Local government is important. It’s the branch of government that affects your life the most, and yet, many of us can barely remember the name of our mayor or City Council member. That’s why we break it all down for you in a way that’s clear, easy-to-understand, and even a little fun. No PhD in poli sci needed!
New to The Austin Common? Here’s two ways we suggest learning more about local government:
#1 – Get yourself a copy of “A Beginner’s Guide To Local Government: Austin Edition.”
#2 – Start reading our Civics 101 news stories, conveniently laid out for you below.
Summary Austin is having a primary runoff and special election on July 14th. Learn about all the positions that are on the ballot (and what the heck they even mean) with our easy-to-read guide. Action Box Vote. Vote. Vote. Raise your hand if you’ve ever
Every Monday, The Austin Common staff shares what we’re reading, watching, and listening to. This week, we’re focusing our recommendations on police reform & the upcoming election. For more, follow us on Instagram – @the_austin_common. Read: Black Lives Matter’s Years of Pressure Paved Way For
Every Monday, The Austin Common staff shares what we’re reading, watching, and listening to. This week, we’re focusing our recommendations on racial justice & local government. For more, follow us on Instagram – @the_austin_common. Read: A Beginner’s Guide To Local Government Just starting to get involved
Summary We’ve partnered with the team at A Functional Democracy to share some helpful tips for testifying and to help distribute their “A Beginner’s Guide To Local Government” book. Action Box Sign up to speak at the next Council meeting and get yourself a copy
Summary The City of Austin is beginning the process of redrawing our City Council districts, which happens every 10 years. Action Box Help shape Austin for the next 10 years! Apply to serve on the Independent Citizens Redistricting Committee. Right now, the city government is
We’ve talked about it here before, but in case you need a little refresher… Every 10 years the US government conducts a census to get an accurate count of everyone living within our borders, regardless of citizenship status. Numbers compiled during the census
Summary In this edition of our “Austin Orgs You Should Know” series, we highlight the League of Women Voters Austin Area, a nonprofit organization whose mission is “Empowering voters. Defending democracy. Action Box If you’re passionate about democracy and voter education, then become a member
Summary Each year, the City of Austin develops its budget – how much money it will take in (property taxes) and how much money it will spend (and on what). Right now, the city in collecting public input for its 2021 budget. Action Box Influence
Summary Representative Lloyd Doggett’s office answers our readers questions about federal COVID-19 relief and the CARES Act. About the Author Amy Stansbury is the Editor-In-Chief of The Austin Common. You’ve seen the headlines. Trillions of dollars in federal aid are supposed to be coming our
Now, more than ever, it seems pretty important to know what the heck your government is up to. Big decisions are being made every day, right here in Austin, that will affect our lives and livelihood. But how do you attend a Council meeting
Did you know there’s an election going on right now? Yes, really. It’s not getting a lot of media attention, but there are several important issues for you to vote on come November 5th. In Austin, there are two ballot propositions: Prop A
What is your #1 concern, worry, or fear about Austin and its future? Wish we were doing more to address climate change? Or to protect families against displacement and gentrification?Think our parks could use a bit more love and support? It’s August, which