Austin voters rejected Proposition I, which would have required recurring independent assessments of city government operations, spending and performance. Unofficial Nov. 3 results show the measure lost by 10 points. The measure was backed by Save Austin Now.
A separate multi-year comprehensive efficiency review, authorized by City Council, is still in progress. Initial reporting is expected early next year. City Council voted in February to set up recurring assessments. Mayor Kirk Watson suggested the idea partly in response to the failure of last year's Proposition Q, a tax rate increase, and voter concerns about spending and transparency. Watson called the program a "back to basics" modernization aimed at improving public trust.
The current audit is covered by a $5.23 million contract with Public Works LLC, with support and oversight from the Austin City Auditor's Office. The firm was chosen this summer after receiving the highest score in a public solicitation. A city spokesperson said Public Works has made "significant progress" on Year 1 work. The firm's first public report could come at the Audit and Finance Committee's Jan. 20 meeting.