Episode 125: Shifting to a Strong Mayor System with Austinites for Progressive Reform
On today’s show we speak with Andrew Allison, Chair of Austinites for Progressive Reform. He and Bingham Group CEO A.J. dive into what the group's charter amendments, particularly moving to a strong mayor system, could mean for Austin.
This episode is a two part series on the Austin strong mayor debate.
Also check out BG Podcast Episode 124: Opposing Strong Mayor Reform with Austin for All People
BACKGROUND
In July 2020, Austinites for Progressive Reform launched calling for four reforms, including adopting a mayor-council form of government, i.e. a strong mayor system. This would transfer the city manager’s duties to the mayor.
The city of Austin is currently run under a council-manager system, with power and authority to set policy resting with the city council. The council in turn hires a nonpartisan manager who runs the city (including hiring and firing personnell). The city of Houston is the only major Texas city with a strong mayor system.
On Monday, January 11th, Austinites for Progressive Reform filed 24,000 signatures for four city charter amendments (Austin’s constitution). A certification by the City Clerk would then trigger May 1 election.
LEARN MORE ABOUT AUSTINITES FOR PROGRESSIVE REFORM
Austinites for Progressive Reform (website)
Austinites for Progressive Reform (Facebook)
Twitter: @austindemocracy
Instagram: @austindemocracy
ABOUT THE BINGHAM GROUP, LLC
The Bingham Group, LLC is minority-owned full service lobbying firm representing and advising clients on government affairs, public affairs, and procurement matters in the Austin metro and throughout Central Texas.
Learn more about us at: https://www.binghamgp.com
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