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	<title>West Austin Neighborhood Group &#187; Development</title>
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	<link>http://westaustinng.com</link>
	<description>Preserving and Protecting West Austin</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Fri, 30 Jul 2010 20:51:51 +0000</lastBuildDate>
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		<title>City of Austin Comprehensive Plan Being Created &#8212; Get Involved!</title>
		<link>http://westaustinng.com/2009/10/19/city-of-austin-comprehensive-plan-being-created-get-involved/</link>
		<comments>http://westaustinng.com/2009/10/19/city-of-austin-comprehensive-plan-being-created-get-involved/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:49:54 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Austin Comprehensive Plan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Brackenridge Tract Development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Neighborhood Planning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Zoning & Codes]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://westaustinng.com/?p=767</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The City of Austin is creating a new Comprehensive Plan for Austin which will set forth the city's policies for growth and development.  Find additional information at http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/compplan.	]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h4>City of Austin Comprehensive Plan</h4>
<p>The City of Austin is creating a new Comprehensive Plan for Austin which will set forth the city&#8217;s policies for growth and development.  The existing Comprehensive Plan (the Austin Tomorrow Comprehensive Plan (ATCP)) was developed during the 1970s and adopted in 1979, but even with various amendments and updates, the ATCP remains a product of its time and does not address many contemporary issues facing the City such as sustainability and climate change.  The lack of a contemporary, community-based vision for the City&#8217;s future has lead to many &#8220;ad hoc&#8221; policy directives.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/compplan/cp_process.htm">An overview of the Comprehensive Plan process</a> for the next two or so years is available, including a recent “Comprehensive Plan Kick-Off” Event.</p>
<p>The City has posted a <a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/compplan/survey.htm">survey</a> to obtain citizen input on some of the questions from the October 12 Kick-Off Event concerning what makes Austin great and what could be improved.  Survey answers will form the foundation of the first <strong>Community Forum Series</strong>, the week of November 9.</p>
<p>In addition, Comprehensive Plan Citizens Advisory Task Force is being formed.  <a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/compplan/downloads/CitizensAdvCmte-Application.doc">The application form for the Comprehensive Plan Citizens Advisory Task Force</a> is available for download.  Interested in serving, or know someone who might be perfect for the task force? Fill it out or pass it on. Instructions for submitting the application are included.</p>
<p>Sign up to receive all email updates from the  Comprehensive Planning Staff at NPZD: &lt;<a title="blocked::http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/zoning/contact_info_ncp.cfm" href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/zoning/contact_info_ncp.cfm">http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/zoning/contact_info_ncp.cfm</a>&gt;.  Please  help encourage city-wide participation in OUR Comprehensive Plan<br />
by  forwarding this information.   Individuals&#8217; involvement can be minimal or extensive &#8212; but the  sooner<br />
they tune it, the more sense it will make as we proceed&#8230;</p>
<p>Additional information is posted at <a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/compplan/">http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/compplan/</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
		<title></title>
		<link>http://westaustinng.com/2009/10/02/745/</link>
		<comments>http://westaustinng.com/2009/10/02/745/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 02 Oct 2009 18:40:51 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Events]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://westaustinng.com/?p=745</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[[ October 2, 2009 2:00 pm to October 7, 2009 11:59 pm. October 2, 2009 2:00 pm to October 7, 2009 11:59 pm. ] TDHCA – Homeless Housing and Services Program (HHSP)
Survey for Stakeholders

 The Texas State Legislature has appropriated funding for services that prevent or address homelessness in Texas cities. The City of Austin Health and Human Services Department (HHSD) is seeking your feedback about the areas that can make the most difference in addressing needs of the homelessness. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p align="center"><strong>TDHCA – Homeless Housing and Services Program (HHSP)</strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong>Survey for Stakeholders</strong></p>
<p> The Texas State Legislature has appropriated funding for services that prevent or address homelessness in Texas cities. The City of Austin Health and Human Services Department (HHSD) is seeking your feedback about the areas that can make the most difference in addressing needs of the homelessness. We anticipate Austin will receive approximately $900,000 each year for the next two years (total $1.9M).</p>
<p>The funds are managed by Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. The intent is to meet the most critical needs in the state’s eight largest cities. Cities are allowed to fund a broad range of direct services and/or construction projects.</p>
<p>The City’s goal is to support 1 &#8211; 2 projects that can quickly demonstrate their ability to successfully address homelessness and are the most needed in our community. HHSP funds will support services that are not currently part of the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Programs.</p>
<p>Please click on the following link to complete the survey by <strong><strong>close of business <span style="color: #ff0000;">October 6, 2009</span></strong></strong>. This survey contains three questions.</p>
<p> <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a title="blocked::http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=XJZPA6GaEhZSAvxKUMKx5g_3d_3d" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=XJZPA6GaEhZSAvxKUMKx5g_3d_3d" target="_blank">http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=XJZPA6GaEhZSAvxKUMKx5g_3d_3d</a></span></p>
<p>Responses are anonymous, unless you provide contact information.</p>
<p>HHSD will use this feedback as we develop the City’s application to TDHCA and in our process for contracting with nonprofit agencies providing these services.</p>
<p>Thank you</p>
<p>The Human Services Division Austin/Travis County Health and Human Services Department</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>WANG Press Release Concerning CR&amp;P Planning Suggestions for Brackenridge Tract</title>
		<link>http://westaustinng.com/2009/07/01/wang-press-release-concerning-crp-planning-suggestions-for-brackenridge-tract/</link>
		<comments>http://westaustinng.com/2009/07/01/wang-press-release-concerning-crp-planning-suggestions-for-brackenridge-tract/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2009 22:08:23 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Brackenridge Tract Development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Environment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Neighborhood Planning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[WANG]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://westaustinng.com/wordpress/2009/07/01/wang-press-release-concerning-crp-planning-suggestions-for-brackenridge-tract/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[July 1, 2009 Statement by August W. Harris III, President, West Austin Neighborhood Group (WANG):  West Austin Neighborhood Group Deplores Brackenridge Tract Planners’ Suggestions and Continues to Seek Best Use for Core Suburban Spaces]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Statement by August W. Harris III </strong></p>
<p><strong>President, West Austin Neighborhood Group (WANG) Board of Directors</strong></p>
<p><strong>July 1, 2009</strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong>West Austin Neighborhood Group Deplores Brackenridge Tract Planners’ Suggestions </strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong><em>Neighborhood Organization Continues to Seek Best Use for Core Suburban Spaces</em></strong></p>
<p>“WANG, as the only organized neighborhood association serving as a voice for and protecting property owners in the immediate area of the Brackenridge Tract and as one of the key community organizations that has worked tirelessly to provide guidance and input before and during the planning process, adamantly opposes Cooper Robertson&#8217;s master plan recommendations.”</p>
<p>“WANG calls upon the University of Texas System Board of Regents to reject both master plans submitted by Cooper Robertson &amp; Partners.”</p>
<p>“WANG is pleased that Chairman Huffines has expressed an earnest desire to continue dialogue on this sensitive matter.”  </p>
<p>“WANG is grateful that Chairman Huffines stated resolutely that the leases to the City of Austin for Lions Municipal Golf Course and to the West Austin Youth Association for its youth sports and educational complex as well as the 1989 Brackenridge Tract agreement will be honored until their expiration in 2019.” </p>
<p>“WANG recognizes that both the Village Plan and the Park Plan dramatically fail to propose truly sustainable redevelopment of the Brackenridge Tract in a manner that will benefit all while retaining and protecting the existing character of the surrounding core suburban community and its invaluable open space.  Instead it proposes residential densities as much as four (4) times that of the award winning Mueller Redevelopment.  Mueller is recovered industrial land adjacent to two (2) major arterials, not parkland and lower density residential, retail, and academic tracts located in a core suburban neighborhood served by three (3) neighborhood collectors. The overall size, scale and thrust of the Cooper Robertson &amp; Partners master plans are entirely inappropriate in proposing an incredibly massive mixed use, residential and commercial project.” </p>
<p>“WANG is dismayed at Cooper Robertson &amp; Partners’ failure to address the overwhelming traffic problems that would be created by either Plan, both plans’ lack of compatibility with the adjacent core suburban neighborhood, significant open space, deference to the distinguished history of the Tract, and consideration of public sentiment.  Both plans also fails to address the detrimental effect the project would have on the reputation of The University of Texas at Austin.” </p>
<p>“WANG looks forward to continuing its work with the University of Texas System Board of Regents, the University of Texas at Austin, the City of Austin and other key stakeholders to arrive at a mutually beneficial and sustainable solution for the Brackenridge Tract.”</p>
<p align="center">###</p>
<p>Contact:  August Harris    <a href="mailto:august.harris@westaustinng.com">august.harris@westaustinng.com</a>       512-320-8808</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Austin Energy Tree Trimming/Pruning/Removal</title>
		<link>http://westaustinng.com/2009/06/24/austin-energy-tree-trimmingpruningremoval/</link>
		<comments>http://westaustinng.com/2009/06/24/austin-energy-tree-trimmingpruningremoval/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 24 Jun 2009 15:15:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Environment]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://westaustinng.com/wordpress/?p=374</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[As detailed in the June 16, 2009 letter from Austin Energy posted at www.westaustinng.com/AustinEnergyLetterJune162009.pdf, Austin Energy will be pruning and removing trees in our neighborhood near power lines &#8220;to ensure the safety of our customers and maintain reliable electric service.&#8221;  Before any tree work is done, property owners will be notified beginning in late June, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>As detailed in the June 16, 2009 letter from Austin Energy posted at <a href="http://www.westaustinng.com/AustinEnergyLetterJune162009.pdf">www.westaustinng.com/AustinEnergyLetterJune162009.pdf</a>, Austin Energy will be pruning and removing trees in our neighborhood near power lines &#8220;to ensure the safety of our customers and maintain reliable electric service.&#8221;  Before any tree work is done, property owners will be notified beginning in late June, 2009 so that Austin Energy can work to reach agreements with the property owners on the work to be performed on their property.  The full notification process and list of property owner options or rights are listed in the above-referenced letter.  You can also contact Craig Stoughton (505-7546) or Ray Henning (322-6930) from Austin Energy with any questions or concerns. </p>
<p>Please take a moment to view this important  <a href="http://www.westaustinng.com/AustinEnergyLetterJune162009.pdf">Tree Trimming Information</a> so you will know your rights concerning the trimming of <strong>your trees</strong> around the city’s power lines.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Helpful Links List</title>
		<link>http://westaustinng.com/2009/05/13/helpful-links-list/</link>
		<comments>http://westaustinng.com/2009/05/13/helpful-links-list/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2009 09:27:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Crime]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Historic Preservation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[History of Austin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Neighborhood Planning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Zoning & Codes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[City of Austin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[helpful links]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LHD]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://westaustinng.com/wordpress/?p=172</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[


Neighborhood Planning Information


Central West Austin Combined Neighborhood Planning Area Website
West Austin Neighborhood Group &#8220;Neighborhood Plan&#8221; (Adopted May, 1986)


Survey Results re Proposed Development of Austin State School Property (January, 2005)
Survey Results of West Austin Neighborhood re Residential Compatibility Standards (aka &#8220;McMansion Ordinance Survey&#8221;) (April, 2006)


Brackenridge Tract Development Agreement
Neighborhood Planning Library and Resources (information about neighborhood planning, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="5">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" align="center" valign="top" bgcolor="#cccccc"><strong>Neighborhood Planning Information</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="275" valign="top"><a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/zoning/central_west_austin.htm">Central West Austin Combined Neighborhood Planning Area Website</a></td>
<td width="275" valign="top"><a href="http://www.westaustinng.com/neighborhoodplan.pdf">West Austin Neighborhood Group &#8220;Neighborhood Plan&#8221; (Adopted May, 1986)</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="275" valign="top"><a href="http://www.westaustinng.com/SurveySummary.pdf">Survey Results re Proposed Development of Austin State School Property (January, 2005)</a></td>
<td width="275" valign="top"><a href="http://www.westaustinng.com/SurveyResults.htm">Survey Results of West Austin Neighborhood re Residential Compatibility Standards (aka &#8220;McMansion Ordinance Survey&#8221;) (April, 2006)</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="275" valign="top"><a href="http://www.westaustinng.com/BrackenridgeAgreement.pdf">Brackenridge Tract Development Agreement</a></td>
<td width="275" valign="top"><a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/zoning/library.htm">Neighborhood Planning Library and Resources</a> (information about neighborhood planning, land use, zoning, neighborhood plan special uses and design tools, front yard parking, mapping, and other Austin city plans)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="275" valign="top"><a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/zoning/owa.htm">Old West Austin Neighborhood Plan (June 29, 2000)</a></td>
<td width="275" valign="top"><a href="http://westaustinng.com/wordpress/2009/04/02/neighborhood-planning-information/">Visit the WANG Neighborhood Planning page for more info </a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="275" valign="top"></td>
<td width="332" valign="top"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" align="center" valign="top" bgcolor="#cccccc"><strong>Zoning &amp; Code Information</strong><strong><br />
</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="275" valign="top">City of Austin <a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/development/pierivr.htm">Interactive Building Plans, Permits &amp; Inspection Request</a> (search for building plans and permits by address) <a href="http://www.traviscad.org/">Travis Central Appraisal District</a> <a href="http://www.main.org/neighbor.php" target="_blank width=600,height=400">Neighborhood Association Web sites</a> <a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/development/" target="_blank width=600,height=400">City of Austin Zoning &amp; Planning Dept</a> (Neighborhood Planning and Zoning issues)<strong> </strong></td>
<td width="275" valign="top"><a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/development/zoning2.htm" target="_blank width=600,height=400">Summary of Residential Zoning Requirements</a> <a href="http://inic.utexas.edu/%7Ebennett/__cwd/Zon_101.htm">Austin Zoning &#8220;101&#8243; Presentation</a> <a href="http://www.westaustinng.com/resource.rtf">Download Neighborhood Resource Guide (.rtf format)</a> <a href="http://www.ancweb.org/">Austin Neighborhoods Council (ANC)</a> <a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/neighbor/default.htm">Services for Austin Neighborhoods </a><a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/smartgrowth/" target="_blank width=600,height=400">Smart Growth Initiative</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="275" valign="top"></td>
<td width="275" valign="top"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="4" width="275" valign="top"><strong>Links to City Services</strong><a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/police/crimestats.htm" target="_blank width=600,height=400">Austin Police Dept. Neighborhood Crime Stats</a> <a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/animals/hltlser.htm" target="_blank width=600,height=400">Animal Shelter</a> (708-6000)Animal Control for loose or dangerous animals, (708-6000), or call 911. Dead Animal Pickup: (494-9400) Monday through Friday between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. For Saturday pickup, call (848-8838) between 8 a.m. and noon. Solid Waste Services will remove dead animals if they are on public streets or placed on the curbside.<a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/bicycle" target="_blank width=600,height=400">Bicycling Information</a> (505-5606)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/help/directory_a.htm" target="_blank width=600,height=400">City of Austin Directory</a> (Start with the Public Information Office, (499-2220) if you need help figuring out whom to call.)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.main.org/events.php" target="_blank width=600,height=400">Calendars</a> City, AISD, UT and more.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.cityofaustin.org/ca">Construction Awareness Information System</a> To obtain information about on-going construction projects that may affect your travel through Central Austin, click <a href="http://162.89.0.115/ca/central.cfm">here</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.electric.austin.tx.us/" target="_blank width=600,height=400">Electric Utility</a> (322-9100)</p>
<p>Graffiti Hot Line (473-4125)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/sws/hhw.htm" target="_blank width=600,height=400">Hazardous Waste</a> (499-2111) (batteries, pesticides, paints, solvents, cleansers, etc.)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/health/" target="_blank width=600,height=400">Health &amp; Human Services Dept.</a>(469-2188)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/oakwilt/" target="_blank width=600,height=400">Oak Wilt information</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/parks/default.htm" target="_blank width=600,height=400">Parks Department</a> (call 974-6700 to express concerns about park grounds and facilities; Park Police 974-7707)</p>
<p>Potholes (440-8444)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/sws/" target="_blank width=600,height=400">Solid Waste</a> (trash pickup and the reporting of brush piles in public spaces)</p>
<p>Street light problem reporting (505-7617)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/roadworks/" target="_blank width=600,height=400">Traffic Calming</a> (and the reporting of neighborhood traffic problems)</p>
<p>Utility locator (472-2822) ONE CALL marks your property for underground utility lines you might damage by digging.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/greenbuilder/protectedtree.htm" target="_blank width=600,height=400">Tree Permits and Protection</a> (what are protected trees and permit requirements from Austin&#8217;s Green Building Program) (974-1876 <a href="mailto:jim.rhoades@ci.austin.tx.us">Jim Rhoades e-mail</a>)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/greengarden/plantlist.htm">Trees &#8211; Grow Green Program</a> (Native and adapted plant guide) (974-2446 or <a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/connect/email_kathyshay.htm">Kathy Shay e-mail</a>)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/watercon/" target="_blank width=600,height=400">Water Conservation</a> (974-2199)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/water/" target="_blank width=600,height=400">Water and Wastewater</a> (emergency number 972-1000)</td>
<td width="275" valign="top"><strong>Austin Police Department &#8211; Web Links</strong> (Emergencies: 911, Non-emergencies: 311)<strong>The following links are to assist you in keeping up with recent Austin Police Department news releases and other information. You can periodically check them for updated information.</strong><strong> </strong><a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/police/neighbor_crime.htm">Crimes reported within the boundaries of neighborhood associations</a></p>
<p>News/ Press Releases on Events Making the News: <a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/police/apd_news.htm">http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/police/apd_news.htm</a></p>
<p>V.I.N. Etching Dates: <a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/police/vinetch.htm">http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/police/vinetch.htm</a></p>
<p>APD District Representative for West Austin,<br />
Senior Police Officer Nicole Gray #3466<br />
CWNAC District Representative<br />
Austin Police Department<br />
Central West, North Area Command<br />
512-974-5241 <a href="mailto:nicole.gray@ci.austin.tx.us">nicole.gray@ci.austin.tx.us</a><a href="mailto:David.Knutson@ci.austin.tx.us"></a> <strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"><strong>Austin History</strong><strong> </strong><a href="http://www.heritagesocietyaustin.org/" target="_blank width=600,height=400">Heritage Society of Austin</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.cityofaustin.org/library/ahc/briefhistory.htm" target="_blank width=600,height=400">History of Austin &#8211; Austin History Center</a></p>
<p><a href="http://216.39.194.247/visit_whyvisit_history.html" target="_blank width=600,height=400">History of Austin &#8211; Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"><strong>Helpful Information </strong><a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/">Austin City Connection</a> <a href="http://www.austin-chamber.org/"></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.austin-chamber.org/">Austin Chamber of Commerce</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="left" valign="top"><strong>Neighborhood Restaurants</strong> <a href="http://www.botany.utexas.edu/mbrown/mbrownhome/moreland/hh.html"></a><a href="http://www.botany.utexas.edu/mbrown/mbrownhome/moreland/hh.html">Holiday House</a> 2425 Exposition (478-2652) (RIP)</p>
<p><a href="www.abelsonthelake.com">Abel&#8217;s On The Lake</a>, 3825 Lake Austin Blvd. (904-0572) (<a href="http://www.lucysboatyard.com/menu.htm"></a>no menu)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.maudies.com/maudiescafe.html">Maudie&#8217;s Cafe</a>, 2608 W. 7th (473-3740) (<a href="http://www.maudies.com/Maudiecafemenu.htm">menu</a>)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.mangiapizza.com/">Mangia&#8217;s Pizza</a>, 2401 Lake Austin (478-6600) (<a href="http://www.mangiapizza.com/menu.htm">menu</a>)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.cafemagnolia.com/">Magnolia Cafe</a>, 2304 Lake Austin Blvd. (478-8645) (<a href="http://themagnoliacafe.com/menu/">menu</a>)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fabiandrosi.com/index.html">Fabi and Rosi</a>, 509 Hearn (236-0642) (<a href="http://www.fabiandrosi.com/fabi_and_rosi_appetizer_menu.html">menu</a>)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.brickovenon35th.com/">Original David&#8217;s Brick Oven</a>, 1608 W. 35th (453-4330)</p>
<p>(<a href="http://www.brickovenon35th.com/PDF_Menus/Lunch.pdf" target="_blank">Lunch Menu</a> and <a href="http://www.brickovenon35th.com/PDF_Menus/Dinner.pdf" target="_blank">Dinner Menu</a>)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.foodfoodmenu.com/">Food!Food!,</a> 2727 Exposition Blvd. (474-8515) (<a href="http://www.foodfoodmenu.com/sandwich.html">sandwich menu</a>)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.mozartscoffee.com/">Mozart&#8217;s</a>, 3825 Lake Austin Blvd (477-2900)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.hulahut.com/">Hula Hut</a>, 3825 Lake Austin Blvd (476-4852) (<a href="http://www.hulahut.com/menu.html">menu</a>) <a href="http://www.caffeteo.com/"></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.caffeteo.com/">Téo Espresso, Gelato &amp; Bella Vita</a> 26 Doors Shopping Center (451-9555)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.thundercloud.com/home.html">ThunderCloud Subs</a>, 2308 L. Austin Blvd. (479-6504<br />
FAX: 479-0440<br />
<a href="http://ordering.bigholler.com/ThunderCloudSubsLAB/" target="_blank">ORDER ON-LINE!</a>) (<a href="http://www.thundercloud.com/menu.html">menu</a>)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="275" valign="top"></td>
<td width="332" valign="top"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" align="center" valign="top" bgcolor="#cccccc"><strong>Governmental Contacts </strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="275" valign="top"><strong>Austin City Council</strong><a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/council/contacts.htm" target="_blank width=600,height=400">Complete Detailed Information Here</a></p>
<p>Mayor Will Wynn<br />
Phone: (512) 974-2250 Fax: (512) 974-2337<br />
E-mail: <a href="mailto:Will.Wynn@ci.austin.tx.us">Will.Wynn@ci.austin.tx.us</a></p>
<p>Place 1 &#8211; Council Member Lee Leffingwell<br />
Phone: (512) 974-2260 Fax: (512) 974-3212<br />
E-mail: <a href="mailto:Lee.Leffingwell@ci.austin.tx.us">Lee.Leffingwell@ci.austin.tx.us</a></p>
<p>Place 2 &#8211; Council Member Mike Martinez<br />
Phone: (512) 974-2264 Fax: (512) 974-1887<br />
E-mail: <a href="mailto:mike.martinez@ci.austin.tx.us">Mike.Martinez@ci.austin.tx.us</a></p>
<p>Place 3 &#8211; Council Member Randi Shade<br />
Phone: (512) 974-2255 Fax: (512) 974-1888<br />
E-mail: <a href="mailto:Randi.Shade@ci.austin.tx.us">Randi.Shade@ci.austin.tx.us</a></p>
<p>Place 4 &#8211; <a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/council/dunkerley.htm">Laura</a> Morrison<br />
Phone: (512) 974-2258 Fax: (512) 974-1886</p>
<p>E-mail: <a href="mailto:Laura.Morrison@ci.austin.tx.us">Laura.Morrison@ci.austin.tx.us</a></p>
<p>Place 5 &#8211; Mayor Pro Tem Brewster McCracken<br />
Phone: (512) 974-2256 Fax: (512) 974-1884<br />
E-mail: <a href="mailto:Brewster.McCracken@ci.austin.tx.us">Brewster.McCracken@ci.austin.tx.us</a></p>
<p>Place 6 &#8211; Council Member Sheryl Cole<br />
Phone: (512) 974-2266 Fax: (512) 974-1890<br />
E-mail: <a href="mailto:sheryl.cole@ci.austin.tx.us">Sheryl.Cole@ci.austin.tx.us</a></td>
<td width="332" valign="top"><strong>Regional, State and Federal Gov&#8217;t</strong><br />
<a href="http://www.campotexas.org/">Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization </a>(CAMPO)<a name="sen"><strong>Texas State Senators</strong></a></p>
<p><a name="sen"><strong> </strong></a>Senate District 14 &#8211; <a href="http://www.senate.state.tx.us/75r/senate/members/dist14/dist14.htm">Senator Kirk Watson</a> (463-0114 or <a href="mailto:kirk.watson@senate.state.tx.us">kirk.watson@senate.state.tx.us</a>)</p>
<p>Senate District 25: <a href="http://www.senate.state.tx.us/75r/senate/members/dist25/dist25.htm">Senator Jeff Wentworth</a> (463-0125 or <a href="mailto:jeff.wentworth@senate.state.tx">jeff.wentworth@senate.state.tx</a>)</p>
<p><a name="house"><strong>Texas State Representatives</strong></a></p>
<p>House District 46: State Representative Dawnna Dukes (463-0506 or <a href="mailto:dawnna.dukes@house.state.tx.us">dawnna.dukes@house.state.tx.us</a>)</p>
<p>House District 47: State Representative Valinda Bolton (463-0652 or <a href="mailto:valinda.bolton@house.state.tx.us">valinda.bolton@house.state.tx.us</a></p>
<p>House District 48: State Representative Donna Howard (463-0631 or <a href="mailto:donna.howard@house.state.tx.us">donna.howard@house.state.tx.us</a>) <strong> </strong></p>
<p>House District 49: State Representative Elliott Naishtat (463-0668 or <a href="mailto:elliot.naishtat@house.state.tx.us">elliot.naishtat@house.state.tx.us</a>)</p>
<p>House District 50: State Representative Mark Strama (463-0821 or <a href="mailto:mark.strama@house.state.tx.us">mark.strama@house.state.tx.us</a>)</p>
<p><strong> </strong>House<strong> </strong>District 51: State Representative Eddie Rodriguez (463-0674 or <a href="mailto:eddie.rodriguez@house.state.tx.us">eddie.rodriguez@house.state.tx.us</a>)</p>
<p><a name="rep"></a><strong>Texas</strong><strong> U.S. Representatives</strong></p>
<p>Congressional District 10 -<a href="http://www.house.gov/mccaul/">Michael T. McCaul</a> ((202) 225-2401 or <a href="mailto:michael.mccaul@mail.house.gov">michael.mccaul@mail.house.gov</a>)</p>
<p>Congressional District 21 &#8211; <a href="http://lamarsmith.house.gov/">Congressman Lamar Smith</a> (202-225-4236)</p>
<p>Congressional District 25 &#8211; <a href="http://www.house.gov/doggett/">Congressman Lloyd Doggett</a> (202-225-4865 or <a href="mailto:doggett@hr.house.gov">doggett@hr.house.gov</a>)</p>
<p><strong>Texas U.S. Senators</strong></p>
<p>U.S. Senator <a href="http://hutchison.senate.gov/">Kay Bailey Hutchison</a> (202-224-5922 or <a href="mailto:senator@hutchison.senate.gov">senator@hutchison.senate.gov</a>)</p>
<p>U.S. Senator <a href="http://cornyn.senate.gov/">John Cornyn</a> (202-224-2934 or <a href="mailto:senator@cornyn.senate.gov">senator@cornyn.senate.gov</a>)</p>
<p><strong>U.S. President</strong> President <a href="http://www.whitehouse.gov/president/">Barack H. Obama</a> (202-456-1414 or <a href="mailto:president@whitehouse.gov">president@whitehouse.gov</a>) <strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>United Nations</strong> Secretary-General Of The United Nations &#8211; The Honorable <a href="http://www.un.org/News/ossg/sg/pages/sg_biography.html">Ban Ki-moon</a> (Fax: (212) 963 2155 or <a href="mailto:sg@un.org">sg@un.org</a> or <a href="mailto:ecu@un.org">ecu@un.org</a>)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
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		<item>
		<title>Deed Restriction Tool for Protecting Neighborhood</title>
		<link>http://westaustinng.com/2009/04/06/deed-restriction-tool-for-protecting-neighborhood/</link>
		<comments>http://westaustinng.com/2009/04/06/deed-restriction-tool-for-protecting-neighborhood/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 06 Apr 2009 08:18:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Historic Preservation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nikelle Meade]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://westaustinng.com/wordpress/?p=125</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[At our May board meeting, Nikelle Meade, a partner with the Brown McCarroll law firm, presented information on how deed restrictions can be used as an effective tool for like-minded neighbors to protect their local neighborhood from over development.  WANG will work toward setting up a program to help small groups of neighbors (perhaps a [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>At our May board meeting, <a href="http://www.brownmccarroll.com/attorneys_detail.asp?ResumeID=403">Nikelle Meade, a partner with the Brown McCarroll law firm</a>, presented information on how deed restrictions can be used as an effective tool for like-minded neighbors to protect their local neighborhood from over development.  WANG will work toward setting up a program to help small groups of neighbors (perhaps a group of neighbors on a one or two street area) enact an agreed set of deed restrictions that would preserve the general &#8220;look and feel&#8221; of the street, or at least prevent the most offensive development outcomes.</p>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Taming the Teardown Trend</title>
		<link>http://westaustinng.com/2009/04/06/taming-the-teardown-trend/</link>
		<comments>http://westaustinng.com/2009/04/06/taming-the-teardown-trend/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 06 Apr 2009 08:16:17 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Demolition & Construction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Historic Preservation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[teardowns]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://westaustinng.com/wordpress/?p=123</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Across the nation and throughout our neighborhood, there are growing concerns that teardown trends are irreparably changing historic neighborhoods as fine historic homes are demolished to make way for much larger, new houses.  Too often, these oversized structures disrupt the architectural and historic character of the existing neighborhood, diminishing livability and destroying the amenities that [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Across the nation and throughout our neighborhood, there are growing concerns that teardown trends are irreparably changing historic neighborhoods as fine historic homes are demolished to make way for much larger, new houses.  Too often, these oversized structures disrupt the architectural and historic character of the existing neighborhood, diminishing livability and destroying the amenities that originally made the neighborhood an attractive place to live.</p>
<p>For this reason, the National Trust for Historic Preservation has released &#8220;<a href="http://www.hollywoodlakes.com/Teardowns.pdf">Protecting America&#8217;s Historic Neighborhoods:  Taming the Teardown Trend</a>,&#8221; a comprehensive report on strategies and best practice solutions being used in communities today to control teardowns.  This booklet, which is available by clicking <a href="http://www.hollywoodlakes.com/Teardowns.pdf">here</a>, empowers property owners, once defenseless against the changes sweeping through their neighborhoods, with necessary preventative tools to combat teardowns.  The report also offers viable alternatives for preservationists and local governments seeking to limit the teardown trend.</p>
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		<title>Tarrytown Shopping Center</title>
		<link>http://westaustinng.com/2009/04/06/tarrytown-shopping-center/</link>
		<comments>http://westaustinng.com/2009/04/06/tarrytown-shopping-center/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 06 Apr 2009 07:46:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[news]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tarrytown]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://westaustinng.com/wordpress/?p=101</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[News 8 Austin Article Regarding Tarrytown Shopping Center:  Click here to see an article entitled “Strict rules drive businesses out of shopping center,” describing recent developments about the Tarrytown Shopping Center.
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>News 8 Austin Article Regarding Tarrytown Shopping Center:  <a href="http://www.news8austin.com/content/headlines/?ArID=83167&#038;SecID=2">Click here to see an article entitled “Strict rules drive businesses out of shopping center,”</a> describing recent developments about the Tarrytown Shopping Center.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
		<title>Construction Awareness Information System</title>
		<link>http://westaustinng.com/2009/04/06/construction-awareness-information-system/</link>
		<comments>http://westaustinng.com/2009/04/06/construction-awareness-information-system/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 06 Apr 2009 07:34:36 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Demolition & Construction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[City of Austin]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://westaustinng.com/wordpress/?p=97</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The City of Austin Construction Awareness Information System is available to provide information about on-going construction projects that may affect your travel through the City.  At the City’s web site: www.cityofaustin.org/ca, click on the map to get project information and the latest news and meeting dates.  You can obtain construction information about Central [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The City of Austin Construction Awareness Information System is available to provide information about on-going construction projects that may affect your travel through the City.  At the City’s web site: <a href="http://www.cityofaustin.org/ca">www.cityofaustin.org/ca</a>, click on the map to get project information and the latest news and meeting dates.  You can obtain construction information about Central Austin Projects by clicking <a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/ca/central.cfm">here.</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Strategies for Preventing Improper Demolition and Construction</title>
		<link>http://westaustinng.com/2009/04/03/40/</link>
		<comments>http://westaustinng.com/2009/04/03/40/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 2009 16:24:03 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Demolition & Construction]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://westaustinng.com/wordpress/2009/04/03/40/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Helpful guide for West Austin Construction and Demolition, includes permitting, coding and zoning info.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><b>QUICK LINKS TO<br />
  PROTECTION STRATEGIES:</b></p>
<table border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0>
<tr>
<td width=220 valign=top>
<p><b><u>Demolition Strategies</u></b></p>
</td>
<td width=220 valign=top>
<p><b><u>Construction Strategies</u></b></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width=220 valign=top>
<p><a href="#DemoPermitReview">Review Demolition Permits on City Web Site by Street Address</a></p>
</td>
<td width=220 valign=top>
<p><a href="#KnowYourRights">Know Your Rights &#8212; Understanding Private Deed Restrictions and the City’s Zoning and Building Code Requirements</a></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width=220 valign=top>
<p><a href="#HistoricPropertyProtect">Prevent Demolition of Historic Properties by<br />
        Contacting Historic Landmark Commission</a></p>
</td>
<td width=220 valign=top>
<p><a href="#BuildingPlanReview">Review Building Plans for New Construction</a></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width=220 valign=top>
<p><a href="#LocalHistoricDistrict">Apply for Local Historic District Protection</a></p>
</td>
<td width=220 valign=top>
<p><a href="#ContactOwner">Contact Property Owner/Builder about Building Plans </a></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width=220 valign=top>
<p><a href="#NationalHistoricDistrict">Apply for National Historic District<br />
        Protection</a></p>
</td>
<td width=220 valign=top>
<p><a href="#CodeEnforcement">Contact City Building Inspector about Code Violations or Enforcement Concerns </a></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width=220 valign=top>
<p><a href="#DeedRestriction">Use Deed Restrictions to Protect Neighborhood</a></p>
</td>
<td width=220 valign=top>
<p><u><span style='color:blue'><a href="#VarianceZoningChanges">Challenging Zoning Changes and Variance Requests</a></span></u></p>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p align=center style='text-align:center'><b><u><span style='font-size:18.0pt'>DEMOLITION PROTECTION STRATEGIES</span></u></b></p>
<p><a name=DemoPermitReview><b><u>REVIEW DEMOLITION PERMITS ON CITY WEB SITE<br />
  BY STREET ADDRESS</span></u></b></a><b>:</span></b> To find out if a demolition permit has been granted<br />
  for a property, you can search for Building Plans which are filed with the<br />
  City’s building inspectors before construction or demolition activity<br />
  occurs. You can also search for Permits<br />
  which are granted and updated by the City’s building inspectors as the<br />
  construction or demolition activity occurs. </span></p>
<p>To find demolition permits and<br />
  plans, you can search the City’s web site (<a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/development/pierivr.htm">http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/development/pierivr.htm</a>)<br />
  by property address. Unfortunately, you<br />
  need to search for demolition permits at both the Permit Search site (<a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/pierivr/permit_menu.cfm">http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/pierivr/permit_menu.cfm</a>)<br />
  and the Building Plan search site (<a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/pierivr/building_plan_menu.cfm">http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/pierivr/building_plan_menu.cfm</a>)<br />
  by entering the street address of the property in question. The search results from the Permit Search<br />
  site will list “DEMO” in the description field for any demolition permits,<br />
  while search results from the Building Plan search site will <i>usually</i> include a “D” at the end of the<br />
  BP Number for any demolition permits.</span></p>
<p><a name=HistoricPropertyProtect><b><u>PREVENT DEMOLITION OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES<br />
  BY CONTACTING HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION</span></u></b></a><b>:</span></b> Currently, the City<br />
  Historic Preservation Office and the Historic Landmark Commission review<br />
  applications for demolition or relocation permits to determine whether a<br />
  building meets the criteria for designation as a historic landmark. The determination is made according to<br />
  objective criteria, but designed to protect those buildings with exceptional<br />
  significance to the city because of their architecture and historical<br />
  associations. </span></p>
<p>To determine if a property meets the criteria for<br />
  historic designation, see the</span> <a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/development/downloads/historic_landmark.pdf">City<br />
  of Austin Historic Landmark Designation Criteria</a> by<br />
  clicking</span> <a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/development/downloads/historic_landmark.pdf">here</a>. Generally speaking,<br />
  the property must at least (1) be 50 years old, (2) retain sufficient integrity<br />
  to convey its historic appearance and (3) be significant in at least two of the<br />
  following categories: architecture,<br />
  historical association, archeology, community value, or landscape feature. If you believe that a property meets the<br />
  criteria for designation as a historic landmark, please contact Steve Sadowsky,<br />
  Historic Preservation Office (974-6454 or </span><a href="mailto:steve.sadowsky@ci.austin.tx.us">steve.sadowsky@ci.austin.tx.us</a>) with your concerns, <u>and be sure to document all<br />
  communications you have</u>. <b><i><u></u></i></b></span></p>
<p><a name=LocalHistoricDistrict><b><u>APPLY FOR LOCAL HISTORIC DISTRICT<br />
  PROTECTION</span></u></b></a><b>:</span></b></p>
<p>In December 2004, the Austin City Council passed an amendment<br />
  making a number of changes to the historic preservation ordinances, including<br />
  allowing for the establishment of local historic districts by providing<br />
  rehabilitation incentives for properties in such districts. The City Historic Preservation Office is<br />
  developing nomination forms and other materials necessary for the<br />
  implementation of the historic districts. A <a href="Summary%20of%20HP%20ordinance%20changes%20-%20letter%20to%20property%20owners.doc">summary<br />
  of the new ordinance</a> that was sent out to landmark owners may be obtained<br />
  by clicking <a href="Summary%20of%20HP%20ordinance%20changes%20-%20letter%20to%20property%20owners.doc">here</a>. Another summary from the City of Austin Preservation<br />
  Officer, entitled “LOCAL HISTORIC DISTRICTS IN AUSTIN,” may be obtained by<br />
  clicking <a href="http://www.heritagesocietyaustin.org/localdistricts.pdf">here</a>. <b>THIS<br />
  IS BIG NEWS BECAUSE THE ORDINANCE MAY BE AN EXTREMELY USEFUL TOOL FOR OUR NEIGHBORHOOD.</b></span></p>
<p>According to the summary, tax abatements would be available<br />
  for qualifying improvements or rehabilitations. In addition, design standards for new construction within the district would<br />
  be provided to establish parameters for the design of new construction and to<br />
  provide neighbors within the district a higher level of comfort knowing that<br />
  new construction will be required to follow accepted design standards based<br />
  upon the existing architecture within the district. The district design standards will be<br />
  individually tailored to meet the needs of the particular district, and may<br />
  address building materials, height limits, and setbacks for new construction<br />
  within the district.</span></p>
<p><a name=NationalHistoricDistrict><b><u>APPLY FOR NATIONAL HISTORIC DISTRICT<br />
  PROTECTION</span></u></b></a></p>
<p>The<br />
  National Register of Historic Places is the nation’s official list of historic<br />
  properties worthy of preservation. Listing in the register is an honor and carries no direct restrictions. A common misconception is that houses in an<br />
  historic district cannot be remodeled or demolished. This is not correct. Under Federal law, owners of private property<br />
  listed in the National Register are free to maintain, manage, or dispose of their<br />
  property as they choose provided that there is no Federal involvement. Owners have no obligation to open their<br />
  properties to the public, to restore them or even to maintain them, if they<br />
  choose not to do so. </span></p>
<p>Benefits<br />
  of registration include: </span></p>
<p>·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span>Recognition for<br />
  historic importance of the Deep Eddy Heights area to our community,</span></p>
<p>·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span>Increased property<br />
  values (think of increased personal wealth),</span></p>
<p>·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span>Additional protection<br />
  from federal activities (think of MoPac),</span></p>
<p>·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span>Eligibility for tax<br />
  credits of 20 percent for the approved rehabilitation of income producing<br />
  properties (including duplexes, apartments and dwellings converted to office<br />
  uses) (think of renovating Deep Eddy Pool or Cabaret),</span></p>
<p>·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span>Qualification for<br />
  Federal grants for historic preservation, when funds are available.</span></p>
<p>Potential<br />
  drawbacks include the possibility that the City’s Historic Landmark Commission<br />
  might consider a listing on the National Register historic commission as part<br />
  of its determination of whether to deny a demolition permit. However, it appears that the Historic<br />
  Landmark Commission is no longer following this policy.</span></p>
<p>Additional<br />
  details about the qualification requirements and application process is<br />
  available at <a href="http://www.cr.nps.gov/nr/index.htm">www.cr.nps.gov/nr/index.htm</a> and at <a href="Deep%20Eddy%20Presentation.pdf">www.WestAustinNG.com/Deep%20Eddy%20Presentation.pdf</a>,<br />
  which is a summary of information collected regarding an earlier investigation<br />
  of pursuing historic district protection for the Deep Eddy Heights area.</span></p>
<p><a name=DeedRestriction><b><u>USE DEED RESTRICTIONS TO PROTECT NEIGHBORHOOD</span></u></b></a><b>:</span></b> At our May 2005<br />
  board meeting, <a href="http://www.brownmccarroll.com/attorneys_detail.asp?ResumeID=403">Nikelle<br />
  Meade, a partner with the Brown McCarroll law firm</a>, presented information<br />
  on how deed restrictions can be used as an effective tool for like-minded<br />
  neighbors to protect their local neighborhood from over development. A summary of the presentation, entitled<br />
  “Restrictive Covenants” is available by clicking <a href="Restrictive%20Covenants.pdf">here</a>.</span></p>
<p>WANG will work toward setting up a<br />
  program to help small groups of neighbors (perhaps a group of neighbors on a<br />
  one or two street area) enact an agreed set of deed restrictions that would<br />
  preserve the general &quot;look and feel&quot; of the street, or at least<br />
  prevent the most offensive development outcomes. <i></i></span></p>
<p align=center style='text-align:center'><b><u><span style='font-size:18.0pt'>CONSTRUCTION PROTECTION STRATEGIES</span></u></b></p>
<p><a name=KnowYourRights><b><u>KNOW YOUR RIGHTS &#8212; UNDERSTANDING PRIVATE DEED RESTRICTIONS<br />
  AND THE CITY’S ZONING AND BUILDING CODE REQUIREMENTS</span></u></b></a><b>:</span></b> </span></p>
<p><u>Zoning and Building Code Restrictions</span></u>: Zoning districts<br />
  were established to promote compatible land use within the City limits and to<br />
  control development density. Zoning<br />
  districts typically set restrictions on building height, bulk layout,<br />
  impervious cover, fence height, etc. SF-3 “Family Residence” is the predominant zoning district for West<br />
  Austin, though there are also some commercial properties along Exposition and<br />
  Lake Austin Boulevard.</span></p>
<p>As a property owner, you are ENTITLED to the land<br />
  uses that are defined by the zoning for your property. From a historical perspective, the<br />
  restrictions on land use provided in the zoning districts (such as impervious<br />
  cover) were intended to be an absolute upper bound on property use, and were<br />
  never intended to define an sort of “average” use definition. So when you purchase an SF-3 zoned property,<br />
  you have the right to make the following uses of your property:</span></p>
<p>You can build a single family house (or<br />
  a duplex if the lot is 7000 sq. ft) that can be positioned on the property up<br />
  to the minimum setback distances from your property lines (front yard setback<br />
  of 25&#8242;, street side yard setback of 15&#8242;, interior side yard setback of 5&#8242;, and rear<br />
  yard setback of 10&#8242;). Under coverage<br />
  limits, the building can cover up to 40% of the property, and the total<br />
  impervious coverage can be up to 45% of the property. If you build any fences on the property line,<br />
  the fence may be 6&#8242; in average height, but may be a maximum of eight feet in<br />
  height if the fence is located on or within the building setback lines.</span></p>
<p>According to the Residential Design<br />
  &amp; Compatibility Standards (the “McMansion Ordinance”), there is a “floor-to-area<br />
  ratio” limit on the size of the home to the greater of 2,300 square feet or a<br />
  square footage that is 40 percent of the lot size, though certain features (such<br />
  as attics, small attached garages, detached rear garages and first-floor<br />
  porches) are not counted toward the size because these elements do not add to<br />
  the mass and bulk homes. A setback<br />
  building envelope was also added to push height away from adjacent neighbors,<br />
  allowing traditional two story homes (e.g., up to 20 feet tall) to be built at<br />
  the five foot setback line, but requiring taller structures to be moved away<br />
  from the adjacent neighbors. In<br />
  addition, a height limit of 32 feet applies for single family homes (30 ft. for<br />
  duplexes), and side wall articulation requirement was added for certain<br />
  sidewalls over 32 feet in length and 15 feet in height. The “McMansion Ordinance” addresses concerns<br />
  about overly large new houses that loom over existing neighbors and destroy<br />
  neighborhood character, but that would still allow homeowners to build bigger<br />
  and taller homes.</span></p>
<p>There are also certain permitted<br />
  uses for an SF-3 zoned property. For<br />
  example, authorized residential uses for SF-3 zoning include Single-family<br />
  Residential, Lodging-house Residential (Owner occupied B&amp;B) and Retirement<br />
  Housing (small site). Civic uses for<br />
  SF-3 zoning include Communication Service Facility, Day Care Services<br />
  (limited), Group Home, Class I (General), School and Religious Assembly. </span></p>
<p>To see a summary of the zoning requirements for<br />
  SF-3 residential properties (which is the zoning category that applies to most<br />
  of the WANG area), see the “<a href="http://inic.utexas.edu/~bennett/__cwd/Zon_101.htm">Zoning 101</a>”<br />
  summary and the <a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/development/downloads/site_stds_res.pdf">City’s<br />
  Site Development Standards for Residential Zoning</a>. </span></p>
<p>In addition, the </span><b><a href="http://www.ancweb.org/docs/Neighborhood%20Planning%20Guide%20to%20Zoning.pdf">2001<br />
  Neighborhood Planning Guide to Zoning</a></b> is a<br />
  handy reference guide that lists all zoning codes (e.g. SF-1, MF-4) and their<br />
  specifications, such maximum building height, minimum lot size, and allowed<br />
  uses.&nbsp; Also included are descriptions of allowed civic, commercial,<br />
  industrial, and residential uses. The first section of the guide lists the<br />
  Smart Growth infill and redevelopment options under the Neighborhood Plan<br />
  Combining District.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><u>Private Deed Restrictions and Restrictive<br />
  Covenants</span></u>:</span> In addition to use<br />
  limitations provide by zoning laws, deed restrictions and/or restrictive<br />
  covenants may also limit use of a property. For example, the deed restrictions for a property may impose a front<br />
  yard setback requirement that is more restrictive than the city’s<br />
  requirement. Very often, a property<br />
  record search must be made in order to locate such restrictions/covenants, but<br />
  they can be a powerful tool for preserving property values and neighborhood<br />
  standards.</span></p>
<p>Deed restrictions are considered “private” matters<br />
  and are not enforced by the City. Normally deed restrictions deal with the character of the neighborhood<br />
  and can be enforced by neighborhood associations or private citizens in civil<br />
  court. </span></p>
<p><a name=BuildingPlanReview><b><u>REVIEW BUILDING PLANS FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION</span></u></b></a><b>:</span></b> Residential permit<br />
  applications for a property usually include a description of the project<br />
  (square footage, impervious cover, etc.) and a topographical survey with the<br />
  outlines of the structure to be built. To see the applications filed by the builder with the City, you can<br />
  search the Building Plans web site (<a href="http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/pierivr/building_plan_menu.cfm">http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/pierivr/building_plan_menu.cfm</a>)<br />
  by property address. The search results<br />
  from the Building Plan search site will <i>usually</i> include a link (labeled “APPLICATION”) to the application under the “DOCUMENT<br />
  INFORMATION” heading, though the documents are downloaded as TIF files that<br />
  sometimes are blocked by pop-up blockers on your browser, so you may need to<br />
  jiggle your browser settings.</span></p>
<p><a name=ContactOwner><b><u>CONTACT PROPERTY OWNER/BUILDER ABOUT BUILDING PLANS</span></u></b></a><b>: </span></b>Neighbors<br />
  who live near a new home or remodel project will very often want any project to<br />
  be compatible with the existing “look and feel” of the street, and may also<br />
  have helpful information for the new owner regarding easements, private deed<br />
  restrictions, water flow concerns, etc. All concerned parties can benefit by meeting early in the construction<br />
  process about a project. To contact a<br />
  new property owner, try reaching the owner or builder identified at the<br />
  property site, or look up the owner on the </span><a href="http://www.traviscad.org/">Travis Central Appraisal District</a> web site by performing a property address search at </span><a href="http://www.traviscad.org/travissearch.php?mode=situs&amp;kind=real">http://www.traviscad.org/travissearch.php?mode=situs&amp;kind=real</a>.</p>
<p><a name=CodeEnforcement><b><u>CONTACT CITY BUILDING INSPECTOR ABOUT CODE VIOLATIONS OR<br />
  ENFORCEMENT CONCERNS</span></u></b></a><b>:</span></b> If you are concerned that the City is not<br />
  enforcing its land use and zoning requirements relating to impervious cover,<br />
  setback requirements, tree protection, you can contact your neighborhood<br />
  association by clicking </span><span style='color:blue'><a href="mailto:mcannatti@hamiltonterrile.com">here</a></span>, but you should also contact the City code enforcement<br />
  directly at </span><a href="mailto:Zoning.Enforcement@ci.austin.tx.us">Zoning.Enforcement@ci.austin.tx.us</a> or 974-6576. You should be prepared to provide a specific property address and to<br />
  specify your concern. Violations can be<br />
  reported anonymously. The City will<br />
  follow up a zoning violation with a verbal notice. If no action taken, a written notice will be<br />
  sent. Finally, a court date will be set<br />
  if no action is taken. A court can fine<br />
  up to $2000/day for noncompliance.</span></p>
<p><a name=VarianceZoningChanges><b><u>CHALLENGING ZONING CHANGES AND VARIANCE<br />
  REQUESTS</span></u></b></a><b>: </span></b>Property owners are required to comply with the current<br />
  zoning rules if they wish to expand and/or improve their property. If a property owner wishes to exceed the<br />
  allowed zoning uses or requirements, he or she must obtain a “variance” or<br />
  zoning change <b><i>before</i></b> making any changes on the property. A property owner wishing to have an exception<br />
  from the current zoning restrictions can file a variance request with the<br />
  City. One needs to go before the Board<br />
  of Adjustment for a zoning variance, at which point neighborhood input is<br />
  permitted, as described below. No<br />
  construction is permitted until a variance is granted and/or an appeal is<br />
  completed. To see the Board of<br />
  Adjustment rules and regulations, </span><a href="http://www.ancweb.org/docs/BOA%20Rules%20and%20Reg%2004082002.pdf"<br />
target="_blank">click here</a>.</span></p>
<p>Prior to the Board of Adjustment<br />
  hearing (described above), notices of the variance request are sent to<br />
  residents within 300&#8242; of the property and to any organization having an<br />
  interest in the application (such as a neighborhood organization). If an affected resident or neighborhood<br />
  organization objects to the variance request, that objection should be<br />
  presented at the Board of Adjustment hearing. Objections may be presented by filing out the objection form provided<br />
  with the notice and delivering it to the Board.</span></p>
<p>Either party may appeal a variance<br />
  decision by the Board of Adjustments. An<br />
  appeal must be filed within 14 days, and can only be filed by the property<br />
  owner in question, property owners within 500&#8242; of the property or an officer of<br />
  affected environmental or neighborhood organization.</span></p>
<p>In addition, a “petition” procedure requires a<br />
  super majority of the City Council to approve a zoning change. Instructions on <b>how to file a valid<br />
  petition</b> to protest a proposed zoning change are available by <a href="http://www.ancweb.org/docs/VALID%20petition%20-%20zoning%20change.pdf"<br />
target="_blank">clicking here</span></a>. Under this procedure, neighbors within a 200&#8242;<br />
  radius of the property in question who protest a zoning change can file a<br />
  “petition” with the City Council. If a<br />
  written protest against a proposed rezoning, signed by 20% or more of either<br />
  the area of the lots or land included in such proposed change, or of the lots<br />
  or land immediately adjoining the same and extending 200 feet therefrom, such<br />
  rezoning shall not become effective except by the favorable vote of<br />
  three-fourths of all members of the Council. </span></p>
<p>For more detailed information, see<br />
  the “Zoning 101 presentation handouts” on the Austin Neighborhoods Council web<br />
  site at</span> <a href="http://www.ancweb.org/docs/Zoning%20101%20Handout.pdf">www.ancweb.org/docs/Zoning%20101%20Handout.pdf</a>.<u></u></p>
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