The program on the referendum over Ordinance 450 that aired unsuccessfully this past week will be rebroadcast on Public Access Channel 6 at 9 p.

Monday, October 30, 2000

The program on the referendum over Ordinance 450 that aired unsuccessfully this past week will be rebroadcast on Public Access Channel 6 at 9 p.m. Wednesday. Due to technical difficulties, the live debate was broadcast for 25 of its 30 minutes with no sound on Tuesday.

Moderated by KAAL’s Carla Johnson, the forum is an attempt to explain all sides of the upcoming referendum and an important venue for voters to watch if they are concerned or confused about the referendum.

"I think all the different sides are pretty clearly explained," KSMQ general manager Jude Andrews said. "I would encourage residents to watch on Wednesday."

Arguing for the annexation – which was approved by the Austin City Council with its Ordinance No. 450 – is developer Richard Kahn of Minneapolis. Kahn is a partner in the development company that would like to build single-family homes ranging in price from $100,000 and up on the land.

Arguing against the annexation is Dr. Mark Reeve, spokesperson for the group opposing the annexation and development of what is now farmland. The citizen-group would like to see the land preserved as green space, to be used for passive recreation and wildlife habitat.

City Community Development Director Craig Hoium also takes part in the forum.