District 7 - Edwin Bautista
What is your favorite historic place in your district and why?
My favorite historic place in District 7 is the Moore-Hancock Farmstead. This property, located in the Allandale neighborhood, is one of the oldest existing homes in Austin with its origins dating back to 1849. The farmstead is a rare example of early Texas pioneer life and represents Austin's agricultural roots before the city expanded into the bustling urban area we see today. The original farmhouse was built by Judge James W. Moore, then later owned by the Hancock family, and has remained in continuous use for over a century.
What makes the Moore-Hancock Farmstead so special is not only its age but also its role in shaping the local community. The property showcases vernacular architecture of the period and has served as a tangible link to Austin’s early settlement history. Its preservation efforts reflect the community’s desire to maintain a connection to the past, even as the area around it has rapidly urbanized.
This historic site has been preserved thanks to community efforts and recognition of its cultural importance. It’s a reminder of the city’s roots and a celebration of the community's dedication to historic preservation, which I believe is crucial as Austin continues to grow and evolve.
The City of Austin will soon adopt a new Equity-Based Historic Preservation Plan to replace Austin’s 1981 historic preservation plan with an inclusive, community-oriented process and outcome. Its proposed policies, programs, and tools will help the City Council, Historic Landmark Commission, City departments, and partners address challenges and support thriving communities. The plan is set to be adopted by Council later this year, and its future success will rely on buy-in from Council to execute its recommendations.
If elected, would you support the plan’s recommended policy changes and budget allocations to ensure that the future of preservation in Austin is proactive, collaborative, and accessible to all? Please explain.
YES
I fully support the adoption of Austin's Equity-Based Historic Preservation Plan. The forward-thinking initiative is crucial to ensuring that historic preservation in our city is not just about maintaining physical structures but is rooted in inclusivity, accessibility and proactive community engagement. The innovative plan centers equity by recognizing and uplifting the diverse narratives that shape Austin's history and ensures the city honors historic sites significant to all communities, particularly those that have been historically marginalized in preservation efforts.
As a certified urban planner, I recognize the multifaceted benefits of this approach. A well-funded and collaborative preservation strategy not only protects cultural assets but also fosters community pride, enhances cultural tourism and integrates with broader city goals like housing affordability, displacement prevention and sustainable development. I believe this is a key step toward building a more equitable Austin.
If elected, I'm committed to championing the plan's recommended policy changes and budget allocations as well as collaborating closely with the Historic Landmark Commission, City departments and stakeholders. I believe the city's Equity-Based Historic Preservation Plan represents an opportunity to make preservation a tool for inclusive city planning and I'm eager to support its implementation for the benefit of all Austinites.
Research shows that older, smaller homes are more naturally affordable for renters and owners than new construction. Last year, Preservation Austin, Austin Infill Coalition, and AIA Austin partnered on a new Preservation Bonus that was adopted as a part of HOME Phase 1. The bonus exchanges increased development entitlements for preserving single-family homes built before 1961. Research conducted by Cedar shows that expanding entitlements for Preservation Bonus projects to include increased impervious cover and an additional developable unit can generate 10x as many housing units as the current bonus allows (see report HERE).
If elected, would you support increasing entitlements for Preservation Bonus projects to maximize the effectiveness of the bonus, preserve existing housing, and support sustainability and affordability goals? Why or why not?
YES
I support increasing entitlements for Preservation Bonus projects to maximize the effectiveness of the bonus, preserve existing housing and further Austin's sustainability and affordability goals.
Research shows that older and smaller homes play a key role in providing naturally affordable housing options, both for renters and owners. I believe the Preservation Bonus adopted as part of HOME Phase 1 is a step in the right direction, but it has more potential to be unlocked. Expanding entitlements, such as increased impervious cover and allowing an additional developable unit, could significantly amplify the number of housing units produced.
The city can achieve multiple goals by supporting this expansion such as: preserving the unique character of Austin’s neighborhoods, protecting naturally affordable housing and creating more sustainable and inclusive development patterns. This approach aligns with my urban planning background which is focused on holistic and data-driven strategies that respect community heritage while meeting modern housing needs.
I believe that with thoughtful implementation, increased entitlements for Preservation Bonus projects can be a powerful tool in addressing the city's housing affordability crisis while supporting a balanced growth that benefits all Austinites.
Historic resource surveys inventory historic neighborhoods and make recommendations for buildings and districts that are eligible for historic designation. Accurate and up-to-date surveys enable City staff, elected officials, and citizens alike to make decisions about which properties and neighborhoods ought to be protected. For example, in 2020 the Rogers-Washington-Holy Cross neighborhood successfully became Austin's first local historic district dedicated exclusively to Black heritage. This effort relied on data gathered in the 2016 East Austin Historic Resource Survey to define the district's boundaries and identify contributing structures. Without the 2016 survey, this historic district may not have been possible.
If elected, will you support continued funding for surveys and the City’s preservation office? Will you honor the findings of these surveys by supporting historic zoning for individual landmarks and districts? Please explain your answer.
YES
I would strongly support continued funding for historic resource surveys and the City’s preservation office. Surveys are foundational for identifying and documenting the cultural and architectural heritage of our neighborhoods but also enable informed decision-making for both city leaders and Austinites. The success of the Rogers-Washington-Holy Cross neighborhood becoming Austin’s first local historic district dedicated exclusively to Black heritage is a prime example of how crucial these surveys are. Without the data gathered from the 2016 East Austin Historic Resource Survey, establishing these boundaries and identifying contributing structures would have been far more challenging, if not impossible.
I believe it’s essential for the city to honor the findings of these surveys by supporting historic zoning for individual landmarks and districts. I believe doing so not only protects historically significant neighborhoods but also preserves the diversity and heritage that make Austin unique. Preserving these areas can support sustainable growth, protect naturally occurring affordable housing and maintain cultural diversity. These efforts align with my vision for an Austin that values its past while planning for a more inclusive and equitable future.
We know based on our research that between 2010 and the end of 2021, finalized residential demolitions per year rose from 271 to 622, an increase of 130%. These older buildings are often constructed with more sustainable materials than new buildings and provide more affordable housing than new construction. Rehabilitation rather than demolition of existing structures also reduces waste and is more sustainable. In 2020, construction and demolition debris accounted for approximately 25% of all waste produced in Travis County's three municipal solid waste landfills. Cities such as San Antonio and Portland have adopted deconstruction ordinances to slow demolitions and divert landfill waste.
If elected, would you support policy solutions that encourage sustainable building practices via preservation? How do you think our community can embrace this as part of our efforts to create a more sustainable and equitable Austin?
YES
I would support policy solutions that promote sustainable building practices through preservation. The rise in residential demolitions is extremely troubling to me as it leads to increased waste and loss of naturally affordable housing. Older buildings often use more sustainable materials and provide a vital stock of housing that is more affordable than new construction.
I believe Austin can follow in the footsteps of cities like San Antonio and Portland by adopting a deconstruction ordinance and requiring older buildings to be deconstructed rather than demolished. This would salvage valuable materials, reduce landfill waste and preserve the city's character. Additionally, Austin could incentivize rehabilitation through tax breaks, grants and low-interest loans for those who choose to restore rather than demolish structures. I believe expanding the Preservation Bonus to include adaptive reuse provisions would further encourage developers to invest in preservation.
I think strengthening the demolition permit process and requiring an environmental impact assessment could also help slow the loss of historic structures. Lastly, creating material reuse centers (like Austin Creative Reuse) and community education programs would promote a circular economy and sustainable building practices. I believe the city can make preservation central to building a more sustainable and equitable Austin by taking these important steps.
Many Texas cities establish historic districts to protect their heritage by preventing demolitions and ensuring new construction is compatible with surrounding historic buildings. Dallas has 21 districts, Houston has 19, and San Antonio has 27, while Austin has only 8. The creation of new historic districts was made more difficult following the adoption of HB1474 by the Texas State Legislature in 2021, which requires a supermajority of Council to vote in favor of a local historic district if even one owner in the district objects.
Do you support the establishment of more Local Historic Districts to protect Austin’s historic neighborhoods? Why or why not?
YES
I fully support establishing more Local Historic Districts to protect Austin’s historic neighborhoods. I believe historic districts serve as vital tools for preserving the architectural character, cultural heritage and identity of a city. It's unfortunate that the City of Austin currently falls behind other Texas cities in regard to the number of LHDs—a stark disparity considering its rich historical and cultural significance.
Despite challenges posed by HB1474, it's essential to push forward with these efforts because the benefits of historic districts extend beyond mere preservation. They help stabilize property values, encourage tourism and maintain the unique charm of neighborhoods that newer and incompatible developments often disrupt. These districts also promote sustainability by encouraging the reuse and adaptation of existing structures, which helps reduce construction waste and supports naturally occurring affordable housing—a critical need in Austin's rapidly growing and increasingly expensive real estate market.
I believe a key part of expanding Local Historic Districts lies in innovative community engagement. Educating residents about the benefits of historic designation, such as access to grants and tax incentives for restoration projects, can build support and mitigate resistance. Additionally, the city can help streamline the process for historic district designation and provide technical and financial assistance to neighborhoods seeking this status.
In 2023 City Council officially proclaimed October as Legacy Business Month in honor of Preservation Austin’s inaugural Legacy Business Month passport program, which encourages Austinites to support participating businesses and broadly promotes their heritage. The city’s explosive growth has made protections and financial support for legacy businesses more important than ever. City governments in San Francisco and San Antonio have adopted ground-breaking legacy business programs to protect and support their cities’ legacy businesses through designation, education, and directly supporting businesses with financial resources.
If elected, would you support creating a similar program for the City of Austin? Why or why not?
YES
I fully support creating an legacy business program for Austin to protect the city’s cultural and historical fabric amid rapid growth. Drawing on successful models from other US cities, a program proposal could combine financial support, regulatory flexibility and community engagement to provide a comprehensive solution tailored to Austin’s needs.
First, the city could establish an official Legacy Business Registry for businesses operating for 20-30 years with significant cultural, historical or social value. This designation could provide recognition and make them eligible for financial support. A grant program funded through a combination of city funds, Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) revenue and community donations could offer matching grants, low-interest loans or tax abatements to help these businesses cover costs related to building maintenance, rent or modernization efforts.
To address the challenge of rising rents, a Commercial Rent Subsidy Program could offer landlords tax incentives for maintaining long-term, stable leases for legacy businesses. Additionally, a "Right of First Refusal" policy would give businesses the chance to purchase their property or secure long-term leases before redevelopment.
Lastly, I believe technical assistance is also vital. The program could and should include a local business improvement initiative that offers grants for technological upgrades, energy-efficient improvements or accessibility modifications.
Underrepresented Heritage is one of Preservation Austin’s Advocacy Priorities. East Austin continues to experience increased rates of displacement and demolition of historic places significant to its Black and Brown neighborhoods. Recently, we’ve advocated for historic zoning for properties in East Austin such as the Sinnigson House and 1500 E. 12th Street. Often, the designation of these properties is supported by our Historic Preservation Office, the Historic Landmark Commission, and Planning Commission, but fail at City Council due to a lack of supermajority votes needed to designate over an owner’s objections.
If elected, would you support designating properties over an owner’s objections? What is your threshold for determining if a property merits designation? Please explain.
I support designating properties over an owner’s objections, particularly those significant to underrepresented communities in East Austin. My threshold for designation focuses on historical, cultural and architectural value while addressing community and owner concerns.
I believe historical and cultural context is key. Properties that highlight significant narratives—like civil rights history or cultural heritage of Austin's Black and Brown communities—are invaluable. Preserving these sites prevents cultural erasure and keeps diverse stories alive in our city.
I think architectural integrity matters too. Properties with unique styles, rare construction methods, or craftsmanship contributing to Austin's architectural diversity, especially those retaining original features, are worth preserving.
I also believe alignment with city goals is crucial. The city's Equity-Based Historic Preservation Plan will help guide these efforts by helping promote diversity and addressing displacement pressures through public policy. Community support is also vital; engaging with residents, historians and organizations like Preservation Austin ensures the process reflects local values.
Lastly, the city must address economic feasibility by offering incentives like tax abatements and grants to show property owners the benefits of preservation. I believe this balance between private property rights and public interest is essential to safeguard Austin’s cultural legacy for future generations.
As a member of Austin City Council, what is one policy or initiative you would enact to ensure the preservation of our city’s historic and cultural heritage?
If elected, I will work to create a Cultural and Historic Preservation Fund that leverages a combination of incentives, regulations and community engagement to ensure the protection of Austin’s historic and cultural heritage. This prospective fund would support a range of innovative and feasible initiatives detailed below:
Tax abatements and grants - I will work to introduce a city-wide preservation tax abatement program, similar to what cities like San Antonio have implemented, which provides property tax relief for owners who maintain and rehabilitate historic structures. Additionally, the fund could allocate grants for low-income and small property owners in underrepresented communities, particularly in East Austin, to cover restoration costs and prevent displacement.
Inclusion in the Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) revenue - Austin could lawfully allocate a portion of its HOT revenue specifically for historic preservation, as Texas law allows cities to use these funds to promote tourism through cultural heritage. The City Council can not only maintain the city's unique character but also enhance cultural tourism by investing in the preservation of historic neighborhoods and cultural sites.
Adopt a Deconstruction Ordinance - Building on policies in cities like Portland, Austin could require that structures built before a specific year be deconstructed rather than demolished, particularly in historic districts. The Cultural and Historic Preservation Fund would then provide financial incentives for property owners to deconstruct older buildings and salvage materials to reduce landfill waste. This approach supports sustainable building practices while preserving historical elements that can be repurposed in new construction.
Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) program - A TDR program would allow property owners in designated historic districts to sell their development rights to developers in other parts of the city, thereby protecting historic properties while enabling growth elsewhere. This market-driven tool has been effective in other cities for preserving historic buildings and open spaces.
Community engagement and education - The city can use the fund to support community-led efforts in identifying and advocating for historic sites, especially in neighborhoods facing rapid development pressures. This includes working with local nonprofits, historical societies and cultural organizations to provide workshops, resources and technical support for property owners navigating historic zoning processes.
Historic Housing Trust - I will also work to establish a housing trust within the fund to acquire and protect historic properties, particularly those at risk of demolition due to economic pressures. The trust could partner with affordable housing developers to convert these properties into affordable housing units and maintain their historic integrity while addressing Austin’s affordable housing crisis.