AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin City Council's agenda for its Nov. 30 meeting is full of items to address housing in the city.
Here are four items to keep an eye on.
Renewing the Austin Tenants' Rights Assistance Program
Council members were initially set to vote on renewing the Austin Tenants' Rights Assistance Program, which provides counseling and technical assistance to low-income renters on issues with landlords and helps make sure that housing practices remain fair in Austin.
However, the item was withdrawn due to changes and corrections.
Approving more money for Pecan Gardens
Council members approved on consent spending more money to renovate Pecan Gardens, the former Candlewood Suites hotel the City bought to convert into a shelter for people experiencing homelessness.
The council is looking to spend about $2.7 million more on renovations and repairs after it received reports that there a number of problems with the building.
The City bought the former hotel in 2021 for $9.5 million, but it has yet to be operational.
Deal with A New Entry
The council approved on consent moving forward with a deal with A New Entry. It's a group that helps people who are struggling with substance abuse and living on the streets by connecting them with treatment.
The City wants a 1-year agreement with the group for about $550,000.
Land trade with Oracle
The council was set to discuss approving a land trade with the tech company Oracle. However, the item was pulled by Councilmember Alison Alter (District 10) due to changes and corrections.
The deal has been in the works for years. If approved it would allow the City to create a riverfront park in East Austin, north of the Colorado River and just east of US 183. The land is already home to the former Austin racetrack.
In return, the City would give Oracle 9 acres on Lakeshore Boulevard, which is currently home to the City's Central Maintenance Complex.