At a press conference held the day after the passage of the new City budget, Austin Interfaith leaders celebrated a historic living wage win and other 'budget priorities' that were included. Austin Interfaith leaders thanked the Mayor and specific council members for acting as "budget champions." As a result, the City of Austin will now pay their workers an increased living wage of $13.03 per hour (up from $11.39) and for the first time will include temporary AND contracted workers in that wage standard. Workers employed for at least 12 months will additionally qualify for healthcare benefits. Employees of private corporations receiving public subsidies will also benefit from the wage increase.

Leaders celebrated additional wins in areas impacting workers, children and families: $350K in increased investment in long-term job training program Capital IDEA, $3 million in added investments in parks, pools and libraries, $684K for AISD parents support specialists, $520K for Primetime after-school programming, and at least $1.6 Million for property tax breaks for seniors and disabled homeowners.

Mayor Adler and Council members Casar, Kitchen and Pool celebrated the passage of what Rabbi Alan Freedman called a "living budget" alongside organization leadership.

Setting an Example, Austin Chronicle

Council Wrap Up: Unpacking Council's Brand New Budget, Austin Chronicle

Point Austin: A Living Budget, Austin Chronicle

Lideres de Austin Celebran Aprobacion de Presupuesto, Telemundo