Austin’s city leaders are moving to hire 12 new staff members dedicated to tackling the growing challenges around homeless encampments—something residents in North Austin say has been affecting their daily lives. With only two full-time staff currently handling hundreds of requests each month, the city’s new budget proposes nearly $1 million to expand the team. These new positions would focus on outreach, managing encampments, and helping move people into shelters, aiming for a more coordinated and humane approach. Residents and officials agree: addressing this issue takes more than just police involvement. What do you think will make the biggest difference for our neighborhoods? #Safety #Austin #Homelessness