A lot of money is being spent behind the scenes to sway voter opinion on supporting or opposing Proposition A, which would fund Project Connect.
AUSTIN, Texas — Millions of dollars are being raised and spent to inform and sway voter opinion about Proposition A, the City of Austin ballot measure that would fund Capital Metro’s Project Connect.
The $7.1 billion mass transit system would bring two light rail lines, an underground tunnel, more rapid bus service and other features to Austin. The tax impact is anticipated to be at least 20% on the City’s portion of the tax bill for Austin-area homeowners.
But to get Austinites to vote “yes” or “no” on the measure, a lot of money is being raised and spent behind the scenes. Here’s a look at who is spending what on each side of the issue:
Mobility For All – Pro-Prop A PAC
The Mobility For All Political Action Committee (PAC) raised nearly $1 million – $969,941.22 – from July 24 to Sept. 24, according to a campaign finance report filed on Oct. 5.
Some of the top donors include Austin FC, the area’s first Major League Soccer team, and the American Public Transportation Association.
The group spent $105,771.51 during the same time period on things like fundraising and outreach. They call Project Connect “crucial” to Austin’s future.
Capital Metro
The transit agency Capital Metro has also been shelling out cash over the last year to inform voters about Project Connect. You’ve probably seen some of the bus wraps, billboards and paid social media advertising that explains the transit system.
According to CapMetro, the agency spent $1,116,616.85 on paid media in Fiscal Year 2020, which ended Sept. 30. The agency plans to spend $350,174 more by Election Day.
The money is also going to things like TV and radio advertisements. CapMetro told KVUE the funding comes from the agency’s annual revenues.
Our Mobility Our Future – Anti-Prop A PAC
The Our Mobility Our Future PAC is against Proposition A, partly because of the cost and because they believe light rail is an outdated method of transportation.
From July 24 through Sept. 24, the group raised $276,355 and spent $87,603.95, according to a campaign finance report.
Some of the top donors include Michael Levy, the founder of Texas Monthly; Vicki Roberts with Lexus of Austin; and Roger Beasley Mazda South.
The PAC spent money on things like advertising and a voter poll.
Read More: Project Connect: PAC spending and Capital Metro funds