Public Meetings - San Antonio, Texas

This meeting of the San Antonio Zoning Commission was called to order at 1:00 PM by President John Bustamante (District 5). The commission addressed a consent agenda, a postponement, and two individual public hearing items. Key decisions included approval of a multifamily assisted‑living project and a conditional use for a wireless communications tower. Consent Calendar - Case Z2025-031 (District 10): Request to rezone from R4 to MF33 at 900 Somerset Road. Staff noted no opposition, no support, and no registered neighborhood association. Approved. - Case Z2025-032 (R4 to C2NA with conditions): Conditional uses for truck repair, a gym, and vehicle sales at properties along Pedro Street, Watkins Lane, and Culebra Rural. Staff reported 152 notices sent, no opposition, and support from the neighborhood association. An amendment was read to one of the properties along Culebra. Approved as amended. - Case Z2025-033: Rezone from I1 to R4 at 421 Frio City Road. No opposition, no support; neighborhood association did not respond. Approved. - Case Z2025-034: Change from FBZ T6‑2 to FBZ T62SHL at 110 Lexington Avenue. One notice in favor, none against; SDEX of District 1 did not respond. Approved. - Case Z2025-035: Rezone from R6 to AR6HL at 945 West Wizach Avenue. No opposition, no support; Beacon Hill Neighborhood Association supported; District 1 Residents Association did not respond. Approved. - Case Z2025-036: Rezone from I2 to AC3 at 370 Aca Doches Broad. No opposition, no support; no neighborhood association within 200 feet. Approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Cynthia Walker (10 West Avenue): Called in to support Case Z2025-035, praising the owner’s research to obtain historic designation and preserving Beacon Hill’s history. - Jeff Hernandez (2107 Sunshine Drive): Voiced opposition to Case Z2025-010 (barbershop), citing concerns about increased traffic and neighborhood change. - Anonymous caller (247 Sunshine Drive): Also opposed Case Z2025-010. Discussion Items Case Z2025-002 – 1730 & 1714 Saltillo Street (District 5): Owner requested rezoning from R5 to MF25 to build four buildings with a total of 12 units intended as assisted‑living for seniors (ground floor) and workforce housing for health‑care professionals (second floor). The property backs onto a park. 45 notices were sent; no responses received. Staff recommended denial because the proposal is inconsistent with the surrounding single‑family character and density guidelines. Commissioners debated the density concerns but noted the supportive land use and support from the Shadow Neighborhood Association. Approved 9‑1 (Commissioner Kelly voted no). Case Z2025-012 – 603 Pierre Avenue (District 5): Request to rezone from R5 to RM5S with special authorization for a 65‑foot wireless communications tower (ATT/FirstNet) and a potential duplex/triplex. Staff recommended denial, stating the non‑residential use is inappropriate in the residential district and could set a precedent. The applicant (Vince Géminis) argued that after a year of searching, this was the only viable location; a neighborhood meeting on August 12, 2025 was well‑received. He presented coverage maps showing a gap in service that the tower would fill. The request included an amendment to move the tower 10 feet north to reach 196.6 feet from the nearest single‑family structure (still 3.5 feet short of the required 200‑foot setback). The commission noted no public opposition was received. Approved (amended). Key Outcomes - Consent agenda items 3, 4 (as amended), 5, 6, 9, and 11 were approved unanimously. - Case Z2025-010 was postponed to October 7, 2025 (unanimous). - Case Z2025-002 was approved (1 vote against). - Case Z2025-012 was approved (as amended). - Minutes from the previous meeting were approved by acclamation. - The commission was informed of a vacancy for Vice‑Chair; an election will be held at the next meeting. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 1:15 PM.

The Public Safety Committee of the San Antonio City Council met on September 16, 2025, with a quorum present. The meeting began with the approval of the May 19, 2025, minutes and then focused on defining committee responsibilities, discussing subcommittee work on interpersonal violence and elder abuse, and receiving detailed presentations from city departments on these topics. Council members asked questions about shelter funding, data analysis, and community outreach, and the meeting concluded with public comment. Consent Calendar - The minutes from May 19, 2025, were approved by a unanimous vote. Discussion Items - Committee Overview and Subcommittee Assignments: The chair outlined the committee’s purview (public safety policies, emergency preparedness, animal care, lighting and shade) and confirmed that two subcommittees would operate: Interpersonal Violence (with council members including the chair and Castillo) and Elder Abuse (with council members Castillo, Mickey Rodriguez, and Spears). The committee discussed future agenda items for October and November, including a focus on making crime data more digestible and prioritizing needs analysis. - Interpersonal Violence Presentation: Erika Stevenson, Violence Prevention Administrator, presented an overview of city efforts to address domestic and interpersonal violence. She highlighted the multi-departmental approach (Police, Metro Health, City Attorney’s Office, Municipal Court, Human Services) and provided statistics: domestic violence calls for service over three years, reports over four years (consistent), and homicides (30 in 2020, 22 in the current year). Metro Health provides victim advocates and a high-risk team. The Municipal Court handled about 1,200 assault cases in fiscal year 2024 (69% family-related). Human Services allocated $1.3 million in 2024, with $500,000 to nonprofit agencies. Council members discussed emergency shelter funding (hotel contracts for 5 days), asking about recidivism data and follow-up on protective order violations. One council member noted that raw numbers alone lack analysis and requested case-level insights. Another asked about SB9 and coordination with the county. - Elder Abuse Presentation: The Director of Human Services and Chief Salomé from the Police Department presented on elder abuse prevention. Key data: only 1 in 24 cases is reported; 1 in 10 older adults is abused annually; Bexar County has the highest investigation rate per 1,000 adults among large Texas counties. Financial crimes (credit card abuse, fraud, identity theft) are rising. For physical assaults, 388 cases were reported so far in 2025. Perpetrators are often family members (majority), followed by non-family (13%) and unknown (6%). The city has trained 6,900 employees in a 45-minute awareness program and plans to expand city-wide. The Police Department uses trauma-informed training and refresher courses every three years. Human Services runs financial counseling and benefit navigation through senior centers, plus community resource fairs and town halls. Council members emphasized reaching isolated older adults, addressing addiction among perpetrators, and improving communication about available services. One member noted the success of previous town halls on fraud. Public Comments & Testimony - A public speaker expressed concerns about police training on elder abuse, alleging that officers only receive computer-based training (“next, next, next”) and that he and his son have experienced harassment when attempting to report or document incidents. He urged more effective, hands-on training and accountability. Key Outcomes - The committee received the presentations and directed staff to provide monthly updates on the work of both subcommittees, with the chair sending correspondence to the mayor and community within 10 days. - Council members requested additional data on recidivism, protective order violations, and further analysis to link city programs to outcomes. Specific follow-ups include a survivor-experience report from the CCDB and a deeper dive into youth-related family violence.

The San Antonio Building Standards Board convened on September 11, 2025, at 1901 South Alamo Street, San Antonio, Texas. The meeting was chaired by [Chair's name not provided in transcript]. Board members present included Dr. Orlenda Lopez Rodriguez, Kayla Miranda, George Grimes, Joel Slay Samuel, and Erla (likely Erlinda). Staff from the City Attorney's Office and Development Services Department were also present. The board heard and voted on five property cases, including three demolition orders, one repair order, and one combined demolition/repair. One public comment was read into the record. The board also received an update on administrative changes and rescheduled a meeting date. Staff Updates & Emergency Demolitions - Emergency demolition of 107 Duffield, Council District 1, occurred on August 8, 2025, due to an extensive fire on August 1, 2025. No further board action required (Chapter 6-175). - Emergency demolition of 1622 North Hamilton, Council District 1, occurred on August 15, 2025, due to an extensive fire on April 15, 2025. Staff noted that DSD became aware on August 8, 2025. No further board action required. Public Comments & Testimony - A written comment from Dan Stenthol, resident of 311 West Meadow Lane Drive, was read into the record. Stenthol expressed strong support for demolition of 215 West Meadow Lane Drive, citing observed public nuisances including use of the property for construction storage, loud metal fabrication, unknown individuals entering at odd hours, and trash bins left in the street. Discussion & Action on Cases Case 1: 829 Hutchins Place (Accessory Structure) - Staff recommendation: Demolition of accessory structure. - Key facts: Second hearing; prior 90-day repair order issued March 13, 2025, with notice to vacate. Property owners (Tankersley, Fisher) not present. DART inspection on August 13, 2024, found individuals living inside without restroom/kitchen, extension cords, weapons, and severe deterioration. Roof sagging, rotted wood, missing siding, and evidence of vagrant activity. No scope of work or permits provided. - Police testimony: Officer Richard Summerville (South SAFE Unit) reported complaints of heavy foot traffic, narcotics use, and homeless activity. Multiple arrests made, including one for felon in possession of a firearm on DART warrant day. - Board vote: Unanimous (all ayes) to demolish accessory structure within 30 days and clean debris. Case 2: 215 West Meadow Lane Drive (Main Structure) - Staff recommendation: Demolition. - Key facts: First hearing; owner present (Ms. Mara Ramos, accompanied by husband). Owner expressed intent to demolish but cited financial difficulty due to husband's accident and pending loan. A demolition permit application was filed on August 11, 2025, but still pending approval. No other scope of work or financial proof provided. Inspection revealed missing siding, exposed wiring, water damage, mold, and shifting foundation. - Owner testimony: Requested three months to complete demolition. Husband is seeking a loan; they plan to do the work themselves. - Discussion: Board considered allowing time for permit approval. Motion was made to demolish within 90 days (amended from 30 days) to accommodate permit timeline and financing. Legal advised using days rather than permit approval as trigger. - Board vote: Unanimous to demolish within 90 days. Case 3: 407 Thorne Boulevard (Accessory Structure) - Staff recommendation: Demolition of accessory structure. - Key facts: First hearing; property owned by deceased mother, estate being administered by son (Mr. Ricardo Morales). Accessory structure (detached garage) converted into living area without permits. DART inspection on February 11, 2025, found kitchen sink, toilet, shower installed without permits. Structural issues: loose floor tiles, water damage, separation from wall. No permits on file. - Owner testimony: Mr. Miguel Morales (brother) and Mr. Ricardo Morales (administrator) present. They expressed desire to demolish the accessory structure once they can obtain permit. They are working through estate issues (seven heirs). They requested a month to demolish after permit. - Police testimony: Officer Gino Flores (Central SAFE Unit) testified to ongoing nuisance over four years: criminal activity involving drugs, thefts, burglaries, homeless camps, stolen vehicles linked to address. Latest call was September 7, 2025, for homeless camps. Current occupants have left. - Board vote: Unanimous to demolish accessory structure within 30 days. Case 4: 1338 Brighton (Main and Accessory Structures) - Staff recommendation: Demolition of main structure, repair of accessory structure. - Key facts: First hearing; owner Mr. Romeo Vasquez present. He purchased property at end of 2024 and obtained a residential repair permit on January 27, 2025 (for four windows, one door, new laminated floors). Work on accessory was done without permit, and a stop work order was issued. Owner provided engineer's letter and proof of $38,000 in bank account (U.S.) plus $15,000 in Mexico. He requested five months to complete repairs on both structures. - Staff testimony: Code officer Bregarian Bledzel detailed severe deterioration: main structure resting on grade, sagging roof, rotten wood, missing siding, interior floors uneven/spongy, bathroom with water damage. Accessory structure had sagging roof, missing fascia, exposed plumbing. Owner had also applied for additional permits (not yet issued). - Board vote: Unanimous to repair both main and accessory structures within 90 days. Case 5: 132 Enrique Street (Main and Accessory Structures) - Staff recommendation: Demolition of both structures. - Key facts: First hearing; owner (Esperanza B. Guajardo) not present. Contact made with daughter-in-law. No scope of work, financial proof, or permits on file. Structures severely dilapidated: main structure shifted from foundation, resting on grade, holes in roof and walls, interior full of debris, egress hazards. Accessory structure also deteriorated with holes, missing skirting, evidence of vagrant use. - Board vote: Unanimous to demolish both structures within 30 days and clean debris. Key Outcomes - 829 Hutchins Place (accessory): Demolition ordered within 30 days. Unanimous. - 215 West Meadow Lane Drive (main): Demolition ordered within 90 days. Unanimous. - 407 Thorne Boulevard (accessory): Demolition ordered within 30 days. Unanimous. - 1338 Brighton (main & accessory): Repair ordered within 90 days for both structures. Unanimous. - 132 Enrique Street (main & accessory): Demolition ordered within 30 days for both structures. Unanimous. - Administrative: - Director Michael Shannon left DSD; Amin Tomaz appointed as new director, Melissa Ramirez as deputy director overseeing code and inspections. - The full BSB meeting originally scheduled for November 13, 2025, has been moved to October 16, 2025, to allow DSD management to present updated code strategic plan. Panel B will still meet on November 13, 2025. - A representative from NHSD (DART unit) will attend the October 16 meeting to answer questions related to DART inspections only; additional questions may require another NHSD representative.

The San Antonio City Council met on September 11, 2025, at 9:02 AM with quorum present. The meeting began with a moment of silence for the 24th anniversary of 9/11, an invocation by Reverend Marchine Pawell Chish, and the Pledge of Allegiance. Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones read a proclamation declaring September 15 to October 15, 2025 as Hispanic Heritage Month, recognizing the 31st anniversary of the San Antonio de SCS de Siempre Commission and upcoming Fiestas Patrias events. Consent Calendar - Items 5 through 22 were approved as a group, with the exception of Item 7 which was pulled for individual consideration. - Councilmembers highlighted several appointments and approvals: Sandy Millman Ramirez to the San Antonio de SCS de Siempre Commission (District 7); Carla Gargiolo to the San Antonio Public Library Board, Jean Russell to the Pre-K for SA Early Childhood Board, and Melanie Menendez Gonzalez to the Mayor's Status of Women Board (all District 1); and the closure of four unimproved paper alleyways in District 3 to support affordable housing with ROC USA. Public Comments & Testimony - Consent Agenda (Item 22 – Affordable Housing): Jack Finger spoke against funding for affordable housing at Teasel Road, calling it "welfare housing" and expressing concern that taxpayers make up the difference. He also criticized settlement items 19 and 20, questioning whether city employees face consequences. - Budget Hearing (Item 4): - Alison Hahn Crozier (Rape Crisis Center) reported that their FY26 contract was cut in half, threatening advocacy positions. She requested restoration to FY25 funding levels, noting that the center served 653 survivors in the first 10 months of FY25 (up from 441 in FY24). - Kayla Carter (nonprofit representative) stated her organization was told their contract would be extended through May 2026, then learned it would not be renewed due to ARPA fund expiration. She requested the city honor the $92,000 commitment through May 2026. - Jack Finger criticized city spending on the Esperanza Peace and Justice Center and the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion department, and argued for a 10% reduction in the property tax rate since valuations have risen. - Thelma Gonzalez (San Antonio Farmers Market Plaza Association) and Yvette Ramirez requested a construction mitigation grant program for 48 small businesses and over 100 employees at Historic Market Square who must vacate for five months due to HVAC upgrades. They noted those businesses have contributed over $5.3 million in rent and sales tax to the city in five years. - Molly S. urged council to reconsider budget plans for 1,800 additional homeless sweeps, stating sweeps result in deaths and do not help the unhoused community. Discussion Items - Item 4 – FY2026 Budget and Tax Rate: Budget Director Justina Tate presented the proposed $4 billion budget (including $1.7 billion general fund) with no property tax rate increase for the 33rd consecutive year (rate remains 54.159 cents per $100 valuation). Base values decreased 0.9% while new value growth was 1.76%. The budget includes $152 million in property tax relief and fee changes for food establishment inspections based on sales volume. Two more work sessions will precede adoption on September 18, 2025. Councilmembers spoke in favor of no tax increase and maximizing homestead exemptions. - Item 7 – Ordinance Amending Chapter 5 (Animals) to Prohibit Abandonment: Director John Gary explained the ordinance originated from a CCR regarding peafowl (Peafowl) but was expanded to cover all animals. The proposed ordinance makes it a Class C misdemeanor to intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly abandon or release any animal that has been trapped and within a person's control (minimum fine $500 for first offense). State law already prohibits unreasonable abandonment (Class A misdemeanor). Staff recommended approval. - Public comment: Six speakers opposed the ordinance (Kirsten Nickel, Molly S., Jack Finger, Kelly Walls) arguing it is poorly written, could penalize good Samaritans and rescuers, duplicates state law, and does not address root causes (ACS, 311 directing people to release animals). They asked council to delay and hold public meetings. - Council discussion: Councilmember Aldrete Gavito (sponsor) and legal staff clarified that "trapped" means physically caught in a trap; trap-neuter-return (TNR) of cats is protected; accidental release of wildlife is not penalized; and the ordinance targets those who trap and abandon animals, not children releasing frogs or dogs running out of yards. Several councilmembers supported the ordinance as a needed accountability tool for public safety, noting residents demand action on loose and abandoned dogs. Councilmember Galvan raised process concerns about the expansion not going through committee. Mayor Jones suggested a short delay for public input and clarifying language to match state law, but Aldrete Gavito declined, stating the issue cannot be delayed. The vote proceeded. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda approved (Items 5-22, minus Item 7) on a motion and second, unanimous. - Item 4 – Budget Public Hearing closed at 9:54 AM. No action taken; final budget adoption set for September 18, 2025 at 9 AM. - Item 7 – Animal Abandonment Ordinance approved on a motion and second. The motion carried (voting not specified, but no objections noted). The ordinance will take effect after publication. Council requested public education and a communications plan from ACS and 311. - City Manager's Report: Announced that City Attorney Andy Segovia will receive the San Antonio Bar Foundation Outstanding Lawyer for Community Service Award on September 20, 2025. - Point of Personal Privilege: Councilwoman Spears honored the late Charlie Kirk, calling for an end to political violence. The meeting adjourned at 10:54 AM.

The Public Works Committee of the City of San Antonio met on September 11, 2025, to address dangerous structures. The committee approved minutes from August 14, 2025, received an update on four emergency demolitions due to fires, and heard five property cases. Decisions included demolition orders for four properties and a repair order for one property, all passed unanimously. One public comment letter was read in support of demolition. The meeting also included administrative updates on personnel changes and a rescheduled full board meeting. Consent Calendar - The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the August 14, 2025, meeting after a motion by Joseph Samen and a second by Jos Rams. - Staff reported four emergency demolitions conducted under Chapter 6, Section 7.5: - 17 Westfield (demolished Aug 8, 2025, due to fire on Aug 1) - 1622 North Hamilton Street, District 1 (demolished Aug 15, 2025, due to fire on Apr 15, 2025; staff noted they were notified on Aug 8) - 719 Ogden Street (demolished Aug 25, 2025, due to fire on Aug 15) - 1202 Simpson Street (demolished Aug 25, 2025, due to fire on Aug 19) No committee action was required. Public Comments & Testimony - A written public comment from Dance Dental at 21 West Merrow Lane Drive, dated September 10, 2025, was read into the record. The comment supported the demolition of 215 West Meadow Lane Drive, citing patterns of illegal dumping, noise, and suspicious activity that had been a nuisance to the neighborhood. Discussion Items 829 Hutchins Place (District 2) - Code Officer Chris Regarsa presented the case, recommending demolition of the main structure and an accessory unit. The property was first cited on March 13, 2025, and received a 90-day repair order with evacuation. The owner, Tankers Lee, Tammy Ray, Michelle Lee, and Justin Bradley Fisher, was not present. Police Officer Richard Sabel testified that the property had been a site of drug use, homeless activity, and weapons possession; he had made arrests. The committee found the structure dangerous under code sections 1,2,5,7,8,11,12,15,17,18 and not repairable. - Motion: Demolish within 30 days and clear debris. Passed unanimously. 215 West Meadow Lane Drive (District 10) - Code Officer Stephanie Sánchez presented the case, recommending demolition. The owner, Mayra Ramos, appeared and requested time to demolish the property herself, as she had applied for a demolition permit and was seeking a loan. She stated she could complete the work in three months. The committee noted that a permit application had been submitted on August 11, 2025, but was incomplete. The owner provided no work plan or proof of funds. A public comment letter in support of demolition was read. - Motion: Originally for demolition within 30 days; amended to 90 days from the date of the order to allow the owner to obtain financing and complete demolition. Passed unanimously. 407 Thorne Boulevard (District 1) - Code Officer Christy Garza (presenting on behalf of Crystal Town) recommended demolition of an accessory structure that had been converted to a dwelling without permits. The property had been inspected on February 11, 2025, and again on August 13, 2025. The owner, Ricardo and Miguel Morales, were present. Police Officer Eugenio Flores testified that the property had been a crime nuisance with drug activity, stolen vehicles, and homeless encampments. He noted that activity had decreased recently. The owners did not present a repair plan. Miguel Morales moved the motion for demolition. - Motion: Demolish the accessory structure within 30 days and secure the property. Passed unanimously. 1338 Brighton (District 5) - Code Officer Brigitte Bledsoe presented the case, recommending demolition of the main structure and repair of the accessory structure. The owner, Romeo Vázquez, appeared and provided an engineer's letter, a work plan, and proof of funds totaling approximately $93,000 (bank account in U.S. and Mexico). He requested five months to complete repairs to both structures. The committee noted that the owner had obtained some permits but had done work without permits on the accessory, resulting in a stop-work order. The owner expressed intent to comply. - Motion: Declare the property a public nuisance but repairable; order both the main and accessory structures to be repaired within 90 days of the order. Passed unanimously. 132 Enrique Street (District 5) - Code Officer Jaime Haso recommended demolition. The owner, Esperanza B. Guajardo, was not present; the committee noted contact with the owner's daughter-in-law. The property had been inspected on July 9, 2024, and August 13, 2025. No work plan or financial proof was submitted. The structure was found to be deteriorated, with evidence of vagrancy. - Motion: Demolish within 30 days and clear debris. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Votes: All five property motions passed unanimously. Four demolitions (829 Hutchins Place, 215 West Meadow Lane Drive, 407 Thorne Boulevard, 132 Enrique Street) and one repair order (1338 Brighton). - Timeframes: Demolitions generally ordered within 30 days; 215 West Meadow Lane allowed 90 days due to owner's request. Repair for 1338 Brighton ordered within 90 days. - Administrative updates: - A correction was made to the record for 1622 North Hamilton Street: the first inspection occurred on August 8, 2025, not on the fire date of April 15. - Personnel change: Director of Public Works Michael Shannon has moved to another department; Tomás is now director, and Melissa Ramírez is co-director overseeing code and inspections. - The full board meeting scheduled for November 13, 2025, has been moved to October 16, 2025, to accommodate an administrative code plan discussion. - Clarification that the committee will have two Panel B meetings in November (November 6 and November 13).

The San Antonio City Council convened at 9:02 AM on September 11, 2025, under Mayor Ron Jones. The meeting began with a moment of silence for the 24th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, followed by an invocation from Reverend Marchine Cavall Jish and the Pledge of Allegiance. The council approved minutes from August 26 and 27, recognized Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15–October 15) with a proclamation read by Mayor Jones, and adopted the consent agenda (items 5–22) with the exception of item 7, which was pulled for individual consideration. A combined public hearing on the proposed FY2026 budget and ad valorem tax rate was held, with several residents and representatives speaking on funding cuts and service needs. The council then debated and voted on an ordinance to prohibit animal abandonment, ultimately passing it. The meeting adjourned at 10:54 AM. Consent Calendar - Minutes of August 26 and 27, 2025, were approved unanimously. - Consent agenda items 5 through 22 were approved as a group, with the exception of item 7 (pulled by Councilmember Alderete Gavito). - Councilmember Villagrán highlighted item 6, which authorizes alleyway improvements (invasion permits) to facilitate affordable housing development in the Northeast, partnering with Rocky SA and Mission Trails Association. - Councilmember Corr recognized three appointees: Carla to the library board, Jim Russell to Child Board SA, and Melanie Menéndez González to a commission. - Councilmember Alderete Gavito recognized Sandy Romero Ramírez as a new appointee to the September 16 Commission. Public Comments & Testimony - Jack Finger (on consent items): Objected to item 22 (affordable housing), calling it "welfare" for recipients and costing taxpayers $8–9 million. Questioned items 19 and 20 regarding liability of city employees, arguing the language creates unfair records. - Alison Kangroschen and Adria Oscar (RCC Crisis Center): Spoke during the budget public hearing. Described RCC's 50-year history serving sexual assault survivors. Reported that a federal funding cut had halved their city contract for FY2026. Requested restoration to FY2025 levels to maintain statutory advocacy services. - Keyla Carter (Forehair): Stated her organization had been led to expect a contract extension through May 2026, but learned funding would end September 30, 2025. Requested the city honor the extension to avoid a 2092% budget deficit for domestic violence survivor services. - Eva Ramírez (Farmers Market Association): Representing 48 small businesses at Market Square that were displaced for six months due to HVAC installation. Requested immediate mitigation relief (rent/expense forgiveness) through August 2026, noting $3.3 million in sales taxes contributed from the building alone. - Molly Ash: Urged the council to reconsider removing homeless encampments from the budget, arguing it leads to deaths and that the city is not addressing the housing crisis. - Thelma González (Farmers Market treasurer): Yielded her time to Eva Ramírez. - Jack Finger (budget comment): Advocated for cutting $13 million from the diversity, equity, and inclusion department and from sex work education programs. Called for a 10% property tax rate reduction. Discussion Items - Item 7 – Ordinance to Prohibit Animal Abandonment (Chapter 5 Amendment): - Councilmember Alderete Gavito (sponsor) explained the ordinance originated from a City Council Resolution (CCR) in March 2024 focused on peafowl (pavos reales) but expanded to cover all animals. It creates a Class C misdemeanor for trapping and releasing animals (excluding community cats under Chapter 5.04 and state law exceptions). Penalties: $500–$2,000 fines, escalating with repeat offenses. - Public speakers: - Christian Neko: Expressed concern that the language is poorly written and may penalize well-intentioned rescuers (e.g., releasing a trapped animal after care). Asked the council to slow down. - Jack Finger: Stated the CCR was 90% about peafowl and the expansion is premature. Questioned how it applies to animals that escape on their own (e.g., dogs, cats). Advised postponement for proper public input. - Kelly Walsh (rescuer of 20 years): Argued the ordinance is hard to enforce (requires witness to trapping), does not address the true abandonment crisis (e.g., owners dumping pets), and could penalize samaritans. Noted that 3-1-1 sometimes tells people to release animals back. - Council discussion: - Director John Gary (Animal Care Services) confirmed the ordinance has minimal impact because enforcement is difficult (only about half a dozen successful cases per year). He clarified it complements state law (which covers intentional/unreasonable abandonment) and does not apply to accidental escapes, community cats, or wildlife released legally. - Councilmember Alderete Gavito requested legal clarification (City Attorney Andy explained trapping means intentional capture with a trap, not incidental). She emphasized education and communication with residents. - Councilmember Villagrán expressed support, noting the need to prevent animals from being dumped (e.g., boxes of puppies in the river). She stressed education and responsible ownership, referencing a campaign started under Mayor Castro. - Councilmember White thanked the sponsor and noted the process included public committee meetings. Called abandonment "cruel." - Councilmember Castillo supported, citing public safety concerns from stray dogs. She asked for assurance that the ordinance targets intentional abandonment, not accidental escapes. - Councilmember Corr echoed support, stating the ordinance addresses both proactive education and reactive consequences. - Councilmember Galván noted the issue is urgent in his district. He emphasized the need for continued funding for spay/neuter, shelter space, and education. - Councilmember Alderete Gavito proposed postponing to October 2 to allow legal harmonization with state law and development of a detailed communication plan. This suggestion was not seconded. A motion to approve the ordinance as written passed. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved (items 5–22) except item 7. - Item 7 (animal abandonment ordinance) passed by voice vote (motion carried). The council directed the legal department to ensure language compatibility with state law and Animal Care Services to develop and disseminate public education materials. - Budget public hearing closed; no action taken. The council will continue budget discussions on September 18, 2025, at 9:00 AM. - Proclamation recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15–October 15, 2025) was read and accepted. - Recognition: City Attorney Andy was honored for receiving the 2025 Foundation Award from the San Antonio Bar Foundation, to be presented September 20. - Moment of silence held for the 9/11 anniversary. - Adjournment at 10:54 AM.

The San Antonio City Council held a special session on September 11, 2025, at 1:00 PM to consider a resolution censuring District 8 Councilmember Mónica Mesa González following her arrest for driving while intoxicated (DWI) earlier that year. The meeting included public testimony from multiple residents and a council discussion leading to a vote. Councilmember Mesa González did not resign, but the council voted to approve the censure resolution. Public Comments & Testimony - Greg Quiroz, a registered nurse working in emergency services, expressed strong opposition to DWI and argued that elected officials must be held to higher standards. He displayed graphic images from DWI awareness campaigns and criticized the double standard where councilmembers face lesser consequences than ordinary citizens. - Teresa Blacky referenced a previous case involving a treasurer’s arrest and called for transparency and consistency. She urged the council to replace the councilmember temporarily and criticized the removal of alcohol concentration data from official reports. - Paula Maguire, a former member of the city’s ethics committee, called for Councilmember Mesa González to resign, stating that a simple apology or procedural remedy cannot restore lost trust. She argued that the councilmember’s conduct (driving with twice the legal limit) contradicted her stated priority of public safety and constituted hypocrisy. - Jack M. Finger criticized the proposed censure as having no real penalty and urged stronger action, such as “putting the person in shackles” to send a serious message. He noted that the blood alcohol content still needed to be adjudicated in court. - Signal Pecasque presented what he claimed was public evidence showing that both Councilmember Mesa González and Councilmember White were arrested without a warrant, and that their police reports had similar blank spaces regarding blood samples. He questioned the fairness of censuring only one councilmember and called for equal protection under the law for all citizens. Discussion Items - Councilmember Galvara expressed support for the censure motion, stating that Councilmember Mesa González is taking responsibility and will continue working hard for her constituents. She affirmed her confidence in her colleague’s future work. - Another councilmember (name not clearly stated in transcript) thanked the public for speaking and emphasized that councilmembers are not above the law. He acknowledged that personal actions affect public trust and that accountability is necessary, while noting that he himself had a legal issue two months ago but was not serving on the council at the time. He voted in favor of the resolution. Key Outcomes - The council voted to approve a resolution to censure Councilmember Mesa González. The motion passed with no recorded dissent or abstentions; no vote tally was provided in the transcript. - Councilmember Mesa González did not resign, stating she would continue to serve District 8 and work with her colleagues. - The meeting was adjourned at 1:25 PM.

This special meeting of the San Antonio City Council was called to order at 1:00 p.m. on September 11, 2025, to consider a resolution censuring Councilwoman Mesa Gonzalez following her DWI arrest. After public testimony and council discussion, the resolution was approved. Quorum was present. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were considered. Public Comments & Testimony - Gregory Kiros (Greg Kiros), a licensed nurse and EMT, expressed strong opposition to impaired driving, sharing personal experiences from the emergency department and images from campaigns against DWI. He argued that council members should face consequences similar to those for ordinary citizens and called for Councilwoman Gonzalez to resign or not seek re-election. - John Quiros yielded his time to Gregory Kiros. - Teresa Blocky drew parallels to a school board trustee DWI case and emphasized the need for transparency and consistency. She urged the council to take 110 steps toward connection and listening over the next 54 days until the election. - Paula McGee spoke on behalf of citizens, calling for leadership, accountability, and high ethical standards. She argued that driving while intoxicated at nearly twice the legal limit is not a private mistake and urged the council to let constituents know that integrity still matters. - Jack M. Finger, a former ethics review board member, stated that censure carries no real penalties and criticized the lack of teeth in the council’s actions. He suggested passing an ordinance with more serious consequences and warned that those censured could play victim or race cards. - Nikolai Zabowski presented governmental records, arguing that Councilwoman Gonzalez was arrested without a warrant and that no blood sample was taken, similar to a prior case involving Councilmember White. He did not give an opinion on the censure but urged protection of citizens’ rights. Discussion Items - Councilwoman Mesa Gonzalez made a statement accepting accountability, apologizing to District 8 residents, and affirming her commitment to continue serving. - Councilmember (Chair) Galvan expressed support for the censure vote, stating it demonstrates accountability, but emphasized that Councilwoman Gonzalez has continued working hard for her constituents and will remain an effective colleague. - An unnamed councilmember (likely a new member, based on remarks about serving only one and a half months) thanked the public for speaking and supported the resolution. They noted that council members are held to a higher standard and that incidents like this undermine public trust. They stressed that council members are not above the law and that the censure sends a message of accountability. Key Outcomes - Resolution to Censure Councilwoman Mesa Gonzalez – The motion was made, seconded, and carried. The exact vote tally was not stated in the transcript, but the mayor declared the motion carried. No dissenting votes or abstentions were mentioned. - The council’s action publicly reprimands Councilwoman Gonzalez for conduct unbecoming of an elected official, but no other penalties (e.g., removal from committees, loss of privileges) were discussed or imposed. - Meeting adjourned at 1:25 p.m.

On Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 2:01 PM, the San Antonio City Council held a budget session focused on employee compensation, benefits, and departmental budgets for the fiscal year 2026. The meeting covered presentations from Human Resources (Renée Frida) and the Budget Office (Freddy Martínez), followed by extensive council discussion and questions. The session concluded at 4:20 PM with a transition to executive session. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were identified in the transcript. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments from residents or external stakeholders were recorded during this session. Discussion Items Employee Compensation and Benefits - Human Resources Director Renée Frida presented the proposed budget for employee compensation, including a $252 million total for HR and benefits (94% for employee benefit fund, 6% for operations). The city has 13,723 authorized positions (9,089 full-time civilian, 400 part-time). - Three compensation options were presented: - Option 1: 2% across-the-board increase, costing $13 million across all funds. - Option 2: 3% across-the-board increase, costing $19 million ($6.3 million from general fund). - Option 3: 2% plus a $750 base increase (with additional 4% for those earning under $75,000), maintaining compression adjustments. - An additional 8% increase for current police and 4% effective April 2026 for San Antonio police were noted. - Average compensation: civilians $66,887 base ($91,918 with benefits); police $80,696 base ($168,380 with benefits); fire $72,936 base. - The city spends $0.39 per dollar on benefits for civilians and $0.62 for police. - Council members expressed strong support for Option 2 (2% + $750), citing the need to retain employees and address cost-of-living concerns. Several councilmembers (Galván, Villagrán, Castillo, Munguía, Aldrete Gavito, etc.) voiced backing for this option. - Discussion on wage compression: HR explained that compression adjustments were made over the past three years to differentiate pay for experience, but ongoing compression issues remain, especially for entry-level workers. - Council members requested additional data on compensation by department and for those earning under $75,000. Department Budget Presentations - Budget Director Freddy Martínez covered 21 departments not previously reviewed, totaling $157.4 million (excluding internal service funds). - Key departments included: - 311 Customer Service: $5.2 million, handling over 1 million calls annually, 96% response rate, 26-second wait time. - Center City Development & Operations (CCDO): $33.6 million for River Walk, Market Square, parking, and the Villita. - Historic Preservation: $5 million (22 positions) for building and heritage programs. - Integrated Community Safety Office (ICSO): Focus on violence reduction and community evaluations. - Resilience & Sustainability: $16.2 million for climate action, EV infrastructure, and energy efficiency. - City Attorney's Office: $22 million, 93 positions. - City Auditor: $3.5 million. - City Clerk & Elections: $2 million, including new municipal archives museum. - City Manager's Office: $10.2 million for communications and intergovernmental relations. - Veterans & Military Affairs: Supported base retention and partnerships. - Budget Office: $3.7 million. - Equipment & Building Services: $121 million for fleet and facility maintenance ($5 million for police substation electric charging). - Access & Opportunity Compliance: $2.7 million (reduced by $500K due to two vacant positions). - Finance: $33.5 million (five positions eliminated). - Innovation Office: $1.5 million for business process improvements. - Information Technology Services: $94 million for cybersecurity, Microsoft licensing, and CAD system. - Risk Management: $32.7 million for worker's compensation and safety. - Non-Departmental: $27.7 million for tax collection, building maintenance, and transfers. Specific Concerns Raised by Council - Wage Compression: Multiple council members stressed the need to address compression to retain experienced workers. - Mayor's Communications Consultant: Councilmember White questioned a $10,000/month external consultant hired by the Mayor's office. The Mayor confirmed the contract is in line with previous mayors' support and was approved through proper procurement. - Vacant Buildings: Council members highlighted the need for proactive enforcement and sufficient staffing in the Historic Preservation Office's vacant building program. The office noted they have maintained capacity despite a vacated position. - Sustainability & Resilience: Concern that consolidation of the office might dilute resources; council urged continued funding for community resilience centers. - Market Square Tenants: Councilmember Munguía raised rent abatements due to construction delays; the city confirmed an extension until the end of the month but noted limited funds. - DART (Dispute Alternative Resolution) Program: Praised for addressing problem properties, but some council members noted delays and requested faster processes. - American Gateways Funding: Councilmember White opposed using taxpayer dollars for legal services for immigrants, while others supported continuation. - Veterans Benefits Outreach: Council encouraged HR to partner with the VA to help veterans access benefits and TRICARE. - LGC (Local Government Code) Positions: Several council members called for a review of LGC classifications and a potential subcommittee to assess improvements. - Technology & Innovation: Councilmember Spears and White expressed interest in a CRM system and an AI policy; the Innovation Office is working on a strategic plan. Key Outcomes - Support for Compensation Option 2: A majority of council members expressed support for the 2% across-the-board increase plus a $750 base increase (Option 2), with additional 4% for those earning under $75,000. Formal adoption will occur in later sessions. - Direction to HR: To continue monitoring wage compression and provide data on vacancies and declinations by position. - Request for Departmental Details: Council asked for more granular budget breakdowns, including by department for compensation levels, and follow-up on specific programs (e.g., Por Vida, sustainability, vacant buildings). - Procurement Clarification: The Mayor confirmed that the communications consultant contract followed standard procedures and was not a campaign expenditure. - Future Reviews: Council will revisit the LGC subcommittee, sustainability consolidation, and Market Square support in upcoming budget sessions. - Transition to Executive Session: At 4:20 PM, the council moved to executive session under Chapter 551 to discuss economic development, real estate value, and pending litigation.