For Immediate Release - September 10, 2013

Contact: Bob Batlan (512) 796 1533 - Jim O'Quinn (512) 589 2838

Austin Interfaith Recognizes Council Members for Investing in All Budget Priorities

Austin Interfaith commends council members for approving the reallocation of over a million dollars in the 2013-2014 budget to workforce development and youth programs at parks, schools and libraries while decreasing the tax rate. This is an investment in our children, youth and future skilled workforce.

"Today's decisions are a victory for Austin's future generation--because they're going to have more story times at the library, more hours at the pool and enriching classes after school. We want to see our future doctors, lawyers, and artists come from our own communities, families and education system," said Austin Interfaith leader Reverend Sandy Jones of Mt. Olive Baptist Church.

Austin Interfaith Budget Priorities:

- Primetime Afterschool - $350,000
Restore funding for AISD youth programs.

- Austin Public Libraries - $307,490
Support youth literacy by funding bilingual outreach and children's librarians.

- Capital IDEA - $200,000
Invest a total of $1.13 million in economic development that can end the cycle of poverty.

- Parks and Recreation - $1.455 Million
Provide equitable parks and park programming by investing in underserved parks and pools.

- Summer Youth Employment - $72,000
Restore funding for summer youth programs.

Thank you to council members Martinez, Morrison and Tovo for making the motions to fund these priorities.

Monday, September 9, 2013, Austin City Council members will make important City Budget decisions that directly affect our families. Even though Austin is a growing city, for years funding has been cut in areas that are important to our families, like youth programs, libraries and parks. Austin Interfaith is working with congregations and schools across the city to ensure the budget reinvests in the people of Austin. We can make sure council members hear our voice by working together to make hundreds of calls and emails before Monday morning. It's quick and easy!

In emails please be sure to use the Subject: Austin Interfaith Budget Priorities (otherwise all of our emails will not be counted together!).

Click here for more info and Council Members' Contact Info

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[Photo Credit: Felipa Rodriguez for KUT News]

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