During a recent city council meeting, local business owners and residents voiced urgent concerns regarding public safety in Austin, emphasizing the need for increased police resources and support for the Austin Police Department (APD).

One store owner recounted a troubling incident involving a homeless individual who reacted violently when asked to pay for coffee, highlighting a growing sense of insecurity in the community. He criticized the APD for their slow response times, attributing this to a lack of resources and staffing shortages, with approximately 300 vacancies reported within the department. He urged the council to prioritize safety measures to foster a secure environment for residents and businesses alike.

Travis Rocha, representing the Austin Apartment Association, echoed these sentiments, advocating for the approval of a new contract between the city and the Local Police Association. He detailed the impact of crime on property management, noting that rising crime rates have forced property owners to allocate more funds towards security measures, which ultimately affects affordability for residents. Rocha pointed out that Austin has experienced over 30 homicides this year, surpassing both state and national averages, and called for a reconsideration of opposition to the police contract.

Another speaker, a longtime Austin resident and business consultant, shared personal experiences of violence and crime in the city, stressing the importance of a strong police presence. He noted that many customers now feel unsafe visiting local businesses due to increased crime and diminished police response times. He praised the professionalism of the APD officers he has encountered and urged the council to support the new contract to enhance public safety.

The discussions at the meeting underscored a collective call for action to address public safety concerns in Austin, with community members advocating for a stronger police force to ensure the well-being of residents and businesses in the rapidly growing city.