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Fort Worth has overtaken Austin as Texas's fourth-largest city, reflecting Austin's stagnating growth rate of just 0.4% between 2023 and 2024. This slowdown stems from affordability issues and a post-pandemic tech downturn, impacting both retention and attraction of residents.
H-E-B launches a monthly concert series called "True Texas Tunes" in collaboration with Austin nonprofit HOME to support aging musicians. The concerts will be free and held at the South Congress H-E-B, starting this Saturday with Marcia Ball's Boogie Trinity. This initiative aims to enhance community engagement and express gratitude to customers during store renovations.
Axios announces its "Zoom In Series" event, focusing on economic mobility and the cost of living across major U.S. cities. The event will take place on May 14, 2025, from 12:03 PM to 2:02 PM GMT. Local business owners from cities like Austin, Chicago, and San Francisco will discuss challenges and opportunities in their communities.
The Texas Legislature advances several bills aimed at limiting local government authority, particularly in progressive cities. Republican lawmakers argue these measures restore legal clarity, while city officials oppose them, fearing financial constraints on local services. The legislation could freeze sales tax revenue vital for municipal budgets.
FIFA began selling VIP hospitality packages for the 2026 World Cup, with prices starting at $6,750 per person. Austin will not host any matches, but its soccer fans showed strong interest during the 2022 World Cup. The U.S., Canada, and Mexico will co-host the tournament.
High temperatures exceeding 100 degrees are forecasted for Central Texas this week, with Wednesday expected to be the hottest day. Residents should recognize heat alerts and take precautions, including staying hydrated and checking on vulnerable individuals.
Burnet Middle School initiated three safety holds on May 5 due to a gun-related social media post and a medical emergency. School resource officers confiscated an unloaded firearm from a student, while a medical incident required EMS intervention. All events concluded without harm to students or staff.
Elon Musk faces backlash from residents in West Lake Hills, Texas, over his $6 million home's security measures, including a 16-foot chain-link fence and armed guards. Critics argue these installations resemble a military compound and violate local construction permit regulations.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has sued the Austin Independent School District, claiming it violated state law by using materials linked to Critical Race Theory (CRT) and the banned 1619 Project. The investigation aims to uncover a potential systemic policy promoting such curriculum despite legal prohibitions.
Severe thunderstorms, including tornado risks and 70 mph wind gusts, prompt early school releases in Central Texas. Local districts, including Austin ISD and Round Rock ISD, cancel after-school activities and adjust release times for student safety. Residents are advised to stay alert as conditions develop.