Correction on Mopac South Open House Tomorrow At Austin High School

Location Correction on Mopac South Open HouseThe updated location of the Open House for the resurrected proposal to expand Mopac South is the Austin High School Cafeteria (1715 W. Cesar Chavez St. Austin, TX 78703), November 12th at 5pm - PLEASE ATTEND. We need a strong turnout to show unified opposition to the CTRMA's proposal to add 4 more lanes to Mopac within 1,200 feet of Barton Springs. We are joining Travis County's call for the CTRMA to complete a full Environmental Impact Statement, as required by federal law, before proceeding with the project. This Open House kicks off a public comment period on the Mopac South expansion plan that runs through December 29th.  We killed this terrible project in 2015 and with your help we can do it again. Stay tuned for the re-launch of KeepMopacLocal.org, which will have updates and action alerts. 

The Planning Commission date for the proposed Hays Commons development which threatens 500 acres of the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone has been delayed until likely December. In the meantime, we need your help sending letters to the Planning Commission to encourage them to put a stop to the Hays Commons' requested SOS Ordinance Amendment and environmental variances. For information and how to send a letter, click HERE.

Austin Council Drops Latest Attack on Citizen Initiative and Recall Petition Rights; Approves South Congress SkyscraperYesterday the Austin City Council withdrew its proposed ordinance erecting delays and roadblocks to citizen initiative and recall petition rights under the Austin City Charter.  The action came after SOS attorneys told the council the ordinance violated the Austin City Charter and state law.  It's not clear if this latest City Council attack on Austin's already very limited rights of direct democracy will come back at a later date.  
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The City Council also gave final approval for a 480 foot skyscraper to be built with zero setback from the South Congress sidewalk, just south of the world famous bat bridge. The approved tower would block and disrupt views along Congress on both sides of the river.  The 0.8 acre tract, located where the current Firestone tire shop sits, is allowed 95% impervious cover and with no on site park or heat island protection requirements.   But hey, Mayor Watson and the city council members will tell you how much they care about protecting our lake and climate with good planning. 

SAVE THE DATE - SOS Holiday Party on Friday, December 6th

Get ready for a much needed uplifting holiday party in Austin, hosted by Save Our Springs Alliance! Save the Date for Friday, December 6th, from 6 to 11 pm, at the historic American Legion Charles Johnson House (404 Atlanta Street).

This year, we're celebrating all things local, featuring delicious homemade tamales, incredible music from legendary Austin musicians, and the company of the most interesting folks from our beloved city. Plus, we're gearing up for our best silent auction and food drive. 

Event Highlights:
*Locally Sourced: Connect with the most interesting folks from our beloved city and celebrate the spirit of community at our Silent Auction filled with local art and unique gifts and services from your favorite Austin businesses
*Delicious Food: Indulge in a feast of delicious homemade tamales, showcasing the best flavors Austin has to offer.
*Legendary Music: Immerse yourself in the sounds of Austin with live performances by renowned local musicians.
WE NEED VOLUNTEERS! Please fill out this quick form to let us know how you can help.SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER HERE!!!