Early voting in Travis County has begun. Here's what you need to know before you head to the polls. - Austin Monitor

"Travis County elections officials estimate only about 25% of registered voters will cast a ballot this fall, keeping with the trend of lower voter turnout on off-year elections. But, that doesn't mean there aren't important issues to weigh in on. This guide is here to help inform you about what is on your ballot and make a plan to vote."

"The biggest item on the ballot for Austin voters is Prop Q, a city of Austin tax increase that would generate $110 million for parks, homelessness services and public safety. City officials said the tax increase is necessary due to lower-than-expected sales tax revenue and a loss in federal funding. However, some local groups, including the Austin Chamber of Commerce and the Real Estate Council of Austin, oppose the measure."

"You can verify your voter registration in Travis County using the Texas Secretary of State's My Voter Portal. The deadline to register for this election has passed. If you missed the deadline, you can get registered for the next election by visiting the Vote Texas website. Early voting in Travis County runs from Oct. 20 through 31. Travis County residents can vote at any polling location within the county. You can find an early polling location near you using the map below."

Travis County expects roughly 25% voter turnout for the fall off-year election. Major items include Prop Q, a proposed Austin tax increase to raise $110 million for parks, homelessness services and public safety, supported by city officials due to revenue shortfalls and lost federal funding and opposed by some business groups. Voters will also decide 17 state constitutional amendments, including property tax exemption changes, and potential city council or mayoral contests depending on residence. Voter registration can be checked via the Texas Secretary of State portal. Early voting runs Oct. 20–31 at any Travis County polling location.

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