Summary
Austin, Texas, voters turned down a measure called Proposition Q that would have increased property taxes to fund services like homelessness support and parks. Most voters were not in favor of the proposal, which would have raised taxes by over 20%. The decision aligns with the stance of Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who opposed the tax increase.
Key Facts
- Proposition Q proposed raising property taxes in Austin by more than 20%.
- The tax hike aimed to generate over $100 million for services such as homelessness support and parks.
- 63.5% of Austin voters rejected Proposition Q, while 36.5% were in favor.
- Over 110,000 people voted against the measure, and more than 62,000 voted for it.
- Governor Greg Abbott urged Austin residents to vote against Proposition Q.
- Had it passed, homeowners with a $500,000 property would have seen a $25.22 monthly increase in their tax bill.
- Political group Save Austin Now opposed the measure and called its failure a "victory for taxpayers."
- Austin Mayor Kirk Watson supported the proposal, stating the need to address budget shortfalls.
