Austin ISD Superintendent Matias Segura said parents at two middle schools should have a say in possible closures. The Texas Education Agency flagged Burnet and Webb middle schools for low test scores, and the district seeks to avoid a state takeover. Families at both campuses may get a voice in decisions about their children's schools.
Austin ISD faces a tight budget because of lower enrollment and higher transportation costs. The district must find $5.7 million in more cuts to avoid a deficit, after an estimated $14 million revenue loss from fewer students. Where the district finds savings will shape what schools can offer families.
Austin City Council approved several initiatives to increase financing options for small businesses. They include a loan buydown program, expanded matching support at the Austin Kiva Hub, and a pitch competition being developed with UT Austin. Owners of small businesses in Austin may find more ways to get funding.
The City of Austin canceled the planned 2026 drawdown of Lake Austin after consulting the Lower Colorado River Authority and stakeholders. Concerns included effects on businesses, fall wedding season, and events such as UT football games. Businesses and event hosts around the lake will not face a drawdown this year.
Nib used AI to summarize the linked public news sources. No Juncture editor reviewed this brief. AI summaries can miss context or make mistakes, so check the original sources before acting on this information.
Multiple people were on board the Circuit Breaker roller coaster at COTALAND when it experienced an unplanned stop during opening day. Riders were stuck in vertical tilt for about nine minutes before exiting. The ride also had another operational stop the following day.
SocietyPublished Sep 29, 12:00 AMAdded Sep 30, 4:15 AM
The Travis County Commissioners are still developing plans for installing flood warning sirens following deadly flooding in the Sandy Creek neighborhood last year. The county is working on a pilot project and contracting with "OminiWarn" to implement a 3-site system.
SocietyPublished Sep 29, 12:00 AMAdded Sep 30, 3:07 AM
Arrests for driving while intoxicated have more than halved in Austin over the last 12 years. Experts point to ride-hailing services and a decline in enforcement by the Austin Police Department as contributing factors. The DWI Enforcement Unit was disbanded, leading to fewer full-time officers for enforcement.
SocietyPublished Sep 29, 12:00 AMAdded Sep 30, 12:19 AM
The National Weather Service issued a flood watch for the Austin area, covering Travis, Hays, and Williamson counties. A cold front is expected to bring periods of heavy rainfall that could lead to life-threatening flash flooding through Friday night. Residents are advised to stay weather aware.
SocietyPublished Sep 29, 12:00 AMAdded Sep 30, 12:19 AM
A man shot by an ICE officer in North Austin has been charged with assaulting and resisting a federal officer. Wilber Rafael Garces Perez appeared in federal court after being charged with one count of assaulting, resisting, interfering, and impeding a federal officer. He has a detention hearing set for Oct. 2.
SocietyPublished Sep 29, 12:00 AMAdded Sep 30, 12:19 AM
Wilber Garces Perez, shot by an ICE officer on September 20 in North Austin, has been charged with assaulting and resisting law enforcement. The charges were brought after he fled from immigration officials during a traffic stop. Court documents indicate the shooting occurred after an SUV crashed into his car.
SocietyPublished Sep 29, 12:00 AMAdded Sep 30, 12:19 AM
The Texas Department of Public Safety arrested several people on charges stemming from an ICE protest in North Austin on September 20. Actions cited included removing barricades and throwing items at law enforcement. DPS also noted that Kevin Howard Diaz was arrested for obstructing a passageway during the event.
SocietyPublished Sep 29, 12:00 AMAdded Sep 30, 12:19 AM
Yesenia Santiago recounted the fear after her husband, Lucas, was detained by ICE agents in South Austin while heading to work. The Santiagos are among many families affected by recent ICE activity in Austin. Santiago is now fighting for his release while caring for their son.
Governor Greg Abbott urged Texans to prepare for heavy rain that could cause flash flooding across parts of the state over several days. The threat is expected around Austin and San Antonio into Friday morning. Officials advised drivers to turn around if they encounter flooded roads.
Wilber Rafael Garces Perez, the Austin man shot by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer, is due in federal court in San Antonio. His attorneys are seeking his release, citing concerns over a bullet lodged in his body and limited mobility.
About 160 people gathered Sunday afternoon at the North Austin site where an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent shot Wilber Garces Perez. Protesters held signs advocating for full legalization for immigrants and justice for Ruben Ray Martinez, killed by ICE. The location was previously marked with graffiti reading "Free Wilber" and "ICE out of Texas."
Summer's last stand continues for three more days before big weather changes arrive, bringing higher rain chances and a cooling trend to Austin. Multiple rounds of heavy rain are anticipated, with the highest chances occurring on Thursday and Friday.
SocietyPublished Sep 28, 12:00 AMAdded Sep 30, 12:19 AM