Madison Morris

When election season rolls around, red, white and blue marketing materials become community staples, and candidates become household names. However, propositions and initiatives, often removed from the headliners in gubernatorial or presidential elections, catch voters off guard.

As folks head to the polls this election to amend the Texas constitution, Travis County voters will decide on two propositions. Proposition A is a $233 million bond to improve roadways, bridges, bike lanes and storm drain infrastructure in Travis County. Proposition B is a $276 million bond to improve Travis County parks and acquire new park lands. 

Although they aren’t as flashy as electoral debates or passionate speeches, these propositions are more consequential to the average person’s life than a single candidate. This Election Day, UT students and Austinites should vote ‘yes’ on Travis County Propositions A and B.

The May 2023 general election drew less than 79,000 voters. Yet, the 2022 gubernatorial election received a major turnout, with races drawing high support. Over 462,000 Travis County voters voted in the election between Beto O’Rourke and Greg Abbott. Despite the difference in turnout, both elections are of consequence.

Economics sophomore Nathaniel Roe says that while some propositions make major news, like the 2016 proposition limiting the operations of rideshare companies in Austin, the majority of bonds fly under the radar. 

“Since those don’t fundamentally alter the way a city would function, I don’t think those receive as much attention,” Roe said. “They do make major impacts on us, but they just aren’t given as much attention usually.”

In Travis County, roadways can feel turbulent. Potholes can come out of nowhere and often remind drivers of a roller coaster. Government and accounting junior Brian Pena said that Proposition A is a simple solution to mitigate these issues.

“Prop A is one of those basic things that just needs to be done,” Pena said. “It’s not controversial. It’s simply about maintaining the basic functions of government.”

Additionally, the improvement of Travis County parks through Proposition B is also extremely timely. On the ballot are the fourteenth constitutional amendments, the last of which calls for the expansion of parks and conservation areas throughout the state, sparking a new golden age for Texas parks and wildlife. With Proposition B, Austin could join in on a local level, creating green space for future generations and simultaneously protecting the county’s water sources under the regulation of the county.

“Parks are just a big part of what so many people love,” Pena said. “Travis County does a really good job of trying to preserve that as much as possible, while still balancing the development and population growth. This is probably one of those things, it’s going to be a big investment.”

Those who oppose the propositions often cite the accompanying tax increase. But, the property tax increase would average only $3.82 a month and could be lower for some. The county even offers voters a resource to calculate estimated property tax increases by home value and is taking strides to disperse the benefits more equitably across every part of town. 

Regardless of one’s home value, the tax increase is remarkably low for such a major undertaking. Ultimately, the value of these propositions could boost property values as parks and better roadways draw in higher prices. Additionally, average citizens could experience a better quality of life as repaired roadways preserve vehicles and green spaces make time outside more enjoyable. 

These propositions hold significant benefits — this election, vote ‘yes’ on Propositions A and B.

Doud is a journalism and government freshman from Conroe, TX.