The race for Austin's city manager position heated up during Monday's town hall where candidates Sara Hensley and T.C. Broadnax squared off, discussing key issues such as public safety, homelessness, and transparency. The event was packed, signaling high community interest in the managerial future of the city.
Hensley, currently the city manager of Denton, emphasized her connection to Austin, saying "I want to come home," a statement obtained by CBS Austin. Her focus was on diversity, equity, and inclusion, stating that as city manager, she'll aim to hire people of diverse backgrounds. On homelessness, she highlighted her experience and the need for a multipronged approach, including collaboration with faith communities for comprehensive solutions.
Broadnax, the outgoing city manager of Dallas, touted his 30-year career in various cities and states and pointed to his track record, particularly the Racial Equity Plan he adopted in Dallas. "Policing is better done when you're working and engaging with the public," Broadnax told the audience during the event, while also pledging to ensure accountability for the Austin Police Department, according to CBS Austin.
In terms of public safety, Hensley prioritized hiring a permanent police chief and providing additional resources for de-escalation tactics and mental health services, information she shared with the audience during the event. Broadnax echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the necessity of working with the public and holding law enforcement accountable.
On the subject of government transparency, both candidates pledged to make city data more accessible. They agreed on the importance of a digital dashboard that makes information on municipal spending and actions publicly searchable, as reported by the Austin Monitor. In the closing remarks, Hensley said, "It’s time for me to come home, there’s a lot to do here," a sentiment that resonated with her eagerness to address the challenges Austin faces.
Broadnax, on the other hand, pitched Austin as "the city I've dreamed of leading," during his closing statement, promising to bring values of empathy, ethics, excellence, engagement, and inclusivity to the role. With a decision imminent, the town hall served as a final forum for the two candidates to present their visions for Austin's managerial future.
