Austin plans big bond push for streets, libraries
- City leaders began discussions for a proposed $200 million bond program to fund critical infrastructure like streets and libraries, noting this would be the first such bond election in Austin since 1984 despite significant population growth.
- The Council debated potential timelines for bond elections (e.g., 1992 and 1994/1995) and emphasized the need for public hearings to gather community input before finalizing any schedule.
- The Mayor urged immediate formation of a citizen committee and unified public support to ensure the bond election's success, highlighting the urgency to address the city's growing needs.
- The City Manager was tasked with developing a detailed plan for the bond program and election schedule for presentation by May 27th.
- Separately, one Councilmember proposed expanding the Blackshear Pilot Program to five additional neighborhoods.
Full Transcript
LUISTIA FOUNDED ERSO Austin City Council MINUTES May 20, 1992 - SPECIAL CALLED MEETING TOWN LAKE CENTER 1:30 Ρ.Μ. - Mayor Todd called to order the special called meeting of the Council, noting the absence of Councilmember Epstein. WORKSESSION 1. Bond Program Recommendations on Bond Program by members of the Planning Commission Dr. Gail Gemberling, Planning Commission, presented their recommendations for the 1992 Bond Program. She said it is basically the same as that found on pages 12 and 13 of the Department of Public Works and Transportation report. (That report is on file in the City Clerk's office.) The recommendation of the Planning Commission is unanimous. First Assistant City Manager Byron Marshall stated there will be a Bond Election in 1992 and 1994 for a total not in excess of $200 million dollars. Betty Dunkerley, Financial Director, went over the figures for the bond sales. Questions were asked by Council. Staff Presentation Bill Stockton, Director of Public Works and Transportation, discussed projects for funding in the next two bond elections. He asked Council for directions as to which way the Council wants the election to be. Discussion of Bond Program Mayor Todd said the reason for a bond election now is that we have not had once since 1984. The population growth continues and libraries, streets, etc. are needed. Mayor Todd said that of the Options proposed he thinks Option 3 has some real possibilities. that would call for an election in 1992 and 1995. Councilmember Garcia agreed that Option 3 makes good sense but wants to hear public hearings at Council meetings before making any schedule. Mayor Todd asked the City Manager to bring back a plan by May 27, MINUTES 1 5/20/92 ! 1992. He told members of the Council that once the bond election is set "we must all support" for a successful bond election. Mayor Todd said a citizen committee is needed to support this bond election and that time before the election is growing short. Councilmember Garcia commented that he would like to see the Blackshear Pilot Program extended to five neighborhoods. ADJOURNMENT Council adjourned at 3:00 Ρ.Μ. MINUTES 2 5/20/92