Deal on COA bond package reached

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Earlier this week, the Austin City Council was not able to reach a consensus on a bond proposal but after numerous discussions and votes, members unanimously approved the $385 million bond package on third reading on Friday. 

The council has struggled to pass the item since councilmember Bill Spelman took a leave of absence for health reasons. He would have made their seventh and deciding vote.

Voters will have the chance to vote "yes" or "no" in the November election.

"Voters will be asked to approve a very balanced package that puts a high priority on transportation solutions, parks facilities, trails, open space, cultural arts and affordable housing - without increasing taxes. In order to stay within our current bonding capacity and not raise taxes, we had to make difficult decisions to prioritize needs in the community," said Mayor Lee Leffingwell.

Special meetings were scheduled for Saturday and Monday if the council were still at an impasse after Friday.