Full Answer Section

Objective 1.2: Ensure a strong foundation for economic growth by investing in infrastructure, innovation, and workforce development.

• Performance Measure 1.2.1: Increase the percentage of Austinites who commute to work using sustainable transportation options (e.g., public transit, biking, walking) to 15% by 2026.
• Performance Measure 1.2.2: Increase the number of high-tech startups in Austin by 25% by 2026.

Goal 2: Equitable and Inclusive Community

Objective 2.1: Promote equity and inclusion by addressing systemic barriers and creating opportunities for all Austinites.

• Performance Measure 2.1.1: Reduce the racial and ethnic poverty rate in Austin by 10% by 2026.
• Performance Measure 2.1.2: Increase the percentage of Austinites who report feeling safe and respected in their neighborhoods by 15% by 2026.

Objective 2.2: Foster a diverse and welcoming community that celebrates its cultural heritage.

• Performance Measure 2.2.1: Increase the percentage of Austinites who participate in arts and cultural activities by 10% by 2026.
• Performance Measure 2.2.2: Increase the number of multilingual programs and services offered by the city by 20% by 2026.

Analysis of Performance Measures

The performance measures outlined in the City of Austin Strategic Plan 2023-2026 are SMART goals, meaning they are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

Specific: The performance measures are specific in that they clearly define the desired outcomes. For example, Performance Measure 1.1.1 specifically states the goal of increasing the median household income for all Austinites by 5% by 2026.

Measurable: The performance measures are measurable in that they can be quantified and tracked over time. For example, Performance Measure 1.1.2 can be measured by tracking the percentage of Austinites with a post-secondary education credential.

Achievable: The performance measures are achievable in that they are realistic and attainable given the resources and timeframe. For example, Performance Measure 2.1.1 is achievable given the city’s commitment to addressing systemic inequities and investing in community development programs.

Relevant: The performance measures are relevant in that they align with the strategic goals of the plan and contribute to the overall success of the city. For example, Performance Measure 1.2.2 is relevant to the goal of fostering a vibrant and diverse economy by supporting the growth of high-tech startups.

Time-bound: The performance measures are time-bound in that they specify a deadline for achieving the desired outcomes. For example, Performance Measure 2.2.1 specifies the goal of increasing the percentage of Austinites who participate in arts and cultural activities by 10% by 2026.

The SMART framework ensures that the performance measures are well-defined, actionable, and aligned with the city’s strategic goals. By tracking these measures, the city can assess its progress towards achieving its vision for a thriving, equitable, and inclusive community.