City Council adopted Austin's $6.6 billion budget for fiscal year 2026-27 on Aug. 12 alongside a property tax increase and other adjustments to city rates and fees. During and after their deliberations, officials weighed in on their support or opposition to the final spending plan that passed 9-2.

The details: Most council members who voted for the FY 2026-27 budget highlighted the month-long review process that led up to their final decision, and the millions of dollars in funding that were maintained for the city's extensive social service programs.

On the other hand, Mayor Kirk Watson and council member Marc Duchen criticized the decision to advance a budget without deeper cuts and more focus on the expenses being passed on to residents. Both voted against adopting the final FY 2026-27 budget and tax rate.

Residents will be able to view the completed spending plan in October, when Austin's next fiscal year begins.

After half a decade in north Austin’s Pease Park, brother friend has officially closed the longtime pop-up. Owners Tim and Susie Nicholson and their son Evan closed the pop-up in late July and announced the closure in a collaborative Instagram post with Pease Park on Aug. 7. 

“We’ve made our last coffee in the park. Poured our last cold brew,” the post states. “Tendered our last doggie treat. But it’ll live forever as our favorite trail in town—peace out, Pease.”

Learn more: In the post, the coffee pop-up detailed its origin story. Five years ago, in a post-pandemic state, brother friend brought its VW bus and an espresso stand for an outdoor pop up each weekend. The brand pulled over 10,000 espresso shots during its time at Pease Park, along with a few concerts, an art show and fundraising efforts for the park. 

What they offer: The coffee truck sells classic espresso drinks like lattes, cortados, americanos and cappuccinos. 

• 1100 Kingsbury St., Austin

Check out some of the most-read stories about the Austin area from Aug. 10-13. 

1. Franklin Barbecue to temporarily close in East Austin

2. Cedar Park officials approve $5.6M for transportation, community projects

3. New running shoe store to open in San Marcos outlets

4. Claw machine arcade coming soon to New Braunfels

5. Discount Tire opens second location in Georgetown

6. H-E-B plans store upgrades in Pflugerville