Transportation, real estate and the bag ban top the lastest news in the area.

1. District 10 Council Member Alison Alter is hosting a townhall meeting 6:30-8:30 p.m. Monday


The meeting, which will be at Westover Hills Church of Christ, 8332 Mesa Drive, Austin, will include conversations on housing and aging, the city manager hiring process, the city’s budget, the aquatic master plan and CodeNEXT.

2. Construction begins on projects  funded through the 2016 Mobility Bond Program


The first project was a sidewalk in North Central Austin, and more sidewalks will be built over the summer. The city also plans to make safety improvements at intersections.

3. Area businesses react to Amazon purchasing Austin-based Whole Foods Market


On Friday, the grocer announced the acquisition. The supermarket will continue to operate under the Whole Foods Market brand, according to the release, and its headquarters will stay in Austin.

Business owners responded that the move could bring about more innovation and efficiency but also that a commitment to local businesses needs to remain a priority.

4. Home sales in Northwest Austin rose 12.1 percent in May compared to same time last year


The area saw a higher increase than other regions, including the city of Austin. The report also showed the median home price in Northwest Austin increased to $372,500 compared with $380,000 for the entire city of Austin.

5. Texas’ attorney general wants to ban Austin’s bag ban


On Thursday, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton asked the Texas Supreme Court to affirm an appeals court ruling that such bans are unlawful.

6. Round Rock ISD trustees decides to wait to fill a vacancy on the board


The board has called a special meeting Tuesday to further discuss a replacement for Paul Tisch, who announced in May he is stepping down because of a move to College Station. The board could take action to fill the vacancy Tuesday.