San Antonio Economic and Workforce Development Committee Meeting - May 4, 2026

The Economic and Workforce Development Committee met on May 4, 2026, from approximately 10:35 AM to 11:55 AM. The meeting included approval of minutes, interviews for the Ready to Work Advisory Committee, a presentation on the Supply USA procurement initiative, and a presentation on a second-chance hiring workforce initiative.

Consent Calendar

• The minutes from the previous meeting were approved unanimously by voice vote.

Public Comments & Testimony

• No members of the public registered to speak.

Discussion Items

Ready to Work Advisory Committee Interviews

• The committee interviewed three candidates for the high-barrier organization seat: Barbara Costa, Patricia Cantú, and Angelique Olivera, and one candidate for the trades seat: Michael Peña.
• Each candidate gave a two-minute opening statement and answered questions from council members. Key topics included barriers to employment (transportation, criminal records, disabilities), the need for second-chance employers, and the importance of personal connections.
• Michael Peña emphasized his experience in the electrical trades and union organizing, and his ability to attend all meetings.
• Barbara Costa highlighted her work with youth and individuals impacted by incarceration, and the need for employers to offer genuine second chances.
• Patricia Cantú, a former Ready to Work participant, stressed the importance of assigned coaches and in-person communication to address barriers.
• Angelique Olivera, from Goodwill San Antonio, discussed transportation and transitional needs for individuals re-entering society.

Supply USA Procurement Initiative Presentation

• Melody (last name not provided), representing Supply SA, presented on the procurement initiative. Key statistics: over 4,000 certifications approved in 2025, 1,600 applications processed, 1,300 small businesses assisted, cycle time reduced to 14–33 days, 50 community events, 400+ veterans trained, and $5 million in local contracts awarded.
• The initiative focuses on certification, technical assistance, and agency alignment. Future plans include expanding virtual services, exploring bond and insurance support, and increasing sustainability through corporate partners and legislation.
• Council members discussed the need for better navigation across 14 agencies, tracking certifications by district, and involving school districts.

Second-Chance Hiring Workforce Initiative

• Staff presented a collaboration with Bexar County to reduce barriers for individuals with criminal records. Statistics: 459 individuals found employment through Ready to Work with a median salary of $44,000; 315 hired; 145 used the program to expunge criminal records.
• The presentation reviewed best practices from Los Angeles and Philadelphia, and recommended finalizing an interlocal agreement with the county, updating the economic development strategic plan, continuing ban-the-box policies, and advocating for legislation.
• Council members expressed strong support and emphasized the need for employer engagement, avoiding duplication of efforts, and involving chambers of commerce.

Key Outcomes

• Approval of minutes.
• Recommendation to City Council to appoint Michael Peña (trades category) and Barbara Costa (high-barrier category) to the Ready to Work Advisory Committee, serving through May 31, 2029.
• The committee received the Supply SA presentation and requested a follow-up update on public agency participation and certification data.
• The committee received the second-chance hiring initiative presentation and directed staff to continue coordination with the county and to prepare for legislative advocacy, including a potential trip to Austin.