance from current 40’
allowable.
Encinal Condo – Unit 301 was purchased.
Membership and Fundraising Committee
Saralyn Stewart has declared her interest in passing on her chair duties. Chris
Schorre graciously stepped up to the challenge. Many thanks to Saralyn for her
years of tireless and excellent performance.
“The Party of the Year”, OWANA’s silent and live auction is to be held 3/30.
Public Safety Committee (Richard McCown)
Report on Police Chief Forums.
Beverly Dunn presented the neighborhood’s request for 25mph speed limits, and
the Patterson Ave resident’s efforts towards sidewalk additions between 6th and
9th Sts.
Historic Preservation Committee (Rosemary Merriam)
Historic Neighborhood Permit process established.
VIII
Administrative and Organizational Issues
Treasurer’s Report (Jean Stevens)
Jean Stevens reported
General Funds account - $7,341.23
Fundraising account $20,513.48
Zoning targeted account - $7,417.09
IX
Adjourn
The meeting was adjourned at 10:00 p.m.