Government
BY BEN THOMPSON
Homestead tax exemptions boosted Austin’s senior and disabled homestead tax exemption was raised in May. The details In Texas, some of the value of residents’ primary homes can be reduced for taxing purposes under the homestead exemption. The city’s update reduces the taxable value of eligible Austinites’ primary residence by $30,000, for a $154,000 total exemption. The move follows other increases approved in recent years and adds onto Austin’s blanket 20% exemption for all homesteads. The change could cost others about $100 on their next bills. Eligible Austin homeowners can apply for the exemption or check their status through the central appraisal districts in Travis, Williamson and Hays counties.
Historical (1979-2020)
Near term (2021-2040)
Mid-century (2041-2070)
End-century (2071-2100)
Temperatures rising The number of hot days in Austin is expected to increase through the 2000s, especially with high greenhouse gas emissions.
105
71
69
41
18
16
Min. temp. > 80°F 0 2 15
0 1 3
Number of days seasonally Max. temp. > 100°F
Max. temp. > 110°F
NOTE: MEDIAN PROJECTIONS ARE BASED ON A HIGH GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSION SCENARIO.
SOURCES: CITY OF AUSTIN, THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN CITY CLIMATE COLAB/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Austin prepares for summer heat to worsen With dangerous heat levels likely to continue this summer, local officials are advising residents to stay safe and prepared through the season. The gist Officials said to expect energy and water conser- vation, and for residents to watch out for friends,
family and neighbors as heat-related illnesses rise. What else? New projections from The University of Texas and city researchers suggest Austin can expect to see more hot days and intense weather swings as the climate changes and local population grows. Austin’s count of summer heatwaves and hot spells—respectively defined as three or more straight days of “excessive” heat and two or more straight days with highs over 102.5 days—are expected to at least double.
$1B wastewater plant project moves forward Austin officials approved spending more than $1 billion to upgrade one of two main wastewater treatment plants serving much of Austin Water, partially supported by upcoming utility rate hikes. What happened Multiple contracts for updates to the Walnut
Walnut Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant
by City Council on May 30. The plant’s capacity will be increased by 33%. What’s next Austin Water’s projected rate adjustment will help cover the cost of wastewater plant projects. AW anticipates its rates could rise about 30% over the next four years. New rates will be set during the summer budget process.
SENDERO HILLS PKWY.
Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant, which handles more than half of Austin’s sewage, were approved
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