Mayor of Austin, Texas · Pop. 979K
All Promises (3)
Target: Increase senior exemption, no property tax hike
Actual: Senior exemption raised to $154K; general property tax increased in FY2025
Watson successfully raised the senior/disabled homestead exemption from $124,000 to $154,000 — seniors likely won't see a city property tax increase. However, other homeowners saw a property tax increase, and the City Council approved raising property taxes as part of the $5.9 billion FY2025 budget, including added funds for homeless services. Watson later requested the FY2027 budget forecast be built without assuming a tax increase.
Source: Austin Monitor, Austin American-Statesman, KXAN
Full analysis →Target: Light rail construction underway
Actual: Phase 1 rescoped and delayed; no federal funding secured; land purchased for housing
Watson championed Project Connect and the Austin Transit Partnership reduced Phase 1 scope to fit the existing budget. The anti-displacement fund purchased the Tokyo Electron campus for $87M to build 1,100 housing units. However, the project has experienced significant scope reduction and cost overruns — the price tag grew while the footprint shrank. Federal funding has not been secured, and groundbreaking has been delayed.
Source: KUT, KSAT, Austin Current
Full analysis →Target: Significant new affordable housing pipeline
Actual: 1,100 units planned at Tokyo Electron site; pipeline growing but prices remain high
The Watson administration has used Project Connect anti-displacement funds to acquire land for 1,100 affordable units at the Tokyo Electron site. Austin's HOME initiative and density bonus programs have increased the pipeline. However, median home prices remain above $500K and affordability remains the top concern for residents.
Source: Austin Monitor, Austin American-Statesman
Full analysis →