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Minutes June 5, 2009

in Meeting Minutes, General on 9/15/2009

Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District Board Meeting

Friday, June 5, 2009
10:00 a.m.

San Marcos Activity Center
501 E. Hopkins
San Marcos, Texas

Call to Order

Notice was duly posted and a meeting of the Austin-San Antonio Rail District was held on Friday,
June 5, 2009. Vice Chairman Tullos Wells called the meeting to order at 10:10 a.m.

Participants:
- Tullos Wells, Vice Chair
- Tommy Adkisson
- Gloria Arriaga
- Jeff Barton
- Mary Briseño
- Mariano Camarillo
- Sheryl Cole
- Will Conley
- John Cowman
- Patty Eason
- Dan A. Gattis
- Karen Huber
- Debbie Ingalsbe
- Carroll Schubert
- John Thomaides
- Jeff Wentworth
- Pat Wiggins
Other participants included Ross Milloy, Bill Bingham, Alison Schulze, Mike Marler, and Don
Karban.
Chairman and Member Comments

Vice Chairman Wells presided over the meeting in Chairman Covington’s absence. Vice Chair Wells
recognized Board member Pat Wiggins for his outstanding service to the Rail District.
Councilmember Wiggins did not seek reelection and reported that next week the New Braunfels City
Council would appoint his replacement on the Board.

Vice Chair Wells reported on his March 6 meeting in San Antonio with Union Pacific Board
members and leadership including Jim Young, CEO for UP. Mr. Young complimented the Rail
District’s approach and the relationship between the Rail District and UP.

There were no other comments.
Consider Approval of March 6, 2009 Board Meeting Minutes

Upon a motion by Gloria Arriaga and second by Councilmember Pat Wiggins, the Board
unanimously approved the March 6 meeting minutes.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Status of Appointments to Board, and
Administration of Oath of Office to Newly Appointed Board Members

Bill Bingham, Rail District General Counsel, reported that all Board members have taken the oath of
office and filed the necessary paperwork.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Election of Board Officers

Vice Chair Wells turned the gavel over to Mariano Camarillo for item 5 since Mr. Wells was up for
reelection. Mr. Camarillo noted the election of officers occurs in odd-numbered years and in March
the Board deferred the election of officers to the June meeting. Mr. Camarillo asked Alison Schulze
to introduce the agenda item.

Alison Schulze directed the Board’s attention to the memo and resolution in the agenda packet. She
noted that current Board officers are Chairman Sid Covington, elected in 2005 and 2007; Vice
Chairman Tullos Wells, elected in 2005 and 2007; and Secretary John Thomaides, elected in 2007.
In 2007 the Board chose not to elect a Treasurer until the Rail District became an operating agency.
The treasurer’s duties are currently handled by the Board Chairman and the Finance Committee.

Ms. Schulze recommended the Board elect a Chairman, Vice Chairman, and Secretary. Only one
office—the office of Board Chairman—carries a term limit. The bylaws state that a member may
only be elected to two successive terms as Board Chair unless the term limit is waived by a resolution
passed by two-thirds of the Board stating that there is a compelling reason for the Chairman to remain
in office. Staff recommended that the Board waive the term limit and allow Sid Covington to remain
as Chairman due to his significant involvement in state legislation, federal legislation, Union Pacific
discussions, TxDOT freight studies, and the operations and financial management of the Rail District.
Ms. Schulze stated that a resolution waiving the two-term limit for Chairman Covington was included
in the agenda packet for the Board’s consideration and action. Ms. Schulze further stated that Tullos
Wells and Councilmember Thomaides each indicated they were willing to serve another term as Vice
Chair and Secretary, respectively, and neither office carries a term limit.

VIA Board Director Mary Briseño noted that continuity in leadership is critical for the Rail District at
this time and moved that the Board approve the resolution to waive the two-term limit for Board
Chair and elect Mr. Covington to another term. Upon a second by Councilmember Pat Wiggins, the
Board unanimously approved the resolution waiving the term limit and reelected Sid Covington as
Board Chairman. Upon a motion by Carroll Schubert and second by Commissioner Karen Huber, the
Board unanimously reelected Tullos Wells as Board Vice Chairman. Upon a motion by
Councilmember Patty Eason and second by Commissioner Will Conley, the Board unanimously
reelected Councilmember John Thomaides as Board Secretary.
Committee Reports

A. Public Information Committee Meeting March 16, 2009
B. Public Information Committee Meeting April 6, 2009
C. Public Information Committee Meeting May 4, 2009
D. Public Information Committee Meeting May 20, 2009

Public Information Committee Chair Mary Briseño summarized the four Committee meetings and directed the Board’s attention to the detailed meeting summaries included in the agenda packet. In each of the meetings the branding team, lead by TateAustinHahn took the PI Committee through the steps of the branding process. The branding team will describe the branding process and the results under agenda item 7. Chair Briseño thanked the Committee for their active participation throughout the branding process. Vice Chair Wells thanked Committee Chair Mary Briseño for her leadership on the PI Committee.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Branding the Rail District

Public Information Committee Chair Mary Briseño noted that the branding team would present the
results of many months of work and the PI Committee’s recommendation for the Board’s
consideration and action. Jeff Hahn, principal of TateAustinHahn—the lead agency on the branding
team, briefed the Board on the importance of a good brand and key considerations when choosing a
brand, such as keeping an eye to the future and branding the Rail District and the service together.

Jessica Schenk, TateAustinHahn project manager, reported on the project imperatives which guided
the branding process: responsible use of time and funds, draw upon best ideas and best practices,
inclusive and thoughtful outreach, brand must speak to a large and diverse community, research is a
critical part of the process. Ms. Schenk then guided the Board through the steps of the brand
development process: research (including in-depth interviews with 33 key community leaders and 11
focus groups with 117 participants), messaging and engagement, creative strategy, and development
of brand elements (name, logo, tagline, original photography, messaging platform).

Mike Clark-Madison briefed the Board on the purpose and findings of the research effort. The
research yielded important information on customer preferences and stakeholder and opinion-leader
perceptions, which serves as the first step of the Rail District’s long-term communication program.
The resulting brand message and positioning statement is that the Rail District offers Texas-style
independence by providing a convenient, cost-effective and intelligent transportation choice. The
core of the creative brief is “Texas-style independence,” and “rail gets you there, I-35 doesn’t.”

Greg Barton presented the recommended brand—Lone Star Rail—and tagline—Catch It. PI
Committee Chair Briseño reiterated that the Committee’s unanimous recommendation to the Board is
to select the name Lone Star Rail and the associated brand elements. Board discussion followed on
the importance of the decision and the broad appeal of LStar and Lone Star Rail. Upon the motion by
the PI Committee and second by Councilmember John Thomaides, the Board unanimously approved
the new name, the brand, and the creative components of the brand identity system. At the
conclusion of the item, the branding team distributed research binders and brand style guides to the
Board members.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Amendment to Branding Contract

Alison Schulze directed the Board’s attention to the branding contract amendment in the agenda
packet that the Public Information Committee has recommended for Board approval. The scope of the current contract is the creative development of the brand, name, logo, and tagline, which is only the first step in building a brand identity. Additional steps are required to implement the brand and build support for the rail project. The contract amendment authorizes TateAustinHahn and the branding team to trademark the new assets and revamp the Rail District’s existing communications tools—brochure, website, project map, and PowerPoint presentation. The total cost of the additional services is $55,000. Upon the motion by the PI Committee and a second by Councilmember Pat Wiggins, the Board voted unanimously to approve the contract amendment.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Resolution to Enter into Agreement with
TxDOT for CAMPO FY09 and FY10 STP-MM Funds

Alison Schulze directed the Board’s attention to the resolution in the agenda packet that would
approve entering into an agreement with TxDOT to spend the FY09 and FY10 Surface
Transportation Program Metropolitan Mobility (STP-MM) funds awarded by the Capital Area
Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO). In May 2008 CAMPO awarded the Rail District $10
million in STP-MM funds to be used for studies required to implement the rail project. To access the
funds the Rail District must enter into an Advanced Funding Agreement (AFA) with TxDOT, and
part of the agreement is a Board resolution approving the action. Upon Board approval, the
resolution will become part of the AFA document. Upon a motion by Councilmember Pat Wiggins
and second by Commissioner Karen Huber, the Board unanimously approved the resolution.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Report on 81st Texas Legislature and Report
on Federal Initiatives

Chris Shields briefed the Board on recent legislative action on the Rail Relocation and Improvement
Fund. Mr. Shields praised the efforts of Rep. Ruth McClendon and Ross Milloy on rail relocation
funding, which was ultimately included as a contingent rider in the appropriations bill. The Rail
Relocation and Improvement Fund will be funded with $182 million from Fund 6—the highway fund
supported by gas taxes—at a level of $91 million per year for the biennium if the State Comptroller
certifies that there is more money in Fund 6 than was available in the previous biennium. In addition,
$8.7 million was specifically designated for the Austin-San Antonio rail corridor. The appropriations
bill, including the line item for rail relocation, must still be approved by the Governor. In response to
questions, Mr. Milloy clarified that our lawyer and legislative consultants believe the funds are
bondable and will be distributed by the Texas Transportation Commission. Vice Chair Wells thanked
Board members for their support and the support of each of their communities and agencies, which
was key to the success of the rail relocation funding effort.

Bill Bingham briefed the Board on other legislation of interest to the Rail District—amendments to
the statute that governs the Rail District. As authorized by the Board, Senator Jeff Wentworth
sponsored legislation that allows other entities to join the Rail District, allows the Rail District to
adopt a different name, and clarifies the types of rail—passenger rail or intercity rail—that may be
operated by the Rail District. The bill was approved and is awaiting the Governor’s signature. Vice
Chair Wells thanked Senator Wentworth for his efforts on behalf of the Rail District.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Potential Strategies and Opportunities for
Project Development

Ross Milloy recapped federal, state and MPO funding already awarded to or available to the Rail
District. Mr. Milloy then presented potential federal funding scenarios, which include federal
stimulus funds, high speed rail program, intercity passenger rail program, federal appropriations (the
Rail District will request $14 million in FY10), reauthorization of the federal transportation funding
bill, and other programs. Several project development tracks are available including high speed
rail/intercity rail, traditional Amtrak/intercity rail, and private sector development—a private partner
is required for Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) funding programs. In all cases, state and local funding will continue to be part of the Rail District’s funding package, and no matter which track the
Rail District chooses to pursue, all require environmental clearance on the project.

The next steps for the Rail District are to launch environmental and engineering studies on both the
freight rail relocation route and the passenger rail route, solicit interest from private sector partners,
apply for FRA high speed rail funding, prepare the FY10 federal appropriations request, execute local
funding agreements for TIF-based revenue and long-term funding, and prepare for the federal
reauthorization bill in 2011-2012.

Board discussion followed. In response to questions, Mr. Milloy noted that, with Union Pacific’s
cooperation, passenger rail service could begin in 2012.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Authorizing the Program Management
Oversight Committee to Request Expressions of Interest and Proposals, Perform
Appropriate Investigations, and Make Recommendations to the Board of Directors for
One or More Private Entities to Associate with the District in the Application for
Federal Funding and Development of Passenger Rail and Related Projects

Ross Milloy asked the Board to authorize the Program Management Oversight Committee to develop
and manage a process to request expressions of interest from the private sector. Bill Bingham noted
that the federal process requires that applicants partner with a private sector entity; therefore, the Rail
District will have to develop a process to solicit expressions of interest and select a private sector
partner. To meet the September deadline the Rail District must start immediately. The PMO
Committee would manage the process and ultimately recommend a partner to the Board for approval.
Upon a motion by Gloria Arriaga and a second by Commissioner Jeff Barton, the Board unanimously
authorized the PMO Committee to develop and manage a process to select a private sector partner
and bring a recommendation to the Board on the partnership in order to move forward with the
application for federal funding.
Financial Report

Ross Milloy directed the Board’s attention to the 2 quarter financial statement included in the
agenda packet. Although the statement shows some overages in the quarter relative to legal and
legislative services, the Rail District is on schedule and on budget for the year.
Concluding Board Member Comments (no action)

Vice Chair Wells commended Board members for the relationships and credibility they have with
their constituents, which has made intercity passenger rail so popular with the public. There were no
additional Board comments.
Public Comment

There were no public comments.
Adjourn

There being no further items, Vice Chairman Wells adjourned the meeting at 11:59 a.m.

Minutes March 6, 2009

in Meeting Minutes, General on 6/5/2009

Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District Board Meeting

Friday, March 6, 2009
10:00 a.m.

San Marcos Activity Center
501 E. Hopkins
San Marcos, Texas

Call to Order

Notice was duly posted and a meeting of the Austin-San Antonio Rail District was held on Friday,
March 6, 2009. Chairman Sid Covington called the meeting to order at 10:08 a.m.

Participants:
- Sid Covington, Chair
- Tommy Adkisson
- Gloria Arriaga
- Hal Baldwin
- Mary Briseño
- Mariano Camarillo
- Sheryl Cole
- Patty Eason
- Dan A. Gattis
- Karen Huber
- Debbie Ingalsbe
- John Thomaides
- Pat Wiggins
Other participants included Ross Milloy, Bill Bingham, Alison Schulze, Mike Marler, Don Karban,
and Scott Polikov.
Chairman and Member Comments

Chairman Covington welcomed new Board members Judge Dan A. Gattis, representing Williamson
County, and Commissioner Karen Huber, representing Travis County. Chairman Covington
announced he and Vice Chair Tullos Wells would be meeting with Union Pacific officials in San
Antonio later that morning and he would turn the gavel over to Mariano Camarillo to chair the
meeting in his absence.

Since Chairman Covington would leave the meeting early, he stated his support of the amended
reimbursement policy between the Austin-San Antonio Corridor Council and the Rail District, which
the Board would act on under agenda item 8. He briefed the Board on the purpose of amending the
policy and praised Donna Hurta for her thorough research of Corridor Council expenditures on behalf
of the Rail District.

Mariano Camarillo noted that he attended the Central Texas/Transatlantic Rail Workshop and
appreciated hearing first hand about the European rail experience and associated economic benefits.
He also noted that he had been interviewed by TateAustinHahn as part of the branding process and
looked forward to hearing the results of the process.
Consider Approval of December 5, 2008 Board Meeting Minutes

Upon a motion by Gloria Arriaga and second by Councilmember Pat Wiggins, the Board
unanimously approved the December 5 meeting minutes.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Status of Appointments to Board, and
Administration of Oath of Office to Newly Appointed Board Members

Bill Bingham, Rail District General Counsel, noted that all Board members present had taken the oath
of office. Two reappointments have not yet been completed, but the Board members continue to
serve until they or their successors are appointed.

Chairman Covington turned the gavel over to Mariano Camarillo to chair the rest of the meeting.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Election of Board Officers

Alison Schulze directed the Board’s attention to the memo and resolution in the agenda packet. She
noted that in February of odd-numbered years, Board members elect a Board Chairman, Vice
Chairman and Secretary. The positions are currently held by Sid Covington, Tullos Wells, and
Councilmember John Thomaides, respectively. Only the office of Board Chair has a term limit—in
accordance with the bylaws, a member may only be elected to two successive terms as Board Chair
unless the term limit is waived by a resolution passed by two-thirds (14 members) of the Board. Staff
recommended that the Board waive the term limit in order to allow Sid Covington to remain as
Chairman due to his significant involvement in legislation for the Texas Rail Relocation Fund, Union
Pacific discussions, TxDOT freight studies, and the operations and financial management of the Rail
District. Board discussion followed. The consensus of the Board was to keep Mr. Covington as
Board Chair given his involvement in very important, on-going activities. Since two-thirds of the
Board was not present, the item was postponed until the next Board meeting.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Appointment of Executive Committee

Alison Schulze directed the Board’s attention to the list of proposed committee assignments in the
agenda packet. In accordance with the bylaws, the Board appoints the Executive Committee, which
must include the Chairman, Vice Chairman, and must reflect geographic diversity with at least two
members from the northern part of the Rail District and two members from the southern part.
Chairman Covington’s recommendation for the Executive Committee is Chairman Covington, Vice
Chairman Wells, Board Secretary Thomaides, Mary Briseño, Mariano Camarillo, Councilmember
Patty Eason, and Carroll Schubert, with Commissioner Jeff Barton and Senator Jeff Wentworth
serving as alternates. Upon a motion by Gloria Arriaga and second by Commissioner Debbie
Ingalsbe, the Board unanimously approved the Chairman’s recommendation for the Executive
Committee.

Alison Schulze noted that the bylaws state the Board Chairman appoints all members of the Rail
District’s standing committees. The current committees are Program Management Oversight, Public
Information, Rules and Procedures, and Finance. Chairman Covington disbanded the Freight Rail
Relations Committee until the service of that committee is needed. Each committee includes nine
members, and some prior committee assignments have been changed to keep the committees
balanced in terms of geography and jurisdictions represented.
Committee Report

A. Finance Committee Meeting February 9, 2009
Alison Schulze reported on the February 9 Committee meeting due to Committee Chairman Clamp’s
absence. She directed the Board’s attention to the summary of the February 9 meeting included in
the agenda packet, and summarized the Committee’s action on three items:

      • Reimbursement policy between the Austin-San Antonio Corridor Council and the Rail
District: The Committee voted unanimously to recommend the Board amend the
reimbursement policy to correct inadequate payments to the Corridor Council. Discussion
and Board action on the proposed policy will occur under agenda item 8.

      • Contract for general representation legal services: The Rail District has a contract with
McGinnis Lochridge & Kilgore for Bill Bingham’s services as legal counsel. A
supplemental agreement dated February 9, 2009, documents billing rates and a process for
adjusting hourly rates. There is no change in rates associated with the supplemental
agreement. The Committee voted unanimously to approve the supplemental agreement
and to report its action to the full Board.

      • Amendments to the FY09 budget: The Committee voted unanimously to recommend the
Board amend the FY09 budget to reflect the amended reimbursement policy between the
Austin-San Antonio Corridor Council and the Rail District. Discussion and Board action
on the proposed budget amendments will take place under agenda item 9.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Reimbursement Policy between Austin-San
Antonio Corridor Council and Austin-San Antonio Rail District

Ross Milloy reported that audits done for both organizations indicated the Rail District’s
reimbursement policy for Corridor Council staff time spent on behalf of Rail District business was
inadequate. The amended policy increases the reimbursement for salaries, payroll taxes and benefits
for the Interim Executive Director from 30% to 50% and for the bookkeeper from 50% to 60%. On
February 9, the Finance Committee unanimously recommended the Board amend the policy and
apply the policy retroactively to FY08. The amended reimbursement policy as approved by the
Finance Committee is included in the agenda packet.

Board discussion followed. Mr. Milloy reported that the Finance Committee also directed staff to
analyze the reimbursement agreement on an annual basis in conjunction with preparation of the
budget and to present the reimbursement policy with the budget for Board approval each year. Upon
a motion by Gloria Arriaga and second by Councilmember Patty Eason, the Board voted
unanimously to approve the amended reimbursement policy and to apply the policy retroactively to
FY08.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Amending FY09 Budget

Alison Schulze directed the Board’s attention to the amended FY09 budget as recommended for
approval by the Finance Committee on February 9, and summarized the two budget amendments:

• Amend the line item on payments from local governments: The approved FY09 budget
incorrectly showed the amount received from local dues as $544,500. The actual amount
is $594,000.

• Amend line items to reflect the revised reimbursement policy between the Corridor
Council and the Rail District: The amended line items under locally funded expenses
include salaries and benefits, payroll taxes, reserve for future local expenses, and minor
adjustments to miscellaneous line items under direct expenses to balance the budget.

Ms. Schulze reported the amended FY09 budget remains balanced, and the unanimous
recommendation of the Finance Committee is to adopt the amended FY09 budget. Upon a motion by
Gloria Arriaga and second by Commissioner Huber, the Board voted unanimously to approve the
amended FY09 budget.
Presentation on City of San Antonio’s Verano Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone

Scott Polikov, principal with Gateway Planning Group, briefed the Board on the 2000-acre Verano
development located in the heart of San Antonio’s City South. Verano is the result of a successful
public-private partnership between the City of San Antonio, Bexar County, Alamo Community
College District, San Antonio River Authority, and the developers. Located adjacent to a new Texas
A&M campus in City South, Verano is a mixed-use development that includes 7,000 residential units
(single-family homes, town homes, lofts, apartments) and nearly 6 million square feet of non-
residential use (office, retail/restaurants, industrial). Verano’s street system is designed to
accommodate all transportation modes—cars, buses, bus rapid transit, light rail, bicycles,
pedestrians—and to interface with a planned intercity rail station in its town center. Mr. Polikov
asked the Board to consider extending the adopted Austin-San Antonio regional passenger rail route,
which currently terminates at Port San Antonio, to San Antonio’s City South, Verano, and the new
Texas A&M campus. Verano’s tax base is projected to be $2 billion, which will support the $265
million tax increment reinvestment zone (TIRZ). Part of the TIRZ revenue could be used to extend
the Austin-San Antonio intercity rail route to Verano’s town center. A question-and-answer session
followed.
Financial Report

Ross Milloy directed the Board’s attention to the financial statement included in the agenda packet.
The statement shows cash inflow, cash outflow, and expenses for the first quarter of FY09. Mr.
Milloy stated that expenditures are on schedule for the year.
Legislative Update

Ross Milloy directed the Board’s attention to two items in the agenda packet: Recommendations to
the Mayor and County Judge of the San Antonio/Bexar County Transportation Task Force, and a
March 5 webcast on Understanding the Federal Programming Rules.

Bill Bingham briefed the Board on the history of the project, rail terminology, the locally preferred
alternative (LPA), and potential funding sources. The LPA runs in the existing Union Pacific right-
of-way from south San Antonio to Round Rock and in the abandoned MKT right-of-way from Round
Rock to Georgetown. UP owns the line from San Antonio to Round Rock, but the Rail District
believes UP is interested in moving its through freight to a new corridor in order to achieve higher
speeds, more capacity and better freight service. UP needs assurance that the State has the funds to
pay the public share of freight relocation. The funds to pay the public share could come from either
the Rail Relocation Fund or a combination of federal, state, and local sources. One federal source ishe federal stimulus program, which includes $13 billion for rail projects. The Rail District has
expressed its interest to federal and state leaders to receive a portion of the federal stimulus program
funds. In addition, Congress recently redefined high-speed rail as 25% faster than Amtrak, so the
Austin-San Antonio passenger rail project may be eligible for high-speed rail funding as well.

Ross Milloy provided an update on the current state legislative session. The legislature is urging
TxDOT to take a more active role in rail transportation development. Mr. Milloy outlined guiding
principles and action steps to develop rail service in the Austin-San Antonio corridor. He also
described legislative initiatives for rail relocation funding and changes to the Rail District’s statute.
Mr. Milloy encouraged Board members to contact key legislators and urge action on the Rail
Relocation and Improvement Fund, and to spread the Rail District’s message that Texas can’t solve
its transportation problems without incorporating rail—passenger rail and freight rail—as a part of
the solution.
Other Business

Councilmember John Thomaides reported that he recently rode the Rail Runner passenger rail system
in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The trains were overflowing with riders.
Public Comment

There were no public comments.
Adjourn

There being no further items, Chairman Camarillo adjourned the meeting at 11:25 a.m.

Minutes December 5, 2008

in Meeting Minutes on 3/11/2009

Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District Board Meeting

Friday, December 5, 2008
10:00 a.m.

San Marcos Activity Center
501 E. Hopkins
San Marcos, Texas

Call to Order

Notice was duly posted and a meeting of the Austin-San Antonio Rail District was held on Friday,
December 5, 2008. Chairman Sid Covington called the meeting to order at 10:17 a.m.

Participants:
- Sid Covington, Chair
- Tommy Adkisson
- Gloria Arriaga
- Jeff Barton
- Lisa Birkman
- Mary Briseño
- Mariano Camarillo
- John Clamp
- Sheryl Cole
- Will Conley
- John Cowman
- Patty Eason
- Carroll Schubert
- John Thomaides
- Pat Wiggins
Other participants included Ross Milloy, Bill Bingham, Alison Schulze, Mike Marler and Don
Karban.
Chairman and Member Comments

Chairman Covington welcomed Schertz City Councilmember Jim Fowler, who attended for Mayor
Baldwin. Councilmember John Thomaides announced that Texas State University students collected
4,000 signatures in support of freight rail relocation and commuter rail. Commissioner Jeff Barton
reported the Capital Area MPO Transit Working Group is meeting again every Monday to evaluate
transit projects in the 3-county CAMPO area.
Consider Approval of September 5, 2008 Board Meeting Minutes

Upon a motion by Councilmember Pat Wiggins and second by Councilmember Sheryl Cole, the
Board unanimously approved the September 5 meeting minutes.
Committee Reports

A. Public Information Committee Meeting November 20, 2008
Chairman Covington thanked Committee Chair Mary Briseño and all members of the PI Committee
for their diligent work on the branding effort. Committee Chair Mary Briseño reported that on
November 20 the PI Committee was the first official focus group to be interviewed for the branding
initiative. The branding team will present information on the branding process and its initial findings
under agenda item 9.
Consider Approval of 2009 Board Meeting Calendar

Alison Schulze directed the Board’s attention to the meeting calendar included in the agenda packet.
The Board will meet quarterly, and the Executive Committee will meet monthly as needed. All
meetings will be in San Marcos and are typically on the first Friday of each month except where
noted due to holidays. Upon a motion by Councilmember John Clamp and second by
Councilmember Patty Eason, the Board unanimously approved the 2009 calendar.
Consider Report on 2009 Appointments to Board

Alison Schulze noted that in December 2007 the Board approved a resolution that provides for
staggered terms of Board members so that one-half of the terms expire each year. On February 1,
2009, the terms of 10 Board members will expire and each will need to be reappointed. Board
members are eligible to serve another 2-year term, and all Board members remain on the Board until
they or another representative is appointed by the jurisdiction. Staff will send letters to each
appointing jurisdiction requesting that appointments to the Board be made by February 2009.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Amendment to Jacobs Carter Burgess
Master Contract for Engineering Services

Alison Schulze briefed the Board on the Jacobs Carter Burgess (Jacobs) contract and proposed
amendment, and directed the Board’s attention to the revised contract amendment included in the
agenda packet. The purpose of the amendment is to make the master contract consistent with
previously approved work authorizations, specifically:

      • Add subconsultants to master contract that were added to Jacobs’ team by work
         authorizations approved in 2006; subconsultants were added to provide specialized
         expertise in financial planning, ridership modeling, cost analyses, freight analyses, etc.

      • Show fees and fee basis for each subconsultant, and show the maximum hourly rates for
        Jacobs as approved in March 2007.

The contract amendment does not affect either the contract amount or the end date. Board discussion
ensued. Upon a motion by Councilmember Pat Wiggins and second by Commissioner Jeff Barton,
the Board unanimously approved the contract amendment.
Consider Report on Texas Rail Relocation and Improvement Fund and Related Issues

Ross Milloy and Bill Bingham briefed the Board on the importance of financing the Texas Rail
Relocation Fund—specifically, moving through freight to a new corridor frees capacity in the
existing corridor to run higher levels of passenger rail service, improves safety, and allows freight
railroads to move more freight through the area. Mr. Milloy reported on the statewide coalition
created to support the Rail Relocation Fund in the upcoming state legislative session that starts
January 13, and further reported that key legislative leaders have indicated support for the RRF. Mr.
Milloy directed the Board’s attention to several handouts in the agenda packet on financing rail
relocation. Mr. Bingham reported that he has drafted a series of bills for consideration in the 2009
legislative session. The bills identify steady revenue streams to finance rail relocation. Board
discussion followed on funding options, the dismal forecast for the State budget, and the proposed
federal stimulus package.

Mr. Bingham briefed the Board on freight rail negotiations and the Rail District’s efforts to gain
access to the existing rail line. To operate a high level of passenger service, Union Pacific’s heavy
through freight must eventually be moved to a new route; and, since UP owns the existing rail lines,
their agreement and cooperation is critical. TxDOT has conducted several feasibility studies on
relocating freight rail, and UP sent a letter to TxDOT indicating their interest in further studying one
of the options for relocation. Mr. Bingham concluded by reiterating that the key component in the
negotiations is legislative action on the Rail Relocation Fund. Board discussion ensued on freight
relocation options, the process and timeline, next steps for rail relocation, and interim steps for
passenger rail service.
Consider Presentation on Branding Services

TateAustinHahn and KGB Texas provided a status report on the branding process, which was
initiated in mid-October. The team briefed the Board on steps in the branding process and what
branding means for the Rail District in the long term. They provided an overview of data collected so
far, including their interview of the Public Information Committee, upcoming interviews, and
consumer-level research; and showed a man-on-the-street-interview video to demonstrate current
awareness of the rail project. The team explained the rules of branding, moving through the brand
planning discipline, and how the Rail District’s brand will evolve. The presentation concluded with a
video of the rail experience. Board discussion followed on the branding process, interview and focus
group participants, and the project timeline, products and deliverables. The Board praised Committee
Chair Mary Briseño and the entire Public Information Committee for their outstanding work on the
branding effort.
Financial Report

Ross Milloy summarized two financial reports in the agenda packet: the third quarter statement for
FY08 and the reconciliation report. Chairman Covington thanked Donna Hurta for her diligence on
reconciling the Rail District’s financial reports.
Legislative Update

Ross Milloy encouraged all jurisdictions and organizations in the corridor to approve resolutions and
letters of support for the Rail Relocation Fund and to contact their state legislators. Rail Relo NOW!,
the statewide coalition on rail relocation, has created a website—RailRelo.org—that includes sample
letters and resolutions of support.
Other Business

There was no other business.
Public Comment

There were no public comments.
Adjourn

Chairman Covington reminded members the next Board meeting will be on March 6, 2009 at 10:00
a.m. at the Activity Center in San Marcos. There being no further items, the meeting adjourned at
12:02 p.m.

Minutes September 5, 2008

in Meeting Minutes on 12/8/2008

Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District Board Meeting

Friday, September 5, 2008
10:00 a.m.

San Marcos Activity Center
501 E. Hopkins
San Marcos, Texas

Call to Order

Notice was duly posted and a meeting of the Austin-San Antonio Commuter Rail District was held on Friday, September 5, 2008. Chairman Sid Covington called the meeting to order at 10:13 a.m.

Participants:
- Sid Covington, Chair
- Tullos Wells, Vice Chair
- Tommy Adkisson
- Gloria Arriaga
- Hal Baldwin
- Jeff Barton
- Mary Briseño
- Mariano Camarillo
- Sheryl Cole
- Will Conley
- John Cowman
- Patty Eason
- Debbie Ingalsbe
- Carroll Schubert
- John Thomaides
- Jeff Wentworth
- Pat Wiggins
Other participants included Ross Milloy, Bill Bingham, Alison Schulze, Jennifer Moczygemba, Mike Marler and Don Karban.
Chairman and Member Comments

Chairman Covington welcomed new Board member Councilmember Sheryl Cole who was appointed July 24 to represent the City of Austin. Chairman Covington introduced State Representative Patrick Rose and Windcrest Mayor Jack Leonhardt and thanked them for their continued support of the Rail District.

Chairman Covington reported on his presentation to the El Paso Metropolitan Planning Organization on August 29. Chris Blewett, project director of the New Mexico Rail Runner commuter rail system, was also at the MPO meeting and provided an update on their system. The Rail Runner extension from Albuquerque to Santa Fe and is set to open by the end of 2008, on schedule and on budget at a cost of about $7 million per mile. Ridership on all routes is exceeding expectations. The University of New Mexico will fund a station for special events with additional student-use stops planned in the near future.
Consider Approval of June 6, 2008 Board Meeting Minutes

Upon a motion by Gloria Arriaga and second by Commissioner Jeff Barton, the June 6 meeting minutes were unanimously approved. Councilmember Sheryl Cole abstained.
Committee Reports

A. Branding Proposal Evaluation Committee Meeting August 7, 2008
Committee Chair Mary Briseño reported on two key items discussed by the Committee:
Contract for Website Services: The Committee unanimously recommended extending A3 Design’s contract for website/printing services for 1 year to September 2009. The recommendation was forwarded to the Program Management Oversight Committee for consideration and action on August 15.
Branding Services Proposals: The Rail District received 17 proposals in response to the Request for Proposals (RFP) for Branding Services. The Committee narrowed the field of 17 proposals to a list of 4 firms to be interviewed. Ms. Briseno thanked the Committee and staff for their hard work.

B. Branding Proposal Evaluation Committee Meeting August 21, 2008
Committee Chair Mary Briseño reported that the Committee—Mayor Hal Baldwin; Commissioner Jeff Barton; Senator Jeff Wentworth; Councilmember Pat Wiggins, and herself—interviewed four firms for branding services: KGB Texas, Guerra DeBerry Coody, TateAustinHahn, and Sherry Matthews Advocacy Marketing. All four proposals were outstanding. Following the interviews the Committee voted unanimously to recommend the Board select TateAustinHahn as the lead firm, with KGB Texas added to the TateAustinHahn team as a subconsultant. Both firms subsequently agreed to the teaming arrangement. Discussion and Board action will follow under Agenda Item 11. Chairman Covington thanked the Committee for their good work.

C. Program Management Oversight Committee Meeting August 15, 2008
Committee Chair Mariano Camarillo directed the Board’s attention to the meeting summary included in the agenda packet, and reported on the key items discussed by the Committee.
Bill Bingham briefed the Committee on his July meeting with Union Pacific. Mr. Bingham will repeat his report under Agenda Item 9.
Contract for Website Services: Upon the recommendation of the Public Information Committee, the Program Management Oversight Committee (PMOC) unanimously approved extending A3 Design’s contract for website and printing services for an additional year to September 2009; there is no fee increase associated with the contract extension. The PMOC authorized Ross Milloy, Interim Executive Director, to execute the contract.
Contract for Program Management and Technical Services: The PMOC voted unanimously to recommend the Board approve amendments to the Jacobs Cater Burgess Master Contract and Work Authorization. Discussion and Board action on the item will follow under Agenda Item 7.
FY09 Budget: The PMOC voted unanimously to recommend approval of the draft FY09 budget to the Finance Committee. Discussion and Board action on this item will take place under Agenda Items 4D and 5.
SH130 Fatal Flaw Analysis: Jacobs Carter Burgess presented the results of the analysis to the PMOC and will present their findings to the Board under Agenda Item 12.
Station Location Policy: The PMOC reviewed the current policy on locating stations along the preferred route, and discussed recent inquiries by Rail District members to locate stations on alternative rail lines—in particular, the Katy line which diverges from the preferred route in New Braunfels and runs through the east side of San Antonio. The PMOC directed staff to find funding partners to study the passenger rail route on San Antonio’s east side (approximate cost: $500,000), and to develop an internal process and policy for moving stations to different rail routes and bring it back to the Committee for further discussion.

D. Finance Committee Meeting August 28, 2008
Ross Milloy reported on the meeting on behalf of Committee Chair John Clamp. The Committee discussed three key items:
FY09 Budget: Upon the recommendation of the PMOC, the Finance Committee voted unanimously to recommend the Board approve the draft FY09 budget. Board action will take place under Agenda Item 5.
Internal Audit: The Committee reviewed the audit results, which found no exceptions, and directed staff to distribute the internal audit report to the full Board. Copies of the report were issued to members at the Board meeting.
Policy on Annual Dues for New Members: Bill Bingham briefed the Board on the current dues policy, which is $49,500 per year to fund the administrative operations of the Rail District. The Committee decided to make no changes to the policy at this time, but to continue to review the policy in the future as the Rail District moves toward revenue service.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on FY09 Budget

Upon the recommendation of the Finance Committee, the Board voted unanimously to approve the FY09 budget.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Amendments to Rail District’s Advanced Funding Agreement with Texas Department of Transportation

Alison Schulze directed the Board’s attention to the Advanced Funding Agreement Amendment #3 in the agenda packet. TxDOT serves as the Rail District’s fiscal agent for the District’s federal funds. The Advanced Funding Agreement (AFA) sets out the terms and conditions for federal funds awarded to the Rail District. Amendment #3 identifies the $1.98 million appropriated by Senator Hutchison for the Rail District in FY06, and states the Rail District will pay a portion ($135,902 as approved by the Board in March 2008) of TxDOT’s San Antonio Freight Study Phase 3.

Upon a motion by Commissioner Barton and second by Councilmember Pat Wiggins, the Board unanimously approved Amendment #3 to the AFA. Chairman Covington thanked TxDOT for their continued support and assistance.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Amendments to Jacobs Carter Burgess Master Contract and Work Authorization to Extend Program Management and Technical Services through September 2009

Alison Schulze briefed the Board on the Jacobs Carter Burgess (Jacobs) contract and proposed amendments. The Jacobs contract consists of two documents: a Master Contract that identifies the end date of the contract and the total contract amount, and a Work Authorization that identifies specific work tasks and assigns a dollar amount to each task. Both documents expire on September 30, 2008.

The amendment to the Master Contract extends the end date of the contract one year to September 30, 2009. No increase in the contract amount ($2.5 million) is proposed. The amendment to the Work Authorization extends the end date of the contract one year to September 30, 2009, amends the amount carried forward from FY07 to FY08, and carries forward the remaining funds (approximately $340,000) for technical services in FY09.

Board discussion ensued on the services and deliverables Jacobs Carter Burgess will provide in the coming year. Upon a motion by the PMO Committee, the Board unanimously approved the amendments to the Jacobs Cater Burgess Master Contract and Work Authorization.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Resolution of Support for the Texas Rail Relocation and Improvement Fund

Ross Milloy directed the Board’s attention to a resolution in the agenda packet which asks the Texas Legislature to set aside $200 million per year to finance the Texas Rail Relocation and Improvement Fund. The fund was created by the 2005 Legislature, but the 2007 Legislature failed to fund it. A statewide coalition has formed to ask the Legislature to act in the upcoming 2009 session. Staff is asking the Rail District as well as all local governments in the Austin-San Antonio Corridor to pass resolutions of support by the end of October. The resolutions will be forwarded as a package to the Legislature’s leadership.

Board discussion followed on the statewide coalition supporting the Rail Relocation Fund and on the wording of the resolution. Board members asked that clauses be inserted in the resolution on benefits to the environment, to energy independence, and to air quality. Upon a motion by Commissioner Adkisson and second by Mayor Baldwin, with friendly amendments by Commissioner Conley and Councilmember Cole on wording to be added, the Board unanimously approved the resolution.
Consider and Discuss July Meeting with Union Pacific Railroad

Bill Bingham directed the Board’s attention to a memo on the July 11 meeting included in the agenda packet, and summarized key points of the meeting with Union Pacific. Mr. Bingham noted that UP’s key management and executive-level staff attended the meeting. The focus of the meeting was the rerouting of UP’s through freight which is a large part of the train traffic on the Austin-San Antonio line. A small working group will be formed to continue discussions and to review TxDOT’s freight studies as they are released.

Mr. Bingham reiterated that the Austin-San Antonio segment is a critical rail line for UP and vital to its business plan. It is very encouraging that UP is taking an active role in the rerouting discussions to develop solutions that will benefit all parties. The issues are immensely complex and discussions will be protracted. The Texas Rail Relocation Fund is vital to continued discussions.

Board discussion ensued. Chairman Covington noted that the meeting was a watershed event for the Rail District and commended Mr. Bingham’s and Mr. Marler’s efforts. Mr. Marler added that the Rail District’s representatives understand UP’s needs and speak their language, and the Rail Relocation Fund provides a mechanism that shows funding interest and commitment. Both of these factors will continue to keep UP engaged and moving forward.
Presentation on Results of Phase 2 San Antonio Region Freight Study

Jennifer Moczygemba, Director of TxDOT’s Multimodal Section, presented the results of the Freight Study. The study looked at the existing freight system in the Austin-San Antonio region, located bottlenecks, and identified improvements to alleviate the bottlenecks. The study identified $3.8 billion in needs, which include grade separations ($1.2 billion), grade crossing closures ($3.5 million), improvements to existing railroad infrastructure ($183 million), and new rail corridors ($1.4-$2.4 billion). TxDOT also quantified the direct public benefit of each category of improvements.

The study identified existing freight customers, alternate locations for through-freight bypasses, and the impact of rerouting through freight on the existing train counts in the Austin-San Antonio corridor. The study also identified the public and private costs of each alternative.

Board discussion followed on the study results and clarification of the costs included in the calculation of “direct public benefit.” Vice Chair Wells requested that Mr. Milloy draft a brief memo that puts the costs in context and send the memo to the full Board along with the TxDOT presentation.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Selection of Consultant for Branding Services

Mary Briseño, Chair of the Branding Proposal Evaluation Committee, reported that the Committee met on August 21 to hear presentations from the four finalists for branding services. TateAustinHahn and KGB Texas were the winning proposers and the two firms agreed to partner on the project for a strong representation of the entire corridor. Branding will communicate the public benefits of the rail project to its stakeholders. The scope of work includes stakeholder research throughout the corridor, interviews, development of a concept and communication plan, and an image for the Rail District. Results are expected in spring 2009. Ms. Briseño introduced Jeff Hahn of TateAustinHahn and Jeff Coyle of KGB Texas.

The Committee unanimously recommended the Board select TateAustinHahn as the lead firm, with KGB Texas added to the TateAustinHahn team as a subconsultant, and authorize staff to negotiate a contract. Upon the motion by the Committee, the Board unanimously approved the TateAustinHahn/ KGB Texas team for branding services and authorized staff to negotiate the contract.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Fatal Flaw Analysis of SH 130 Corridor

Don Karban, Project Manager for the Jacobs Carter Burgess planning and engineering team, distributed the final report to Board members and presented the results of the high-level fatal flaw analysis of the SH 130 corridor as a possible future route for passenger rail service. The SH 130 corridor is 89 miles in length between Georgetown and Seguin. The corridor includes two separate toll road construction projects: Segments 1-4 (Georgetown to south Austin), which was completed in 2008, and Segments 5-6 (south Austin to Seguin) which is still in design and expected to be completed in 2012. To serve the City of San Antonio, rail service would also have to be implemented on existing freight lines between Seguin and south San Antonio, roughly 45 miles.

The analysis identified three alignment alternatives for passenger rail: inside the center median, outside the frontage road, and between the frontage road and mainlanes. Jacobs Carter Burgess identified constraints and fatal flaws in each alternative, and determined the only viable option is inside the center median. Segments 1-4 were designed to accommodate passenger rail, the median is clear and passenger rail is feasible. However, Segments 5-6 were not designed to accommodate passenger rail—for example, the vertical clearance at bridges is too low to accommodate rail cars, and obstructions under bridges would not allow rail. Segments 5 and 6 are still under design, but it is unlikely the two southern segments will accommodate passenger rail; thus, these two segments should be considered fatal flaws for rail service. In accordance with direction from the PMO Committee, staff sent a letter to TxDOT requesting that the design of Segments 5-6 be modified to make the segments rail compatible.

Committee discussion ensued on the design of Segments 5 and 6. The Rail District will wait on TxDOT’s response on modifying the design of Segments 5 and 6 before proceeding with next steps.
Financial Report

Ross Milloy summarized two financial reports in the agenda packet: the third quarter statement for FY08 and the reconciliation report.
Legislative Update

Bill Bingham reported that he has drafted the legislation to amend the Rail District statute to allow new members to join the District. The legislation will be introduced in the 2009 session.
Other Business

There was no other business.
Public Comment

There were no public comments.
Adjourn

Chairman Covington reminded the Board the next Board meeting will be on December 5, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. at the Activity Center in San Marcos. There being no further items, the meeting adjourned at 12:25 p.m.

Minutes June 6, 2008

in Meeting Minutes on 9/8/2008

Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District Board Meeting

Friday, June 6, 2008
10:00 a.m.

San Marcos Activity Center
501 E. Hopkins
San Marcos, Texas

Call to Order

Notice was duly posted and a meeting of the Austin-San Antonio Commuter Rail District was held on
Friday, June 6, 2008. Vice Chair Tullos Wells called the meeting to order at 10:14 a.m.

Participants:
- Tullos Wells, Vice Chair
- Gloria Arriaga
- Hal Baldwin
- Jeff Barton
- Lisa Birkman
- Mary Briseño
- Mariano Camarillo
- Will Conley
- John Cowman
- Gerald Daugherty
- Debbie Ingalsbe
Carroll Schubert
John Thomaides
Jeff Wentworth
Pat Wiggins

Other participants included Ross Milloy, Bill Bingham, and Alison Schulze.

Chairman and Member Comments

Vice Chairman Wells noted that Chairman Covington is in New Mexico. Mr. Wells reported that due
to the rising cost of gas, mass transit systems nationwide are breaking ridership records. He then
introduced Tony Kimmey with Jacobs Carter Burgess, Clif Davis’ replacement as Project Director of
the Planning & Preliminary Engineering Team, and Mike Marler, Jacobs’ Rail Group Manager.

Councilmember John Thomaides welcomed Board members to San Marcos and thanked local
citizens for attending the Board meeting.

Commissioner Jeff Barton announced the Alliance for Public Transit in Austin is promoting mass
transit and has expressed interest in passenger rail service between Austin and San Antonio.

Senator Jeff Wentworth reported that TxDOT annually tracks out-of-state tourist destinations in
Texas and the top four destinations are in the Austin-San Antonio corridor: 1) the Alamo in San
Antonio, 2) the Riverwalk in San Antonio, 3) the Outlet Mall in San Marcos, and 4) the State Capitol
in Austin.
Consider Approval of March 7, 2008 Board Meeting Minutes

Upon a motion by Gloria Arriaga and second by Commissioner Debbie Inglasbe, the March 7
meeting minutes were unanimously approved.

Vice Chair Wells asked Ross Milloy to brief the Board on the background and current status of the
passenger rail project, in advance of the remaining agenda items. Mr. Milloy reported that when the
Rail District determined it would probably not qualify for the Federal New Starts Program, the
District began to pursue two separate strategies: initiate interim passenger service from San Antonio
to Georgetown (short-term strategy), and expand to full service once Union Pacific’s through freight
is relocated to a new corridor (long-term strategy). The Rail District’s goal for starting service is
2011-2012. To implement interim service the Rail District began discussions with Amtrak, and
Amtrak and TxDOT are currently negotiating a contract to conduct a feasibility study. The Rail
District also met with Union Pacific (UP), which will be reported in greater detail in Agenda Item 9.
Additionally, the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO) recently awarded the
Rail District $10 million (which includes $2 million from the Rail District as required matching
funds) in fiscal years 2009 and 2010. The CAMPO award partially matches the $20 million award
from the San Antonio-Bexar County MPO for FY 2011 and FY 2012. When CAMPO funding for
FY 2011 and FY 2012 becomes available, the Rail District will apply for an additional $10 million.

The long-term freight relocation effort includes two studies on relocation of the UP’s through freight.
TxDOT’s Phase 2 Freight Rail Study, to be issued in July, examines various alignments that may be
suitable for UP and looks at the implications on a broader level. The Phase 3 Freight Rail Study will
be discussed in detail under Agenda Item 7. Additionally, the Rail District has organized a statewide
coalition to encourage the legislature to allocate at least $200 million per year to finance a bond
program that will fund rail relocation projects. TxDOT has identified $18 billion statewide in rail
chokepoints, including critical projects in Austin-San Antonio, Dallas, El Paso, and Houston. Mr.
Milloy asked Board members to encourage their individual state senators and representatives to
support financing the Rail Relocation Fund during the upcoming session.
Report on Status of Appointments to the Board

Bill Bingham reported the Rail District has 20 Board members, all 2008 Board appointments have
been made and oaths have been executed, with the exception of the City of Austin which is scheduled
to make a new appointment after the City Council runoff election on June 14.
Committee Report

A. Executive Committee Meeting May 2, 2008

Mariano Camarillo, reporting on behalf of Executive Committee Chair Sid Covington, directed the
Board’s attention to the summary of the Executive Committee meeting included in the agenda packet.
Mr. Camarillo reported on four key items discussed by the Committee:

    • Request for Proposals (RFP) for Branding Services: The Public Information
Committee recommended—and the Executive Committee unanimously approved—
issuing an RFP for branding services. Discussion and Board action on the RFP will
follow in Agenda Item 6.
    • Carter-Burgess proposal to conduct a fatal flaw analysis of the SH 130 corridor: On
April 18 the Program Management Oversight Committee approved a contract with
Carter-Burgess to conduct a fatal flaw analysis of SH 130; on May 2 the Executive
Committee concurred. The analysis will look at the SH 130 corridor as a possible
future passenger rail corridor—rail in SH 130 would not be in lieu of rail in the UP
corridor. TxDOT suggested reviewing the route in light of enormous growth along
SH 130. The contract was executed on May 14, and results are expected in August
2008.
    • Amtrak Feasibility Study: Amtrak will begin studying the feasibility of improving
intercity passenger rail service in the UP corridor. Preliminary study results are
expected in October 2008. Bill Bingham noted the contract is under review at TxDOT
and expected to be executed soon.
    • TxDOT’s San Antonio Freight Study, Phase 3: TxDOT has completed two phases of
the freight study. Phase 3 will determine the feasibility of using the existing UP
freight corridor for intercity passenger rail once UP through freight is relocated. The
Rail District will fund a portion of the Phase 3 study due to TxDOT budget
constraints. Discussion and action on the Phase 3 study will occur under Item 7.

B. Public Information Committee Meeting May 14, 2008

Committee Chair Mary Briseño directed the Board’s attention to the meeting summary included in
the agenda packet. The Committee approved an RFP for branding services and agreed on a process
for evaluating RFPs and selecting a consultant. The RFP will be discussed further in Agenda Item 6.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Request for Proposals (RFP) for Branding
Services

Mary Briseño stated the purpose of the RFP for Branding Services is to give the Rail District traction
in terms of identity, establish a name that is easier to understand and will communicate the purpose
and function of the Rail District, and create an image that increases public awareness. The Public
Information Committee met March 28 and May 14 to develop the RFP and approved the final RFP
for Branding Services on May 14. On May 20, Board Chair Covington appointed five Board
members to the Proposal Evaluation and Selection Committee: Mary Briseño, Chair; Mayor Hal
Baldwin; Commissioner Jeff Barton; Senator Jeff Wentworth; and Councilmember Pat Wiggins. On
May 2, the Executive Committee voted unanimously to send an RFP for Branding Services to the
Board for approval.

Upon Board approval, the RFP will be issued on June 11, and responses will be due on July 23. In
August 2008, the Proposal Evaluation and Selection Committee will meet to review the proposals and
interview shortlisted candidates. The results will be presented to the Board in September for
selection of a branding consultant.

Upon the recommendation of the Public Information Committee and second by Commissioner Will
Conley, the Board voted unanimously to approve issuing an RFP for Branding Services. Vice Chair
Wells commended Ms. Briseño for her leadership on the branding effort.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on TxDOT Freight Mobility Study, Phase 3

Bill Bingham briefed the Board on TxDOT’s freight study, which is being conducted in three phases.
The study analyzes the freight rail system and freight operations from south of San Antonio to
Taylor, which includes the proposed route for most of the Austin-San Antonio intercity passenger rail
system. Phase 1 is complete and includes an inventory of the freight rail system and freight
operations. Phase 2 identifies alternative freight routes; the final draft is under review and expected
to be released in July 2008. Phase 3 is directly applicable to the Austin-San Antonio system and will
determine the feasibility of using the region’s existing freight rail lines for passenger rail. Phase 3
was put on hold due to TxDOT’s budget constraints; but, this phase is critical to the Rail District and
it would be a worthwhile expenditure to contribute to the study in order to move it forward. The
proposal before the Board is to contribute funds to the Phase 3 study, which will be conducted by
TxDOT and its consultants. The Rail District will be engaged throughout the study.

Ross Milloy noted the Program Management Oversight Committee voted unanimously to participate
in the Phase 3 study. The Rail District will contribute $135,902; the total cost of the study is
$206,606. The Rail District will be an integral part of the study via input on the study parameters,
participation in committee meetings, and reviewing results. Vice Chair Wells noted that in recent
years the Rail District has become a leader in freight mobility and relocation issues, and will continue
to play a leadership role in the Phase 3 study.

Upon a motion by the Program Management Oversight Committee and second by Mayor Hal
Baldwin, the Board unanimously approved funding the Phase 3 Freight Mobility Study and
authorizing the Executive Director to execute a contract with TxDOT.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Jacobs Carter Burgess Proposal to Prepare
Texas Emissions Reduction Plan (TERP) Application

Ross Milloy reported that due to Senator Wentworth’s leadership, the Texas legislature made certain
rail projects eligible for funding through the Texas Emissions Reduction Plan (TERP) program—a
program designed to improve air quality. On behalf of the City of San Marcos, the Rail District
pursued funding from TERP to replace at-grade rail crossings with grade-separated crossings. TERP
regulations require strict monitoring and reporting for 15 years, and repayment of the TERP funds if
the air pollutants are not removed. Based on these findings, the City of San Marcos and the Rail
District decided not to pursue TERP funding; but, to work with the Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality (TCEQ) on application requirements, and to pursue a legislative approach
during the 2009 session. As such the item requires no action at this time.
Report on Status of Potential Intercity Passenger Rail Opportunities

Ross Milloy directed the Board’s attention to a memo in the agenda packet that summarizes the Rail
District’s May 7 meeting with Union Pacific and TxDOT. Union Pacific is anxious to move out of its
existing corridor and wants to form a working group with TxDOT, Rail District and Union Pacific
staff to discuss relocation phasing and costs. Mr. Milloy noted that regardless of the amount spent to
upgrade the existing rail corridor to add capacity for interim passenger service, the public will realize
a benefit in the long run when the Rail District eventually takes control of the rail line and implements full passenger service. Additionally, the improvements can be fully funded through the
Railroad Rehabilitation and Improvement Financing (RRIF) Program, a federal loan program.

Bill Bingham noted that the Rail District’s ability to operate passenger rail service in the UP corridor
is fundamentally tied to the UP relocation effort—one can’t be done without the other. UP owns the
rail corridor and passenger rail would interfere with its business of moving freight; however, there are
substantial public safety and economic benefits to moving UP’s through freight out of the city centers
along the corridor. In the past few years UP has not been willing to discuss the Rail District’s
proposal, but the recent meetings have been productive, key staff are engaged, and parameters are
being established for meaningful discussions. All of the key stakeholders are encouraged.

Vice Chair Wells reiterated that relocating UP’s through freight is critical for passenger service, but
UP’s local freight service will remain in the corridor; thus a key issue will be dispatch rights—that is,
control of train departures and schedules.

Board discussion followed on the benefit of relocation to UP and why UP would consider moving its
through freight to a new corridor. Ross Milloy stated the benefits to UP are increased capacity,
greater efficiency, and less liability. Mr. Milloy highlighted several difficult issues for UP in the
existing corridor:

    • Capacity: There are 136 problematic grade crossings between San Antonio and Round
Rock. UP’s capacity is constrained in several places by tight curves and steep slopes that
require UP to add locomotives to navigate steep grades north of the Colorado River.
Finally, UP anticipates a dramatic increase in NAFTA trade in the coming decades.
    • Efficiency: UP currently travels at 17 mph in the existing corridor; relocation to a grade-
separated corridor could increase speeds to 79 mph, which creates efficiency and cost
savings.
    • Liability: The number of at-grade crossings and safety issues regarding transportation of
hazardous materials through densely populated areas increase UP’s liability.

Board discussion ensued on the public benefits (congestion relief, safety issues, rerouting hazardous
materials) and the private benefits (increased speeds equal increased capacity and a competitive
advantage with truck trade; safer and more efficient routes in less populated areas) of relocating UP.
Commissioner Gerald Daugherty requested data on the number of at-grade crossings in each city
along the proposed route, which Alison Schulze agreed to send. The Board also requested cost data
on UP relocation as it becomes available. Councilmember John Thomaides reported local freight
impacts in San Marcos: 2 overpasses over the rail line cost $15 million each, 5 freight cars carrying
hazardous material recently derailed raising safety issues, 10,000-15,000 students commute daily to
Texas State University, and noise issues are affecting quality of life.
Financial Report

Ross Milloy directed the Board’s attention to two financial reports in the agenda packet: the second
quarter statement for FY08 and the reconciliation report. Mr. Milloy noted the District’s finances
remain on budget.
Legislative Update

Ross Milloy reported on preparations being made for the 2009 legislative session: Bexar County
Judge Nelson Wolfe has agreed to chair the statewide rail relocation coalition; and a finance working
group is reviewing state revenue sources and collaborating on funding of the relocation effort.
Other Business

Alison Schulze directed the Board’s attention to the agenda packet and the May 16 letter from Jacobs
Carter Burgess regarding staff changes. Tony Kimmey, located in Dallas, is the new Project Director
for the Planning & Preliminary Engineering Team. Don Karban, located in Austin, replaces Tom
Shelton as Project Manager. Mike Marler, Jacobs’ Rail Group Manager, will be a key member of the
team.
Public Comment

Jennifer Moczygemba, Director of TxDOT’s Multimodal Division, reported on several items:
    • Amtrak Feasibility Study: The contract between TxDOT and Amtrak is currently under
review by Amtrak’s legal department.
    • Land use impacts of Union Pacific relocation: UT’s Center for Transportation Research
just completed a rail corridor preservation study.
    • Cost of UP relocation: Cost estimates are included in TxDOT’s Phase 2 Freight Study.
The study is complete and under review by the railroads. Upon completion, TxDOT will
make the information available.
Adjourn

Vice Chairman Wells announced the next Board meeting will be on September 5 at 10:00 a.m. at the
Activity Center in San Marcos. There being no further items, the meeting adjourned at 11:29 a.m.

Minutes March 7, 2008

in Meeting Minutes on 6/10/2008

Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District Board Meeting

Friday, March 7, 2008
10:00 a.m.

Alamo Area Council of Governments (AACOG)
8700 Tesoro
San Antonio, Texas

Call to Order

Notice was duly posted and a meeting of the Austin-San Antonio Commuter Rail District was held on Friday, March 7, 2008. Chairman Covington called the meeting to order at 10:06 a.m.

Participants:
- Sid Covington, Chair
- Tommy Adkisson
- Gloria Arriaga
- Hal Baldwin
- Jeff Barton
- Mary Briseño
- Will Conley
- John Cowman
- Patty Eason
- Debbie Ingalsbe
- Carroll Schubert
- Jeff Wentworth
- Pat Wiggins
Other participants included Ross Milloy, Bill Bingham, and Alison Schulze.
Chairman and Member Comments

Chairman Covington introduced new Board member, Leander Mayor John Cowman, who represents Austin’s Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority. Mr. Covington announced the Texas Transportation Forum will take place in Austin on April 20 – 22, 2008. The deadline for the discounted-registration rate is March 7. Registration is available on-line.

Councilmember Patty Eason reported the results of the City of Georgetown’s Quality of Life survey. The #1 issue was traffic. Transportation solutions ranked as follows, in order of preference: 35% in favor of commuter rail, 26% in favor of HOV lanes to Austin, 16% for fixed-route bus service within the city, and 16% for bus service to Austin. In addition, the survey results indicated people were willing to pay higher taxes for traffic solutions to fix the problems. There were no other comments from Board members.
Consider Approval of December 7, 2007 Board Meeting Minutes

Upon a motion by John Clamp and second by Tullos Wells, the September 7, 2007 meeting minutes were unanimously approved.
Committee Report: Rules & Procedures Committee Meeting February 22, 2008

Mayor Hal Baldwin, Committee Chair, reported the Rules & Procedures Committee consensus items. The Committee recommended two amendments to the State statute:
• Expand the definition of political subdivisions that may join the Rail District
• Expand the powers and duties of the Rail District to include “intercity or other types of
passenger rail service”
Board action on the amendments will follow under agenda item 8.

The Committee recommended three amendments to the Rail District’s bylaws:
• Delete annual certification of Board’s qualifications
• Delete limitation on size of Executive Committee
• Delete mail confirmation of meetings
• Leave as written:
§11: At least 4 Board meetings per year
§15(b): Powers of Executive Committee

The Committee recommended the Board discuss two issues, which will be taken up under agenda items 6 and 7:
• The role and size of Executive Committee
• Frequency of Board and Executive Committee meetings
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Amending Bylaws

Alison Schulze directed the Board’s attention to the material in the agenda packet, which included a summary of the proposed amendments as well as the bylaws with the proposed changes shown in legislative style. Ms. Schulze summarized the Rules & Procedures Committee’s recommended bylaws amendments:
• §6, pg. 2: Delete annual certification of Board’s qualifications, which isn’t necessary.
• §15(b), pg. 6: Delete limitation on size of Executive Committee, which currently limits
the Committee to four members plus the Board Chair and Vice-Chair (delete the word
“four”). The Board would decide the size of the Executive Committee.
• §16, pg. 6: Delete mail confirmation of Board meetings, which isn’t necessary.

Upon a motion by Councilmember Pat Wiggins and second by Councilmember Patty Eason, the Board voted unanimously to amend the bylaws as recommended by the Rules & Procedures Committee.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Appointment of Executive Committee

Chairman Covington noted that, in accordance with the bylaws, the Board appoints the Executive Committee and the Board Chair appoints all other committees. Based on the bylaws’ amendments approved in the prior agenda item, there is no longer a limitation on the size of the Executive Committee.

Mr. Covington directed the Board’s attention to the proposed slate of Executive Committee members (seven members and two alternates) in the agenda packet, and to the assignments on each of the operating committees, which were slightly revised to balance the load on members. Mr. Covington stated he tried to geographically balance the makeup of each Committee and not unduly overload any single member.

Upon a motion by Carroll Schubert and second by Gloria Arriaga, the Board unanimously approved Chairman Covington’s proposed slate of seven Executive Committee members plus two alternates. Bill Bingham recommended the motion establish the size of the Executive Committee at seven members in addition to electing the Executive Committee members. Upon an amended motion by Carroll Schubert and second Gloria Arriaga, the Board voted unanimously to establish the size of the Executive Committee at seven members and to approve Chairman Covington’s proposed slate of members (Board Chair Covington, Board Vice Chair Wells, Board Secretary Thomaides, Board members Briseño, Camarillo, Eason, and Schubert; and two alternates, Board members Barton and Wentworth).
Consider Revised Board Meeting Schedule

Chairman Covington reported that the Rules & Procedures Committee recommended the Board meet quarterly and the Executive Committee meet monthly as needed. Given the large size of the Board and the length of the corridor, monthly Board meetings have become cumbersome. The smaller Executive Committee is a more manageable size and could more efficiently make day-to-day business decisions. The powers of the Executive Committee are limited by the bylaws; thus, major decisions would still be directed to the full Board, the Board has the authority to overturn Executive Committee decisions, and all Board members would be notified and invited to attend Executive Committee meetings.

Mr. Covington noted the Rules & Procedures also proposed that all Board meetings be held in San Marcos. Having the meetings in a central location would improve attendance by reducing the drive time for most, and having the meetings at one set location would improve attendance because of the certainty of the meeting location—rotating meeting locations has been confusing to Board members and to the public.

Board discussion ensued regarding meeting attendance when meetings were held at either end of the corridor and that quarterly meetings reflect the reality of the Board’s meeting schedule over the past two years. Councilmember Patty Eason suggested that Board meetings be physical meetings, not teleconference meetings. Chairman Covington responded that the four Board meetings would require physical attendance, but Executive and other committee meetings would consider teleconferencing as an option.

Upon a motion by Mayor Hal Baldwin and seconds by Commissioner Will Conley and Commissioner Jeff Barton, the Board unanimously approved quarterly Board meetings, monthly Executive Committee meetings as needed, and all meetings will be held in San Marcos.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Recommended Legislative Amendments to
Expand Definition of Political Subdivisions That May Become Members of the Rail
District and Expand Powers

Bill Bingham briefed the Board on two proposed amendments to the State statute. The first amendment would allow other governmental entities to become members of the Rail District. Under the current state statute, counties, cities over 18,000 in population, metropolitan and rural transportation authorities, and others specified in the statute may join the District. The amendment would allow other government entities such as state universities and regional mobility authorities to become members. The Rules & Procedures Committee recommended that additional entities be given the opportunity to join, but that the size of the Board not increase. Every entity does not need to be on the Board as there is already ample and broad representation.

The second amendment recommended by the Rules & Procedures Committee would allow the District to provide intercity or other types of passenger rail under the same conditions it is currently authorized to provide commuter rail service. The purpose of the amendment is to provide flexibility on the type of service to be provided and allow the District to fit within any funding source.

Board discussion followed on whether new members would pay dues (the Finance Committee will consider dues when the issue arises) and if water districts and municipal utility districts would be allowed to join the District.

Upon a motion by Mayor Hal Baldwin and second by Councilmember Pat Wiggins, the Board voted unanimously to approve the two legislative amendments recommended by the Rules & Procedures Committee.
Report on Status of Potential Intercity Passenger Rail Opportunities

RBill Bingham reported that Amtrak has expressed interest in providing passenger rail service for the Rail District, and summarized recent meetings and correspondence between Amtrak, TxDOT and the Rail District. TxDOT has requested that Amtrak conduct a study on the potential for improving intercity rail service in the corridor. Details on funding, timing and scope of the study are still under discussion. The Rail District will be a partner in the study.

Amtrak brings two important powers to the process: indemnity in case of accidents and access to Union Pacific’s right-of-way. Planning to-date has assumed Union Pacific’s through-freight would be relocated. Under this new scenario, Amtrak would look at improvements (double track, passing sidings, stations) to be made on the existing UP line to provide extra capacity to run passenger trains in addition to Amtrak’s current service. Amtrak provides an alternative that may allow initial service to begin quicker, although the Rail District will continue to pursue through-freight relocation to increase speeds and capacity on the main UP line.

Board discussion ensued on the timeline and deliverables of the study, and similar corridor studies being conducted by Amtrak.
Financial Report

Ross Milloy directed the Board’s attention to two financial reports in the agenda packet: the first quarter statement for FY08 and the reconciliation report. Mr. Milloy noted the District’s finances remain on budget. An audit of the Rail District’s finances has been completed and the report is available for review. Staff will present the audit report to the Finance Committee at its next scheduled meeting.
Legislative Update

Ross Milloy reported on recent efforts to form a statewide coalition to encourage the legislature to fund the Rail Relocation and Improvement Fund. A funding source will have to be identified for rail relocation. Mr. Milloy commended Senator Wentworth for his continued support and assistance with funding for rail crossing improvements through the Texas Emissions Reduction Program (TERP).
Other Business

Bill Bingham reminded Board members Kim, Ingalsbe, Clamp, Conley, Thomaides and Baldwin that their terms expired on February 1st and they need to be reappointed. A letter will be sent to each appointing jurisdiction that the reappointments should be made as soon as possible and forwarded to the Rail District.

Chairman Covington reminded the Board that the Capital Area MPO will conduct a public hearing on project requests for federal STP-MM funds—including the Rail District’s request—on March 17. Board members are encouraged to attend and support the funding request.
Public Comment

Jennifer Moczygemba, Director of TxDOT’s Multimodal Division, reported on several items:
• TxDOT is updating the State Rail Plan in support of the needs for the Rail Relocation and Improvement Fund. Public meetings across the state—including meetings in Austin and San Antonio— are expected to begin in early summer.
• TxDOT is continuing to work with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) on models and information required for the Texas Emissions Reduction Program (TERP), and will make the information available to the Rail District. The application deadline for TERP funds is April 11, 2008.
• Phase 2 of the San Antonio Freight Study is complete and under review by the railroads. Upon completion of the review, the study will be forwarded to the Board.
Adjourn

There being no further items, the meeting adjourned at 11:11 a.m.

Minutes December 7, 2007

in Meeting Minutes, General on 3/13/2008

Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District Board Meeting

Friday, December 7, 2007
10:00 a.m.

Alamo Area Council of Governments (AACOG)
8700 Tesoro
San Antonio, Texas

Call to Order

Notice was duly posted and a meeting of the Austin-San Antonio Commuter Rail District was held on Friday, December 7, 2007. Chairman Covington called the meeting to order at approximately 10:06 a.m.

Participants:
- Sid Covington, Chair
- Tullos Wells, Vice Chair
- Tommy Adkisson
- Gloria Arriaga
- Hal Baldwin
- Jeff Barton
- Lisa Birkman
- Mariano Camarillo
- John Clamp
- Will Conley
- Gerald Daugherty
- Patty Eason
- Debbie Ingalsbe
- Jennifer Kim
- Carroll Schubert
- John Thomaides
- Jeff Wentworth
- Pat Wiggins
Other participants included Ross Milloy, Bill Bingham, and Alison Schulze.
Chairman and Member Comments

Chairman Covington introduced and welcomed the newest Board members: Hays County Commissioner Debbie Ingalsbe representing CARTS, Manor Council Member Jamie Allen representing Capital Metro, Commissioner Will Conley representing Hays County, Council Member John Clamp representing the City of San Antonio, and Mayor Hal Baldwin representing the City of Schertz. Mr. Covington noted the Board now includes 20 members representing 17 entities.

Chairman Covington reported that an orientation workshop for new Board members was conducted on November 26 for the six recently appointed members, and commended staff for their work organizing the workshop. There were no comments from other Board members.
Consider Approval of September 7 Board Meeting Minutes

Upon a motion by John Clamp and second by Tullos Wells, the September 7, 2007 meeting minutes were unanimously approved.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Status of Appointments to Board and Administration of Oath of Office to Newly Appointed Board Members, and Decision on Board Member Terms

Bill Bingham explained that the original statute creating the Rail District provided for two-year terms for Board members with all terms ending on the same date. The statute was amended in 2005 to allow the Board to determine the lengths of members’ terms so that one-half of the terms would expire each year. The amended statute allows the Board to achieve staggered terms either by agreement or by drawing lots.

The Board had previously agreed that the five jurisdictions—San Antonio, Austin, Travis County, Bexar County, TxDOT—that appoint two Board members would be better served by having one member’s term expire each year. Appointees of each of the five entities agreed to terms. The remaining ten Board members determined terms by drawing lots. A one-year term expires February 1, 2008, a two-year term expires February 1, 2009; thereafter, all terms are two-year terms. When his/her term expires, a Board member may be reappointed; there are no term limits.

By agreement and by drawing, the following Board members’ terms will expire February 1, 2008:
- Jamie Allen
- Gloria Arriaga
- Hal Baldwin
- Lisa Birkman
- John Clamp
- Will Conley
- Debbie Ingalsbe
- Jennifer Kim
- John Thomaides
- Tullos Wells
By agreement and by drawing, the following Board members’ terms will expire February 1, 2009:
- Tommy Adkisson
- Jeff Barton
- Mary Briseño
- Mariano Camarillo
- Sid Covington
- Gerald Daugherty
- Patty Eason
- Carroll Schubert
- Jeff Wentworth
- Pat Wiggins
Mr. Bingham noted that all members have taken the oath of office and are fully qualified as members. Mr. Bingham read the final order and, upon a motion by Tommy Adkisson and second by Gloria Arriaga, Board terms were unanimously approved. Each jurisdiction will be notified of the terms.
Consider Committee Assignments

Chairman Covington directed the Board’s attention to the list of committee assignments in the agenda packet. Mr. Covington noted that, as Board Chair, he appoints members to the five standing committees: Program Management Oversight, Public Information, Rules and Procedures, Finance, and Freight Rail Relations. He emphasized the importance of the work done at the committee level and noted that committee assignments are effective December 7.
Chairman Covington stated that, in accordance with the bylaws, the Board appoints the Executive Committee. He asked Board members to review his recommended slate for the Executive Committee, which will be considered at the next Board meeting.

Lisa Birkman asked if the Executive Committee is set at six members. Chairman Covington noted that the bylaws establish the number of members: “The Executive Committee shall consist of the Chairman of the Board, Vice Chairman of the Board, and four other Board members appointed by the Board.” Additionally, the bylaws require diverse geographic representation—at least two members from the north part of the Rail District and two from the south. The Board could revise the bylaws regarding the Executive Committee and Mr. Covington suggested the Rules and Procedures Committee meet and recommend changes if that’s the will of the Committee.
Discuss Various Rail Service Alternatives

Bill Bingham briefed the Board on recent discussions between Amtrak, TxDOT and the Rail District. To date Rail District plans have been based on the premise that Union Pacific’s through freight would be relocated from the existing mainline to a new rail line thereby freeing capacity for passenger rail service; however, freight rail relocation remains unfunded. Union Pacific (UP) has been reluctant to share its freight traffic data, which the Rail District needs to determine capacity constraints on UP’s existing line. Amtrak recently expressed interest in studying the improvements that would be necessary to allow additional passenger rail service on the UP mainline—e.g., double tracking, passing sidings, signal systems, grade crossings. TxDOT initiated a meeting on November 19 between the Rail District, Amtrak, and TxDOT executive-level representatives to discuss the possibility of providing passenger service. The result of the meeting was that TxDOT, Amtrak and the Rail District agreed to execute a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to study the improvements required to provide passenger service. TxDOT is preparing the MOU.

Mr. Bingham noted that Amtrak is a federally created corporation with unique powers regarding passenger service: Amtrak can offer passenger service on any Class 1 railroad and it has the power to indemnify railroads from liability involved with passenger train operations. Amtrak recently received additional authority to increase its intercity passenger rail service. Amtrak would be good partner because they have the equipment, crews, and ability to operate passenger service.

The MOU and subsequent studies do not commit the Rail District to a course of action. Mr. Bingham noted that this rail service alternative is different than previous strategies discussed by the Board, which relied on relocating UP’s through freight. The Rail District could partner with Amtrak to improve the existing rail line and provide interim service as UP’s through freight is relocated.

Ross Milloy emphasized Amtrak would probably only provide interim service and the new approach would not diminish efforts to relocate UP’s through freight. Mr. Milloy also noted the Railroad Rehabilitation & Improvement Financing (RRIF) Program—a $3 billion federal loan program for the rehabilitation of railroads—granted its first loan two weeks ago to a commuter service similar to the Austin-San Antonio system.

Chairman Covington noted that Amtrak could operate the service or simply provide equipment and infrastructure. Those details would be determined in the bidding process. Board discussion ensued on TxDOT’s level of interest and involvement; the scope of the studies that would identify improvements needed to provide capacity for passenger service; and the timelines for relocating UP’s through freight and for providing passenger operations.

Chairman Covington noted the Amtrak approach provides an opportunity to operate passenger service before UP’s through freight is relocated, which is still the long-term goal. Additional discussion ensued on the timeline for starting passenger service, limited federal funding and recent recisions, Amtrak’s grant funds, and coordinating the Rail District’s federal lobbying effort with the lobbying efforts of the individual jurisdictions in the Austin-San Antonio corridor.

Bill Bingham concluded the discussion by noting the next step for the Rail District is to identify a specific funding request, which is the purpose of the studies with Amtrak and TxDOT.
Discuss San Antonio Region Freight Study

Bill Bingham briefed the Board on TxDOT’s freight rail study in the San Antonio region. The study, which is being conducted in three phases, was expanded to include the Austin region. Phase 1 of the freight study was released in October 2007 and includes a detailed inventory of existing rail lines and rail traffic in the area. Phase 2 of the study is underway and will identify potential track upgrades, alternative rail alignments, and freight flows. The results of Phase 2 are under review by Union Pacific and should be complete by February 2008. Phase 3 of the study has not yet been started and will determine the feasibility of using existing freight rail lines for passenger rail service. The freight study will complement the Amtrak-Rail District studies discussed under the previous agenda item. Mr. Bingham noted in conclusion that the study does not provide a timeline or funding source for implementing passenger rail service. However, the information compiled in the study will help the Rail District refine its cost estimates and schedule, and is a significant step toward achieving the Rail District’s goal of providing passenger service.

Board discussion ensued. Jennifer Moczygemba, Director of TxDOT’s Multimodal Section, gave a brief overview of the status of Phases 2 and 3 of the study. Phase 2 will be complete once the public and private benefits of freight relocation have been quantified. Phase 3 has been postponed temporarily because of budget issues.
Financial Report

Ross Milloy directed the Board’s attention to two financial reports in the agenda packet: the fourth quarter statement and the reconciliation report. Mr. Milloy noted the Rail District’s finances remain on budget with the exception of an overage on legislative services, which was for a study approved by the Board earlier in the year.
Legislative Update

Bill Bingham noted that he had touched on Amtrak’s additional authority and funding in agenda item 6. Ross Milloy stated there is a $100 million federal appropriation for intercity rail that is in conference committee. Additionally, a Congressional study group looking at transportation financing and needs over the next 50 years recommended a $350 billion investment in intercity rail.
Other Business

Ross Milloy briefed the board on recent meetings with transportation leaders in Houston and Dallas on building a statewide coalition in support of the Rail Relocation Fund. In a meeting with Michael Morris, Director of Transportation for the North Central Texas COG, on December 3, Mr. Morris suggested joining forces on several common issues including funding for rail relocation and local option sales tax funding for transit and economic development.

Ross Milloy thanked Senator Jeff Wentworth for his help during the recent legislative session to make funds in the Texas Emissions Reduction Program (TERP) available for rail. Mr. Milloy noted Carter & Burgess is developing a scope and fee to conduct a study to quantify rail’s emission reductions and to prepare an application for TERP funds. The proposed study will be presented to the Program Management Oversight Committee and ultimately to the Board for action.

Alison Schulze briefed the Board on the Rail District’s application to the Capital Area MPO for Surface Transportation Program-Metropolitan Mobility (STP-MM) funds, which are discretionary funds awarded by the MPOs. In January 2007, the San Antonio-Bexar County MPO committed $10 million to the Rail District in Fiscal Year 2011 and $10 million in FY 12. An application for STP-MM funds was submitted to the Capital Area MPO in October that requested $5 million in FY 09 and $5 million in FY 10. CAMPO will award the funds in April 2008. At the appropriate time, the Rail District will request $5 million in FY 11 and $5 million in FY 12 from CAMPO, so that by Fiscal Year 2012 each MPO will have contributed $20 million to the project.

Carroll Schubert welcomed all the new Board members.

Patty Eason thanked Alison Schulze and Carter-Burgess staff Clif Davis, Tom Shelton, and Allan Zreet for their assistance in developing Georgetown’s Transit Oriented Development regulations.
Public Comment

There was no public comment.
Adjourn

Chairman Covington announced that the January 2008 Board meeting will be cancelled. The next Board meeting will be Friday, February 1, at the Activity Center in San Marcos. Chairman Covington noted the Board may only need to meet quarterly in 2008 and suggested that the Rules and Procedures Committee consider the issue of quarterly meetings. Mr. Covington thanked Board members and the audience for their attendance and participation. There being no further items, the meeting adjourned at 11:23 a.m.

Minutes September 7, 2007

in Meeting Minutes on 12/16/2007

Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District Board Meeting

Friday, September 7, 2007
10:00 a.m.

Alamo Area Council of Governments (AACOG)
8700 Tesoro
San Antonio, Texas

Call to Order

Notice was duly posted and a meeting of the Austin-San Antonio Commuter Rail District was held on Friday, September 7, 2007. Chairman Covington called the meeting to order at approximately 10:22 a.m.

Participants:
- Sid Covington, Chair
- Tullos Wells, Vice Chair
- Jeff Barton
- Lisa Birkman
- Mary Briseño
- Mariano Camarillo
- Patty Eason
- Jennifer Kim
- Dave Marsh
- Carroll Schubert
- John Thomaides
- Pat Wiggins
Other participants included Ross Milloy, Bill Bingham, Alison Schulze, and Chris Shields.
Chairman and Member Comments

Chairman Covington welcomed Council Member Pat Wiggins, representing the City of New Braunfels, as the newest member of the Rail District Board. Mr. Covington noted Hays County, Capital Metro and the City of San Antonio appointments to the Board are still pending.

Chairman Covington recognized outgoing Board member Dave Marsh, who represents CARTS, for his outstanding service to the Rail District and presented him with a certificate of appreciation. Vice Chair Wells thanked Mr. Marsh for his valuable contributions to the Board. Mr. Covington noted that when all Board vacancies have been filled, Board committees will be re-formed. He encouraged Board members to volunteer for their preferred committees.

Council Member Patty Eason distributed announcements of a public workshop on Transit-Oriented Development to be held in Georgetown on September 12-14. Consultants will conduct planning sessions and prepare zoning codes for the SE Inner Loop/Maple Street area in Georgetown, which is the location of the proposed commuter rail station.
Consider Approval of May 4, 2007 Board Meeting Minutes

Upon a motion by Tullos Wells and second by Commissioner Jeff Barton, the May 4, 2007 meeting minutes were unanimously approved.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Status of Appointments to Board and Administration of Oath of Office to Newly Appointed Board Members

Bill Bingham noted that New Braunfels Council Member Pat Wiggins was appointed to the Board on August 27, and has taken the oath of office. Mr. Bingham confirmed there are presently 17 named Board members; upon completion of all appointments and replacements, the Board will have 19 members. Pending appointments and replacements include Hays County, Capital Metro, City of San Antonio, and CARTS.

Mr. Bingham reported that the amended State statute allows staggered terms for Board members. When the full Board is in place, members will conduct a drawing to determine 1-year or 2-year terms. The drawing should take place by January 2008.
Committee Reports
1. Public Information Committee Meeting May 14, 2007
  
  Committee Chair Dave Marsh directed the Board’s attention to the written summary of the meeting included in the agenda packet. The committee reviewed and discussed the baseline video presented by Carter & Burgess, but decided to postpone action on the video in order to incorporate the video as part of a comprehensive public information campaign. Mr. Marsh noted the committee also postponed action on a general public information brochure for the same reason.
  
  The PI Committee approved updating the visual design of the website. Finally, the PI Committee recommended issuing a request for proposals for a comprehensive public outreach campaign and directed staff to draft an RFP.
2. Public Information Committee Meeting June 27, 2007
  
  Committee Chair Dave Marsh directed the Board’s attention to the written summary of the meeting included in the agenda packet. The committee approved functional improvements to the website. The committee also approved converting the 1998 VHS video, We Are All Connected, to DVD and making 20 copies for distribution.
  
  Mr. Marsh noted that, after much discussion, the committee postponed action on issuing an RFP for a public information campaign. The committee instead recommended a phased approach to the comprehensive outreach campaign starting with a market study and a public strategy. The committee directed staff to draft a scope of work and develop a cost estimate for a market study.
3. Public Information Committee Meeting August 20, 2007
  
  Committee Chair Dave Marsh directed the Board’s attention to the written summary of the meeting included in the agenda packet. The PI Committee approved extending the website maintenance contract for one year, and endorsed a legislative strategy for a 2-year statewide campaign to fund the Rail Relocation Fund. The committee postponed action on a market study pending guidance from the Board on an overall strategy for engaging the public.
  
  Board discussion ensued. Commissioner Birkman commented that residents in the north end of the corridor are not aware of the Rail District’s project, and the public confuses the Austin-San Antonio passenger rail project with Capital Metro’s rail project in Austin. The Board discussed the need to engage the public, the timeline for moving forward with a public information campaign, managing public expectations, and avoiding duplicating efforts on the public outreach process. Chairman Covington noted that a presentation on engaging stakeholders would follow under agenda item 9.
4. Program Management Oversight Committee Meeting August 23, 2007
  
  Committee Chair Mariano Camarillo directed the Board’s attention to the written summary of the PMO Committee meeting included in the agenda packet. The committee unanimously recommended approval of a one-year extension of the Carter & Burgess contracts, which the Board will act on in agenda item 8. The PMO Committee also unanimously concurred with the PI Committee’s action to extend the contract for website maintenance for one year. In addition, the PMO Committee endorsed the legislative strategy of leading a 2-year statewide campaign to fund the Rail Relocation Fund in 2009, and also endorsed increasing funds for legal services in the FY08 budget for local funds.
5. Finance Committee Meeting August 23, 2007
  
  Committee Chair Mariano Camarillo directed the Board’s attention to the written summary of the meeting included in the agenda packet. The Finance Committee reviewed and discussed the draft FY08 budget, which includes increases in local funds for legislative assistance and legal services. Mr. Camarillo reported the Finance Committee unanimously recommended approval of the FY08 budget, and noted the Board will take formal action on the budget under agenda item 7.
Presentation on Engaging Stakeholders

Chairman Covington took item 9 out of order to provide a context for the subsequent discussion on the Rail District’s strategy for moving forward. Ross Milloy reported that the Public Information Committee directed staff to ask a public strategies firm to address the Board and present ideas on engaging stakeholders. Mr. Milloy introduced Chris Shields, a lobbyist who represents cities, counties, and transit authorities in the legislature.

Mr. Shields spoke on translating public support for the project to legislative support, and the legislative and economic issues of transportation. Transportation has become the leading issue of controversy in the Texas legislature, in part because transportation encompasses numerous sub-issues such as quality of life, economic development, scarce funding resources, and the environment. Mr. Shields stated that the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex has done the best job of building community consensus for rail projects. He recommended the Rail District join forces with the metroplex on common transportation and legislative issues, such as a local option sales tax. A regional sales tax is the best solution for funding regional rail projects, and the metroplex model is the best in the State for building coalitions to support legislation. Mr. Shields suggested the Rail District develop a community process that results in recognition and buy-in by the community for a regional solution. The Rail District has to position its project as the economic and viable alternative supported by community consensus.

Chairman Covington thanked Mr. Shields for his insight and noted that funding and mobility crises are evident in Texas and across the country. A lengthy discussion ensued on the local option sales tax, quality of life issues, mobility issues, building community awareness, and the metroplex’s consensus building process. Board members requested additional information and education on the Dallas/Fort Worth model.
Discuss Development Strategy

Ross Milloy and Bill Bingham presented a strategy for moving forward in 2008. Topics included:
- Milestones and accomplishments to date
- Near-term goals and activities
- Implementation strategies
- Union Pacific issues
- Rail relocation scenarios
- Public finance approaches
- Funding strategies
- Private sector development options
- Immediate next steps
Board discussion ensued on private sector involvement and the experience of other commuter rail systems in the U.S., discussions with Union Pacific, current freight operations and customers in the Austin-San Antonio Corridor, the legislative strategy of leading a 2-year statewide campaign to fund the Rail Relocation Fund in 2009, and the upcoming sunset review of TxDOT.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on FY08 Budget

Ross Milloy directed the Board’s attention to the proposed FY08 budget document included in the agenda packet. The budget consolidates the Rail District’s local and federal funds. Under locally funded expenses, Mr. Milloy noted increases in legal services and legislative consultants in FY08, which decrease the reserve in local funds. The remaining federal funds will be used to continue current consultant services and contracts. Chairman Covington noted that legal services is a broad category that also includes strategic planning and general counsel by Bill Bingham. Upon a motion by the Finance Committee, the Board unanimously approved the FY08 Budget.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Carter & Burgess Master Contract and Work Authorization for Planning & Preliminary Engineering (P&PE-1)

Alison Schulze directed the Board’s attention to the memo and attachments in the agenda packet. The proposed contract amendments would extend Carter & Burgess’ services for one year and would not increase the fee in either the master contract or the work authorization. Unspent funds in the current work authorization would be redirected to cover the work to be performed in the upcoming year. The amendments would provide the following.
Extend the end dates of both the mater contract and the work authorization one year to September 30, 2008
Allow Carter & Burgess and Public Financial Management (PFM) to continue providing basic program management and on-call technical and financial support services for one year for a fee not to exceed $250,000

Upon a motion by the Program Management Oversight Committee, the Board unanimously approved the amendments to the Carter & Burgess master contract and work authorization for Planning & Preliminary Engineering (P&PE-1).
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on 2008 Board Meeting Calendar

Alison Schulze directed the Board’s attention to the proposed 2008 Board Meeting Calendar. Ms. Schulze noted the meetings will rotate between San Antonio, San Marcos and Austin, with one meeting in Round Rock per Commissioner Birkman’s request. Ms. Schulze further noted that the calendar would allow the Executive Committee to meet in place of the full Board where appropriate and in accordance with the Rail District’s bylaws. Upon a motion by Tullos Wells and second by Dave Marsh, the 2008 Board Meeting Calendar was approved.

Council Member Jennifer Kim suggested that the Austin meetings be held at a more convenient location than the Ruiz Library and stated she would work with staff to find a suitable location. Chairman Covington stated that he reserves the right to cancel Board meetings when there are no items that require Board action.
Financial Report

Ross Milloy directed the Board’s attention to two financial reports in the agenda packet: the quarterly statement and the reconciliation report. Mr. Milloy noted the District’s finances remain on budget.
Legislative Update

There were no additional legislative issues to report.
Other Business

Dave Marsh commented on his service on the Board, and stated that although he’s no longer on the Board he remains on the team. Mr. Marsh noted the CARTS Board will appoint Hays County Commissioner Debbie Ingalsbe as his replacement, and that Commissioner Ingalsbe will join the Rail District Board once her appointment is ratified by Travis County.
Public Comment

Jennifer Moczygemba, TxDOT, stated that House Bill 2510 set a precedent by providing taxing authority within the 2¢ cap for the newly formed Border Commuter Rail District. Wilda Won, TxDOT, noted that the new Houston Freight District also has the option of operating commuter rail.
Adjourn

Chairman Covington announced that the next Board meeting is scheduled for October 5 at the TxDOT headquarters complex in Austin. Mr. Covington thanked Board members and the audience for their attendance and participation. There being no further items, the meeting adjourned at 12:16 p.m.

Minutes May 4, 2007

in Meeting Minutes on 9/11/2007

Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District Board Meeting

Friday, May 4, 2007
10:00 a.m.

San Marcos Activity Center
501 E. Hopkins
San Marcos, Texas

Call to Order

Notice was duly posted and a meeting of the Austin-San Antonio Commuter Rail District was held on Friday, May 4, 2007. Chairman Covington called the meeting to order at 10:10 a.m.

Participants:
- Sid Covington, Chair
- Tommy Adkisson
- Gloria Arriaga
- Jeff Barton
- Mary Briseño
- Mariano Camarillo
- Gerald Daugherty
- Patty Eason
- Fred Harless
- Richard Perez
- Carroll Schubert
- John Thomaides
Other participants included Ross Milloy, Bill Bingham, Alison Schulze, Clif Davis and Tom Shelton.
Chairman and Member Comments

Council Member Patty Eason reported that the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce passed a resolution of support for the Rail Relocation Fund. Commissioner Jeff Barton announced that Hays County Commissioners Court will consider joining the Rail District on May 15.

Chairman Covington reported on a meeting held on May 2 to discuss the MoKan Corridor—the abandoned rail corridor that runs from Georgetown to Austin east of I-35. Mr. Covington noted that the northern portion of the MoKan corridor—from US 79 in Round Rock to Georgetown—is the route of the Austin-San Antonio commuter rail system, as adopted by the Rail District. The meeting was organized by Scott Polikov and Representative Krusee; representatives from the Rail District, TxDOT (Austin District), Capital Metro, and the cities of Austin, Georgetown, Round Rock, and Pflugerville attended. Capital Metro is planning a rail project in the MoKan corridor from the Austin airport to Georgetown, although much of the corridor is outside Capital Metro’s service area. TxDOT indicated they will take the lead and contract for environmental clearance on the entire MoKan corridor. The environmental process could take up to 5 years. Mr. Covington will continue to keep the Board apprised.
Consider Approval of March 2 Board Meeting Minutes

Board Member Arriaga requested that Item 2 in the minutes be amended to reflect that she was appointed by Bexar County. Upon a motion by Council Member Richard Perez and second by Commissioner Jeff Barton, the March 2, 2007 meeting minutes were approved as amended.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Status of Appointments to Board, Administration of Oath of Office to Newly Appointed Board Members, and Decision on Board Member Terms

Bill Bingham reported that all 17 Board members have been appointed or reappointed to the Board, and recommended that the Board determine 1-year and 2-year terms at the next Board meeting. At that time, Mr. Bingham will present a motion and conduct a drawing so that half of the Board members are assigned 1-year terms and half assigned 2-year terms. Terms expire on February 1 in accordance with the Rail District’s bylaws. The drawing will establish initial term lengths and thereafter allow for staggered 2-year terms as prescribed by the legislature.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Appointment of Executive Committee

Chairman Covington noted that the bylaws established an Executive Committee, which is appointed by the Board and may stand in for the Board as appropriate. Mr. Covington directed the Board’s attention to a memo in the agenda packet that summarizes the Executive Committee’s powers, duties, and composition. At the March Board meeting Mr. Covington proposed a slate of six members for the Committee, subject to Board action at the following meeting. Upon a motion by Council Member Richard Perez and second by Commissioner Jeff Barton, the Board appointed the following members to the Executive Committee: Chairman Covington, Vice-Chairman Wells, Mr. Camarillo, Council Member Kim, Council Member Perez, and Mr. Schubert.
Committee Report: Program Management Oversight Committee Meeting April 20, 2007

Committee Chair Mariano Camarillo directed the Board’s attention to the written summary of the meeting included in the agenda packet. The Committee conducted a meeting on April 20 in four locations via conference call. The Committee considered three items:
- Carter-Burgess presented station evaluation criteria. The criteria recommended by the Committee will be presented to the Board under agenda item 7.
- The Committee authorized Ross Milloy to spend up to $15,000 in local funds for consultant services during the current legislative session for research and analysis of alternative funding strategies related to the Rail Relocation Fund and ongoing discussions with Union Pacific.
- The Committee approved up to $5,000 in local funds for legislative assistance during the current session.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Station Location Evaluation Criteria

Tom Shelton noted that the Program Management Oversight Committee directed Carter-Burgess to develop criteria for establishing station locations in response to questions from the District’s local jurisdictions. The criteria were presented to the PMO Committee on April 20, and refined based on the Committee’s feedback.

Stations are an important piece of the rail system because the station is the point where riders interact with the system—it’s the point of reference and recognition. Proper location is critical to the project’s success. To guide the station evaluation process, policy goals should be clearly identified. On April 20, the PMO Committee voted unanimously to recommend to the Board six policy goals as the goals for the overall rail system and for the station location evaluations:
- Maximize transit ridership
- Maximize development potential
- Minimize environmental impact
- Minimize capital cost
- Minimize annual operation and maintenance cost
- Minimize real estate acquisition impact
Mr. Shelton outlined the station evaluation process. To engage cities, counties and agencies in the corridor, a technical advisory committee would be convened for each city for their respective stations. Rail District staff and the consultant team would lead the effort, which is expected to take 6 months. The station evaluation process would be conducted concurrently with preliminary engineering and environmental analysis to take advantage of the public involvement element included in that phase of project development. The process could begin as early as fall of 2007.

Mr. Shelton described the general criteria that would be used to evaluate alternative sites for a given station, and directed the Board’s attention to the detailed criteria included in the agenda packet. The criteria use a 5-point ranking system, and are divided into four key areas of analysis:
- Program and function
- Access and transportation
- Environment and urban design
- Real estate
Board discussion followed on who pays to develop stations, member jurisdictions’ need for assistance on how to incorporate transit-oriented development in their current regulations and implement TOD in their cities, the importance of connectivity and circulation at each station to maximize ridership, and the need to educate each city on connectivity issues.

Mariano Camarillo, PMO Committee Chair, stated that the Committee makes a motion that the Board approve the policy goals and evaluation criteria presented by Mr. Shelton, and that the evaluation process be conducted concurrent with preliminary engineering. The motion was approved unanimously.
Presentation on Results of Financial and Economic Benefits Study

Chairman Covington introduced the item by noting that the Financial and Economic Benefits Study was done at the request of the Transportation Commission and provided another opportunity to peer review the project’s benefits and validate the District’s previous studies.

Clif Davis stated that the Financial and Economic Benefits Study is the third economic study conducted by the District and is the most comprehensive study to date on benefits to the region, the State, and Union Pacific Railroad. The key finding of the study is that the aggregate local-regional- state benefit is $3.2 billion over 18 years (2012-2030). In the context of the project’s capital and operating costs—$1 billion from 2012 to 2030—the project provides a 3-to-1 return. For every dollar spent on the project, the region and State can expect a $3 return in economic benefits.

Mr. Davis presented the study results, which quantified financial benefits to the users of the regional transportation system (reduced congestion delay, fuel cost savings), financial benefits to the State of Texas (savings in highway construction and maintenance, air quality benefit, avoidance of accidents), financial benefits to freight railroads (savings in travel time), and economic development benefits to the region and the State (increases in gross state product, personal income, property values, taxable sales, and local, regional and state tax revenues).
- Costs savings to the region and the State (2012-2030): $1.3 billion
- Economic benefit to Union Pacific (2012-2030): $38 million - $104 million
- Economic benefits to the region and the State (2012-2030): $16 billion - $17 billion total tax base impact, and $1.8 billion total tax revenue impact.
Board members stated that the project’s benefits aren’t being promoted and communicated aggressively enough. District staff and the consultant team can promote the project on a technical level, but each Board member needs to be engaged and initiate talks with policy makers in their jurisdiction to ensure that the decision makers are well informed. Board members noted that the construction cost of $380 million for two additional highway lanes on I-35 seems too low given the cost of recently completed projects and AASHTO’s estimate of $40 million per mile for urban highways. Mr. Davis stated that the estimate was conservatively low and does not include interchanges and additional right-of-way, but he will review the costs with Mr. Milloy.
Financial Report

Ross Milloy directed the Board’s attention to two financial reports in the agenda packet: the check reconciliation report and the 2nd quarter statement.
Legislative Update

Ross Milloy reported on the current legislative session, saying that funding for rail relocation would be difficult to achieve in the existing legislative environment. Senator Wentworth and Representative Ruth McClendon are both working to help get financing for the rail relocation fund. Mr. Milloy is also pursuing funding for rail relocation from the Texas Emissions Reduction Program. In the next 2- 3 weeks Board members may be asked to contact legislators to express support for the Rail Relocation Fund, and Mr. Milloy urged members to respond.
Other Business
1. Status Report on Meetings with Member and Local Jurisdictions
  
  Alison Schulze directed the Board’s attention to the summary of questions and comments from local jurisdictions’ senior staff, which is included in the agenda packet, and to the handout—a report card on meetings to date, financial support, and action needed. Staff and the consultant team have made progress: 16 meetings with policy boards and 9 meetings to- date with senior staff. In addition, the District is attracting new members—Hays County and the City of New Braunfels will consider joining the District in May. The public and the policy makers support the project, but that support isn’t being communicated to the jurisdictions’ senior staff. Rail District staff needs help and support from the Board to advance the cause. Of the 16 jurisdictions, only four have shown a willingness to support the project financially. Staff needs the Board’s help to turn the “undecideds” into “yeses” in terms of financial support.
  
  Board discussion followed. Local jurisdictions need specific information on cost sharing, rather than a range of costs; and they need to know which year local funds are needed and what year service will start. The Rail District needs to identify the exact amount needed from each jurisdiction and when it’s needed. Local jurisdictions also need to balance competing priorities within limited budgets. The Board suggested staff and the consultant team call each Board member to brief them on the meeting held with their staff.
2. 2007 Texas Transportation Forum, July 18-20
  
  The Texas Transportation Forum will be held in Austin on July 18-20. It would be useful for Board members to attend. Board members can contact staff for registration information.
3. Amtrak and Talgo Trains, Seattle, August 2007
  
  Amtrak and Talgo (a Spanish rail car manufacturer) are going to invite the Board to visit Seattle in August to demonstrate the Sounder passenger rail system and Talgo’s higher-speed rail car. When specific dates become available, Mr. Milloy will distribute the information to Board members.
Public Comment

Mr. Jerry Roane spoke on TriTrack, a personal monorail system. TriTrack could be built faster and cheaper and would provide faster service than conventional commuter rail trains. TriTrack is an elevated system supported by pipes every 60 feet, so environmental clearance would probably be waived. Each car seats 4 people and travels at 180 mph. TriTrack is new technology and not currently in use in the U.S. Texas Transportation Institute is conducting a study on TriTrack that should be complete by September. Chairman Covington asked Mr. Roane to send information on TriTrack to Alison Schulze—in particular, the TTI study—for distribution to the Board.
Adjourn

Chairman Covington announced that the next Board meeting would be on June 1 at AACOG in San Antonio. Mr. Covington thanked Board members and the audience for their attendance and participation. The meeting adjourned at 11:45 a.m.

Minutes March 2, 2007

in Meeting Minutes on 5/7/2007

Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District Board Meeting

Friday, March 2, 2007
10:00 a.m.

Alamo Area Council of Governments (AACOG)
8700 Tesoro
San Antonio, Texas

Call to Order

Notice was duly posted and a meeting of the Austin-San Antonio Commuter Rail District was held on Friday, March 2, 2007. Chairman Covington called the meeting to order at approximately 10:12 a.m.

Participants:
- Sid Covington, Chair
- Tullos Wells, Vice Chair
- Tommy Adkisson
- Gloria Arriaga
- Jeff Barton
- Mary Briseño
- Patty Eason
- Dave Marsh
- Richard Perez
- Carroll Schubert
- John Thomaides
Other participants included Ross Milloy, Bill Bingham, Alison Schulze, and Frank Russo.
Chairman and Member Comments

Chairman Covington welcomed two new Board members: Commissioner Jeff Barton representing Capital Area MPO (CAMPO), and Gloria Arriaga, appointed by Bexar County to represent AACOG’s Alamo Regional Transit.
Consider Approval of February 2 Board Meeting Minutes

Upon a motion by Council Member Richard Perez and second by Council Member John Thomaides, the February 2, 2007 meeting minutes were approved.
Presentation on Public-Private Partnerships for Rail Station Development

Chairman Covington introduced Frank Russo, who is assisting Houston Metro with a wide range of program management services, including implementation of Design-Build-Operate-Maintain-Finance contracts for rail development. Mr. Russo spoke on the principles and benefits of public-private partnering to deliver public transportation projects, and cited examples of public-private partnerships across the country (e.g., New Jersey, Denver, Phoenix, Los Angeles, Miami).

The primary reason that public-private partnerships are becoming more popular is that as projects are getting larger, public agency resources are getting scarcer. In addition, large, complex projects require a large staff dedicated to project management and coordination, which is difficult for most agencies. Good candidates for a public-private partnership (3P) model are projects that are outside the agency’s core area of expertise, projects with complex interface requirements, and projects that need financing—that is, projects that need relief from agencies’ traditional cash flow restrictions.

Benefits for the public sector partner include a single point of responsibility for the agency, and the ability to implement a complex project with a small core agency staff. Benefits for the private sector partner include early involvement in the project’s development; greater financial stability provided by large, long-term projects; and more opportunity for profit consistent with the additional risk they take. Lessons learned from successful 3P projects: involve the industry early in project development (preferably during the preliminary engineering phase), require early partnering meetings, address areas of shared risk, and address changes early and equitably.

A lengthy discussion ensued on Mr. Russo’s Houston Metro experience, the 3P contracting model, public vs. private ownership of infrastructure, and station development.
Committee Report: Program Management Oversight Committee Meeting February 16, 2007

Alison Schulze directed the Board’s attention to the written summary of the meeting included in the agenda packet. On February 16, the PMO Committee unanimously recommended approval of the Carter & Burgess contract amendment, which will be discussed in greater detail under agenda item 6. The Committee also discussed rail station locations. The results of the station area economic analyses indicate that if the goal is economic development potential, some station locations could be improved. However, there may be other goals to consider in addition to economic development. The Committee directed Carter & Burgess to develop criteria and a process for refining station locations. Upon completion, the criteria will be brought to the full Board for policy direction. The PMO Committee also discussed and endorsed the policy statement that it is not financially feasible for the Rail District to provide service to jurisdictions that choose not to join the District.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Amendments to Carter & Burgess Work Authorization and Master Contract

Alison Schulze directed the Board’s attention to two contract amendments in the agenda packet. Ms. Schulze noted that on February 16, the PMO Committee voted unanimously to recommend approval of the following amendments to Carter & Burgess’ work authorization:
- Extend the end date of the work authorization to September 30, 2007
- Additional program management and technical services for Carter & Burgess
- Additional services for Carter & Burgess and Public Financial Management related to meetings with local jurisdictions
- Additional services for Carter & Burgess and M2 Studios for design and development of a video animation of the commuter rail project
The total fee for the additional services is $312,245 which, when added to Carter & Burgess’ current authorized fee, exceeds the fee cap in Carter & Burgess’ master contract. Staff recommended that the master contract be amended to increase the fee cap from $2,250,000 to $2,500,000 to accommodate the additional services approved by the PMO Committee.

Board discussion followed. Upon a motion by Tullos Wells and second by Council Member Richard Perez, the amendment to Carter & Burgess’ work authorization was approved. Upon a motion by Council Member Richard Perez and second by Gloria Arriaga, the amendment to Carter & Burgess’ master contract was approved.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Status of Appointments to Board, Administration of Oath of Office to Newly Appointed Board Members, Mechanism to Stagger Board Terms, and Decision on Board Member Terms

Bill Bingham reported that five Board members have been appointed or reappointed since the February Board meeting: Commissioner Adkisson, Ms. Arriaga, Commissioner Barton, Mr. Covington, and Council Member Kim. Six appointments remain, which include Senator Wentworth, Mayor Pro Tem Harless, Mr. Marsh, Commissioner Daugherty, Council Member Perez, and Mr. Schubert. The remaining appointments are in the process of being made, and all Board members continue to hold their positions until they or a successor are appointed.

Mr. Bingham briefed the Board on the statute regarding staggered terms. The Board has been operating under a system in which each Board member is appointed for two years and all terms expire in February. The statute was amended in 2005 to allow staggered terms so that approximately half of the Board terms expire each February. To establish staggered two-year terms, the Board will assign a one-year term or a two-year term to each Board member position to determine the end date for each position.

There are several mechanisms for staggering terms. Terms can be assigned by agreement or by a general drawing among all members. An additional consideration is that five agencies appoint two Board members. For each of the five agencies that appoint two members, one member could be given a one-year term and the other member could be given a two-year term so that both appointees’ terms don’t end at the same time. Then the remaining seven members would draw one-year or two- year terms. Once each Board position has been assigned either a one-year or two-year term, the end date for each Board position is established so that the terms remain staggered in the future. Mr. Bingham recommended that the Board approve a mechanism for staggering terms, but wait and conduct the drawing after the remaining members have been appointed or reappointed.

Board discussion followed. Upon a motion by Dave Marsh and second by Commissioner Adkisson, the Board approved a mechanism to stagger Board terms by having the appointees from the five agencies that appoint two members agree on one- and two-year terms, and conducting a drawing among the remaining seven members so that three members are assigned one-year terms and four members are assigned two-year terms.

The Board unanimously directed Mr. Bingham to place the approved mechanism in writing, distribute it to the Board, attempt to assist the members appointed by the five agencies to agree on one- and two-year terms, present a motion assigning terms for consideration by the Board, and conduct the drawings when the remaining Board members have been appointed.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Amending Legislation to Expand Definition of Political Subdivisions that May Become Members of the Rail District

Chairman Covington noted that at the February meeting the Board directed Mr. Bingham to develop a recommendation for potentially expanding membership to other entities without increasing the size of the Board. Mr. Bingham outlined a range of options:
- Allow a governmental entity to become a member, but not obtain a seat on the Board. This option could apply to state universities and colleges, who would be represented on the Board by existing members.
- Allow a governmental entity to join the District and get a seat on the Board. This option could apply to smaller cities (cities with a population of less than 18,000), state universities and colleges, and/or regional mobility authorities.
Both options would require amending the state statute. Mr. Bingham noted that under the current statute several entities are eligible to join and have a position on the Board, but have not joined yet, including Hays County, Comal County, New Braunfels, Schertz, Cibolo, and Round Rock.

Board discussion followed on keeping the Board a manageable size, establishing levels of Board membership (e.g., full members, associate members), creating a new category of Board membership that is treated differently in terms of representation, using the vacant Board seat to fill any gaps on the current Board, revising the definition of the vacant Board seat, and leaving the Board as is.

Upon a motion by Carroll Schubert and second by Commissioner Adkisson, the Board sent the issue to the Rules and Procedures Committee for further discussion.
Financial Report

Ross Milloy directed the Board’s attention to two financial reports in the agenda packet: the quarterly statement and the reconciliation report. Two additional items related to financing are also included in the packet: a statement by Senator Hutchison supporting the Austin-San Antonio commuter rail project and an article on discussions in Austin about how certain funds are allocated.
Legislative Update

Ross Milloy reported on the Rail Relocation Fund, which is being considered by the State legislature.
Other Business
1. Committee Assignments
  
  Chairman Covington distributed a list of proposed assignments for the Executive Committee as well as standing Committees. At the next meeting the Board will vote on the Executive Committee. The Board Chairman appoints all other Committees, and the assignments will stand as shown unless a member notifies the Chairman.
2. Status Report on Meetings with Member and Local Jurisdictions
  
  Ross Milloy reported that sixteen meetings were held with elected officials and governing boards of local and member jurisdictions. Overall the meetings and the feedback have been very positive. The final meeting was a presentation on February 28 to a joint meeting of the San Antonio City Council and the Policy Board of the San Antonio-Bexar County MPO. The next step in the process will be to meet with senior staff in each jurisdiction to discuss specific financing mechanisms as well as tax increment financing agreements and transit-oriented development ordinances.
Public Comment

Charlotte Kahl reported that the Old Spanish Trail Centennial planners are working to bring economic development to the east side of San Antonio. Relocating the Austin-San Antonio commuter rail system to Sunset Station on the east side, instead of the proposed west-side route, would generate economic development. There is an existing multimodal transportation facility underneath the Alamodome that could be used by the Rail District.
Adjourn

Chairman Covington announced that the next Board meeting will be April 13 at the Griffith Library in Round Rock. Mr. Covington thanked Board members and the audience for their attendance and participation. There being no further items, the meeting adjourned at 11:51 a.m.

Minutes February 2, 2007

in Meeting Minutes on 3/6/2007

Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District Board Meeting

Friday, February 2, 2007
10:00am

San Marcos Activity Center
501 E. Hopkins
San Marcos, Texas

Call to Order

Notice was duly posted and a meeting of the Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District was held on Friday, February 2, 2007. Chairman Covington called the meeting to order at approximately 10:10 a.m.

Participants:
- Sid Covington, Chair
- Gonzalo Barrientos
- Lisa Birkman
- Mary Briseño
- Mariano Camarillo
- Gerald Daugherty
- Patty Eason
- Fred Harless
- Jennifer Kim
- Dave Marsh
- Al Notzon
- Carroll Schubert
- John Thomaides
Other participants included Ross Milloy, Bill Bingham, Alison Schulze, Clif Davis, and Tom Shelton.
Chairman and Member Comments

Chairman Covington welcomed Board members and the audience. Mr. Covington noted that in January the San Antonio-Bexar County MPO allocated $10 million for the commuter rail project in the FY11 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and earmarked $10 million in the FY12 TIP. He expressed the appreciation of the Rail District for the MPO’s action and thanked Board members Notzon, Adkisson, and Perez for their support.

Chairman Covington recognized outgoing Board members Al Notzon and Senator Barrientos for their outstanding service to the Rail District and presented them with certificates of appreciation. Mr. Covington also noted that as new members are appointed to the Board, he will revisit committee assignments. He encouraged Board members to volunteer for their preferred committees.

Councilmember Thomaides remarked that commuter rail was an important issue in San Marcos’ recent City Council elections. Two of the City’s top state and federal legislative priorities are commuter rail and freight rail relocation.

Al Notzon thanked his fellow Board members for their service and their support. He observed that the Austin-San Antonio corridor needs a reliable alternative to I-35 and the Rail District has an important responsibility to develop a viable option. Commissioner Daugherty commented that commuter rail won’t be as fast or as convenient as cars because riders will have to transfer to other transportation modes to get to their final destinations. Mr. Notzon noted that the commuter rail system will integrate with the local bus systems—VIA, Capital Metro, CARTS and AART—to ensure connectivity. He emphasized that connectivity and integration are key issues to providing a reliable alternative. Commissioner Daugherty reiterated that two of his concerns are connectivity and fares. Councilmember Thomaides noted that Texas State University has 10,000 commuter students and, because parking is limited and expensive, students are looking for a viable alternative even if they have to pay for it. Mary Briseño remarked that the benefit of commuter rail is more than simply providing congestion relief on I-35—it’s also about providing education and employment opportunities and providing an alternative to people who don’t have cars. Chairman Covington noted that Texas State University President Denise Trauth spoke at a Growth Summit the previous day in Austin and said that the university is considering capping enrollment because of the transportation and parking problems on campus, and she strongly urged the region to implement commuter rail service between Austin and San Antonio. Mr. Covington noted that the Board should look at all aspects of the project—economic as well as transportation, benefits as well as costs—and understand that the project is more than the number of daily riders.
Consider Approval of November 3 Board Meeting Minutes

Upon a motion by Fred Harless and second by Dave Marsh, the November 3, 2006 meeting minutes were approved.
Committee Report: Program Management Oversight Committee Meeting December 5, 2006

Committee Chair Mariano Camarillo directed the Board’s attention to the written summary of the meeting included in the agenda packet. On December 5 the Committee met in three different locations via conference call. The Committee voted unanimously to extend the end date of Carter & Burgess’ contract from January 31 to March 31, 2007. The extension allows Carter & Burgess to complete on-going work for the District and present information at the February 2 Board meeting. The contract amendment only extends the end date, it does not change the fee or scope of services.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Status of Appointments to Board, Administration of Oath of Office to Newly Appointed Board Members, Election of Board Officers, and Amendments to Bylaws

Bill Bingham announced Board appointments to date include Birkman, Briseño, Eason, Camarillo, Thomaides and Wells. The remaining appointments are in the process of being made, and all Board members continue to hold their positions until they or a successor are appointed.

Mr. Bingham continued with the election of Board officers. The statute that created the District states the Board will elect a chairman and vice chairman, the District bylaws also add a secretary and treasurer. In the past the Board chose not to elect a secretary and treasurer, but the Board may fill those positions as well. Upon a motion by Carroll Schubert and second by Fred Harless, Sid Covington was unanimously re-elected Board chairman. Upon a motion by Mariano Camarillo and second by Al Notzon, Tullos Wells was unanimously re-elected Board vice-chairman. Following discussion by the Board on the secretary and treasurer positions, and upon a motion by Dave Marsh and second by Patty Eason, John Thomaides was unanimously elected Board secretary. The Board took no action on the treasurer position.

Mr. Bingham directed the Board’s attention to the memo included in the agenda packet on bylaws amendments. He noted that, in accordance with the District’s bylaws, Board members were notified 10 days in advance that amendments would be considered. The proposed amendments on meetings by videoconference and on staggered terms for Board members track the language in the state statute. A lengthy discussion ensued on adding meetings by webconference to the bylaws. Mr. Bingham advised the Board that the District does not currently have statutory authority to conduct meetings by webconference, but the District can conduct meetings by videoconference and provide web access. The Rail District is one of two entities in Texas allowed to conduct meetings by videoconference in non-emergency situations, and was given the authority due to its unique situation of having members located throughout a 112-mile corridor. Videoconferencing will be used initially for Committee meetings. As the technology improves the Board could consider revising the state statute.

The Board also discussed the amendment on staggered terms. Mr. Bingham noted that today’s action on amending the bylaws recognizes there will be staggered terms, with approximately half of the Board rotating each February so that all members’ terms don’t end at one time. Once the full Board is appointed, the Board will take action on how to stagger terms. The mechanism to stagger terms should consider that five entities (TxDOT, Austin, San Antonio, Bexar County, Travis County) appoint two members each to the Board.

Chairman Covington noted that the amendments bring the District’s bylaws into compliance with the state statute, give the District flexibility, and follow the intent of the Open Meetings Act. Upon a motion by Al Notzon and second by Jennifer Kim, the bylaws amendments were approved. The Board directed staff to develop a proposed mechanism for staggering Board terms and present it to the Board in March.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Amending Legislation to Expand Definition of Political Subdivisions that May Become Members of the Rail District

Bill Bingham briefed the Board on membership requirements under the state statute. Currently, counties in the service area and cities with a population of 18,000 may join the District. Other entities have expressed interest in joining; in particular, cities in the service area with a population of less than 18,000. Membership requirements could be loosened to allow any city along the rail line to join regardless of population. The definition of who may become a member of the District could be expanded to also include regional mobility authorities, state colleges and universities, independent school districts, and special districts. If the Board wants to change the membership requirements, the state statute would have to be amended. Board discussion followed on which entities should become members, keeping the Board a manageable size, using some mechanism to allow smaller cities to participate, and the level of financial participation expected for new members. Several Board members noted that school districts and universities are already represented by the city council members and county commissioners on the Board, and all organizations are welcome to attend, offer comments, and participate in Board meetings.

Mr. Bingham noted that a section in the statute creates a Board position, now vacant, for an elected official to represent all municipalities in the District that are not otherwise represented. If the Board expands the definition to include all local governments and universities, the vacant position could be used to represent other entities that wished to join. The Board directed staff to develop a recommendation that would let other organizations have a voice while not increasing the size of the Board.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Resolution of Support for Texas Rail Relocation and Improvement Fund

Ross Milloy presented a resolution in support of the Rail Relocation Fund for the Board’s approval. Board discussion followed and Commissioner Daugherty recommended language be added to the resolution that the $200 million annual appropriation for the Rail Relocation Fund not come out of Fund 6. Upon a motion by Dave Marsh and second by Lisa Birkman, the resolution in support of the Rail Relocation and Improvement Fund was approved as amended.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Contract Extension for Federal Legislative Assistance

Ross Milloy briefed the Board on the consultant selection process in 2006 for federal legislative assistance. In June 2006 the Board authorized Mr. Milloy to execute a contract with Smith, Dawson & Andrews through the end of the fiscal year (September 2006). The Rail District needs continued legislative assistance and Mr. Milloy requested the contract be extended for one year. Board discussion followed on the District’s recent lobbying efforts in Washington DC, federal legislative priorities, the 2006 request for proposals, and the Proposal Evaluation and Selection Committee’s process. Council member Kim requested that the work plan for the legislative program be distributed to the full Board. Upon a motion by Dave Marsh and second by John Thomaides, a one-year contract extension was approved. The Board directed the consultant team to brief the Proposal Evaluation and Selection Committee (Dave Marsh, Commissioner Adkisson, Council member Thomaides) on the federal legislative program, notify the full Board of the meeting date and time, and report back to the Board.
Presentation on Results of Financial and Economic Benefits Study

In August 2006 the Board directed Carter & Burgess and Cambridge Systematics to conduct a study to quantify the benefits of the commuter rail project. Clif Davis and Tom Shelton presented the draft results, which focused on four areas:
- Financial benefits to users of the regional transportation system in terms of reduced congestion delay and fuel cost saving: cumulative cost saving of $544 million to $584 million over 18 years (2012-2030)
- Financial benefits to the State in terms of savings in highway construction and highway maintenance, air quality benefits, and savings in accident avoidance: cumulative cost saving of $1.5 billion over 18 years (2012-2030)
- Financial benefits to freight railroads in terms of savings in travel time and additional freight: aggregate benefit of $11 billion to $21 billion over 18 years (2012-2030)
- Economic benefits to the region and the State in terms of additional jobs, increased tax base, and increased tax revenues: aggregate benefit of $6 billion to $7 billion over 18 years (2012-2030)
There are substantial and significant benefits associated with the project. The Board commended the consultant team on their analysis. Board discussion followed on identifying the economic benefits to local jurisdictions. The final report will be delivered in the next few weeks.
Financial Report

Ross Milloy directed the Board attention to two financial reports in the agenda packet. The first quarter statement shows the Rail District is under budget in all categories for the year.
Legislative Update

There was nothing to report.
Other Business
1. Status Report on Meetings with Member and Local Jurisdictions
  
  Ross Milloy briefed the Board on the recent meetings with local jurisdictions and observed that the smaller communities seem to want the project more and are working more aggressively to implement the project than the larger communities. Mr. Milloy also noted that the counties expressed they don’t have the same level of revenue or access to revenue as the cities, and they don’t feel the counties will see as many benefits as the cities. Overall, all jurisdictions are interested in the project and the meetings have provided meaningful dialog on substantive issues. Mr. Milloy thanked Board members—particularly, Sid Covington and Mariano Camarillo—for attending the meetings and showing Board support.
2. Status Reports on Seaholm Station Location Study and VIA Westside Multimodal Center Study
  
  Alison Schulze reported that the Seaholm Study is complete, the results have been presented to the Rail District and Austin City Council, and are scheduled to be presented to Capital Metro in February. The report is available on CD upon request.
  
  Alison Schulze reported that the VIA Study is underway, Parsons Transportation Group/ Wilbur Smith Associates were selected as the consultant team in January, and the study is scheduled for completion by May 2007. The Rail District is one of the funding partners on the study.
3. Status Report on PBS&J Billing Adjustment
  
  Bill Bingham briefed the Board on the PBS&J contract, which expired in March 2006. At that time, the Rail District received a refund of approximately $30,000. Since then, PBS&J adjusted its billing and overhead rates and the Rail District is due an additional refund of about $23,000 plus interest. On TxDOT’s recommendation the Rail District will accept the additional refund and the matter will be closed. Board action is not necessary.
Public Comment

There were no comments from the public.
Adjourn

Chairman Covington announced that the next Board meeting will be March 2 at AACOG in San Antonio and the PMO Committee will meet February 16 in San Marcos. Mr. Covington thanked Board members and the audience for their attendance and participation. There being no further items, the meeting adjourned at 12:10 p.m.

Minutes November 3, 2006

in Meeting Minutes on 2/5/2007

Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District Board Meeting

Friday, November 3, 2006
10:00am

AACOG Conference Room
8700 Tesoro
San Antonio, Texas

Call to Order

Notice was duly posted and a meeting of the Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District was held on Friday, November 3, 2006. Chairman Covington called the meeting to order at approximately 10:15 a.m.

Participants:
- Sid Covington, Chair
- Tullos Wells, Vice Chair
- Tommy Adkisson
- Lisa Birkman
- Mary Briseño
- Mariano Camarillo
- Patty Eason
- Fred Harless
- Jennifer Kim
- Dave Marsh
- Al Notzon
- Carroll Schubert
- Jeff Wentworth
Other participants included Ross Milloy, Bill Bingham, Alison Schulze, Chris Blewett, Lonnie
Blaydes, Clif Davis, and Allan Zreet.
Chairman and Member Comments

Chairman Covington thanked Board members and the audience for attending the meeting. Mary Briseño commended Mr. Covington, Rail District staff and consultants for an insightful and well done presentation to the VIA Board of Directors and noted the presentations to local jurisdictions are a good way to start the discussion in each community. Tommy Adkisson noted that on November 1st Bexar County issued transit cards to its employees that will allow them to ride VIA free of charge and will help reduce parking demand at County offices. Bexar County also challenged the top 100 employers to follow the County’s lead.
Consider Approval of September 8 Board Meeting Minutes

Upon a motion by Al Notzon and second by Tommy Adkisson, the September 8, 2006 meeting minutes were approved.
Committee Reports
1. Finance Committee Meeting September 20, 2006
  
  Finance Committee Chair Mariano Camarillo directed the Board’s attention to the written summary of the Committee meeting included in the agenda packet. On September 20 the Committee reviewed the first draft of the cost-benefit presentation and provided input to the presentation team. The Committee also reviewed the FY07 budget, and recommended approval of the budget as amended by the Committee. The amended FY07 budget will be presented to the Board for action under agenda item 5. In addition, the Committee reviewed and discussed the Rail District’s internal accounting procedures, and directed staff to hire an outside auditor to assist the District with its auditing functions and to review the District’s accounting systems and make recommendations for internal controls as well as auditing systems and procedures.
2. Finance Committee Meeting October 18, 2006
  
  Committee Chair Camarillo directed the Board’s attention to the written summary of the Committee meeting included in the agenda packet. On October 18 the consultant team presented the revised cost-benefit presentation, and the Committee refined and fleshed out the presentation’s message. Mr. Camarillo commended staff and the Carter-Burgess team for their hard work and noted the presentation team has a full calendar of meetings with local jurisdictions in the coming weeks. Mary Briseño reported that the presentation to VIA on October 24 was well received.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Revised FY07 Budget

Ross Milloy briefed the Board on the FY07 budget revisions approved by the Finance Committee. Based on two years of expenditures, staff identified costs (about $20,000) that should be borne by the Rail District but were being absorbed by the Corridor Council. In addition, the Corridor Council’s computer network can no longer accommodate Rail District files, so the budget includes the cost ($3,800) of a new server for the Rail District. As a result of the above costs, the amount in reserve is reduced to $24,000. The Finance Committee recommended approval of the revised FY07 budget. The Board unanimously approved the Committee’s recommendation.
Presentation on New Mexico Rail Runner Express Implementation

Chris Blewett, Director of Transportation and Planning Services for the Mid Region Council of Governments (New Mexico), also serves as project manager for the New Mexico Rail Runner Express. Mr. Blewett briefed the Board on the practical implementation issues surrounding the New Mexico commuter rail system, which runs in existing Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) right-of- way and will ultimately connect Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Topics included:
- Project timeline
- Project scope
- Project funding
- Organizational structure
- Getting people on board
- Target markets
The New Mexico Rail Runner Express was championed by Governor Richardson and financed with
state funds approved by the New Mexico legislature in August 2003. Federal funds were not used or
pursued to finance the project, mostly because of the Governor’s direction to implement the project in
2 years. Phase 1, which runs on existing BNSF tracks and includes 3 stations, opened in July 2006
and carried 200,000 riders in the first 12 weeks. By December 2008 the system will expand to 100
miles with 9 stations. Additional information on the New Mexico commuter rail system can be found
on its website.
Presentation on Results of Cost Estimate Analysis

In May 2006 the Board directed staff to conduct an independent review of Carter-Burgess’ conceptual-level capital and operating assumptions and cost estimates. Lonnie Blaydes was retained to perform the review and presented the results of his analysis. Overall, the total estimate of $612 million is sufficient to support initial service, but not express service. For the most part, capital cost estimates are reasonable. Mr. Blaydes identified the following issues for consideration:
- Operating assumptions: The Initial Service Plan includes a relatively high level of service for a new system. Typical start-up service is usually more modest in terms of number of trains per day and initial length. Double tracking would be necessary to operate reliable express service. Higher emphasis should be placed on schedule reliability than on train frequency.
- The estimate for signals is reasonable for initial service, but is not sufficient to support a double-tracked system. Consider using a GPS-based signal system for safety issues.
- The estimate for support facilities (maintenance yard and shop, administrative facilities) seems low unless an existing yard is available.
- Grade crossing estimates are high from a safety and operations perspective; not all grade separations appear necessary for commuter rail operations; implementing quiet zones is a policy issue, not a safety or operations issue.
- Vehicle estimates are the largest line item and appear reasonable. Locomotive hauled trains should be considered instead of DMUs for cost savings and availability.
Presentation on Results of Seaholm Station Location Study

Allan Zreet, Carter-Burgess, briefed the Board on the Seaholm Station Location Study, which was initiated early in 2006 in response to impending redevelopment of the former Seaholm power plant area—site of the proposed commuter rail station in downtown Austin. The purpose of the study is to ensure right-of-way is preserved for the rail station as the site is redeveloped and to maximize intermodal connections with Capital Metro, CARTS and Amtrak. The study was jointly funded by the Rail District, City of Austin, and Capital Metro. Mr. Zreet presented information on site constraints, the Seaholm District Master Plan, emerging residential projects in central Austin, the six alternatives considered, and design and evaluation criteria.

The recommended alternative is east of Lamar Blvd., and was selected for the following reasons:
- Provides the best connections with Capital Metro’s bus and streetcar operations, Amtrak, and the planned extension of the Pfluger Bridge pedestrian-bicycle path.
- Most compatible with the Seaholm Plan and other adjacent planned redevelopment projects.
- Most cost-effective alternative with lowest capital construction cost.
Board discussion ensued on connections between the Amtrak and Rail District stations and the possibility of sharing a station, and the implications of abandoning the rail “Y” right-of-way on the Seaholm property.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on 2007 Board Meeting Calendar

Alison Schulze presented the proposed 2007 calendar of Board meetings. Once the meeting dates are approved, staff will lock in specific locations for each meeting. Upon a motion by Fred Harless and second by Jennifer Kim, the 2007 Board meeting calendar was approved.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Board Policy Regarding Public Distribution
of Agenda Items Prior to Board Meetings

Alison Schulze briefed the Board on the Rail District’s current procedures for distributing agenda items to the public prior to Board meetings:
- Board agendas are posted with the Secretary of State, Hays County, and on the Rail District website one week prior to Board meetings
- Agendas are sent via an e-mail distribution list to interested parties one week in advance
- Meeting minutes are posted on the website upon approval by the Board
- Draft agenda items and back-up material are available upon request after review and approval by the Board.
Dave Marsh noted that TxDOT posts Commission meeting agendas and minute orders on its website one week prior to Commission meetings. Upon a motion by Dave Marsh and a second by Fred Harless, the Board directed staff to review TxDOT’s policy and to the extent feasible mirror TxDOT.
Financial Report

Ross Milloy directed the Board attention to financial reports in the agenda packet. The Rail District is on or under budget in all categories.
Legislative Update

Ross Milloy encouraged members of the Rail District and jurisdictions in the Austin-San Antonio Corridor to approve resolutions of support for the Texas Rail Relocation Fund. Funding for the Rail Relocation Fund will be considered in the upcoming legislative session that convenes in January 2007.
Other Business
1. Status Report on Contract with TxDOT to Use Transportation Credits as Non-Federal Match for Funds Transferred to FTA
  
  Alison Schulze reported that $100,000 is being transferred to FTA from the District’s FHWA funds. The funds will be used to provide assistance to member jurisdictions with tax increment financing and transit-oriented development agreements. TxDOT provides the required non-federal match—in the form of transportation credits—for the District’s FHWA funds. The Rail District is executing a contract with TxDOT to transfer $25,000 in transportation credits to FTA for the non-federal match for the FTA project. Chairman Covington signed the contract on October 24th, which will be executed upon TxDOT’s signature.
2. Status Report on Meetings with Member and Local Jurisdictions
  
  Ross Milloy briefed the Board on the interactive meetings with local jurisdictions on the costs and benefits of the commuter rail project. The first presentation was held on October 24th with the VIA Board of Directors and was well received; the remaining 15 meetings will occur between November and January. Mr. Milloy thanked Mary Briseño for her support and assistance in setting up the VIA meeting, and commended Chairman Covington, Senator Wentworth and Councilman Perez for attending the VIA meeting and for their eloquent comments on the need for the project. Mr. Milloy urged all Board members to attend at least one of the upcoming meetings. Alison Schulze distributed an updated schedule of meetings. Chairman Covington encouraged members to show support for the project by attending as many meetings as possible, and reiterated that Board members’ presence visibly demonstrates regional support and interest.
Public Comment

Mr. Royce Hill spoke on the benefits of an elevated monorail system for high speed commuting.
Adjourn

Chairman Covington thanked Board members and the audience for their attendance and participation. There being no further items, the meeting adjourned at 12:20 p.m.

Minutes September 8, 2006

in Meeting Minutes on 11/8/2006

Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District Board Meeting

Friday, September 8, 2006
10:00am

The Meeting Place
400 S. CM Allen Parkway
San Marcos, Texas

Call to Order

Notice was duly posted and a meeting of the Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District was held on Friday, September 8, 2006. Chairman Covington called the meeting to order at approximately 10:08 a.m.

Participants:
- Sid Covington, Chair
- Mary Briseño
- Mariano Camarillo
- Gerald Daugherty
- Patty Eason
- Fred Harless
- Dave Marsh
- Al Notzon
- Carroll Schubert
- John Thomaides
Other participants included Ross Milloy, Bill Bingham, Alison Schulze, Clif Davis, and Tom Shelton.
Chairman and Member Comments

Chairman Covington thanked Board members and the audience for attending the meeting. Mr. Covington announced that he appointed Austin City Council Member Jennifer Kim to the Executive Committee and the Finance Committee to replace Council Member Betty Dunkerley.

Mr. Covington reported on his recent tour of the New Mexico Rail Runner Express commuter rail facilities, and distributed a handout, Frequently Asked Questions, that provides information on the New Mexico commuter rail system.

Phase 1 of the system—Albuquerque to Bernalillo—includes 7 trains per day and 3 stations; current ridership far exceeds early projections. Herzog operates the system in the existing BNSF corridor.
Consider Approval of August 4 Board Meeting Minutes

Al Notzon requested the meeting minutes be amended to change the wording in the summary of items to be included in the cost-benefit presentation (agenda item 9, page 4), as follows: delete “concept of phased implementation” and replace it with “project timeline.”

Upon a motion by Dave Marsh and second by John Thomaides, the August 4, 2006 meeting minutes were approved as amended.
Committee Reports: Program Management Oversight Committee Meeting August 29, 2006

PMO Committee Chair Mariano Camarillo directed the Board’s attention to a written summary of the Committee meeting included in the agenda packet. Mr. Camarillo summarized the Committee’s actions and recommendations on August 29, which included the following:
- The PMO Committee recommends approval of the amendment to A3 Design’s contract for website services. The Committee recommendation will be presented for Board discussion and action under agenda item 6.
- The PMO Committee recommends approval of the amendment to Carter-Burgess’ master contract for planning and engineering services. The Committee recommendation will be presented for Board discussion and action under agenda item 7.
- The PMO Committee recommends approval of the amendment to Carter-Burgess’ work authorization. Additional services include cost-benefit presentations to local jurisdictions, per Board direction in August. The Committee recommendation will be presented for Board discussion and action under agenda item 7.
- The PMO Committee approved an amendment to Carter-Burgess’ work authorization, in accordance with Board direction on August 4th. Carter-Burgess and Cambridge Systematics will conduct a financial and economic benefits study for a fee not to exceed $50,000.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action to Amend Program Management Oversight Committee’s Authority to Authorize Contracts and Expenditures

In November 2003, the Board authorized the PMO Committee to approve contracts up to $50,000 through PBS&J, the program management consultant. Upon a motion by Al Notzon and second by Fred Harless, the Board unanimously voted to remove the stipulation of PBS&J and grant the PMOCommittee the authority to approve any non-controversial contracts, work authorizations, and expenditures.

The PMO Committee will continue to report any such actions to the full Board, and the limit of the Committee’s authority remains at $50,000.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Amendment to A3 Design Contract for Website and Print Design Services

Alison Schulze described the contract amendment for A3 Design, which includes a one-year extension (to September 30, 2007) of the current contract, continuation of monthly website services, and design and print services for an updated brochure insert as well as two new public outreach brochures to be developed under the direction of the Public information (PI) Committee. The total fee for the services is $35,000.

On August 29, the PMO Committee voted unanimously to recommend approval of A3 Design’s contract amendment, with the caveat that the PI Committee confirm and/or modify the stated number of deliverables for each publication as each product is developed.

The PI Committee and Rail District staff also recommend approval of the contract amendment. Upon a motion by Dave Marsh and second by John Thomaides, the Board unanimously voted to approve the PMO Committee’s recommendation and caveat, and authorized the Interim Executive Director to execute the contract.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Amendments to Carter-Burgess Master Contract and Work Authorization No. P&PE-1, Alternatives Analysis and Conceptual Engineering

Alison Schulze summarized the contract amendment to Carter-Burgess’ master contract. The amendment extends the master contract for one year to September 30, 2007, and increases the fee cap from $2 million to $2.25 million. The master contract establishes a maximum allowable fee, but spending is authorized under subsequent work authorizations.

On August 29, the PMO Committee voted unanimously to recommend approval of the amendment to the master contract. Upon the
motion for approval from the PMO Committee, the Board unanimously voted to approve the amendment to Carter-Burgess’ master contract.

Alison Schulze summarized the contract amendment to Carter-Burgess’ work authorization. The amendment to the work authorization (supplemental agreement #9) includes the following:
- A credit for $116,000 for tasks related to the New Starts application, which are no longer required since the Board decided not to submit an application at this time
- Additional services by Public Financial Management (PFM) for the one-on-one meetings with local jurisdictions ($108,070)
- Miscellaneous program management and technical services tasks by Carter-Burgess ($86,700)
- Additional services by Carter-Burgess for the one-on-one meetings with local jurisdictions ($68,535)
- Increasing the maximum amount payable for the work authorization from $1.89 million to $2.04 million
Ms. Schulze directed the Board’s attention to the scope of services for the meetings with local jurisdictions. The scope identifies the items to be included in the cost-benefit presentation and the
jurisdictions with which the consultants, staff and Board will meet. Ms. Schulze also noted that the agenda packet includes a draft letter to be sent the following week to each Board member that states the purpose and timeframe of the meetings.

Al Notzon requested Exhibit A.1, Scope of Services, be amended to change the wording in the summary of the cost-benefit presentation (page 3 of 6), as follows: delete “concept of phased implementation” and replace it with “project timeline.” Dave Marsh requested the letter to Board members be amended to change the last word from “crisis” to “issues.”

Board discussion followed on the purpose and expected outcome of the meetings with local jurisdictions. The objectives of the meetings are to share information on the project and its costs, talk
about local funding sources, discuss methods to allocate local costs, and identify each jurisdiction’s level of support.

Fred Harless requested the presentation be given to the Board before the meetings begin. Board Chair Covington suggested the draft presentation be made to the Finance Committee to keep the process on schedule. Staff will notify and invite all Board members to attend the Committee meeting to preview the presentation.

On August 29, the PMO Committee voted unanimously to recommend approval of supplemental agreement #9 to Carter-Burgess’ work authorization. Upon the motion for approval from the PMO Committee, the Board unanimously voted to approve the amendment to Carter-Burgess’ work authorization as amended by Mr. Notzon.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on FY07 Budget

Ross Milloy directed the Board’s attention to the budget for Fiscal Year 2007, which consolidates the local and federal budget in one document. Mr. Milloy pointed out two changes in the budget for
local funds in the upcoming fiscal year:
- An increase of $14,000 for Corridor Council staff to initiate and maintain the District’s document control system
- An increase of $50,000 for federal assistance in Washington DC
Bill Bingham noted that the District’s federal funds and local funds must be accounted for separately in accordance with federal guidelines, and the budget document consolidates the funds for
presentation purposes only.

Upon a motion by Mariano Camarillo and second by Mary Brisen˜o, the Board unanimously voted to conditionally approve the FY07 budget subject to review by the Finance Committee. The Finance Committee will report back to the Board in November on recommended changes to the budget, if any.
Consider Status Report on MoPac/Loop 1 Study and Seaholm Station Location Study

Tom Shelton briefed the Board on the Seaholm Station Location Study, which was initiated early in 2006 in response to impending redevelopment of the former Seaholm power plant site. The site is the location of the proposed commuter rail station in downtown Austin.

The purpose of the study is to ensure that right-of-way is preserved for the rail station as the site is redeveloped, and to locate the
platform to maximize ridership and transit-oriented development opportunities. The study is jointly funded by the Rail District, City of Austin, and Capital Metro. The final draft report will be delivered next week.

Clif Davis briefed the Board on TxDOT’s MoPac/Loop 1 Study in central Austin, which is underway. TxDOT is studying adding managed lanes in the right-of-way adjacent to the existing Union Pacific
track. In central Austin, the UP right-of-way is constrained at only 60 feet.

TxDOT would need 21 feet of the 60 feet to add managed lanes, leaving 39 feet for freight and future commuter rail
operations. The Rail District sent a letter to TxDOT in May 2006 requesting that TxDOT coordinate with the Rail District and not preclude future passenger rail opportunities. Carter-Burgess and the Rail District continue to meet and coordinate with TxDOT on the project.

Clif Davis also briefed the Board on Lonnie Blaydes’ analysis of the cost estimates generated by Carter-Burgess. The purpose of the analysis is to examine the cost estimates and identify areas where
costs could be streamlined. The results of the analysis will be presented to the PMO Committee in October.

At Al Notzon’s request, Alison Schulze briefed the Board on the status of VIA’s study of the Westside Multi-Modal Center in downtown San Antonio. VIA issued a Request for Proposals in September and anticipates selecting a consultant team by the end of the year. The Rail District committed $25,000 to help fund the study, which is expected to get underway in early 2007.

At Fred Harless’ request, Bill Bingham briefed the Board on the status of negotiations with Union Pacific. The consultant team has been meeting to frame the discussions and hopes to initiate meetings with UP before the end of the year, at which time Mr. Bingham will report back to the Board.
Financial Report

Mr. Milloy directed the Board attention to financial reports in the agenda packet. The Rail District is under budget for the quarter and for the year.
Legislative Update

Mr. Milloy reported that the City of Georgetown, VIA, and the City of San Marcos adopted resolutions in support of funding the Texas Rail Relocation Fund. He encouraged all members of the
Rail District and all jurisdictions in the Austin-San Antonio Corridor to approve resolutions of support. Council Member Thomaides reported that he is meeting with Texas State University to
approve such a resolution.
Other Business

Dave Marsh reported that he received a request that the District post all agenda items on the website prior to Board meetings. Mr. Marsh requested guidance from legal counsel and the Board on
distributing agenda items prior to Board consideration and action.

Mr. Bingham stated the Rail District routinely posts meeting agendas on the website and, upon Board approval, the meeting minutes of each Board meeting. Other agenda items, with the exception of draft documents and attorney-client-privilege issues, can be posted on the website once approved by the Board.

Mr. Marsh requested written guidance and suggested that the Board develop a policy on the issue. Mr. Bingham suggested staff develop draft guidance on the issue for the Board’s consideration at the next meeting.

Al Notzon reported on an article on North Carolina and New Starts in the recent edition of Metro magazine. The article states that North Carolina’s evaluation process has lasted 100 months and shows signs of lengthening. The article validates the Board’s decision not to pursue New Starts at this time.
Public Comment

There was no public comment.
Adjourn

Chairman Covington thanked Board members and the audience for their attendance and participation. There being no further items and upon a motion by Dave Marsh and second by Gerald Daugherty, the meeting adjourned at 11:15 a.m.

Minutes August 4, 2006

in Meeting Minutes on 9/12/2006

Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District Board Meeting

Friday, August 4, 2006
10:00am

AACOG Conference Room
8700 Tesoro
San Antonio, Texas

Call to Order

Notice was duly posted and a meeting of the Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District was held on Friday, August 4, 2006. Chairman Covington called the meeting to order at approximately 10:11am.

Participants:
- Sid Covington, Chair
- Tullos Wells, Vice-Chair
- Tommy Adkisson
- Lisa Birkman
- Mary Briseño
- Mariano Camarillo
- Patty Eason
- Jennifer Kim
- Dave Marsh
- Al Notzon
- Richard Perez
- Carroll Schubert
- John Thomaides
- Jeff Wentworth
Other participants included Ross Milloy, Bill Bingham, Alison Schulze, Clif Davis, and Craig Hoshijima.
Chairman and Member Comments

Chairman Covington welcomed new Board member Council Member Jennifer Kim, representing the City of Austin. He also welcomed Jennifer Moczygemba, the recently appointed Director of TxDOT’s Multimodal Section.

Vice Chair Tullos Wells reported on his recent meeting in Montreal with Bombardier, and on Bombardier’s commuter rail services and their new FRA-compliant regional rail vehicle, the Flexicar. Sid Covington noted that the new Albuquerque rail system is using Bombardier vehicles and suggested that Board members visit the website for the New Mexico Rail Runner Express.
Report on Status of Appointments to the Board and Administration of Oath of Office to Newly Appointed Board Member

Bill Bingham reported that Council Member Jennifer Kim has taken the oath of office, signed the statements, and is officially a member of the Board. (See: Oath, Statement, and Board member
Dunkerley’s resignation.)
Consider Approval of May 5 and June 2 Board Meeting Minutes

Carroll Schubert requested the May 5 meeting minutes be amended to show the correct spelling of Rick Pych’s name. Upon a motion by Richard Perez and second by Tullos Wells, the May 5, 2006 meeting minutes were approved as amended. Board members Kim and Wentworth abstained.

Upon a motion by Richard Perez and second by Patty Eason, the Board approved the June 2, 2006 meeting minutes. Board members Kim and Wentworth abstained.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Resolution Authorizing Interim Executive Director to Enter into Federal Agreements

Alison Schulze reported the District is transferring $100,000 of its federal funds from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). The funds will be used to assist member jurisdictions with transit-oriented development and tax increment financing agreements. Upon a motion by Dave Marsh and second by Richard Perez, the Board unanimously approved a resolution to authorize the Interim Executive Director to enter into federal agreements with FTA.
Committee Reports: Program Management Oversight Committee Meeting July 19, 2006

PMO Committee Chair Mariano Camarillo directed the Board’s attention to a written summary of the Committee meeting included in the agenda packet. Mr. Camarillo summarized the Committee’s actions and recommendations on July 19, which included the following:
- The PMO Committee approved a motion to discontinue the contract with ATSER for the internet-based document control system.
- The PMO Committee recommends that the District spend up to $200,000 to re-establish discussions with Union Pacific. The Committee recommendation will be presented for Board discussion and action under agenda item 7.
- The PMO Committee recommends downtown-Austin-to-downtown-San Antonio as the starter project, and recommends that the Rail District initiate discussions with Williamson County, Georgetown and Round Rock to extend service to the north end of the corridor. The Committee recommendation will be presented for Board discussion and action under agenda item 8.
- The PMO Committee recommends rail system boardings as the method to allocate local costs. The Committee recommendation will be presented for Board discussion and action under agenda item 9.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Contract for Freight Rail Relations and Negotiations

Bill Bingham reported that District leaders met with Ric Williamson, Chair of the Texas Transportation Commission, to discuss District access to Union Pacific’s rail line while not interfering with TxDOT efforts on UP relocation. Chairman Williamson agreed the Rail District should establish direct discussions with UP on early access for commuter rail. Mr. Bingham noted that freight rail relations and negotiations is one of the tasks listed in Rep. Lamar Smith’s federal earmark for the Rail District. Mr. Bingham has assembled a team having experience negotiating agreements with Union Pacific. The team will start staff-level negotiations on early access to the corridor. On July 19 the PMO Committee approved a recommendation to spend up to $200,000 to proceed with UP discussions. The objectives of the discussions are to balance efficient freight rail and passenger rail operations, and identify costs and funding sources. Upon a motion by Tullos Wells and seconds by Dave Marsh and Tommy Adkisson, the Board unanimously approved authorizing the Executive Director to execute a contract with McGinnis, Lochridge and Kilgore not to exceed $200,000, to begin negotiations with Union Pacific.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Starter Project(s)

Clif Davis, Project Director for the Planning and Preliminary Engineering Team, presented information on five potential starter projects. The five project candidates are:
- Georgetown to McNeil
- Round Rock to downtown Austin
- New Braunfels to San Antonio airport/Loop 410
- Loop 1604 to downtown San Antonio
- Downtown Austin to downtown San Antonio
On July 19 the PMO Committee voted to recommend downtown-Austin-to-downtown-San Antonio as the starter project. A lengthy discussion ensued on ridership projections, segment costs, project phasing, and providing service to the entire corridor. Tullos Wells noted the District’s mission is to provide service from Georgetown to south San Antonio, to relieve congestion on I-35, and to provide a reliable transportation alternative. Given the economic development opportunities the system will generate, the District should include as much of the corridor as possible in the initial segment. The Board discussed several options for starter projects, alternative service arrangements, existing passenger service opportunities, and the need to consider the starter project hand-in-hand with project funding. Dave Marsh asked the consultant team to add an additional segment to the list of candidates: downtown Austin to Georgetown. Staff asked the Board to provide direction on the next steps for the consultant team. The Board agreed to postpone action on the starter project until after the presentation on local financing strategies (agenda item 9).
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Local Financing Strategies

Craig Hoshijima, Public Financial Management (PFM), presented information on possible methods for allocating capital and operating costs based on approaches used by other commuter rail systems in the U.S., and year-of-expenditure annual costs that would be paid by the District’s participating jurisdictions. Mr. Hoshijima presented an estimate of the share jurisdictions would pay for each of the five candidate starter projects, based on three different methods of cost allocation, as well as the estimated year-of-expenditure annual costs jurisdictions would pay for the downtown-Austin-to-downtown-San Antonio project based on boardings.

A lengthy discussion ensued on the method to allocate costs (station locations, population, and/or boardings), cost allocations to local jurisdictions for the five starter project candidates, possible funding sources (e.g., tax increment financing zones around stations), elements included in the costs, and additional starter project candidates. Senator Wentworth reiterated the purpose of the project is to relieve congestion on I-35 throughout the corridor and the starter segment should reflect that purpose. The District should think in terms of public and political support. In addition, each member jurisdiction needs to fully understand the project and funding options under consideration by the Rail District.

The Board discussed having staff, assisted by Carter-Burgess and PFM, meet with local jurisdictions throughout the corridor to present the costs and benefits of the project. The purpose would be to brief jurisdictions on the Rail District’s vision and funding scenarios, identify a range of potential costs to each jurisdiction, and ask for feedback on their funding capabilities and sources. Staff would present the entire 112-mile system as the project, present information on station locations and economic development opportunities, and identify the value to each jurisdiction. Meetings should include high-level staff and elected officials, the Rail District Board member from the jurisdiction, and a Board member from outside the area for a regional perspective. In conjunction with the jurisdiction meetings, staff should begin to develop a public education strategy.

The Board identified several items to be included in the cost-benefit presentation:
- Project options: the 112-mile project from San Antonio to Georgetown as well as the project timeline
- Financing options: the range of costs and the potential cost to each jurisdiction as well as possible funding sources (e.g., tax increment financing revenue, bonding, MPO funds, a local/regional tax)
- Station locations and economic benefits
- Potential funding sources of each jurisdiction (jurisdiction to provide feedback on possible sources of funds)
- Existing passenger rail opportunities (option being explored)
Upon a motion by Tullos Wells and second by Senator Wentworth, the Board voted unanimously to (1) direct staff to meet with each jurisdiction from Georgetown to the port of San Antonio and make a cost-benefit presentation about the project and the project’s financing, and (2) direct staff to simultaneously pursue other passenger rail provider opportunities. Staff should report progress on both items at the November Board meeting.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on an I-35 (and Other Appropriate Roadways) Direct Benefits Economic Analysis

Ross Milloy recommended, based on meetings with TxDOT leadership, that the District direct its consultants to conduct a study to quantify the financial and economic benefits of the commuter rail project. Mr. Milloy directed the Board’s attention to a draft scope of work included in the agenda packet. The analysis will evaluate direct potential benefits in several categories including financial benefits in terms of reduced congestion delays, reduced highway infrastructure and maintenance costs, added jobs and tax revenues, and financial benefits to freight railroads. Upon a motion by Al Notzon and second by Richard Perez, the Board unanimously authorized the Executive Director to execute a contract, upon approval from the PMO Committee, not to exceed $50,000 for a study of the financial and economic benefits of the commuter rail project.
Financial Report

Mr. Milloy directed the Board attention to financial reports in the agenda packet.
Legislative Update

Ross Milloy reported that communities throughout the Austin-San Antonio Corridor are beginning to approve resolutions in support of funding the Texas Rail Relocation and Improvement Fund. He asked Board members to encourage their jurisdictions to approve resolutions of support by January 2007.

Mr. Milloy stated that Board members Carroll Schubert and Tullos Wells are beginning discussions with TxDOT on the $25 million franchise payment that Cintra-Zachry will make to TxDOT for the rights to SH 130 segments 5 and 6, and the possibility of dedicating the funds to the commuter rail project.

Mr. Milloy reported that Representative Krusee proposed at the 2004 Joint MPO meeting that each MPO contribute $5 million per year for 10 years to help fund the commuter rail project. Rail District staff will continue to work with both MPOs to obtain the funds for seed money.
Other Business

There was no other business.
Public Comment

There was no public comment.
Adjourn

Chairman Covington thanked Board members and the audience for their attendance and participation. There being no further items and upon a motion by Richard Perez and a second by Tullos Wells, the meeting adjourned at 12:25pm.

Minutes June 2, 2006

in Meeting Minutes on 8/8/2006

Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District Board Meeting

Friday, June 2, 2006
9:00am

San Marcos Activity Center
501 E. Hopkins
San Marcos, Texas

Call to Order

Notice was duly posted and a meeting of the Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District was held on Friday, June 2, 2006. Chairman Covington called the meeting to order at approximately 9:20am.

Participants:
- Sid Covington, Chair
- Tullos Wells, Vice-Chair
- Tommy Adkisson
- Lisa Birkman
- Mary Briseño
- Mariano Camarillo
- Patty Eason
- Fred Harless
- Dave Marsh
- Al Notzon
- Richard Perez
- Carroll Schubert
- John Thomaides
Other participants included Ross Milloy, Bill Bingham, Alison Schulze, Clif Davis, Tom Shelton, Bill Woodford, Pat Coleman, and Craig Hoshijima.
Chairman and Member Comments

Chairman Covington thanked the Board and the audience for attending, and welcomed special guests: Gary Nelon, Mayor, City of Georgetown; Paul Brandenburg, Georgetown City Manager; Jim Briggs, Georgetown Assistant City Manager; Ed Polasek, Georgetown long-range planner; Sheryl Sculley, San Antonio City Manager; and Wilda Won, TxDOT. Mr. Covington explained that the meeting would be a workshop format and standard agenda items would be postponed until the next meeting so that the Board could focus on starter projects and financing strategies.

Chairman Covington directed the Board’s attention to a sample resolution in support of the Texas Rail Relocation and Improvement Fund, included in the agenda packet in response to Board members’ request at the May Board meeting, for each member to use and revise as necessary. Commissioner Adkisson suggested that Board members reach out to various local entities and organizations and emphasize the need to approve resolutions and support State funding of the Rail Relocation and Improvement Fund.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Consultant(s) for Federal Legislative Assistance

Dave Marsh, Chair of the Proposal Evaluation and Selection Committee, reported to the Board that after considering five proposals for Federal Legislative Assistance, the Committee (comprised of Commissioner Adkisson, Councilmember Thomaides, and Dave Marsh) recommends that the Board award the contract to Smith Dawson and Andrews—the District’s current legislative consultant, for the remainder of the fiscal year, which ends September 30, 2006. Bill Bingham noted that the Committee also recommended authorizing the Executive Director to negotiate and execute a contract with Smith Dawson Andrews not to exceed $50,000. Vice-Chairman Wells made a motion to approve the Committee’s recommendations, which was seconded by Councilmember Perez. The Board unanimously approved the motion, with Carroll Schubert abstaining.
Report on Status of Phase 3 (TOD-based) Ridership Results

Clif Davis, Project Director of the Planning & Preliminary Engineering Team, introduced the presentation on Phase 3 ridership with a recap of ongoing issues for the benefit of new Board members and guests. Mr. Davis provided a brief verbal summary on the status of negotiations to access Union Pacific’s right-of-way, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) New Starts process and the Board’s decision to defer the June 30th submittal of a New Starts application, opportunities for alternative federal funding, the Texas Rail Relocation Fund, and the District’s ridership studies. Each issue is a component of implementing the commuter rail project and each affects the project’s funding—the primary topic of today’s workshop.

Bill Woodford and Pat Coleman, AECOM, gave an overview of the three-phase ridership studies performed to date: Phase 1, completed in 2004, for the 2004 Feasibility Study Update; Phase 2, completed in May 2006, developed in compliance with current FTA New Starts regulations; and Phase 3, recently completed, which assumes significant transit-oriented development (TOD) in the vicinity of the stations and travel acceptance of commuter rail equivalent to that in cities with existing commuter rail service. Mr. Woodford reiterated that the Phase 3 results are not based on current FTA rules for ridership modeling and cannot be used for purposes of a New Starts submittal.

The Phase 3 forecast results show a range of average annual ridership in the year 2030 as follows:
- Downtown Austin to Downtown San Antonio: 1,150,500 – 1,178,000
- Round Rock to San Marcos: 2,095,200 – 2,134,700
- San Marcos to Downtown San Antonio: 572,300 – 573,700
- Georgetown to KellyUSA: 3,240,400 – 3,281,600
A brief discussion followed on TOD impacts, ridership projections compared with other systems, tools that drive ridership (e.g., density, connectivity, marketing), and the importance of seamless connections between modes at the stations. The final report on the Phase 3 ridership results will be complete by the end of June.
Consider and Discuss Options and Criteria for Starter Project

Clif Davis and Tom Shelton, Carter & Burgess, presented eight possible options for small starter projects that could be locally funded as an alternative to the federal New Starts program. The starter projects range in length from 15-29 miles, and cost $100-160 million. The advantages of a starter project are two-fold: to develop a track record of ridership and operations with a starter line and then pursue New Starts funding for future extensions of the system, and to implement service early while negotiating with Union Pacific on access to the entire corridor. The starter project would be the first step toward implementing the entire 112-mile system.

The Board commended Carter & Burgess for offering options outside the FTA program. Fred Harless noted that Capital Metro is funding its starter line with local funds and FTA has agreed to recognize the local funds spent on the starter line as Capital Metro’s match for future New Starts grants. Since the local funds could be used as the local match for the future extensions, all Rail District members will benefit from a small locally funded starter line. Chairman Covington noted that as the Board considers local financing strategies in agenda item 7, the Board needs to realistically look at phasing the 112-mile project.
Consider and Discuss Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Funding Program

Ross Milloy noted that FTA’s New Starts program doesn’t recognize the impact of NAFTA trade in the Austin-San Antonio Corridor, the importance of I-35 as a national trade corridor, and the need for transportation alternatives in the corridor. In addition to the FTA program, he is exploring FRA and FHWA programs, which would allow the District to use a cross-disciplinary approach to raise the profile of the corridor. Mr. Milloy distributed a report released by the U.S. Department of Transportation, National Strategy to Reduce Congestion on America’s Transportation Network (May 2006), and said he would continue to pursue all funding avenues.
Consider and Give Direction on Local Financing Strategies

Craig Hoshijima, Public Financial Management (PFM), presented information on local-share cost allocation methods used throughout the country and potential methods to allocate the Rail District’s project costs to local jurisdictions. There are 22 commuter rail systems in the U.S. and the methods used to allocate costs vary widely from simple population-based formulas to complex cost-of-service methods. Typically, the unique characteristics of a system (e.g., route configuration, ridership patterns, funding sources, number of agencies) dictate how the costs are split, and different methods are used to allocate initial capital costs and ongoing operating costs. Mr. Hoshijima highlighted 8 commuter rail systems and reviewed the unique characteristics and cost allocation of each system. He then presented 5 methods to allocate local costs among Rail District jurisdictions: rail miles, city population, county population, station locations, and boardings.

A lengthy discussion ensued. Board members discussed the viability of tax increment financing (TIF) as a funding source. TIF revenue projections are encouraging; but, as a funding mechanism, TIF revenue is uncertain—the Rail District needs to identify existing revenue sources for initial capital costs along with a cash flow schedule. The cities and counties could use TIFs as a basis for a revenue stream over time and a bonding program.

The funding allocation formula must be equitable for all of the entities in the District. Equity should be tied to access and use, and local jurisdictions should resolve to work together in good faith for the benefit of the region.

Members discussed the need to identify sources for the project’s initial capital costs, which would then allow members to realize TIF revenue. The challenge is to find the initial $100-$150 million in local funds to build a starter segment, and to identify each community’s fair share. Building the rail project is a public investment, just like roads and other transportation infrastructure. If local governments aren’t willing to make the investment, economic activity in the corridor will move elsewhere. Board members agreed that the Rail District needs to identify the starter project and the capital cost of the project, allocate the cost to local governments and, once the project and the cost are clearly defined, obtain local funding commitments.

The Board directed the consultants to develop more detailed information on a short list of viable starter projects (target cost about $150 million), project costs (capital costs, operating costs, shared overall project costs, and segment-specific local costs), and funding formulas for the starter segment. The consultants will present the information to the PMO Committee. The PMO Committee will then recommend to the full Board 2 or 3 starter projects and 2 or 3 formulas to allocate local costs.

The Board also directed staff to execute the appropriate contract amendments to allow the consultants to perform the additional work to be presented to the PMO Committee.
Public Comment

There was no public comment.
Adjourn

Chairman Covington thanked Board members, special guests, and the audience for their attendance and participation. There being no further items, the meeting adjourned at 11:45am.

Minutes May 5, 2006

in Meeting Minutes on

Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District Board Meeting

Friday, May 5, 2006
10:00am

AACOG Conference Room
8700 Tesoro
San Antonio, Texas

Call to Order

Notice was duly posted and a meeting of the Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District was held on Friday, May 5, 2006. Chairman Covington called the meeting to order at approximately 10:15am.

Participants:
- Sid Covington, Chair
- Fred Harless Tullos Wells, Vice-Chair
- Al Notzon
- Tommy Adkisson
- Richard Perez
- Mary Briseño
- Carroll Schubert
- Mariano Camarillo
- John Thomaides
- Patty Eason
Other participants included Ross Milloy, Bill Bingham, John Langmore, Clif Davis, and Craig Hoshijima.
Chairman and Member Comments

Chairman Covington thanked the Board and the audience for attending, and noted that it was Cinco de Mayo. Mary Briseño welcomed two members of the VIA Board of Trustees, Eddie Herrera and Rick Pych, and thanked them for attending.

Patty Eason reported that the Georgetown City Council passed the first reading of a transit oriented development (TOD) amendment to the City’s land use plan, and expect to approve the amendment on May 9, 2006. Ed Polasek of the City of Georgetown Planning Department briefed the Board on the City’s TOD amendment.

John Thomaides commented that the City of San Marcos is following Georgetown’s lead in developing a master plan for the downtown area of San Marcos, which will emphasize transit- oriented development.

Chairman Covington directed the Board’s attention to a letter dated May 4 that was sent to Bob Daigh, District Engineer, TxDOT Austin District. Mr. Covington explained that TxDOT is working on methods to expand the MoPac freeway—the corridor in which the Union Pacific right- of-way is located in central Austin. TxDOT recently hired consultants to start a major investment study and preliminary planning. The Rail District’s consultants met with TxDOT’s consultants on the MoPac study, which prompted the letter reminding TxDOT that the CAMPO 2030 Plan requires that TxDOT coordinate any work performed on MoPac with the Rail District and that TxDOT cannot preclude the use of rail in the corridor.
Report on Status of Appointments to the Board and Administration of Oath of Office to Newly Appointed Board Members

Chairman Covington reported that no changes have occurred on the Board since the previous Board meeting.
Consider Approval of April 7 Board Meeting Minutes

On a motion by Richard Perez and second by Patty Eason, the April 7 Board meeting minutes were approved unanimously.
Report on Status of Texas Rail Relocation Plan

John Langmore, former staff director for the Texas House Transportation Committee, reported on the status of the Texas Rail Relocation and Improvement Fund (RRIF), which was approved as a constitutional amendment in November 2005. The RRIF doesn’t have a funding source as yet, but it is anticipated that in 2007 the State Legislature will dedicate a revenue source that can be bonded. The RRIF can be used to relocate, construct, acquire, improve, and rehabilitate either public or private rail facilities, although funding requirements for a public rail line are less stringent than funding requirements for a private facility.

Mr. Langmore outlined requirements for rail relocation projects: relocation projects must be included in TxDOT’s strategic plan on the relocation fund, must be approved by the metropolitan planning organizations, must be approved by a majority of the cities and counties in which the new line is located, and funding can only be used on overpasses and underpasses that are part of the relocation.

In 2007 TxDOT will ask the Legislature to allocate $200 million per year to the RRIF, which would allow approximately $2 billion of bonds. It is incumbent that agencies like the Rail District support upcoming legislation to dedicate revenue sources to the fund.

After a brief discussion, Chairman Covington suggested that all members of the Rail District adopt resolutions in favor of funding the Rail Relocation Fund, and forward the resolutions to the State Legislature prior to the next session, which starts in January 2007. Ross Milloy stated that the District would draft and circulate a standard resolution that could be used by member cities and counties.
Committee Reports
1. Program Management Oversight Committee Meeting
  May 1, 2006
  
  Mariano Camarillo, PMO Committee Chair, directed the Board’s attention to a summary of the May 1 PMO Committee meeting in the agenda packet and stated that the Committee had discussed FTA coordination and issues; received a report from Public Financial Management (PFM) on local funding strategies, which will be presented to Board under item 7; received an update on the ridership models and discussed the FTA New Starts project application, which will be presented to the Board for action under item 8; and discussed the Rail District’s participation in VIA’s study on the Westside Multimodal Center. Chairman Camarillo asked Clif Davis, Project Director for the Planning & Preliminary Engineering (P&PE) Team, to brief the Board on the ridership studies.
  
  Clif Davis reported that the Phase 2 ridership model has not yielded a project that meets FTA thresholds. The P&PE Team continues to fine tune the model and coordinate with FTA and TxDOT, but FTA regulations have gotten more restrictive over the past year. The model is constrained on rail versus bus ridership preference and the impact of proposed transit oriented development. These constraints have reduced ridership projections. FTA is considering changing its rules to allow the preference factor, but the rules have not changed yet.
  
  Mr. Davis stated the Ridership Technical Advisory Committee—comprised of technical experts from the two MPOs, the two transit authorities, TxDOT, and Texas Transportation Institute—will reconvene in May. The Ridership TAC has reviewed and endorsed the model methodology, and will be asked to review the Phase 2 results and the model inputs—in particular, the bus networks.
  
  The Phase 3 model results, which are based on assumptions about transit oriented development and higher density around rail stations will be presented at the June Board meeting.
  
  Mr. Davis reiterated, in response to a question from Vice Chair Tullos Wells, that regardless of whether or not the Rail District submits a project for FTA New Starts funding, the work done to date—ridership studies, conceptual engineering, station design, economic impact analyses—is useful and provides essential data the Rail District will need as it seeks local, state and federal participation. The P&PE Team will report within the next 30 to 60 days whether the District should submit a New Starts application.
  
  Following a brief discussion by the Board on the New Starts process, Chairman Camarillo reminded the Board that the P&PE Team was previously directed to complete a New Starts application by June 30. The PMO Committee recommends that the Rail District defer the New Starts application and that the P&PE Team continue to refine the ridership model. Board Chair Covington stated that the Board would take action under agenda item 8.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Local Financing Strategies

Craig Hoshijima of Public Financial Management (PFM) presented information on local funding strategies and sources. Mr. Hoshijima identified project costs (capital, operating, and debt service) for the full 112-mile system, available grant funding sources (federal, state, and regional), annual local funding requirements for the project, cost allocation methodologies (boardings, rail miles, population, stations), projected annual capital and operating costs, potential new funding sources, and projected revenue from transit oriented development and tax increment financing districts. The key decision for the Board is to select a method to allocate local costs.

Chairman Covington reiterated that the Board needs to provide direction to PFM and make a policy decision on how to allocate local costs. Following Board discussion on allocation options, Tommy Adkisson made a motion, seconded by John Thomaides, to conduct a Board work session on June 2nd—in place of the regular Board meeting—to focus on local funding allocations and strategies. The motion was approved unanimously. The Board also directed the Executive Director to execute a contract, not to exceed $15,000, for an independent analysis of capital cost estimates for the project.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on FTA New Starts Federal Project

Chairman Covington directed the Board’s attention to the earlier discussion on the New Starts application under agenda item 6. On a motion by Fred Harless and a second by Richard Perez, the Board unanimously approved deferring the June 30, 2006 submittal of the FTA New Starts application in order to carry out additional studies. Bill Bingham noted that the Rail District still does not have an agreement with Union Pacific on use of the right-of-way, which is an additional reason to delay the New Starts submittal.
Financial Report

Ross Milloy provided two financial reports for the Board’s information:
- 2006 first quarter statement of income and billable expenses
- Reconciliation detail of checking account, period ending May 4, 2006
Legislative Update

Ross Milloy reported that state legislation has been introduced that would eliminate the cap on the Rail District’s tax increment financing authority. The bill has been filed and is pending the Governor’s open call for additional bills during the special session. Senator Barrientos and Senator Wentworth agreed to co-sponsor the legislation.
Other Business

Bill Bingham noted that on May 1, the PMO Committee recommended the Rail District participate in VIA’s Westside Multimodal Study, and the item was mentioned earlier under agenda item 6. Ross Milloy reported that the Rail District is participating in a joint study of the rail station in the Austin central business district and VIA is proposing a similar study in the San Antonio CBD; however, the scope of VIA’s study includes a number of items that are not relevant to the Rail District. The recommendation is that the District fund up to $25,000 of the study, that the Rail District serve as the fiscal agent for the study, but that VIA manage the study. Mr. Milloy stated there are several contracting issues still under discussion, but the Rail District’s participation would be capped at $25,000, the same level as the Austin study. On a motion by Al Notzon and a second by Tullos Wells, the Board unanimously approved contributing $25,000 to the study and authorized the Executive Director to work out the contracting details.
Public Comment

Joanne Walsh commented that she would like Board agenda items be made available to the public prior to the Board meetings.
Adjourn

Chairman Covington thanked the members and the audience for their attendance and participation. The meeting adjourned at 11:46am.

Minutes April 7, 2006

in Meeting Minutes on 5/18/2006

Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District Board Meeting

Friday, April 7, 2006
10:00 a.m.

CAPCOG Board Room
2520 S IH-35
Austin, Texas

Call to Order

Notice was duly posted and a meeting of the Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District was held on Friday, April 7, 2006. Chairman Covington called the meeting to order at approximately 10:10 a.m.

Participants:
- Sid Covington, Chairman
- Tullos Wells, Vice-Chairman
- Gonzalo Barrientos
- Lisa Birkman
- Mary Briseño
- Mariano Camarillo
- Gerald Daugherty
- Betty Dunkerley
- Patty Eason
- Fred Harless
- Dave Marsh
- Al Notzon
- Richard Perez
- Carroll Schubert
- John Thomaides
Other participants included Ross Milloy, Bill Bingham, Clif Davis, Tom Shelton and Alison Schulze.
Chairman and Member Comments

Chairman Covington welcomed new Board member Mary Briseño, representing VIA Metropolitan Transit Board of Trustees. Mr. Covington mentioned that Ms. Briseño attended the Rail District’s New Member workshop on March 3rd, which also included new members Betty Dunkerley, Patty Eason, Richard Perez, and John Thomaides as well as Chairman Covington, Board member Dave Marsh, Rail District staff and consultants. Mr. Covington noted the workshop was a beneficial and informative way to bring new members up to speed on both the Rail District and the commuter rail project.

Chairman Covington reported that Mario Medina, former director of TxDOT’s Multimodal Section, was named District Engineer for TxDOT’s Laredo District. He commended Mr. Medina for his contribution and assistance to the Rail District, and reported that Peggy Thurin will serve as the interim Director of the Multimodal Section until a permanent replacement is named. Wilda Won, Railway Planning Supervisor in TxDOT’s Multimodal Section introduced Mark Werner, a new rail engineer in the Multimodal Section.
Report on Status of Appointments to the Board and Administration of Oath of Office to Newly Appointed Board Members

Bill Bingham reported that new Board Member Mary Briseño had taken and signed the Oath of Office. (Oath, statement, and VIA resolution are attached.)
Consider Approval of February 3 Board Meeting Minutes

Upon a motion by Richard Perez and second by Tullos Wells, the members unanimously approved the February 3, 2006 meeting minutes.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Appointment of Executive Committee

In accordance with the District’s bylaws, Chairman Covington recommended the Executive Committee include Chairman Covington, Vice-Chair Tullos Wells, Mariano Camarillo, Betty Dunkerley, Al Notzon and Richard Perez. Mr. Covington directed the Board’s attention to the staff memo in the agenda packet that described the Executive Committee’s powers and duties. Fred Harless moved to approve the Chairman’s recommendation and Patty Eason seconded the motion, which was approved unanimously. Chairman Covington also noted that he had appointed Mary Briseño to the Finance Committee.
Committee Reports
1. Program Management Oversight (PMO) Committee Meeting February 1, 2006
  
  Mariano Camarillo, Chair of the Program Management Oversight Committee, reported that he had given a verbal report of the February 1st PMO actions and recommendations to the Board at the February 3rd Board meeting. The agenda packet includes a written summary of the PMO meeting for the Board’s information.
2. PMO Committee Meeting March 23, 2006
  
  Mariano Camarillo asked Clif Davis, Project Director for the Planning & Preliminary Engineering Team, to report on the P&PE items presented at the March 23rd PMO Committee meeting. Mr. Davis stated that the P&PE Team has completed the conceptual engineering drawings and the Station Design Report, and nearly completed the 15 economic impact analyses on the preliminary station locations. The Team is working to complete the New Starts application by June 30, with efforts focused on two key activities.
  
  The first key task is ridership modeling. Mr. Davis reported that AECOM is wrapping up the Phase 2 model and has reached agreement with TxDOT on the methodology. The next steps for the Phase 2 model are meetings with the two MPOs and FTA approval of the methodology. Phase 2 model results will be complete by June and submitted with the New Starts application. Mr. Davis also gave a progress report on the Phase 3 ridership modeling, which is based on higher-density land use—referred to as transit-oriented development (TOD)—around rail stations. AECOM is working with Capital Market Research to translate the data from the 15 station economic impact analyses into ridership data. Upon completion, the District will seek approval from the Austin and San Antonio MPOs on the TOD-based model. The P&PE team will report on the model results in late May or early June.
  
  The second key task is the financial plan. Mr. Davis reported that Public Financial Management (PFM) is focusing on local funding and AECOM is focusing on federal funding. PFM presented an interim report to the PMO Committee on local financing strategies. PFM is identifying annual funding requirements for the project, developing funding options based on varying degrees of federal and state participation, and developing methods to allocate the local share of the project cost. Local costs could be allocated based on assigned percentages or projected boardings or population or some other method approved by the District. PFM will present its study results in May and, at that time, the P&PE Team will ask the Board to make a policy decision on the preferred method to allocate local costs and a local funding strategy. AECOM is focused on federal funding and will present their study results in June. The ridership reports and the financial plans are key elements of the New Starts application, which is scheduled for completion by June 30.
  
  Mr. Davis also reported on the Seaholm Station Location Study. Carter-Burgess met with Rail District, City of Austin, and Capital Metro staff to present alternative station layouts, and the final report should be complete in May.
  
  Mr. Camarillo asked Ross Milloy to report on the potential funding strategy he outlined for the PMO Committee on March 23. Mr. Milloy reported that the New Starts process might not be the best avenue for the Rail District, and he is exploring alternative methods to access federal funding including the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). Given the fierce competition for New Starts funding, working with FRA could potentially advance the project more quickly and could help facilitate both Union Pacific’s relocation and upgrading the rail right-of-way to accommodate both freight and passenger service during UP’s transition. Mr. Milloy will continue to investigate the feasibility of working through FRA and report back to the Board.
3. Rules and Procedures Committee Meeting February 27, 2006
  
  Al Notzon, Chair of the Rules and Procedures Committee, reported that the Committee held the District’s first teleconference meeting, which allowed Committee members to attend in either Austin or San Antonio. The Committee reviewed, discussed and revised the District’s procurement policy, and unanimously approved the policy as amended. The Committee recommended that the Board approve the revised procurement policy. Mr. Notzon asked Bill Bingham, legal counsel for the Rail District, to present the policy recommended by the Committee (see agenda item 7).
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Revised Procurement Policy

Bill Bingham presented the revised procurement policy, noting that the new policy is more comprehensive and is modeled on TxDOT’s policy and the policies of regional mobility authorities. Mr. Bingham explained that the policy includes many of the general principles and language from the current policy, but the revised policy includes provisions for noncompetitive procurement in 12 limited situations, a process for receiving unsolicited proposals, and a competitive procurement process for exclusive development agreements.

Al Notzon moved for adoption of the procurement policy as recommended by the Rules and Procedures Committee. Chairman Covington noted that, because the motion was based on the recommendation of a standing committee, no second was required. The Board unanimously adopted the procurement policy. Mr. Notzon thanked Mr. Bingham for his work on drafting the new policy.
Status Report on Four Recommended Alternatives to Test for Federally Funded New Starts Project

Tom Shelton, Project Manager for the Planning & Preliminary Engineering Team, gave a progress report on the four alternatives under consideration for the federal New Starts application. The P&PE Team will evaluate and compare the four alternatives based on FTA’s established criteria, recommend one alternative as the federally funded New Starts project, and present the results to the Board in June 2006. The four alternatives approved by the PMO Committee on March 23rd:
- Austin CBD to San Antonio CBD
- Round Rock to San Marcos
- San Marcos to San Antonio CBD
- Georgetown to KellyUSA
Chairman Covington noted that the PMO Committee thoroughly discussed the alternatives and, even though the District may decide not to submit a New Starts application, the evaluation will yield valuable information. The status report was presented as an information item and no action was required.
Presentation on Final Draft Station Design Report

Tom Shelton presented the final draft of the Station Design Report, emphasizing that the proposed station locations are preliminary locations for the purpose of the Alternatives Analysis and are subject to refinement in subsequent design phases of the project. Chairman Covington reiterated that the station locations are moving targets and that the 15 locations shown in the report are preliminary and subject to change. Tullos Wells commended the report and recommended that additional copies of the report be made available. Alison Schulze, Rail District staff, suggested the Station Design Report be made available on CD, upon request. Chairman Covington concurred, citing cost effectiveness.
Financial Report

Ross Milloy provided two financial reports for the Board’s information:
- 2006 First Quarter Statement of Billable Expenses
- Reconciliation Detail: Checking Account, Period Ending 3/31/06
Legislative Update

Bill Bingham reported that currently there is no rail business anticipated to come before the State Legislature in the April special session. Chairman Covington reported that the State Senate Committee on Transportation and Homeland Security will meet on April 18 to discuss the rail relocation fund and TxDOT funding of rail improvements.
Other Business

Ross Milloy reported that Cintra-Zachry presented an unsolicited proposal to TxDOT to construct new freight rail lines in the Trans Texas Corridor east of I-35, but details have not been forthcoming beyond the initial press release by TxDOT. A brief discussion ensued on the proposed 600-mile rail corridor that would stretch from Laredo to the Oklahoma border.

John Thomaides reported that City of San Marcos representatives traveled to Washington DC to meet with the Texas congressional delegation to discuss rail improvement issues. Councilman Thomaides reported that the response was very positive and supportive of the Rail District’s efforts.

Ross Milloy reported on the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce trip to DC, and concurred with Mr. Thomaides’ assessment of the positive attitude of the congressional delegation. Mr. Milloy reported that in his meeting with Senator Hutchinson, she specifically mentioned the Austin-San Antonio commuter rail project and said she was happy she was able to help secure funding for the Rail District.
Public Comment

There were no comments from the public.
Adjourn

Chairman Covington thanked the members and the audience for their attendance and participation. Upon a motion by Fred Harless and a second by Al Notzon, the meeting adjourned at 11:15 a.m.

Minutes February 3, 2006

in Meeting Minutes on 4/18/2006

Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District Board Meeting

Friday, February 3, 2006
10:00 a.m.

AACOG Conference Room
8700 Tesoro
San Antonio, Texas

Call to Order

Notice was duly posted and a meeting of the Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District was held on Friday, February 3, 2006. Chairman Covington called the meeting to order at approximately 10:07 a.m.

Participants:
- Sid Covington, Chairman
- Tommy Adkisson
- Lisa Birkman
- Mariano Camarillo
- Patty Eason
- Fred Harless
- Dave Marsh
- Al Notzon
- Carroll Schubert
- John Thomaides
- Jeff Wentworth
Gonzalo Barrientos, Gerald Daugherty, Betty Dunkerley, Richard Perez, Tim Tuggey, and Tullos Wells were unable to attend. Other participants included Ross Milloy, Bill Bingham, Clif Davis, Tom Shelton and Alison Schulze.
Chairman and Member Comments

Chairman Covington thanked the Board and the audience for attending, noting that this meeting was the third anniversary of the Rail District—the first Board meeting was held in February 2003. He welcomed new Board members Patty Eason, Councilmember from the City of Georgetown, and John Thomaides, Councilmember from the City of San Marcos.

Mr. Covington distributed a list of proposed Committee assignments and noted that Committee assignments would stand unless he heard otherwise from individual Board members. Committees are appointed by the Board Chair except for the Executive Committee. Mr. Covington recommended the Executive Committee be comprised of Board Chair Covington and Board Vice- Chair Wells as well as Mariano Camarillo and Betty Dunkerley representing the north end of the corridor, and Al Notzon and Richard Perez representing the south end of the corridor. The proposed Executive Committee will be presented for Board approval at the next Board meeting.
Consider Approval of December 2nd Board Meeting Minutes

Upon a motion by Fred Harless and second by Tommy Adkisson, the members unanimously approved the December 2, 2005 meeting minutes.
Report on Status of Appointments to the Board and Administration of Oath of Office to Newly Appointed Board Members

Bill Bingham reported that all new Board Members had taken and signed the Oath of Office.
Report on Status of Consultant Contracts and Approval by Board

Sid Covington stated he would take agenda items out of order, and asked Bill Bingham to report on consultant contracts (agenda item 10) to set the stage for Board action in items 5 and 6. Mr. Bingham reported that the contract with PBS&J for Program Management has been suspended. He also reported that the contract amendments to Carter-Burgess’ Planning and Preliminary Engineering (P&PE) contract have been executed and include: assignment of AECOM from the Program Management Team to the P&PE Team, ridership analyses and forecasts based on transit- oriented development (TOD) principles, financial planning and analysis related to local government participation, station location analysis at the Seaholm site in Austin; and additional project management and technical services.

Mr. Bingham also reported on outstanding contract issues—website and printing services, document management services—and the need for the services to be continued but separated from the Program Management contract. Another outstanding contract issue is legal services for negotiation of TIF agreements and TOD ordinances with local governments. It is not yet decided whether the legal services will be funded with federal or local resources. Mr. Bingham reported the Rail District has about $3.7 million in federal funds remaining.
Committee Reports
1. PMO Committee Meeting January 4, 2006
  
  Mariano Camarillo, Program Management Oversight Committee Chair, reported that on January 4 the Committee approved a recommendation for Board consideration that the target date for the New Starts submittal be extended from March 31 to June 30, 2006. Mr. Camarillo asked Clif Davis, Project Director for the P&PE Team, to describe the reasons for the extension. Mr. Davis briefly explained that the new June 30 submittal date would allow the District to include results from the Phase 2 and TOD-based modeling efforts currently underway, comply with new FTA regulations on submittal of ridership methodology, and also include data from the financial analysis on local participation. Mr. Davis distributed a revised project schedule.
  
  Senator Jeff Wentworth moved that the target date for submission of an FTA New Starts application be extended to June 30, 2006, as noted under agenda item 6. Mariano Camarillo seconded the motion, which was approved unanimously by the Board.
  
  Senator Jeff Wentworth then moved that the end date for the P&PE contract also be extended from March 31 to June 30, 2006, as noted under agenda item 6. Al Notzon seconded the motion, which was approved unanimously.
2. PMO Committee Meeting February 1, 2006
  
  Mariano Camarillo reported that at the Committee meeting on February 1, Carter-Burgess presented a proposal to analyze the east-side rail corridor in San Antonio. Tom Shelton, Project Manager of the P&PE Team, summarized the proposal for the Board and stated that the 9-month study would evaluate the east-side rail corridor from New Braunfels to south San Antonio and cost about $500,000. The new corridor would be evaluated at the same level of detail as the west-side corridor. The eastern alignment would use the old Missouri-Kansas-Texas rail line, which diverges from the Union Pacific track south of New Braunfels, and would serve Ft. Sam Houston, Sunset Station, the downtown area east of IH 37, and end at Brooks Air Force Base.
  
  There was a lengthy discussion on the pros and cons of the east-side corridor versus the west-side corridor, the timing of the study, and funding for the study. Senator Wentworth stated the rail line needs to serve the San Antonio airport and Kelly USA, there’s no job growth in the Sunset Station area, and it would be a mistake to do the east-side corridor. Commissioner Adkisson stated the federal government is investing in Ft. Sam Houston, two major hospitals will be at Ft. Sam Houston, and the Toyota plant is on the east side. Carroll Schubert stated the east side should be studied, and it would be nice to serve Ft. Sam Houston, although the area south of Ft. Sam is doubtful; but serving the airport and KellyUSA is very important.
  
  Mr. Camarillo reported that the PMO Committee approved a recommendation on February 1, as follows: That the Rail District conduct an analysis of the east-side alignment on the following conditions: (1) that the analysis be conducted by Carter-Burgess as an extension of their existing planning and preliminary engineering contract pursuant to the proposal dated January 29, 2006; (2) that the analysis will not delay the filing of the New Starts application should the Board decide to file such an application; and (3) funding of the analysis and a date for commencement of the analysis shall be determined by the Board at a future date based on a recommendation of the Executive Director. Tommy Adkisson moved that the Board approve the PMO Committee’s recommendation, as noted under agenda item 6. Al Notzon seconded the motion, which was approved unanimously by the Board.
  
  Mariano Camarillo reported that on February 1, the PMO Committee also discussed the District’s document management system, and asked Alison Schulze to present the issues. Ms. Schulze stated that the purpose of the document control system is to establish and maintain a centralized, permanent archive of all pertinent information captured during phases of the project. The internet-based system—which is accessible to Board members, staff and consultants—handles program documents, contracts, Board agenda packets, and correspondence, and also serves as a library. On February 1, the PMO Committee directed staff to work with ATSER to develop options for continuing the document management system. As noted under agenda item 8, no Board action is required at this time.
  
  Mr. Camarillo reported that on February 1, the PMO Committee also discussed the vacant position on the Board. The Committee concluded that the Board should wait until all eligible members have joined before taking action on the vacant slot and no Board action is needed at this time.
  
  Mr. Camarillo reported that the final item discussed by the PMO Committee on February 1 was the District’s legislative consultants in Washington DC, and asked Ross Milloy to present the issues. Mr. Milloy reported the Committee recommended that staff issue a Request for Qualifications seeking one or more legislative consultants. He asked that the Board authorize staff to issue the RFQ, and noted that the consultants will be funded with local funds. John Thomaides reported that the City of San Marcos passed a resolution to make commuter rail one of the main issues the City will take to the Texas congressional delegation in March, and asked other cities to pass similar resolutions. Fred Harless moved that the Board authorize Ross Milloy to issue an RFQ for legislative consultants, as noted under agenda item 9. John Thomaides seconded the motion, which was approved unanimously.
Report on Economic Impact Analyses of Potential Station Locations

Tom Shelton, Project Manager of the P&PE Team, presented the Draft Executive Summary of the Economic Impact Analyses of the 15 preliminary station locations. He reported that the total revenue potential from property tax increment would be $170 million, but noted that the increment varies widely among the 15 stations. Ross Milloy asked why the Kelly station shows almost no economic development potential. Mr. Shelton responded that the KellyUSA station is located within the Union Pacific right-of-way in an area that lacks visibility and has little available land for redevelopment, and that moving the station could substantially improve its potential for value enhancement. In the next phase of planning and preliminary engineering, the District will have an opportunity to adjust station locations as necessary to increase development potential.

The Board discussed the District’s authority to create transportation infrastructure zones (TIZs), which would allow the District to capture 30% of the increase in tax revenue that results from development around the stations. Chairman Covington suggested that the District ask the legislature to remove the 30% limit and negotiate the cap on a case-by-case basis with each local government. Ross Milloy recommended that Bill Bingham investigate removing the cap.

Alison Schulze noted that the P&PE Team is ready to finalize the 15 EIAs as well as the Executive Summary and requested Board comments, if any, by February 8, 2006.
Financial Report

Ross Milloy provided two financial reports for the Board’s information:
- 2005 Fourth Quarter Statement of Billable Expenses
- Reconciliation Detail: Checking Account, Period Ending 1/20/06
Legislative Update

There were no legislative items presented. Lisa Birkman asked which committee in the State legislature would consider the District’s proposal to raise the 30% cap on increased tax revenue in transportation infrastructure zones (TIZs). Graham Keever, legislative aide to Senator Gonzalo Barrientos, stated it would go through the State Affairs Committee. Commissioner Birkman stated she wants to inform Representative Krusee.
Other Business

There was no other business brought before the Board.
Public Comment

Wilda Won, TxDOT, clarified that the non-federal match for the $2 million FY06 federal appropriation would be $500,000, not $400,000 as stated in agenda item 10. She reported that TxDOT is revising its rules on the use of toll credits as a match—the final rules will be issued in June or July. Ms. Won also stated that TxDOT needs to know if the District plans to become an FTA grantee. Chairman Covington replied that the District would like to avoid becoming a grantee at this time but would consider it in the future.
Adjourn

Chairman Covington thanked the members and the audience for their attendance and participation. There being no further items, the meeting adjourned at 11:25 a.m.

Minutes December 2, 2005

in Meeting Minutes on 3/8/2006

Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District Board Meeting
Friday December 2, 2005
10:00 A.M.

Activity Center
501 E. Hopkins
San Marcos, Texas 78666

Call to Order

Notice was duly posted and a meeting of the Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District Board was held on December 2, 2005. Chairman Covington called the meeting to order at approximately 10:08 A.M.

Participants:
- Sid Covington, Chairman
- J. Tullos Wells, Vice Chairman
- Tommy Adkisson
- Gonzalo Barrientos
- Lisa Birkman
- Mariano Camarillo
- Gerald Daugherty
- Fred Harless
- Dave Marsh
- Al Notzon
- Richard Perez
- Carroll Schubert
Betty Dunkerly and Tim Tuggey were unable to attend. Additionally, Joe Morris attended in Jeff Wentworth’s absence. Other participants included Ross Milloy, Bill Bingham and Alison Schulze.
Chairman and Member Comments

Chairman Covington thanked the members and the audience for attending.

Chairman Covington welcomed Ms. Lisa Birkman, Williamson County Commissioner, to the Board as the representative for Williamson County, which recently joined the Board. He also acknowledged Patty Eason, Councilmember from the City of Georgetown, which passed a resolution on November 22 to join the Rail District, and noted that on December 13, she will be officially named as a Board member. He mentioned that the City of San Marcos has on their December 7, 2005 agenda a resolution to join the Rail District.

Chairman Covington also commented that Proposition 1, establishing the Rail Relocation Fund, passed and will have a positive impact on the District’s efforts.
Consider Approval of November 4 Board Meeting Minutes

Upon a motion by Richard Perez and second by Gerald Daugherty, the members unanimously approved the November 4, 2005 meeting minutes.
Report on Status of Appointments to the Board and Administration of Oath of Office to Any Newly Appointed Board Members

Bill Bingham reported to the Board that Lisa Birkman has signed the Oath of Office and is now an official Member of the Board (oath and statement attached). He also reported that there is one vacancy on the Board, an elected official that the Board may appoint to represent the municipalities that are not otherwise represented on the Board.

Mr. Bingham pointed out that if appointed, the individual must be an elected member of one of the aforementioned municipalities. A discussion ensued clarifying the legal criteria for appointing the individual to the Board. The Board directed Ross Milloy to compile a list of cities to consider for the vacant position.

Lisa Birkman Oath
Lisa Birkman Statement
Report on Current Status of Alternatives Analysis and New Starts Application and Upcoming Key Decision Points

Tom Shelton and Clif Davis of Carter-Burgess reported to the Board on the status of the Alternatives Analysis and New Starts Application, recapping the progress that has been made so far and outlining the entire process for the benefit of the new Board members. Ross Milloy reported that the Rail District received $2 million from the Federal government in the Transportation Appropriations Bill; also, discussions are underway with TxDOT on the use of transportation credits for the non-federal match..

Mr. Shelton outlined the additional steps needed to complete the project and noted that there is much competition for Federal funding from other rail projects around the country, and emphasized that the New Starts application must be as competitive as possible when it is submitted. He emphasized the importance of ridership modeling in the New Starts process, and described modeling tasks that have been completed and tasks that are in progress.

A brief discussion ensued regarding whether or not a ridership model can be created for a rail line on the east side of San Antonio. The Board directed staff to take the issue to the Project Management Oversight Committee for consideration.
Interim Report on Economic Impact Analyses of Potential Station Locations

Charles Heimsath of Capitol Market Research reported to the Board on the status economic development feasibility analyses of the 15 potential station locations. He reported that 12 economic impact analyses have been completed and that the remaining 3 are expected to be completed within a month.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Interlocal Agreement for Seaholm Station Location Study

Alison Schulze briefly reported to the Board that the Rail District, City of Austin and Capital Metro are joining forces to study location alternatives for the proposed rail station at the Seaholm site in downtown Austin. She recommended the Board authorize the Executive Director to execute an interlocal agreement with the City of Austin and Capital Metro to conduct the Seaholm station location study for a total cost of $76,736.47, with the Rail District’s share not to exceed $25,580.

The members, upon a motion by Richard Perez and second by Fred Harless, unanimously approved and authorized the Executive Director to execute an interlocal agreement with the City of Austin and Capital Metro to conduct the Seaholm station location study and amend the Carter-Burgess contract to perform these additional services.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on 2006 Goals

Mr. Milloy reported on the Rail District’s 2006 Goals, which include trying to find alternative funding strategies, such as public/private financing. He also reported that pursuing higher speed rail Federal funding is another source worth pursuing, and that the ridership models must be completed to decide to continue the project.

Other goals include completing the New Starts application, establishing interlocal agreements on tax increment financing for developing the total financing package, and securing another $1 million in Federal funding for Planning and Preliminary Engineering.

Lisa Birkman noted that there is a need for outreach to governments and the general public in 2006. Al Notzon stated that an additional goal for 2006 should be to initiate an analysis of the rail corridor on the east side of the City of San Antonio. Upon a motion by Al Notzon and second by Tullos Wells, it was unanimously resolved to adopt the 2006 goals with the addition of the 2 goals suggested by members Birkman and Notzon.
Financial Report

Mr. Milloy provided the Board with the following financial reports for the Board’s review and consideration:
- 2005-06 Fiscal Year Budget – Locally Funded Expenses
- 2005 3rd Quarter Statement of Billable Expenses
- Reconciliation Detail: Checking Account, Period Ending 11/28/2005.
Legislative Update

Bill Bingham reported that besides the previously mentioned $2 million appropriation, there were no other legislative items to report.
Other Business

There were no other items of business brought before the Board.
Public Comment

There were no comments from the public.
Adjourn

Chairman Covington thanked the Members and the audience for their attendance and participation. There being no further items of business brought before the Board, Chairman Covington adjourned the meeting at 11:50 a.m.

Minutes November 4, 2005

in Meeting Minutes on

Board Meeting
Friday, November 4, 2005
10:00 a.m.

AACOG Conference Room
8700 Tesoro
San Antonio, Texas 78217

Call to Order:

Notice was duly posted and a meeting of the Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District Board was held on November 4, 2005. Chairman Covington called the meeting to order at approximately 10:25 a.m.

Participants:
- Sid Covington, Chairman
- Tommy Adkisson>
- Gerald Daugherty
- Betty Dunkerley
- Fred Harless
- Dave Marsh
- Al Notzon
- Richard Perez
- Carroll Schubert
- J. Tullos Wells
Senator Gonzalo Barrientos, Sam Barshop, Mariano Camarillo and Tim Tuggey were unable to attend. Additionally, Joe Morris attended in Senator Jeff Wentworth’s absence. Other participants included Bill Bingham, Ross Milloy and Alison Schulze.
Chairman and Member Comments:

Chairman Covington thanked the Members and the audience for attending.

Chairman Covington also welcomed Mr. Richard Perez, San Antonio City Council Member, to the Board.
Consider Approval of September 9 Board Meeting Minutes:

The Members, upon a motion by Tullos Wells and second by Gerald Daugherty, unanimously approved the September 9, 2005 meeting minutes.
Consider Approval of 2006 Board Meeting Calendar:

The Members, upon a motion by Tullos Wells and second by Betty Dunkerley, unanimously approved the proposed 2006 Board Meeting Calendar and, as requested by Gerald Daugherty, moved the July 7, 2006 meeting to July 14, 2006. The approved calendar follows:
- 01/13/06 – CAPCOG, Austin, Texas (10:00 a.m.);
- 02/03/06 – AACOG, San Antonio, Texas (10:00 a.m.);
- 03/03/06 – Activity Center, San Marcos, Texas (10:00 a.m.);
- 04/07/06 – CAPCOG, Austin, Texas (10:00 a.m.);
- 05/05/06 – AACOG, San Antonio, Texas (10:00 a.m.);
- 06/02/06 – Activity Center, San Marcos, Texas (10:00 a.m.);
- 07/14/06 - CAPCOG, Austin, Texas (10:00 a.m.);
- 08/04/06 – AACOG, San Antonio, Texas (10:00 a.m.);
- 09/08/06 – The Meeting Place, San Marcos, Texas (10:00 a.m.);
- 10/06/06 – CAPCOG, Austin, Texas (10:00 a.m.);
- 11/03/06 – AACOG, San Antonio, Texas (10:00 a.m.); and
- 12/08/06 – The Meeting Place, San Marcos, Texas (10:00 a.m.).
The Members discussed possible Executive Committee meetings for: February, April, June, August, October and December.
Report on Status of Appointments to the Board and Administration of Oath of Office to any Newly Appointed Board Members:

Bill Bingham reported to the Board that Carroll Schubert and Richard Perez have signed Oath(s) of Office and are now official Members of the Board.

Carroll Shubert Oath of Office
Consider Approval of Resolution of Support Endorsing Proposition 1 on November Ballot:

Ross Milloy discussed and urged the Members to consider approving the proposed resolution of support endorsing Proposition 1 on the November ballot. Upon motion by Fred Harless, and second by Richard Perez, the Board unanimously approved the resolution.

Resolution Endorsing Texas Rail Relocation and Improvement
CLOSED SESSION:

Chairman Covington announced a brief recess pursuant to Section 551.071 of the Texas Open Meetings Act in order to consult with legal counsel on consultant contracts in a closed meeting. Covington invited the audience to wait for the Board to reconvene momentarily.

The Board recessed at 10:41 A.M. and reconvened at 11:32 A.M. Attached is the Certified Agenda for the Closed Portion of the Meeting of the Board of the Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District.

Certified Agenda for Closed Meeting
Committee Reports:

A. PMO Committee Meeting October 21, 2005:

In Mariano Camarillo’s absence, Alison Schulze briefly reported to the Board regarding the PMO Committee meeting held Friday, October 21, 2005. Each of the Members was provided with “Meeting Summary” notes regarding said meeting.

A brief discussion ensued.
Contracts:

A. Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Work Authorization for TOD-based Demographic and Ridership Forecasts

Ross Milloy briefly discussed proposed work authorization for TOD-based Demographic and Ridership Forecasts.

Upon motion by Tommy Adkisson, and second by Fred Harless, the Board unanimously approved and authorized the staff to execute a work authorization for the proposed scope of work to conduct an analysis of potential ridership based on updated demographic forecasts and commuter rail service levels.

B. Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Carter-Burgess Contract Amendment to Add Additional Subconsultants and Authorize Executive Director to Approve Revised Scope and Funding

Bill Bingham briefly discussed the Carter-Burgess contract amendment to add an additional subconsultant, Public Financial Management, Inc. and authorize Executive Director to approve revised scope and funding.

Upon motion by Tullos Wells, and second by Richard Perez, the Board unanimously approved and authorized contract amendment to add additional subconsultant and authorize Executive Director to approve revised scope and funding.
Report on Interlocal Agreement for Seaholm Station Location Study:

Chairman Covington reported on the proposed joint planning group for the redevelopment of the Seaholm power plant in Downtown Austin. This will include the proposed central Austin rail station. Each of the Members were provided with a copy of a letter from Lee Walker, Chairman, Board of Directors of Capital Metro, to Chairman Covington regarding Capital Metro’s interest in this important project.

Chairman Covington also noted that he will report back to the Board once the scope of work has been completed. Al Notzon thanked the City of Austin and Capital Metro for partnering with the Rail District on the study.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Annual Budget and 2005 Milestones/2006 Goals:

Mr. Milloy provided the following reports for the Board’s review and consideration:
- “2005-2006 Fiscal Year Budget - - Locally Funded Expenses: October 2005 through September 2006″;
- ASACRD 2005 Achievements and Mileposts;
- ASACRD 2005-6 Goals;
- ASACRD 2005 Annual Report (draft);
- Next Steps: 2006 Goals; and
- Status of Rail District’s Federal Funds.
A brief discussion ensued.

Upon motion by Mr. Harless, and second by Mr. Perez, the Board unanimously approved the proposed 2005-2006 Fiscal Year Budget. The Board requested additional time to study the 2005-6 goals and asked that approval of the goals be delayed until the December meeting.
Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Negotiation of TIF Agreements and Related TOD Ordinances for Local Governments:

Mr. Bingham discussed the Board’s need to consider and take appropriate action regarding negotiation of TIF agreements and related TOD ordinances for local governments. This is a part of the development of local funding alternatives and the Federal New Starts application.

A lengthy discussion ensued.

Upon motion by Mr. Wells, and second by Commissioner Adkisson, the Board unanimously approved authorizing its general counsel, McGinnis, Lochridge and Kilgore, to prepare drafts of tax increment financing and transit oriented development documents and assist local governmental entities in preparing and adopting such agreements and ordinances to support construction and operations for the Rail District, at a cost not to exceed $100,000.
Financial Report:

Mr. Milloy provided the Board with the following financial reports for the Board’s review and consideration:
- 2005 Third Quarter Statement of Billable Expenses; and
- Reconciliation Detail: Checking Account, Period Ending 10/27/2005.
Legislative Report:

There were no legislative items to report.
Other Business:

There were no other items of business brought before the Board.
Public Comment:

There were no comments from the public.
Adjourn:

Chairman Covington thanked the Members and the audience for their attendance and participation.

There being no further items of business brought before the Board, Chairman Covington adjourned the meeting at 12:10 P.M.

The Project

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Category: Meeting Minutes

Call to Order

Chairman and Member Comments

Consider Approval of March 6, 2009 Board Meeting Minutes

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Status of Appointments to Board, and Administration of Oath of Office to Newly Appointed Board Members

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Election of Board Officers

Committee Reports

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Branding the Rail District

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Amendment to Branding Contract

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Resolution to Enter into Agreement with TxDOT for CAMPO FY09 and FY10 STP-MM Funds

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Report on 81st Texas Legislature and Report on Federal Initiatives

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Potential Strategies and Opportunities for Project Development

Financial Report

Concluding Board Member Comments (no action)

Public Comment

Adjourn

Call to Order

Chairman and Member Comments

Consider Approval of December 5, 2008 Board Meeting Minutes

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Status of Appointments to Board, and Administration of Oath of Office to Newly Appointed Board Members

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Election of Board Officers

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Appointment of Executive Committee

Committee Report

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Reimbursement Policy between Austin-San Antonio Corridor Council and Austin-San Antonio Rail District

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Amending FY09 Budget

Presentation on City of San Antonio’s Verano Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone

Financial Report

Legislative Update

Other Business

Public Comment

Adjourn

Call to Order

Chairman and Member Comments

Consider Approval of September 5, 2008 Board Meeting Minutes

Committee Reports

Consider Approval of 2009 Board Meeting Calendar

Consider Report on 2009 Appointments to Board

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Amendment to Jacobs Carter Burgess Master Contract for Engineering Services

Consider Report on Texas Rail Relocation and Improvement Fund and Related Issues

Consider Presentation on Branding Services

Financial Report

Legislative Update

Other Business

Public Comment

Adjourn

Call to Order

Chairman and Member Comments

Consider Approval of June 6, 2008 Board Meeting Minutes

Committee Reports

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on FY09 Budget

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Amendments to Rail District’s Advanced Funding Agreement with Texas Department of Transportation

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Amendments to Jacobs Carter Burgess Master Contract and Work Authorization to Extend Program Management and Technical Services through September 2009

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Resolution of Support for the Texas Rail Relocation and Improvement Fund

Consider and Discuss July Meeting with Union Pacific Railroad

Presentation on Results of Phase 2 San Antonio Region Freight Study

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Selection of Consultant for Branding Services

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Fatal Flaw Analysis of SH 130 Corridor

Financial Report

Legislative Update

Other Business

Public Comment

Adjourn

Call to Order

Chairman and Member Comments

Consider Approval of March 7, 2008 Board Meeting Minutes

Report on Status of Appointments to the Board

Committee Report

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Request for Proposals (RFP) for Branding Services

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on TxDOT Freight Mobility Study, Phase 3

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Jacobs Carter Burgess Proposal to Prepare Texas Emissions Reduction Plan (TERP) Application

Report on Status of Potential Intercity Passenger Rail Opportunities

Financial Report

Legislative Update

Other Business

Public Comment

Adjourn

Call to Order

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Status of Appointments to Board, and
Administration of Oath of Office to Newly Appointed Board Members

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Resolution to Enter into Agreement with
TxDOT for CAMPO FY09 and FY10 STP-MM Funds

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Report on 81st Texas Legislature and Report
on Federal Initiatives

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Potential Strategies and Opportunities for
Project Development

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Status of Appointments to Board, and
Administration of Oath of Office to Newly Appointed Board Members

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Reimbursement Policy between Austin-San
Antonio Corridor Council and Austin-San Antonio Rail District

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Amendment to Jacobs Carter Burgess
Master Contract for Engineering Services

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Request for Proposals (RFP) for Branding
Services

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Jacobs Carter Burgess Proposal to Prepare
Texas Emissions Reduction Plan (TERP) Application

Consider and Take Appropriate Action on Recommended Legislative Amendments to
Expand Definition of Political Subdivisions That May Become Members of the Rail
District and Expand Powers