January 8th AMLD Board Meeting

Greetings Neighbors!

I hope this newsletter finds you and your families doing well. It seems like the flu and other illnesses have been making their rounds lately, and AMLD has certainly been affected over the past month. Unfortunately, this led to the cancellation of our strategic planning meeting in late January. Below is a friendly recap of our January Board Meeting, highlighting key updates and ongoing projects happening across the district.

Citizen Comment

A representative from Texas Disposal Systems (TDS) shared that all residents will be transitioned to their online payment portal within the month. He outlined TDS’s efforts to minimize confusion during this transition. We hope your experience has been smooth, and if you have any issues, please reach out directly to TDS at 844.873.7734 or email customercare@texasdisposal.com.

A resident addressed safety concerns regarding the four-way stop at Millwright Parkway and Timbercrest Lane, noting frequent failures to stop. He shared the steps he has taken with the City, and the Board appreciated him bringing this important safety issue forward.

Another resident spoke about being overcharged on a City of Austin trash bill. Our District Manager will be connecting with her to explore possible ways the District may assist in resolving the issue.

Urban Forest Grant

The AMNA President shared exciting news that we have been awarded the Urban Forest Grant, which is a major win for our community. AMNA applied for and was awarded a $33,000 Urban Forest Grant, in partnership with AMLD. This funding will bring 60 new trees and 110 saplings to North Park, Millrun Dog Park, the trails along Pecan Creek Parkway, and El Salido Parkway with planting scheduled for Fall 2026. As part of the grant process, AMLD will conduct an irrigation audit to support the long-term health and sustainability of these new plantings.

Finance

The Board reviewed the December cash disbursements. The Budget Committee shared the reforecasted budget for the 2025–2026 fiscal year, outlining updated projections and assumptions to help guide upcoming budget discussions.

Mark Your Calendars

The Board approved the 2026 tentative regular meeting schedule. Meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month at 6:30 PM:

January 8 • February 12 • March 12 • April 9 • May 14 • June 11 • July 9 • August 13 • September 10 • October 8 • November 12 • December 10

We hope you’ll join us, as resident participation is always encouraged!

Elections Update

Elections for the Board of Directors Place 4 and Place 5 are coming up, and the application process is currently open. If you are interested in learning more about serving your community and what the process involves, please visit the website for additional information.

City Medians and Sign/Entrance Beautification Projects

Director Chaney shared a detailed visual presentation highlighting how median beautification and deed restriction enforcement help maintain and increase property values. This presentation was shared to inform upcoming budget discussions and to emphasize the long-term positive impact these projects have on community pride and home values.

Senior Center Renaming Proposal

This item was discussed in executive session. No decisions were made and no votes were taken at this time.

Parks & Landscape Committee

The committee shared updates related to the Urban Forest Tree Grant, including next steps and coordination efforts, as well as important information on Oak Wilt prevention and seasonal best practices. 

Facilities, Operations & Safety Committee

The Committee shared that Director Mazer spent time with the District’s maintenance team and shared insights on potential improvements to increase efficiency. Also, that facility clean outs have begun at the Senior Center, with the maintenance yard to follow.

The El Salido Bridge replacement is nearing completion. If you haven’t seen it yet, then I highly recommend taking a walk along the trail to check out the new bridge.

Spring Guide Preview

The Board reviewed a preview of the upcoming Spring Guide. We continue working to maximize communication while controlling costs. We will use the same printer as the Fall Guide, resulting in significant savings for the District.

TRAPS Conference

I will be attending the TRAPS Conference and asked fellow Directors to share any sessions they would like me to attend on behalf of the District. I look forward to returning with helpful insights to benefit our neighborhood. Due to this conference, I will miss the February 12th meeting, but I look forward to reconnecting with the Board and community at the March meeting.

Aquatics Update

Austin Community College has signed a contract to use the El Salido Pool for swim classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:30–9:30 PM, beginning February 12th for a 12-week session.
Conversations have begun with Westwood Water Polo regarding future use.
A major leak was discovered at the Anderson Mill Pool in January and is currently being addressed.

Security Report

Lieutenant New reported that his team conducted 10 traffic stops in one hour at the intersection of El Salido and Bristle Oak as part of efforts to improve traffic safety. He also shared that the Williamson County Narcotics Unit recently completed a case that removed a significant amount of fentanyl from our area.

Fun Things Around AMLD

Yoga Class

Yoga is back this month! Join us on Tuesdays from 7:00–8:00 p.m. or Saturdays from 9:00–10:00 a.m. Classes are just $10 each.

Tree and Shrub Pruning Workshop

Join AMNA for a Pruning Workshop on Sunday, February 22, led by a Master Gardener who will share practical tips and tricks for pruning shrubs and trees with confidence. Register here.

Spring Break Camp

Spring Break Camp runs March 16–20, Monday through Friday, from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM (earliest drop-off at 7:30 AM, latest pick-up at 6:00 PM). Does your child need somewhere to go over Spring Break? Register soon to save a spot!

Tree Folks

February is your last chance to request a free TreeFolks tree. Delivery is included, and signing up is simple!

Upcoming Meeting

As a reminder, I will not be at the February 12th Board Meeting, but I encourage you to attend. The agenda is linked and includes many important items. As always, Citizen Comment provides an opportunity for residents to share feedback, ideas, or questions directly with the Board.Thank you for staying engaged, and I wish you and your family continued health and wellness this season.

Reminder

As an AMLD Board member, I want to remind everyone that this newsletter is not the official notes from the meeting. These are my personal thoughts on the items that were discussed at the meeting.  Please see the link if you would like to see the official notes from the past board meetings. Meeting Minutes