City leaders are continuing to increase messaging and enforcement surrounding electronic motorcycles and mini-bikes, or e-motos, which have drawn safety and regulatory concerns as they've grown in popularity.

The overview: E-motos are self-propelled vehicles that can reach top speeds well over 30 miles per hour. Devices falling under the e-moto umbrella can be illegal to operate on public streets, but difficult to distinguish from motorcycles, pocket bikes, mopeds and e-bikes—all of which have various definitions and regulations.

What they're saying: Ellis, who sponsored the e-moto resolution earlier this year, noted Austin has frequently served as a "guinea pig" for mobility advancements like electric scooters and autonomous vehicles. And as with AVs or other transportation options, the city may not be able to put its own rules into place given the state's dedicated authority over those topics.

One more thing: As part of council's directive from earlier this year, the city is also exploring the creation of a dedicated e-moto recreation area where the devices could be legally driven.

Read about two recent education stories in Austin and Dripping Springs ISDs.

1. Nonprofits step in as Austin ISD budget cuts squeeze schools: Two Austin nonprofits are racing to cover what Austin ISD's budget can't this school year. Communities In Schools of Central Texas, or CIS, closed its Refuse to Lose campaign Aug. 31, having raised more than $354,200, over 100% of its goal. Austin Ed Fund, meanwhile, will deliver $350,000 to 48 teacher-led projects across the district Sept. 2 through its Inspire the Future grant program.

The push comes as AISD officials work through what grew to a $205 million reduction package for the 2026-27 school year, part of a budget crisis that's left the district's real deficit running ahead of its own projections.

2. Dripping Springs ISD families will see an increase in student meal prices: Parents in Dripping Springs ISD will pay slightly more for their students’ meals this school year.

The overview: The board of trustees approved a $0.10 increase for breakfast prices and a $0.25 increase for lunch.

Check out stories trending in the Austin area Aug. 31-Sept. 3. 

1. Georgetown to reduce speed limit on Ronald Reagan Boulevard

2. Rooftop padel club planned at downtown Austin Convention Center garage

3. New East Austin supportive housing offers exit from homelessness

4. Round Rock residents to see higher water, wastewater, sewer bills

5. Bee Cave rejects permit for VVater research lab

6. Hays County secures over $39 million for railroad overpass at Centerpoint Road

Democratic candidate Pooja Sethi and Republican candidate Jennifer Mushtaler will face off in the Nov. 3 election for Texas House District 47. 

Texas House District 47 spans parts of northwest, west and southwest Austin. Democratic incumbent Vikki Goodwin did not seek reelection. 

What you need to know: Community Impact reached out to all candidates who filed to run in the Texas House District 47 race. Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to these guidelines or for style and clarity.

Voter deadline registration is Oct. 5. Early voting will be held Oct. 19-30, and election day is Nov. 3.