Debate over relaxing Austin’s regulations on homeless camping, sitting, and lying in public is nothing new, but since the city council’s official vote to make those changes, the level of debate has certainly increased. To address concerns and dispel any possible myths that may be surrounding the ordinance changes, the Downtown Austin Alliance will be hosting a public forum next week alongside city officials.
“Attendees will be able to hear from the Austin Police Department about how they are interpreting and enforcing the new laws, as well as from city officials about homelessness planning, including recommendations for adding capacity that are due in August,” a DAA release says.
Join us with @Austin_Police for a community forum to discuss safety-related topics in downtown Austin. This event is free and open to the public. More details including speakers coming soon! #publicforum #ATXcommunity #downtownaustin #freehttps://t.co/87lQ4PxfYq
— Downtown Austin Alliance (@DowntownATXInfo) July 12, 2019
Panelists will include:
- Chief Brian Manley, Austin Police Department
- Veronica Briseño, Interim Homeless Strategy Officer, City of Austin
- Bill Brice, Vice President of Investor Relations, Downtown Austin Alliance
- Moderated by Dean Angela Evans, LBJ School of Public Affairs
The forum will kick off with a welcome from Dewitt Peart, president and CEO of the Downtown Austin Alliance, and the introduction of new Downtown Area Commander Jason Bryant followed by a panel discussion on the ordinances.
Property managers and downtown business owners are especially encouraged to attend the event, which is scheduled for July 23 from 5:00 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. at Central Presbyterian Church located at 200 E. 8th Street..
