Mayor

Leaving aside the policies you would put in place in achieve it, what is YOUR vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

Kirk Watson

My wife and I moved to Austin in 1981 and fell in love with Austin. Like so many others of our generation, we were lucky enough to be able to stay here because we could cobble together just enough money to buy our first home, even if we didn’t make very much money.

Austin has always been a place where young people- or anyone, really- can come and succeed. In order to keep it that way, we have to take bold action. I would like to see an Austin that has a dramatically higher housing stock, different types of housing, and more transit-oriented, mixed use development.

We must have an Austin that creates generational equity in housing so that we can stay the place that I fell in love with.

Kathryne “Kathie” Tovo

I envision a city where all Austinites can thrive.

I envision an Austin where everyone has access to great educational, housing, and economic opportunities, clean air, clean water, and well-maintained parks.

I envision a local government and a mayor who collaborates with the community to craft policy by providing meaningful opportunities for the public to shape decision-making, and leaders with a philosophy that puts the people and livability of Austin first.

Carmen Llanes-Pulido

Austin is a thriving and diverse city with a mix of people from different incomes and cultures. There is a balance of green and gray, strong water conservation, and we are growing in healthy ways and mitigating heat and flooding risks as we go, with quality transit that reaches all areas of town.

Douglas Greco

Austin is the fastest growing city in the U.S. for millionaires, our income inequality has continued to increase, housing costs have skyrocketed, and our share of Black and Latino residents is decreasing. We are becoming wealthier, whiter, and more unaffordable. I came to Austin in the late 1990’s and taught high school for five years on the Eastside at what was then Johnston High School (now Eastside Early College High). The inequality that I first saw as a teacher in Austin (at the time the Liberal Arts Academy magnet program was also located there) has only increased.

I want to build an Austin which is diverse across the city racially and socioeconomically, and one in which we have many housing options at different levels of income. I don’t want Austin to be the White and wealthy core of a region where the working class and people of color are pushed out to surrounding counties. We need diversity in the type of housing options available including single family homes, duplexes, triplexes, etc. as well as apartments. This also includes housing options for University students as well.

I grew up in a working class Coal Region town in Eastern Pennsylvania. My mom (a single mom with 3 kids) bought the house we grew up in in the mid 1980’s for $30,000, and sold it 2008 for $15,000. I’ve lived in Austin most of my adult life, and even earning a good salary as a nonprofit executive, I could not afford a detached, single family home in Austin. If it wasn’t for the condo complex where I bought a 2-bedroom unit 3 years ago, I probably couldn’t have owned my own place in Westcreek neighborhood.

What are some EXISTING city policies and practices that stand in the way of achieving your vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

Kirk Watson

An outdated land development code from 1984, segregation era housing policies such as large minimum lot sizes, and overcomplicated and lengthy permitting review processes.

Kathryne “Kathie” Tovo

The City of Austin and other public entities have historically under-invested in and discriminated against communities of color. These disparities are evident in public schools, public assets such as Walter E. Long park, varying protections for creeks and other bodies of water, and zoning (including the proliferation of industrial zoning in East Austin). There are also some more permanent scars, such as I-35, which has served as a physical barrier reinforcing these historic inequities and disproportionately affecting the environmental and physical health of the neighborhoods in its path.

City Council has made land use decisions and taken policy actions that have exacerbated gentrification in the Eastern Crescent and have often taken these actions without addressing and working with residents to resolve public concerns about inadequate infrastructure, inequities in environmental protection, and availability of income-restricted housing.

Austin also needs to stand up stronger as a large city to counter attempts by the Texas Legislature to preempt local ordinances and state agencies who frustrate the City’s attempts to tackle housing equity and transportation policy effectively. For instance, state laws have restricted Austin’s attempts to implement policies like rent control and inclusionary zoning, which are crucial for addressing affordable housing issues. Similarly, my opponent—when he was State Senator—was responsible for establishing the current composition of CAMPO which cedes regional transportation dollars to the control of officials who are unaccountable to Austin voters. Austin must demand equitable representation to counter TxDOT’s press for highway expansion undermines the city’s efforts to expand public transportation and develop bike lanes, which hampers the City’s progress toward more sustainable and equitable urban development.

Carmen Llanes-Pulido

Currently there is a lack of robust community planning and contradictory land use policies that continue to land us in court and rarely produce the housing outcomes we really want to see. There is also a mismanagement of our transit funds which is resulting in a halted implementation of our most massive transit plan, Project Connect. Finally, there is no current practice of holding utility elections and we could practice having them again, educating our populace on how to take back control of our utilities and visions.

Douglas Greco

We currently have a bifurcated city. Western parts of the city are wealthy while other sections of the city such as the Eastern Crescent and areas off of North Lamar tend to be much poorer communities of color. But even that is changing as the working class continues to be pushed out of the city. I think we are underinvesting in affordable housing, rental and mortgage assistance, and overnight & short term housing for those experiencing homelessness. I do think the land use code needed to be updated, especially around transportation corridors, transit, UT, but also in single family neighborhoods.

The affordability issue is compounded by the outsized role of institutional investors and private equity firms crowding out families from the housing market. They account for almost 40% of home purchases in Austin. Our city needs a Mayor who will fight to ensure our housing and land use policies benefit those who live here, and plan to live here, not corporations. Austinites, not hedge funds, will be the key to keeping the neighborhood-friendly charm of the Austin we cherish.

What are some policies city council has recently adopted that are POSITIVE steps, if any, toward achieving your vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

Kirk Watson

Many land use items this council recently adopted contribute to increasing mobility, encouraging housing of all types, and supporting transit projects. These items include lowering minimum lot sizes, allowing for more units to be built on each lot, addressing compatibility and height restrictions, and abolishing parking minimums. One of the largest land use policies passed that will shape transit and project connect is the Equitable Transit Oriented Development. This policy focuses on creating a walkable and denser area around project connect.

Kathryne “Kathie” Tovo

Support for Austin schools and families with children: As a Council Member, I led in partnering with AISD to pay for more than 1.5 million caregiver meals during the pandemic and led in helping fund afterschool programs, parent-teacher support specialists, and Family Resource Centers in Title I schools. I also supported investments and policy changes to expand pre-K and childcare opportunities citywide. These are important investments and must continue, and I appreciate the current Council’s expanded support for these programs.

Tenant protections, rental assistance, and the right to return: As a Council Member, I led in passing the “right to return” preference policy, which prioritizes long-term Austinites for city-owned affordable housing, and I led or supported programs to help renters stay in their homes and neighborhoods. The current Council has continued these programs and policies; some have also expressed support for expanding rental assistance programs, which I regard as an important way to help retain Austin’s greatest asset: its people.

Carmen Llanes-Pulido

Passing a resolution in late May to explore forgivable loans and other forms of creative financing for gentle density was a good step, though it is still incomplete and will need a lot of monitoring for implementation. Use of Project Connect funding to improve bus services like circulators is also a positive step.

Douglas Greco

As Lead Organizer with Central Texas Interfaith, my organization built the political will at the city and county to get over $40Million in Rental Assistance in 2020 during the pandemic, and in 2021 fought for and secured another $200Million for permanent housing and services for those experiencing homelessness. We also were part of the coalition to increase the city Living Wage to $20/hr the following year. I also think the city’s investments in Parent Support Specialists, After School Programs, and adult workforce development for living wage jobs (eg. Capital IDEA) are important investments. I do think the land use code needed updating, though I would have also fought at the same time for anti-displacement measures, and mortgage assistance and loan programs to help those who live here and want to live here to compete with institutional investors.

I think the Race Equity/Groundwater analysis training that Dr. Joyce James does with APD cadets & officers is a great investment and should be doubled-down on. She is one of the best in the nation, and I’ve gone through her training twice, once with Central Texas Interfaith and once with APD. The Police Oversight ballot measure which passed handily will be important in providing civilian oversight. I also think we should pay all of our public safety officers well given the type of work that they do.

Also, for the record, I won’t stand with Governor Abbott to bring DPS into our neighborhoods, and I won’t give Abbott’s Deputy Chief of Staff a special favor for his kids charter school, and I won’t pay consulting firms millions to do evaluations that our city staff and local policy organizations and Universities can do.

As a city council member, what additional policy CHANGES will you pursue to achieve your vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

Kirk Watson

The upcoming legislative session is set to begin in January 2025. We will need to work, as a community, to protect Project Connect at the State Capitol. Additionally, this council has been one of the most pro-housing councils that we’ve had in a long time. To ensure that our vision is being implemented, we will need to stay on city staff about the implementation and impact.

Kathryne “Kathie” Tovo

Building on city-owned land and partnering to do the same with other public entities. Implementing the stronger policy actions called for (and passed) in my series of real estate resolutions in Fall 2023 that would make affordable housing more possible on public tracts and would ensure the City holds firm to values such as those pertaining to living wages, workers’ rights, and tenant protections when it enters into negotiations related to public tracts. These policy directions also sought to increase the availability of childcare facilities to provide affordable access to high quality childcare to City employees as well as neighborhoods with childcare gaps.

Focus on the creation of housing should be increasing the number of homes available for current and future residents, not the use of housing as a commodity for investors. This requires cracking down on investor-owned short term rentals to return those thousands of units back to the housing market. We must fix the recent LDC-changes (HOME 1) to prohibit investor-owned STRs on properties with three units. Council has not yet passed but is considering an Equity Overlay with regard to HOME. I supported such an overlay during Code Next and still do: it’s a critical way to mitigate potential displacement in areas identified as high risk for gentrification, and I hope the Council will pass such a provision soon.

Another opportunity to create needed housing would be to work with area colleges and universities to create actionable plans for more student housing, thus creating opportunities for hundreds – perhaps thousands – of units to become available for non-students, and creating more affordably priced student housing options on or closer to campuses.

Carmen Llanes-Pulido

There are many! And we’ll need to bring together other champions on council and a lot of community advocates. Some policy changes I envision include:

-New investments in deeply affordable housing on public and private land
-Preservation and redevelopment incentives for current affordable and transit-friendly housing units
-Water conservation regulations for new development
-Incentives for alternative building systems that reduce cost, carbon footprint, and utility needs
-Reducing fossil fuel investments for Austin Energy including Fayette Coal Plant, and increasing the use of solar batteries (community solar and public solar) to reduce pressure on our grid and fight climate change

Depending on the court decisions related to transit and the land development code, I would propose several policies to bring community stakeholders back into some of these processes to develop legal and sustainable plans for increased density rapid transit improvements. I would push for an initiative to plan growth and development for maximum community benefits (including truly affordable housing and transit access) in areas that lack small area plans. For example, the area north of Beamer between Q2 stadium and the Domain lacks a neighborhood plan, faces rapid redevelopment, has a diverse mix of communities and housing types, and presents an opportunity for beneficial deal-making that reduces traffic congestion, promotes healthy growth, and protects the quality of life of those residents.

Douglas Greco

We need to increase our investments in education programs (and not just AISD programs, but all the Central Texas School Districts that overlap with Austin), workforce development, living wage jobs as well as affordable housing, rental and mortgage assistance, childcare, and housing for those experiencing homelessness.

For single family neighborhoods, I would also have a robust strategy to combat the role of institutional investors in crowding out people who live in our neighborhoods, or want to live in our neighborhoods. This will include mortgage and rental assistance programs, as well as loan programs so that low to moderate income Austinites could earn some extra income from building ADU’s or take advantage of changes in the land use code in other way. Those who live in our neighborhood, or plan to, are less likely to make some of the drastic changes that some investors may make to neighborhoods out of speculation. I would also work with State Rep. Gina Hinojosa (I was her former Chief of Staff) to champion the legislation she filed last session to curb the role of institutional investors.

We also need a mayor that is going to stand up to Governor Abbott and state leaders when our local decisions and civil rights are under attack. I will work with state leaders, but I won’t work for them. Mayor Watson has been unwilling to stand up to state leaders at a time when voting rights, immigrant rights, workers rights, LGBTQ rights, etc. are under attack. It is as if he has Stockholm Syndrome from serving in Dan Patrick’s Senate. For example, he was silent with the DEI cuts to student services at UT. But when I’m elected Mayor, I will convene local leaders, non-profit organizations, students, and other local entities to determine which student programs and services could be replaced locally.

I led the organizing effort at the legislature in 2021 to kill the largest corporate tax subsidy program in Texas, Chapter 313, which took $1B/year in potential school funding and gave it instead to multinational oil and gas companies. Over the next two years I took on the oil and gas industry again and we blocked them from bringing Chapter 313 back, and instead forced them to pass a greatly reformed program. I know how to take on money and power, and win. And the mayor of Austin should be a proud leader in resisting against attack by our right wing state leadership. That’s the type of mayor I’ll be.

District 2

Leaving aside the policies you would put in place in achieve it, what is YOUR vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

Vanessa Fuentes

I believe in a 10-minute city where residents can meet most of their daily needs with a 10-minute walk or bike ride from their homes. I want a city where residents can access grocery stores, schools, workplaces, parks, healthcare facilities, and cultural amenities within a short distance.

What are some EXISTING city policies and practices that stand in the way of achieving your vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

Vanessa Fuentes

Many areas like the one I represent still need the basics, like childcare facilities, grocery stores, and pharmacies. We still have work to do to update our Land Development Code, which stands in the way of building what our community wants or needs.

What are some policies city council has recently adopted that are POSITIVE steps, if any, toward achieving your vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

Vanessa Fuentes

Ending parking minimums, the Home Initiative, and Equitable Transit-Oriented Development are three huge policies that will change the future of our city and help Austinites in their homes. It is hard to overstate the impact that these policies will have on the goal of creating a more connected, walkable Austin.

As a city council member, what additional policy CHANGES will you pursue to achieve your vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

Vanessa Fuentes

I am looking to encourage more mixed-use development and incentivize small businesses to move into communities like District 2. We also must ensure that the work we have already passed is fully implemented.

District 4

Leaving aside the policies you would put in place in achieve it, what is YOUR vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

José “Chito” Vela

My vision for Austin is a more walkable/bikable/transit oriented city with a variety of affordable housing options. A city with a robust public safety response system focused on achieving positive outcomes. And a city with top tier parks, libraries and recreational opportunities available to the working class, not just the wealthy.

What are some EXISTING city policies and practices that stand in the way of achieving your vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

José “Chito” Vela

We have not improved our sidewalk/bicycle/transit infrastructure as quickly or broadly as I would have liked. There is lots of bond money for corridor/trail improvements that has not been spent years after it was passed by voters. We have to be able to more quickly and effectively implement these capital projects. Permitting and cross departmental cooperation on these projects continues to be a challenge. The creation of the capital delivery services department is an important step forward.

The way we deal with flooding and drainage is also a problem. Right now we effectively farm out the task of flooding/water quality control to individual property owners. And while that may be appropriate for a larger multi-acre tract, it is not appropriate for a lot of the more affordable, small scale development we are trying to promote. We need to take a regional approach to flood and water quality controls, acquiring larger tracts of land and using them as detention/filtration/recreational systems. Instead of building smaller, less effective on-site ponds, you should be able to pay into a larger, better designed system.

Lastly, we need to continue to work on our permitting and platting process. CM Ellis site-plan lite ordinance was very good, but the adoption/implementation has not been as broad or impactful as intended. CM Ryan Alter had a similar item regarding subdivisions. We need to continue to work on this, especially for small scale developments. This is in progress, but it will take advocacy with individual departments for this legislation to be successful.

What are some policies city council has recently adopted that are POSITIVE steps, if any, toward achieving your vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

José “Chito” Vela

Our changes with regard to parking, compatibility, ETODs, lot sizes and units allowed per lot are very exciting and, if well-implemented, could lock in affordability in Austin for decades. These changes will help make Austin a more walkable, bikable, transit oriented city. They will help lower carbon emissions and utility costs. We should have made these changes years ago, but I am proud to have vigorously advocated for them from the moment I got on council and am overjoyed we got them done.

Another success has been raising the city’s minimum wage from $15 per hour to its current $20.80 per hour. This has helped us hire lifeguards and get all our swimming pools open during the summer and has helped fill critical positions in maintenance/cleaning in our parks and other operations. Neighborhoods greatly benefit from the city filling these front line positions.

As a city council member, what additional policy CHANGES will you pursue to achieve your vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

José “Chito” Vela

The successful implementation of Project Connect is absolutely critical to Austin’s long term success and its ability to become less of a car-oriented city. Many people have thrown obstacles in the path of implementing Project Connect. I want to push to overcome these legal and administrative obstacles and build the system.

We must also continue to invest in our public safety/public health systems to help our least fortunate neighbors. There are far to many people living on the streets. This is bad for them and bad for the surrounding community. We have over 1000 units of permanently supportive housing coming on line soon and we must continue to make investments in housing and services to house and support our homeless neighbors.

District 6

Leaving aside the policies you would put in place in achieve it, what is YOUR vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

Mackenzie Kelly

Like many Austinites, I am a renter. As a renter, I want rents to be affordable. I was born and raised here in this city that I love, and for the last 37 years, we’ve been through a lot. I vividly recall how my family was evicted from rental homes growing up, and that experience has stayed with me. My vision for Austin is one where affordable housing is accessible to everyone, ensuring that no family has to endure the uncertainty and hardship of eviction.

Single-family homeownership is also crucial to me and my district. Our community loves their yards, the close proximity to schools, and the strong bonds with their neighbors. I remember a neighbor telling me how her children walk safely to school every day, and how they play in their backyard with friends. These aspects create a sense of stability and community that is essential to our well-being.

While I support Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and have sponsored and co-sponsored items in the past to promote them, I believe that increasing density should be carefully thought out. We must ensure that any changes enhance our neighborhoods rather than disrupt the qualities that make them special. Adding density needs to be done in a way that preserves the character and livability of our communities.

My vision for Austin and its neighborhoods is one of inclusivity, where everyone has a place to call home, whether they rent or own. It’s a vision of strong, interconnected communities where people can thrive, knowing they have the stability and support they need, while maintaining the unique charm and close-knit feel that we all cherish.

Krista M. Laine

I envision an Austin that is more connected and less divided, where residents have a strong sense of safety, stability, and belonging, along with:

– more housing and transportation options
– robust infrastructure and basic city services
– access to a variety of parks, pools, hike/bike paths, and music, arts and holiday events
– an overall good quality of life

What are some EXISTING city policies and practices that stand in the way of achieving your vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

Mackenzie Kelly

Zoning Regulations: Current zoning laws often limit the ability to create diverse, mixed-use neighborhoods. They can restrict the types of housing available and where it can be located, often favoring single-family homes over multi-family units, which can stifle the development of affordable housing and reduce density. The passing of the HOME Initiative helped with this some, but there is more work to be done in this space.

Public Transportation Funding and Development: Although Austin has made strides, there’s still a gap in the accessibility and coverage of public transportation. Limited routes and infrequent service can hinder the mobility of residents, especially those in underserved areas, making it difficult to rely on public transit for daily commutes. This is especially true in district six, where I believe there are many public transportation deserts. It has been a challenge working with CapMetro (a different governing body) to address this.

Bike and Pedestrian Infrastructure: While there have been improvements, many areas of Austin still lack safe and continuous bike lanes and pedestrian paths. Enhancing this infrastructure is essential for encouraging non-vehicle travel, reducing traffic congestion, and promoting healthier lifestyles. Anderson Mill Road, for example, has made a lot of progress in this area in D6.

Development Incentives: Current incentives may not adequately encourage or require developers to include affordable housing units or to invest in community amenities that benefit a diverse population. Revising these incentives to prioritize community benefits could help create more inclusive neighborhoods.

Historical Preservation and Neighborhood Character: Policies aimed at preserving the “character” of certain neighborhoods can inadvertently prevent the development of new housing and businesses, maintaining high property values and limiting who can afford to live in these areas. While preserving history is important, these policies need a balance to allow for growth and inclusivity.

Krista M. Laine

Austin’s land development and building approval processes remain significantly longer and more expensive than both neighboring areas and other Texas cities. The land development code and the Development Services & Permitting departments / approval processes should continue to be streamlined so that they become more predictable, less expensive, and more accessible for individual property owners.

City resources should also be directly invested to increase housing affordability and stability for both renters and owners. For example, using land that the city already owns to create affordable housing options for a range of residents from teachers to bus drivers, first responders, and the many service workers who currently face long commutes and limited affordable housing options. Strategic acquisition of both land and older housing stock that is more affordable now and can be redeveloped later for permanent affordable housing is also an important option. These types of investments should be made with a goal of maintaining affordable housing units long term, even after the original occupants move on.

Increasing multimodal connectivity in outlying areas is often neglected but essential to improving traffic and transportation challenges throughout Austin. From safe streets projects to targeted express bus routes and thoughtful connections for hike/bike routes, a variety of low-cost, high-value opportunities exist in D6 that would significantly improve the last-mile connections that are critical to the overall success of large-scale public transportation projects – in addition to enhancing recreation options and overall quality of life. Without consideration of the suburbs, we will continue to have too many cars passing through neighborhoods to reach central parts of the city.

Every neighborhood in Austin must have robust, reliable utilities service and effective public safety coverage. While utilities failures and 911 response time have improved, some areas are still experiencing significant gaps in service. Using actual performance data, city leadership must collaborate with individual departments to establish the highest priorities, create a plan to improve that makes full use of technology and lessons learned during the pandemic, then measure improvement over time in the high priority areas. When staff is short, department staff and resources should remain focused on the high priority areas while an alternative solution is developed for the unmet needs.

What are some policies city council has recently adopted that are POSITIVE steps, if any, toward achieving your vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

Mackenzie Kelly

Here are some policies I have either sponsored or co-sponsored that align with achieving a positive vision for Austin and its neighborhoods:

Policy on Increasing Affordable Housing Options
Summary: This policy directs the City Manager to develop strategies to increase affordable housing availability throughout the city.
Date Passed: March 7, 2024
Item Number: 22

Policy on Transportation Safety and Infrastructure Improvements
Summary: This policy mandates improvements in transportation infrastructure to ensure safer streets and better connectivity for all modes of transport, including walking, biking, and public transportation.
Date Passed: April 4, 2024
Item Number: 38

Policy on Environmental Sustainability Initiatives
Summary: This policy focuses on enhancing environmental sustainability through various initiatives, such as increasing green spaces and reducing the city’s carbon footprint.
Date Passed: January 18, 2024
Item Number: 45

Policy on Supporting Workforce Development Programs
Summary: This policy directs the City Manager to enhance workforce development programs, providing residents with the skills needed to secure better job opportunities.
Date Passed: November 30, 2023
Item Number: 74

Policy on Expanding Mental Health Services
Summary: This policy authorizes the City Manager to expand access to mental health services, ensuring residents have the support they need.
Date Passed: November 30, 2023
Item Number: 76

Policy on Amending Land Development Codes
Summary: This policy initiates amendments to land development codes to promote sustainable development and preserve neighborhood character.
Date Passed: November 9, 2023
Item Number: 27

Policy on Enhancing Public Safety Measures
Summary: This policy directs the City Manager to implement additional public safety measures to ensure a safer community for all residents.
Date Passed: November 2, 2023
Item Number: 23

Krista M. Laine

I support City Council’s efforts to make land development in Austin less expensive and more predictable by:

– streamlining the land development code
– removing barriers to more variety of residential development
– reducing parking minimums
– actively seeking ways to improve efficiency and reduce approval timelines for Development Services and Permitting

I also support City Council’s efforts to increase access to affordable, stable housing for both renters and owners through:

– targeted rental assistance and eviction prevention programs
– targeted resources for first-time homebuyers and homeowners
– oversight of short-term rentals
– creative property acquisition programs, from land to older housing stock near employment centers and transportation hubs
– investment of city resources in affordable housing programs, especially units that remain affordable for the long term

Efforts to improve the balance of shelter available to the unhoused and to improve the efficiency, effectiveness and accessibility of homeless services are also critical to the on-going health of Austin’s neighborhoods.

Additional areas where I think city investment of resources has been critical include:

– multimodal transportation, safer streets, and programs that promote both density and affordability of housing near employment centers, public transportation hubs, and transportation corridors.
– parks, pools, libraries, and other programs that make public spaces more accessible to our neighborhoods for community use, like the Living Streets Program.
– Restructuring to enhance 911 response time, from adding a mental health option when 911 is called to dispatch improvements, adding fire stations, etc.

I also value City Council’s resolutions that lay out clear priorities in areas where resources are scarce and/or residents’ safety or ability to exercise fundamental rights is at stake.

As a city council member, what additional policy CHANGES will you pursue to achieve your vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

Mackenzie Kelly

One of the significant steps I have taken towards achieving my vision for Austin is co-sponsoring the special request audit on office conversions along with Council Member Leslie Pool. This audit explored the potential of converting vacant office spaces into residential housing, addressing both the rise in office vacancies and the housing shortage in our city. The findings highlighted various structural, environmental, legal, and financial challenges, but also underscored the potential benefits and strategies to overcome these hurdles. By supporting such initiatives, we can creatively repurpose unused spaces, thus increasing our housing supply without compromising the integrity of our neighborhoods​​.

As a renter who has experienced the instability of housing firsthand, I want to ensure that rents remain affordable for all Austin residents. Growing up, my family faced eviction from rental homes, an experience that has deeply influenced my commitment to housing stability. My vision for Austin is one where everyone has access to affordable housing, ensuring that no family has to endure the hardship of eviction.

Single-family homeownership is a cornerstone for many in my district. Residents love their yards, the close proximity to schools, and the strong bonds with their neighbors. For instance, I recall a neighbor sharing how her children enjoy walking safely to school and playing in their backyard with friends. These qualities create a sense of stability and community that we must preserve.

While I support increasing housing density through Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and have sponsored and co-sponsored items to promote them, I believe density must be thoughtfully integrated into our neighborhoods. We need to ensure that any changes enhance our communities rather than disrupt the qualities that make them special.

In addition to supporting office-to-residential conversions and ADUs, I will pursue the following policy changes to achieve my vision for Austin:

Incentivize Affordable Housing Development: Implement more robust incentive programs for developers to include affordable units in their projects. This can include tax abatements, fee waivers, and expedited permitting processes for developments that commit to affordable housing.

Strengthen Tenant Protections: Advocate for stronger tenant protections to prevent unjust evictions and ensure that renters have safe and stable housing.

Promote Sustainable Development: Support policies that encourage sustainable building practices and the preservation of green spaces within urban developments. This includes incentivizing the use of renewable energy and eco-friendly building materials.

Expand Public Transportation and Infrastructure: Improve public transportation options and infrastructure to support increased density without overwhelming our existing systems. This includes expanding bike lanes, pedestrian paths, and reliable public transit routes.

Enhance Community Engagement: Foster greater community engagement in planning and development processes to ensure that changes reflect the needs and desires of residents. This includes creating more opportunities for public input and collaboration.

By pursuing these policy changes, we can create a more inclusive, stable, and vibrant Austin, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive in their chosen community.

Krista M. Laine

Austin has long been known as a diverse and welcoming city. If we want to maintain the communities and quality of life we treasure, then thoughtful, cost-effective investments in housing, multi-modal transportation, utilities, public safety, parks/recreation, and core city services are essential. With staffing shortages and resource limitations, we must also continue to streamline both regulations and processes – from development and permitting to public safety and other city services.

While city leadership has already laid a foundation, the work is far from complete. Incremental change must continue, grounded in the priorities laid out in the preceding responses.

District 7

Leaving aside the policies you would put in place in achieve it, what is YOUR vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

Pierre H. Nguyen

My vision for Austin to maintain a sense of community and resilience within our neighborhoods; focused around education, activity, social connection, and bringing people together to have more face-to-face conversations and interactions.

Mike Siegel

I want Austin and its neighborhoods to be welcoming, safe, sustainable, accessible, and beautiful. Our neighborhoods should bring people together from all backgrounds and walks of life, and should be pleasant and enjoyable on foot, by bicycle, by public transit and private vehicle. We should emphasize our natural features and resources, like Shoal Creek in District 7, and continue to be forward-thinking as environmental stewards by modeling effective responses to climate change.

Edwin Bautista

I envision an Austin where everyone has access to safe, affordable housing in diverse and thriving neighborhoods. I’m of the belief that Austin should be a city where people from all walks of life can live, work, and play without fear of displacement or discrimination. My work with Texas Housers and my advocacy for affordable student housing highlight my commitment to tackling the housing crisis. I support creating mixed-income neighborhoods that prevent displacement and preserve the unique cultural fabric of our city. Lastly, I stand firm in my dedication to creating deeply affordable housing in Austin through innovative partnerships and local policy.

Transportation is a key part of this vision. I see an Austin where walking, biking, and using public transit are not only viable options but are safe, convenient, and accessible to everyone. I believe this vision can help the city reduce traffic congestion, lower it’s carbon footprint and create a healthier, more connected community. Austinites need to continue investing in comprehensive public transportation systems that connect every neighborhoods and make it easier for people to commute and engage within their community. My experience on the College Student Commission, where I advocated for better transportation options, in addition to my service on the Project Connect’s Community Review Panel, which helped guide the initial $20 million dispersal of Community Initiated Solutions funding related to the Anti-Displacement initiative, underscore my commitment to this vision. Lastly, I support reducing the reliance on cars and making our streets safer for everyone.

I envision a city that continues to be a national leader in environmental sustainability. This means doubling down on our investments in green infrastructure, promoting renewable energy, and implementing policies that ensure new developments are environmentally responsible. I believe the city should grow in a way that respects and preserves our natural resources. As someone that understand the difference between urban planning and urban design, I strongly believe public spaces should be designed to foster community interaction, with parks, community centers, and local businesses creating hubs of activity and engagement.

Community engagement is another cornerstone of my vision. As a certified urban planner, I believe in fostering a local government that is transparent yet inclusive and where residents feel empowered to participate in decision-making processes. My campaign platform clearly emphasizes the importance of listening to and collaborating with community members to address their needs and concerns effectively.

Basically, my vision for Austin is one where diversity is celebrated, housing is affordable, transportation is accessible, the environment is protected, and communities are empowered.

Adam C. Powell

I believe in a truly welcoming Austin. A city where everyone can find housing that meets their needs regardless of their background, where community spaces of all kinds are thriving, and where you don’t need to own a car to truly exist here. I always think of my future kids and grand-kids: I want them to be able to grow up in the best city in the world and feel comfortable in the knowledge that the city itself wants them there.

Todd W. Shaw

Austin’s urban neighborhoods are no longer the subdivisions from the 40s – 70s. As these urban areas transform, we need to increase the amount of housing with a variety of housing types and sizes to assure that Austinites at all different income levels can thrive within our inner city communities. In addition to a variety of housing types, we need to continue providing all mobility options within our neighborhoods. These housing and mobility options will make Austin more affordable and reduce emissions contributing to climate change. We must also ensure that our infrastructure and utilities are transformed to support this new inner-city environment, especially in areas that have been historically underserved.

What are some EXISTING city policies and practices that stand in the way of achieving your vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

Pierre H. Nguyen

I think that, when representatives don’t go into the communities that are foreign or don’t reflect their very own backgrounds or personal communities to them, it fosters a level separation between the representation we get versus the representation we need. I think that the way we currently do public input is very exclusionary and does not meet people where they need to be met for us to get true input. I’d do things a little differently and work on building input from every community. I also think that just because I am running for one district does not mean I cannot speak in advocacy of a neighborhood that I feel is being underrepresented in another district. I think this idea that it’s someone else’s district (or hood) so we can’t speak against what they propose that can potentially harm those communities is a very harmful narrative that we must get past.

Mike Siegel

Overall, we need to continue to push the City to update its Code, policies and practices to reflect our growing status as an international destination with a million people. Changes are needed across departments and policy areas to make it easier to build the City we deserve.

A very specific example from District 7: Burnet Road. Burnet is the “spine” of District 7, and runs from its oldest neighborhoods to its newest. From 45th Street, at its southernmost portion in Allandale, all the way north past the Domain, it’s a street that is growing and developing in many ways, with new apartments, a variety of restaurants and stores, and an overall evolution from rundown strip malls to vibrant residential and commercial uses. At the same time, Burnet Road is very much a state highway that is unsafe for pedestrians and bicyclists, inhospitable to foot traffic, and caught between an outdated vision of suburban car culture and our newer urban reality.

I see the status quo as unacceptable on multiple levels. On pedestrian safety, people walking up and down the sidewalks are exposed to fast-moving car traffic without any barrier in between. There are no protected crossings for long stretches of the road. If you’re drinking a coffee at Taco Deli in Crestview and want to go across the street to Black Pearl Books, you have to avoid freeway traffic. In terms of bicycles, there is no bike lane or sidewalk riding space. My daughter rides her bike to school at Lamar Middle and has been nearly hit by vehicles in the crosswalk on at least two occasions. We need to figure out how to slow traffic, protect cyclists, encourage foot traffic, and help the neighborhood realize its true potential.

Edwin Bautista

1) The current Land Development Code restricts the development of high-density housing in many areas of Austin, which exacerbates the housing affordability crisis. I believe this limits the ability to build diverse types of housing, such as multi-family units, missing middle housing and affordable housing developments, in various parts of the city. The lack of flexibility in the LDC makes it difficult to increase housing supply and meet the growing demand which can lead to higher housing costs and also displacement of lower-income Austinites​.

2) The city’s existing zoning policies often prioritize single-family homes over multi-family developments and also greatly limit the availability of affordable housing or housing in general. It’s clear to me that some regulations prevent the construction of mixed-use developments and higher-density housing options in many neighborhoods. Unfortunately, the existing zoning policies have largely resulted in urban sprawl and increased reliance on cars, which are contrary to Austin’s goal of creating walkable, bikeable, and transit-oriented communities​.

3) While the the city has enacted commendable policies aimed at preventing displacement, they’re not comprehensive enough to address the issue effectively. The lack of robust anti-displacement measures means that vulnerable populations are often forced out of their neighborhoods due to rising housing costs and redevelopment projects. As a former low-income student, I experienced housing insecurity and was indirectly displaced from the West Campus neighborhood as an undergraduate attending the UT. I believe that strengthening the city’s anti-displacement policies is crucial to ensuring that long-term Austinites can remain in their homes and communities​.

4) The current funding and infrastructure for public transportation in Austin are inadequate to meet the needs of a rapidly growing population. In my view, insufficient investment in public transit leads to limited service coverage and frequency, making it less reliable and convenient for residents. I believe this can discourage the use of public transit and perpetuates car dependency which further contributes to traffic congestion and environmental issues​.

5) There is a clear need for more inclusive and transparent community engagement practices in city decision-making processes. Even after a court ordered ordinance rewrite for public comment, the city’s community engagement practices often fail to adequately involve diverse communities/marginalized groups and which can result in policies that do not fully reflect the needs and perspectives of all residents. I believe that enhancing community engagement is essential for creating local policies that are equitable and effective​.

Adam C. Powell

Primarily a variety of restrictive and arbitrary land use/zoning regulations that stifle Austin neighborhoods from growing in sustainable and unique ways.

In regards to housing a great example of this is the years-long process of site plan reform through Site Plan Lite. The difficulties in simplifying the 5-16 unit segment of this policy are literally resulting in Missing Middle housing staying missing. I’ve heard from homeowners and small builders who want to create these options in community-conscious and sensible ways, but are finding it completely untenable due to our continued failure in making the site planning process comprehensible to anyone other than the largest of developers.

Another example is the arbitrary restrictions on what “mixed-use” can be, resulting in commercial weaved in with residential in a way that doesn’t work for most small business owners. This robs our community’s of much-needed walkable 3rd spaces that create the thriving environments Austinites deserve.

Todd W. Shaw

The 1980s land code we are still using to transform our City in the 2020s. We will not be able to meet our affordability challenges and address climate change with a 1980’s land code. Council has enacted recent changes to our land code that will increase housing, but there is so much more that can be done through a new comprehensive land code.
Our subdivision and site plan process is too expensive and cumbersome. The current plans to streamline these for multi-unit developments (5-16 units) will address these issues in part.
Council needs to work closely with the new City Manager to ensure there is accountability to prioritize the implementation of policies that increase housing and mobility options. We need to assure that our public notice process will survive lawsuits such as the ones that have caused recent code victories to be rolled back.

What are some policies city council has recently adopted that are POSITIVE steps, if any, toward achieving your vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

Pierre H. Nguyen

I think that a focus on reporting hate crime, I.e. the “We all belong” initiative is much needed to highlight a very much growing problem in our communities. As a victim of hate crimes here in Austin and other places, I’ve realize how hiding the problem does not resolve it and hate comes out of not seeing the many commonalities that we all share and addressing it and highlighting it allows us to have those tougher conversations and educate people better.

Mike Siegel

I supported the HOME initiative because we need to prioritize infill housing over sprawl. While knocking doors in Crestview, I spoke to a nurse supervisor at St. David’s hospital on W. 38th who told me that on-call nurses—who need to be at their nurse’s station within 30 minutes of getting a call—can’t afford to live within the call radius. Our teachers can’t afford to live in the City, nor the electrical workers who turn the lights on after an outage. The workers who make Austin the great city it is should have a place to make their home. Infill housing is important for climate action, it’s important for cultivating vibrant neighborhoods, and it’s important for facilitating economic diversity and a good quality of life for all within our city limits.

Among other good policies the City Council has supported in recent years, putting Project Connect on the ballot in 2020 stands out as making the kind of investments we need to build the compact, walkable, environmentally sustainable community we need.

Edwin Bautista

1) Affordable Housing – the council has approved funding for various development projects and enacted local policies aimed at increasing deeply affordable housing options, such as Affordability Unlocked. I support increasing these investments which are aimed at creating or preserving deeply affordable housing as they’re crucial for addressing Austin’s housing crisis and ensuring that people of all income levels can find a place to live in our city​​.

2) Homelessness Response – the council has allocated over $80 million towards homelessness response efforts and is taking steps to provide support and resources to those experiencing homelessness. I support the efforts to shelter our unhoused neighbors.

3) Equitable Transit-Oriented Development – the council adoption of ETOD policies has been a significant step toward creating more accessible and sustainable transportation options. I strongly support this initiative and would like to learn more about it.

4) Climate Resilience and Sustainability Measures – the council has implemented various policies focused on climate resilience and sustainability in addition to adopting the Austin Climate Equity Plan, which outlines strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance environmental equity, ensuring that all communities benefit from green initiatives.

5) Enhanced Community Policing and Public Safety – the council has signaled a commitment to recent policing and public safety reforms voted on by Austinites that aim to build trust between law enforcement and the community. If elected, I will support these changes which include increased transparency, accountability, and community involvement in public safety decisions.

7) Cultural and Historical Preservation – the efforts of the council to preserve Austin’s cultural and historical landmarks have been strengthened by the city’s Equity-Based Preservation Plan. I support the creation of cultural/historic districts and policies that protect significant sites and promote cultural heritage align with the goal of maintaining Austin’s unique identity while fostering community pride.

Adam C. Powell

Both phases of HOME, eliminating parking minimums, and compatibility reform through ETOD. I testified in support of each of these in from of our Mayor/City Council, because I strongly believe they are long-overdue systemic reforms that acknowledge the realities of our growing city. From here I’m tracking closely on the implementation of all of these policies: passing them is one thing, but making them actionable for a wide diversity of Austinites is another thing entirely.

Todd W. Shaw

I chaired the Planning Commission and served on the working group for HOME Phase 1. Working with various community groups, we significantly improved the staff’s draft language to ensure the code change resulted in an increase in smaller housing types. Also during my time on Planning Commission, I supported code changes that increased housing such as Affordability Unlocked, as well as updates to our comprehensive plan; Housing Blueprint and Strategic Mobility Plan Amendments. Finally, I fully support recent code changes; HOME Phase 2, ETOD, compatibility.

As a city council member, what additional policy CHANGES will you pursue to achieve your vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

Pierre H. Nguyen

Please keep a look out for my policies, being released in the next few weeks and also, follow along as I continue to advise council on policy changes through my capacity as the D7 Public Safety Commissioner and as at-large Asian American Quality of Life Commissioner for Austin.

Mike Siegel

There are countless reforms large and small needed, some of which I’m aware of with specificity, and other issues that I’m aware of more generally. To facilitate infill housing and to realize the positive vision of the HOME initiative, we need to reform the site plan process and ease the lot subdivision process. As it stands, City rules and practices make infill construction too expensive. In practice, this means that builders will continue to focus on suburban developments, to the detriment of the planet and the City’s tax base. The City’s rules and regulations should incentivize infill over sprawl.

I want to make it easier to plant trees on City streets and calm traffic on busy corridors. I want to support small businesses that form the backbone of our most vibrant neighborhoods and are often left out of City Hall discussions. I also want to invest in necessary infrastructure to help our City catch up with massive growth — whether that is parks, drainage, sidewalks, bike lanes and more.

Edwin Bautista

If elected to represent District 7 on the Austin City Council, I will advocate for several policy changes to further align with my vision for Austin and its neighborhoods. Below are the key areas I will focus on:

1) Comprehensive Land Development Code Reform = I pledge to support an overhaul of Austin’s land development code so that it supports higher-density/mixed-use developments and is aligned with the goals outlined in Imagine Austin.
– I believe the current code is outdated and restricts the development of affordable housing and diverse neighborhood designs. I also believe the city can better promote the development of affordable, multi-family housing and create vibrant, walkable communities through a comprehensive LDC rewrite.

2) Strengthening Anti-Displacement Measures = I pledge to implement stronger anti-displacement protections for vulnerable communities.
– I believe that rising housing costs and gentrification threaten to displace long-term residents and the city needs more robust policies to protect affordable housing and support those at risk of displacement.

3) Increasing Affordable Housing Funding = I pledge to increase funding for the Housing Trust Fund and support local initiatives for deeply affordable housing.
– To address the affordable housing crisis, I believe the city needs to ensure there is adequate funding to support the development and preservation of deeply affordable housing units (this includes creating incentives to build more subsidized or non market housing).

4) Enhancing Environmental Sustainability = I will implement policies that promote green building practices, increase renewable energy usage, and enhance urban green spaces.
– I believe the city needs to prioritize environmental sustainability in all aspects of city planning and development to effectively combat climate change and make Austin more resilient. The latter includes incentives for green buildings, expanding solar energy programs, and protecting our parks and natural resources.
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5) Improving Community Engagement and Transparency = I pledge to create more opportunities for community input and increase transparency in city decision-making processes by creating an Office of Community Engagement.
– I strongly believe effective governance requires the input and engagement of all community members. The city can make more informed and inclusive policy decisions by enhancing transparency and providing more platforms for community voices to be heard.

6) Promoting Economic Equity = I will support policies that create economic opportunities for all residents, including job training programs and small business support.
– There’s no doubt that economic equity is crucial for a thriving community. I believe the city can ensure that all Austinites have the opportunity to succeed by investing in job training and providing support for small businesses, especially those owned by underrepresented communities.

7) Local Governance Reform = I believe the innovative proposal below will enable Austin to meet 21st-century challenges and ensure a responsive, efficient, and representative local government.
– Transition to a Strong-Mayor System: position the Mayor as the chief executive officer and head of city government, overseeing administration and implementation of city policies. This change is designed to streamline decision-making processes for quicker and more effective responses to city needs.
– Reduction and Restructuring of Council Districts: strategically reduce the number of Council districts from ten to five, with each district electing two representatives – one by the district and one at-large. This dual-representation model aims to balance localized attention with city-wide representation.
– Implementing Checks and Balances: introduce mechanisms such as enhanced oversight capabilities for the City Council, annual independent audits, and limited veto power for the Mayor to ensure collaborative decision-making.

Adam C. Powell

Simply put, I want to see more options for commercial to be weaved within residential, and for residential to be weaved within commercial. I’m particularly passionate about incentivizing smaller commercial spaces within walkable, residential areas. This is a win not just for the communities, but also for small business owners who deserve more options than just food trucks or large commercial spaces. Accessory Commercial Units within residential areas could be a way for us to accomplish this.

Todd W. Shaw

Comprehensive land code reform with increased focus on outreach and public input.

Make Accessory Dwelling Unit construction less expensive with decreased permitting costs and schedule.

Incentivize increased housing in High Opportunity areas to meet our Strategic Housing Blueprint 10-year goal and decrease gentrification pressure in east Austin.

While increasing housing and mobility options within our urban neighborhoods, make sure we are improving our utility infrastructure such as adequate drainage and reliable water and electric service. This is especially important to protect our neighborhoods from future impacts of climate change.

District 10

Leaving aside the policies you would put in place in achieve it, what is YOUR vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

Ashika Ganguly

My vision for Austin and it’s neighborhoods focuses on 3 values pursued and enacted into law. First, inclusive communities: ensuring our neighborhoods with unique identities that are still accessible and inclusive to all Austinites regardless of background. Second, sustainable growth: housing and mobility options that meet the needs of Austin’s growing population while keeping costs down, honoring historic spaces and environmental concerns, and continuing to provide every Austinite with access to green space, transit, and other enrichment. Finally, mobility and connectivity: public transit options like urban bike trails/protected bike lanes and rail that provide greater mobility from one side of Austin to the other for commuters, while reducing traffic and environmental impact as well as connecting historically disparate communities such as North/South Austin and East/West Austin.

What are some EXISTING city policies and practices that stand in the way of achieving your vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

Ashika Ganguly

First, I think an immediate priority needs to be addressing low ridership Cap Metro/Car centric culture in Austin. The lack of transit options in areas where ridership is low, especially a lack of metro stops in D10/West Austin contributes to the limited multi-modal mobility for residents to and from these areas. Current compatibility standards also limit the ability for transit oriented development and mixed-use development that contributes to close-knit and walkable neighborhoods.

What are some policies city council has recently adopted that are POSITIVE steps, if any, toward achieving your vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

Ashika Ganguly

HOME initiative
ETOD
Barton Springs bike lane/CityLEAP
Removing parking minimums
Site plan lite

As a city council member, what additional policy CHANGES will you pursue to achieve your vision for Austin and its neighborhoods?

Ashika Ganguly

When elected, on City Council I would pursue active and community driven initiatives that achieve a vision of a more vibrant Austin. That includes promoting policies which encourage infill development and smaller, varied housing options for renters and owners alike, single stair reform, preserving existing affordable housing stock or designate replacements for displacement, continue to concentrate density on transit corridors as well as connectivity that meets the neighborhoods where they are (such as expanded hike and bike trails into the urban core from West Austin). Additionally, I would look at streamlining and investing in the permitting process to reform the one-size-fits-all burdensome status quo that delays legal development with costs from those delays being offset onto the housing consumer – and our community.