@Account Closed I agree that the panel probably could have included representation from the young, white urban professional in the mix, or any other residents that Former Rep Delco mentions as her new neighbors. As far as conservatives in the metro, no doubt many live in less core urban neighborhoods, further removed from the downtown scene (white collar, family-oriented suburbia, like Round Rock, perhaps ?).
I thought Mayor Lee Leffingwell probably represented the mindset of whites who live close to town, since he was raised in Austin and is a democrat. I'm not familiar with his political stance, since older, southern democrats were typically more moderate from his generation (born 1939). The majority of the panel seemed to best represent old Austin, its history and demographic make-up, many of minority ethnicity.
As investors, I believe we have to be mindful of both the past and future, when it comes to neighborhoods. Since properties and their owners have an economic stake as residents, some with long-term histories (even generational), while newcomers may envision a different community (eg. DINKs). Both impact the perceived value of where they live.
Working professionals who don't have families to raise have more disposable income. They're driving the demand and qualifying for mortgages or have lots of cash to revitalize old, urban neighborhoods. They contend with old rules that are in place, while putting new rules (like zoning or HOAs) in place. I figure if I don't live there I don't get a say. If I'm flipping a property, I better understand both sets of rules.
I think redistricting the city into 10 voting districts is one of the best things the local politicians (thru ICRC) have done for Austin's future. We may be hearing from those under-represented republicans, down at city hall, in the near future!
