Austin has adopted a new process with increased public scrutiny for the city's procurement of surveillance-related technology, following pushback against previous public camera programs.

The details: The focus on Austin's potential procurement of technology that collects personal information comes after the recent consideration of millions of dollars in contracts for surveillance technology across the city, including the police department's use of automated license plate readers and a proposed parks department camera program.

Also of note: An ordinance adopted in April now requires city departments considering the use of surveillance-related technology to get formal City Council approval before doing so. It also includes other public reporting requirements, including the creation of privacy impact statements for any proposed contracts for such technology.

Looking for events to attend in Southwest Austin and Dripping Springs this May? Check out these activities, including live performances at Austin Psych Fest and cuddling with mini goats at Vista Brewing.

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

Golden Bloom Festival
Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center is celebrating half a century of operations with self-guided tours, archery, music, face painting and crafts. 

• May 2; 8:30 a.m.-noon, 1 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

• $5 (vehicle fee)

• 24814 Hamilton Pool Road, Round Mountain

Austin Psych Fest 2026
The Far Out Lounge will host a three-day music festival featuring The Flaming Lips, Thee Sacred Souls and The Black Angels. 

• May 8-10, times vary

• tickets starting at $92.02 

• 8504 S. Congress Ave., Austin

Owner Christine Olson announced plans to close Sfingiday, a local artisan and gift shop in Austin. 

What they offer: Sfingiday sells a variety of handcrafted goods, candles, pottery, art, jewelry and clothing. The small business also hosts  classes on watercoloring, candle making and perfume making. 

The context: The store initially opened on South Lamar in 2022, as the brand expanded from Seattle. 

The store doesn’t have a definite closing date, according to its Instagram, though the lease is up in early July. Sfingiday will continue operations at its Seattle location, as well as hosting events in Austin after closing its storefront. 

• 2058 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin