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The Archives

• 03.12.11
  Open Letter to the Community Mike's Blog

  An Open Letter to the Community: Cesar Chavez once said, "Our language is the reflection of ourselves. A language is an exact reflection of the character and growth of its speakers." The recent release of email communication for which I am responsible has caused me to look back with embarrassment, and today, the weight of Cesar Chavez's words weigh heavy in my heart. I have been disrespectful and have created wounds within our community that might not be overcome. For my words, and the lack of judgement shown within, I offer an open apology to all who will accept ...
• 07.26.10
  Linda Watson to serve as new CEO of Capital Metro Mike's Blog

  Today I am happy to welcome Linda Watson as the new CEO of Capital Metro. I look forward to working with Ms. Watson and the rest of the Board to help Capital Metro provide the vital service that this community deserves. Linda will be a vital part in helping transform our agency into a world-class transit provider. I am confident Linda is the right person to get this done and help Cap Metro turn the corner as we address our agency's challenges. She has a wealth of experience, knowledge and a track record that shows she can run ...
• 07.20.10
  Statement from MPT Martinez re: Proposed Sanders Settlement Mike's Blog

  The Austin City Council will consider a settlement of the Nathaniel Sanders shooting case on July 29th, 2010. The decision -- whether or not to settle this case and pay the Sanders family $750,000, is not one I take lightly. In fact, it is a decision we should all contemplate for some time. As I have thought about this incident and how it impacts our city, I have decided to share my thoughts for further debate and discuss prior to our potential vote that I believe is critical. What comes to mind follows: Is the decision to settle the case simply to ...
• 03.10.10
  My Position on Urban Rail and more Mike's Blog

  I strongly support Mayor Leffingwell’s position on delaying consideration of the City’s urban rail proposal until more planning has been done and more details have been finalized. As the newly-elected Chair of the Board of Capital Metro, I’m particularly sensitive to the need to ensure that promises made are promises kept. Like the mayor, I’m convinced that urban rail will ultimately be vital to the success of our overall transportation system in Austin and Central Texas, especially as commuter rail now begins to become a central component of that system. I believe this delay will also allow ...
• 03.05.10
  MetroRail to begin March 22, 2010 Mike's Blog

  I am proud to say there is change happening at Capital Metro. It is indeed a new day for us. Just this morning, Capital Metro was approved to begin MetroRail operations on March 22, 2010– a development that has been some time in the making, but a great transformative step for our transit agency. I can assure you this is the first step in a series of changes for our organization, and without a doubt, there is more to come. Central Texas' transit agency is at a critical turning point, and we know it will not happen without ...
• 02.11.10
  Agendas for Austin City Council Committees and Subcommittees Mike's Committee Agendas

  I currently serve on the Audit and Finance Committee, Judicial Committee, Minority-Owned and Women-Owned Business Enterprises and Small Business Council Committee, and the Public Health and Human Services Committee. I will be posting individual agendas for these upcoming meetings in separate posts, but you can also view agendas for all upcoming meetings here. I am proud to serve as the Chair of the Capital Metro Board. The meeting information and agendas can be seen here.
• 02.11.10
  2010 Council Meeting Calendar City Council Agendas

  The 2010 Austin City Council meeting calendar is available here. Mark your calendars!
• 02.11.10
  Council Meeting Information Center City Council Agendas

  For the most recent Council Meeting information including agendas, click here.
• 02.11.10
  Welcome to www.MartinezForAustin.com Mike's Blog

  Friends, Welcome to my website! Since I began my career as a public servant, I've worked to increase the transparency and accountability of government. I hope my new website will make my office more accessible and serve as a resource for everyone interested in issues that impact our city. Here, you can learn about my stance on City issues, visit my personal blog, provide feedback on City Council items, sign up to receive email updates, and connect with me through facebook, twitter, and other social networking sites. I've also included a calendar for local events and a media page so you ...