Telling you a every day okay.

Believe in his feelings, believe in his source.

I sit with steelness.

I'm hearing his voice, telling me every day.

Be one with stillness, lack of the noise, only still.

Do you hear his voice?

Telling you everything.

Believe in his privilege.

Believe in his source.

I sit with stillness.

I'm hearing his voice, telling me everything's gonna be okay.

Good morning.

The time is now 9 07 on Thursday, April 20 uh April 9th, 2026.

And the meeting of the San Antonio City Council is now called to order.

Madam Clerk, please call roll.

Councilmember Corr.

Councilmember McKee Rodriguez.

Councilmember Via Gran is here virtually.

Council Councilmember Mugia.

Present.

Councilmember Castillo.

Here.

Councilmember Galvan.

Here.

Councilmember Alderete Gavito.

Here.

Councilmember Mesa Gonzalez.

Present.

Councilmember Spears.

Councilmember White.

Mayor Jones.

Here.

Mayor, we have quorum.

Thank you, Madam Clerk.

I'd like to invite Councilmember Galvan to introduce today's invocateur.

Thank you so much, Mayor.

Our voicing today will be offered by Dr.

Ryan Carpenter, Senior Pastor of Village Parkway, Baptist Church in District 6.

Dr.

Carpenter has served churches and organizations across Texas for more than 25 years, including previous service at Village Parkway from 2007 to 2014.

Before returning as senior pastor in 2022, Pastor Carpenter leads a Christ centered congregation committed to following Jesus by blessing our city.

Under his leadership, Village Village Parkway partners with local schools, neighborhood leaders, and community organizations, and has been recognized to 2023, 2024, 2025, and I'm hearing 2026, North Side ISD Campus Partner of the Year for my alma mater, Myers Elementary.

So with that, take it away, Dr.

Carpenter.

Thank you for the opportunity to pray for our city, for those that carry the responsibility of leading it.

I'm especially grateful to Councilman Galvan for the opportunity.

And if you would please let us pray.

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the opportunity to gather today for the privilege of living in our city San Antonio.

As we celebrate Fiesta, we are thankful for the traditions that bind us together.

We're grateful for the men and women who serve this committee community through their leadership on the city council and public service carries real responsibility.

We thank you for their willingness to invest their time, wisdom, and energy for the good of our city.

And many times they face more complaints and criticism than thanks.

So with today we ask that you assure them of our appreciation.

Make it a place where righteousness dwells, justice is pursued, and neighbors care for one another.

May the work done here today contribute to the peace and strength and flourishing of our great city.

And I pray these things in the name of Christ our Lord.

Amen.

Thank you, Dr.

Carpenter.

Please remain standing.

Join me in the Pledge of Allegiance.

I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.

And so the Republic for which it stands.

One nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

As we can tell with all the clanking, it is Fiesta time, which means I have six proclamations to read.

As such, I will read each one and invite the requester to speak afterward.

So we'll save our council comments until the very end of all of the Fiesta proclamations.

Okay.

So the first one, whereas the City of San Antonio recognizes that Fiesta San Antonio, one of the nation's premier festivals, will take place April 16th through 26, 2026, to honor the memory of the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto and to celebrate San Antonio's rich and diverse culture and history.

And whereas what began in 1891 is a single parade event has grown into an 11-day extravaganza featuring vibrant parades, culinary events, lively local entertainment, and the longstanding tradition of collecting and wearing fiesta medals.

And whereas now celebrating its 135th anniversary, this Texas sized festival is coordinated by the Fiesta San Antonio Commission, a nonprofit volunteer organization that through the support of its participating member organizations works year round to manage the thousands of details and daily tasks essential to planning and executing this citywide celebration.

And whereas this fun-filled multicultural celebration with a purpose generates a significant economic impact for the city, benefits numerous nonprofit organizations and charitable causes, and provides a safe and educational experience that showcases the diverse heritage and enduring spirit of San Antonio for residents and visitors alike.

Now, therefore, I, Gina Ortiz Jones, mayor of the City of San Antonio, in recognition thereof, do hereby proclaim April 16th through 26, 2026 to be San Antonio's official 2026 Fiesta season in San Antonio, Texas, and offer my best wishes to the Fiesta San Antonio Commission for a successful celebration.

Please.

Madam Mayor, thank you so much.

You took my speech right out of my mouth.

But I will say that make no mistake, the Fiesta San Antonio Commission recognizes that we could not do what we do without the help of the City of San Antonio.

We have your permission for streets, we have your assistance with safety, we have all of your support, and we are eternally grateful for it.

Also make no mistake that San Antonio would not be the same without Fiesta.

We are bringing a huge economic impact to our city, and of course, we're an economic impact to the city of San Antonio as well.

I think together we can create something very, very vibrant and very good.

One of the things we're trying to do, though, this year, and I think we're accomplishing, is to spread the word past 1604.

I think most of us as San Antans understand you leave the city boundaries and people don't know about Fiesta.

We are the best kept secret.

And it's a wonderful secret.

We have banded together with initially Chris Flores of Eat Migos, who brought us content creators, and we realized last year that spreading the word through them was going to make a vital impact on bringing more into San Antonio, those, as we'll say, foreign dollars coming to us.

This year, because of the assistance of Visit San Antonio, we now have 26 international travel writers who will come to our city, experience Fiesta with us, and take the story home.

We're hoping that that all comes together well.

You know, it's been said that San Antonio is a melting pot.

I think we can look across this council and understand that we are not a melting pot, because a melting pot makes something one, makes something that's one element.

We are a wonderful salad.

We are so many different elements that come together in the best possible way to create something vibrant, delicious, and wonderful.

So please plan to join us starting April 16th at Fiesta Fiesta, as we spend 11 days playing, eating, and earning.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Thank you so much.

I'm gonna read the next proclamation regarding King Antonio.

So whereas the City of San Antonio recognizes that since 1926, the Texas Cavaliers have honored the memory of those at the Alamo, keeping alive the spirit of Texas history and the important role San Antonio has played in that history.

And whereas the Texas Cavaliers clear created King Antonio to deliver positive and healthy messages to local school children, reinforcing the values of education and self-respect.

And whereas Gardner MPV has been chosen as this year's King Antonio the Hundred and Third and will represent the Texas Cavaliers, greet all royal subjects at ceremonies and special appearances, and distribute charitable funds during Fiesta 2026.

And whereas King Antonio will reign over the Texas Cavaliers River Parade on April 20th, 2026, delivering merriment and mirth along the banks of the San Antonio River to thousands of citizens and visitors.

Now therefore, I, Gene Ortiz Jones, mayor of the City of San Antonio, in recognition thereof, do hereby proclaim that Gardner MPV is duly recognized as King Antonio.

May your reign enhance the many traditions of the Texas Cavaliers.

Please, King Antonio.

Thank you, Mary Jones.

That was fantastic.

And thank you, Council too.

Y'all spend so much time.

Um you are our elected representatives, and you work so hard.

We're the guys in these fake military uniforms and goofy outfits.

Um, but it's you that do the hard work.

So in 1946, um, to show there's more to the Texas Cavaliers than these uniforms.

1946, a former king of ours, uh Perry Schenkel, who at the time was president of the chamber, created this, created this opportunity for the Texas Cavaliers and others to come talk to the council and the mayor and explain what we actually do.

And uh Fiesta, as you heard, is a huge impact, over 400 million in tax revenue, also four four million in tax revenue as well, so it's a big deal.

But the Texas Cavaliers are more than that.

Um we were founded 100 years ago, 1926 is when we started, and uh a couple things with that, we created our first coin in 1946, and the medals you all know today, uh in the 70s, one of our members punched a hole in it, put a little ribbon, created the first Fiesta Medal.

That's why we all have medals today.

So pretty neat.

Uh, the River Parade, you mentioned it's our 81st.

We only didn't do that for three years because our members were at war in World War II.

So that's important to us.

Um mayor, thank you for attending our investiture coming up.

That'll be in front of the Alamo.

That's a big deal for us as well.

But what we're about, our purpose is our charitable foundation.

So that started in 1989, and since its inception, we've given away 25 million dollars to children's charities in Bear County.

Just this year, we plan to give away three million to um primarily our main beneficiaries of Breckenridge Park Conservancy for a massive children's park that's gonna be there.

Very proud of that, and also 50 vetted charities that will benefit this year from that gift.

Um, so that's our purpose.

That's our why.

That's why we're here to explain that to you and uh why we wear these uniforms.

Um, also, council members, we have an art contest every year in your districts.

This year we gave away 110,000 to art programs at elementary schools uh to all of your districts.

Uh, there were 50 elementary schools that applied for that.

Each district received had a winner and a runner up.

Uh, we would appreciate and love for you all to participate in that every year.

So, viva fiesta, we're gonna have a great time.

We're gonna dance in front of the Lord, and um uh appreciate y'all.

Thank you.

One other comment, um, real quick.

Mayor Ortiz, I'm uh I'm a board member at Haven for Hope.

And I appreciate you attending, going to see the campus and talking with Rhonda and Barbara, appreciate your interest there and leaning in.

Thank you for the time.

Okay, Ray Fayo.

Whereas the City of San Antonio recognizes the legend of Rey Feo dating back to medieval times when the King of Spain had distanced himself from his subjects, choosing to fill his court only with the beautiful, wealthy, and aristocratic, while the ordinary citizen was rarely invited to the palace or given the opportunity to see the monarch.

And whereas the common people rebelled against the king and gathered to proclaim one of their own to reign as the ugly king or the people's king, and whereas this celebration of the populace traveled to the new world and Ray Feyo was formally invited to be a part of Fiesta in 1980 with the principal purpose of raising funds to provide scholarships to deserving youth.

And whereas Dr.

Damoso, Danny Oliva Jr.

has been chosen as Rey Fayo 77 and will represent the Ray Feo Scholarship Foundation during the 2026 Fiesta activities, supporting its mission and fundraising efforts.

And whereas during his reign, Ray Fayo and his court will encourage thousands of young people to stay in school, respect their teachers and parents, and be good citizens.

And he will serve as a goodwill ambassador for the city and its citizens throughout the year.

Now, therefore, I, Gina Ortiz Jones, mayor of the city of San Antonio, in recognition thereof, do hereby proclaim April 17th, 2026, respectively to be Rey Feo Day in San Antonio, Texas, and extends best wishes for a most successful reign.

Rafeo, please.

Well, thank you, Mayor and uh City Councilman.

Um, you know, we as Ray Fail uh are we are the people's king, and what we do more than anything else is raise funds for education.

You know, we use Fiesta as our platform to launch these things.

What we we have to realize as a city, Fiesta gives us this opportunity for over 160, 170 events.

They're all charities, and people don't realize that it's not just a party, but it's a party with a purpose, and this year's uh theory is all of us together, right?

Uh if they'll go on with our our our chairperson, uh Ms.

Bern Burney, I say we're a paea, right?

Because uh especially we have uh a mayor and it's the paea was for the queen, and so you are a queen uh uh mayor, and so you know we want to include everyone, and that's what other paea is.

Everything is added, everything is going on, but our main mission is the kids of San Antonio and to raise funds because we feel that education is the greatest equalizer.

Education is hope.

You know, if we can make it where it's expected for us to get higher education, you know.

So we donate uh funds to St.

Philip's for you know, all the uh trade schools.

We also donate, we're gonna be donating to Alamo Promise, where this is one thing that we have to tribute to our city and and our community colleges, that every student that graduates here in San Antonio gets two years free education, and that is a tribute to y'all and and what the city has and and does for its community.

But we just want to say, as Ray Fayo, and we would just want to say, you know, uh Viva Mayor, you know, Viva San Antonio and Viva Fiesta.

Thank you, guys.

We're through Niosa will be next.

Whereas the City of San Antonio recognizes that the Conservation Society of San Antonio's 78th presentation of a night in old San Antonio, Niosa, will be held April 21st through 24th, 2026 in the La Vieita Historic Arts Village.

And whereas what began as a harvest festival at Mission San Jose to celebrate the heritage of the city's early settlers has grown into one of the nation's largest historic preservation celebrations, showcasing San Antonio's unique and diverse cultural traditions.

And whereas the Fortnite event, produced by thousands of dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers, features 14 culturally themed areas and more than 155 food, beverage, and atmosphere booths, providing entertainment for more than 85,000 attendees.

And whereas proceeds from Niosa support the Conservation Society's mission to restore and preserve historic properties, parks, waterways, traditions, and the intangible heritage of our multicultural city and neighboring counties through education, advocacy, grants, and preservation projects.

Now, therefore, I, Gina Ortiz Jones, mayor of the city of San Antonio, in recognition thereof, do hereby proclaim April 12th through 24.

Excuse me, April 21st through 24th.

That's giving you more time.

April 21st through 24th, 2026 to be a knight in old San Antonio days in San Antonio, Texas, and offer best wishes to the Conservation Society of San Antonio for a successful celebration for preservation.

Please.

Good morning.

Thank you, Mayor Ortiz, City Council.

My name is Julie Terrell.

I am honored to be the chairman of the 78th presentation of a night in old San Antonio.

Allow me to introduce Louis Vedder, president of the Conservation Society.

You had a few words real quick.

Okay, that's enough.

This is how this organization is run.

Uh Mayor Ortiz and Council and all the visitors here, I certainly thank you for the support that you provide us.

I certainly thank you for the support that you provide us.

It's such a pleasure and a gift for the city of San Antonio.

But really, the Conservation Society of San Antonio is really blessed as well.

And it's through this amazing team of people that Julie Terrell leads as the fourth vice president and chairman of NIOSA that makes it possible.

It's four days of fun celebration.

And we're like everybody, whether you call it Niosa or Niosa, it's the same party, so everybody should come for that one.

And it really does help our contributions to our children as well as our important preservation efforts.

Thank you.

Okay, and let me finish this up.

I want also introduce you to my treasurer, Deanna Kesi and my vice chair, Anita Gonzalez.

The rest of my chairmen are working.

We're already setting up, we're putting up fences today to get ready for the 21st.

Community support is accomplished through the preservation, education, and research programs of the Conservation Society, which provides resources for restoration, rehabilit rehabilitation for historical properties and San Antonio area, including in the city-owned La Vita Historic Arts Village.

Over the past 10 years, Niosa has generated over five million dollars to the city, including millions to La Vita Fund.

We appreciate the City of San Antonio on behalf of the preservation.

Viva Fiesta.

Hello, Viva Niosa.

Come on, y'all.

Viva!

Okay, also look in your little goodie koozie cup.

There's a special medal in there that you have to hold in your hand and you say a little prayer.

It's for that four-letter word that we're not allowed to say so we can have a successful fiesta event.

Okay, now everybody, viva fiesta.

Viva!

Thank you all.

Thank you.

All right.

Next is the Battle of Flowers Parade.

Whereas the City of San Antonio recognizes that the Battle of Flowers Parade will take place on April 24th, 2026, with a theme from Pages to Possibilities, where storytelling, imagination, and dreams leap off the page, take flight, and bloom into vibrant flower-filled wonders, and will be led by Grand Marshal Tim Morrow, president and CEO of San Antonio Zoo.

And whereas established 135 years ago, the Battle of Flowers Parade is the founding event and oldest parade of Fiesta San Antonio, attracting more than 350,000 spectators from across the nation and serving as the pinnacle of San Antonio's Fiesta Celebration since 1891.

And whereas the parade is one of the few in the country produced by an all-woman volunteer organization whose mission is to honor Texas history and heritage by engaging community through celebration, education, and service.

And now with more than 400 active members, this dedicated group of women in bright yellow hats continues a vibrant living tradition honoring the heroes of the Battle of the Alamo, the Goliad Massacre, and the Battle of San Jacinto.

And whereas through the philanthropic efforts of the Battle of Flowers, the organization awards scholarships and grants that benefit students and schools throughout the community, while dazzling audiences with flower-covered floats, giant helium balloons, marching bands, and fiesta royalty.

Now, therefore, I, Gina Ortiz Jones, mayor of the city of San Antonio, in recognition thereof, do hereby proclaim April 24th, 2026 to be Fiat Battle Fiesta Battle of Flowers Parade Day in San Antonio, Texas.

Please.

Thank you, Mayor.

Good morning.

My name is Kathleen LaFleur, and I'm honored to serve as president of Battle of Flowers Association.

On behalf of our entire organization, thank you for including us in today's meeting and the opportunity to share our story with the City Council.

Joining me today is Helen Meyer, Parade Vice President, and Anna Melissa Cavassos, Van Festival Vice President, and all of the officers of our board of directors.

This April 24th, when the first Fiesta Float winds its way onto the streets of San Antonio, Battle of Flowers will proudly mark its 135th year of producing this beloved springtime event.

What began in 1891 as a single parade to honor Texas independence has now evolved into a dynamic force for civic engagement, education, and cultural heritage.

This year's From Pages to Possibilities Parade will feature 200 entries and 10,000 participants representing all facets of San Antonio.

As a nonprofit, all volunteer organization, we remain true to our mission to celebrate Texas history and remain committed to commemorating our past while championing education, service, and community.

Thank you all for the honor of speaking with you here today.

We appreciate you.

And viva fiesta.

Thank you.

Okay.

And the final proclamation is with Fiesta Flambeau.

Whereas the City of San Antonio recognizes that the Fiesta Flambeau Parade Association will host its 78th annual Fiesta Flambeau Night Parade on April 25th, 2026, with this year's theme, Adventures in Toyland, led by Grand Marshal Chamu and crew, and honorary Grand Marshals Ronald McDonald and Friends.

Whereas in French, the world flambo, the word flambeau means flaming torch, and when the sun sets, more than one million lights from the largest illuminated night parade in the nation shine throughout throughout the streets of downtown San Antonio, illuminating radiant royal courts and their lighted finery and showcasing performers, marching bands, and dance teams adorned head to toe in illuminated costumes, all set against the backdrop of a starry night.

And whereas the Fiesta Flambeau Parade has been named the best in the world by the International Festivals and Events Association and Best in Texas by the Texas Festivals and Events Association, as in and is enjoyed by more than 800,000 spectators along its route, as well as an additional 1.5 million television viewers.

And whereas since its founding in 1948, the Fiesta Flambeau Parade Association has celebrated the rich and diverse culture and heritage of the Alamo City by producing a parade that enhances the celebration of Fiesta San Antonio and attracts visitors from across the globe to share the joy of Fiesta.

Now, therefore, I, Gina Ortiz Jones, mayor of the City of San Antonio, in recognition thereof, do hereby proclaim April 25th, 2026 to be Fiesta Flambeau Parade Night in San Antonio, Texas.

Please, good morning, everyone.

My name is Irwin DeLuna, and I'm the current 2026 Fiesta Parade, Fambo Parade President.

I'd like to also join here today by board members uh Sebastian, who is our parade director, Dolores, our public relations, Casey, who is our marshalling director, Cecilia, who's our compliance, and Madeline, our treasurer.

We're we have uh a good group of people that are working very hard to make sure it's successful this year.

Since its inception, the parade's purpose is to plan to organize and produce and stage the Fiesta Flambeau Parade during Fiesta to enhance the experience of Fiesta for all our visitors and those citizens of San Antonio and the surrounding area.

This year the parade will be seen, as you said by a lot of people, but it'll also be seen both in English and in Spanish for all our television at the same time.

So we're we're very happy to be able to have that this year.

Uh it's something we've worked for for a long time.

We're excited about this year's Grand Marshal.

You've heard about it earlier with Shamu and Ronald McDonald, both beloved characters here in San Antonio and very well supportive of us all the time.

The scripts are being finalized.

The Texas Longhorn Band will lead this year's parade again.

We have a 37 additional bands that will be in the parade from local and state um sections across the state of Texas.

We also have we're working nationally recognized Houston County Schools All-Star Band from Alabama and five additional out-of-state bands as well as one band from Mexico participating.

Additionally, we'll have 63 floats from groups and organizations around the state of Texas this year.

Locally, the floats are being produced by our local producer creative uh parade studios, and they're going to bring well to the parade this year with all our floats.

So we're very excited.

Um we want to thank the city of San Antonio for all your support because without your support we couldn't do it.

And we're looking forward to the mayor, the police chief, and the fire chief all being part of the parade and traveling down the streets of San Antonio and being wowed by all the citizens of San Antonio, and we want to thank you all for that.

And to that viva fiesta.

Yeah.

Thank you.

I know my colleagues uh would like to say a few comments.

Let me um just one, thank you for being here today.

It's always um a very special time in our community, uh a great time to celebrate and really a great time to also showcase uh the wonderful uh representation of service all throughout.

I mean, each of you are volunteer organizations and work on this year round to put on a great show, not only for our community, but as you all mentioned, for the uh thousands of visitors, hundreds of thousands of visitors, and as I mentioned, also those that will come to experience San Antonio through through their television.

Um I can think of my own fiesta experiences, uh having been on a uh parade in the uh battle of flowers when when John Jay was in there and um our theme was Greece.

I won't tell you which character I was.

Um I was also a I know, I know.

I was also uh a pooper scooper one year at the uh Battle of Flowers parade, and then of course the uh we had the opportunity with the Philippine women of America to be in the Philipp uh uh in the Fiesta Flambeau where we proudly showed our shoes.

So it's a it's a very special event for our community.

Thank you again for all the hard work that you have done and will do, and of course, make uh um put our best foot forward for our city.

Thank you.

Let me, I know my colleagues would like to say something.

I'll start over here.

Yeah, Councilman Mungia.

I was most prepared.

Um, first of all, thank you all so much for being here and adding all this color and fun to our uh meeting, and with all the bags, it's certainly something that we needed here, so thank you for that.

Um and you know, as Marisa, while it's such a a large event and a lot of fun, we have to remember all the purpose that's behind it and all the fundraising that y'all do and the tie to education, which is one of the most important issues of our city, uh, and y'all are there plugged into that.

So thank you so much for that.

It also happens to be my partner Kelly's favorite time of the year, so uh this is the most fun that we're gonna have this year, so we're very excited for that.

And um I also want to take the opportunity to uh plug ride share and via opportunities for our residents and for all of us here today.

We need to make sure that we get to places safely to and from.

And uh this time of year is always precarious and there's extra precautions made.

Uh, but we want to make sure people remember the upper the tools they have in front of them.

Maybe not Waymo, uh, but there are plenty of other options there.

And I wanna, you know, based on what the mayor just said, I want to do propose another group to add to a fiesta, perhaps maybe the order of the pooper scoopers.

Um the first year could be all of us, I think.

That'd be fun for all of us to do that role.

Uh but thank you all so much for being here.

We look forward to seeing you all at all the events and for supporting our kids in the city of San Antonio.

Thank you very much.

Thank you, Councilman.

And if we are not there when you're there for the pooper scooper, just wait, we're we're on the way.

Um Councilman McKee Rodriguez.

I don't know how to follow that.

Uh what's I think there's a few things that I love about San Antonio.

One, we can march, we have some of the largest marches in the country, we can parade, we have some of the largest parades in the country, we can party, obviously, biggest party, most fun party in the country, and then we also can serve.

And I appreciate that each one of you, in addition to the lives that you live outside of your roles here, uh, you're also contributing and giving back to our community in such a meaningful way, uh, to not just our economy, but to uh people who really really depend on the services that you are helping provide and that you're helping to uh empower, empower.

Let's go with that one.

Uh I look forward to attending each of the events.

I look forward to uh getting to see each of you.

Is the person who made our uh stoles and sashes here, the team?

Okay, well, I look forward to seeing you at the at the uh the river parade.

Um what I also want to convey, I give a challenge to y'all every year.

Yeah, remember what the challenge is.

So when I look into the crowd, I'm looking for the salad, right?

I'm looking for the paill, I'm looking for all the different pieces that could be missing.

And you know, I'm wondering where's the the Beverly Watts Davises of the world, where's the uh the Tony Gradneys, the uh Bonnie and Francine.

That there's people that I feel like could be here and could be of service, and uh I'd love to to see a little bit more representation from the black community specifically.

I know that you guys are each committed to diversity and inclusion and all of these things, and I would love to see next year just a little bit more.

So that's my small challenge.

Wouldn't it be me if I didn't give it?

Uh, but again, thank y'all so much for your service and for uh your willingness uh to contribute to San Antonio in such a meaningful way.

Thank y'all.

Councilman Galvan.

Thank you, Mary.

And thank you for everybody who came out today who make Fiesta possible every single year and such an incredible success.

Fiesta's one of my favorite times of year.

Uh I've been a long time Fiesta Medal Collector, and for those who've already asked me, uh the medal's on its way.

And the sash will be worn next week when Fiesta starts.

But nonetheless, very excited to have it all come together.

I want to reiterate some things that uh my colleagues have said, of course.

Thank you again for all the folks here who are committed to public service every single day.

Not just at this time of year, uh, but year-round, uh, who helped make uh strengthen our education system here and help strengthen public services all across this entire city that many of our communities rely on.

And I also have to say, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for having the Longhorn Band lead the Planbo Parade once again.

I am a proud Longhorn and always very excited to have uh them lead the Flambo Parade.

So I'm excited to be there and hook 'em.

View Fiesta.

Councilmember Castillo.

Thank you, Mary and good morning, everyone.

Just wanted to commend each and every one of you all and y'all's organizations for all y'all do to ensure that San Antonio continues to party with a purpose.

As already stated, the amount of impact that y'all have with the fundraising uh is unmeasurable, right?

And I think back to my time at Cons Garden Elementary School where Rey Fayo would come, give us a medal, um, share what kind of work they were doing, but of course, read stories to residents.

And I know it's not limited just to District 5, but as mentioned, it's all throughout the city of San Antonio in which y'all have impact and give back.

Uh and I can't count the amount of times that I volunteered alongside your organizations, whether it's with the House of Neighborly Services to wrap gifts for kids or seniors.

Um, but it's such a great impact that each of your organizations have.

Uh, and I would be just remiss if I didn't highlight the ways in which it keeps giving back, right?

So I appreciate the history and you walking us through the first Fiesta Medal, because every year our constituents ask, what's the medal going to look like?

What is it?

When can I get grab one, right?

But it's provided us as a council office an opportunity to also give back.

For example, last year um for a donation of Pampers, we are trading our medals for parenting plus a nonprofit that provides uh parents with resources and parenting classes.

And this year we're fundraising to help give back to SCI C teachers that live within District 5.

So we're trading our Fiesta Medal for a donation and a gift card so that way when we go back to school, we can contribute to our teachers that live in the district to do whatever they like in their class.

So just wanted to appreciate and highlight uh the work that you all do.

Uh, and then of course, allowing us as an office uh an opportunity to also continue to give back.

Now, we won't be raising the millions, though I would like to, in terms of uh um the fiesta medals, but we know the impact that y'all have is very great.

Extremely grateful for the work that each and every one of you all do with your designated organization.

Thank you all, and Viva Fiesta.

Councilmember Corr.

Thank you, Mayor.

Thank you all so much for everything that you do for Fiesta and all of your different respective ways.

I had a chance to actually sit with Karina yesterday, and um I also had a chance to talk to someone yesterday where we were discussing that people literally plan their entire conferences and trips around Fiesta, and then you all have to maneuver and figure out a way to make it possible.

Um, so we just want to thank you all for everything that you do because it is truly the highlight of our city.

Everyone plans their year and all of the celebrations around this event, and we know what it is.

It's again my the reason why I love it the most is because it's not just Mardi Gras where no offense, I feel like you're just partying, but this is actually partying with the purpose.

So every single event that happens is a fundraiser, and we're funding something, whether it's a student trying to pay for books in college, whether it's a little league baseball field that you guys are helping with lights on, whatever you all are fundraising for, it will go to better our community.

And that is what we have to remember, even through the tricky conversations that we know we have, is that we are doing this collectively as a whole for our community.

So I thank you all for everything that you do.

And viva fiesta.

Viva.

Councilmember Aldrate Gavito.

Sorry.

Uh well, good morning, everybody.

Thank you all so much for being here.

This is definitely like my favorite city council meeting of uh of the year.

Um, you know, Fiesta is the most beautiful time of the year.

I uh want to make sure I don't forget anything, but first off, I want to thank the the Fiesta Commission, um, Steve, Fern, Allison, Jim, and all y'all's teams.

Thank you so much for organizing all of this for the whole city.

So we really appreciate all y'all's work.

I know y'all start the day after Fiesta starts.

Uh Fiesta is over.

So thank you so much.

And and yes, uh Fern is uh District 7 resident, so I'm especially excited about that.

Um, you know, we are all gonna make memories at the Texas Cavaliers River Parade.

It's such a beautiful parade every year.

It's that is just such such a phenomenal evening.

I mean, the city looks so beautiful.

So thank y'all so much for for all that y'all do there.

Ray Fayo, yes, um, Councilman Castillo.

You know, we all remember, I know y'all visited my daughter's school.

Um, I think y'all are especially proud of the beautiful and smart Karina Agion there.

So thank y'all so much for all that y'all do and all the the funds that y'all raise for scholarships.

You know, it is it is truly remarkable work.

Umsa, I know our our district seven resident Patty is is extremely involved.

And um, if y'all haven't had a Maria Strotilla, y'all need to get one because they are so good.

Um, and this is actually just what did it go?

This is so beautiful.

This this Niosa Fiesta medal.

It's really nice.

Yeah, a job well done.

Uh Battle of Flowers, you know, I take my girls every single year, and it's just one of those core memories that that all San Antonians have of being at the Battle of Flowers Parade.

So I know it's no easy lift, so thank y'all so much for for all that y'all do for the city.

Um, and I know that we work with Sapoa to make sure everybody's safe there.

So thank y'all so much for for all y'all's efforts there.

And then Fiesta Flambeau, Mr.

Deluna has known me since I was at St.

Paul's.

So it's nice to see you leading that effort.

Um, it sounds like it's gonna be an amazing event this year, and I'm looking forward to to taking uh my girls there.

But you know, all of our efforts combined, you know, um really help the city shine again.

Like I said, it is the most beautiful time of the year in San Antonio, and and to know it is all purpose-driven is it's just it's a reflection of of our city, it's a reflection of our community.

So thank y'all so much for y'all's efforts.

Thank you.

Councilwoman Councilman Mesa Gonzalez.

Thank you, thank you everyone for being here today.

I heard uh salad, I heard Bahia, but I did not hear chicken on a stick.

So hopefully we do not forget the original chicken on a stick.

Um, thank you to Fiesta Commission, Battle of Flowers, Niosa, uh, the Texas Cavaliers, uh Ray Feo Court, the Fiesta Flambeau Parade, and everybody that's not here that's doing the work uh to make these next 10 days so special for our city.

Uh, you know, most of the events happen downtown, but it really does touch every part of our city.

I see uh Mr.

Nick Garza, a former Ray Feo number 40, and I think they're on number 70 now.

Um, so he is my neighbor in District 8.

Um, and there's just a lot of wonderful people in this room, like everyone has said, as volunteers that are doing so much, and and the love really shows through.

So uh we recently went to uh Texas Cavaliers Art Contest to celebrate Catherine Pyle, uh, our district eight finalist who's a fourth grader at Northside ISD Carnahan Elementary.

It was a wonderful event.

Uh those kids were so happy to be there just to be finalist was just so exciting.

Uh the work that you're doing in our schools and with VIA, uh, which was great that their their art pieces are gonna be driving around all of San Antonio.

So uh we in District 8 are hosting a Fiesta Medal giveaway.

We're having four of those.

Um, and those are uh supporting animal care services and the San Antonio Humane Society.

We have a mud a number of medal meetups in District 8, uh donating uh any item of pet food or cat uh dog food or uh cat food, and you'll receive a medal.

So we're doing our part in District 8 to support Fiesta and Viva Fiesta.

Councilmember White.

Thanks, Mayor.

Um, what we know in this room is is we have a special unique culture here in San Antonio that that is that that is ours.

And never or nowhere is it seen more than during the couple of weeks of uh Fiesta.

We we are a collection of uh personalities, different groups from all different um backgrounds with with different ideas, and we all come together uh during these two weeks to uh not only celebrate San Antonio um but do it for a for a good cause.

And um I I won't belabor uh many of the points made by my colleagues, but but I'm uh I'm thrilled you're all here.

I'm excited about the next two weeks, um, and I'm very grateful more than anything uh for everything that that you all do for this city because it is a uh it is a team effort, and and for San Antonio to be um what it is.

Uh we need everybody pulling on the same end of the rope, uh doing their part uh to make this a better place.

And uh you all are a shining example of that.

Thank you for what you do, and viva fiesta.

Okay, thank you again.

We don't have any uh points of personal privilege.

Oh, I'm sorry, Councilman Spears, please, please, please.

Thank you.

I'm I gotta tell y'all, I'm just so excited.

This is my first um fiesta at Bun Council and I love Fiesta.

Um it makes our city just so so special.

All of you look stunning in the regalia and I just love the pomp and circumstance of this.

It's it's just almost magical.

And um I really love the tradition and the spirit that this brings our city together.

No matter what we look like, where we come from, what we are all friends and family in San Antonio around Fiesta.

And I just I just am excited to be a part of it in a different way this year.

Uh the parades, the festivals, uh the chicken on a stick.

Yes, she's right.

We we go around trying it all the different chicken on a sticks, and we love that.

But um thank you so much for what you're doing for our community and especially to the Fiesta Commission for the money you're raising for the charities and for the kids because that's what this is really all about.

And we're doing it disguised as a party, and that's super slick.

I think that's really a good strategy there.

So um it's important to recognize all the nonprofits and organizations that take part, and this is a big deal for a lot of them.

This is a really big part of their year.

So uh I encourage all of the residents, especially in D nine and all over the city to be involved.

Um I also want to say that uh thank you to our first responders for all you're doing to keep us safe as we party along all for two weeks.

And I want to remind everybody to take the via link, take the Uber and use the stone oak park uh park and ride.

We have like several events out that that we're going we're taking apart in.

So um but again, just thank you so much for all you're doing.

And this is what makes us unmistakably San Antonio, right?

So Viva Fiesta, y'all.

Councilmember Vieger Thank you.

I I hope you all can hear me.

I'm gonna keep it quick.

Um thank you so much for everybody who came presented.

I am very excited about the Fiesta.

I don't know what I can pick first that I like the most.

Uh, but I do want to give a shout out to um the Fiesta Commission and Steve appointment to the visit San Antonio board.

I also want to congratulate Tim as the Grand Marshal for the Battle of Flowers.

You know I really want one of the gorillas there, but we'll take you instead and uh great call to the Battle Flowers Association and the night parade.

Um while I didn't go to UT, it's okay that you start with them.

So I thank you all so much.

I look forward to seeing you all there and uh getting my chicken on a stick from Niosa.

Thanks.

Thank you.

Um I know the council would like to take a picture.

Um so if one if the person that spoke um would join us for a picture up front, thank you.

Nothing else going on.

Thank you again to everybody.

The next item is the city manager's report.

Maria, over to you.

Thank you.

For this city manager's report, what I would like to do is provide the council with an update of the resolution that was approved by this body on February the twelfth related to supporting evaluation of strategies to protect all San Antonians.

One point that I want to highlight is that this data by ICE is regional in nature and not specific to San Antonio.

Also, the data is updated by ICE and in terms of timeliness and accuracy.

Now, in terms of those actions that are in progress, uh, we have talked about training for city staff on response protocols when ICE enters ACD facility.

So our human resources uh department in coordination with city attorney's office have conducted in-person sessions for our library department, human services, parks and recreation, metro health, development services, and set in center city development office.

The training for the remaining department is ongoing.

Another update is related to uh city council policy to deter future private for-profit detention facilities.

I would like to inform the council that we have posted uh yesterday for next week's A session agenda of April 16th, the necessary changes to the city's unified development code that will regulate private detention centers.

Also, John Peterek, assistant city manager, will be meeting with you one-on-one beginning next week to brief you on the proposed uh changes that will be for your consideration again next Thursday.

Continuing with actions in progress, uh, the council requested a report mechanism for community to report or log alleged rights violations.

We continue to work on that, and what we're focusing on is a couple of options.

We're evaluating an option for the city to be able to uh record those um alleged violations or have a third party do it.

We have conversations with some um organizations for that, the ability to do so.

So we anticipate that that will be completed by April 15.

Just as a reminder, this will be just a reporting tracking mechanism, but the city cannot act on those reported alleged violations.

In relation to a justice fund to support nonprofits uh or those victims of ICE activity with legal status, the legal criteria is being evaluated that would mitigate risk, and that is anticipated to be completed by April 15.

We will report that to council, and any budgetary impact will be discussed as a part of the fiscal year 27 budget process.

We'll have our goal setting session with the council in May.

Um, another action was the establishment of public signage, informing residents and businesses of their rights.

So we are and have evaluated available public signage that was developed by third parties, and that evaluation will be completed by April 15th, and that those that information will be posted on the city's website.

We're also exploring whether a third party can assist us in promoting distribution of those materials.

And we included in the PowerPoint as one of the backup slides that signage for for your review.

Now moving on to procurement actions that are also in progress.

Uh, you'll see on slide six that they are um five different actions that are being evaluated by our city's uh teams departments, and we will be presenting potential implementation options to the economic workforce development committee next month in the month of May for discussion of the committee and evaluation.

And finally, we have a couple of actions that we uh continue to evaluate uh related to detention facilities.

Uh one is related to an assessment and determination of whether facilities and activities comply with applicable federal laws, including environmental law.

Uh and that is um in an evaluation at this point.

Uh, we're also looking at uh inclusion of federal legislation and action to prevent andor end the use of any facility in San Antonio in our legislative agenda.

Our teams have been in communication with our federal delegation who's aware of the city council position on the issue, and this is being considered as we develop the federal legislative program for the 120th Congress that will begin later this year.

Finally, Mayor and Council, this updates, this presentation and the ones that we've done in the past will be posted on the city's website for our community to review under the compliance access and opportunity office web page.

And that concludes my report, Mayor.

Thank you, Maria.

Appreciate the um the updates on each uh thorough updates on each of these uh on each of these items for everyone's awareness.

Yesterday I uh sent a letter uh to the new DHS Secretary Mullen um expressing um my our the our community's uh continued lack of interest in hosting uh an ice processing facility um mentioned that I had communicated similarly that message to his predecessor, uh did not receive um uh feedback on that.

And just a reminder for for those watching that you know my my office nor the city staff uh have yet to be communicated formally uh with anybody at DHS regarding the proposed ice processing facility on the east side to this day, despite uh the months of requests for information.

So again, that outreach has gone to Secretary Mullen, and uh we hope to have a more productive and transparent dialogue with his office versus what we had with his predecessor.

Um a couple of points of of clarification on your presentation.

I know we had um it was raised uh by a couple of folks um about again the the the um economic consequences of some of these activities.

So on on slide four, um I know last we spoke about this, we had talked about getting the input of some of our economic development partners to ensure that um the uh proposed code changes were reflective of their input.

Um I know Greater SATX, for example, was uh asked to to part in that.

Can can you give us a sense of which of our economic um stakeholders may have informed uh the proposed code change Mayor?

I'm gonna ask John Peterek, who's leading the effort in the code changes to address that question.

Thank you.

Mayor, so um, as far as uh both the uh we're amending several pieces of city code with what's before you next week, but um the the UDCP sent has gone before the zoning commission this week, um, and there are various stakeholders who are paying attention to that.

There has not been any direct involvement with SAEDC or other uh economic development organizations to ensure that we are fully and I can appreciate the number of stakeholders that that participate in that.

I think it would um behoove us though to formally hear from our economic development partners to let them know one, what we're contemplating, and to formally hear their input on many zoning decisions.

We are constantly considering again what this may mean for us economically.

So I want to make sure in this very important discussion that we we hear from them.

So I'd like us to do our part to transmit that them to them for their awareness.

Now, if they choose to apply, that's that's one thing, but transmitting is something I'd like to do.

Yeah, mayor.

We can do that today.

We have a draft uh red line change of the pieces of city code.

We can share that immediately.

Thank you.

Um, Maria, on on slide five, establishment of public signage informing residents and business owners of their rights.

Thank you again for for this update and appreciate the timeline.

Can can you probably just a little more fidelity though?

Um so I know we're looking at a third party that may assist to promote distribution.

Um, how would a business express interest in um getting a copy of that material?

Is that how would we do that?

So that's one of the pieces that we're evaluating in terms of the distribution and how we make those businesses aware.

So I'm gonna ask Liz to give us more specificity.

Thank you, Maria.

Good morning, Mayor and Council.

Um, just for purposes of options being explored, um, we've worked on identifying potential signage that is along the lines that we understand of the potential information that you think would be valuable to businesses having.

As part of the discussions, we're looking at whether a third party is even possible for purposes of distribution or whether it's simply something that we make available potentially on the city website, and then we work with engagement somehow, some way, to be able to notify and create some sort of awareness that it is available in the event that they choose or would like this.

So, to your question, Mayor, that's part of what we're working on in these next couple weeks, so that we know what our options are, and then that way we can present to you those options and you can give your input in terms of how best.

Um, so that is what we're working on currently.

And if I understand that correctly, um, so it's going to be information that's available potentially on the website, and then in in practice, then somebody would go on there and say, Oh, that's something I think would be useful.

They would, in theory, then have to print it themselves and then post it in their business.

Is that hypothetically that could be one option, Mayor?

There could be another option where we pre-print and make available potentially through your offices that are throughout the city.

If somebody wants to be able to get one easily, um, it's not uh logistically, I don't think there's a lot of barriers to that.

So we have options and we could explore those with you.

Okay, thank you.

Yes.

Umy, did we have a timeline regarding the national firm for the uh EPA portion?

Actually, we have engaged a firm already, Mayor.

Um so uh they're preparing right now essentially the court documents we would need uh to file a complaint, and um that's about as much detail as I'd probably want to give here in a public session.

Okay, I know that one's a big one, so thanks for what you sharing what you what you are comfortable with sharing at this point.

Okay.

Um those that would like to provide comments or questions on this questions on this, councilman.

Anything?

No, anything, anything, anything, anything?

Okay, all right.

Thank you for the update.

Councilman Via Gran, did you have any questions or comments on the update?

No, thank you.

Items four through twenty are on the consent agenda.

This means they will be considered as a group, um, and there will not be a staff presentation unless pulled for individual consideration.

Are there any items council members would like to pull from the consent agenda to be heard individually?

Anything on the right side?

Nothing.

Item 17.

Item 17.

Councilman Galvan item 17.

Anything else?

Nothing, okay.

Okay.

Okay.

Item 17 has been pulled by Councilman Galvan for individual consideration.

We have several individuals that have signed up to speak on the consent agenda.

Actually, all those now are on individual.

So we have nobody else signed up to speak.

Okay.

Given the item was pulled for individual consideration.

There's nobody that is signed up to um to speak at this point.

Okay.

Is our motion to approve the consent agenda absent item 17?

Okay.

It is moved in second to approve the consent agenda item number 17.

We have several highlights.

I'll start with um councilwoman Core.

Thanks, Mayor.

I have two quick highlights.

One is item number seven, which is approving a least and use agreement agreement with the San Antonio Tennis Association for the McFarland Tennis Center, which is the largest public tennis center in regional Southwest Texas.

And so we're really excited to continue partnering with them to be able to offer this service to our residents and to the community at large.

I every time I go over there, I always see so many kids playing at the center, which is generally a space that is not provided for a lot of our families, and so excited that they're gonna be continuing to offer that at San Pedro Springs Park, which is our 10th most historic park.

I'm looking at Homer.

Thank you for everything that you're doing there.

Um, I'm also excited to highlight item number eight, which is the temporary closures of streets, y'all, just temporary for FIESTA, which is coming up.

But in the temporary closure, we're also going to be celebrating the full opening of South Alamo.

And so I want to say thank you to our Capital Delivery Department's lead Mike for getting us.

I can't believe we're saying it.

I told everybody not to hold our breath last year, but I'm really glad to be celebrating Niosa and the opening of South Alamo next week.

It's we're gonna do a little celebration next Wednesday in the afternoon.

So we hope to see everyone there so that we can have a new hashtag South Alamo is open, and we're gonna have a really cool fun photo scavenger hunt for folks that CNE and the downtown office is working to coordinate for us.

So thank you all.

We're finally there.

All right, thanks, Mayor.

Councilmember Spears.

Can y'all guess what I'm gonna talk about?

Item number nine.

This is about our airport.

Today we are recognizing an important step forward for San Antonio International Airport for District 9 with the acceptance of a 12.5 million dollar FAA grant to support the new terminal development.

With this award, the airport has now secured a remarkable 91 and a half million dollars in federal funding for the terminal development program with additional applications still pending.

This does not happen by accident.

This is the result of a disciplined strategic approach to pursuing every available funding opportunity.

Under the leadership of Jesus Science, alongside Grant Administrator Melissa Rivers and the entire airport team, they have truly looked under every rock to bring federal dollars back to San Antonio.

Their strong partnership with the FAA continues to deliver real results that directly benefit our residents, travelers, and local economy.

We are already seeing the impact of that hard work through ongoing improvements and recent enhancements at the airport that are elevating the passenger experience and preparing us for continued growth.

This investment positions San Antonio to remain competitive, improve connectivity, and support the billions in economic activity tied to our airport.

As the new terminal moves forward towards its anticipated opening in the second quarter of 2028, this funding ensures we are building the infrastructure our city needs for the future.

I want to commend the airport team for their persistence, professionalism, and commitment to delivering for San Antonio.

This is exactly what it looks like when you when strong leadership, smart strategy, and federal partnership come together to move our city forward.

So thank you very much.

Thank you.

Councilman White.

Thanks, Mayor.

Well, um, I'm highlighting item 20, and this item has been a year and a half in the making, and I'm proud that we are finally here.

Um we are here to um talk about David G.

Evans Memorial Highway.

And for for those that that don't remember, it is uh I met Mrs.

Evans uh at the polls back in 2023, and she told me the story of her brave um late husband, Officer David Evans, uh, and he how he gave 37 years of his life to law enforcement, including 30 with SAPD.

Um there was an event several years ago where he was shot multiple times responding to a domestic disturbance, and uh he survived and he returned to duty that day and served until retirement, uh but he carried the wounds from that day for the rest of his life, and he ended up he ended up passing away from those injuries in February of 2022.

Uh this is a life worth honoring.

Uh, this ordinance authorizes a memorial marker on loop 1604, designating it David G.

Evans Memorial Highway.

And to the Evans family.

Um, you know I always keep a picture of David here with me on the dais.

I want to thank you for your patience throughout this process.

Thank you for trusting us to get it right.

Uh I promised you we would make this day happen uh that day at the polls, Mrs.

Evans, and I'm very, very proud uh that we are here today.

Officer Evans sacrifice will not be forgotten uh in District 10 and in all of San Antonio.

Uh and with that, Mayor, I believe there's a member of the family uh that is here and that would like to say a few words.

Yep, please come forward.

Good morning, mayor and the sitting council.

My name is Lorenzo Tarrasas.

I'm a son-in-law of David Evans.

Um Elizabeth Evans is not here to to deliver uh she's traveling currently, but to deliver the letter.

But the the letter goes as there's not enough words to express my gratitude.

We have in honoring David.

The thought of driving down highway, we travel often, and seeing his dedication to our families, patriarch, will bring a sense of joy and pride, knowing that David's legacy will continue, and that his life mattered.

Councilman White, you've made a promise that day that I met you, and thank you so much for keeping your word.

That speaks volumes of your integrity as a public and as a human being.

You would always hold a special place in our hearts of our family.

Thank you for honoring not only David, but to every San Antonio police officer who daily lay their lives on the line to serve our community.

This San Antonio owes a debt of gratitude to each one.

Every officer work together to take care of our great city.

I am proud to be part of the city.

And the city's blue family with extreme gratitude.

Elizabeth Subins.

Thank you.

God bless you.

Thank you.

Councilmember Castillo.

Thank you, Mayor.

This morning I would like to highlight item number 14 and 15, which is the reappointment and appointment of Robert and Fuzzle to the building and standard board.

This is a very important board that's qualified quasi-judicial that has the ability to issue a demolition or repair order for structures all throughout the city of San Antonio.

So these individuals are tasked with prioritizing the public health and safety of San Antonio residents.

So grateful for their service, and of course, to the PANI Community Development Committee who vetted the applicants, to the chair, and then of course all the members of that committee.

But I would be remiss if I didn't think the clerk's office who pre-vets those applicants for us to take action and to the deliberate on.

Again, just really grateful for these appointments, and again highlighting the fact that this is a very uh vital board to the city of San Antonio, and just um was impressed with these applicants.

Thank you, Mayor.

Are there any other highlights on the consent agenda?

Okay, great.

Um I'd like to highlight Robert uh Mihara, who is uh my appointee to the streets, bridges, and sidewalks advisory board.

Um Robert is uh an army veteran, uh long line of uh service to our community, and I look forward to his thoughts and his and input into uh making this a uh as robust as it can be.

So thank you for your stepping up to serve again.

There being no further discussion, there's a motion and second to approve the consent agenda uh minus abs uh minus item 17.

Please vote.

Okay.

Councilmember Via Garan, we would need a verbal.

Thank you.

Aye.

Hold on.

Mine's not working.

I, yeah.

Okay, the motion carries.

Item number 17 was pulled by Councilmember Galvan for individual consideration.

Councilmember, uh, would you like a staff presentation?

I'm sorry.

Oh, yes, please.

Madam Clerk, please read the caption.

Item number 17 is an ordinance amending the agreement with Rafael Consejo Educational Foundation for the Fiesta de los Reyes event at Market Square to establish hours for the event, ticketing during some event hours, setting an initial gate fee, and establishing a revenue share related to ticket revenue.

Revenue collected by the city will be deposited into the market square fund.

Please, thank you.

Yes, we do have good good morning, everyone.

Um, Shannon Miller, the chief downtown officer, and we do have a brief presentation if you'd like for me to go through it, or I can just answer questions, whatever you prefer.

Presentation.

Okay.

All right.

So since 2010, the Ray Feo Consejo Foundation has produced the Fiesta de las Reyes event in Market Square.

And it is an event that lasts the whole the extent, the whole 10 days of Fiesta, and it is the largest, probably the largest event, uh, attracting about 250,000 people each year.

And um last year, as a result of security enhancements, um, the Consejos saw a financial loss and that that we're trying to address this year.

Um, several safety and security enhancements that were made relate to perimeter fencing and controlled entry points so that people are screened before they enter the area.

So they do go through the magnetometers and there's a bag policy and all of that, so the uh attendees are all checked for security reasons.

Um there were also some other adjustments related to moving stages around to allow for better security, um, not allowing access to the parking deck by the public, so that is also restricted, and then reducing uh the actual hours of the event at the event itself.

Um so the amendment that's before you today, the current contract for the event goes through 2030, but um the amendment to that contract, it would allow for a $5 gate fee during peak event hours.

And those hours, and then it also sets the uh event hours, and so most of the days the event would be from 10 a.m.

to 11 p.m.

The only exception being on the night of the parade, it's open until midnight.

Um there is a uh cost, like basically a uh financial share to the city at some point.

The fiest the Ken Say Houser would retain the first 250,000, which essentially is intended to allow them to break even because of the increased security costs and the cost for the fencing and the cost for the ticketing system.

And then above that 250,000, there is a cost share with the city.

And so, based on previous years attendance, we estimate the um amount to the city being around $37,500.

Um, so staff does recommend approval of this contract amendment as presented this morning, and I'm happy to answer any questions.

Okay, thank you for the presentation.

We're going to uh let's see.

Yeah, is there so for you?

So motion and a second for approval so we may begin discussion.

Second.

Okay.

It has been moved and seconded to approve the item.

We have several individuals from the community that have signed up to speak, and I'll call them the in the order that they signed up.

Um, every individual will have three minutes.

The first person is Thelma Gonzalez, followed by Yvette Ramirez and then Veronica Sandoval.

And if you would please line up behind the speakers so um we can move through this.

Thank you.

Good morning, honorable mayor, city council members.

My name is Thelma Gonzalez, and I have been a business owner at the Farmers Market Plaza for more than 35 years.

This is a family-run business built through decades of dedication, cultural pride, and service to our community.

Today, the Farmers Market Plaza is home to 54 tenants, all of whom are now business owners of San Antonio.

There are over 100 local owned businesses in the Market Square area.

We open 350, excuse me, 356 days a year, except major holidays.

Like any other business in the city of San Antonio, we pay rent, utilities, and sales taxes, a portion of which directly supports the city.

Our businesses also create local jobs, support family livelihoods, and contribute to the tourism economy that San Antonio is known for.

Market Square has always been a free public space, a place where locals and visitors can enjoy our culture, food, music, and traditions without barriers.

For this reason, we are deeply concerned about the proposed five-dollar entry gate fee being submitted for ordinance amending the agreement with Refeo Concejo Educational Foundation.

This would fundamentally change the nature of market square.

A celebration meant to bring the community together and to create, excuse me, and not create financial barriers.

The business owners who have who have sustained Market Square for decades to find solutions that supports both the city and the cultural and economic vitality of this historic public space.

Thank you.

Good morning, Mayor and Council members.

So I'm not here to rain on anybody's parade.

I'm just here to speak on behalf of our association at Market Square.

I think it's too important to allow it just to pass on a consent agenda.

It is an issue that involves the citizens of San Antonio and the small businesses that are currently at Market Square.

My name is Yvette Ramírez, and I serve as the president of the Farmers Market Plaza Association.

I'm here today respectfully to ask that you stand up for the constituents and for the small businesses that have served the community for generations.

Market Square has long stood as a place where cultural family community come together.

And I know we've discussed this in the past.

For decades, Fiesta at Market Square has recognized a free family-friendly and event given back to the citizens of San Antonio, a celebration that welcomes working families, visitors, residents without barriers to entry.

Our tax dollars have historically supported the security and safety of this event.

It's our understanding that the city allocates approximately 400 to 600,000 in public safety resources during the Fiesta event, ensuring that the community can have greater safety.

These are public safety expenditures made by the city for the benefit of the public, not cost carried by the consejos organization.

In 2024, entertainment programming decisions made by the concejos brought an unusually large number of minors to Market Square.

Unfortunately, in this in that environment, some poor decisions were made among those minors, which led to incidences that have seen been seen to justify the use of of the restricting our public space.

But we must ask ourselves the more important question.

Are we solving an existing problem or are we simply creating a new one?

On February 25th, we called we were called to a meeting by the director of the Fiesta de los Reyes and the City of San Antonio, CCDO.

We were advised that on that day that uh by Mr.

Stevens that the concejos were advising us of a $5 fee that would be implemented this year.

When we voiced our concerns, we were told by Mr.

Stevens that this was a done deal, surprising our board that we had not heard already that this issue had been voted on.

Because of this proposal to implement $5 admission fee raises serious concerns for the businesses and families who rely on Market Square as an open and accessible public marketplace.

Any organization coming before this council with requests that would restrict access.

Is there somebody that'd like to give you their time?

I'm sorry.

I would like to concede my minutes.

Your name, ma'am, Veronica Sandoval.

Okay, great.

You've got an additional three minutes, ma'am.

Thanks.

Thank you, Mayor.

Any organization coming before this council with a request that would restrict access to public space should be required to demonstrate financial need and provide transparent financial records.

If that is not required in this case, then in essence, the organization is asking city council to make the decision to charge Fiesta visitors, not the concejos.

And by allowing this to be buried into a consent agenda would have been non-justifiable to the public.

And that raises a larger concern that continued lack of transparency.

For example, as of yesterday, this organization has not submitted a map to the TABC commission showing where it is intended to expand alcohol sales.

This leaves many unanswered questions for the businesses operating inside the farmers market building.

Will they request expanded liquor license that surround farmers market building?

Will our customers be prevented from entering the event space with a beer or wine beverage that was purchased inside our building?

Again, this is a lack of transparency.

There are other examples as well.

When the city originally contracted with the organization, Market Square was included in a revenue sharing agreement that allocated portion of the beverage sales back into the Market Square funds, specifically 75 cents for beer, 25 cents for soda and water, which have never increased, although their prices have.

Allowing any third party to control access to a historical cultural public asset sets a dangerous precedence.

Once the doors open to privatizing a public space, it raises questions on what other public spaces in San Antonio could be subjected to the same treatment in the future.

Market Square belongs to the people.

It is a place where culture, tradition, commerce, coexisted for generations, and it should remain open and accessible to the public.

It was created to serve.

Market Square does not belong to an organization.

It belongs to the people of San Antonio, and it should remain open to them.

Thank you very much for your time.

Reverend Sylvia Vasquez, followed by Roman Pena.

Good morning.

Mayor and members of City Council.

I'm the Reverend Sylvia Vasquez, and I reside in District 4.

I'm a third generation San Antonio-born Tejana, and I have enjoyed the fiesta season for many years.

Growing up, my father never paid for any entrance fees for any of Fiesta.

I remember that we would bring produce baskets to sit on to watch the day parade.

We would bring sandwiches, and my dad would make donuts so that we wouldn't have to buy any food.

We would walk around the carnival area, and perhaps my father would let us get on one or two rides.

Having those options made it possible for our large family to enjoy some of Fiesta.

I appreciate the difficult and complex decisions and the task before you in leading our city and making those decisions on behalf of the people of San Antonio.

But I am here today to express my concerns about the proposal to charge a five-dollar fee for entrance to the Market Square Fiesta activities.

In today's economic climate, it would seem imprudent and perhaps even cruel to impose more expense on the people who attend the Market Square activities.

Just this year, parking for the rodeo in February cost me 40 dollars.

I can only imagine how much it will cost during Fiesta.

In my 73 years, I can remember only twice attending Niosa or most of the other events that Fiesta offers because of the expense.

Please don't create a barrier to those who have always felt able to participate in this historic area.

May God bless you and give you wisdom and compassion as you make your decisions.

Thank you.

Roman Pena, followed by Elaine de los Santos.

Good morning, Madam Mayor.

My name is uh Nick Pena, also known as Roman Pena.

I'm a uh retired merchant from the El Mercado, and I was uh asked to be here today because uh something was gonna happen.

I have not been involved in the discussions of this uh uh fee that the Rey Feo wants to charge to get into the mercado, but I wonder I want to be here to give you uh a little bit of history about the fiesta, you know.

I've been at the mercado for 50 years, so we've seen fiesta 50 times, and this time has never been a charge there.

And the reason is this uh sometime back when we had the event, uh we were the sponsors and we're the creators of Fiesta del Mercado.

Um we wanted to charge a dollar to come in because of the cost of uh things there.

And the city council at that time, which was once at least, and Walter Martinez and the mayor said no, Nick.

That place is a people's place.

We're not gonna charge them anything.

We're gonna be this is the free event, it's been for a hundred years, and if a market, and we're gonna leave it like that.

And we always only wanted to charge a dollar, uh, Madam Mayor.

So today, like this lady just explained to you, five dollars, and if you have a family of four, that's almost twenty dollars.

And then the parking, they're gonna probably uh scam the people there, they always do, uh to be about $30, Mayor Mayor.

So this council here has to have an understanding of what that area is.

That is an area of the people that have come there for hundred years, maybe on fiestas, but probably more than likely in the last 50 that I've been there to enjoy the music and the food and also to collaborate with one another.

So you have this great responsibility to keep it a people's place.

They've called me to come here and testify because they say the people need the protection.

Otherwise, we're gonna have to declare la huelga again.

We don't want to declare the huelga, uh, Madame Mayor, and uh we're very fortunate to have you here as a mayor because we worked very hard to get you elected.

Uh I recall that it wasn't supposed to be you, it was supposed to be Rolando Pablos, but uh you're here, and we're going to stay focused on this issue, and also on ICE.

We're very much involved on the ICE issue.

In fact, we had a meeting last night.

We had two meetings.

One was Calvert, the Commissioner Calvert, and the other one with the Democratic Party.

We know that the Republicans want that detention center to house our people, and uh we asked the the ones that at least have a little compassion to think about that prison.

Thank you very much.

Elaine De los Santos, followed by Henry Rodriguez.

Thank you.

Thank you, Mayor and City Council for having us today and for all that you do for our wonderful city.

My name is Elaine de los Santos.

I'm the interim executive director for the Rey Feel Concejo Education Foundation.

In collaboration with the Rafael Scholarship Foundation, Fiesta de los Reyes has always been a celebration for our community, and that will not change.

The question is why introduce the fee now and why the timing?

To produce content, a formal debrief was conducted following Fiesta 2025.

In June of 2025, the City of San Antonio, which I'm going to refer to as COSA, and Fiesta de los Reyes, which I'm going to refer to as FDLR.

Leadership met to review strength and areas of improvement.

One of the key takeaways for the success of enhancement security measures.

SAPD reported our mate no major in incidents, which was this which was a significant achievement.

However, prioritizing safety came at a cost.

FDLR as a nonprofit incurred a loss of approximately 143,000 dollars due to increased security expenses.

In December of 2025, FDLR formally submitted a proposal outlining cost and hours.

In February 2026, COSA issued a memo supporting the $5 gate fee and proposed schedule.

While concerns were raised, we listened carefully and made adjustments.

By March of 2026, after further discussions with COSA and the tenants, we reached a compromise.

So again, kids 12 and under are always free.

Hours of operation and proposed gate times are as follows.

Fiesta Los Reyes will be opened from April 17th to the 26th from 10 a.m.

until 11 p.m.

until except for midnight on the night parade, April 25th.

The fee schedule is as follows April 17th, Friday after 6 p.m.

April 18th and 19th after 1 p.m.

April 20th to 22 20th to the 23rd, Monday through Thursday after 6 p.m.

the 24th to the 26th, Friday through through Sunday after 1 p.m.

If approved, the event will remain free during daytime hours on weekends and early hours on the on the weekends.

Thank you, ma'am.

You can submit the rest of your comments for the record.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Henry Rodriguez, followed by Frank Garza, the final speaker.

Thank you.

Henry Rodriguez, I'm the executive director for LULEC Concilio Zapatista, and I'm also the national civil rights chair for the organization.

I want to tell you that this five dollars that is proposed is going to affect the people that are very low income and they very low income status.

Maybe buy a soda.

These are the same people that go to Market Square to watch their favorite band, maybe buy a beer, but that's all they can afford.

They bring their family.

And those areas, those people go to fiesta.

Um, and the ones surrounding it, that's a low income area, especially District 5.

So it is a burden.

And these people just want to go and have a good time and have been, we have been going.

I was raised in the courts, and we used to go just to just to see, just to watch, have a good time, just by watching the people ride.

We could not afford it.

Today it is hard to go and also and buy a $10 taco.

But you still go for the excitement.

And you're and it seems like they are being targeted, especially when somebody makes a comment that this is going to be imposed to keep the rift rats out.

And that comment was made, and that is very unacceptable, and I take exception to it.

I don't care who made it, but it was made.

And I you want me to ask you who who told me, I will tell you, but I'm not at this time.

But it is insulting, and it you they're bacon on the lowest of the lowest people in the income levels.

One day they will raise up because they get educated.

But at this time, they need for market square to be for everybody.

There's all kinds of uh, these are the people that go to the parade and stand, they they do not because they cannot afford the chairs.

They're too expensive.

20 dollars right now, or maybe more.

So at this, I am just telling you right now that I expect we need some heroes to step forward and say, yeah, I'm for the people, I'm for everybody.

It's fiesta is for everybody.

Everybody's gonna be celebrating at their own level, each one.

So I'm asking you right now, please do not let this happen.

I don't care where it comes from or who's proposing it.

I am all I also stand with all the the merchants there at the and market square, farmers market, all of them, because those people work year round, and anybody that comes for temporarily, they have to work around their schedule and not the other way around.

Thank you, sir.

Thank you so much, okay.

Frank Garza.

Good morning, Mayor, Council, Maria, Andy, nobody ever says hi to the city attorney.

Um it's interesting being on this side instead of that side, but I just wanted to point out that my name is Frank Garza, and I have been the chair, co-chair, and tri-chair of Fiesta dos Reyes at Market Square since 2011.

I will tell you that as a child growing up on the southeast side of San Antonio, there were two events my family took you took us to, and you've heard from the some of the speakers.

The parades, bringing our own food, and market square.

I will tell you, and my board and members of my organization will tell you, I have fought for years to keep this event free.

Because it is the people's event.

Just like Ray Feo is the people's king, this is the people's event.

However, last year's with the increased security, which I will tell you, everyone who went to that event was so impressed with the increased security that I have heard from folks who said I had never been to Market Square, but it's great.

The increased security is a great benefit to this event, but it comes at a cost.

Market Square is proposing a $5 fee during certain hours, 10 to 6 almost every day of the week, it is still free.

I, as former city attorney, remembered all those times I went over there for lunch during Fiesta at Market Square, taking staff and so forth.

That is still available to everyone here to go down to to market square for free.

We are proposing free hours on weekends.

We won't be kicking people out when we start charging.

Once you're there, you are there.

Yes, I know that a $5 fee is uh could be burdensome to some families.

But again, it's only for 13 and over and only certain hours.

We need to raise the funds to continue our scholarships for our community, and that's the purpose of our organization.

You heard Ray Fail earlier discuss that.

And so what we are proposing is a reasonable amendment.

And one thing that's not been pointed out, you saw the income share with the increase fee.

The original contract and the contract we have in place, 50% of all our revenue goes to the city of San Antonio to help pay for that security you are providing.

We're not keeping all of the revenue.

50%, whether it's sponsorships, whether it's the sales of alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages, and this the sale of our vendor booths that we charge for the folks during those 10 days, 50% of all that revenue still goes to the City of San Antonio and will continue throughout this contract.

So I ask for your support on amending the contract to allow for that fee and other amendments.

Thank you very much.

Thank you.

Councilman Galvan.

Thank you, Mayor, and thank you, uh Shannon Miller for the presentation as well as for our conversation this morning.

I really appreciate uh a conversation early in today to kind of go through some of these details.

Um given the larger context, right, of this entire conversation, the kind of uh requests from different residents in my community who have asked about what is this gonna mean for market square, what it's gonna mean for Fiesta.

I wanted to make sure we had the opportunity today to kind of clear out what's gonna happen uh or what is possible to happen and to make clear uh what the intention is, right?

Um I think we all know we want to make sure that Market Square and all of our fiesta events um are as safe as possible throughout the entire season.

That's plain and simple and clear.

Obviously, those security costs or the security measures come with the cost.

And so it's just a matter of trying to figure out is this the best way to go about it?

Um and if not, what other options are available and to go from there?

But at no point do I think in this conversation should we consider that nobody wants extra security there.

Regardless, we know we need that there at Market Square and across the board at Fiesta.

So I just want to make that clear that that's not my intent to say to remove any kind of additional security, but just a matter of how do we go about it and what's the practice here, in particular for the market square, given the fact that it's historical use of it being free uh for all families here in our city.

So with that, uh I know we had a couple of different points made by public comment speakers, um, but I wanted to ask um Shannon or or John about uh could you walk through a little bit um you know when this process uh began, uh, who was at the table for it, um, and how this fee would work day to day.

I know we heard some different things about the kind of timing, and I so I'm trying to understand a bit more about uh when the market square vendors are are open, when market square events for fiesta would take place, and just kind of how that all wraps together in an actual day-to-day operation.

Sure.

Um of the questions about the timing of these conversations.

I might have to defer to John Jacks because I haven't been in this role a super long time.

And thank you for coming up in the media.

I will do my best, and then um he can help me if I if needed.

Um so I know uh and I think one of the speakers today talked about the fact that that so the the consejos provide their um costs and expenditures for the event to the city so that we can verify the how much money is owed to the city based on the cost share and revenue share.

And so those conversations started, you know, a few months after the event after they had their financials figured out.

And that's when there, you know, the discussions about the five dollar fee.

And I also know that the um C C DO staff has tried has met with the tenants association at various points along the way.

And as you heard from some of the speakers, um the original proposal was to start charging the fee at 5 p.m.

and all day on the weekends.

And so there were some concessions based on those conversations with the tenants and concerns about people who are used to going there for lunch, as another speaker mentioned, or um going wanting to go there during the day.

And so um more recently in the last month or so, the the proposal was changed to um 6 p.m.

on most of the days um for 13 and up, so 12 and under is free all the time.

Um on the week on the first weekend on both weekends and the second Friday of Fiesta, it the charge would start at 1 p.m.

And so again, that's intended to allow for people to be able to go at no cost in the morning and through lunchtime, even on those busy days.

And um the tenants typical uh schedule of operation are 10 to 6, but the c their contract does allow for extended hours to be requested, and so it is typical that the tenants have been allowed to stay open later during the event.

And so um, as I think another speaker mentioned, they they are open, the building closes at 8 30, and then so people who are kind of in the farmers market space at 8 30 can go ahead and be served, but um then the building fully closes at nine.

Got it.

Thank you for that.

That's helpful just to kind of help frame what this is really gonna be impacting here and there uh throughout this entire process.

Um the other thing I wanted to ask was could you talk about the difference?

I know we mentioned the security provisions in the presentation, but can you talk about the difference in the security provided by SAPD and then by the contracted services that uh we're looking at here?

Yes.

So um the existing contract um requires that the city SAPD provide general event security.

So the officers inside the footprint and overall security for the event as they have in previous years.

Um the additional cost that the consejos cover are for the private security that does the screenings for people who are entering the event.

And so they pay for the the perimeter, the um the screening, and the ticketing platform.

Right, thank you.

So of course the bag check in, all those things like that.

Exactly.

Um can you remind me how much the total cost is for that contracted uh extra security?

So between the the perimeter fencing, like the additional cost because of those security measures, it was uh about a hundred and forty thousand dollars um that in additional cost, and then um and then there is that additional um 100,000 that the consejos provide for scholarships that obviously isn't covered if they don't make enough revenue.

Right.

Okay.

Thank you for that.

And I guess my my question isn't necessarily to you, but overall, maybe to uh to Maria or to Ben about are there any other options that we can provide uh to the city um just to kind of lay that out there about how we could potentially continue to have the security there but fund about the fee in place.

Um councilman, if I may to answer your original question in terms of some background and context, how we arrived to this um uh gate fee.

Uh a couple of years ago, there was an incident on Market Square that um required for both the consejos and the city to sit down after the event and do a review of our security measures and things that we could do better to ensure that the event is safe for the public.

So as part of those discussions and coordination with the uh city manager, the police chief, the consejos myself, we met several times, and uh the the measures that uh Shannon described in terms of the fencing around the event, having individuals that are taking in what is being brought to market square, those expenses were to be covered by the consejos and the city committed to increase our police presence at the time.

So we committed to an additional roughly 250,000 from what we were spending a couple of years ago.

So the the in terms of additional options, that's what we started discussing a potential fee, trying to balance the security, the expenses to the city that we're already spending additional dollars with the public um and public safety and the opportunity to have a very small charge to offset some of the cost of the consejos.

Got it.

That's helpful.

Do we know how much it cost total for SAPD to provide that uh extra security?

So in total, uh last year we spend about $690,000 in total security for market square.

We're anticipating that's gonna be around $730,000 for this year.

Okay.

Um and for the do we already have a security company selected for the contract for this one yes, and the consejos they are responsible for the contract for the the private security that they pay.

Okay.

So where those contracts will be taking place, whether it's the Alamo Dome or Convention Center or something of the sort.

Just wanted to see if that was something that would be possible.

And you can give back to me as the conversation goes forward.

But just wanted to ask that question.

Otherwise, I think those are all my my general questions there.

And thank you for again the presentation and for helping answer some of these questions that the community's been asking, as well as of course many of the tenants have asked as well.

Um that's certainly appreciated.

Councilman, to answer your question, I was being informed that um they already use Consejos use the same contractor that we have for the Alamo Dome.

Uh, in terms of when you go to an event to the Alamo Dome, those individuals, the screen individuals when they come in is the same contract that we share with them.

So they get the same pricing that we do.

Okay, I got so just the same pricing in terms of having that shared one.

And there's but there's no way to amend that contract to allow for the those same not the same people, but same company to do that security.

Yeah, just to further clarify the fact that they utilize the same contractor that we use, given the fact that we have much more events throughout the year, it gives economies of scale so they get a reduced price that if they were to do it on their own.

So that's already an advantage that they get by using our contractor.

I see.

I I understand that one and I appreciate that, but I guess my larger question was would it be possible for them to provide that security directly without an additional fee, given the fact that we're already contracting with them?

And it's a facility that we do own.

I know it's a private event, technically.

Right.

And and there's no available budget, like the the revenue that comes from the event that goes into the market square fund, like the market square fund still does not make money.

And so there's no available funding in the market square fund for us to cover additional security.

That's what I was wondering where you know if it could be possible where that funding would then come from, too, right?

Okay, thank you for that.

Councilmember Corr.

Thank you, Mayor.

I want to thank my council colleague for pulling this item.

Um, Shannon and the team for your hard work on it, the consejos for working with the tenants as much as possible, and for all the tenants and folks that came out to speak on this item.

When I got first got elected, one of my first meetings that I had was with the tenant association and the farmers market folks, and we talked about a lot of the issues, and the number one issue that we discussed was the HVAC.

And I know that has been really challenging if you go over there.

And I want to thank Councilman Castillo for her leadership on the West Side Tours that actually was able to fund the rehab of the HVAC.

Um at first we thought we were gonna have to shut down businesses again for a long time, and we faced that already with the construction and the construction that's almost also already done on Zona.

Um full done, full done on Zona Cultural, which we worked together with city staff to make sure we try to do as much as we can reduce rents during that time because it we all know that the construction affected the folks coming to the businesses.

So city staff and I really tried to help reduce the cost during construction, and we didn't want to do that again during the HVAC installation, which is a necessary improvement.

So I'm pleased to hear that the team is coming up with the solution, still in the works, but coming up with a solution to keep market square open so that we don't have to shut down the building as we um install HVAC.

So that's a uh one purple lining in this situation.

I also want to thank you guys for your advocacy in working with the consejos.

I know it's a 10-day event, but it's a 10-day event that truly makes a significant amount of the money for the businesses that helps keep them going.

And so it's important for us to make sure that everyone is benefiting.

So one of the things that um the consejos were considering doing was increasing the rent for folks to be able to sit out on the patio and sell.

And so that for this year has been dropped back to the price that it was previously as well.

And so I I thank you guys for working on that because we want to make sure that they can still ha see the benefit from this event and from all of what you guys are doing to bring folks there.

Um I do understand this is a really tough situation.

I I was actually in some of those meetings after the really sad death that occurred, and it was not just one, it had happened a couple times in several years.

And and the day after something tragic like that happens, everyone stops and pauses and thinks, what do we gotta do to make sure this doesn't happen again?

Because even just one single death at an event like that can truly scare families from coming back.

And so the intent and I fought last year when we started fighting, and some of the folks know I said no, y'all can't charge.

This is our only last free fiesta event, and we pushed and we tried and and we were gonna try to help fund with city dollars, and there's we know we're coming up into budget conversations.

Unfortunately, no city dollars to be had to help support the extra additional security costs.

And so it's a very tough situation when you're debating public safety uh with keeping an event free and accessible for the community.

And so I in I truly understand the want you families wanting to come and be able to experience and so if it were me and with the parking issues, I would take via from my house, I would take the two down, and I would get in at 5 45 PM and get my ticket in and enjoy the band and be able to access it still for free.

Um I think one of the things with the security that we do get to prevent is the bring the bringing of outside alcohol, which was a challenge in the past, which caused some of the issues that we were seeing.

And so I do think we're gonna pilot the strategy.

Just one clarifying question, Shannon.

They can't increase the price or change the schedule and through the end of the term of the lease unless we change it, right?

Correct.

Okay, so that's through 2030.

Yes.

Okay, so we have a couple of years to assess and see how it goes.

I think there's a fear that this becomes no offense, some of our other events that we love for f love so much in District One that charge almost $30 for a ticket, but we want to make sure that does not happen.

And so um that families can still access and purchase their favorite stuff at Market Square.

So um I'll just end by saying, like, let's make sure we're being mindful, and maybe we can even create a program at the Consejo that offers free tickets for families on the weekends that really want to go that can't afford to come.

Um and I I'm sure you guys will come up with something creative to make sure that this fee does not inhibit families from enjoying Fiesta.

So um thank you all for your work.

Thank you for your advocacy.

We'll keep fighting, we'll keep working together to always try to make sure that Fiesta stays a party with a purpose.

Thanks, Mayor.

Councilmember Gavito.

Thank you.

Uh thank you to the speakers who came out.

Thank you to Councilman Galvan for pulling this item.

I'll be brief.

Uh you know, I know Fiesta serves many purposes for all of us, all the memories that we make there.

Um, but at its core, you know, it is uh raising money.

Well, it's this event in particular is raising money for scholarships.

So when they are operating at a loss, we have to we have to think differently.

Um and and I do hear the concerns from the business owner owners about making sure that these events are accessible.

And um, I know um Elaine and and Frank, y'all mentioned the accommodations that you all are making to where it is still very accessible, like all the hours, children under 12 free.

So thanks for for working on it.

It's it's not a perfect solution, but um, as Councilman Galvan mentioned, um, we need to do what we need to do to keep our events safe.

Uh and and that's that's a must.

Um I think count Councilman Corps just mentioned, I mean, if you I mean, just the thought of something else happening will scare a whole lot of other families away.

So this is a a step that we unfortunately have to take in today's day and age, and and so uh I'm on board with it.

Thank you.

Um Councilman McKee Rodriguez.

Thank you, Mayor, and thank you to everyone who came out to speak.

Um I was literally just speaking with an organization earlier this week, and we were talking about public markets and we were talking about the Pearl and we were discussing uh others across the country, uh, and my chief of staff brought up Market Square as sort of a model market uh that feels intrinsically San Antonio.

Um at his face, you would read about this fee and think, oh, security costs money, the organizer uh the organizers need to cover the cost somehow.

Um but then you read comments and you see people saying things like, oh, this will finally keep the Edgers out.

And I have to call that what it is, which is racist and classist.

And I agree with Mr.

Pinya, who uh who said that people are saying we're going to keep the undesirables out of Fiesta.

You see young brown boys and automatically assume trouble.

When in reality, children and families are begging for things for activities and family-friendly uh things to do in our city, uh, and Fiesta does offer that opportunity, and sometimes an expensive one.

Uh, but market square again is always accessible.

Uh and the intent of the fee again may be simple, but the impact could be a very slippery slope.

Uh and I want to paraphrase a few things that I that were said today that stood out to me.

Miss Gonzalez mentioned that the fee will fundamentally change the nature of Market Square.

Miss Ramitas uh mentioned that Market Square should exist without barriers to entry and without restricting access to a public space.

Reverend Vasquez mentioned that Market Square was one of the only places she and her family could go for Fiesta because so many others came with entry fees and urged us not to create a barrier for those who have always felt welcome to participate.

And those all touch on the challenges that I've had with this item.

And I do hear those who say, oh, well, you know, if you can't afford uh the five dollar entry fee, you're probably not gonna be able to afford the hundred dollars that you would easily spend uh at the different vendors and whatnot.

And a few things can be true.

One, people do save up money so that they can take their family and have a good time.

Two parents can save a hundred dollars to spend on food and fund for their 14 and 15-year-old, uh, but now they're paying $20 before they even get inside.

So that's a 20% in cost to do the same thing.

And two, Fiesta is not about the money, it's not about spending money when you're there.

It's about being in community, it's about experiencing the people of San Antonio without uh prejudice and without barrier.

Introducing a five dollar fee as a start, but then it becomes an opportunity to limit access even more.

It can easily become a ten dollar fee, a fifteen dollar fee, a twenty dollar fee.

When does it stop?

And so I wish we had taken an opportunity to workshop this as a body uh before it b before it came to an A session.

Uh and because these security measures went into place last year, everyone knew before last year's budget discussions began that security had a cost associated with it, and I don't know why we wouldn't try to find some other way to fund the security measures, especially because the event um is such a benefit to our city.

Fiesta as a whole is a huge economic and cultural benefit to our city.

And so I know Councilmember Galvan was just what asked this, but I want to hear it in uh I want to hear it together.

What is the total cost of these security measures?

I heard last year it was 690k in policing, it's 730k this year.

We're anticipating 140,000 in additional costs.

Is that it?

And then there's the 100,000 in scholarships.

Is that it?

Um, Councilman, and I'm gonna ask Shannon to help me.

The the records that I have is for the total cost to the city.

So yes, you are correct.

Uh $690,000 was uh the security costs to the city in fiscal year 25, and we're estimating about $730,000 was f fiscal year 26.

Now the consejos incurs an expense for security, and um Shannon, if you could uh indicate what that amount is.

Yes, and I and you are correct.

I think the the expense that they incurred last year for the added security was about 140,000.

And then uh I I don't know what if you know maybe those contract costs have gone up a little bit this year, um, so it might be a little more than that this year.

Do we know how much do we know how much the is raised typically?

Um I know well I don't know that I do know that.

I'm sure the consequences can answer that question.

Would someone mind thank you for the question?

So last year, again, unfortunately we lost 143,000, and the year before we actually raised about 85,000.

And so that includes these costs and everything else that goes with the I guess what is that, what is the budget?

I guess would be what the with the revenue and expenses.

What would that look like?

Roughly, I mean, roughly again, it's usually about a million dollars to raise to you know put this together.

And so again, I mean it costs us a lot of money to put this event together as well.

So again, in 2024, before all the security measures, we made about 85,000.

Thank you.

Do we know um thank you?

That's that's all do we know sales tax-wise, what's the impact?

For this specific specific event, uh no mayor, I mean no um councilman.

Yeah, I'll do that.

Um we do receive revenue from concejos, a portion of the license license fee and beverage fees that comes to the city to the market square fund, and that last year was roughly about $190,000 of a portion of the revenues that we get from the sales uh again of the uh beverages and the license fee.

What I'm really trying to get at, I guess that's really that is helpful.

What I'm really trying to get at is if we have an event like uh like this, if we're talking about different Fiesta events and we know that they're extremely impactful, we know that underlying it all is um you know, scholarships and philanthropy and the like.

I fail to see how we can't find some means to help cover the cost of security in a multi-billion dollar.

This is what if if the goal is really it's public safety, it's making sure that this event which sees tens of thousands.

How many is it in the hundred thousands?

250,000 people.

I think it's um you know it's up there with MLK and the like, and so I'm wondering.

You know, why not?

Why can't we do that?

Can we figure that out?

Um, Councilman, this definitely a discussion for uh a policy discussion for the council, just to give you some context in terms of all the revenues and expenses that come to the city during Fiesta, not only this event, uh the city spends over and above the revenues that we receive about three million dollars.

Um so any additional costs that the city would incur would be over and above that.

So definitely again a policy discussion.

This was an option that we evaluated with consejos when I indicated that the city increased the cost for security about $250,000, and and we discussed with the consejos for them to also contribute in a way to be able to fund for those security metric measures that we identified.

So definitely a policy discussion just to give you that context that we already spent about three million dollars over and above the revenues that we received.

What does the five dollars hope to raise?

What do you anticipate will be the revenue as a result of the five dollars?

So it's about four hundred thousand dollars that is anticipated, and um they they the consejos anticipates to retain about two hundred and fifty thousand dollars to be used for uh the ticketing and the related security that I described, and the city will receive twenty-five percent of any revenues above the two hundred and fifty thousand.

So roughly we're estimating uh if they collect four hundred thousand dollars, the city will get about thirty-seven thousand five hundred dollars.

I guess in I I see the I see the answer this.

Um it just feel uh what we're what's being asked in addition to what's already being paid feels like pennies.

It feels like we should just eat that, but I don't know.

I I don't know, I can't support the the fee.

Thank you.

Okay.

I want to make sure I there's lots of numbers, so let me make sure I understand all of them.

Okay.

Umsejo you please, thank you.

Sorry about that.

Um so you gross one million and you net 85K.

Well, again, our expenses are very, very high.

Oh, yes.

In doing the math, I can see that.

But that that's those are the correct figures, right?

You gross one million and you net 85k, and that's the 85k then that goes toward the scholarships, is that right?

That is correct.

Okay, thank you.

Um and Maria, you said the city um already contributes three million dollars um in uh toward Fiesta, correct?

For the entire event, specifically for Market Square, it's about seven hundred and thirty thousand dollars net of the revenue.

Okay, so understood.

And that's seven hundred thirty thousand.

Um that's just security.

How much do we pay toward cleanup?

So I'm gonna try to simplify this.

Please.

So I'm gonna use fiscal year 25 numbers.

The city received 190,000 in revenue, and that is from the commissions and the beverage uh commissions that we received.

We spent about 700 in 40,000 dollars that included $695,000 for safety, public safety.

That was police.

And then we had about 43,000 for general maintenance, cleanup, and parking related expenses.

So the net expense to the city was $548,000 last year.

Okay.

So then the $7.30 is already reflective of the cost of cleanup.

Based on what you've described.

Yes, ma'am.

Okay.

I appreciate that.

Thank you.

Walter, would you like to say something?

I think uh Baltic are certain for the record.

Uh I'm one of the other co-chairs with Frank Garza, who's overseen this event for many, many years.

Uh and I think it's important for context purposes, Mayor, to to digress a little bit and tell you how the contract works.

So we're 50-50 partners with the city on this thing.

Uh you when we started this contract back in 2011, the city said we'll you know we get 50 percent of whatever your net revenues are.

It takes us approximately about 750 uh thousand to a million dollars to put this event on every year because it's a 10-day festival with lots of hours in between.

And so it is a very expensive event.

Uh of course uh we like doing it because it provides scholarships for us, but every year it's it's hit and miss because a few days of bad weather kills us.

We make all our money on the weekends.

If we don't, if if we get a rainstorm on a weekend, we pretty much aren't gonna make much money.

And you see that and to your amazement, Mayor, you say you only made 85,000 dollars last year.

Think about that.

We made 8500 for each day that we were out there if you take it over 10 days.

So that's not a lot.

Uh and we're still obligated to give 100,000 dollars in scholarships, and we don't mind that because we that's what we're about.

We're about scholarships.

So it's it's the money that we raise uh in this event, a lot of it goes on to putting it on.

The way we make money is through vendors, sponsorships, uh, and beer sales and bear and beverage sales, water and and coke.

We get all that money combined, Mayor, and then you you get an additional uh surcharge on we have to pay you a surcharge for every beer and every uh beverage we sell.

You we get we have to pay 75 cents for beer and 25 cents for beverages on top of the 50 percent that we're already splitting with you.

So and and the reasoning behind that, and Cheryl Scully was really the brainchild of this many, many years ago, in that she wanted to help defray the the expense that y'all are making with SAPD.

SAPD is a is uh uh a lot of money that y'all spend to help secure this event.

Um in addition to that, whatever y'all have that your half that you get, the city is putting that into the market square fund.

So it is intended to go back to market square to help with any improvements you might have.

Uh and so the the problem is is that every year security goes up, expenses for police officers goes up, and they have to supplement a lot of time the market fund in order to cover that.

So that's why it's been very difficult.

Um we didn't want to charge, but unfortunately, three people have died in the last four years there.

Uh and uh we live in a different world now, and and it's something that we have to do now.

Uh we it it's it's not easy to get organized and and and start charging, but that's what we're gonna do this year.

Uh and and that's the only way that we can continue to have this event be successful.

Councilwoman Mesa Gonzalez.

Thank you.

Just a quick question on the on the are folks able to purchase tickets beforehand or you know, because there's always a lot of frustration standing in line and making sure that the vendors and the folks uh operators, uh the day-to-day folks aren't getting stuck in those lines.

Um have you all planned that out and who's managing the the ticket booth, I guess?

Yes, so that is actually um our plan is to go ahead and put QR codes out, you know, through our websites, through um all of our you know social media and also let them let the media know it after this vote, hopefully.

Um so yes, this way we won't have to stand in line.

Basically, you show a QR code at the door, and then you're able to go through security and go through pretty quickly.

And ticket spices are platform.

And then as regarding the vendors and the the data the folks that have businesses there every day, is there any sort of they have credentials that yeah, they have credentials throughout okay, or their staff, anything like that?

Sure, exactly.

So again, if they tell us ahead of time how many credentials they need for you know their company to run, and so then we give them those credentials and it's again free of charge.

Okay, and I think it would be beneficial just for folks because because of all the construction going on, and so obviously you have rough years, clearly last year was one of them, but if there's any sort of like five-year average or uh one pager that you could provide, I think that would just be helpful for all of us to understand um the benefit of of this event.

It is a kind of a fiesta within a fiesta because it's um the longest event during fiesta.

I don't even think Niosa is a swan, right?

No, it's yeah.

So this is a big one, but just I think for context for us to understand, um not so much on that last year, but you know, for the last five years.

Thank you.

Certainly.

Actually, ma'am, just uh a couple of other questions.

Um so if this five dollar fee is not approved, um, will the private security function still be provided?

Yes, ma'am.

Okay.

Um do we have a sense of um how many fewer officers are needed as a result of this private security being utilized?

Because you're saying it's more secure.

Ideally, then we have we have there's less of a need for for our police officers.

I'm not sure if we've done that analysis though.

Sure, mayor.

So when we work with the consejos uh a couple of years ago, because we increase our public safety, our police presence last year, um, we took into account the measures that they are trying to raise the fee to pay for.

So it's not to offset the current police presence that we have.

It was really a partnership between the consejos and the city to make sure the event is uh safe for the community.

Yeah, understood.

Not meant to offset.

However, if the security itself um results in less need for security as a result of some in fewer incidents, if you will, um, then that is uh helpful to for us to to understand.

Okay.

Um let's see.

Councilwoman Castillo.

Thank you, Mayor, and thank you, Shannon, for the presentation.

I wanted to hear the input from my colleagues before giving comment.

This is a very uh interesting item for me in particular, right?

In the mid-2000s, I lost a friend to gun violence at the carnival.

Um it was when it moved to the Alamo Dome grounds, right?

And hearing the conversation, public safety, and now I'm thinking, is it because there wasn't an entry fee that his was his life life less valuable because there wasn't an entry fee, right?

Um but I'm also thinking about the folks who work at Market Square, whether you're a vendor or a waitress at Mitiata or La Margarita, right?

Um this potentially impacts the the flow of traffic um into the restaurants.

And I I say that as someone who's worked at Market Square from two roughly 2008 to 2016.

So pre-concejo having events uh and then during, right?

And just seeing um the similar flow of participation there at Market Square.

Um and my question is, right, I I public safety is key, and I'm grateful to hear that you all will continue to provide that security if this item does not move forward today.

Um but did y'all have a conversation about potentially transferring the cost associated with additional security onto alcohol sales, right?

Uh because I'm thinking about you know, yes, people will likely buy less alcohol if it costs more, but that's less potential of danger out on the road, right?

So was that something that's board considered?

And what was uh the the discussion?

Yeah, I don't think that was ever considered that I'm aware of.

Um I'm also new to this role, so maybe I might have to pivot.

Anytime uh uh councilwoman, any time we ask for an increase in alcohol, we have to come back to uh city and and let them know that.

And I think we had an increase two years ago.

We try and stay competitive in the market uh and and not outprice ourselves.

I don't know what Nios is charging these days.

But uh I think everyone recognizes too that uh you know our our crowds a little different too.

So we try and try and stay reasonable with the prices uh that we do.

I mean, all that's uh uh good for maybe next year to talk about that, maybe increasing and maybe we don't have to charge the fee.

Uh the a lot of good conversations.

You know, unfortunately there's been a lot of back and forth between us and the city and it got laid on us, and and by the time we knew it February was here, we submitted a letter of December to the city saying that we intended to charge and here's how we wanted to charge.

Uh and uh it it got laid on us, and so uh you know I think the mayor asked if if if the five dollars doesn't pass today, uh we still provide security, absolutely we will, but we're gonna lose again.

We're gonna lose our our money and maybe not be able to provide scholarships uh because of the uh the cost associated.

And to that point on the scholarships, what is the total amount that you all fundraise, uh not just with this event in particular, but in total that y'all raised for scholarships.

Uh over the years it's 11 million dollars.

So uh uh last year, I think Fabian Castillo raised uh it was 750,000 the year before that.

McFadden and uh John McFadden raised a million dollars.

Uh I think Daniel Lee was uh well on his way in the 700,000 dollar range too.

So we put all that money into uh the uh the scholarship uh uh organization and you know this year we had fifteen hundred uh students that have applied for that scholarship.

Uh we're trying to keep the scholarship program alive.

Um again, I mean, we don't want to charge the five dollars, uh, but we we've we feel like we've built in enough free time.

This is just to cover the the acts.

I mean, again, if we don't bring the music, people won't go down to market square during fiesta, and it costs money, unfortunately, to bring those acts to it's 10 days of music.

That's why it's so expensive uh to put the events on.

People will go to market square with or without a line back.

Yeah.

Well, they'll always go to market square, but in the numbers they go, the the music drives a lot of that that we bring.

And so uh, and unfortunately, we have to bring uh those acts, and it's it's quite expensive.

I appreciate that, Walter.

I think, right?

Uh, thinking of the the whole picture and the ways in which the market square community in particular has been impacted with much needed infrastructure.

Uh I don't have any questions for y'all, thank y'all.

Um, much needed improvements to the facility itself, but I think as we have larger downtown conversations, what I've observed is market square can tends to get left behind or the short end of improvements, investment, and prioritization when it comes to ensuring that the businesses and vendors within that facility uh get a fair shake as we talk about expanding and redeveloping downtown.

Um, you know, with this item in particular, I'm concerned that it may be telling of what's to come with the expansion of Project Marvel with our public spaces.

And again, right, we all prioritize public safety.

Um, grateful that you know we have um Sergeant Suarez here who oversees Fiesta of Public Safety with PD, uh, who does a great job in keeping San Antonio and residents safe during Fiesta time.

Um, and I just want to ensure that you know folks who continue to go to Market Square still have that opportunity.

Uh, you know, Henry did a great job of coloring the picture of what Market Square has been to San Antonio, right?

Being accessible to everyone.

Uh, you used to be able to bring your backpack to have your own snacks, and that's why uh I would go to it, right?

Because I'm not gonna pay sorry, $20 for a turkey leg or anything like that.

And or a cover fee.

Um, so right, it it will deter folks from going, enjoying the culture, the music, and the community that ultimately has built and shaped the city of San Antonio.

And when we think of Market Square and produce role and the rich history and culture um that we have within that community, uh it's just uh I'm a bit concerned in terms of how we may prevent more individuals from accessing that space.

And I also want to caution us, right?

Um, because I've heard it um not explicitly, but essentially if there's a fee, it'll deter crime andor criminals, right?

Um, you know, we we got criminals in the millions that commit uh just as bad crimes.

So I just want to caution us from using that language that a five-dollar fee will keep specific individuals from committing specific crimes in this space.

Those are all my comments.

Thank you.

Councilman Mughea.

Thank you, Mayor.

Um, I certainly I'll be as brief as possible, understand the concerns on both sides of this argument.

It's uh it's a really important discussion.

I will say I know Shannon, this kind of fell into your lap recently, uh, but I hope you're taking notes.

And I anticipate that it'll be a much better process next year.

Um, I think this was um not done so well.

Um, and also I understand you know the plot to the tenants, and I've spoken to them, I was an advocate for them for getting additional um rent um taken off of what they owed because of the construction around the area.

So I will tell you, Shannon, I I would say the market square tenants produce row are in real danger uh in the future, and they need a lot more support than we're currently giving them.

So I understand that some of this money is gonna go to that, which is great.

I understand the contract that Walter explained.

But to councilman uh McKee Rodriguez's point and some of the other points that were made, if we have an opportunity to further subsidize this to keep it free in the future, that needs to be discussed this upcoming budget cycle.

Uh, because I don't think it would be too much more for us to invest in Fiesta, but it's a 10-day event, uh great music.

Um, and so while while I will support the issue today, I would say that we need to do more uh and have our role be better and helping to keep it a free event.

I understand costs go up, security costs go up.

Obviously, nobody wants their child to be an innocent bystander at an event where a tragedy happens.

So we need to take precautions, but we as a city need to be responsible and adding to that and trying to keep it as free as possible.

So I understand this year, but let's do better.

Thank you.

Councilmember Viegeran.

Thank you.

Uh totally brought down the Fiesta vibe, but I just want to uh let I want to start with this.

If you are a district three resident and uh Market Square is on your calendar for the weekend and you can't make it, please reach out to the office and we will help you get that entry fee if you're going in at two o'clock or three o'clock during the weekends.

So I am committed to helping my residents, but there are a number of free events around the city to go to that people can go to.

Um I am not for, let me make it clear, underwriting security cost or subsidizing security costs, because I think if we do it for market square, we have to start doing it for everyone, which includes uh the South Side of San Antonio, the the events that on the east side and the west side of San Antonio Pack Fest, why aren't we helping them?

It it just can go on and on.

Um residents of District Three, reach out to us so you can go on the weekend, not for underwriting security costs.

Um, we're gonna have to have some hard conversations and make some difficult choices.

If if this doesn't work out and this goes the way of La Semana del Alegre, then it goes that way.

But we need to sit down and have those conversations.

They brought with us something that we could continue to make money on.

It's not ideal, but we'll do it this year, and then let's have hard conversations during the budget.

Um, but public safety is a priority, and um, you know, one shooting is one shooting too many.

But uh Shannon, my question for you is do we have the hours of operation for the businesses uh in and around the market square?

Are they all the same or do some of them work at different hours?

Um yes, the hours of operation are 10 to 6 typically, but then uh they can request those additional hours.

So during um the during the event, they're open until 8:30.

Can we get a list of those businesses that are staying open uh until eight and those businesses that are closing at six uh as we move forward?

I would I like to see those businesses so we can see how we can help them.

Okay.

And then, you know, we we do we do have to maybe we have too many fiesta events downtown, maybe we we don't have enough.

There's there's lots of places to activate.

So um we can have the larger discussion about who this community is and telling our story, but again, what what I find um upsetting is um is the fact that San Antonio isn't just the original San Antonio.

Um and the South Side, again, is is getting ignored and and they contribute and enjoy Fiesta just like everybody else.

So uh I'll be supporting this today and look forward to that information as we make decisions in the future.

Uh Councilman Galvan on the second round.

I just want to wrap up my comments around just a couple quick things, right?

I think very clear we all agree public safety is paramount to this event and to all events at Fiesta and in general to all the work that we do here.

And I don't think anyone's asking to remove security, the thing that we're looking to fund, whether it's through some kind of subsidy or whether it's through a fee, it's still making sure that security is there.

I just want to make that very clear for the conversation we're having here because I think it's a little bit of push and pull about, you know, we're doing this because it's reason, and we all agree on that.

The only thing that we don't agree on is potentially uh if this fee should go in place or not to cover that, or if there's another way that we could do it.

And I understand at this particular moment it's difficult to find fees or money in the city budget to do so.

Um, but I do, I mean, I echo a lot of the things that my council colleagues have shared about the role that this particular event plays, the role our market square plays in our entire community and culture and recreation.

Um and in our economic development as well.

And I share the the concern too about the fact that this came up through an A session, and I understand maybe it felt a bit smaller uh the back end, but it would have been I would appreciate in the future that we have better conversations about this uh with the council as it's going forward, given the fact given what I just laid out about Market Square and what we've all kind of talked about with Market Square and its importance to our our city and our downtown and our culture, especially especially as we're looking at downtown West and its changes uh in environment and in markets.

There's a clear need to make sure that the public space that we have there is also being leveraged in a positive way for our entire community.

Um being that means uh having better conversations about it in its entirety.

Um so with that, I just wanted to uh say thank you to everybody to answer the questions today, uh, who uh brought this issue to our to our attention.

Um know that we're always trying to find ways to make sure that this particular uh event is accessible as possible uh to all of our our residents.

Um that's the spirit of market square, the spirit of Fiesta, frankly.

Um so I'll leave that there.

Thank you, Mayor.

Any further comments on this item?

Okay.

Uh thank you again to everybody that spoke on on both sides of this issue.

Thank you, Maria, for laying out uh that the city contributes three million dollars um in total to Fiesta.

Um Consejos, thank you for the work that you do to raise money for scholarships for deserving youth in our community.

Um when I just did a quick math though.

I mean, it's spending a million dollars to raise 85k is like spending a thousand dollars to raise eighty-five dollars.

So I know we're gonna have additional conversations about you know what security needs to look like and who funds it, um, but also welcome Consejo's uh thoughts and input on maybe a different model that it helps to generate more revenue.

Um one thing also, Shandon, I think would be helpful to look at next year.

Um there's technology that can help with some of these security challenges that we have.

Um, those folks that have clear at the airport, I don't know if we've ever used CLEAR at Fiesta, but at some of the major sporting events, entertainment events throughout the country, CLEAR is an important partner and may help to defray some of the costs uh at that like we're discussing here.

Um at the end of the day, you know, this really conversation was about who who enjoys and who pays, right?

When you think even about Councilman McKee Rodriguez's uh uh point earlier about uh who's in the salad, who's in the paea.

Um and I'll take up A, it just needs 11 11 spoons.

Um, but ultimately how we best make this an event that is truly uh reflective of uh everybody in our community being able to enjoy it.

So thankful that there will be security provided irrespective of whether this council approves the uh the five dollar surcharge.

Okay.

I'm not working.

Hold on.

Jeez.

No.

The motion carries.

That is the conclusion of our business.

The time is now 11 43, and this meeting is adjourned.