In the News

Despite East Austin Growth, Economic Summit Validates Wage Issues

On October 21, members of Goodwill’s Job Source Division attended the annual East Austin Economic Summit sponsored by the People Fund. Discussion revolved around economic sustainability for long-time residents and small businesses as East Austin has seen a boom in development and population.

Economists illustrated that while there is some positive progress being made in East Austin with developers, residents, and small business owners, there are still a few issues that deserve more focused attention. The issue of affordable housing not being feasible to long time East Austin residents was also discussed. The economists concluded that Austin is a hot market right now, however, wages are not on the rise. Currently the minimum wage is $5.15, but it is estimated that a liveable wage in Austin is $12.83. The strongest message of the day was that people need to invest and actively participate in their community for it to prosper.

Attendees of the summit were: Jamie Connaster, Chrissy Hejny, Stacee Millangue, Amanda Moore, and Sara Tierney.