The Austin City Council will soon decide whether to send a bond proposal to voters later this year. This comes as City Hall works to restore public confidence after Proposition Q’s failure.
Government
Local government decisions shape daily life in Austin—from policing and transit to housing, parks, and public health. We translate, scrutinize, and illuminate these decisions, ensuring residents understand how power works and who it serves. Questions, tips or ideas? community@austincurrent.org
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As ICE activities ramp up, activists demand less APD cooperation
Hundreds turned out Tuesday to protest at City Hall following a recent ICE detention in Southwest Austin
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Critics have long wanted an audit of City Hall. Now Austin’s mayor does too
With a tight budget, Austin Mayor Kirk Watson wants audits, spending limits and new bond guidelines. Critics say the reforms lack independence and restraint.
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Government
‘The system always collects its debt’: Austin nonprofits brace for cuts from City Hall
After voters rejected Prop Q, the City of Austin is shifting millions in social services contracts.
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Austin homicides fell sharply in five years — experts don’t think it is a coincidence
Following a pandemic shutdowns surge, Austin’s falling homicide numbers have renewed debate over what drives violent crime and what reduces it.
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From school vouchers to flood warning systems, these are the Texas developments to watch in 2026
Several court hearings and policies affecting education, health, international trade and more will roll out in the new year.
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Texas proposes 13,000% licensing fee hike on retailers who sell hemp-derived THC
Two proposed rules causing the most heartburn among advocates and businesses are new testing requirements and increases in licensing fees.
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Government
James Talarico reports raising nearly $7 million, continuing cash influx to U.S. Senate bid
His primary opponent U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Dallas, said in a statement every quarter last year was a record one for her as a fundraiser, but did not say how much she had hauled.
