We’re very pleased by the final bond
package approved by City Council today. This bond package provides the vision
and resources we need to protect Austin’s quality of life and
environment into the future and Austinites should be excited. We are
particularly thankful for the Council’s efforts on behalf of protecting Barton
Springs and the Edwards Aquifer. After receiving the largest cut of any item
being considered in the bond package, the Council clearly listened to the
overwhelming public support for protecting the springs and increased funds to
$50 million for aquifer land acquisition. The council received more than 1700
postcards, e-mails, phone calls and letters in support of more money for open
space, making it perhaps the single largest commented on item in the whole
package. This proposed investment couldn’t come at a more critical time for
aquifer protection. City staff have warned that 7500 acres of land in the Barton
Springs watershed are under imminent threat of development, jeopardizing water
quality and the unique natural character of our city. Again we thank the Council
for their leadership and are confident Austin voters will like what they
see.
