The Austin - 2026 Bond Election Advisory Task Force meeting on September 22, 2025, focused on clarifying the connection between proposed projects and climate initiatives, as well as addressing public engagement strategies for upcoming community meetings.

A key discussion point raised by a task force member highlighted concerns that many projects included in the bond proposal may not appear directly related to climate action. This raises the need for clear communication to the public about how these projects align with climate goals. The member emphasized the importance of educating the community on the rationale behind the project list, suggesting that without this understanding, public support could wane.

The task force also discussed the logistics of upcoming public engagement sessions. One member expressed a desire for these meetings to prioritize listening to community feedback, suggesting that at least three-quarters of the meeting time should be dedicated to addressing public questions. This approach aims to foster a more interactive and responsive environment for community input.

Additionally, the group acknowledged the necessity of providing consistent information regarding property tax implications related to the bond. With discussions around the city's bonding capacity estimated between $600 million and $700 million, members recognized the importance of preparing a unified message to address public inquiries about potential tax impacts. This proactive communication strategy is intended to alleviate concerns and clarify that any changes to tax rates should be minimal, given the current financial landscape.

As the task force prepares for future meetings, they plan to develop FAQs and talking points to ensure all members are equipped with accurate information. This preparation underscores the task force's commitment to transparency and community engagement as they move forward with the bond proposal process.