Austin City Council is back in chambers Thursday following a summer break.
They have a full agenda to tackle including discussions, votes, and a controversial settlement.
The city has been in negotiations with the family of a man who was shot and killed by an Austin police officer. Earlier this month city officials granted the family of Nathaniel Sanders a $750,000 settlement.
The family filed a Civil Rights lawsuit against the city and the officer, Leonardo Quintana, who shot and killed their son during a police investigation last year.
A grand jury cleared Quintana of criminal wrongdoing but a private investigation later uncovered what it described as misconduct and flaws in the subsequent investigation.
Council must give its approval to any city issued settlement. Some members have already expressed concern.
“We have to take tax payer money seriously and at the same time have a strong relationship with our entire community and law enforcement," said Council member Sheryl Cole.
"The question is, 'Do we settle this for this amount, close the book, and never legally be able to open it again?' or 'Do we take it to trial and present all the evidence and all the information and debate it in trail,” added Mayor Pro Tem Mike Martinez.
While the Sanders settlement remains debatable, council members are expected to pass a straight approval for an ordinance that would require construction companies to provide their employees with rest breaks. A group held protest outside City Hall last month pleading for change.
According to the ordinance, employees who work outside in the construction must get a 10-minute break for every four hours worked.
“Last year seven workers died in construction in Austin,” said Emily Timm of the Workers Defense Project, “One of them was named Jeffrey Willenborg. He died from heat exhaustion after working for three days in extreme heat conditions in South Austin.”
Companies caught in violation face a Class C misdemeanor charge and possible fine. The city could also file suit.
Another issue expected to receive sweeping support is a resolution banning the retail sale of dogs and cats.
According to a national Humane Society report, many pets sold in retail environments are born in what are known as puppy mills or kitten factories in inhumane conditions.
A South Austin pet store, Petland, has already closed its doors in anticipation of the ban. The resolution will not affect local breeders.
Council will also open up the chamber floor to public input. Included in the public hearing session are the proposed hikes to city water, solid waste services and property tax.
The increases were first suggested Wednesday during a budget work session. Council members received the first draft of the City Budget for the 2011 fiscal year. It includes a multi-million dollar deficit which staff hopes to close by increasing those rates for residents.
“If it’s invested in infrastructure that provides the quality of life we’re looking for, I’m okay with it,” said one Austin resident.
According to the proposed budget: property taxes would go up $4.37 a month for the average home, most water bills would increase by $3.84 and solid waste services would go up $1 for a 90 gallon cart and down $.35 for 60-gallon carts.
The increase would allow the city to maintain and in some situations improve the city’s core public service.
“I think it’s reasonable at least for the amount of services we’re given in this city,” added another resident.
Those wishing to speak before council can sign up online or at City Hall.
