Item 24 Passed 10-0
In plain language — from the agenda backup
Council is weighing a resolution that would set up a new economic development framework for Austin, calling for a comprehensive economic development policy and action on filling the Director of Austin Economic Development role. The measure also directs staff to improve how the city handles economic development projects going forward. If approved, it sets the direction for how Austin pursues and manages economic growth in the years ahead.
The official agenda language
Approve a resolution establishing an economic development framework, directing the creation of a comprehensive economic development policy, directing action on the position of Director for Austin Economic Development, and directing actions to improve economic development projects.
What got said
- Dozens of speakers opposed incentives for AI data centers and defense contractors; target sectors language was removed before the vote
- Business chambers and labor unions testified in strong support of the economic development framework
- Mayor Watson stressed the resolution sets values-based standards and does not itself incentivize any company
The roll call
Approved on Consent 10-0
- Kirk Watson Mayor Yes
- Natasha Harper-Madison D1 Yes
- Vanessa Fuentes D2 Absent
- José Velásquez D3 Yes
- José "Chito" Vela D4 Yes
- Ryan Alter D5 Yes
- Krista Laine D6 Yes
- Mike Siegel D7 Yes
- Paige Ellis D8 Yes
- Zohaib "Zo" Qadri D9 Yes
- Marc Duchen D10 Yes