NEWS BRIEFS
Survey: Access to food, water top priorities
Capital Metro to use American Rescue Plan Act funds for staffing shortages
ACCESS TO HEALTHY FOODS
One of the main concerns of Travis County residents who took part in the survey was being able to eat healthy foods. Here is the percentage of residents who consume five or more servings of fruits and vegetables daily.
BY CHLOE YOUNG
furthering long-term employment. “By better supporting our team members at the beginning of their tenure, it will ensure confidence in their new roles and increase the like- lihood of long-term employment,” Capital Metro Communications Specialist Blythe Nebeker said. FEDERAL FUNDS Capital Metro will receive $780,100 as part of the federal government's American Rescue Plan. Here are some uses the agency plans for the money.
Capital Metro has been awarded $780,100 in American Rescue Plan Act funds to strengthen its staffing efforts, the U.S. Department of Transportation and Federal Transit Administration announced June 3. “This is great news for the hard- working frontline staff at Cap[ital] Metro, and it will truly make a difference,” said Dottie Watkins, interim Capital Metro president and CEO, in a release. “Workforce development is an important part of our strategic plan, and investing in our frontline staff to best serve our community is key.” As Capital Metro has struggled with staffing shortages amid the pandemic, the Austin transit agency will use its grant to hire and retain more staff. Frontline workers such as operators, supervisors, mechan- ics and dispatchers will undergo a training program with the goal of
BY KATY MCAFEE
The 2022 Travis County Com- munity Survey revealed having a dependable water source and access to food are the highest priorities for Travis County residents. The survey showed internet access and traffic were also ranked top priorities. The survey had the most robust participation in its history with just under 2,500 participants, according to Travis County Planning Manager Yaira Robinson. White residents were overrepresented by 21% compared to the total population, and Hispanic residents were underrepresented by 16%. The results will be used to help Travis County Commissioners Court make more informed funding deci- sions and allocate the Local Fiscal Recovery Fund received through the American Rescue Plan Act.
22.6%
2011 2013 2015 2017 2019
18.4% 17.3%
40.9%
15.6%
SOURCE: BEHAVIORAL RISK FACTOR SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM/COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER
While water remains a top priority overall, communities may differ on why water remains a top concern. Multiple boil-water notices in the past three years as well as growing drought and water shortages may be the driving force behind the survey results, according to Christy Moffett, economic director for strategic investments for Travis County.
Recruitment
Retention
Career development
Training
Unmatched Academic Results Come tour a campus and see for yourself!
Challenger School offers uniquely fun and academic programs for preschool to eighth grade students. Our students learn to think for themselves and to value independence.
Avery Ranch (PS–8) (512) 341-8000 15101 Avery Ranch Boulevard, Austin Round Rock (PS–K) (512) 255-8844 1521 Joyce Lane, Round Rock Spicewood Springs (PS–K) (512) 258-1299 13015 Pond Springs Road, Austin
© 2022, Challenger Schools Challenger School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin. An independent private school offering preschool through eighth grade
11
NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION • JUNE 2022
Powered by FlippingBook