Austin leaders want to get a better idea of police needs during South by Southwest.
Overtime costs for Austin police have approached $500,000 in recent years.
This year, the Austin Police Department pulled many of its detectives off their regular duties to man police barricades and handle traffic.
City leaders want to make sure the jobs those officers do are not abandoned for major events like SXSW.
"We are looking for funding to maintain that level of service in the neighborhoods, and continue a conversation about how the private businesses who profit from those festivals can chip in, as well," said District 4 Council Member Greg Casar.
A report is due back to the City Council next month detailing those costs, and ways to cover them.
City leaders have begun to hold event organizers responsible for covering a larger portion of those expenses.