Public Meetings - San Antonio, Texas

The Economic and Workforce Development Committee met on September 24, 2025, from 2:03 PM to 3:29 PM. The meeting covered four agenda items: a review of the procurement process, establishment of a working group for Spain flight connectivity and World Cup base camp, amendments to the Small Business Advisory Commission composition, and a briefing on the economic development strategic framework refresh. All action items were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the previous meeting were approved by unanimous voice vote. No corrections were offered. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items 1. Review of Procurement Process (Briefing & Action) - Staff Presentation: Troy Elliott, Chief Financial Officer, presented a proposal to conduct a review of the city's procurement process, focusing on three areas: supplier engagement, capacity building, and the procurement process itself. He noted that the procurement division has about 80 people and completed approximately 400 procurements over $50,000 in FY24, totaling about $2.4 billion in awards. The timeline includes presenting the FY26 annual procurement forecast to the Audit Committee in November 2025 and to the full council in December, with in-depth presentations in February 2026 and a final comprehensive plan by July 2026. - Councilmember Discussion: Chair Viegeran emphasized the need to distinguish truly local vendors (produced locally, employing locals) from pass-throughs, and to identify gaps in local industry. She requested that the review include explanations of payment timelines, definitions of high-profile procurements, and updates on city manager delegation changes. Councilmember Galvan asked for inclusion of trades unions in stakeholder engagement, and for data on bid counts, contract geography, and employment impact. Councilmember Spears supported the focus on local impact, insurance barriers, payment timelines, veteran engagement, and suggested setting tangible benchmarks. All councilmembers agreed on the need to address barriers like insurance and payout timelines. - Outcome: The committee approved a motion to move forward with the procurement review incorporating the discussed focus areas (unions, veterans, insurance barriers, payment timelines, local impact metrics, and data collection). The motion passed unanimously. 2. Canary Island/Lanzarote Sister City Ad Hoc Working Group (Briefing & Action) - Staff Presentation: Brenda Hicks Laurenson, Economic Development Director, briefed the committee on the recently established sister city relationship with Lanzarote, Canary Islands. The proposed working group would focus on two objectives: exploring direct flight connectivity between San Antonio and Spain, and positioning San Antonio as a base camp for the 2026 World Cup. Recommended members include the Honorary Council of Spain, Aviation, Economic Development, Visit San Antonio, Greater SATX, and EWDC appointees. The group would sunset in January 2027 or upon completion of the charge. - Councilmember Discussion: Councilmember Spears expressed enthusiasm and asked about diversifying opportunities (e.g., technology, water ideas) and including local small businesses. Councilmember Galvan supported the sports and transportation lenses, mentioned Toyota Field as a proposed venue, and suggested involving universities and ISDs. Chair Viegeran requested updates via memo and possible future meetings. - Outcome: The committee approved a motion to establish the ad hoc working group for the specified purposes, with a sunset date of January 2027 or upon completion. The motion passed unanimously. 3. Small Business Advisory Commission Composition (Briefing & Action) - Staff Presentation: Alfred Brewer, Assistant Director for Economic Development, presented a recommendation to amend the ordinance to reduce the Small Business Advisory Commission (SBAC) from 15 members to 11. The change would remove four at-large positions, maintain mayor and council district appointments, and require at least one member from each of five categories (trade organizations, nonprofit providers, small businesses with <10 employees, small businesses with 10-50 employees, and targeted industry representatives). The mission and purpose of SBAC would remain unchanged. - Councilmember Discussion: Chair Viegeran supported the change, noting that the at-large positions had caused quorum issues. Councilmember Galvan asked about the distinction between SBAC and the Sabeta committee; staff clarified that Sabeta focuses specifically on the small business procurement program, while SBAC covers broader small business issues. Councilmember Spears reiterated her interest in measurable goals and benchmarks. - Outcome: The committee approved a motion to recommend an ordinance amendment to the full council to reduce the commission size to 11 members and adjust category requirements. The motion passed unanimously. 4. Economic Development Strategic Framework Refresh (Briefing Only) - Staff Presentation: Brenda Hicks Laurenson provided an update on the 2022 Economic Development Strategic Framework, highlighting progress in four goal areas: innovation and industry, placemaking and real estate, talent and workforce, and capacity and resources. She proposed a refresh for FY26, which would include a small business ecosystem evaluation, international strategy, target industry review with supply chain gap analysis, and site identification study. The timeline would involve issuing a solicitation soon, with stakeholder engagement in spring 2026, and a final work plan by fall 2027. - Councilmember Discussion: Chair Viegeran expressed concerns about launching the solicitation immediately, preferring to first gather data on program effectiveness and to brief new council members on the framework's goals, especially given the creation of new city departments and the changing economic environment. She requested a follow-up next month with clearer goals and cost estimates. Councilmember Spears echoed the need for measurable outcomes, construction timelines, and coordination across departments. Councilmember Galvan emphasized internal data analysis, equitable economic outcomes, and the importance of aligning citywide goals. All councilmembers agreed that the refresh should proceed only after council alignment and understanding. - Outcome: No action taken. The chair directed staff to brief council members individually and return with a more detailed plan and cost estimate. Key Outcomes - Procurement Review: Motion to proceed with the review including focus areas on unions, veterans, insurance barriers, payment timelines, local impact metrics, and data collection. Unanimous approval. - Spain/Lanzarote Working Group: Motion to establish ad hoc working group for flight connectivity and World Cup base camp, sunset January 2027. Unanimous approval. - SBAC Ordinance Amendment: Motion to recommend reducing commission size to 11 members and adjusting category requirements. Unanimous approval. - Strategic Framework Refresh: No action; staff to brief council members and return with a refined proposal. - Next Steps: Staff will provide a memo on benchmarks and schedule meetings with council members for the strategic framework refresh. The committee will prioritize small business construction grants data for a future agenda.

The San Antonio Economic Development Committee (EWDC) convened on September 24, 2025, at 2:03 PM to discuss several agenda items including a procurement process review, the creation of a working group focused on economic development and labor ties with Lanzarote, Spain, changes to the Small Business Advisory Committee's composition, and a strategic update on the City's economic development framework. The meeting concluded at 3:28 PM. Consent Calendar - The committee approved the minutes of the previous meeting with some corrections. Discussion Items Item 2: Procurement Process Review - Troy Cohen, Chief Financial Officer, presented a proposal to conduct a comprehensive review of the City's procurement process. He noted he has overseen procurement for 14 years and that the division handles approximately 400,000 contracts totaling $4.2 million annually. The review would focus on three areas: vendor outreach, building capacity, and the procurement process itself. A key component is an annual procurement forecast for contracts over $50,000 to be presented to the Audit Committee in November 2025. The committee discussed the need for local purchasing, clear definitions of "local," payment timelines, training for small businesses, and the inclusion of metrics to track outcomes. A motion was made and seconded to continue discussing the focus areas, which passed unanimously. Item 3: Creation of an Economic Development and Labor Working Group with Lanzarote, Spain - Brenda Sorensen, Director, presented a request to establish a working group focused on expanding economic and cultural ties with Lanzarote, Spain, including the potential for a direct flight between San Antonio and Spain, leveraging the 2026 World Cup and aiming for a major milestone in 2027. The committee expressed strong support, with members highlighting opportunities in technology, water management, food and wine, sports, and university engagement. A motion to establish the working group passed unanimously. The group will be tasked with exploring flight connectivity and serving as a global hub for the 2026 World Cup. Members are to be designated via a subsequent memorandum. Item 4: Composition of the Small Business Advisory Committee - Staff proposed amending the ordinance to reduce the committee membership from 15 to 11 members to ensure a quorum and productive discussions, while maintaining the existing category structure. The current composition has multiple vacancies, limiting functionality. Committee members discussed the importance of maintaining focus on small business issues and suggested including veteran-owned businesses. A motion was made and seconded to recommend an ordinance change to the full City Council to adjust the membership size and composition. The motion passed unanimously. Item 5: Update on the Economic Development Strategic Framework and Small Business System Evaluation - Brenda Sorensen provided an update on the strategic framework adopted in 2022, which has four main goals: innovation and industry, real estate, talent and workforce, and capacity and resources. She noted the completion of a 2020 Small Business System Evaluation that led to nearly $30 million in ARPA-funded programs. Staff recommended initiating a new request for proposals (RFP) to update the strategic framework and evaluate current economic conditions, including supply chain gaps, land use competition, and performance metrics. The timeline includes data collection and stakeholder engagement through winter 2025-2026, with a final report and implementation beginning in fall 2026. Committee members expressed concerns about proceeding with an RFP without first reviewing existing program outcomes, the cost of the study, and the need for alignment with other City departments. They requested a more detailed presentation on the scope, goals, and budget for the RFP before moving forward. No formal action was taken on this item as it was a presentation only. Key Outcomes - The committee voted unanimously to proceed with a review of procurement process focus areas, with staff directed to incorporate feedback on local purchasing, payment timelines, training, and veteran inclusion. - The committee voted unanimously to create an Economic Development and Labor Working Group with Lanzarote, Spain, to explore direct flights and global hub opportunities for the 2026 World Cup. Staff will bring a memorandum for member designations and next steps. - The committee voted unanimously to recommend an ordinance change to the full City Council to reduce the Small Business Advisory Committee from 15 to 11 members and adjust composition requirements. - Staff will provide a follow-up presentation on the proposed RFP for updating the strategic economic framework, including details on goals, costs, and coordination with other citywide efforts, before any solicitation is issued.

The Planning and Community Development Committee (PCDC) of the San Antonio City Council met on September 23, 2025, at 10:04 a.m. with a quorum present (Chair Mungia, Councilmembers Corps, Castillo, Galvan). The meeting included approval of previous minutes, a presentation and discussion on creating a task force to increase housing supply for special populations, and consideration of the Greater Airport Area Regional Center Plan. Consent Calendar - The committee approved the minutes of the previous meeting by a unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made or registered for the meeting. Discussion Items Item 2: Creation of a Task Force to Increase Housing Supply for Special Populations - Presentation: Veronica Garcia, Director of Neighborhood Housing Services, presented a proposal to establish a task force focused on four priority populations: veterans with housing vouchers (within 5 miles of a VA facility), people with disabilities (especially deaf and blind), seniors (older adults), and LGBTQ+ unhoused youth. The task force would be tri-chaired by Garcia, Mark Carmona (Chief Housing Officer), and Pete Alanis (San Antonio Housing Trust), and would work with the Housing Commission. The task force aims to submit a report with initial findings and recommendations to City Council by January 15, 2026. Garcia noted existing work, including the REACH Working Group for veterans with vouchers (nine recommendations, two already complete), and plans to use a digital survey and stakeholder engagement. - Committee Feedback: Councilmember Galvan requested public accessibility for the task force, engagement with relevant city boards/commissions (e.g., Veterans Commission), consideration of UDC amendments, and incorporation of existing research reports. Councilmember Castillo emphasized including justice-involved individuals with criminal records (citing trends in District 5) and stakeholders like Big Homies and Big Mama Safe House, and called for UDC updates to reflect universal design standards. Councilmember McCrock expressed support, highlighting the need for better data on LGBTQ+ youth housing needs, exploration of community land trusts, and qualitative community engagement. Chair Mungia suggested coordination with the county, a public input meeting, and monthly updates to the committee, and asked for recommendations on UDC amendments, state/federal legislation, COSA funding allocations, and the next housing bond. - Vote: A motion to recommend the creation of the task force as described passed unanimously (voice vote). Item 3: Greater Airport Area Regional Center Plan - Presentation: Bridget White, Director of Planning, presented the plan, the 12th sub-area plan under SA Tomorrow. The plan covers Council Districts 10, 9, and 1, and includes vision, goals, and recommendations on land use, mobility, amenities, housing, and economic development. It was developed with extensive community input (11 planning team meetings, four community meetings, three online surveys). Key priorities include rezoning around San Pedro and Loop 410 to encourage mixed-use redevelopment, improving connections to trails, and integrating green infrastructure. Five focus areas were identified. The Planning Commission recommended approval. - Committee Discussion: Councilmember Galvan praised community engagement and asked about coordination with TxDOT, Union Pacific, and the airport. Staff responded that they engaged with TxDOT and airport staff, and delayed the plan to align with the airport's strategic plan. Councilmember McCrock asked about incentivizing redevelopment of privately owned commercial sites (e.g., Park North) and about public art. Staff noted state law changes that may affect zoning. Councilmember Castillo thanked staff for robust engagement. Chair Mungia asked for tracking of plan amendments through zoning decisions; staff confirmed they will work with DSD to provide a report. - Vote: A motion to forward the plan to the October 2 City Council meeting for formal adoption passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - The committee unanimously approved the minutes. - The committee voted unanimously to recommend the creation of a task force to increase housing supply for veterans with vouchers, people with disabilities, seniors, and LGBTQ+ unhoused youth, with a report due January 15, 2026. - The committee voted unanimously to forward the Greater Airport Area Regional Center Plan to City Council for adoption at its October 2, 2025 meeting. Note: The meeting adjourned at 11:02 a.m.

The Planning and Community Development Committee (PCDC) met on September 23, 2025, at 10:04 AM. Quorum was present with President Galván and members. The committee approved minutes from a previous meeting and received two major presentations: one on creating a task force for special populations and another on the Airport Metropolitan Regional Center Plan. Both items resulted in motions that passed unanimously. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the previous meeting were approved unanimously after a motion and second, with no discussion. Discussion Items - Creation of a Task Force for Special Populations: Verónica García, Director of Neighborhood and Housing Services, presented a proposal to establish a task force focusing on four categories: persons with disabilities (vision/hearing), elderly, LGBTQ+ and homeless youth, and veterans with housing vouchers. She highlighted existing efforts such as 550 housing units with mobility modifications, 2,200 senior housing units (tripling the original goal), and the Valley Hills veteran housing center. The task force would develop recommendations by January 18, 2026. Councilmembers Cabán, Castillo, and Core offered support and suggested expanding partnerships (e.g., with Disability SA, Trinity University research, county justice system, and LGBTQ+ organizations). They emphasized the need for better data on unmet needs, focus groups, and alignment with the upcoming housing bond. A motion to recommend the creation of the task force passed unanimously. - Airport Metropolitan Regional Center Plan: Bridget White, Director of the Planning Department, presented the draft plan for the area around San Antonio International Airport (covering Districts 1, 9, and 10). The plan resulted from 11 planning team meetings, 3 online surveys, and 4 open houses. It includes five sections: land use, mobility, open spaces, housing, and economic development. Key strategies include rezoning along San Pedro and I-410 for mixed-use, improving connections to North Star Mall and transit, and enhancing parks like McAllister Park. Councilmembers discussed the green line bus route, public art under bridges, noise mitigation for homes near the airport, and potential incentives for converting commercial properties to affordable housing. The committee voted unanimously to forward the plan to the City Council for consideration at the October 2, 2025 B session. Key Outcomes - Motion on Task Force for Special Populations: Passed unanimously. The committee directed staff to proceed with forming the task force, including outreach to additional stakeholders and a focus on data collection and community engagement. - Motion on Airport Regional Center Plan: Passed unanimously. The plan will be presented to the full City Council on October 2, 2025, for adoption. Meeting adjourned at 11:02 AM.

The San Antonio Board of Adjustment met on September 22, 2025, at 1:01 PM to hear appeals, special exceptions, and variance requests primarily related to short-term rental (STR) permits and property development. The meeting covered ten agenda items, including several cases involving revocation of STR permits for non-payment of hotel occupancy taxes (HOT). Multiple items were postponed to October 20, 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - Kyle Baker, a resident of Cascade Oak, testified in opposition to the appeal of STR revocation at 7630 Cascade Oak (Item 4). He reported ongoing issues with parking on sidewalks, blocking access, trash, and large groups. He stated that the police were often unresponsive. - For Item 5 (145E Agarita Avenue), the applicants Alex Cruz (property manager) and Louis Sharp (owner) testified that they did not receive proper notices from the city and that the email they did receive appeared to be a scam. - For Item 12 (fence height at 6235 Pican Valley Drive), a voicemail from a resident expressed support for the fence height exception due to safety concerns from transients. Discussion Items - Item 1 (BOA 25-1030135): Special exception to add an STR permit at 1031 South Gavers Street. The applicant claimed they were unaware of the 12.5% density cap and had already invested heavily. Four neighbors expressed support. The Board debated: Commissioner Mena cited opposition from the neighborhood and noted five existing STR units within 300 feet. Motion to grant failed 1-9. - Item 4 (BOA 25-1030159): Appeal of revocation of STR permit at 7630 Cascade Oak (Type 2). The applicant, Roberto Guran, stated financial difficulties and confusion with the Avenue tax system. Staff showed nine mailed notices and a pattern of paying HOT to the county but not the city. A resident testified to ongoing nuisances. The Board found the city made no error. Motion to grant failed (1-10). - Item 5 (BOA 25-1030161): Appeal of revocation of STR permit at 145E Agarita Avenue. The applicant argued that only one email (14 days before revocation) was received, which looked like fraud. Staff showed notices were sent to the owner's listed address (2311 High Ledges). The owner admitted he had not updated his address. Commissioner expressed concerns about process. Motion to grant failed (1-10). - Item 6 (BOA 25-1030162): Appeal of revocation of STR permit at 12115 Stony Falls. The applicant, Alejandro Benavides, said they were new to the system and had since paid taxes. No code violations were found. The Board noted support from two neighbors. Motion to grant passed unanimously (11-0). - Item 9 (BOA 25-1030147): Variance to allow a 3,775 sq ft lot (minimum 4,000 sq ft) at 4546 Bundy Street for a single-family home. Staff recommended approval. Motion granted unanimously. - Item 10 (BOA 25-1030151): Special exception to allow a mobile food court within 200 feet of residential zoning at 9823 Culebra Road. The vacant lot is adjacent to a school. Commissioners found no reasonable residential development likely. Motion granted unanimously. - Item 11 (BOA 25-1030153): Three variances (accessory structure size, side setback, driveway setback) at 547 West Place to reconstruct a historic garage. The property is in a conservation district. Neighbors did not oppose. Motion granted unanimously. - Item 12 (BOA 25-1030166): Special exception for a fence height of 6 ft 4 in (maximum 5 ft open fence) at 6235 Pican Valley Drive to secure a car lot. Traffic department approved. Staff recommended approval. A voicemail supported. Motion granted unanimously. Key Outcomes - Postponed to October 20, 2025: Item 3 (BOA 25-1030155 - Jennifer Reese), Item 7 (BOA 25-1030104 - 1211 South Pine Street), Item 8 (BOA 25-... - multiple requests). - Consent Calendar: None; all items received individual votes. - Appeals of STR Revocations: Items 4 and 5 were denied (revocation upheld); Item 6 was granted (permit reinstated). - Variances and Special Exceptions: Items 9, 10, 11, and 12 were all granted unanimously. - Minutes: The board approved the minutes from the previous meeting with a note that any late amendments should be clearly marked. - Next Meeting: An extra meeting was scheduled for the following Tuesday (September 30, 2025?).

The San Antonio Board of Adjustment met on September 22, 2025, to consider a number of requests including continuances, appeals of short-term rental permit revocations, variances, and special exceptions. The board, composed of ten seated commissioners, heard testimony from applicants, staff, and public commenters. Several decisions were made, including denials of appeals for short-term rental revocations and approvals for variances and a special exception. Public Comments & Testimony - Kyle Baker, a resident living near 7630 Cascade Oak, testified in opposition to the appeal for that property (Item 4). He cited issues with parking, trash, and noise from the short-term rental, and noted that the property had operated without a permit for months. - A voicemail from Ernest Ronchers, a neighbor of 6635 Pecan Valley Drive, supported the fence height variance (Item 12), citing concerns about homeless activity under the nearby bridge. Discussion Items - Continuances: Items 2, 7, 8, and 3 were continued to October 20, 2025. Item 8 was postponed and re-advertised due to its third continuance. - Item 1 (BOA-25-1030135): Applicant Shavani Reddy requested a special exception for an additional type 2 short-term rental on S. Giever Street (Council District 2). The block face had 4 units, one existing STR, and the request would exceed the 12.5% limit. The Denver Heights Neighborhood Association opposed. The applicant stated they were unaware of the limit and had neighbor support. The board voted 1-9 to deny the request. - Item 4 (BOA-25-1030159): Applicant Roberto Bogran appealed the revocation of his STR permit at 7630 Cascade Oak (Council District 7) for failure to pay hotel occupancy taxes. Staff presented evidence of delinquent payments and multiple notices. The applicant cited financial hardship and confusion with the Avenue system. Public commenter Kyle Baker opposed. The board voted 11-0 to deny the appeal, upholding the revocation. - Item 5 (BOA-25-1030161): Applicant 145 E. Agarita Avenue LLC appealed the revocation of their STR permit at 145 E. Agarita Avenue (Council District 1). The applicant argued they did not receive proper notice and that the city made an error. Staff noted $98,000 in unreported revenue and no reports filed. The board voted 11-0 to deny the appeal. - Item 6 (BOA-25-1030162): Applicant Alejandro Benavides appealed the revocation of his STR permit at 12115 Stony Falls (Council District 10). The applicant was on a rent-to-own agreement and had since paid the delinquent taxes. The board voted 11-0 to grant the appeal, reinstating the permit. - Item 9 (BOA-25-1030147): Applicant Edgar Sanchez requested a 225 sq. ft. variance from the minimum 4,000 sq. ft. lot size to allow development of a single-family home at 546 Bundy Street (Council District 2). Staff recommended approval. The board voted unanimously to grant the variance. - Item 10 (BOA-25-1030151): Applicant Ibrahim Tamer requested elimination of the 200-foot separation requirement for a mobile food court at 9823 Culebra Road (Council District 6). The adjacent property is zoned residential but used as a school. Staff recommended approval. The board voted unanimously to grant the special exception. - Item 11 (BOA-25-1030153): Applicant Adam Ochoa requested three variances for accessory structures at 507 W. Craig Place (Council District 1): an 818 sq. ft. variance from the NCD-2 maximum accessory structure size (to allow 1,403 sq. ft.), a 4'11" variance from the 5' side setback, and a 19'6" variance from the 20' garage entry setback. Staff recommended approval for the setbacks but denial for the size variance. The board voted to grant all three variances. - Item 12 (BOA-25-1030166): Applicant Robert Grant requested a special exception to allow a 6'4" predominantly open fence (8' posts) at 6635 Pecan Valley Drive (Council District 3), exceeding the 5' maximum. The property is near a highway and used for used car sales. Staff recommended approval. The board voted unanimously to grant the exception. Key Outcomes - Continuances: Items 2, 3, and 7 were continued to October 20, 2025. Item 8 was postponed and re-advertised. - Item 1: Denied (1-9). - Item 4: Denied (11-0). - Item 5: Denied (11-0). - Item 6: Granted (11-0). - Item 9: Granted (voice vote). - Item 10: Granted (voice vote). - Item 11: Granted (voice vote). - Item 12: Granted (voice vote). - Minutes: The board approved the minutes from the previous meeting as amended.

Historic and Design Review Commission Compliance and Technical Advisory Board Meeting - September 19, 2025\n\nThe Compliance and Technical Advisory Board (CTAB) met on Friday, September 19, 2025, at 9:00 AM (presumed start time) to review three consent agenda items and two individual items. The board approved all consent items and one individual item with conditions, while the second individual item was approved with a modified motion requiring the applicant to work with staff on design and height.\n\n Consent Calendar\n- Items 1–3 (Addresses: 303 West Graham Mercy Place, 246 Thorne Boulevard, 507 East Wee Satch Avenue) were approved unanimously by a vote of 7–0. Certificates of appropriateness will be emailed within 10 days.\n\n Discussion Items\n- 624 East Gunther Street (CTAP Case 2025-228) – The applicant requested a certificate of appropriateness for replacement siding already installed on the primary structure. Staff recommended the siding be replaced with in-kind material matching original profile, dimensions, material, and finish, with a sample provided prior to installation. The applicant agreed to follow staff recommendations. The board approved the staff recommendation unanimously (7–0).\n\n- 238 Quentin Drive (CTAB Case 2025-234) – The applicant requested approval to replace an existing side balcony fence with a 4‑foot‑tall iron fence with finials. Staff recommended a traditional wood railing (height 3 feet) with top and bottom rails. The applicant argued for a 4‑foot height for safety reasons (age 65, concern about tripping) and proposed a design incorporating wrought iron panels similar to the front balcony. Discussion focused on height, material consistency, and code requirements (maximum 4‑inch gap between vertical members). The applicant indicated willingness to accept a 3.5‑foot (42‑inch) compromise. The board voted on a motion to support staff’s recommendation (3‑foot height) and require the applicant to work with staff on the final design and materials. The vote resulted in 4 ayes (Garcia, Brigard, Spiller, Vasquez) and 3 nays (Davis, Fullerton, Pollock). The motion carried. The applicant will collaborate with staff on an appropriate railing design.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- Consent items approved unanimously.\n- 624 East Gunther Street approved with staff conditions.\n- 238 Quentin Drive approved subject to staff’s original recommendation (3‑foot height) and further refinement of design with staff. The applicant’s requested height increase to 4 feet was not granted; the final height will be determined in consultation with staff based on building code and historic appropriateness.

The Technical Council (Consejo Técnico) of San Antonio convened on September 19, 2025, to advise the city on certificates of appropriateness for properties in historic districts and monuments. The council approved the minutes from the August 22, 2025 meeting, then proceeded through a consent calendar and two individual cases. Consent Calendar - Three applications were approved unanimously without separate hearings: 303 Mursi Place, 3236 Torain Boulevard, and 507 East We Satch Avenue. The applicants will receive their certificates of appropriateness by email within 10 days. Discussion Items - 624 East Gunther Street (Case 2025-228): Applicant Chris Nagle requested a certificate to replace existing siding on the structure. Staff recommended approval on condition that the new siding match the original material and that a sample of the proposed material be submitted. Nagle agreed to follow all recommendations. The council voted unanimously to approve the motion. - 238 Quentin Drive (Case 2025-234): Applicant Ron Herbert requested a certificate to replace an existing railing on a garage balcony with a wrought iron fence with wood top and bottom rails. Staff recommended approval with stipulations: the railing must be three feet (36 inches) high, with wood rails of 2x4 lumber and balusters spaced no more than four inches apart. Herbert proposed a design incorporating decorative iron panels (each 32 inches tall) and requested a height of four feet, citing his age (65) and safety concerns. Commissioners expressed concerns about design consistency with the existing ironwork on the front of the house and potential misalignment of panels. After discussion, the council moved to support the staff recommendation, including the three-foot height and traditional wood railing materials. The motion carried, although several commissioners voted against. Herbert was directed to work with city staff on the final design. Key Outcomes - Approval of previous meeting minutes. - Consent calendar approved unanimously. - Case 2025-228 (624 East Gunther Street) approved with staff conditions. - Case 2025-234 (238 Quentin Drive) approved as per staff recommendations; applicant to collaborate with staff to finalize the railing design, with height not exceeding 36 inches. - The council emphasized that no work may commence until the certificate of appropriateness is issued by the Office of Historic Preservation. - Announcement made: the first installment of the Preservation Academy series will be held (Preservation 101).

The San Antonio City Council met on September 18, 2025, at 9:05 AM with all members present and a quorum. The meeting included an invocation, Pledge of Allegiance, approval of minutes from multiple sessions in August and September 2025, and a proclamation recognizing the 78th anniversary of the U.S. Air Force. The council then moved to the consent agenda, public comments, and discussion on several key items, including the adoption of the FY2026 budget and amendments to the Council Consideration Request (CCR) ordinance. The meeting adjourned after an executive session. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from August 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, and September 2, 3, 4, 2025, were approved by voice vote. - Consent Agenda (Items 9–29): Adopted unanimously, except for Item 21, which was pulled for individual consideration. Several council members highlighted specific items, including workforce solutions funding (Item 29), a contract with Mills & Wills (Item 11), and the Lupita Rores assignment to LULAC. Public Comments & Testimony - Jack Finger opposed the proposed street name change on item 23 (Rosel Drive to Sousa Drive), calling it a waste of taxpayer money for a personal injury law firm. He also criticized the budget process and property tax increases. - Rachel Sinzwinski and Molly S. were called but did not appear; their three-minute time was yielded. - Kathy Keller and Chris Keller signed up but were not heard. - John Bachman, Steven Seseman, Martin Gordon, Angela Cabrale, Judith Gorowitz, Lauren Everhart, John Melendez, Mando Flores, Red Smith, and Chris Longoria spoke during budget hearings (Items 4–8). Key positions: - Martin Gordon (San Antonio Philharmonic) and Angela Cabrale requested restoring the Philharmonic’s funding to $400,000, emphasizing educational impact. - Judith Gorowitz (District 8) expressed fear of rising property taxes and criticized inadequate basic services (roads, traffic lights, code enforcement). - Lauren Everhart supported the Philharmonic and highlighted its economic and educational contributions. - John Melendez (Americans for Prosperity) opposed property tax increases, arguing that despite lower rates, bills keep rising due to appraised values. - Mando Flores (SME Local 2021) thanked the council for the proposed 2% wage increase plus $750 one-time payment for city employees. - Red Smith (District 8) urged a zero-based or no-new-revenue budget and also referenced violence concerns. - Chris Longoria asked for tax relief and responsible spending, stating that families are struggling with rising costs. - Jack Finger and John Bachman also spoke on Item 21 (CCR ordinance). Finger argued the council should not be overridden by the city attorney or manager, and criticized the process. Discussion Items - FY2026 Budget Adoption (Items 4–8): City Manager Eric Walsh presented amendments totaling $12 million over two years, funded by a $0.50 monthly fee increase on food establishments and vacant building registration fees, plus a $1.9 million reduction in Ready-to-Work funds. Key amendments included: - 2% cost-of-living raise for civilian employees plus a $750 one-time payment for those earning under $100,000. - 15 additional police officers (total 40, down from a promised 65). - $1 million for minor home repairs, $3 million for street lighting, $430,000 for Metro Health (including SA Kids Breathe), $91,000 for travel, and funding for Big Mama's Safe House ($144,000) and American Gateways ($50,000). - Clarification that the city will not reimburse litigation costs in agency contracts. - Tax rate set at 33.009 cents per $100 for maintenance & operations and 21.5 cents per $100 for debt service. - Council debated adding more officers: A motion by Councilmember White to fund 25 additional officers (total 65) using $1.39 million from computer replacement and delegate agency reserves failed. A second motion by Councilmember Spears to add 25 officers via $1.9 million funded by $1.3 million police overtime reduction also failed. The final budget with 40 officers passed. - CCR Ordinance Amendment (Item 21): The council considered an ordinance to clarify that CCRs do not automatically expire when a council member leaves office, and require a council vote to amend the policy. Councilmember Munguia proposed an amendment to allow CCRs to expire if the original sponsor is no longer in office; this failed 2-9. The original ordinance then passed unanimously. Councilmembers emphasized the importance of the CCR process for constituent voices and promised further review in governance committees. Key Outcomes - FY2026 Budget Adopted: The council approved the $4 billion budget with a total of 40 police officers, a 2% civilian wage increase, and a $750 one-time payment. Tax rates were set at 33.009 cents (M&O) and 21.5 cents (debt) per $100 valuation. The budget includes $122 million for street maintenance, $10 million for capital improvements, and funding for various community services. - CCR Ordinance Passed: The CCR ordinance was amended to require council votes for any policy changes and to ensure that pending CCRs continue regardless of sponsor term limits. The amendment to expire CCRs with departing sponsors was rejected. - Recognition of Retiring Staff: The council recognized Rossi (Director of Public Works, retiring after 33 years) and Lori Houston (Assistant City Manager, retiring after 26 years) for their dedicated service. Both received standing ovations. - Executive Session: The council entered executive session at 2:48 PM to discuss economic development negotiations and legal matters; no action was taken upon reconvening.