AUSTIN, Texas — Austin City Council voted 8-3 Tuesday to direct the city manager to prepare an ordinance for a potential November bond election asking voters to approve $295 million for parks, recreation facilities and libraries.
The proposed bond package would allocate $260 million to Parks and Recreation and $35 million to libraries, according to city staff.
Council’s action follows a difficult budget season after voters rejected Proposition Q, a proposed tax increase intended to fund city “core services.” About 63% of voters opposed the measure.
Supporters of the proposed 2026 bond package said the funding would help maintain parks and community spaces.
The council approved the resolution despite opposition from Mayor Kirk Watson, who said voters may not be ready to consider another tax increase so soon after rejecting Proposition Q.
“I believe the better course is to continue rebuilding trust… and come back in a stronger and more responsible position in 2028,” Watson said during a May meeting.
The city uses bonds to finance major infrastructure projects, including parks, libraries and roads, with repayment typically spread over time.
The proposed bond ordinance is expected to return to the City Council for a final vote Thursday. If approved, the measure could go before Austin voters in November.
