10-1 - In November 2012, Austin voters approved a switch from a seven-member City Council that was elected citywide to the current system, nicknamed "10-1". Under the new system, ten City Council members are elected by their own Austin district, while the mayoral election remains citywide.
1115 waiver - Shorthand for a federal program that allows entities to apply for federal funds. In place from 2011-2016, the program allowed Travis County Integral care to apply for dollars targeted at "transforming" health care services for low-income residents.
2012 Bond Election Advisory Task Force - A citizens group charged with determining what items would be included in the 2012 City of Austin bond request. They ultimately approved seven major categories of funding requests: Transportation and Mobility; Open Space and Watershed Protection; Parks and Recreation; Housing; Public Safety; Health & Human Services; Library, Museum, and Cultural Arts Facilities. Voters approved six of the seven requests, declining only to approve $78 million for affordable housing projects.
2012 City of Austin Bond Election - A total of seven individual requests, which included programs for Transportation and Mobility; Open Space & Watershed Protection; Parks and Recreation; Housing; Public Safety; Health and Human Services; and Library, Museum and Cultural Arts Facilities. All but $78 million in housing bonds passed, granting city officials more than $300 million in new money to work with.
2013 Proposition 6 - A state ballot question that asked Texas residents to approve the transfer of $2 billion from the state's Rainy Day Fund to two accounts intended to funnel that money to water projects. It passed.
2013 Texas House Bill 2 - A bill intended to add levels of regulation to facilities that perform abortions in Texas. It, and other like legislation, lead to markedly raucous demonstrations and a large public platform for then-Senator Wendy Davis (D-Fort Worth). Davis parlayed the experience into an unsuccessful 2014 gubernatorial run.
2014 Travis County primary - Held March 4, 2014, during this election notable races decided included Sarah Eckhardt's defeat of Andy Brown for the Democratic nominee for County Judge and Brigid Shea's defeat of Garry Brown and Richard Jung for the Democratic nominee for Commissioner Pct. 1.
2020 U.S. Census - The U.S. Census is a Constitution-required count of the population that takes place once a decade (and has since 1790.) The resulting count determines how federal tax dollars, among other things, are shared for the subsequent decade.
2035 CAMPO Transportation Plan - A regional transportation plan looking at future development in Central Texas through 2035. One of a series of such plans, it also led to Project Connect, and a 2014 City of Austin mobility bond.
ACC Highland - Austin Community College campus is located at the former Highland Mall in north-central Austin. In 2014, the place played a key role in discussions over the location of a potential urban rail transit line.
accessory dwelling units - This term refers to smaller, secondary units built on the property of a primary residence. Also known as ADUs, mother-in-law suites, granny flats, or garden apartments, among other things.
AFA Local 975 - The local union for City of Austin Firefighters.
Affordability - A multi-faceted discussion that centers around the relative cost-of-living in a given municipality. In Austin, this debate has returned discussions on such divers concepts as land use, density, living wages, and public transportation.
affordable housing - This general term refers to housing that is affordable to Austinites, with or without subsidy.
African American Resource Advisory Commission - The African American Resource Advisory Commission advises the Austin City Council on quality of life issues for the city’s African-American community and recommends programs to alleviate inequality.
AFSCME - This is the union for municipal workers. Locally, Austin regional chapter 1624, dates to 1969.
Airport Overlay - This area near the Austin Bergstrom International airport has special zoning restrictions that include limitations and prohibitions on residential uses. When the airport moved to its current location, the city used federal money to purchase nearby houses. As a condition of using those federal dollars, the city also created an overlay which prohibits certain uses in the overlay.
AISD - Austin's largest school district, AISD is the Austin Independent School District.
AISD Board of Trustees - This is the governing board of the Austin Independent School District. The board is comprised of two at-large members and seven district representatives.
Alfred Stanley - Austinite, political advisor, and owner of FireWatch America, which holds a contract with the City of Austin and West Lake Hills to provide early warning about wildfires. Charter member of the Capital of Texas Media Foundation.
Alison Alter - Austin City Council member for District 10, first elected to City Council in 2016.
Allandale Neighborhood Association - Allandale is located in ZIP codes 78756 and 78757. The neighborhood boundaries are, roughly, Burnet Road to the east, Mopac Expressway to the west, Hancock Drive to the south, and West Anderson Lane to the north.
Animal Advisory Commission - The Animal Advisory Commission advises the Austin City Council and the Travis County Commissioners Court on Texas Health and Safety Code compliance regarding animal shelters and on animal welfare policies.
Animal Services - This is the city department tasked with running the city's animal shelter, providing care to more than 20,000 animals a year, and maintaining Austin's no-kill status.
Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail - This is the urban path that runs around Lady Bird Lake, in downtown Austin. It is named after the former mayor of Austin, Roy Butler, and his wife Ann.
Ann Howard - The Travis County Commissioner for District 3, Howard was first elected in 2020 as a Democrat.
Ann Kitchen - Austin City Council member for District 5, first elected to Council in 2014. Kitchen also represented southwest Austin from 2000 to 2002 as a member of the Texas House.
annexation - Annexation is the way that cities extend their municipal services, regulations, voting privileges and taxing authority to new land. In 2017, the Texas Legislature passed a bill that allows those who would be annexed by the city to vote on their own annexation, slowing the pace of annexation by the city.
aquifer - An underground layer of water-bearing rock that transmits water to springs (and wells.) Austin's groundwater comes from aquifers.
ARIC - Short for Austin Regional Intelligence Center, this is the moniker of the city's version of what have been nationally called "fusion centers."
Armbrust & Brown - law practice based in Austin. Armbrust & Brown has donated to the Capital of Texas Media Foundation.
Art Acevedo - Former Chief of Police for the Austin Police Department, Acevedo resigned in 2016 to go head the Houston Police Department.
Art In Public Places - Since 1985 this program has worked to install public art throughout the city. Under city statute, two percent of eligible capital improvement project budgets is directed towards art for the site. The public art collection that results from this program can be seen at places like the airport, city hall, libraries, parks and streetscapes.
Arts Commission - The Arts Commission advises the Austin City Council in all arts-related matters, fosters the development of the arts, and promotes cooperation between the City and the public.
Asian American Resource Center - Austin's Asian American Resource Center is located at 8401 Cameron Road, and works to provide space and resources through an Asian American/ Pacific Islander perspective and help empower Austin's diverse communities through increased cultural understanding and opportunity.
Atlas 14 - This study, conducted by the National Weather Service, shows that Central Texas is more likely to experience larger storms than previously thought, based on historical rainfall. This means that severe flooding is also more likely, and floodplains have changed.
ATXN - Formerly Channel 6, the City of Austin-owned television outlet that airs Council meetings as well as those of some City of Austin advisory bodies.
Auditorium Shores - Austin park located on Lady Bird Lake between South First Street and Lamar Boulevard. In 2015, the City Council named the east lawn of the park "Vic Mathias Shores" in honor of the former Austin business leader who co-founded the Austin Aqua Festival.
AURA - This organization started as an advocacy group organized around the city of Austin's November 2014 urban rail bond election. Its members have since announced their intention to broaden the focus of their work to include other issues. Its membership still holds a largely New Urbanist set of views.
Austin Affordability Action Plan - A 2017 plan led by Council Member Ellen Troxclair that attempted to address the increasing affordability crisis through: housing, transportation, budgeting, cost of living and the economy. It was ultimately shelved by a divided City Council.
Austin African-American Firefighters Association - The local chapter of the International Association of Black Professional Firefighters, this group works with the city to promote a diverse firefighter workforce.
Austin Airport Advisory Commission - The Austin Airport Advisory Commission makes recommendations to the Austin City Council on aviation projects, grants and the Austin Bergstrom International Airport’s annual operating budget and quality of services.
Austin Animal Shelter - This shelter is the official shelter of the city of Austin, opened in 2011. It is located in East Austin on Levander Loop.
Austin Apartment Association - local trade association comprised of groups that represent and the apartment rental industry. The Austin Apartment Association has donated to the Austin Monitor.
Austin Area Comprehensive HIV Planning Council - The Comprehensive HIV Planning Council is made up of three committees which guide and develop care practices, support services and projects for persons living with HIV/AIDS.
Austin Blind Salamander - The Austin Blind Salamander lives in the underground waters of the Edwards Aquifer, below the surface of Barton Springs, its only known habitat. "Euycea waterlooensis" is an endangered species.
Austin Board of Realtors - The Austin Board of Realtors is an 8600-member organization for real estate agents in the city. It maintains the city's Member Listing Service (MLS) database. ABoR is also a charter member of the Capital of Texas Media Foundation. As such, they have donated CoTMF. CoTMF is the parent organization of the Austin Monitor.
Austin Center for Events (ACE) - The Austin Center for Events is a collaborative office anchored by teams from transportation, music, police, fire, EMS, and other City departments and agencies. The office oversees special events in the city.
Austin City Auditor Ken Mory - Ken Mory was the city's Auditor. After concerns raised about oversight of the Austin/Travis County EMS department, who overpaid an employee by about $200,000 over 11 years, and a handful of other issues, Mory announced his intent to leave in December, 2014.
Austin City Council - The Austin City Council is the body with legislative purview over the City of Austin. It offers policy direction, while the office of the City Manager implements administrative actions based on those policies. Until 2015, the body contained seven members, including the city's Mayor, all elected at-large. In 2012, City of Austin residents voted to change that system and as of 2015, 10 members of the Council are elected based on geographic districts. The Mayor continues to be elected at-large.
Austin City Council Audit and Finance Committee - A sub-group of the Austin City Council whose members are charged with oversight of city fiscal operations and anything that falls under the purview of the Office of the City Auditor. Reports and documents for the committee can be found here.
Austin City Council Judicial Committee - A City Council Committee once tasked with oversight of the city's courts and related issues. This committee was renamed in 2020, and the new Public Safety Committee has an expanded role that includes review of policing issues, emergency medical services, fire services, criminal justice and related matters.
Austin City Council November 2014 Elections - The November 2014 Austin City Council elections marked a shift from an all-at-large City Council to one elected based mostly on geographic districts. The city's Mayor remains elected at-large.
Austin City Council Public Health Committee - Formerly known as the Health and Human Services Committee, this Council subgroup oversees things such as "social services, education, public health, health care services, animal welfare, sustainable food, social equity, veterans' affairs, populations at risk, and related matters," according to the city website.
Austin City Council Regional Affordability Committee - A committee composed of City Council Members, Travis County Commissioners, CapMetro, the Central Board of Health and regional school districts to assess the Austin area’s affordability.
Austin City Council Transition Committee - Though it's not an "official" committee, this City Council group was formed to take a look at the Council committee system that was reformed in 2015 in order to make the process more uniform and easier to understand and manage. It was quickly nicknamed the "Committee Committee."
Austin City Hall - The city’s government center, where city council meetings, boards and commission meetings and committee meetings take place.
Austin Code - Formerly known as Code Compliance, this is the city department that handles enforcement of city code violations. Its work is complaint-driven.
Austin Community College - The city’s community college. ACC has campuses throughout the region.
Austin Community Landfill - This landfill, located near Highway 290 and Springdale Road is operated by the Waste Management global corporation. First opened in 1970, has long been the target of environmental activists who would like to see it shut down.
Austin Convention Center - This city department operates the downtown convention center and associated events.
Austin Creative Alliance - An advocacy and networking group for Austin's arts, cultural and creative communities.
Austin Democratic political clubs - The City of Austin plays host to a number of political clubs. Thanks to the general political leaning of the city, many of the well-known clubs are Democratic in policy alignment. The clubs vary in influence, but many offer coveted candidate endorsements.
Austin EMS Association - The union that represents Austin Travis County Emergency Medical Service employees for the benefit of the community and its members.
Austin Energy - As a municipally-owned electric utility, Austin Energy is a rarity in the largely deregulated State of Texas. It's annual budget clocks in at over $1 billion. The utility's annual direct transfer of a Council-determined percentage of its revenues offers the city a notable revenue stream.
Austin Energy 2010 Generation Plan - the utility's plan to move itself toward greener energy generation. It is set to be regularly reviewed and updates.
Austin Energy 2012 rate increase - 2012 marked the first time in roughly two decades that the city's municipally-owned electric utility asked for an increase in the rates it charges customers. The process took about a year to wind its way through deliberation, passage, and an expected challenge from ratepayers outside city limits who challenged the increase at the State's Public Utility Commission.
Austin Energy 2013 rate case - After Austin City Council members voted to raise Austin Energy rates for the first time in two decades, the increase was challenged by a group of AE ratepayers who live outside city limits. Indeed, out-of-city ratepayers are the only utility customers who have standing to take that action. The case was heard by Texas' Public Utility Commission. That body ultimately upheld much of the increase.
Austin Energy Customer Assistance Program - a utility-run program that offers discounts based on eligibility for low-income ratepayers, as well as those with "serious medical problems."
Austin Energy Utility Oversight Committee - The Austin City Council committee on Austin Energy was created in May 2013 to provide oversight of the city's electric utility. It's creation was marked by political maneuvering that ultimately resulted in a committee comprised of every member of the Austin City Council.
Austin Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce - The Austin LGBT Chamber was founded in 1997 with the mission "to achieve equality and inclusion by promoting economic vitality in our communities and strengthening LGBT and ally businesses" according to their website.
Austin Homeless Advisory Council - This group of about 15 members, each with lived experience with homelessness in Austin, is facilitated and administratively supported by DACC and works to provide input on programs and regulations aimed at those experiencing homelessness.
Austin Housing and Planning Department - A division of the city that includes Neighborhood Housing & Community Development (NHCD) and Planning & Zoning (PAZ). As the name suggests, the department oversees city planning, zoning as well as things like displacement prevention.
Austin Housing Finance Corporation - A city tool to create housing for low- to moderate-income families in Austin. The Board of Directors is made up of the entire City Council.
Austin Human Rights Commission - an advisory committee to members of the Austin City Council. It's purview includes "all matters involving racial, religious or ethnic discrimination."
Austin Humane Society - Austin's oldest no-kill shelter, which has been in operation since 1952.
Austin Independent Business Alliance - According to its mission statement, "The Austin independent Business Alliance is a 501(c)(6) membership organization whose mission is to promote and support locally owned businesses through advocacy, consumer education and services to (their) members."
Austin Interfaith - Austin Interfaith is a coalition of congregations, schools and unions who work together to address community issues. The group is non-partisan, and focuses on issues that affect families, working people and neighborhoods in the city. AI is part of the Industrial Areas Foundation, which is a national organization.
Austin Justice Coalition - A community organization that serves historically disenfranchised communities in Austin, focusing improving the lives of the Black, Brown and poor. Founded in 2015, the group has organized around issues of education, policing, community building and civic engagement.
Austin League of Women Voters - A nonpartisan group to inform voters. The league puts out voters guides for local elections.
Austin Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities - The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities advises the Austin City Council and City Manager on issues affecting persons with disabilities and ways to assist and enable residents with disabilities to participate in the social and economic life of the city.
Austin Municipal Court - This city department is the judicial branch of the City of Austin. The courts adjudicate Class C misdemeanor cases and has four divisions: Judicary, Court Operations, Support Services, and the Downtown Austin Community Court.
Austin Music Census - A detailed survey of musicians, music industry entrepreneurs and music industry operators about the state of music in Austin. The census revealed that musicians make much less money than the rest of Austin.
Austin Music Commission - The Austin Music Commission guides city practices on music development issues, including the SxSW music festival.
Austin Music People - According to the AMP website, "AMP is an unprecedented alliance that includes some of Austin’s most successful entrepreneurs, as well as many midsize and small music businesses, professional musicians and artists, and devoted fans of Austin’s music scene... The AMP coalition exists to strengthen the music sector for the ongoing benefit of the regional economy. Together, we are committed to making the economic development of the Austin live music industry a priority for our political, civic, and cultural leaders, and to connecting and empowering Austin’s live music community by providing powerful advocacy tools, participating in policy development, and representing live music interests in public and private forums."
Austin Mutual Aid - A grassroots organization that provides direct aid to those that need it by facilitating the distribution of food and other supplies.
Austin Neighborhoods Council - The ANC is an organization of representatives of neighborhood associations from around the City of Austin. It's members largely favor neighborhood direction of development policy.
Austin Oaks - A 31-acre Planned Unit Development at Spicewood Springs Road
and MoPac Expressway.
Austin Office of Sustainability - A branch of city government that works toward increasing the city’s sustainability and reducing the city’s carbon footprint.
Austin Public Health - The regional health authority tasked with protecting Travis County residents from infectious disease and other environmental threats.
Austin Rental Alliance - In 2011, when the city was first contemplating short-term rental legislation, the Austin Rental Alliance formed to fight thee possibility of a ban. According to their website, "the Austin Rental Alliance (ARA) is a non-profit trade association made up of property owners, property managers, management companies, and members of the Austin business community. The ARA works diligently with city, county, and state governments, the local community, and property owners to establish fair and effective regulations and tax compliance for property rentals of less than 30 days."
Austin Resource Recovery - Formerly Solid Waste Services. The department in charge of handling solid waste disposal, recycling, and curbside composting for the City of Austin.
Austin State Hospital - A psychiatric Facility which supplies “Adult psychiatric services, child and adolescent psychiatric services, forensic competency restoration services, specialty psychiatric services for people who are older or have an intellectual or developmental disability” [as stated by https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/mental-health-substance-use/state-hospitals/austin-state-hospital] for the Austin Community.
Austin Tenants Council -
The Austin Tenants' Council works to protect tenant rights and educate the community on fair housing. ATC has programs that focus housing discrimination, tenant-landlord information and education, housing repair and housing rehabilitation.
Austin Travis County Integral Care Board of Trustees - The Austin Travis County Integral Care Board of Trustees addresses needs of people who are affected by mental health disabilities, substance abuse problems, and developmental delays.
Austin Urban Forest Plan - Austin's urban forest plan was intended to provide a framework for managing the city's forests over the next 20 years. Adopted on March 6, 2014, by the Austin City Council.
Austin Water Resource Planning Task Force - This task force was established to provide guidance about increasing water scarcity in Central Texas. The Austin City Council adopted many of their recommendations on August 7, 2014.
Austin Water Utility - AWU is the municipal utility that provides water service for the City of Austin.
Austin Yellow Cab - one of three currently-approved cab franchises in the City of Austin. Austin Yellow cab is also a donor to the Capital of Texas Media Foundation, the parent organization of the Austin Monitor.
Austin Zero Waste Plan - First approved in December, 2011, the Austin Zero Waste Plan is the guiding document for the city's Resource Recovery department (formerly the Solid Waste Services Department). It includes a goal of 90 percent landfill diversion (what would statistically, according to the City, amount to zero waste) by 2040.
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport - Run by the city, the Austin–Bergstrom International Airport is located on the old site of Bergstrom Air Force Base it opened to to the public on May 23, 1999.
Austinites for Geographic Representation - This group led the ultimately-successful petition drive to bring the 10-1 single-member district system to Austin. That system, and the Independent Citizens' Redistricting Commission are currently in place.
Balcones Canyonland Conservation Plan - Established in 1996, the Balcones Canyonland Conservation Plan set rights and standards for incidental "take" of eight endangered species, jointly, for the City of Austin and Travis County.
Balcones Resources - A firm involved in local recycling contracts. They are a Charter Member of the Capital of Texas Media Foundation.
Barton Hills Neighborhood Association - Barton Hills is located in south Austin and encompasses part of ZIP code 78704. Barton Hills is bounded by South Lamar to the east, Barton Springs Road and Zilker Park to the north, Barton Creek to the west and the Capital of Texas Highway to the south.
Barton Springs - Barton Springs are four natural water springs that come from the Edwards Aquifer. The largest, Main Barton Spring is also known as Parthenia (or "the mother spring"), and it supplies water to Barton Springs Pool.
Barton Springs Bridge - This is where Barton Springs Road crosses Barton Creek. The concrete arch bridge was built in 1926, is beloved by many, and its historic significance has been the source of some debate.
Barton Springs Contributing Zone - The contributing zone of Barton Springs is the drainage or "catchment" area of the Edwards Aquifer that filters water to the recharge zone. It comprises about 5,400 square miles.
Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer Conservation District - An entity charged with oversight of a portion the Edwards Aquifer. Groundwater Conservation Districts are established through Texas State legislative approval, under a state law first approved in the 1950s. According to its web site, the BSEACD's charge is "to conserve, protect, and enhance the groundwater resources in its jurisdictional area."
Barton Springs Pool - This man-made, spring-fed recreational pool is rightly considered the spiritual center of Austin. Despite its intimidatingly cool waters, it remains a popular year-round swimming spot for Austinites of all ages.
Barton Springs Recharge Zone - a region from where groundwater funnels into Barton Springs. Includes land around Williamson, Bear, Little Bear, and Onion creeks.
Barton Springs Salamander - The Barton Springs Salamander is an endangered, lungless salamander that lives in Barton Springs. It was put on the List of Endangered Species in 1997.
Bike Austin - Bike Austin is a bicycle advocacy group that works to grow cycling in the community by removing barriers to cycling and encouraging the creation of infrastructure.
Bill Aleshire - A former Travis County judge, Aleshire has since been involved in a host of causes. These include the 2011 controversy over what Travis County Attorney David Escamilla eventually found to be Austin City Council violations of the Texas Open Meetings Act, as well as a law suit over City of Austin historic property tax exemptions.
Blackland Community Development Corporation - The Blackland Community Development Corporation (BCDC) has provided housing to low-income households since 1983 and hosts a neighborhood-created program for homeless families in Texas. Historically, funding for the housing comes from city-administered HUD and, in addition, neighborhood received 16 houses and eight vacant lots as a result of a 1992 agreement with the University of Texas. The boundaries of the Blackland Neighborhood are Comal Street on the west, Chestnut Avenue on the east, MLK Boulevard on the south, and Manor Road on the north.
Bond Oversight Committee - The city’s Bond Oversight Committee ensures the efficiency and accountability bond programs implementation.
Bouldin Creek Neighborhood Association - Covers the area, roughly, south of Lady Bird Lake, north of Oltorf Street, west of South Congress Avenue and east of South Lamar Boulevard.
Brian Rodgers - Brian Rodgers is a veteran activist, often critical of city tax and spending policies. In 2011, Rodgers kicked off what turned into a major fracas over Austin City Council violations of the Texas Open Meetings Act.
Brigid Shea - Currently the Precinct 2 Travis County Commissioner, Shea also co-founded Save Our Springs, is a former Austin City Council member and has been an advisor to LCRA, Seton, and the City of Austin in the past.
Brykerwoods Neighborhood Association - The Brykerwoods Neighborhood Association covers an area of about 747 lots. Though independent, it is an affiliate of the West Austin Neighborhood Group, and is located between the Shoal Creek greenbelt to the east and the Pemberton Heights neighborhood to the south.
Buda - Buda, Texas is located 13 miles southwest of Austin, and is one of Austin's largest (and fastest-growing) suburbs. It is located in Hays County.
Buda City Council - The city council for the City of Buda, southwest of Austin.
budget - Income and expenditure for a set period of time.
Building and Fire Code Board of Appeals - The city of Austin’s Building and Fire Code Board of Appeals reviews land development appeals. The board members hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions, or determinations made by the Building Official that relate to the application and interpretations of the Building Code and Fire Code.
Building Services Department - This city department is responsible for providing facilities planning, custodial services, repairs, security, and mail services, among other things.
Bull Creek - One of the tributaries to the Colorado River, starting in northwest Austin.
Burnet Road - One of the central corridors in North Central Austin, Burnet Road is most perhaps most charmingly known for its appearance in "Dazed and Confused," but has changed quite a bit since then.
Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) - Bus Rapid Transit is a high-capacity transit utilizing buses. Some systems have dedicated traffic lanes.
C3 Presents - C3 Presents is an Austin-based concert promotion, event production and artist management company that is perhaps best known for the Austin City Limits music festival. The company was founded by Chares Attal, Charlie Jones and Charlie Walker in 2007.
CAMPO - The Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization is the regional planning organization for Bastrop, Burnet, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, and Williamson Counties. Its membership is drawn from the elected officials of those municipalities, as well as various cities that fall within the region, including the City of Austin. CAMPO's focus is on regional transportation issues.
CAMPO Transportation Policy Board - CAMPO's governing body. It consists of elected representatives from the region's cities and counties.
CAPCOG - The Capital Area Council of Governments is a ten-county regional entity that handles varied issues from emergency communications to some measure of economic development. Member counties include Bastrop, Blanco, Burnet, Caldwell, Fayette, Hays, Lee, Llano, Travis, and Williamson.
Capitol View Corridor - Capitol View Corridors are established by a state overlay that limits construction downtown along corridors that protect views of the Texas State Capitol building
CapMetro - Capital Metro provides bus and MetroRail (Red Line) service for the Austin region. It's governed by a seven-member board appointed by various governing entities, including City Council members. CapMetro is also governed by a President and CEO.
Casa de Luz - This longtime Austin restaurant and community center founded on the principals of macrobiotics.
Castle Hill Local Historic District - According to the city's website, the Castle Hill Historic District consists of 116 contributing properties and 16 city landmarks. It is located just north of West Sixth Street and just west of North Lamar.
Catellus Development - The national Catellus Development Corporation is, most notably, the developer of the mixed-use Mueller development.
CCAG - The Central Corridor Advisory Group is the public body charged with overseeing outreach and advising City of Austin Mayor and Council on decisions relating to the November 2014 urban rail bond.
Cedar Park - Cedar Park is a major suburb of Austin, to the northwest. Though it is primarily located in Williamson County, a small bit of the city extends into Travis County.
Celia Israel - Longtime activist Celia Israel now serves in the Texas House of Representatives, representing the 50th district, as a Democrat.
Central Austin Community Development Corporation - In their own words, this non-profit group was "created to align public resources with citizen intent" and enhance "the livability, safety, and diversity of our community by building bridges of communication and respect among people."
Central Business District - A zoning designation that describes the business district of downtown Austin.
Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority - The governing arm of Central Texas transportation. The board of directors is appointed by the governor and the Travis and Williamson County Commissioners Court. 1.5 stars on Yelp.
certificate of appropriateness - This certification is required for proposed exterior and site changes to city historic landmarks and properties in local historic districts. Those changes must be approved by the Historic Landmark Commission.
Certificate of Occupancy - A certificate of occupancy certifies that a building and its use are in compliance with city code. The city has required that all residential buildings have a certificate of occupancy since 1931.
certificates of obligation (COs) - These bonds are issued directly by the borrowing entity. Though not subject to popular vote, their issuance can trigger tax increases. That, in turn, can trigger a petition--if the tax increase is beyond the year's rollback tax rate--and a potential bond election.
Channel 6 Austin - The former name of the City of Austin's television station, it became ATXN in 2014.
Cherrywood - Sometimes known as "French Place," this central Austin neighborhood is bounded by IH-35 to the west, Airport Blvd. to the east, Manor Rd to the south and Wilshire Blvd. to the north.
Chestnut Neighborhood Revitalization Corporation - The Chestnut Neighborhood Revitalization Corporation is a 501 c3 non profit community development corporation established in 2000 to address affordable housing.
Circuit Events Local Organizing Committee - The organizing committee for the Circuit of the Americas racetrack, focused primarily on facilitating the Formula 1 motor race.
Circuit of the Americas (CoTA) - CoTA opened in 2012, the Circuit of the Americas is a motor-racing circuit that has hosted Formula One, Moto GP and various concerts.
City Auditor Integrity Unit - The department within the City of Austin's Office of the City Auditor which is responsible for investigating, finding and preventing fraud, waste, and abuse in the city.
city budget - The city’s plan for expenditures based on income.
City of Austin Anti-lobbying ordinance - Enacted December 2011, this ordinance provides a no-contact period for firms bidding for City of Austin contracts.
City of Austin bag ban - This 2013 ordinance prohibited single-use plastic bags in the city.
City of Austin Board of Adjustment - The city's Board of Adjustment is a quasi-judicial body that decides on variances, special exceptions and can issue interpretations of code.
City of Austin Boards and Commissions Task Force - City Council formed this group to make recommendations about how the city should manage its boards and commissions through the shift from at-large to single-member representation.
City of Austin Building & Standards Commission - An Austin City Council advisory body that hears cases concerning alleged violations of city housing (and dangerous buildings) regulations.
City of Austin Climate Protection Plan - Austin Energy’s plan to make the city the lead in the fight against global warming. The plan’s goals included powering all city facilities with renewable energy by 2012 and making the city fleet carbon-neutral by 2020.
City of Austin Design Commission - The city's design commission recommends City Council on urban development, with a focus on excellence in design.
City of Austin Downtown Density Bonus - The downtown density bonus program was approved as part of the city's 2011 Downtown Austin Plan. The program is a way that developers can earn additional height and density by providing community benefits, most notably affordable housing or money towards affordable housing.
City of Austin Drainage Fee - The City of Austin assess a drainage fee per household, per month to City of Austin residents.
City of Austin drought stages - The Austin Water Utility has five stages of water conservation. The baseline is "conservation stage" which allows for watering two days per week. Stage 1 also allows for two days per week, Stages 2 and 3 allow for watering one day per week and Stage 4 prohibits all outdoor watering. Separate regulations apply to commercial businesses and schools.
City of Austin Environmental Commission - An advisory board to members of the Austin City Council. Its purview includes "all projects and programs which affect the quality of life for the citizens of Austin." In many cases, this includes development projects.
City of Austin Ethics Review Commission - The Ethics Review Commission is charged with review of, among other issues, ethics complaints leveled against City of Austin boards and commission members. They meet quarterly.
City of Austin Neighborhood Housing and Community Development Department - This city department provides housing and community development services for Austinites. To that end, they administer programs, provide grant services, and work with non-profit and agencies to provide housing for eligible residents. The department also provides small business development services.
City of Austin Office of the Police Monitor - An oversight group that, among other duties, reviews citizen complaints filed against the Austin Police Department and monitors APD internal affairs investigations.
City of Austin Planning Commission - This commission addresses issues of land use as assigned to it by Austin's City Code. These include the abilities "[t]o make and amend a master plan, recommend approval or disapproval of proposed zoning changes and control land subdivision within neighborhood planning areas and submit, annually, a list of recommended capital improvements." It has sovereign authority, or the right to make final decisions on certain cases.
City of Austin Rental Registration - A shorthand for programs maintained by the City of Austin's Code Compliance Department for "bad actor" landlords. The ordinance governing the policy was first passed in 2013.
City of Austin sustainability fund - A reserve fund initially set-up in 2001 to cover the city's greening efforts, as well as a subset of economic issues.
City of Austin Urban Renewal Board - The body charged with oversight of, according to its web site, "the implementation and compliance of approved Urban Renewal Plans that are adopted by the Austin City Council."
City of Austin Water and Wastewater Commission - Austin City Council advisory body; charged with oversight of "the policies and resources relating to the Water and Wastewater Utility of the City of Austin."
City of Austin Zero Waste Advisory Commission - An Austin City Council advisory commission. Its members are charged to "[r]eview and analyze the policies and resources relating to solid waste management in the city and advise council on solid waste management policies and resources." Formerly the Solid Waste Advisory Commission.
City of Austin Zoning and Platting Commission - The City of Austin's Zoning and Platting Commission addresses issues of land use as assigned to it by Austin's City Code. It has sovereign authority, or the right to make final decisions on certain cases.
civil service - Here, referring to the set of employment rules and processes applicable to most City of Austin employees.
Clarksville - Founded by freedman Charles Clark in 1871, Clarkville is the oldest freedomtown west of the Mississippi. It was inducted into the National Register of Historic Places in 1976 and is part of the Old West Austin Historic District. Clarksville is located just west of downtown Austin, and just east of MoPac.
Colorado River - The 862-mile long Colorado River (of Texas) runs right through the middle of Austin, where it has been dammed to form Lady Bird Lake (once known as "Town Lake" and Lake Austin.
Commission for Women - The city’s Commission for Women recommends programs to alleviate “inequities that may confront women in social, economic and vocational pursuits.”
Commission on Immigrant Affairs - The Commission on Immigrant Affairs advises the Austin City Council on issues regarding education, health and the demographic makeup of the immigrant community.
Commission on Seniors - The Commission on Seniors is an advisory board for the Austin City Council on quality of life issues for senior citizens.
Commission on Veterans Affairs - The city’s Commission on Veterans Affairs evaluates and recommends programs concerning the wellbeing of military veterans and acts as a “central clearinghouse” for information on veterans within the community.
Communications and Public Information - This city department provides information to the media, engages with stakeholders in the community, and promotes city projects and initiatives.
community benefit charge - A line item in an Austin Energy bill. Through it, the utility says it "recovers certain costs incurred by the utility as a benefit to Austin Energy’s service area customers and the greater community."
Congress Avenue - Congress Avenue is the central-most road in downtown Austin. It runs from the Texas State Capitol to Lady Bird Lake, where it turns into South Congress Avenue. It is also a historic district first listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.
consent decree - This refers to a document used by the U.S. Department of Justice to govern Federal oversight of the City of Austin's fire department hiring practices.
Contract Management - This city department administers the procurement of services for the city and for capital improvements.
controlled burn - An intentionally set fire used as a component of forest management and grassland ecology.
Corix - A private Canadian utility firm. Gained local attention when it was selected in 2012 as the winning bidder for a series of small municipal utilities put up for sale by the Lower Colorado River Authority.
Council-Manager government - Austin has a council-manager form of government. Under this system the elected city council is responsible for the legislative portion of our government. The city council-appointed city manager carries hires staff and is responsible for implementation of city ordinances.
County Judge Sam Biscoe - Sam Biscoe served as the first African-American Travis County Judge for 16 years before retiring in 2014. Prior to his election as Judge, Biscoe was the Precinct One Travis County Commissioner for nine years.
Crestview - Crestview is a north central Austin neighborhood bounded by Wooten and West Anderson Lane to the north, Allandale and Burnet Road to the west, Brentwood and Justin Lane to the south and the Highland neighborhood and North Lamar Boulevard to the east.
critical environmental feature - These are features that are of critical importance to the protection of environmental resources. They include things like bluffs, canyon rimrocks, caves, faults and fractures. seeps, sinkholes, springs, and wetlands.
Critical Water Quality Zone - The designation for certain types of land aimed at protecting the City of Austin's drinking water supply.
CTRMA - The Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority. A governmental agency created, according to its web site, in 2002 to "improve the transportation system in Williamson and Travis counties." The site also notes that the agency's "mission is to implement innovative, multi-modal transportation solutions that reduce congestion and create transportation choices that enhance quality of life and economic vitality." In addition to other responsibilities, the agency oversees a set of toll roads in the region.
Curbside Organics Collection - Austinese for curbside composting collection. A pilot program was established in late 2012. It continues to expand. At the end of the program, Austin Resource Recovery staff are set to present findings to Council. That could trigger a future program.
CURE zoning - Central Urban Redevelopment zoning is a zoning district in downtown Austin.
Dabney-Horne House - This house was built in 1883. Formerly occupied in the late 19th-Century by University of Texas professor Robert Dabney. Zoned historic.
Dan Flynn - Texas State Rep. Dan Flynn is a Republican elected in 2003 to the Texas House of Representatives, District 2.
Daryl Slusher - A former journalist and Austin City Council Member. Now Assistant Director at the Austin Water Utility.
Dave Sullivan - A longtime active citizen participant in various city processes. Former chair of the City of Austin's Planning Commission; current chair of the City's Zero Waste Advisory Commission.
Decker Lake - Also known as Walter E. Long lake, Decker Lake is actually a power plant cooling reservoir managed by the city of Austin and located in East Austin.
Deece Eckstein - The current Intergovernmental Relations Coordinator for Travis County; former advisor to Gov. Anne Richards, and Chief of Staff for State Senator Rodney Ellis, among other notable career highlights. Deece is a donor to the Capital of Texas Media Foundation.
Desired Development Zone - Austin created the Desired Development Zone in 1998, in order to encourage "smart growth" and discourage sprawl through incentives like reduced permit fees and increased city spending on needed infrastructure.
District 1 - District 1 is one of the largest districts by area created by the commission, being bounded by Interstate 35, bumps up against Pflugerville on the north, SH 130 on the east and reaches down into the eastern parts of downtown and the University of Texas campus. It includes a variety of neighborhoods, such as Copperfield, Harris Branch, University Hills, Colony Park and Rosewood. It also contains Decker Lake Park and some of the city’s extraterritorial jurisdiction.
District 10 - The district is roughly bounded by MoPac Boulevard on east, Lake Austin on the south, U.S. 183 on the north, and the boundary with District 6 on the west. It is a large district, at about 43 square miles.
District 2 - District 2 is primarily south and east of Ben White Boulevard and east of Interstate 35. Its two major landmarks are Austin Bergstrom International Airport and the Circuit of the America’s Formula 1 race track. Its eastern edge blends into the southeast portions of Travis County.
District 3 - District 3 brings together three distinct neighborhoods – Central East Austin, Riverside and Far South Austin.
District 4 - District 4 is bordered by Lamar Boulevard and US 183 on the west, by Cameron Road on the east, 51st Street on the south and Braker Lane on the north.
District 5 - District 5 is built along South Lamar Boulevard, further south along Westgate Boulevard. Even further south, it takes a right turn and picks up the South Park area on the far south edge of town and wanders east across I-35 to the well-to-do Onion Creek Country Club area.
District 6 - District 6 covers the far northwest parts of the city, including the Anderson Mill, River Place, Avery Ranch, Riata and Robinson Ranch neighborhoods. The area is bisected east to west by SH 45/RM 620 and north-south by US 183 and RM 2222. The southern end of the district hugs neighborhoods along Lake Austin and the south shore of Lake Travis.
District 7 - District 7 encompasses the Crestview, Allandale and Brentwood neighborhoods on the south, bounded by MoPac Boulevard and U.S. 183, and the Gracywoods, Milwood and Preston Oaks neighborhoods, sitting between Braker Lane on the south and Wells Branch Parkway on the north. Connecting the two is the Kramer Lane industrial area, including the Domain and Gateway commercial developments.
District 8 - District 8 contains three distinct neighborhoods, Oak Hill, Circle C and Travis Country. The district is bounded on the east by Brodie Lane, on the south by the Travis-Hays county line, on the north by Bee Cave road and on the west by the winding Austin city limits line. It also has the city’s biggest and most infamous traffic bottleneck – the Oak Hill Y, the convergence of US 290 and SH 71, squeezing traffic heading to and from South MoPac Boulevard and out into the Hill Country.
District 9 - District 9, which is only 12 square miles in size, is bordered by MoPac and Lamar boulevards on the west, Manor Road and Interstate 35 on the east, Oltorf Street on the south and 51st Street on the north. District 9 includes most of downtown and the University of Texas campus but does not include the Capitol or most of the state office complex. Residential neighborhoods include Bouldin and Travis heights to the south, Clarksville and Hyde Park on the north and Cherrywood and Mueller on the east.
District Attorney - The District Attorney’s office prosecutes felony and juvenile offenders in Travis County. The current District Attorney is Rosemary Lehmberg.
Dolores Ortega Carter - The current Travis County Treasurer. First elected to that position in 1987.
Don Zimmerman - Former Austin City Council Member for District 6 (2014-2016)
Donna Campbell - State Senator Donna Campbell is a Republican elected in 2012 to the Texas Senate in District 25. She is a doctor who practices emergency medicine.
Donna Howard - Texas State Rep. Donna Howard is a Democrat who was elected in 2006 to serve District 48 in the Texas House of Representatives.
Dove Springs - Dove Springs is a southeast neighborhood in Austin bordered, roughly, by William Cannon, Ben White, Dove Springs District Park, and IH-35.
Downtown Austin Alliance - A nonprofit, membership-based organization focused, according to its website, on "preserving and enhancing the value and vitality of downtown Austin."
Downtown Austin Neighborhoods Association - The neighborhood association that represents a portion of downtown Austin that includes an area bounded by Martin Luther King Jr Blvd to the north, Lamar Boulevard to the west, I35 to the east, and Lady Bird Lake to the south.
Downtown Austin Plan - The Downtown Austin Plan supports dense housing, multi-modal transportation, green space and businesses.
Downtown Commission - The Downtown Commission serves as a steward for the Downtown Austin Plan and advises the Austin City Council on policies and projects that impact downtown.
Early Childhood Council - The city’s Early Childhood Council issues recommendations to City Council concerning creation, development and implementation of programs for young children.
East Austin - East Austin is the quadrant of Austin that, generally speaking, is east of IH-35.
East Riverside Corridor Regulating Plan - According to the city website, "The East Riverside Corridor (ERC) Regulating Plan was adopted by City Council on May 9, 2013. The ERC Regulating Plan lays out the rules that will guide new development and redevelopment to help realize the vision of making East Riverside a more vibrant, functional and beautiful environment... (Its) regulations address the physical relationship between development and adjacent properties, streets, neighborhoods, and the natural environment in order to implement the vision of an urban mixed-use neighborhood that supports current and future transit options."
ECHO - The Ending Community Homelessness Coalition (ECHO) is, according to its website, "a collaborative funding and planning nonprofit that is fiercely committed to ending homelessness in Austin, TX." The groups brings together resources to serve the city's homeless population and works with agencies to bring together leaders, volunteers and other nonprofits to help the cause.
economic development - This is short for fiscal growth experienced by the City of Austin or businesses in and around the region.
Economic Development Department - This city department heads up business recruitment, urban regeneration, small business development, arts, and music for the city.
Economic Development Incentives - This is shorthand for a series of programs designed to lure business to a given region. In Austin, the program tends to take some form of tax-based incentives. These can include rebates or grants that are often tied to a set of stipulations. These tend to include local hiring goals, same-sex partner benefits, or, more recently, wage floors for construction workers who build facilities for the incoming organizations.
Economic Prosperity Commission - According to the city website, City Council created the Economic Prosperity Commission "to advise the council on matters related to construction and job creation. The Commission should include representatives from trade and business associations and chambers of commerce."
Eddie Rodriguez - Texas State Rep. Eddie Rodriguez is a Democrat who was first elected in 2003 as the District 51 representative to the Texas House of Representatives.
Electro Purification - A Houston-based water treatment solution company that plans to pump more than 2 million gallons of water per day from Hays County to Buda and Kyle.
Environmental Impact Statement - A document prepared for the Federal government that, according to the Federal Highway Administration's web site, that represents "a full disclosure document that details the process through which a transportation project was developed, includes consideration of a range of reasonable alternatives, analyzes the potential impacts resulting from the alternatives, and demonstrates compliance with other applicable environmental laws and executive orders."
environmental variances - Construction variances granted by any one of several City of Austin authorities that allows developers to deviate from proscribed environmental regulations.
ERCOT - Electric Reliability Council of Texas. The state-level organization that organizes utilities throughout the state. According to its web site, ERCOT, "manages the flow of electric power to 24 million Texas customers - representing 85 percent of the state's electric load."
extra-territorial jurisdiction (ETJ) - The unincorporated land within the five miles of the city limits that is not within the city limits or ETJ of another city. Austin is the only municipality authorized to annex land within its ETJ.
fair housing - Shorthand for a series of federal laws designed to, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, establish "policies that make sure all Americans have equal access to the housing of their choice."
Fayette Power Plant - The coal-fired power plant co-owned by the City of Austin and the Lower Colorado River Authority.
Federal Secure Communities program - A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement program set-up to screen arrestees for immigration violations. The program has become contentious in the Austin region.
fee waivers - Municipal costs waived by a jurisdiction, often in favor of promised fiscal return.
Fleet Services - This city department manages the city's vehicles.
Flint Ridge Cave - A geologic feature that may play host to local "species of concern"; animals whose existence is threatened in one way or another. The feature is located along the proposed route of SH45SW.
Floodplain variance - A deviation from normal floodplain construction restrictions granted by any number of municipal entities.
fluoride - Flouride is a naturally-occurring mineral that protects teeth from decay. It has been added to Austin's water supply since February 2, 1973.
Foundation Communities - Austin-based nonprofit focused on affordable housing issues and construction.
FourT Realty - FourT Realty is a local development firm. Principals include Tom Terkel and daughter Taylor Terkel. FourT Realty is a donor to the Capital of Texas Media Foundation, parent organization of the Austin Monitor.
FTA New Starts - A Federal program focused, according to the Federal Transit Administration's web site, "funding major transit capital investments, including rapid rail, light rail, bus rapid transit, commuter rail, and ferries." Program was updated through the Moving Ahead For Progress in the 21st Century Act in 2012.
Fusion Centers - Shorthand for regionally-located intelligence-gathering facilities designed to gather and disseminate law enforcement information for and to local, state, and federal entities.
Garza Tract - In the 1980s, Eli Garza donated and sold 22 acres of land to TxDot which were then used for MoPac and William Cannon Drive. In 1992, he platted most of the rest of the property, and since then the tract has been in and out of City Council and court over grandfathering issues.
Gerald Daugherty - Current Travis County Pct. 3 Commissioner. Daugherty was unseated in 2008 by Karen Huber. He returned the favor in 2013, when he ran on a platform nearly entirely focused on a promise to build the controversial SH45 Southwest road project.
Graves Dougherty Hearon & Moody - Local law firm with practice areas that include Real Estate issues. GDHM is a donor to the parent organization of the Austin Monitor.
Great Streets - A development project focused on remodeling streets for vehicle, pedestrian and bike use.
Greater Austin Black Chamber - Created in 1982, the Greater Austin Black Chamber was established "to bring awareness to the enormous amount of dollars generated from black consumers in the form of travel and tourism within the goal of providing economic prosperity for African-American businesses and the general Greater Austin region," according to its website. Today, it promotes the development and expansion of African American businesses in the city.
Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce - The Austin Chamber of Commerce is a private, membership-driven organization that includes 3,000 businesses, civic organizations, educational institutions, and individuals. According to the chamber's website, "Its mission is to provide leadership that facilitates the creation of a prosperous regional economy and effective advocacy for its members."
Greg Casar - United States Congress representative for Texas's 35th congressional district since 2023 and former Austin City Council member for District 4
Guadalupe Neighborhood Development Corporation - Guadalupe Neighborhood Development Corporation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that is an affordable housing provider to families from East Austin, established in 1981.
Halloween Flood - A devastating flash flood that struck the Onion Creek area on October 31, 2013. At least five residents were killed.
Hancock Neighborhood Association - The Hancock Neighborhood comprises the area bounded by 45th Street on the north, 32nd Street on the south, Duval Street on the west, and Interstate Highway 35 on the east.
Hays County - Hays County, adjacent southwest to Travis County, has a total area of 680 square miles. It contains Buda, Dripping Springs, Kyle, Wimberley and San Marcos, among other communities.
HB 5 - The Texas Legislature bill that moved high school graduation requirements from a 4x4 system to a 22-credit Foundation program.
Health and Human Services Department - This city department promotes community health through programs like WIC, maternal and child health, birth and death certificates, restaurant inspections, and grants administration.
Heritage Neighborhood Association - The Heritage Neighborhood comprises the area bounded by 38th Street on the north, Guadalupe Street on the east, North Lamar on the west, and 29th Street on the south.
Highland Lakes - The Texas Highland Lakes are a chain of six lakes formed by dams on the lower Colorado River. Managed by the Lower Colorado River Authority the lakes are: Lake Buchanan, Inks Lake, lake LBJ, Lake Marble Falls, Lake Travis and Lake Austin.
Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission - The Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission recommends programs and policies to the Austin City Council with the goal of alleviating economic and social inequities that confront Hispanics and Latinos in the community.
Historic Landmark Commission - The city’s Historic Landmark Commission promotes historic preservation of buildings and structures. The commission also reviews applications and permits for historic zoning and historic grants.
historic preservation - Official actions of a municipality such as the City of Austin taken to preserve structures with their jurisdiction. Preservation is often accompanied by a property tax exemption.
Homestead Exemption - A reduction on a home’s taxable value in order to protect the home’s value.
Homestead Preservation District - Legislation passed in 2005 created Homestead Preservation Districts. In order to qualify to become an HPD, the poverty rate for the area must be twice the city’s poverty rate.
Hotel Occupancy Tax - A tax on the rental of a room in a hotel or other rental properties (including apartments) that cost 6 percent of the cost of a room.
Housing Authority of the City of Austin - Austin’s Housing Authority works to provide affordable housing to low-income families. The public agency also is tasked with assisting residents to become economically self-sufficient.
Husch Blackwell - The legal firm formerly Brown-McCaroll, a locally-based practice, before that entity was purchased by the national Husch-Blackwell. Practice areas include Real Estate and Development.
Hyde Park Neighborhood Association - Hyde Park is defined by West 38 Street to the south, West 51 Street to the north, Duval Street to the east, and Guadalupe Street to the west. Hyde Park contains two historic districts, the Hyde Park Historic District and the Shadow Lawn Historic District, and several other individual historic buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Incidental Take Permit - A permit issued under the Endangered Species Act that are required when private entities engage in projects that might result in the take of endangered or threatened species.
Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission - The fourteen-member group charged with drawing Austin's ten geographically based districts. Established in 2013, and inactive until reconvened by city charter
Judge Amy Clark Meachum - Judge Amy Clark Meachum is the presiding judge of the 201st Civil District Court. She is an elected official, up for reelection in November 2014.
Judge Sarah Eckhardt - Eckhardt was elected Travis County Judge in November 2014, after previously serving as the Precinct 2 County Commissioner.
Judges Hill Neighborhood Association - Judges Hill is located north of the central business district of downtown Austin, bordered by Rio Grande Street to the east, 15th Street to the south, Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd to the north and Lamar Blvd to the west.
Judith Zaffirini - State Senator Judith Zaffirini is a Democrat in the Texas State Senate who was first elected in 1987.
Kirk Watson - Former State Senator Kirk Watson represented District 14 and was first elected to the Texas Senate in 2006, as a Democrat. He served as mayor of Austin from 1997 to 2001.
KUT - Austin's local National Public Radio station
Kyle - Kyle, Texas is located in Hays County about 20 miles south of downtown Austin. It is one of the fastest growing cities in Texas.
Kyle City Council - The City Council for the City of Kyle, south of Austin.
Lake Austin - Lake Austin is a water reservoir on the Colorado River, and the source of Austin's drinking water. It was created by the 1939 construction of the Tom Miller Dam and is managed by the Lower Colorado River Authority.
Lake Austin Overlay - The Lake Austin Overlay includes land located within 1000 feet of Lake Austin. Properties within the overlay are subject to development and environmental regulations intended to protect the city's drinking water supply.
Lake Austin Task Force - The Lake Austin Task Force, now disbanded, recommends regulations and enforcement of regulations to promote, preserve and protect Lake Austin. The group was dissolved after the completion of their Lake Austin Task Force recommendations, which were presented to City Council.
Laura Pressley - Among other things, Laura Pressley ran for the District 4 seat of City Council in 2014. After losing that election, Pressley sued, launching a larger battle against electronic voting that persisted well after the election concluded.
Living Wage - The hourly rate an individual must earn to pay for themselves or their family. In Travis County, the living wage for one adult would be $10.97, according to the MIT living wage calculator.
lobbying - Lobbying, in short, occurs when someone attempts to influence the decisions of government officials.
local historic district - Geographic areas with a significant concentration of buildings united by their history and architecture.
Local Solar Advisory Committee - A local committee established to develop a plan to optimally utilize the city’s solar resources.
Lone Star Rail - A planned regional passenger train from San Marcos to Austin.
Lower Colorado River Authority - The quasi-governmental organization charged with, among other key items, regulating water policy for the Lower Colorado River--the body of water that runs through the heart of Austin. The creation of the organization in 1934--and the eventual series of dams it built--helped send electricity to portions of the Texas Hill Country.
Managed Growth Agreements - A mechanism to extend project period deadlines for large-scale projects or planned projects within a planned development center.
Margaret Gómez - Margaret Gómez has served as the Precinct Four Travis County Commissioner since 1995, and was the first Mexican-American elected to the position.
McMansion Ordinance (subchapter F) - In 2006, Austin implemented the McMansion Ordinance in an attempt to limit the mass of new construction in some areas of the city. The ordinance does so by limiting things like floor-to-area ratio and impervious cover, as well as establishing design standards for larger homes.
Memorial weekend floods - Central Texas' 2015 Memorial Weekend Floods swept through Austin on the night of May 24. More than 12 inches of rain fell in the watershed of the Blanco River, causing flash flooding that was most severe in Wimberley where up to 400 homes were destroyed, and San Marcos where one person was killed. At least 1,200 people in Central Texas were left homeless due to flooding.
Mike Martinez - Former Austin City Council member. First elected in 2006, Martinez served as Mayor Pro Tem from 2009 until 2011. He ran for Austin Mayor as part of the November 2014 citywide elections.
Montopolis - An East Austin neighborhood bounded by Grove Street to the west, Texas State Highway 71 to the south and the Southeast Austin neighborhood and U.S. Route 183 to the east. It is located in District 3.
MoPac - Texas State Highway Loop 1 is also known as "MoPac" after the Missouri Pacific Railroad it was built on. The scenic highway runs from the beginning of the State Highway 45 to US 183.
Mountain City - This city is in Hays County, between Kyle and Buda, about 20 miles southwest of Downtown Austin.
Municipal Utility Districts - A special-purpose district that provides public utilities. There are different MUDS for different neighborhoods.
Music and Entertainment Division - A department of the city’s economic development division geared toward growing the music and entertainment industry.
Neighborhood Conservation Combining District - Preserves and protects older neighborhoods by allowing modifications to applicable development regulations in accordance with a neighborhood plan while allowing for controlled growth to occur. An NCC District clearly defines boundaries separating residential uses from commercial uses, and sets standards for redevelopment that is compatible with the unique character of the neighborhood.
neighborhood planning contact team - A neighborhood plan contact team is a group of individuals designated to be the stewards or advocates of their adopted neighborhood plan. They work with city staff towards the implementation of the plan recommendations, review and initiate plan amendments, serve as community points of contact, and work on behalf of other neighborhood stakeholders.
Nelson Linder - Linder has served as President of the Austin, Texas Branch of the NAACP since 2000.
No-Kill - A policy that reserves euthanasia only for terminally ill or dangerous animals. Austin has worked to be a No-Kill City since 2010.
North Austin - North Austin, roughly, is the area of the city north of Downtown Austin, between MoPac and IH-35.
North University Neighborhood Association - The North University Neighborhood Association has boundaries that are 38th Street to the North, 27th Street to the South, Duval Street to the East, and Guadalupe Street to the West.
Northwest Austin Coalition - Formed during Austin's first districting, NWAC "was formed in July 2013 after a series of meetings with neighborhood leaders in Northwest Austin. Those initial meetings included leaders from Anderson Mill, Millwood, Angus Valley, Northwest Austin Civic Assoc., Great Hills, and Southwest Williamson County. Collaborating with our friends from North Austin (NACN), the leaders decided to expand the meetings to include community leaders from all different types of groups. The first meeting of this newly-expanded coalition was August 5th, 2013," according to its website.
November 2014 Transportation Bond - Austin City Council members approved a $1 billion mobility bond question for the city's November 2014 elections on Aug. 7, 2014. In it, the city asks for $600 million in funding for a new urban rail system and promised to find an additional $400 million for major road improvements.
Office of Real Estate Services - This city department manages acquisitions and leasing of property for the city government. They also oversee easement releases, street and alley vacations and the sale and lease of city property to others.
Office of the Austin City Clerk - This city department provides access to city documents, ensuring compliance with records-retention laws, and facilitating City Council's legislative process.
Office of the City Auditor - This city department is created by the city's charter in order to establish and ensure "accountability transparency, and a culture of continuous improvement in city operations."
Officer:Citizen Ratio - A metric used to measure the number of police officers relative to the population of a given municipality. In Austin, the current ratio is two officers per every thousand residents. Council Member Bill Spelman, an academic with much experience in studying public safety, regularly questions the efficacy of the figure.
Old Judges Hill - This neighborhood is a proposed Local Historic District near West Ave and 15th Street, south of Martin Luther King Boulevard.
Old West Austin - This historic district is composed of Old Enfield, Pemberton Heights, and Bryker Woods. It borders the Clarksville Historic District and the West Line Historic District to the south. In 2003, the three neighborhoods were added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Onion Creek - Austin's Onion Creek originates in Hays County and runs into the Colorado River.
Onion Creek floodplain - The Onion Creek floodplain includes portions of southeast Austin and Travis County. Homeowners in the area suffered a major catastrophe in late October, 2013 when the region suffered massive flooding. Both the City of Austin and Travis County are engaged in efforts to buyout homeowners.
open carry - Since January 1, 2016, Texans have been permitted to openly carry holstered handguns, except where explicitly prohibited.
Operation Safe Assistance - A narcotics sting operation that resulted in the issuance of more than 40 arrest warrants in 2013.
Original West Austin Neighborhood Association - The Old West Austin neighborhood is bounded by Mopac Expressway on the west, Enfield Road on the north, Lamar Boulevard on the east, and Town Lake on the south. It includes Clarksville, which is a national historic district.
Palm School - Currently the home of the Travis County Health and Human Services and Veteran Services building, the Palm School opened as one of the first elementary schools in 1892, and operated as an elementary school for 84 years. It is located at Cesar Chavez and IH-35.
Parks and Recreation Board - The city’s Parks and Recreation Board members deal with the acquisition, development, improvement, and maintenance of Austin’s parks and playgrounds.
Paul Cruz - Cruz was appointed superintendent of AISD in 2015.
Paul Workman - Texas State Rep. Paul Workman is a Republican first elected in to the Texas House of Representatives in 2011. He represents District 47.
Pease Park - Pease Park is a public park in Central Austin, located just west of North Lamar Boulevard along Shoal Creek. It was deeded to the citizens of Austin by Governor & Mrs. Pease in 1875.
Planned Unit Development - A zoning classification designated by the city to allow greater flexibility for projects within its boundaries.
Planning and Development Review - The Planning and Development Review Department is responsible for Austin's city planning, preservation, and design. The department also provides development review and inspection services for the city.
Preservation Austin - This organization was founded in 1953 in order to protect the architectural and cultural legacy of Austin, and works with city, state, and national organizations and governmental bodies to do just that.
Pressler Street Extension - The proposed extension of Pressler Street will extend the now-dead-end across existing railroad tracks and the Lamar Beach public parkland.
prevailing wage - The hourly wage paid in the largest city in each county.
Project Connect - This project brought together a series of Central Texas transportation agencies looking to build high-capacity transit options in the region in the wake of CAMPO's 2035 regional transportation plan. The City of Austin's much-discussed 2014 Urban Rail plan was part of Project Connect's efforts.
Project Duration Ordinance - A repealed ordinance that dictated how long a project would remain valid after filing an initial application.
property tax appraisal - The value of property as determined for use in assessing area property taxes.
property tax exemptions - Generally, discounts on homeowners' property tax bills. This can refer to elective such elective status as historic discounts and the broad discount offered by Travis County and other entities for a property owner's homestead. That exemption, called the Homestead Exemption, is offered for homeowners who occupy the home in question.
Public Improvement District - A special tax area. Property owners in the area pay a supplemental tax that goes toward extended city services in the area.
Public Order Initiative - An APD plan to reduce violent crime downtown that was largely criticized for targeting the homeless.
Public Safety Commission - The Public Safety Commission is a City Council advisory body charged with oversight of budgetary and policy matters concerning public safety These include matters related to the Austin Police Department, the Austin Fire Department, and the Austin/Travis County Emergency Medical Services Department."
Public Works Department - This city department oversees major capital improvement projects; maintains the city's trails, roadways, and bridges; and promotes safe travel on city thoroughfares.
Rainey Street - Once a quiet residential street, Rainey Street quickly transformed once the historic district was incorporate into the Central Business District in 2004. Currently, the street remains in transition as the bars in the original homes there make way for larger development projects.
Real Estate Council of Austin - 501(c)6 for "more than 1,700 commercial real estate professionals representing the top leaders in the Central Texas business community." RECA is a donor to the Capital of Texas Media Foundation, the parent of the Austin Monitor.
Red River Cultural District - Established in 2013, the Red River Cultural District runs from Sixth Street to Tenth Street and is a cultural district with the Texas Commission for the Arts. Its creation was intended to help preserve the live music venues located within the district.
Republic Services - Founded in 1996, Republic Services, Inc. is the second largest non-hazardous solid waste management company in the country.
Residential Design and Compatibility Commission - The city’s Residential Design and Compatibility Commission is tasked with making determinations on modification requests to certain building and structure design standards.
Resource Management Commission - A commission that reviews and advises the city council on renewable energy technologies.
restrictive covenant - Binding legal obligations written into the deed of a property.
RideScout - A mobile app launched in Austin that shows real-time options for various modes of transportation.
Ridesharing - This term is generally employed to refer to the activities of such companies as Lyft and Uber.
Ridesharing Works for Austin - Ridesharing Works for Austin is a Political Action Committee formed to deal with the city's transportation network company laws. The group led the petition drive to establish regulations based on an earlier ordinance and circumvent the current City Council's proposed regulations.
Ridgetop Neighborhood Association - The Ridgetop neighborhood is bounded by IH-35 to the East, Koenig Lane/US Hwy. 290 to the North, and 45th Street to the South with Red River and Airport Blvd. to the West. This corridor along Airport Blvd. is an area known throughout the city simply as “Ridgetop".
Ron Davis - Precinct One Travis County Commissioner Ron Davis announced that he would not seek reelection during the 2016 race for his seat. He was first elected in 1998.
Ronnie Earle Building - The Travis County District Attorney building named for Ronald Earle, who was the district attorney for eight terms.
Rundberg - The Rundberg area is a northeast corridor in Austin that is the subject of an ongoing revitalization project known as "Restore Rundberg." It encompasses the North Austin Civic Association (NACA) the North Lamar Combined neighborhood (Georgian Acres/North Lamar) and the Heritage Hills/Windsor Hills neighborhood.
Save Barton Creek Association - According to their mission statement, "Save Barton Creek Association is a nonprofit citizen group working to protect and conserve the six watersheds of the Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer (Barton, Bear, Little Bear, Onion, Slaughter and Williamson). SBCA incorporated in September 1979 in response to community concerns about the impact of urbanization on Barton Creek and Barton Springs. SBCA has been one of the lead conservation organizations in Austin working to ensure that future generations may enjoy the cool, clean waters of Barton Springs."
Save Our Springs Alliance (SOS) - An advocacy organization. According to its web site, Save Our Springs "works to protect the Edwards Aquifer, its springs and contributing streams, and the natural and cultural heritage of the Hill Country region and its watersheds, with special emphasis on Barton Springs."
Saxet Gun Show - Formerly held at the Travis County Expo Center, the Saxet Gun Show found a new location after the restrictions proposed by Travis County officials proved too much for show organizers.
Securus Technologies - Securus Technologies is Dallas-based for-profit prison technology company that provided video conferencing for inmates in Travis County.
Seton - Central Texas Healthcare firm. Seton has donated to the Capital of Texas Media Foundation.
Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas - Currently under construction, the Dell Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas is a new teaching hospital in downtown Austin. It will be the primary teaching hospital for Dell Medical School at The University of Texas at Austin.
SH45SW - A controversial road project that supporters argue would ease traffic traveling through areas of far Southwest Travis and far Southeastern Hays County. Opponents argue that the environmental impact of the effort, which runs close to sensitive land, is not worth that risk. The debate over the issue goes back as far as the mid-1980s.
Sheri Gallo - Austin City Council member who represents District 10
Sheriff Greg Hamilton - Travis County Sheriff Greg Hamilton was first elected to his position in 2004.
Sheryl Cole - A former Austin City Council Member, first elected in 2006. She was the first female African-American member of the body, Cole also served as Mayor Pro Tem.
Shudde Fath - Activist Shudde Fath has been engaged with city politics since the 1970s and has served on the Electric Utility Commission since its inception as a consumer advocate.
South Lamar - A major thoroughfare in South Austin, South Lamar is a primary route to and from downtown, as well as one of the city's main corridors.
South Lamar Neighborhood Association - Founded in January 2001, SLNA represents the area bounded by Oltorf on the north, the Missouri-Pacific Railroad on the east, Ben White Boulevard on the south, and South Lamar and Manchaca Roads on the west.
South River City Citizens Neighborhood Association - SRCC represents the neighborhood in South Austin bounded by Lady Bird Lake on the north, Ben White Blvd. on the south, Congress Avenue to the west, and Parker/ IH35 to the east.
special election - These elections are held to fill political offices that have become vacant between general elections.
special exception - Instead of a variance, the city allows for amnesty for some minor code violations of the Land Development Code, if they have been in existence before adoption of the current zoning code on March 1, 1986. These special exceptions are granted by the Board of Adjustment.
stealth dorm - The pejorative nickname for buildings constructed in area neighborhoods to house multiple students, despite being zoned as single-family residences.
Susana Almanza - Activist Susana Almanza is the director and founder of PODER (People Organized in the Defense of Earth and her Resources) and the president of the Montopolis Neighborhood Association.
Sustainable Food Policy Board - The Sustainable Food Policy Board is an advisory body to both the Austin City Council and the Travis County Commissioners Court charged with coordinating governmental bodies, non-profit organizations and food and farming businesses to “improve the availability of safe, nutritious, locally and sustainably-grown food at reasonable prices for residents within Travis County.
Swede Hill - Swede Hill neighborhood was once a former Swedish enclave just east of downtown. The neighborhood's boundaries are IH-35 to the west, Comal Street to the east, Martin Luther King Boulevard to the north and 12th Street to the south.
SXSW - Organizers of the massive annual festival that takes over the City of Austin each March. SXSW has donated to the Capital of Texas Media Foundation.
SXSW 2014 - The 2014 South by Southwest was a bit of a tipping point, after four people were killed by a car that crashed into a line of attendees. Since then the city has applied stricter controls to the festival, particularly the "unofficial" events that take place during the spring festival.
Tax Increment Financing District - A geographic area in which property tax revenues are set aside for reinvestments in other areas.
Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone - A tax increment reinvestment zone (TIRZ) is a political subdivision that allows property taxes above a certain amount to be funneled back into the area (or zone) in order to pay for things like infrastructure or improvements, in the hopes that reinvestment will encourage private development.
The Austin Bulldog - An independent, nonprofit local newspaper dedicated to investigative reporting.
The Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce - This group counts more than 2900 businesses and other entities as part of its membership. According to its web site, the organization has served as the "voice of the business community since 1877."
Travis Central Appraisal District Board of Directors - The Travis Central Appraisal District Board of Directors oversees appraisal value properties in Travis County. Major taxing entities under the appraisal district, including the Austin Independent School District, the city of Austin and the Travis County Commissioners Court appoint members to the board.
Travis County - Travis County is the urban county that includes, notably, Austin.
Travis County Central Health - Health organization that provides care and improves service for uninsured individuals in Travis County.
Travis County Civil and Family Courthouse - The Civil and Family Courthouse is currently planned for a redesign with a bond proposal for a 14-story, 511,000-square-foot building with 28 courtrooms.
Travis County Commissioners Court - The legislative body for Travis County. It includes representatives from the four Travis County Precincts, as well as the County Judge. The County Judge serves as the chair of the Court.
Travis County Housing Finance Corporation - According to the county website, "The Travis County Housing Finance Corporation was created in 1980 to assist in meeting the housing needs of low and moderate-income families in Travis County. From time to time, the Corporation provides single-family home ownership (including down payment assistance) opportunities to first time homebuyers who meet certain income requirements. In addition, the Corporation issues tax-exempt bonds to finance the construction or acquisition of multifamily apartments that must provide rental units to certain low and moderate-income families."
Travis County jail - The county detention facility, located in Travis County.
Travis Heights - The Travis Heights neighborhood is bounded by Lady Bird Lake on the north, Interstate 35 on the east, Congress Avenue on the west and Oltorf Street on the south.
Trinity Aquifer - The Trinity Aquifer is a major aquifer that extends across much of the central and northeastern part of the state.
Troy Frasier - State Senator Troy Frasier is a Republican member of the Texas State Senate who has held the 24th District seat since 1997.
TxDOT - The transportation agency for the State of Texas.
Upper Boggy Creek Neighborhood - The Upper Boggy Creek Neighborhood Plan Contact Team (UBC) is made up of six neighborhoods: Blackland, Wilshire Wood/Delwood I, Delwood II, Cherrywood, Rogers-Washington-Holy Cross, and Schieffer Willowbrook. The Upper Boggy Creek Neighborhood Plan was adopted in 2002
Urban Farm Ordinance - Austin's Urban Farm Ordinance controls how farms within the city can be used, limiting the types of activities that can take place on farms, and defining what constitutes an urban farm.
Urban Forestry Board - Austin’s Urban Forestry Board is responsible for developing comprehensive urban forestry plans and, under City Code, may plan and recommend any actions which the board determines necessary regarding “the care, preservation, pruning, planting, replanting, removal or disposition of trees and shrubs and other landscaping” in public areas.
Urban Rail 2014 - An effort undertaken to secure funding for the first leg of what would more-or-less be a light rail system for the City of Austin. It marked the third such major attempt in a decade.
Urban Renewal Board - The Urban Renewal Board oversees the city’s Urban Renewal Agency and any plans associated with the agency. The Urban Renewal Plan’s primary purpose is to “eliminate slum and blighting influence within a designated area of the city.”
Urban Transportation Commission - The Urban Transportation Commission’s members advise City Council and the City Manager on transportation-related matters.
UT Dell Medical School - University of Texas Medical School. It's creation triggered a slate of development in and around what will be the former Brackenridge Hospital. It's role is supposed to extend to community health care in Travis County.
Utilities Development Corporation - A municipally-backed utility group formed in the wake of the Lower Colorado River Authority's decision to divest itself of a series of small municipal water utilities. It eventually succeeded in purchasing many of the utilities.
value of solar - A calculation used by Austin Energy to determine what the utility will reimburse its customers for home generation of solar power. It has been a contentious topic, with solar advocates suggesting that the figure is off.
Vertical Mixed Use (VMU) - According to the city's website, "A vertical mixed use building contains a mix of residential and commercial uses. Typically, commercial uses (i.e. retail shops, restaurants, offices) are located on the ground floor, while residential units (condominiums or apartments) are located on upper levels."
Vested Rights - A doctrine that protects a person who won a legal decision from a legislature overturning that decision.
Waller Creek Tunnel - The Waller Creek Tunnel is a major infrastructure project running through the heart of downtown Austin. Its construction will ultimately allow the removal of some properties in the region from the floodplain.
warehouse district - Austin's warehouse district is located between Third and Sixth Streets, Congress Avenue and Nueces Street.
Water and Wastewater Commission - The Water and Wastewater Commission reviews and analyzes city policies regarding all things water and helps the city of Austin ensure adequate and potable supplies of water for its residents.
Waterfront Overlay - Development regulations for the Waterfront Overlay District were established in 1989, and extends from Lady Bird Lake into its near tributaries. The purpose of the overlay is to promote a "harmonious" transition between downtown development and the parkland that surrounds the water.
Watershed - An area of land that separates waters flowing to different destinations.
Watershed Protection Department - The city's Watershed Protection Department works to reduce the impact of floods, erosion and water pollution in the city. The department is mostly funded by the city's drainage fee.
West Lake Hills - An autonomous Travis County city. First incorporated as a village in September, 1953, its current limits encompass roughly four square miles of land along the Lower Colorado River.
Will Wynn - The former City of Austin Mayor and Council member. Wynn was first elected to Council in 2000, and was elected Mayor in 2003. He served until 2009. He was succeeded by Lee Leffingwell.
Zilker Neighborhood Association - Zilker is a neighborhood in south central Austin, Texas. It extends south of Lady Bird Lake, approximately bounded by the Union Pacific Railway to the southeast/south, Barton Skyway to the south, Rabb Road and Robert E Lee Road to the west and Lady Bird Lake to the north.
Zilker Park - Austin's largest downtown park, Zilker Park is comprised of 350 acres donated by Andrew Jackson Zilker in 1917. It contains the Zilker Botanical Gardens, Umlauf Sculpture Garden and adjoins Barton Springs Pool.
Zucker Report - The final analysis of the Planning and Development Review was released in May 2015. In it were numerous suggestions for the improvement of the city's planning and permitting operations, and the release of the report sparked quick changes, and led to the direct dissolution of the department into two separate departments: Planning and Zoning and Development Services.
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