Public Meetings - San Antonio, Texas

The San Antonio City Council held a zoning and land use session on August 6, 2026, starting at 2:02 PM and adjourning at 2:53 PM. The council addressed individual items after approving a consent agenda and postponing several items to the next meeting on August 20, 2026. Consent Calendar - Consent agenda approved (items 2,3,4,7,8,9,13,14,15,21,22,23,26,29,30): Routine approvals and unanimous actions. Three public speakers addressed consent items as a group before the vote. The motion carried. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 1 (Alcohol variation at 270 Castroville Road): Dua Alfati, owner and applicant, stated the store is her only income and she has four children, one with autism; she asked for alcohol sales to reopen the store. Stephanie Torres, a parent and elected student official, opposed the sale, citing safety concerns for students from homeless individuals attracted by alcohol sales. She noted students would visit the store during school hours and wanted a safe environment. - Item 6 (Auto repair zoning at 9330 NE Loop 410): Jose Gallegos, a former zoning commissioner and resident of District 5, supported the project as an amendment to improve operations at a longstanding business. Reyes Alvarado, the owner, said he needed better working conditions for his 43‐year‐old truck shop. - Items 24 & 25 (Pickleball facility at 5995 Heath Road): Emily Weisler represented the property owner and supported the indoor pickleball use, noting it is permitted in the requested C2 zoning with a larger buffer. Rose Ryan, a resident of 73 years, opposed the rezoning to heavy commercial, citing flooding (Heath Road was underwater on July 4, 2026), loss of protected oak trees, heat island effect, traffic, and inconsistency with the low‑density residential preservation district. She presented a petition from 30 families. - Items 31 & 32 (Auto body repair at 12139 John Smallburg): Sacarí Salazar, owner of BCB Collection, requested approval, stating they voluntarily sought guidance, have five employees depending on the business, and neighbors support the special use permit. He addressed concerns about paint odors, noting both opposing neighbors later brought their vehicles to the shop. Discussion Items - Item 1: Council member Castillo noted the school district sent a letter opposing alcohol sales near the school and moved to deny the alcohol variation. The motion passed. - Item 5: Council member Maki Rodriguez moved to approve the zoning change (R4 to RM4) at 1303 Burleson Street; seconded and passed. - Item 6: Council member Maki Rodriguez moved to deny the zoning change for auto repair, citing neighborhood concerns about industrialization near Houston Street. The motion passed. - Items 24 & 25: Council member Galvan acknowledged flooding concerns in Leon Creek and the need for mitigation of impervious cover. He moved to approve the plan amendment and zoning change with conditions to continue working with the neighborhood association and address public works requirements. The motion required a supermajority; council member White voted yes, and the motion passed. - Items 27 & 28 (District 7 workshop/vehicle rental): Council member Al de Tegavito praised the applicant’s collaboration and moved to approve, noting the neighborhood association supported with some concerns. Motion passed. - Items 31 & 32: Council member Mesa Gonzalez initially moved to deny, but after discussion, Council member Maki Rodriguez moved to postpone these items to August 20, 2026, so the District 9 council member could review the matter. The motion to postpone passed. Key Outcomes - Denied: Alcohol variation (Item 1) and auto repair rezoning (Item 6). - Approved: Rezoning at 1303 Burleson Street (Item 5); Pickleball facility with conditions (Items 24 & 25); workshop/vehicle rental rezoning (Items 27 & 28). - Postponed: Items 31 & 32 (auto body repair) to August 20, 2026. - Consent agenda accepted unanimously. - Items postponed from this meeting: Items 11, 12, 18, 19, and 20 were moved to the August 20, 2026 meeting. - Items withdrawn: Items 10, 16, and 17 were withdrawn.

The City of San Antonio Zoning and Land Use Session was called to order at 2:02 PM on Thursday, August 6, 2026, with a quorum present. The meeting covered a consent agenda, multiple individual zoning items, public testimony, and several votes including continuances and denials. Consent Calendar - Items 10, 16, 17 were withdrawn before the meeting. - Items 11, 12, 18, 19, 20 were continued to August 20, 2026 by unanimous consent. - The consent agenda (items 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 13, 14, 15, 21, 22, 23, 26, 29, 30) was approved with a motion and second, no council discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 1 (270 Castorville Road) – The applicant, Dua Larafati (owner), testified that the store had been closed for three years and that alcohol sales were needed to sustain her family; she has a child with autism and cannot work outside the home. Stephanie Torres, an elected trustee for the local school district and parent, spoke in opposition, citing safety concerns for students and past issues with homeless individuals congregating when alcohol was sold. She expressed support for the convenience store but not with an alcohol license. - Item 6 (9330 NE Loop 410) – Jose Saliegos, a former zoning and planning commissioner, spoke in favor, clarifying the project is a major site plan amendment, not a zoning change. The owner, Reyes Alvarado, testified that he needs to expand his truck repair shop to provide better working conditions for his employees due to longer modern trucks. - Items 24‑25 (5995 Heath Road) – The applicant’s representative, Emily Weissler, described the request for an indoor pickleball facility with noise and alcohol restrictions. Rose Ryan (ceded time from two other speakers) strongly opposed, representing nearly 30 families; she argued that a C2 zoning is heavy commercial, incompatible with low‑density residential and neighborhood preservation districts, and highlighted flooding risks from impervious cover in a floodplain. - Items 31‑32 (12139 Jones Maltsberger Road) – Zach Salazar, representing Busy B Collision, asked for approval, stating they voluntarily approached the city to correct their permit, support five employees, and have since addressed neighbors’ concerns about fumes by inviting them to see their fully filtered spray booth. Discussion Items - Item 1 – Alcohol variance (District 5) – Councilman Castillo reported opposition from the school (Jubilee Academy) and administrators, a history of problems with prior alcohol sales, and a decline in calls for service since alcohol was removed. He moved to deny; seconded and carried. - Item 5 – Zoning change, 1311 Burleson St (District 2) – Staff recommended denial with an alternative of R‑4 with conditional use for two dwelling units; Zoning Commission recommended approval. No public speakers. Councilman McKee Rodriguez moved to approve; seconded and carried. - Item 6 – Zoning change, 9330 NE Loop 410 (District 2) – Staff and Zoning Commission recommended approval. Councilman McKee Rodriguez moved to deny, noting the tripling of footprint (5,000 sf to 15,000 sf), doubling of bays, and the neighborhood’s concerns about industrialization and the nearby ICE detention facility. Seconded and carried. - Items 24‑25 – Plan amendment and zoning, 5995 Heath Rd (District 6) – The applicant amended the request to include C‑2NA (alcohol restriction) and NR (no outdoor sound or live music), plus a 20‑ft lighting pole limit. Staff recommended denial; Planning and Zoning Commissions recommended approval. Councilman Galvan moved to approve as amended, acknowledging flooding concerns from Leon Creek but noting conditions. A supermajority was present; motion carried. - Items 27‑28 – Plan amendment and zoning, 1802 West French Pl (District 7) – Staff recommended denial; Planning and Zoning Commissions recommended approval. Councilwoman Alderete Gavito moved to approve, citing the applicant’s collaboration with the Woodlawn Lake Neighborhood Association, limits on equipment size, an 8‑ft screen fence, and improved vehicle ingress. Seconded and carried. - Items 31‑32 – Plan amendment and zoning, 12139 Jones Maltsberger Rd (District 9) – Staff, Zoning Commission, and Planning Commission all recommended denial. Councilwoman Mesa Gonzalez initially moved to deny on behalf of absent Councilman Spears, but after Councilman McKee Rodriguez’s questions, the applicant explained that the two opposing neighbors had since become supporters. McKee Rodriguez then moved to continue to August 20, 2026 to allow further work with the council member. Seconded and carried. Key Outcomes - Item 1: Denied (motion to deny carried). - Item 5: Approved (change of zoning from R‑4 to RM‑4). - Item 6: Denied. - Items 24‑25: Approved as amended (C‑2NA with noise and lighting restrictions). Required and received a supermajority vote. - Items 27‑28: Approved (plan amendment and rezoning to C‑2NA with conditional uses). - Items 31‑32: Continued to August 20, 2026, for further negotiation. - The meeting adjourned at 2:53 PM.

The San Antonio City Council met on August 6, 2026, for a regular session. The meeting included approval of a consent agenda, public testimony on a proposed entertainment district advisory committee, discussions on eminent domain for infrastructure projects, creation of the city's first Municipal Management District (MMD), and approval of centralized marketing contracts. Consent Calendar - Approved items 7–32 as a group, except items 10, 11, and 23 (pulled for individual consideration). Notable consent items included the designation of José Flores III (street naming after a victim of a traffic accident) and several board appointments (e.g., Adriana Siga, Erika González, Yetun de Taiwano, Catherine Davis to the Historic Board; Dr. Sheryl Bright to the Trinity University council; Jacob to the Sidewalk Advisory Council). Public Comments & Testimony - Susan Scott (former general manager, San Antonio River Authority) spoke in favor of creating the entertainment district advisory committee. She recommended including Bexar County, selecting diverse community organizations (housing, business, transportation, arts, etc.), and ensuring adequate staff support. - Cindy March ceded her time. - Kathy Bell (District 1 resident, 31-year state employee, vice chair of Bexar County Election Advisory Committee) expressed disappointment in the lack of transparency and urgency from the council since the November 2025 election (which passed with 52% approval). She called for a higher-level citizen oversight committee, more public engagement, and emphasized that the project involves public money and land. She noted that many residents cannot afford $150 to attend downtown events and urged the city to go beyond legal requirements for public access. Discussion Items - Eminent Domain (Items 10 & 11): Item 10 authorized eminent domain for the Zarzamora grade separation project in District 5 (12 properties along Zarzamora Street). Item 11 authorized eminent domain for traffic improvements in District 9 (Hibner Road and Stone Oak Parkway, two partial acquisitions). Both passed unanimously with minimal discussion. - Entertainment District Advisory Committee (Item 5): Councilmember Core introduced the resolution to create a 33-member advisory committee to provide recommendations on the $75 million community benefits agreement (CBA) from the Spurs/Marvel project. The committee would meet monthly and report to the council every six months. Councilmember Maki Rodriguez moved to postpone the item to August 19 with consideration on September 3, but the motion failed (voice vote: no). He then offered two amendments: (1) requiring all committee members to sign the city's ethics code (passed); (2) requiring three co-chairs from Districts 1, 2, and 5, and that each council member appoint at least one person from their district (failed). The original resolution then passed. Councilmembers emphasized the need for early community input and representation across the city. - Centralized Marketing Contracts (Item 6): Staff presented a pre-qualified list of 14 firms for five categories (advertising, graphic design, public relations, public engagement, video production) under a $4.6 million annual capacity contract with a 3-year term and two 1-year renewals. No new appropriation; departments will use existing budgets. Council discussed efficiency gains (estimated 6,000 staff hours saved) and concerns about oversight. The contract was approved. - Jones Avenue Municipal Management District (Item 23): This was the first MMD in San Antonio, covering 0.6 acres at Camden Street and West Jones Avenue, formerly owned by CPS Energy and now by M Jones LLC (developer Macon Enterprises). The MMD will issue tax-exempt bonds for infrastructure improvements. The board members (Lawson, Jesse, Pat Bernacki, Andrew Sims, Nick Prater, Nock Warren) were appointed. The project will connect Pearl to the San Antonio Museum of Art, with $300 million in investment. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved (items 7-32, except 10,11,23). - Items 10 and 11 approved (eminent domain for infrastructure projects). - Item 5 approved (creation of entertainment district advisory committee, with ethics code amendment). - Item 6 approved (centralized marketing contracts, 14 firms). - Item 23 approved (Jones Avenue MMD board appointments). - Meeting adjourned at 11:21 a.m.

The San Antonio Building Standards Commission met on August 6, 2026, at 9:00 AM to review several properties cited for code violations and dangerous conditions. The commission heard staff reports, public testimony, and police testimony on multiple properties, issuing orders for demolition, repairs, and abatement. Consent Calendar - Demolition completions: Staff reported six emergency demolitions completed since the last meeting: - 154 Heather Avenue (District 3): Fire-damaged, demolished July 9, 2026. - 611 South Elmendorf Street (District 5): Accessory structure, demolished July 2026. - 1941 Chihuahua Street (District 5): Fire-damaged, demolished July 2026. - 506 Jamaica Drive (District 4): Fire-damaged, demolished July 17, 2026. - 2709 Commercial Avenue (District 3): Mobile home, removed July 23, 2026. - Case removal: Case 8 (3200 Thousand Oaks Drive, District 10) was removed from the agenda due to a court order; not rescheduled. Public Comments & Testimony - Giovanni González (District 7) on 331 Low Drive: Expressed concerns about raccoons, rodents, and bats on the property. He reported finding 15 dead bats in 2025 and 22 in 2026, and that he trapped and neutered five kittens abandoned on the property at his own cost (approx. $700). He requested the board notify neighbors within 30 yards before any demolition. - Lora González (partial owner of 331 Low Drive): Stated the property has been neglected due to threats from a neighbor at 335 Low Drive, who allegedly displayed a firearm. She said she and her husband are contractors but lack funds and fear for their safety. She expressed a desire to repair the main structure but acknowledged demolition may be necessary. - Joseph González (spouse of Lora González): Added that they are obtaining estimates from contractors and dealing with transfer of ownership from the estate of Emilia G. Soto. He confirmed the neighbor issue. - Guadalupe Arroyo and Alma Arroyo (occupants of 4322 César Chávez Boulevard): Claimed they have a mutual agreement with the deceased owner's son to occupy and repair the property. They presented insurance documents and proof of property tax payments (most recent paid in 2026). The board noted the city has no authority to grant abandoned properties and the documents did not prove ownership. The son was not present. - Officer Alejandro Herrera (SAPD): Testified on two properties: - 7102 Shady Grove Drive: Over 34 police calls in three years, including drug activity, vehicle theft, and multiple arrests. Property is near several schools. Owner uncooperative. - 4322 César Chávez Boulevard: Over 70 calls in two years, including a drug overdose, a dead animal removal, a drug bust of 300+ grams, and an arrest of two squatters. Property is near a daycare, a university, and a park. Discussion Items 7102 Shady Grove Drive (District 6) - Staff report: Property owned by Wales (owner not present). Inspections since August 2025 found numerous violations: broken windows, rotting wood, missing siding, exposed interior surfaces, animal infestation, ammonia smell, and water shut off multiple times. Owner's son (Jessy De Hoyos) failed to communicate or repair. City contractor cleaned exterior (cost $226) in April 2026. Water was off again as of June 2026. - Police testimony: As above, 34+ calls, drug and theft issues. - Motions: Commission found the property a public nuisance under code sections 304.3.1, 305.3, 505.3, 702.3, and required repairs, water restoration within 60 days, payment of all abatement costs, and evacuation until code compliance. Owner must also pay $300 in fines. Motion passed unanimously (6-0). 4322 César Chávez Boulevard (District 5) - Staff report: Property owned by Rodolfo Ríos (owner not present). First appearance. Severe deterioration: roof missing, foundation on car jack, rotting walls, exposed wiring, no permits. Squatters present. Property is near a school. Staff recommended demolition. - Police testimony: 70+ calls, drug overdose, drug bust of 300+ grams, arrests of squatters. Property unsafe. - Occupant testimony: Guadalupe and Alma Arroyo claimed agreement with owner's son (not present) to fix and occupy. Board noted no proof of ownership or legal interest. - Motions: Commission found the property a public nuisance, not repairable, and ordered demolition within 30 days, eviction of occupants, securing of property, and removal of all debris and connections. Motion passed 6-0. 2618 Southwest Loop 410 (District 12) - Staff report: Property owned by José González (present). First appearance. Severe structural damage: missing foundation, rotting wood, collapsed sections, no electricity since May 2026. Owner had applied for repair permits but was told it needed over 50% reconstruction. Owner decided to demolish. Pending CPS Energy gas line shut-off. - Owner testimony: José González and Chris Farmer (co-owner) agreed demolition is necessary and are waiting on CPS. Farmer affirmed agreement. - Motions: Commission found property a public nuisance, not repairable, and ordered demolition within 30 days and site cleanup. Motion passed unanimously. 331 Low Drive (District 7) - Staff report: Property owned by Emilia G. Soto (owner not present). First appearance. Main structure and two accessory structures severely deteriorated: collapsed roof, rotting floors, holes in walls, trash, and water damage. No permits. Staff recommended demolition. - Public testimony: As above, neighbors and partial owners expressed concerns about safety, wildlife, and funding. - Motions: Commission found all three structures a public nuisance, not repairable, and ordered demolition within 30 days, with utilities disconnected and site cleaned. Motion passed 6-0. 3107 Hatton Street (District 5) - Staff report: Property owned by Irene Hernández (not present). First appearance. Extensive damage: rotting wood, holes, exposed wiring, squatter activity, trash. Water was active until June 2026; electricity still active. A prior abatement (mowing) and property securing had occurred. Police visited multiple times. Staff recommended demolition. - Motions: Commission found property a public nuisance, not repairable, and ordered demolition within 30 days, with utilities cut, eviction, and cleanup. Motion passed 6-0. 726 Tots Drive (District 2) - Staff report: Property owned by Roger Jones (not present). First appearance. Structure from 1949 with failing foundation, rotting wood, broken windows, trash inside, squatters. No utilities active. Abatement costs noted: $1,072 in 2025 and $847 in 2026, with some discounts. Staff recommended demolition. - Motions: Commission found property a public nuisance, not repairable, and ordered demolition within 30 days, with debris removal. Motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - 7102 Shady Grove Drive: Ordered repairs, water restoration, property evacuation, and payment of abatement costs ($226) and fines ($300). Deadline: 60 days for repairs. (Unanimous 6-0) - 4322 César Chávez Boulevard: Ordered demolition within 30 days, eviction, property securing, and debris removal. (Unanimous 6-0) - 2618 Southwest Loop 410: Ordered demolition within 30 days, site cleanup. (Unanimous) - 331 Low Drive: Ordered demolition of main structure and two accessory structures within 30 days, utility disconnection, site cleanup. (Unanimous 6-0) - 3107 Hatton Street: Ordered demolition within 30 days, utility disconnection, eviction, property securing, and cleanup. (Unanimous 6-0) - 726 Tots Drive: Ordered demolition within 30 days, utility disconnection, debris cleanup. (Unanimous) - The meeting adjourned at 11:44 AM.

The San Antonio City Council met on August 6, 2026, to consider a consent agenda, several individual items, and public testimony. Key actions included approving a new community advisory committee for the downtown sports and entertainment district, establishing a citywide on-call marketing and communications contract pool, and consenting to the creation of the Jones Avenue Municipal Management District. Consent Calendar - Items 7 through 32 (with the exception of items 10, 11, and 23) were approved as a group without separate discussion. Council highlights included: - Appointments to boards and commissions for District 6 (items 16–19): Adriana Ziga (Historic Compliance and Technical Advisory Board), Erica Gonzalez (Commission on Status of Women), Nutanda Taiwo (Commission on Strengthening Family Well-Being), and Kathleen Davis (ACS Advisory Board). - Item 24: Memorial Way designation for Jose Flores III, in memory of a John Jay High School student killed in a traffic incident. - Item 13: Renewal of Title V dental program grant for Metro Health. - Item 14: Nearly $24 million HUD action plan for housing, youth centers, and infrastructure. - Item 9: Traffic calming improvements related to the Green Line advanced rapid transit construction. - Appointment of Dr. Sherry Albright to the San Antonio Early Childhood Education Municipal Development Corporation (District 9). - Appointment of Jacob Chapa to the Streets, Bridges, and Sidewalks Advisory Board (District 7). Public Comments & Testimony - Suzanne Scott (former General Manager, San Antonio River Authority) spoke in support of creating a community advisory committee for the sports and entertainment district. She recommended jointly forming the committee with Bexar County, selecting community-based organizations for membership, carefully choosing chairs, and adequately staffing and resourcing the engagement process. - Kathy Vail (District 1 homeowner, former state employee) expressed disappointment with the city's lack of urgency in public engagement since the November 2025 Prop B vote. She urged the council to create a larger citizens advisory committee with broad oversight, criticized closed meetings of the downtown working group, and called for transparency on a project involving public dollars and land. She noted that the city vote on Prop B was only about 51% and should not be seen as a strong mandate. Discussion Items - Item 5: Resolution creating a community advisory committee for the proposed downtown sports and entertainment district. - Councilmember Corr introduced the resolution as a way to engage the public on the $75 million community benefits agreement (CBA) and broader project phases. The committee would have 33 members (3 from each council district plus 3 mayoral appointments) and meet monthly. - Councilmember McKee Rodriguez moved to table the item to a B session on August 19 and an A session on September 3, arguing that the committee should be created after negotiations, that it weakens the city's hand by assuming $75 million, and that equity concerns (districts most impacted) were not addressed. The motion to table failed on a voice vote. - McKee Rodriguez then offered two amendments: (1) requiring all committee members to sign the city ethics code, and (2) requiring that the three committee chairs be elected from residents of districts 1, 2, and 5, and that each council district appoint at least one resident from their own district. The first amendment passed; the second amendment failed. - The original resolution as amended then passed. - Item 6: Ordinance approving on-call citywide marketing and communication services contracts (14 firms, up to $4.6 million annually, $23 million total over 5 years). - City staff explained that the contracts are pre-qualified pools for advertising, graphic design, public relations, public engagement, and video production. No funds are appropriated at this time; departments use their own budgets or grants. The approach is expected to save approximately 6,270 hours of staff time per year by avoiding individual procurements. - Councilmembers expressed support for the efficiency and local business inclusion. Some raised concerns about potential increased spending, but staff clarified that spending is limited by departmental budgets. - The item was approved. - Item 23: Resolution consenting to the creation and inclusion of land in the Jones Avenue Municipal Management District (MMD). - Councilmember Galvan requested this item be pulled for presentation, as it is the first MMD in San Antonio. The district covers about six acres near the San Antonio Museum of Art, formerly owned by CPS Energy, now owned by McCombs Enterprises. The MMD can levy assessments and issue bonds to finance infrastructure. The city appoints five voting directors (Lawson Jesse, Pat Bernacki, Andrew Sims, Nick Prater, George Warren). - Discussion included the MMD's ability to tax itself, its potential connection to a future TIRS (Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone), and the project's goal to activate the riverfront and connect the Pearl and River North areas. Councilmembers praised the investment and design. - The resolution was approved. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda (items 7–32, except 10, 11, 23) approved. - Items 10 and 11 (eminent domain for South Sarzamora Overpass and District 9 traffic improvements) approved unanimously. - Item 5 (community advisory committee for sports/entertainment district) approved, as amended to include ethics code requirements. - Item 6 (on-call marketing contracts) approved. - Item 23 (Jones Avenue MMD) approved. - The meeting adjourned at 11:02 a.m.

The Historic and Design Review Commission (HDRC) met on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 3:02 PM. Chair Jay Maurice Gibbs and Vice Chair Jeffrey Fetzer presided. The commission considered several Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) applications and conceptual approvals for properties in historic districts. All voting members were present, and a quorum was established. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the July 15, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously (9-0). - Commissioner Jeff Fetzer recused himself from consideration of certain consent items. The remaining consent calendar items (including 538 West Guland Avenue, 1210 Estela Mira, 430 E Commerce, Presa, and Villita 35) were approved as recommended by staff. Items 8, 10, and 11 were pulled for separate discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 10 – 1315 E Pyron Avenue: James Henry, president of the Misión San José Neighborhood Association, spoke in opposition to the proposed new construction, arguing that the front-facing garage would be inconsistent with the historic character of the neighborhood. She cited prior HDRC decisions that required rear parking and referenced the neighborhood design manual. - Item 11 – 503 Mary Louise: Bianca Manala, president of the Monticello Neighborhood Association, spoke in support of the investment but requested several modifications: reduce verticality/massing of the accessory structure, make windows more horizontal, reconsider block walls in a corner lot context, and address entrance/signage consistency. She urged the commission to adopt staff recommendations for consistency with the UDC and neighborhood character. Discussion Items - Item 8 – 230 Divine Street: Architect Ronnie Carrasco presented plans to replace windows. The commission discussed whether existing windows of the original house should be reinstalled rather than replaced with new ones. Staff clarified that the proposed replacement was appropriate. The item was approved with staff stipulations, though Commissioner Gibbs suggested the applicant might reconsider reusing the original window in a larger opening. Vote: 9-0. - Item 10 – 1315 E Pyron Avenue: Applicant Jose Charro presented a revised design for a single-family home with a front garage. The commission discussed the garage orientation, noting that the applicant had reduced massing and provided a three-foot separation from the historic structure as previously requested. Staff recommended approval with stipulations on window specifications, separation, and garage door appearance. The motion passed 9-0. - Item 11 – 503 Mary Louise: Applicant Jim Clark presented plans for an accessory structure. The Monticello Neighborhood Association had requested modifications. Clark stated he had addressed some comments (e.g., color) but disagreed on the roof shape (hip versus gable). Staff recommended approval with six stipulations. Commissioners praised the design but requested further refinement of horizontal windows and roof form. The motion passed 9-0. - Item 13 – 731 N Palmetto: Case HDRC 2026-1871 – new two-story single-family dwelling on a vacant lot with frontage on both North Palmetto and Burnett Street. Applicant Octavio Viramontes presented updated plans reducing height and width. Commissioners discussed the roof profile (hip vs. gable) and window proportions. The commission approved the updated design with staff stipulations (including a clipped gable roof condition). Vote: 9-0 (Commissioner Sabino voted no). - Item 14 – 523 Adam Street: Conceptual approval for a 200-square-foot second-story addition. Applicant Nathan Manfred presented plans. Commissioners raised concerns about flat roof segments visible from the street, window proportions, and the use of historical details (e.g., porch columns). Staff recommended nine conceptual stipulations. After discussion, the commission granted conceptual approval with the stipulation that roof forms be further developed. Vote: 9-0. Key Outcomes - All five agenda items (8, 10, 11, 13, 14) were approved, most with staff stipulations. No items were denied. - Items 4 and 6 were postponed by request and not heard. - The next Preservation Academy workshop is scheduled for the following Wednesday, 4:00-6:00 PM at the City Tower cafeteria. - Meeting adjourned at 4:23 PM.

The Historic and Design Review Commission (HDRC) met on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 3:02 PM, adjourning at 4:23 PM. The commission considered several certificates of appropriateness for properties in historic districts, including items on a consent agenda and four individual cases. Upcoming events include the Historic House Roadshow on August 12, 2026, from 4-6 PM. Consent Calendar - Items 4 and 6 were postponed at the applicant's request and not heard. - The consent agenda (items 1-7, 9, 12, and others) was approved unanimously with staff stipulations, minus items 8, 10, and 11, which were pulled by commissioners for discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Jane Henry (President, Mission San Jose Neighborhood Association) spoke against item 10 (1315 East Pyrene Avenue), opposing the proposed front-facing attached two-car garage. She noted that no other house in the neighborhood has a front-facing garage and cited the mission historic district design manual. She urged the commission to follow prior decisions requiring garages at the rear. - Bianca Maldonado (President, Monticello Park Neighborhood Association) spoke on item 11 (503 Mary Louise Drive). She acknowledged the owner's investment but requested modifications: a hip roof instead of gable, horizontal wood cladding, window proportions consistent with the main house, reconsideration of breeze block wall, and clarification on walkway and railing treatment. She requested these be incorporated into the conceptual recommendation. Discussion Items - Item 8 – 230 Devine Street: Architect Ronnie Carrasco answered questions about window replacements. Commissioner Sabino raised concerns about replacing an original aluminum window with a new wood window instead of reinstating the original window opening. Staff explained that replacing in kind was appropriate. The commission approved with staff stipulations. - Item 10 – 1315 East Pyrene Avenue: Owner Jose Chadro presented the project. Staff noted this was the fourth or fifth hearing; the applicant had reduced massing, pushed the left massing forward, and added a three-foot garage setback. The neighborhood association opposed the front-facing garage. Staff recommended final approval with stipulations (setback, landscaping, window specs). The commission approved unanimously. - Item 11 – 503 Mary Louise Drive: Owner Tim Clark addressed neighborhood concerns. Staff noted the gable roof and breeze block were appropriate. Commission discussed the roof form (hip vs. gable) and window design. Vice Chair Fetzer supported the gable roof as appropriate for an ADU. The commission approved with staff stipulations, with a suggestion to revise the horizontal windows. - Item 13 – 731 North Palmetto: Applicant Octavio Viramontes presented a revised design for the Burnett Street structure, reducing massing and roof height. Staff noted improvements but stated the massing still did not match historic secondary structures. The commission approved with a stipulation for a clipped gable roof, based on a motion by Commissioner Velasquez. - Item 14 – 523 Adams Street: Applicant Nate Manfred outlined plans to address staff stipulations for a rear addition, including roof form revision, window proportions, and simplified detailing. The commission granted conceptual approval with staff stipulations, encouraging further development of roof forms and detailing. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda (minus items 8,10,11): Approved unanimously (roll call: all ayes). - Item 8 (230 Devine): Approved with staff stipulations, unanimous. - Item 10 (1315 East Pyrene): Approved with staff stipulations, unanimous. - Item 11 (503 Mary Louise): Approved with staff stipulations, unanimous. - Item 13 (731 North Palmetto): Approved with updated design and stipulation for clipped gable roof, unanimous. - Item 14 (523 Adams): Approved conceptually with staff stipulations, unanimous. - All approvals are advisory to the City Council; certificates of appropriateness will be emailed within 10 days. No work may begin without appropriate permits.

The meeting began with the approval of the June 2, 2026, minutes. The agenda included two main items: public comments on pedicab regulations and presentations from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and the San Antonio River Authority on ongoing construction projects and flood risk management. Council members emphasized the need for better communication, community engagement, and coordination between agencies. Consent Calendar - Minutes of June 2, 2026: Approved by motion with a second. No further details provided. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Hogan (speaker 1): Expressed frustration with the city’s pedicab permit system, stating that San Antonio has only 15 pedicab permits while demand is high, especially at events. He argued that the current system creates a monopoly, that taxis are often in poor condition, and that pedicab drivers face insurance difficulties. He called for more permits to allow licensed drivers to operate. - Ben Hogan (speaker 2): A full-time pedicab driver for 10 years, he stated that he often travels to Austin to earn money due to limited opportunities in San Antonio. He requested the city create additional pedicab permits, noting that there are over 300 licensed pedicab drivers but only 15 permits. He emphasized that more permits would improve service and accountability. Discussion Items - TxDOT Presentation (Charles, District Engineer): Presented an overview of major highway projects affecting the region, including: - I-35 expansion and elevated lanes (75% complete on one package, targeting January 2027). - 410 interchange improvements ($156 million project at U.S. 281 and San Pedro, beginning May 2026). - 1604 expansion south of Highway 90 (divided into six segments for competitive bidding). - Safety campaign “Amable, Cortés y Seguro” (Kind, Courteous, Safe) to reduce road rage and encourage patience. - Council members questioned specific intersections (e.g., 410 at 281, McCollough, San Pedro) and requested better communication via updated maps, translated materials, and community meetings. Councilor Core noted that a recent survey found “not knowing what’s happening” is the top concern. Councilor Munguía raised issues about flooding on Highway 35 in Somerset and coordination with the county. - San Antonio River Authority Presentation: Focused on flood risk management, including: - Identification of 3,000 low-water crossings in Bexar County, with 205 high-risk locations (197 crossing streams, 8 adjacent). - Use of new rainfall models (14 models tested) to predict flooding and prioritize improvements. - Implementation of automated gates (cost $80,000 each), sirens, and dynamic message signs to close roads before flooding. - Coordination with TxDOT, the city, and the county through platforms like BearFlat.org and Waze/Google Maps for real-time alerts. - Councilor Munguía asked about specific high-risk areas (e.g., Alamo Heights, Somerset) and the feasibility of using landscape architecture for smaller flood solutions. Councilor Spears thanked the team for rapid responses and regional cooperation. Councilor Core requested a map overlay and clarification on the number of improvement sites (197 vs. 205). Key Outcomes - Minutes approved (motion passed). - No formal votes were taken on pedicab permits; the public comments were received without immediate action. - Council directed TxDOT to improve communication by: - Updating construction closure information regularly on TXDOT’s app. - Translating maps into Spanish. - Scheduling community meetings for specific projects (e.g., 410/281 interchange) and including affected neighborhoods. - Council directed the River Authority to: - Provide a detailed map of high-risk flood locations. - Continue coordinating with the city and county on flood warning systems and automated gate installations. - Share the new flood model data with council members for district-specific planning. - The presentations were informational; no further referrals were made.

The Transportation Infrastructure Committee convened at 2:05 PM on August 4, 2026, under Chair McKee Rodriguez, with all members present (quorum). The meeting included approval of June 2, 2026 minutes, public comments on pedicab permits, a briefing from TxDOT on major construction projects, and a briefing from the San Antonio River Authority on the Next Gen Flood Warning System. The meeting adjourned at 3:48 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the June 2, 2026 meeting were approved by unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Garen Hogan (pedicab driver): Stated that San Antonio's cap of 15 pedicab permits is insufficient compared to Austin (350) and Houston (no cap). He argued that the two primary permit holders operate a duopoly, cabs are often in disrepair, and one company has failed to maintain insurance twice in two years. He requested an increase in permits and elimination of the lottery system. - Ben Hogan (12-year pedicabber): Emphasized the demand mismatch (15 permits for Alamo Dome seating 60,000 vs. Austin's 300 for a 15,000-seat venue). He supported additional permits while allowing current holders to keep theirs, and noted that allowing experienced drivers to own cabs would improve safety and accountability. Discussion Items - TxDOT Construction Update (Charles Benavides, District Engineer): - Presented an overview of 231 active construction projects (12-county region), totaling $6.1 billion in active work, with another $15.1 billion under development. - Highlighted major projects: - I-35 Northeast Expansion Corridor (NEX): $1.5 billion (78% complete on central segment); southbound elevated lanes expected open by January 2027, northbound by mid-2027. - I-410/US 281 Interchange Improvements: $156 million low-bid contract, let May 2026; will address merging and weaving issues, add a double-lane exit at McCullough/San Pedro. - Loop 1604 North (Segments 1-6): $1.3 billion program, 77% complete on segment 2 (I-10 interchange), segment 6 ($168M) breaking ground fall 2026. Segment 2 will feature a first-of-its-kind roundabout interchange. - US 90 Corridor Expansion: $105M phase one under construction; phase two expected to let spring 2027. - Downtown bridge joint repairs: Expected completion by October 2026. - Councilmembers raised concerns about communication, lack of coordination between city and state projects, low-bid contract performance, and induced demand from adding lanes. TxDOT highlighted the Drive Texas app (launched 2 months prior) and commitment to stakeholder meetings, cellular text alerts, and social media. Councilmember McKeigue Rodriguez requested routine updates to all council members. - Next Gen Flood Warning System (Steve Metzler, San Antonio River Authority): - Goal: Reduce high-water rescues via improved early warning (currently 45 minutes after first raindrop; targeting before rain starts). - Analysis identified over 3,000 road segments at risk of flooding from adjacent waterways (not just low-water crossings). Using crash history, flood depth, sight distance, and traffic volume, 205 segments were classified as extreme/high risk. - 197 existing low-water crossings are being upgraded with cameras, automated gates, dynamic signage, improved lighting, and barricades. County pledged $21 million. - The system integrates with Drive Texas, Google Maps, and Apple Maps. BearFlood.org provides real-time alerts. New stream gauges and modeling will allow proactive road closures up to an hour in advance. - Councilmembers discussed coordination with suburban cities, cost of gates ($50-$80,000 each), communication plans for sirens, and the need for a visual map of improvements. Chair requested that presentation be shared with full council. Key Outcomes - TxDOT: Council requested routine communication (e.g., email updates) and improved mapping. TxDOT agreed to follow up on app improvements and coordinate with city on project timelines. - Flood Warning System: The River Authority will continue field upgrades over the next 12 months, develop communication plans, and provide council district-specific briefings upon request. - Pedicab Permits: No direct action taken, but public comments were noted; future discussion may be agendized in a relevant committee.