The City Council approved $50 million in the bond package for protecting Barton Springs and the Edwards Aquifer today. While falling short of our request of $75 million, this is an important victory and will go a long way towards protecting an estimated 7500 acres at imminent threat of development. Now, the next step is winning on the ballot this November. For an average cost of $3.13 per month per homeowner, the city will be making a major investment ($567 million) in our quality of life and environment. In addition to protecting the aquifer, funds would go to increase and improve our park system, to build more bike lanes, and to support affordable housing projects, a new central library, several new cultural facilities and a new animal shelter. That sounds like a pretty good deal to me. More.