Crucial Information for Travis County Voters Ahead of the May 4 Election

Travis County populace, gear up once again to exercise your democratic rights! The upcoming May 4 election presents an array of propositions and candidacies, ranging from civic councils to school boards, park bonds, and even disannexation – all depending on your particular residential area. Additionally, make note of a breakthrough election for the Central Appraisal District Board of Directors of Travis County. Here is what you must know before you take to the polls.

Key Dates to Remember

• April 22-27: Early voting commences, polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• April 23: Last day for submission of mail-in ballot
• April 28: Early voting continues with polls open from noon to 6 p.m.
• April 29-30: Early voting resumes with polls accessible from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• May 4: Election Day

Remember, on April 30th, seven select polling locations within the county will remain open for voting from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Travis County residents enjoy the flexibility of voting in any designated polling place within the county. The complete list of late-open polling locations can be found online.

What’s on the Ballot?

For the first time in its history, Travis County’s ballot will exhibit three open positions for the Travis Central Appraisal District’s Board of Directors. The credit for this innovation goes to the resounding triumph of Proposition 4 last November which, besides reducing property taxes, necessitated the addition of three elected positions to appraisal district boards in counties housing over 75,000 inhabitants. The remit of the TCAD Board spans hiring the Chief Appraiser, budget approval, contract ratification, and policy formation. A comprehensive Q&A session along with the profiles of the candidates is also available online.

Travis County’s ballot will also allocate six propositions to Austinites domiciled along the striving city’s edges. The electorates within these territories can cast their votes to remain within the city radius or to dissociate and establish independent townships. The momentous decision would naturally have bearings on certain city fees and public services such as trash pickup, police, and firefighting parameters. A realistic sample ballot for Travis County is accessible online to familiarize you with the process.

Remember, your voice matters. Be prepared, stay informed, and make your vote count this election season.

About the Writer

Katy McAfee has been a Government Reporter since joining Community Impact in 2022. A University of Cincinnati alumna with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a certificate in deaf studies, Katy served as features editor for her school’s student paper, The News Record. Apart from writing, Katy’s interests include watching movies and outdoor activities.