Special Session Update

[Colleen Pate]

Council Members –

As I’m sure you know, the First Called Special Session is set to convene this next Monday, July 21. I wanted to share with you a few thoughts as we are concurrently moving through our own budget process.

Included in the Governor’s call are items that could directly impact the decisions we are making here at the local level for better – and here’s my caution – or worse.

First, we are uniquely positioned to lead and help on two critical issues that will be top of mind for legislators representing us here in Central Texas – disaster preparedness and flooding. This week, I sent a letter to CAPCOG Executive Director Chris Miller with the City of Austin’s current hazard mitigation plan and potential considerations at the local, state, and federal levels. Given our considerable experience in this area, we are making ourselves available as a resource to the Legislature. I attended the CAPCOG Executive Committee meeting last week and, not unexpectedly, disaster preparedness and flooding were discussed, with particular thoughts related to this upcoming special legislative session. I have also already reached out to the members of the Senate Flood Response Select Committee and Carrie’s office is following up by providing the members information.

The only items that can be considered in a Special Session are those included in the Governor’s “Call”. As we discuss, debate, and consider Austin’s budget, I want to note that his call includes “property tax relief” and “expenditure caps”. Bill filing has started and there are bills filed related to these issues. Carrie and the legislative team will once again be working around the clock to make the case for Austin’s responsible financial policies.

In addition to the disaster and flooding issues and local government budget items, Governor Abbott’s proclamation includes congressional redistricting.

Carrie will send a communication this afternoon to the delegation with the City’s legislative priorities in advance of Monday’s gavel in. As with the Regular Session, you will receive updates from the Government Relations Office throughout the next 30 days (give or take).

Please reach out to me with any questions.

Thanks. Have a good weekend.

Kirk

On behalf of Mayor Watson