The Austin - 2026 Bond Election Advisory Task Force convened on September 22, 2025, to discuss strategies for engaging the community in the upcoming bond election. The meeting focused on the importance of adequately preparing residents for discussions about project priorities and budget constraints.

A key point raised was the need for proactive communication before meetings. Task force members expressed concern that if community members only learn about the bond projects during the meetings, they may not provide meaningful feedback. One member emphasized the necessity of educating the public about the projects well in advance to facilitate informed discussions.

The task force reviewed a list of 66 proposed projects totaling $3.9 billion, while acknowledging that the available budget is only $640 million. Members highlighted the importance of clearly communicating this budget limitation to the public to manage expectations. Suggestions included mapping the projects geographically to illustrate their locations and categorizing them to provide clarity on funding allocations.

The discussion also touched on the format of future meetings. Members debated the effectiveness of virtual breakout rooms for gathering input, with some expressing concerns about the lack of support for facilitators in such settings. It was suggested that hybrid events could be beneficial, allowing for both in-person and virtual participation.

Additionally, the task force recognized the need for foundational education about bonds, as some community members may not fully understand their purpose. The complexity of facilitating discussions in a way that allows all voices to be heard was also noted, with members stressing the importance of skilled facilitation.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the task force's commitment to engaging the community effectively in the bond election process. Members agreed to continue refining their approach, with plans for further discussions and preparations in upcoming meetings.