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.
Been reading a lot of headlines about what happened to our electric grid during winter storm Uri? Still confused? In the latest episode of The Austin Common Radio Hour, we answer all your questions. Featuring special guest John Hoffner, who has spent nearly all his
Summary With so many Austinites without food, water, and electricity, we’ve put together a list of ways for you to get and give help locally. Action Box If you are able to, choose one of the organizations below and make a donation to help our
Summary More than 4 million Texans lost power during one of the worst winter storms in recent memory. How did that happen? We cover the basics in our latest guide. Action Box Donate to the Community Resilience Trust’s Emergency Relief Fund to support Austin’s unhoused
Is Austin really the most dangerous city in Texas? Did our murder rate actually increase in 2020? And what does any of that have to do with public safety? In the newest episode of The Austin Common Radio Hour, we continue our series on
In this episode of The Austin Common Radio Hour, host Amy Stansbury continues our series on policing with a look back at the history of policing and police reforms in Austin, Texas. Guests include Chris Harris of Texas Appleseed, former Austin City Council Member Bill
In this episode of The Austin Common Radio Hour, host Amy Stansbury kicks off a series about policing in Austin, explaining exactly what changes were made to APD’s budget this past summer and sharing an update on what work has been done since. Guests include
Summary There are 181 members of the Texas Legislature. With our latest guide, we run through the members who represent the Austin area. Action Box Stay engaged with your state representatives during this legislative session. Follow them on social media and save their phone number
Summary The Texas Legislature only meets for 140 days every other year… but a lot of important stuff happens during that time. Learn all about it with our latest guide! Action Box Figure out who represents you in the Texas Legislature & follow them on
In this episode of The Austin Common Radio Hour, host Amy Stansbury shares the importance of city boards & commissions and explains how you can apply to serve on one. Guests include current board/commission members Pooja Sethi & Rocky Lane, as well as Austin City
Summary In the City of Austin, boards and commissions are groups (made up of volunteers) that advise City Council on a variety of key issues. Action Box Now is a great time to apply to serve on a board or commission. If you’re interested in
Summary Over the course of this past year, the City of Austin has released 3 major studies, investigating racial disparities & racism within the Austin Police Department. Action Box You can help shape Austin’s reimagining public safety efforts by filling out an online survey here.
In this episode of The Austin Common Radio Hour, host Amy Stansbury sits down with public education advocate Laura Yeager to give you a little civics lesson on the importance of local school boards. After that, we interview several of the candidates running in Austin’s