The city of Austin is seeking to have a say in the future of some Austin ISD campuses—10 of which are slated to close this summer.

What happened: At a March 26 meeting, the Austin City Council approved a resolution to form a policy around the redevelopment of public land by AISD and other entities.

Additionally, council approved refining the city’s process for managing condemnations of city-owned parkland, including some AISD school playgrounds.

The overview: Fuentes’ resolution seeks to preserve publicly owned land for uses that are beneficial to the community. The city manager will develop a land policy around when to acquire or partner in the redevelopment of land owned by other public groups, such as local school districts, CapMetro, Central Health, Austin Community College and Travis County.

What else? Council member Ryan Alter said his resolution aims to raise transparency and protect the public’s interest in the condemnation of city parkland by other governmental entities. The city manager must now develop a process for managing these condemnations.

The Center for Child Protection opened its third facility in Northeast Austin in early April.

The St. Johns Therapy Center will provide free counseling and treatment in English and Spanish to children in Travis County.

What happened: Officials with the center, city of Austin and partner agencies gathered to celebrate the center’s opening at an April 8 ribbon-cutting ceremony, wearing blue to commemorate Child Abuse Awareness Month.

What they're saying: “We as a community are standing together to let every child in Travis County know they are seen, they are heard and most importantly, that we will keep them safe,” Austin Mayor Pro Tem Chito Vela said.

What you need to know : The Center for Child Protection is the area’s only nonprofit involved in the investigation and prosecution of crimes against children, said Michael Torres, CEO of the Center for Child Protection. Last year, the organization saw 856 children in Travis County who were undergoing interviews as victims of sexual or physical abuse or witnesses to violent crime, he said.

Austin area locals can celebrate Cinco de Mayo at Republic Square, catch a movie at the Paramount Theatre’s summer film series or visit the Zilker Botanical Garden. 

There is something for residents of all ages to explore this spring.  

This list is not comprehensive. All events are subject to change.

Spring Markets at Zach 
Local artisans, artists and vendors will pop up at Zach Theater’s People’s Plaza for an outdoor market this spring. Visitors can expect to see home goods, jewelry, art, candles, food and clothing for sale. 

• May 2, 9; 3:30-7:30 p.m.
• Free (admission)
• 202 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin

• May 22-24, times vary
• $15 (regular admission), $9 (youth)
• 713 Congress Ave., Austin

Check out some of the most read stories in the Austin area April 13-16.

1. Significant traffic shifts at New Hope, 183A intersection in Cedar Park

2. The Lodge Card Club closes in Round Rock, lays off 114 employees

3. Check out 17 events happening in the Pflugerville, Hutto area

4. Lake Georgetown under drought watch

5. New housing development coming to Leander near Bar W Ranch and Larkspur

6. Wendy's opening soon off Hwy. 46 in New Braunfels