State filings show T.J. Maxx will build a 31,000-sq-ft store at the Shops at Tech Ridge, with construction slated May 1–Sept. 15, 2026.

Former Austin police chief Joseph Chacon was sworn in as Taylor’s police chief after a city search; he began leading the department and says he’ll focus on safety as Taylor grows.

Austin police are asking for help finding Anthony Sentel Clark, 29, wanted for failing to register as a sex offender. Tips can be submitted anonymously to Capital Area Crime Stoppers.

Nearly 60% of Texas high school seniors have filed the FAFSA this year, putting the state on pace to break records while advocates warn immigrant families still face barriers. Outreach and tuition‑promise programs are driving the surge.

Officials say falling enrollment and stalled property sales have widened a multi‑million‑dollar shortfall, putting consolidations and deeper cuts back on the table.

Neighbors in Southwood say a recurring camp under the St. Elmo bridge is bringing drug use, trash and safety fears to their block.

A 16-year-old was struck at Dessau Road and Shropshire Boulevard and later died. APD’s Vehicular Homicide Unit is investigating the crash.

City staff are drafting zoning changes to bar new smoke and vape retailers from opening within 1,000 feet of schools and daycares; existing shops would be grandfathered.

Dozens of Fort Hood patients say investigators told them their doctor may have secretly recorded exams and offered only a pamphlet; advocates are stepping in.

City staff are asking Council to authorize eminent domain on a Mount Larson Road parcel so Austin can build a public‑safety radio tower above Lake Austin. The city says the site would close a first‑responder coverage gap and cut lease costs.

An Avride autonomous vehicle struck a duck near Mueller Lake Park in Austin; residents recovered the eggs and the company says it is investigating. Neighbors want testing pulled back while logs are reviewed.

Round Rock police arrested 52-year-old Rodney Vaughan Rhynes on April 1 on charges of aggravated sexual assault of a child and indecency with a child. He is being held on a combined $1,000,000 bond as investigators continue to probe.

Showers and thunderstorms are likely in Austin Saturday, April 4, with gusty winds and locally heavy rain. Expect wet commutes and pockets of street flooding.