Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Travis County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues with critical priority
Opioid Crisis and Harm Reduction
The county put $175,000 into a contract with Communities for Recovery to help people in opioid recovery find housing.
Proposed Manor Wastewater Treatment Plant & Wilbarger Creek Greenway
Manor officials and residents argued over regional wastewater treatment plants planned near Elgin and Manor; a resident said a 236-acre alternative site would be better than building next to a park.
Regional Wildfire Preparedness and Burn Ban Enforcement
The burn ban in unincorporated Travis County runs through December 1, driven by dry conditions on the county's east side.
Employee Healthcare Costs and Benefit Changes
The county transferred another $3.56 million to cover 2026 employee health claims, on top of $13.7 million earlier this year — roughly $17.2 million total — citing rising costs and utilization.
Affordable Housing Availability and Federal Funding Cuts
The Housing Authority and Strategic Housing Finance Corporation reported on portfolio occupancy, new housing units under construction, and expanded tenant protections.
Balcones Canyonlands Preserve Visitor Center Project
The county approved a nearly $40 million contract to build the BCP Visitor Center and trails, moving forward with a multi-year conservation project.
Public Defender Office Permanent Board Bylaws
Community members and public defenders debated the proposed bylaws and board composition for the Travis County Public Defender's Office, raising concerns about community representation.