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🌱 Patch AM: Why an Austin woman’s arrest is now at the center of a lawsuit

Be sure to catch The International Gem & Jewelry Show - Austin, TX (January 2026) on the Austin Patch calendar

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Hey there, Austin! Let's get started with what's happening in and around town. Read on and stay in the loop. ☀️

In today's newsletter:

  • Why an Austin woman’s arrest is now at the center of a lawsuit
  • How could Austin’s 2026 bond package hit your wallet?
  • Is North Austin’s promised gunshot detection system actually up and running?

Also on today's calendar: The International Gem & Jewelry Show - Austin, TX (January 2026) and 9 more events.

Find out what's happening in Austinfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Today's riddle: After dinner, my parents asked if I could clear the table. 🤔 (Answer below!)

Weather forecast:

Find out what's happening in Austinfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

  • Thursday: Mainly cloudy; breezy, warm, with a high of 82 and low of 58 degrees.
  • Friday: A stray t-storm; not as warm, temps: high: 70, low: 45.
  • Saturday: Cooler; breezy in the morning, with a high of 58 and low of 40 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. Austin woman sues city, claims officer's force caused severe injuries (kvue.com) — An Austin woman is suing the City of Austin and a former Austin police officer, alleging she was violently taken to the ground during a 2024 arrest and suffered serious injuries. City officials say they have not yet been served, while the Austin Police Association defends the officer’s actions and APD leadership has already imposed an indefinite suspension.
   

2. Expect movement on Austin's potential 2026 bond package this month (kxan.com) — Austin leaders are laying the groundwork this month for a potential 2026 city bond election that could affect your taxes and city services. Mayor Kirk Watson and a citizen task force are shaping a “decision tree” and draft recommendations, which will go to council by April and guide what projects might ultimately appear on your ballot.
   

3. Neighborhood near homicide scene testing out gunshot detection system (cbsaustin.com) — A recent fatal shooting of a deputy constable outside a North Austin nightclub has renewed attention on violent crime in the 78753 area and a promised gunshot detection pilot in Quail Creek. Neighbors were told a community-based sensor system would help alert Austin police to gunfire, but the department now says the project remains in design and testing with nothing yet deployed.
   

4. Central Texas (Austin / I-35 Corridor) (enr.com) — Major water projects in and around Austin are moving forward to keep up with rapid growth along the I-35 corridor. From expanding Austin’s treatment plants to new regional connections and reuse efforts, utilities are positioning for state funding to protect reliability during peak demand and drought.
   

5. Tough week with cedar fever as flu surge continues (kvue.com) — Cedar fever is flaring up around Austin this week, with dry, breezy weather kicking up Hill Country pollen and leaving many Austinites sneezing and congested on local trails. At the same time, flu cases are surging in Travis County, and local clinicians say a true fever and body aches are key signs your symptoms may be flu, not allergies.
   

📸 Around Austin

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • Traffic Fatality in the Intersection of S 1st St. and W Slaughter Lane -/... (X: Austin_Police)
  • It’s the first voting session of 2026! The Travis County Commissioners Court meets today (1/6) at 9. The Court is expected to hear an update on... (X: TravisCountyTX)
  • TradeJobsWorkforce posted a job opening for USPS Mail Sorter in Austin. Apply here.
  • Austin Independent School District posted a job opening for GF Academic Dean Middle School Pool for 2025-26 SY in Austin. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Austin here.

Ok Austin! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: I needed a running start, but I made it!
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Send it to us!

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