Public Meetings - San Antonio, Texas

The Audit Committee of the City of San Antonio convened on May 6, 2026, at 10:02 AM. The meeting included approval of minutes, consent agenda items, pre-solicitation briefings, a post-solicitation briefing, and a final internal audit report. The committee also entered executive session with no official action taken. The meeting adjourned at 10:48 AM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the previous meeting were approved unanimously. - Consent Agenda: Two audit reports were approved collectively without individual discussion. The motion carried. Discussion Items - Item 4: Pre-Solicitation Briefing – Solid Waste Management Transfer Station Services: Staff presented a request for proposals (RFP) for hauling services and/or full operation of the city-owned transfer station at 11601 Starcrest Road. The contract is estimated at $46.4–$51.2 million over 10 years with two three-year renewal options. Committee members discussed the importance of vendor reliability, technology for logistics, and regional outreach. This item was for briefing only. - Item 5: Pre-Solicitation Briefing – Dockless Vehicle Services: The Center City Development and Operations Department seeks two vendors to supply 1,000 dockless vehicles each (total 2,000) under a two-year contract with two one-year renewals, estimated at $1.34 million in revenue. Committee members emphasized ease of app use, safety (risk falls to vendor), and continued evolution of technology. This item was for briefing only. - Item 6: Post-Solicitation Briefing – District One Parks and Multi-Generational Facility Construction: Capital Delivery Department recommended awarding a contract to Vendor A for $5,694,000 (2022 bond project) for a new addition and renovations at West End Senior Center. The RFP used two rounds of scoring; Vendor A scored higher. Committee members stressed minimizing change orders. A motion to approve scheduling the contract for City Council consideration carried. - Item 7: Final Internal Audit Report – FIRE Inventory Management: The audit found lack of written policies, inconsistent documentation, and control weaknesses across Fire divisions (service center, arson bureau, special operations). Recommendations included establishing procedures for purchasing, receiving, physical inventory, distribution, disposal, warehouse tracking (Burnett Street/Cherry Street), and security access. FIRE agreed and implemented corrective actions by January 2026. Committee members inquired about metrics, re-validation processes, and technology (use of Excel/Teams). The audit was accepted unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously. - Item 4 & 5: Briefings received; no action taken. - Item 6: Motion to proceed with contract scheduling carried. - Item 7: Motion to accept the audit report carried. FIRE confirmed corrective actions are complete. - Executive Session: The committee met in closed session from 10:41 AM to 10:48 AM to consult with the City Attorney on attorney-client matters under Texas Government Code Chapter 551. No official action was taken in open session afterward.

The San Antonio City Council held a B session on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 2:03 PM to receive a briefing on the FY2026 second-quarter financial status, the five-year financial forecast for the General Fund and major restricted funds, and an update on the budget process. The presentation, led by Interim Budget Director Freddy Martinez and City Manager Eric, highlighted a structurally unbalance forecast with deficits starting in FY2028, driven by slowing revenue growth and rising expenses, particularly in employee compensation and healthcare. Council members debated whether to pursue deep spending cuts (scenario one) or a combination of a property tax rate increase (to the state allowed 3.5% growth) and targeted reductions (scenario two). No decisions were made; next steps include the mid-year budget adjustment and taxpayer impact statement on May 14, a goal-setting session on May 22, and the trial budget on June 17. Discussion Items - FY2026 Second Quarter Financial Status: - General Fund revenues are $21.5 million above budget through six months, projected to end the year $50.9 million above budget due to higher CPS Energy payments (off-system sales). Sales tax growth is slower than budgeted (2.6% below). Property tax is slightly above budget. - Employee Benefits Fund is over budget by $19.4 million in Q2, projected to be $45.4 million over for FY26, driven by medical/pharmacy claims—especially from freestanding emergency rooms. The city is targeting education and provider negotiations. - Five-Year General Fund Forecast (FY27‑FY31): - Revenues projected to decline 0.6% in FY27 (versus FY26 estimate) and grow modestly thereafter, while expenses grow at 6.3% in FY27 and 3.8% on average in outer years. - Under current property tax rate (54.159 cents per $100), the deficit reaches $130 million in FY28 and grows to $264 million by FY31. If the city raises the tax rate to the state allowed 3.5% revenue growth, the deficit reduces to $70.3 million in FY28 and $196 million in FY31. - Property tax base values are projected to decline 2.13% in FY27—the first negative growth since 2011—primarily due to housing market conditions, high protests/exemptions, and SB9 (business personal property exemption). - Restricted Fund Forecasts: - Hotel Occupancy Tax: structurally balanced in FY27 but small deficits in outer years (growing to $3.1 million by FY31). - Development Services Fund: structurally unbalanced due to declining permit activity (residential permits down 23.5% in FY26, commercial down 9.9%). No fee increases since 2008. Deficit of $6.4 million in FY27, growing to $17.6 million by FY31. Staff is discussing targeted fee adjustments with stakeholders. - Solid Waste Management Fund: Assumes annual fee increases of $0.50-$1.00 per cart and environmental fee increases to maintain structural balance and a 5% reserve. - Comprehensive Budget Reviews: - Reviews underway for Police, Fire, Library, Municipal Court, and HR departments. 13 of 23 identified areas expected to be completed by end of FY26; results will be incorporated into the FY27 proposed budget. - Medicaid 1115 Waiver: - A deep dive identified additional reserves that allow certain 1115 waiver programs (e.g., oral health, violence prevention) to continue without general fund support. A final recommendation will be part of the FY27 proposed budget. - Council Member Positions & Debate: - Several members (Gavito, White, Spears) argued the city has a spending problem and should pursue deep cuts (scenario one) before any tax increase. They emphasized core services under city charter, state/federal law, and voter-approved bond projects. - Other members (McKee Rodriguez, Galvan, Viagran, Corps, Castillo) highlighted that significant cuts would harm vulnerable populations and that a revenue increase is necessary to maintain quality of life services (parks, libraries, health, sidewalks). They pointed out that the city’s budget is 70% personnel and that cutting $130 million would require layoffs or eliminating non-core departments entirely. - Mayor and City Manager noted the two-year budget cycle provides some flexibility but warned that structural deficits require action. The recommended path (scenario two) combines using the state allowed property tax revenue growth (generating $24.7 million in FY27 and $42 million in FY28) with $70 million in expenditure reductions over two years. Key Outcomes - Next Budget Dates: - May 14, 2026: City Council will consider the FY26 mid-year budget adjustment and adopt the taxpayer impact statement (showing average property tax bill and key fees). - May 22, 2026: Goal-setting session at the convention center to discuss community budget survey results and council priorities. - June 17, 2026: Trial budget presentation with updated revenue assumptions and proposed targeted reductions. - August 13, 2026: Proposed FY27 budget presented to Council. - September 17, 2026: Final budget adoption. - No Formal Decision on Tax Rate or Cuts: Council members expressed support for either scenario one (cuts only) or scenario two (tax rate increase plus cuts), with no consensus reached. The debate will continue through the goal-setting and trial budget sessions. - Additional Requests from Council: - Provide a detailed breakdown of property value declines (residential, commercial, industrial). - Present a clear list of core vs. non-core services as defined by charter/state law. - Explore revenue enhancements (e.g., increasing fines for vacant properties, short-term rental fees, auto recycler fees, and collecting outstanding debts). - Examine subsidies and TIRZ agreements for potential savings. - Investigate cross-jurisdictional collaboration with Bear County and other municipalities. - No Public Comment Heard: The meeting adjourned at 4:34 PM, with public comment scheduled for later but not conducted during this session.

The San Antonio Historic Preservation Board met on May 6, 2026, at 3:03 PM to consider several certificates of appropriateness under the Unified Development Code. The meeting, which adjourned at 4:17 PM, included approval of consent items, a contested seasonal activity site at 1611 Broadway, a barn demolition request, and a proposal for two single-family residences in the Dignity Hill Historic District. Consent Calendar - The board approved items 1 through 9 on the consent agenda (except items 3 and 7, which were pulled for separate discussion) with staff stipulations. Certificates of Appropriateness will be issued by email within 10 days. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak. Discussion Items - Item 3 – 1611 Broadway (Seasonal Activity Site): Applicant Lorena Gómez Farías (KPNJ) presented plans for a seasonal use lot on Broadway, including a restroom building, electrical equipment, a trash enclosure, and a temporary ice rink / event space. Commissioners raised concerns about the placement of utility buildings along Broadway (rather than the alley), lack of landscaping, and the visual impact of a large concrete pad. A motion to approve with staff stipulations failed, as did a subsequent motion to deny. A substitute motion to approve with additional conditions—relocate Building 1 to the west side of the property (along the alley) and incorporate additional trees and plants—passed 7–3. The applicant noted the owner was reluctant to move the building due to utility connections, but the board adopted the motion. - Item 7 – Barn Deconstruction (George Ramirez): Applicant George Ramirez requested a certificate to demolish a deteriorated barn on his property, citing structural rot and a $100,000 reconstruction estimate. He planned to salvage cedar beams and rebuild a similar structure for ministry use. The board approved the request with staff stipulations unanimously. - Item 10 – 731 N Palmetto (Two Single-Family Residences): Applicants Octavio Miramontes, Alex Smortman, and Jack Smortman proposed two two-story homes in the Dignity Hill Historic District, fronting Burnett and Palmetto Streets. Staff identified 12 unmet stipulations regarding setbacks, massing, window alignment, portico design, and landscaping. Commissioners expressed concerns about the scale and mass of the buildings relative to the surrounding one-story historic homes. The board voted unanimously to refer the project to the Design Review Committee (DRC) for further refinement, with a return to the full board on May 20, 2026. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved (items 1–9 except 3 and 7) with staff stipulations. - Item 3 approved with additional conditions (relocate Building 1 to alley, enhanced landscaping) – vote 7–3. - Item 7 approved (barn deconstruction) – vote 10–0. - Item 10 continued to the May 20, 2026 meeting after DRC review – vote 10–0. - Minutes of the April 15, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously.

The Audit Committee of the City of San Antonio met on May 6, 2026, to approve minutes, consider consent agenda items, and receive a presentation from the Office of the Municipal Auditor regarding inventory management in the Fire Department. The committee accepted the audit report and moved into executive session. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the previous meeting were approved unanimously with one correction. - Procurement Information Item: The committee received information on a solicitation for proportional administration services for the operation and maintenance of a city transfer station. Evaluation criteria include 44 points for antecedents and qualifications, 50 points for price, and 10 points for veteran references. The timeline includes a pre-solicitation conference on May 27, proposal deadline on June 15, evaluation in June/July, and negotiation in August. Council member White noted that the district has collected 500 pieces of 500-pound batteries and 3,060 pounds of electronic waste, and expressed support for the project's benefits to District 1 and the city. The consent agenda was approved. Discussion Items - Acceptance of the Municipal Auditor's Report: Michael Gutierrez presented findings from an audit of inventory management in the Fire Department. The audit found that physical records for service centers were complete and accurate, but special operations stations lacked established procedures. Recommendations included establishing policies, procedures, and controls for inventory distribution, tracking of returned materials, and restricting access to areas. The audit also noted missing records for ammunition at the Cherry Street station. Council members expressed concern about the findings given the use of public funds, but commended the Fire Department's response and ongoing corrective actions. Council member Mesa González asked about monitoring and record-keeping responsibilities. Council member White emphasized the need for systematic tracking and technology improvements. The committee voted to accept the audit report. Key Outcomes - Approved the minutes of the previous meeting. - Approved the consent agenda, including the procurement information item. - Accepted the Municipal Auditor's report on the Fire Department's inventory management (motion passed unanimously). - The committee moved into executive session at 10:41 AM for consultation with the city attorney under Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code.

The Historic and Design Review Commission (HDRC) met on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 3:03 PM. Chairman Jay Maurice Gibbs presided. All ten commissioners were present, establishing a quorum. Announcements included Preservation Month events (May 9 wood window workshop, May 16 picnic and movie, May 21 citizen historian course and trivia night) and a Riverwalk strategic plan public meeting on May 9 at 10 AM at the central library. Consent Calendar - Items 1 through 9 on the consent agenda were approved with staff stipulations, less items 3 (1611 Broadway) and 7 (deconstruction of a barn) which were pulled for separate discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Item 3 – 1611 Broadway (Applicant: Lorena Gomez Farrias): The applicant sought approval for two small utility/restroom buildings on a prominent corner lot in the Rio 2 district. Commissioners raised concerns about the siting of utilitarian buildings on Broadway and Newell, lack of landscaping, heat sink potential, and the building's long-term compatibility. The applicant noted utility constraints (CPS pole and sewer locations) and the owner's desire for permanent structures to support seasonal activities. A motion to approve with staff stipulations failed on a split vote. A substitute motion to approve with additional conditions – relocation of building one to the west side of the site (along the alley) and increased perimeter landscaping including trees – passed 8–2. The matter was continued to the May 20 meeting. - Item 7 – Deconstruction at a property (Applicant: George Ramirez): The applicant requested a certificate of appropriateness to fully deconstruct a failing barn, citing a $128,000 reconstruction cost and structural rot. Commissioners discussed the historic preservation plan and the owner's prior salvage efforts. A motion to approve with staff stipulations passed unanimously. - Item 10 – 731 North Palmetto (Applicants: Octavia Montes, Alex Schmartzman): The applicant proposed two two-story single-family homes on a vacant lot in the Dignity Hill Historic District. Staff identified 12 stipulations. Updated plans were presented addressing setbacks, building width, massing, porches, fenestration, and parking. Commissioners expressed concerns about height, scale, and massing relative to adjacent one-story homes. A motion to refer the item to a Design Review Committee (DRC) meeting the following week passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Item 3: Continued to May 20, 2026, with conditions: relocation of building one to the west property line (alley side) and additional perimeter landscaping/trees. - Item 7: Approved with staff stipulations. - Item 10: Referred to a DRC for further refinement of design, particularly scale, massing, and fenestration. - The meeting adjourned at 4:17 PM.

The San Antonio Zoning Commission held a regular meeting on May 5, 2026, at 2:00 PM (the meeting began at approximately 2:47 PM after a recess). The commission considered multiple rezoning requests, including a contested application for a food service establishment in a residential neighborhood, a denial for vehicle sales on Foster Road, approval for commercial rezoning on Wethold Road, and a contentious triplex proposal on Caden Street. Votes were taken on each item, with some postponed to later dates. Consent Calendar - Item 8 (652 Callahan Road): Rezoning to C3S with specific authorization for auto body repair. Approved unanimously. - Item 11 (IDZ to IDZ with MF-18): Rezoning for multifamily. Approved unanimously. - Item 12 (10,211 Summers Drive): Rezoning. Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 1 (1551 Oak Grove Drive): Extensive public comment. The applicant, Rabbi Yosef Maus, and community members (representing the Jewish community of San Antonio) argued that the proposed change was not for a commercial restaurant but for a private communal kosher kitchen serving only the Jewish community. They emphasized religious necessity, lack of kosher options in the city, and that the operation is non-profit. Neighbors and the Hensendale Neighborhood Association opposed, citing traffic congestion, parking issues, emergency vehicle access concerns, noise from events, and the precedent of commercial intrusion into a residential area. Some neighbors noted existing code violations and a pending citation for operating without a certificate of occupancy. - Item 2 (3200 block Foster Road): One neighbor (Jane Schaefer) opposed, stating that the property is adjacent to residences, a school, and a library, and that the applicant had been operating in violation for two years without proper permits. - Item 4 (3730 Wethold Road): Public comment from a resident of the Paloma subdivision expressed concerns about traffic, drainage, noise, and potential foundation damage from increased impervious cover. The applicant and representative described the property as a rare-shaped lot near major commercial corridors and stated they had consulted with neighbors. - Item 5 (1215 Caden Street): Multiple neighbors spoke in opposition, highlighting overparked streets, emergency access problems, and the neighborhood's desire to maintain single-family character. The applicant, Diego Rodriguez, argued that the third unit was needed to address housing affordability and that he had modified leases to mandate rear parking. Discussion Items - Item 1 (Oak Grove Drive): The applicant sought a conditional use permit to operate a food service establishment (kosher kitchen) in a residence within an R-6 zoning district. Staff recommended approval with conditions, but the neighborhood association opposed. Commissioners discussed traffic, parking, and religious accommodations. Commissioner Kelly suggested a four-week postponement to allow negotiations between the parties. The motion to postpone to June 2, 2026 passed 9-0. - Item 2 (Foster Road): Request to rezone from R-6 residential to C-3 commercial with conditional use for vehicle sales. Staff recommended denial due to incompatibility with the residential neighborhood. The applicant stated they wanted to store and repair semi-trucks. The commission voted 9-0 to deny, citing the intense nature of the use and lack of documented neighborhood support. - Item 4 (Wethold Road): Rezoning from R-4 residential to C-2 commercial to allow neighborhood-serving commercial uses. Staff and the Planning Commission recommended approval. The applicant noted the property's irregular shape and proximity to existing commercial. After discussion, the commission voted 9-0 to approve. - Item 5 (Caden Street): Request to rezone from R-4 to R-4 with conditional use to allow a third dwelling unit (triplex). The neighborhood association opposed due to parking and density concerns. The initial motion to deny failed 4-5. A motion to reconsider passed, then the commission voted 5-4 to approve, with conditions including off-street parking requirements. The matter will proceed to City Council for final decision. - Item 7 (1315 Base Road): Rezoning from C-2 to C-2CD (conditional use) for automobile sales. The applicant amended the request to C-2CD after staff input. No public opposition. The commission voted unanimously to approve as amended. Key Outcomes - Item 1: Postponed to June 2, 2026 (motion by Commissioner Kelly, seconded by Commissioner Hinojosa; vote 9-0). - Item 2: Denied (motion by Commissioner Lozano, seconded by Commissioner Kellum; vote 9-0). - Item 4: Approved (motion by Commissioner Lozano, seconded by Commissioner Kellum; vote 9-0). - Item 5: After reconsideration, Approved (motion by Commissioner Rodríguez, seconded by Commissioner Kellum; vote 5-4). The case will go to City Council with a recommendation of approval. - Item 7: Approved as amended to C-2CD (motion by Commissioner Kellum, seconded by Commissioner Rodríguez; vote 9-0). - Consent Calendar: Items 8, 11, 12 approved unanimously. - Postponements: Items 3 and 6 postponed to May 19, 2026; items 10, 14, 15 postponed to May 19 (announced at start).

The San Antonio Zoning Commission met on May 5, 2026, at 1:01 PM (recess 2:47–2:56 PM, adjourned 4:31 PM) to consider nine agenda items. The meeting featured a contentious debate over a request to rezone a residence to allow a community kosher kitchen (Item 1), a denial of a request for oversized vehicle storage in a residential area (Item 2), approval of a commercial transition zone (Item 4), and a split vote that ultimately approved a triplex conversion (Item 5). The consent calendar and continuances were handled with minimal opposition. Consent Calendar - Item 8 (6502 Callahan Road): Approved change from C2 C D (conditional auto repair) to C3 S (auto paint/body repair with outside storage screened). 14 notices, 0 in favor, 1 opposed. Vote: unanimous. - Item 11 (100 Proband Street): Approved change from IDZ to IDZ (C1 uses, MF18, bar/tavern). 16 notices, 0 in favor, 0 opposed; Lone Star Neighborhood Association in favor. Vote: unanimous. - Item 12 (1021-1 Summers Drive): Approved change from R4 to I-1. 15 notices, 3 in favor, 0 opposed. Vote: unanimous. Continuances - Items 3 and 6: Continued to May 19, 2026, due to a notice mailing error. No public comment. Vote: unanimous. - Item 9 (12139 Jones Maltzburger Road): Continued to May 19, 2026, at applicant's request. No public comment. Vote: unanimous. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 1 (15511 Oak Grove Drive): Supporters (including Rabbi Tal Shaoul, community members, and the CEO of the Jewish Federation) argued that the facility is a religiously necessary community kitchen, not a commercial restaurant, and serves a critical need for kosher food. Opponents (Hills and Dales neighborhood board member Harrison Axon and residents) cited traffic congestion, parking overflow, noise, trash, and the potential for future commercial encroachment. Several speakers noted that emergency vehicles (ambulances) have been blocked by parked cars. The applicant acknowledged past zoning and code violations but attributed them to confusion. - Item 2 (3200 block South Foster Road): Applicant Efrain Rios sought C3 with conditional use for manufactured home/oversized vehicle storage. Jane Schaefer, a neighboring landowner, opposed, stating the owner began operating illegally in 2022 and that the intense commercial use was incompatible with the residential entrance. Staff recommended denial. - Item 4 (Jones Maltzburger Road area): Applicant representative presented a C2 commercial request for a transitional lot near a Whataburger and McDonald's. Gwen Vanderpool (Paloma Park resident) opposed, raising concerns about light/sound pollution, drainage, and traffic. She suggested a nursery or park instead. Staff recommended approval, noting the downzoning from regional commercial. - Item 5 (1210 Caton Avenue): Owner Diego Rodriguez requested a conditional use for a third dwelling unit (triplex). He argued for middle housing and sufficient onsite parking. Opponents (including Rachel Rohr, Eddie Rohr, Denise Martin, and Greg Ripps) cited overcrowded street parking, emergency vehicle access problems, and a desire to preserve single-family character. Highland Park Neighborhood Association opposed. Discussion Items - Item 1 – Kosher Kitchen (15511 Oak Grove Drive): Extensive discussion followed public testimony. Commissioners questioned staff on the definition of a food service establishment, the existence of open code violations (two pending for operating without a certificate of occupancy, with citations since 2023), and whether the operation constituted a restaurant. Commissioner Kelly suggested a continuance to allow mediation between the neighborhood and the applicant. Motion to continue to June 2, 2026, passed (8–1–1, with Commissioner Woodsett dissenting?). Vote count: 8 ayes, 1 nay (Commissioner Woodsett?), 1 abstention? Actually roll call: Kelly yes, Hinojosa yes, Kellum yes, Losef yes, Pete Rodriguez yes, Huey aye, Duval aye, Woodsett yes, Pana yes, Bustamante aye. All yes except one? That's 10 ayes. So motion carried. - Item 2 – Vehicle Storage (3200 block South Foster Road): Staff recommended denial based on incompatibility with the residential context and history of violations. Commissioner Losef made a motion to deny, citing lack of documented neighborhood support and the intense nature of C3. Motion carried 10–0 (Commissioner Kelly had left). All commissioners voted aye. - Item 4 – Commercial Transition (Jones Maltzburger area): Staff supported the C2 rezoning as a logical transition. Commissioner Losef moved to approve, noting the downzoning and the need for neighborhood services. Commissioner Duval supported, citing the existing regional commercial designation. Motion carried 10–0. - Item 5 – Triplex (1210 Caton Avenue): A lengthy debate ensued. Initial motion to deny by Commissioner Hinojosa failed (5–5 with Chair Bustamante voting no). A motion for reconsideration passed (6–4). Then a motion to continue to June 2 failed (4–6). A second motion for reconsideration passed (7–3). Finally, a motion to approve by Commissioner Pete Rodriguez passed (7–3). Vote on approval: Pete Rodriguez yes, Kellum yes, Losef yes, Hinojosa no, Huey yes, Duval nay, Woodsett yes, Pana no, Bustamante aye. Motion carried 7–3. The conditional use for three dwelling units was approved. - Item 7 – Auto Sales (1315 Basi Road): The applicant amended the request from C3 to C2 with a conditional use for auto/motor vehicle sales, which staff supported. Commissioner Kellum moved to approve as amended. No public comment. Vote: unanimous. Key Outcomes - Item 1: Continued to June 2, 2026, for further negotiation between the applicant and neighborhood. - Item 2: Recommended denial (10–0). The applicant may still appeal to City Council. - Item 4: Recommended approval of C2 commercial (10–0). - Item 5: Recommended approval of R4 C D for three dwelling units (7–3). The Highland Park Neighborhood Association opposed; the property owner may proceed to City Council. - Item 7: Recommended approval as amended to C2 C D for auto sales (unanimous). - Consent Calendar & Continuances: Approved as routine. - Meeting adjourned at 4:31 PM.

The meeting featured a detailed presentation from the Public Works Department on a pilot program to reduce residential speed limits to 25 mph, followed by council discussion on enforcement, engineering, and public awareness. The council also approved a new member to the Airport Advisory Commission. Discussion Items - Residential Speed Limit Pilot Program: Public Works staff presented findings from a pilot in District 7, where 10 new 25 mph signs were installed in February on Catman Road and Russman Drive. Data showed that signs alone had minimal effect on driver speed (e.g., average speeds remained around 35–36 mph, similar to before sign changes). The presentation noted that speed humps and other traffic calming measures have been used in 200 locations, but the ultimate solution requires a combination of signage, enforcement, public education, and street design. Staff recommended conducting a citywide study of residential speed limits and developing a comprehensive policy, with cost estimates to be proposed for the FY 2027 budget. - Council Discussion: - Councilmember Maki Rodríguez emphasized that signage alone is insufficient and called for a public awareness campaign similar to "Don't Mess with Texas" and increased police presence, noting that ticketing data could help target enforcement. - Councilmember Core stressed a holistic approach: engineering (e.g., speed humps, roundabouts), education, and enforcement. She also raised concerns about school zone sign placement under Texas code and suggested flexibility to improve safety near schools. - Councilmember Mungía supported the pilot and highlighted the difficulty residents face in collecting signatures for speed hump petitions. He asked staff to explore simplifying the petition process, especially for neighborhoods without a homeowners association. - Airport Advisory Commission Appointment: The council considered six applicants for the commission. After a brief executive session to consult with legal counsel, they returned to open session and approved Camila Montoya as the community category representative for a term through 2028. Key Outcomes - Council directed staff to finalize a comprehensive plan for residential speed reduction, including cost estimates for signage, public campaign, and enforcement strategies, to be presented in time for the next budget cycle. - The council approved Camila Montoya’s appointment to the Airport Advisory Commission via a motion and second (no recorded vote tally, but passed unanimously).

The Transportation Infrastructure Committee met on May 5, 2026, at 2:11 PM to discuss a follow-up briefing on lowering prima facie speed limits in residential neighborhoods and to reconsider applicants for the Airport Advisory Commission after a withdrawal. The meeting was chaired by McKee Rodriguez. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the previous meeting were approved unanimously via voice vote. Discussion Items - Briefing on Lowering Prima Facie Speed Limits: Art Reinhart from Public Works presented a follow-up to a Council Consideration Request (CCR) filed by Councilmember Aldarete Gavito to improve safety on neighborhood streets by lowering default speed limits. The presentation covered: - State law defines prima facie speed limits: 30 mph on residential streets by default. - Two legal methods to lower speed limits: engineering studies or a city ordinance (minimum 25 mph on two-lane roads). - A pilot project on Campman Road installed 10 signs lowering the limit to 25 mph; data showed minimal speed reduction (e.g., northbound speeds changed from 31.6 mph to 31 mph before and after). - A best practice review of cities (Austin, Kirkland, Glendora) recommended a comprehensive study to define neighborhood streets and develop a policy for arterials, paired with a public awareness campaign and enforcement. - Councilmembers expressed support for a multi-pronged approach, including engineering (traffic calming, quick-builds), enforcement data, and a citywide campaign similar to "Click It or Ticket." Councilmember Mungia suggested an online signature process for speed hump petitions. Councilmember Core noted the need for faster, creative solutions and questioned school zone policies. Staff were directed to refine the scope and cost of a comprehensive study for inclusion in the upcoming budget process. - Reconsideration of Airport Advisory Commission Applicants: Due to a withdrawal, the committee considered six applicants from the previous pool. They met in executive session from 2:49 PM to 2:57 PM to discuss attorney-client matters. In open session, no official action was taken during executive session. The committee then voted to recommend Camilla Montoya for the community category of the Airport Advisory Commission. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved unanimously. - Speed Limit Study: Staff will develop a detailed scope of work and cost estimate for a comprehensive study of neighborhood speed limits and a policy for arterial roads, to be presented during budget discussions. The committee requested a follow-up presentation to the committee rather than only budget talks. Staff agreed to return with options for signage, campaign costs, and enforcement data. - Airport Advisory Commission Appointment: The committee voted unanimously (motion and second) to recommend Camilla Montoya to the full city council to serve through March 18, 2028. - The meeting adjourned at 2:57 PM.