In a recent city council meeting, resident Nubia Regalado voiced her concerns about safety and quality of life in her District 2 neighborhood, highlighting issues such as rampant fireworks, gunshots, and a nearby homeless encampment. Regalado, a single mother and professional vendor, described her home as a once-quiet area now plagued by violence and drug abuse, making it unsafe for her son to play outside.

Regalado recounted a harrowing incident from March of last year when a car explosion sent debris onto her roof, yet no emergency responders arrived despite her calls for help. She expressed frustration over long wait times when calling 911, often hanging up after being on hold for several minutes. Her attempts to reach out to local news stations and her district representative for assistance went unanswered, further exacerbating her feelings of neglect.

During her testimony, Regalado emphasized the need for improved safety measures and community support, urging the council to consider the testimonies of residents like herself. She expressed hope for a new contract aimed at restoring peace in Austin, a city she feels has changed dramatically in recent years.

The meeting concluded with council members acknowledging the importance of public input and thanking residents for their participation. The council is expected to deliberate on the issues raised, as community safety remains a pressing concern for many constituents.