Public Meetings - San Antonio, Texas

[The regularly scheduled meeting of the San Antonio Planning Commission was called to order at 2:02 PM on Wednesday, September 10, 2025. Roll call established a quorum with Commissioners Sanchez, Garcia, DeSucci, Lopez, Olette, Mylam, Orion, Bustamante, Siegel, Prophet, and Chair Peck present. The meeting included a consent agenda and individual item 18, a budget update. Commissioner Bustamante recused herself from consent agenda items 2, 3, 9, and 12. The meeting adjourned at 2:45 PM.] Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was moved by Commissioner Siegel, seconded by Commissioner Mylam, and approved unanimously by all voting commissioners. Commissioner Bustamante recused herself from items 2, 3, 9, and 12. Discussion Items - Budget Update (Item 18): Justina Tate, City Budget Director, and Mike Shannon, Director of the newly created Capital Delivery Department, presented the Fiscal Year 2026 Proposed Budget. - Budget Overview: The total proposed budget is $4 billion, a 2.2% increase over FY2025. It comprises: restricted funds ($1.2B), capital budget ($1.1B), and general fund ($1.69B, up 1.6%). The general fund supports basic services (public safety, infrastructure, parks, code, animal care). - Deficit and Balancing: A projected $174 million deficit over two years (FY2026-2027) was balanced through spending reductions, savings from completed projects, moving operating projects to capital, implementing CPS off-system sales revenue policy (retaining $69M), and increasing fees/fines ($12M over two years). Property tax revenue is flat; the city rate remains at 54.159 cents per $100 valuation. $152 million in property tax relief is included. - Key Investments by Priority: - Homeless Services: $30.5 million for a new Homeless Services and Strategy Department, including outreach, encampment abatements (1,300 planned), low-barrier shelter ($4.8M for one year), and a long-term shelter plan. - Infrastructure: Public Works split into two departments (maintenance and capital delivery). Street maintenance: $122M (flat) for over 1,400 projects and 400 miles of streets. Sidewalk investment: $17M for 21 miles of new sidewalk and 11 miles of repairs. - Affordable Housing: $30.4 million (general fund and grants) to continue the Strategic Housing Implementation Plan (SHIP) goal of 28,000 homes by 2031, with 13,000 (47%) anticipated by end of FY2026. - Public Safety: - Police Department: $631M budget. 53 new officers (28 for new District 3 substation, 25 for citywide active patrol). Goal to achieve 60% proactive time by adding 360 officers over five years; 190 of those added by FY2026. 65 vacant park/airport police reorganized as SAPD officers. Six academy classes expected to graduate 270 officers. - Fire Department: $428M budget. 12 new firefighters for squad units at two busiest stations (10 and 21). $1.4M for a needs assessment (staffing, equipment, facilities). $291,000 for drones. - Animal Care Services: $33M budget. Initiatives to reach 100% response to critical calls by Q4 of FY2026 (up from 40% two years ago). Over 41,000 spay/neuter surgeries anticipated. - Capital Budget and New Department: Mike Shannon presented the capital budget of $1.1 billion, with $250M allocated to the new Capital Delivery Department (188 staff). Focus on delivering bond projects on time, within budget, and with over-communication to stakeholders. The 2022 bond program ($1.2B, 187 projects) is about half complete or under construction. Discussions underway to move the next bond vote to May or November 2026 (rather than 2027) and possibly shift to four-year cycles. - Commissioner Questions: - Commissioner DeSucci asked about: medical services funding, drainage mitigation, and federal funding gaps. - Response: Fire Department adds squad units to handle medical calls; $11.4 million allocated for three drainage projects impacted by June floods (Grissom Road, Old O'Connor Road, Bidal Creek). A $4 billion drainage need exists. Federal funding is tracked weekly by a committee; some grant positions reduced (immunizations, air quality), but no infrastructure grants impacted yet. - Commissioner Mylam asked about: homelessness abatements (1,300 citywide, involving outreach teams and 311 calls, with high-priority sites cleaned weekly) and police officer increase (360 positions are all patrol; total approved officers in FY2026 is 2,893, making the 360 approximately a 12.4% increase). - Presenters thanked the commission for their service. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously (with Commissioner Bustamante recused from items 2, 3, 9, 12). - Budget update received as information. The FY2026 proposed budget will be adopted by City Council on Thursday, September 18, 2025 (following work sessions and rate hearings), effective October 1, 2025. - Next steps for the bond program: continued community input and potential early vote in 2026.

The San Antonio City Council held a budget work session on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 2:01 p.m. to hear presentations on employee benefits and compensation, followed by a review of all other city departments not previously covered. The session included detailed discussions on compensation options, health care premiums, and departmental budgets, with council members expressing support for a specific compensation alternative and raising questions on various departmental operations and reductions. Employee Compensation and Benefits Human Resources Director Renee Frieda presented the proposed FY26 budget for employee compensation and benefits. The HR departmental budget is $252 million, with 94% ($237 million) in the employee benefits fund for self-funded medical plans. The city has 13,723 authorized positions (about 4,700 uniformed, 8,900 civilian). The proposed budget includes $50 million in employee compensation increases: a 2% across-the-board increase for civilian employees, an 8% increase for fire employees effective October 1, 2025, and a 4% increase for police officers effective April 1, 2026. Frieda presented two alternatives to the proposed 2%: a 3% across-the-board increase costing an additional $6.31 million across all funds, and a 2% across-the-board plus a $750 base salary increase costing an additional $7.48 million across all funds. The latter option, developed with input from the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSME) and the Employee Management Committee, would provide a 4% increase for entry-wage workers and at least 3% for those earning $75,000 or less. Frieda explained that this option maintains compression adjustments made in prior years. She also addressed health care premiums: a 5% increase for civilian employees and 10% for uniformed employees, consistent with collective bargaining agreements. She assured that no employee would see their pay increase negated by premium hikes; the highest annual premium increase is $384, affecting 80 employees, while the smallest pay increase is $748. 58% of employees would see a monthly premium increase of less than $5, and 93% less than $15. Open enrollment begins October 6, 2025, and a new guided selection tool through SAP will help employees choose plans. All Other Departments Freddie Martinez, Assistant Director of the Office of Management and Budget, presented the remaining $157.4 million of the proposed $4 billion budget, covering 21 departments across community services, operating support, and internal support. Key highlights included: - 311 Customer Service: $5.2 million budget, 60 positions, a $59,000 right-sizing reduction with no service impact. Expected to answer over 1 million calls with a 96% answer rate and 25-second average wait time. - Center City Development and Operations: $33.6 million budget, 156 positions, including $4.4 million in capital projects (Riverwalk Gate 3 repair, sidewalk renovations, Houston Street Garage improvements, staircase renovation). - Historic Preservation: $3.5 million budget, 22 positions, with a $179,000 reduction eliminating two vacant positions. Director Shannon Miller stated the vacant building program would not be impacted. - Integrated Community Safety Office: $1.55 million, 9 positions, targeting 50 good neighbor assessments with 25 properties abated in FY26. - Office of Resiliency and Sustainability: $16.2 million budget (consolidating Office of Sustainability and Chief Resiliency Office), including $9.1 million for municipal on-site solar panels across 42 sites. - World Heritage Office: $3.2 million budget, 14 positions. Director Colleen Swain noted a cautious target for creative city of gastronomy programs due to reduced international travel and her rotation off the coordinator role. - City Attorney's Office: $22.0 million, 93 positions, a $289,000 right-sizing reduction. - City Clerk's Office: $9.2 million, including $1.4 million for a potential bond election and $135,000 for a new municipal archives museum position. - Communications and Engagement: $10.2 million budget, processing over 80,000 open records requests and operating 300+ TV productions annually. - Government Affairs: $1.6 million, 6 positions, tracked over 2,200 state bills this legislative session. - Building and Equipment Services: $150.1 million budget, including $67 million for equipment renewal (166 vehicles) and $9.6 million in capital projects (deferred maintenance, EV charging infrastructure). - Compliance, Opportunity and Access: $2.7 million, 17 positions, with a $500,000 reduction eliminating two vacant positions. Director Dr. Jennifer Mata stated the office meets core services for disability and language access. The immigrant inclusion function has one staff person developing a three-year plan. - Finance Department: $33.5 million, 190 positions, eliminating five positions in the general fund (three in compliance, one rate analyst, one program manager). - Office of Innovation: $1.5 million, 8 positions, with a $175,000 reduction in R&D funding. Chief Innovation Officer Brian Dally noted the office aims to identify $5 million in potential savings through comprehensive budget reviews. - Information Technology Services: $1.67 million (likely a typo for $167 million? but as stated), 356 positions, $1.2 million in mandates (Microsoft enterprise agreement, CAD system), $4.6 million in reductions (five vacant positions, contract savings, mainframe decommissioning). - Risk Management: $32.7 million, 29 positions, conducting 500 facility safety inspections annually. - Non-departmental: $27.7 million, including $8.4 million for sales tax collection fees, $6.2 million for building maintenance, $5.1 million for Bexar Appraisal District, $1.7 million for property tax collection, $1.4 million for Carver Community Cultural Center, and $600,000 in right-sizing reductions. - General Fund Transfers: $7 million, including $2.8 million for the Agri-Crop Protection Program debt, $2.4 million for the Resiliency Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Fund. Key Outcomes - Compensation Alternative: Multiple council members (Chair Galvan, Councilwoman Castillo, Councilwoman Via Gran, Councilwoman Corps, Councilwoman Mesa Gonzalez, Councilwoman Alderete Gavito, Councilman Castillo Anghiano) expressed strong support for the 2% across-the-board increase plus $750 base salary increase (Option 2) as the preferred alternative. The mayor also praised the collaborative effort with AFSME. - Directives and Next Steps: - The mayor requested data on the workforce distribution by pay scale to understand impacts, and asked for outreach to veterans about VA benefits and TRICARE to potentially reduce city health plan costs. - Councilman White requested information on the total savings from department efficiency reviews (city manager said total exceeds $8.4 million). - Councilwoman Via Gran asked for a breakdown of employees by department for the 80% earning under $75,000. - Councilwoman Corps requested data on job offer declines. - Councilwoman Spears asked for details on the 50 neighborhood engagement sessions originally planned by the Integrated Community Safety Office (adjusted to 30 sessions). - Councilwoman Alderete Gavito asked about the discontinuation of the citywide customer satisfaction survey (response: done every other year). - Councilman Mesa Gonzalez requested more information on the e-bike pilot program. - Councilman Galvan asked for a follow-up on vacant building enforcement capacity and noted the need for a review of the Local Government Corporation (LGC) subcommittee. - Councilwoman Castillo supported re-establishing the LGC subcommittee and suggested tourist tours could offset Market Square rent if construction delays continue. - Pending Amendments: Councilwoman Castillo indicated she will put forth an amendment to restore funding for American Gateways to the previous budget cycle level. - Public Safety and Technology: Councilman White announced a pending council consideration request (CCR) on artificial intelligence policy, to be developed with the Office of Innovation. - Meeting Adjourned: The council recessed into executive session at 4:20 p.m. for discussions on economic development, real property, and legal issues, and reconvened at 5:09 p.m.

The City of San Antonio held a budget work session on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 2 p.m. to review the proposed fiscal year 2026 operating budgets for the Parks and Recreation and Solid Waste Management departments. Directors Homer Garcia and Josephine Valencia presented overviews, comprehensive budget review findings, and service priorities. Council members discussed program changes, data-driven efficiencies, tree planting, illegal dumping, trail safety, and future innovation. Parks and Recreation Department Presentation - Homer Garcia, Director, presented the FY26 operating budget. The department is nationally accredited, the second largest accredited park system, and a Gold Medal award finalist. The proposed budget across all funds is $111 million, with $74 million from the general fund. - A comprehensive budget review identified $1.27 million in reductions: lower mowing costs ($957,000), right-sized temporary staff hours due to zero-participation classes ($623,000 over two years), and data-driven maintenance worker reductions ($116,000). Additional reductions of $480,000 came from six vacant positions. - Core services include operations, maintenance, and recreation programming. The department is moving to structured programming at peak times, expanding community center hours from 2-9 p.m. to 10 a.m.-8 p.m. by adjusting staff schedules. - Tree planting: 11,000 trees proposed, including 1,200 residential trees through Cool Neighborhoods and community programs. Over 8,000 trees have been planted since FY20. The Oak Wilt replacement voucher program will begin in FY26. - Edwards Aquifer Protection Program: $10 million in capital for continued protection, targeting 2,400 acres. The Greenway trail system has 102 miles completed, with $49 million in bond projects currently in production. - Shade structures: 11 more playgrounds will receive shade in FY26 as part of a five-year program. Solid Waste Management Department Presentation - Josephine Valencia, Director, presented the proposed budget. Solid Waste is an enterprise fund with no tax dollars, funded by user fees. The combined operating and fleet services funds total $193 million. The department has 808 employees. - Services include cart collection (garbage, recycling, organics) for 382,000 ratepayers, with 60 million collections per year and 99.9% on-time performance. A Smart Collection System (SCS) using navigation tablets and video is being rolled out to reduce missed collections. - Brush and bulky collections are predicted to reach 80,000 tons this year. The city's transfer station contract ends this month; $2.5 million is allocated for repairs, with an RFP planned for January. - Illegal dumping and homeless encampment cleanups have a $7.8 million budget, with $2.2 million for encampments. The department works with SAPD on enforcement, including drones and camera trailers. - The CDL training and apprenticeship program has trained 147 individuals, with over 100 hired. No rate changes or service level changes are proposed. Discussion Items - Mayor: Asked about the tree program's impact on childhood asthma and whether the department reaches the minimum threshold for heat mitigation. Also inquired about unmet programming demand and how feedback is captured. - Chair Galvan: Questioned the 32% zero-participation classes over four years and the lack of qualitative data. Asked about tree planting breakdown by district and heat vulnerability. For Solid Waste, asked about illegal dumping cost data and hotspot maps. - Chair Core: Praised parks and suggested innovation in turf (pilot programs for alternative grass), community gardens, and Wi-Fi in parks. Proposed using solid waste trucks for flyer distribution. For Solid Waste, asked about senior walk-up program tracking and smart collection system rollout timeline. - Councilmember Aldrete Gavito: Asked about Woodlawn Lake bike path, egret management, trail safety, and oak wilt replacement program. For Solid Waste, asked about small compost bin success and alternatives to gunshots for bird deterrence. - Councilmember White: Asked about illegal dumping activity increase, contractual services increase ($6M), and vacancies (61). For Parks, asked about scaling back targets (trees, work orders) and how classes will be adjusted. - Councilmember Castillo: Praised both departments. Asked about the community tree fund and requested replenishment if zeroed out. Mentioned Greenway trail connection from Memorial High School to St. Mary's University. - Councilmember Castillo Angiano: Asked about small cart adoption rates, illegal dumping awareness campaigns, and kudos to staff. Supported collaboration for signage. - Councilmember Spears: Asked about Cloud Street Ranch Park parking, trailhead input, and UDC parkland dedication enforcement. Requested a map of potential park spaces in District 9. - Councilmember Mesa Gonzalez: Advocated for a community center in District 8, splash pads, and Frederick Park parking expansion. - Chair Mungia: Asked for shade structure lists, trail extensions (Pearsall Park to Highway 16, Port San Antonio), and illegal dumping collaboration. Praised solid waste responsiveness. - Chair Vegadon: Asked about tree giveaway safety (call before you dig), pool grading, dog parks, and hazardous waste drop-off. Requested a list of shade structures in District 3. - Chair Galvan: Discussed community center access in areas with disbanded HOAs, collaboration with libraries, and using climate ambassador programs for gardening. - Councilmember Castillo Angiano: Requested trail lighting and raised concerns about encampment cleanups as a short-term solution. - Chair Corr: Asked about Shakespeare in the Park funding, water fountain upgrades, and cost of additional trash receptacles. Proposed cost analysis for entertainment areas. - Mayor: Asked about strategic programming for youth with special needs and ensuring inclusion across districts. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken during the work session. The meeting was informational, with council members providing feedback and requesting follow-up data. - Directors committed to providing additional information on tree planting by district, illegal dumping hotspot maps, shade structure schedules, trail extension timelines, and cost estimates for additional services. - The Parks Department will continue implementing the new community center hours and monitoring effectiveness. The Oak Wilt replacement program will begin in FY26. - Solid Waste will continue rolling out the Smart Collection System, expected to be fully implemented by December 2025/January 2026. The department will explore collaboration on flyer distribution and entertainment area cost analysis. - Council members expressed support for replicating the CDL apprenticeship model in other departments and for exploring innovative turf, community gardens, and Wi-Fi in parks.

On September 9, 2025, the San Antonio City Council held a budget session to review the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budgets for the Parks and Recreation Department and the Solid Waste Management Department. The meeting featured presentations by department heads, followed by questions and feedback from council members. No formal votes were taken; the session was a briefing for discussion. Discussion Items Parks and Recreation Department (Director Homer García) - Presented the FY2026 operating budget of $111 million, with $74 million from the general fund and $18 million from restricted funds. Key restricted funds include the CPS energy use fee for aquifer protection, historic cemeteries, and tree canopy programs. - Identified $1.2 million in reductions through efficiency measures: mowing service adjustments (service levels unchanged), elimination of zero-participation recreation classes, and elimination of two vacant positions (saving nearly $400,000). These reductions were guided by data–driven analysis from the Office of Innovation. - Announced a new community center model: 19 centers will shift hours to 10 am–8 pm (previously 2 pm–9 pm) and emphasize flexible “drop‑in” use rather than hourly programming. A secondary reporting location for maintenance crews will open at Whitley Heights in District 2 to improve response times. - Highlighted tree planting: 8,000 trees have been planted in the last five years via the Residential Tree program and community tree giveaways. $2.4 million in bond funds will support tree planting on trails and streets, with more than half in high‑heat vulnerability areas. - Aquifer protection: 166,000 properties protected, 2,400 acres under conservation easements. A 10‑year, $100 million plan continues. Seven properties are currently in active conservation. - Trails: 102 miles completed; 49 new miles added. A 10‑year, $83 million regional trails investment (city, county, River Authority) began, with the first project (Sarsamora Creek) opening this fall. - Council members raised questions about: measuring the impact of tree canopy on heat and asthma (Mayor Jones), low program attendance rates and unmet needs (Council Galván, Council Munguía), survival rates of planted trees (Council Galván), shade structures and playground comfort (Council Aldere de Gavito, Council Viagran), Wi‑Fi connectivity at parks (Council Galván), and strategic plans for youth with special needs (Council Castillo). Staff committed to follow‑up data and reports. Solid Waste Management Department (Director Josephine Valencia) - Budget is an enterprise fund (no tax dollars), 64% directed to collection services. Customer satisfaction rate: 97%. Presented no fee changes for FY2026. - Smart collection system: New tablets and cameras on trucks allow route optimization and service verification. Cameras capture the area around the truck to resolve customer disputes (e.g., missed pickup or property damage). Council members raised privacy concerns about recording without resident consent; staff explained cameras are used only for operational and safety purposes. - CDL training program: Since inception, 140 participants obtained commercial driver’s licenses; more than 100 were hired by the department. This internship model is seen as a pipeline for city jobs. - Illegal dumping and homeless encampment cleanups: Budget includes $7.8 million for homeless encampment cleanup and $2.2 million for illegal dumping cleanup. In FY2025, illegal dumping cleanups exceeded 12,000. New strategies include drone surveillance and hidden cameras. Council members urged alternative long‑term solutions for encampments (Council Castillo) and requested district‑level data on hot spots (Council Galván, Council Viagran). - Transfer station: $2.5 million set aside for repairs; closure during renovations is planned, with future contract operation or repurposing under consideration. - Council questions: Council Aldere de Gavito asked about success of smaller compost bins and measuring public education campaigns; Council White noted a 6‑million‑dollar increase in recycling contract costs; Council Munguía asked about service completion rates (80% target) and staffing vacancies (61 open positions). Staff noted 64% of collection routes are completed by 5 pm and that the smart system should improve efficiency. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; the session was informational. - Parks and Recreation will provide follow‑up on: tree survival tracking, community center usage data, a comprehensive plan for shade structures, and cost estimates for water fountain upgrades in San Pedro Park. - Solid Waste will provide: cost data for illegal dumping cleanups, district‑level heat maps of homeless encampments, estimates for expanding public trash cans in high‑traffic areas, and a report on the effectiveness of anti‑dumping campaigns. - Council members expressed strong support for the CDL training program and requested its replication in other departments. - Mayor Jones emphasized the need to measure the effectiveness of tree planting on public health and asked for continued data‑driven resource allocation.

The Board of Adjustments met on September 8, 2025, from 1:02 PM to 5:20 PM to consider variance requests, special exceptions, and appeals. The board had 10 members present, requiring 8 votes (75%) for approval. Key actions are summarized below. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the previous meeting were approved unanimously. - An additional meeting was scheduled for Tuesday, September 30, 2025 (chosen over September 29 or October 3). Discussion Items & Key Outcomes Case 6 – 150 Storywood Drive (KCBOA-25-10300-130) Request: Variances for rear carport setback (from 5’ to 1’6”) and entry width (from 20’ to 7’4”). The carport existed since at least 2007. Staff recommendation: Approval. Board vote: Unanimous approval (10-0). Case 8 – 838 Culebra Road (BOA-25-10300-141) Requests: (1) Variance to reduce rear setback from 20’ to 13’7” using an alley, (2) special exception for a 6’9” open fence with stone pillars. Staff recommendation: Approval. Board vote: Unanimous approval for both (10-0 each). The Martinez Creek Neighborhood Association supported the project. Case 10 – 5207 Rogers Road (BOA-25-10300-145) Request: Special exception for an 8-foot solid front fence at a data center. Staff recommendation: Approval. Board vote: Approved with an amendment requiring the fence to be predominantly open (10-0). Case 1 – 647 Leigh Street (BOA-25-10300-137) Request: Special exception for a Type 2 short-term rental (STR) permit. An existing STR in the block already brought density to 7%; approval would raise it to 14% (exceeding the 12.5% cap). Staff recommendation: Denial. Applicant argument: Prior permit lapsed by one day; no complaints in 8 years; neighbors support. Board vote: Approved 9-1, citing unique physical characteristics and community support. Case 3 – 414 Mason Street (BOA-25-10300-149) Appeal: Revocation of a Type 2 STR permit for failure to report hotel taxes (missing reports June 2024–February 2025). Staff recommendation: Uphold revocation. Applicant argument: Wife’s high-risk pregnancy caused oversight; taxes now paid. Board vote: Appeal granted 9-1, finding extenuating circumstances. Case 4 – 704 Conway (BOA-25-10300-?) Appeal: Revocation of a Type 1 STR permit for missing tax reports. Staff recommendation: Denial. Applicant argument: Thought Airbnb was handling taxes. Denver Heights Neighborhood Association opposed. Board vote: Postponed to September 30, 2025 to allow communication with the neighborhood association. Case 5 – 422 Hardline Drive (BOA-25-10300-?) Requests: (1) Variance for corrugated metal fence material, (2) variance to reduce landscape buffer from 15’ to 5’, (3) special exception for an 8’ privacy fence. Staff recommendation: Denial for items 1 and 3. Board vote: All three requests approved (10-0) after applicant added a cap to the metal fence and based on the fence’s 20-year existence and neighbor support. Case 7 – 742 Aurora Circle (BOA-25-10300-138) Request: Variance to allow a 13-foot-wide shed addition within 3 feet of the side property line. Staff recommendation: Denial (fire and drainage risks). Board vote: Denied 7-3. Case 9 – 218 Woodleaf Street (BOA-25-10300-143) Requests: Variance for 9’11” setback for barbed wire fence and variance for corrugated metal fence material. Staff recommendation: Denial. Board vote: Both variances approved (10-0) with conditions: no barbed wire on the east side (adjacent to residential) and metal fence to have a protective cap. Case 11 – 436 West Craig Place (BOA-25-10300-146) Requests: (1) Special exception for a 5’ privacy fence (exceeding 4’ limit), (2) special exception for an entry gate, (3) variance for rear setback (20’ to 13’5” using alley), (4) variance for sight triangle (25’ required). Staff recommendation: Approval for setback, denial for fence height and sight triangle. Board vote: All requests approved (10-0) with conditions: fence in the sight triangle must be predominantly open, and fence height variance limited to 2’6” above standard (max 6.5’). Case 12 – 143, 145, 147 Forest Avenue (BOA-25-10300-152) Request: Variance to allow three-story height (instead of 2.5) for three new homes in an IDZ district. Staff recommendation: Denial. Board vote: Initial motion failed (5 yes, 2 no, 2 abstentions; insufficient votes). The board then voted to reconsider and postponed the case to September 30, 2025 for the applicant to revise the design (pull third floor forward) and seek community support. Public Comments & Testimony - Case 1 (647 Leigh St): One neighbor spoke in favor, citing rising property taxes and the need for supplemental income. - Case 9 (218 Woodleaf St): Two voicemails opposed, citing rodent issues and lack of property maintenance. - Case 11 (436 W Craig): Two voicemails supported the fence. - No public opposition was recorded for other cases.

The Board of Adjustments met on September 8, 2025, from 1:02 PM to 5:20 PM, with a quorum of 9 members (later 10). The board considered 10 cases involving variances, special exceptions, and appeals, with decisions ranging from unanimous approval to denial and continuation. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the previous meeting were approved unanimously. - An additional meeting was scheduled for September 30, 2025 (Tuesday) after a vote (8 in favor of Monday, 7 for Tuesday, 7 for Friday; motion passed aye). Public Comments & Testimony - Item 1 (647 Lay Street): Mae Fernandez, neighbor at 655 Lay Street, spoke in support of the applicant, citing rising taxes and the need for income supplementation. - Item 3 (414 Mason Street): Two voicemails from Carmen Hughes and Roxanne Garza (outside 200 ft) opposed the appeal, citing property maintenance issues and rodent problems. - Item 4 (704 Kanyeway): No public comment; motion to continue passed. - Item 5 (422 Hartline Drive): No public comment. - Item 7 (7422 Aurora Circle): No public comment. - Item 9 (218 Woodleaf Street): Two voicemails from Carmen Hughes and Roxanne Garza (outside 200 ft) opposed the request, citing rodent and debris concerns. - Item 11 (436 West Craig Place): Two voicemails from Charles Cotrell and Francisco Solis (both in favor). - Item 12 (143-147 Forest Avenue): No public comment. Discussion Items - Item 6 (150 Storywood Drive): Variance for carport side setback (3 ft 6 in) and garage entry setback (12 ft 8 in) to allow a 1 ft 6 in and 7 ft 4 in setback respectively. Staff recommended approval. Applicant Kim Jones testified the structure has existed since before 2007 and requested to improve it. No opposition. Motion passed 10-0. - Item 8 (838 Kaliber Road): Special exception for fence height (1 ft 9 in over max) and variance for rear setback (3 ft 2 in) to allow a 10 ft rear setback abutting a 13.7 ft alley. Staff recommended approval. Applicant Ivan Almaguer proposed four dwelling units. Martinez Creek Neighborhood Association supported. Motion passed 10-0 for both. - Item 10 (5207 Rogers Road): Special exception for fence height (5 ft over max) to allow an 8 ft front yard security fence for a data center. Staff recommended approval. Applicant Ted Guy testified the fence is predominantly open. No opposition. Motion passed 10-0 after amendment to specify "predominantly open." - Item 1 (647 Lay Street): Special exception for an additional type 2 short-term rental on a block face currently at 7% (exceeding 12.5% limit). Staff recommended denial. Applicant Nathan Lang testified his permit lapsed by one day, he has operated since 2017 with no complaints, and he lives on the street. Lavaca Neighborhood Association opposed via blanket denial. Motion passed 9-1 (Commissioner Dean dissenting). - Item 3 (414 Mason Street): Appeal of revocation of STR permit for failure to report HOT taxes. Staff recommended denial. Applicant Manuel Esparrago testified his wife misinterpreted Airbnb's tax remittance and personal health issues (pregnancy, NICU) caused delinquency. Taxes are now current. Government Hill Alliance supported. Motion passed 9-1 (Commissioner Dean dissenting). - Item 4 (704 Kanyeway): Appeal of revocation of STR type 1 permit for HOT tax delinquency. Staff recommended denial. Applicant Mitchell Gonzalez testified his wife was pregnant and thought Airbnb was paying taxes. Denver Heights Neighborhood Association opposed. The board voted to continue the case to September 22, 2025 (motion passed, one nay). - Item 5 (422 Hartline Drive): Variance for fence material (corrugated metal), landscape buffer reduction (from 15 ft to 5 ft), and special exception for fence height (8 ft front yard). Staff recommended denial. Applicant Arnold Uribe testified the fence has been there 20 years, neighbors support it, and the property went through rezoning and conditional use. Motion passed 10-0 for both variances and special exception after amendments (cap on metal fence, buffer reduction to 5 ft). - Item 7 (7422 Aurora Circle): Variance for side setback (4 ft 11 in) to allow a 1 in setback for a storage shed addition. Staff recommended denial. Applicant Lizette Miranda testified it's for children's storage. Opposition from neighbor. Motion failed 7-3 (Commissioners Barrington, Ibaneth, Vasquez dissenting; Chair Orion, Dean, Manna, Bragman, Ozuna, Bonias, Cruz in favor? Wait: roll call shows 7 in favor? Actually transcript: "Commissioner Manna? I concur. Commissioner Bragman. I concur. Commissioner Barrington. No, I do not concur. Commissioner Ibnith? I do not concur. Commissioner Dean. I can I concur. Commissioner El Senna? Yes, I concur. Commissioner Bunyez. Yes, I concur. Commissioner Vasquez. I do not concur. Chair Orion. Uh I concur." That's 7 in favor (Manna, Bragman, Dean, Ozuna, Bonias, Cruz, Orion) and 3 opposed (Barrington, Ibaneth, Vasquez). But motion requires 9 votes, so it failed. Yes. - Item 9 (218 Woodleaf Street): Variance for fence material (corrugated metal), side setback for barbed wire (9 ft 11 in), rear setback (29 ft 11 in). Staff recommended denial. Applicant Dan Lanfear testified the fence has been there since 2004, property is used for storage, and barbed wire needed for security. Two voicemails opposed. Motion passed 10-0 after amendments: barbed wire only on western side (not eastern side abutting resident), cap on metal fence. - Item 11 (436 West Craig Place): Variance for rear setback (7 ft 9 in), corner clear vision (14 ft 8 in), special exceptions for fence height (3 ft and 7 ft 7 in). Staff recommended approval for rear setback, denial for fence height and clear vision. Applicant Michael Reynolds testified he will install predominantly open fencing in clear vision area. Alta Vista Neighborhood Association supportive with conditions. Motion passed 10-0 for both variances and special exceptions (with amendments: predominantly open fence in clear vision area, fence height variance reduced to 2 ft 6 in). - Item 12 (143-147 Forest Avenue): Variance for half-story (height) to allow three stories in IDZ1 district. Staff recommended denial. Applicant Anthony Almaraz testified the project was approved by City Council in 2022 but UDC changes in 2023 made it non-compliant. Collins Garden Neighborhood Association opposed. After debate, motion failed (6 concur, 2 abstain, 2 no? Not enough votes). The board then reconsidered and continued the case to September 30, 2025 (motion passed). Key Outcomes - Item 6: Approved (10-0). - Item 8: Approved (10-0). - Item 10: Approved (10-0) with amendment. - Item 1: Approved (9-1). - Item 3: Approved (9-1). - Item 4: Continued to September 22, 2025. - Item 5: Approved (10-0) with amendments. - Item 7: Denied (failed to reach 9 votes). - Item 9: Approved (10-0) with amendments. - Item 11: Approved (10-0) with amendments. - Item 12: Continued to September 30, 2025, after motion to reconsider passed.

The San Antonio City Council convened on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at 9:04 AM, with all members present. The meeting opened with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by proclamations recognizing National Night Out (proclaimed for October 8, 2025) and School Attendance Month (September 2025). Councilmembers briefly highlighted local appointments and projects before approving the consent agenda. The primary substantive discussion concerned interviews for three upcoming vacancies on the San Antonio Water System (SAWS) Board of Trustees. After hearing from seven candidates, the council recessed into executive session at 11:21 AM and later adjourned at 2:11 PM without taking any public vote on the appointments. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda (items 5–36, minus item 11 pulled by staff) was approved by voice vote without objection. - Councilmembers noted specific items: Councilmember Kore highlighted item 7 (funding for the Main Plaza project and a dental partnership for children); Councilmember Villagran highlighted items 35–36 (Roosevelt pedestrian project and Swanson project from 2017–2022 bond); Councilmember Castillo noted item 26 (Metro Health partnership for dental services for Head Start children); Councilmember Galván recognized a district 6 appointee; Councilmember Mesa González recognized appointees for district 8; Councilmember Alderete Gavito recognized appointments to various boards and commissions. Public Comments & Testimony - Genio Rodríguez (public comment on SAWS) stated that SAWS has abandoned his neighborhood, causing property devaluation (from $109,000 to $20,000 or $50,000 per panelists, though panelists said they could not adjust because issues must be on the property). He also complained about fire hydrants placed in streets instead of intersections, causing further devaluation. - Jack M. Finger (public comment on SAWS) expressed concern that SAWS is considering a rate increase for 2026 and questioned the criteria used by the mayor's ad hoc committee to narrow the candidate list from 30 to 7. He alleged a potential conflict of interest for candidate Adriana Rocha García due to her past support of a tax council and lack of public online description. Discussion Items - Interviews for SAWS Board of Trustees: Three positions (northwest, northeast, southeast quadrants) were to be filled. Seven candidates interviewed for two-minute opening statements followed by questions from the council. Common topics included water loss (the council frequently referenced 21 billion gallons lost to leaks annually), infrastructure modernization, conservation, innovation (e.g., smart meters, desalination, cyber threats), and coordination between SAWS and the city on construction projects. Candidates generally supported responsible fiscal management, technology adoption, and community outreach. The interviewed candidates were: Jeff Gusberg (northeast), Greg Bagram (northeast), Jeremy Roberts (northeast), Coda Rayo Garza (northwest), Teresa Rodríguez Sipyansky (northwest), Leigh Morales (southeast), and Adriana Rocha García (southeast). Rocha García, a former city councilmember, highlighted her experience on the Municipal Utilities Committee and her commitment to sustainability and succession planning. - Point of Privilege: Councilmember Castillo Angiano honored a deceased resident of District 2 who had experienced homelessness, describing her life of community love and the challenges of trusting shelter systems. Key Outcomes - The council approved the consent agenda (items 5–36, less item 11) by voice vote. - No public vote was taken on the SAWS board appointments during the open session. The council recessed into executive session at 11:21 AM under Texas Government Code Section 551.071 (legal consultation) and adjourned at 2:11 PM without announcing any appointments. The appointments will presumably be finalized later via the process described in the meeting.

The San Antonio Zoning Board met on September 4, 2025, to consider several zoning variances, rezonings, and conditional use permits. The board approved consent agenda items, debated individual items, and voted on each, with outcomes including approvals with conditions and one denial. Public speakers expressed both support and opposition on various proposals. Consent Calendar - Items 15 and 16 were postponed to September 18, 2025. The remaining consent calendar items (1, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 17, 18, 19, 23, 24, 27, 28, 29) were approved en bloc with no individual consideration. - Three public speakers addressed consent items: Jack Finger opposed an alcohol variance near Northwest Crossing School; Sister Veronica and Michael Jeffers spoke in favor of rezoning at 301 Jeffrey Street. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 2 (alcohol variance at 7280 UTSA Boulevard): Andrew Weigler (College Park subdivision resident) opposed, citing increased crime, noise, vandalism, and traffic. Jill Lehman (property owner since 1993) opposed, describing past issues with bar owners including late-night disturbances, break-ins, and gunshots. Jack Finger opposed, noting that bars operate later than restaurants and generate 24% profit from alcohol sales, and requested that the variance be denied or restricted to restaurant hours. Olun Hassana opposed, arguing alcohol sales near a university should not be allowed because UTSA students could easily access the bar. The applicant (not named in transcript) requested approval. - Items 5 & 6 (rezoning at 1921/1923 Burnett Street): The property owners spoke in favor, describing plans for a community café, training classes, and partnerships with ministries to serve the community. Jack Finger opposed, stating that the planning department and zoning commission recommended denial because the commercial use would be in the middle of a residential block. - Item 13 (rezoning at 2227/2235 West South Cross Boulevard): Elizabeth Frossell (attorney for Dani Recycling) opposed, citing the applicant’s history of code violations and unauthorized operations. Laresa Castillo (founder of Manner and Fossifare Fathers) supported, arguing the current zoning does not cover the business and the rezoning would allow responsible operation. Gabriel Rosales (director of a citizens group) supported, saying it gives small businesses a chance. Jack Finger opposed, noting the Quintana Neighborhood Association’s opposition. Larry Garcia (Thompson Neighborhood Association) opposed, citing a history of bad neighbors and code violations. Jerry Arnold opposed, detailing 13 violations at 2227 and 26 at 2235, and that the applicant previously sought different zoning categories. - Items 20 & 21 (rezoning at 14050/13790 Joton Road): Jack Finger opposed, stating the planning and zoning commissions recommended denial because it would extend industrial uses next to multifamily residential. David Dye (engineer for applicant Myers) supported, explaining that the outdoor storage has been in place since 2006 and the applicant is seeking to conform with current zoning. Yvonne Salt (neighbor at 1375 Joton) opposed, expressing concerns about hazardous chemicals near a school and a childcare facility. - Items 25 & 26 (rezoning at location not specified in transcript): Jack Finger opposed, noting that planning and zoning staff recommended denial as it would bring a large commercial intrusion into a residential area. Discussion Items - Item 2: District 8 council member (Galván) introduced a motion to approve with conditions: alcohol consumption on premises only; alcohol sales not to exceed 30% of annual revenue; hours of operation Sunday–Wednesday 11:00 AM–12:00 AM, Thursday–Saturday 11:00 AM–1:00 AM (alcohol service stops at midnight); no transfer of ownership; cancellation if unused for 12 months. The motion passed. - Items 5 & 6: District 2 council member Castillo Anguiano expressed support, noting the rezoning would serve constituents. A motion to approve passed. - Item 13: District 5 council member Castillo noted the area is already environmentally overburdened, the Quintana Neighborhood Association opposed, and a similar application was denied in February 2024. A motion to deny passed. - Items 20 & 21: District 10 council member White thanked the planning commission and noted the applicant amended the request. A motion to approve as amended passed. - Item 22: (Rezoning at 6000 Royal Ridge, from O-2 to C-2 NA CD with conditional use for office warehouse) District 10 council member White commended the builder for working with neighbors and moved to approve as amended. The motion passed. - Items 25 & 26: District 10 council member White moved to approve as amended. The motion passed. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved by unanimous vote (no recorded opposition). - Item 2 (Alcohol Variance at 7280 UTSA Blvd): Approved with conditions. Vote passed. - Items 5 & 6 (Rezoning at 1921/1923 Burnett St): Approved. Vote passed. - Item 13 (Rezoning at 2227/2235 W South Cross Blvd): Denied. Vote passed. (Note: supermajority required due to 30% opposition but denial did not require supermajority.) - Items 20 & 21 (Rezoning at 14050/13790 Joton Rd): Approved as amended. Vote passed. - Item 22 (Rezoning at 6000 Royal Ridge): Approved as amended. Vote passed. - Items 25 & 26 (Rezoning location unspecified): Approved as amended. Vote passed. Meeting adjourned at 3:01 PM.

The San Antonio City Council met on September 4, 2025, at 9:04 AM, with Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones presiding and all council members present. The meeting opened with a musical performance by local artist Mi Pelote, followed by an invocation by Pastor Rick Godwin of Summit Church. The council addressed proclamations, adopted the consent agenda, and interviewed seven applicants for three vacancies on the San Antonio Water System (SAWS) Board of Trustees. The council recessed into executive session at 11:21 AM to deliberate on the appointments and reconvened at 2:11 PM, taking no further action and adjourning. Proclamations - SA Neighbors Together: Proclaimed October 7, 2025, as San Antonio Neighbors Together, an annual crime and drug prevention event. Chief McManus reported that 309 neighborhoods had already signed up, with a target to surpass the previous year. Multiple council members expressed support, emphasizing community-police partnerships. - Attendance Matters Awareness Month: Proclaimed September 2025 as Attendance Matters Awareness Month. Presiding Judge Carla Obleto highlighted the court’s partnership with local school districts, including Edgewood, East Central, Harlandale, Northside, SAISD, South San, Southside, and Southwest ISD. Council members stressed the link between school attendance, academic success, and long-term community outcomes. Point of Personal Privilege - Councilman Castillo Angiano honored the memory of Tamara, a homeless woman who had lived on Walter Street for over a decade and passed away on September 1, 2025. He described her life, the community’s support, and the systemic challenges of homelessness, urging broader solutions. Consent Calendar - Items 5 through 36 were adopted collectively, with item 11 withdrawn by staff. The council voted by voice vote, with no opposition reported. - Public comment: A speaker raised concerns about development over Edwards Aquifer recharge areas, requesting information on the impact of proposed easements. - Council highlights: - Councilman Galvan recognized Richard Gonzalez’s appointment to the San Antonio Dieciséis de Septiembre Commission. - Councilwoman Mesa Gonzalez noted reappointments of Jamie Kowalski to Port SA, Dr. Linda Lopez George to the Parks and Recreation Board, and Anthony Medrano to the Dieciséis de Septiembre Commission. - Chair Aldrete Gabito highlighted appointments of Clementine Pryor to the Elderly Affairs Commission, Dan Wallace to the Small Business Economic Development Advocacy Committee, and Jason Vasquez to the Historic Compliance and Technical Advisory Board. - Councilwoman Castillo Angiano supported a dental screenings partnership between Metro Health, Head Start, and Avance, serving over 5,000 children. - Chair Viagran noted the Roosevelt Pedestrian project, funded through the 2017-2022 bond. SAWS Board of Trustees Interviews - Process: The city clerk opened applications 90 days before the May 31, 2025 term expiration. Thirty residents applied; an ad hoc committee (Mayor Jones, Councilwoman Viagran, Councilman Galvan) shortlisted seven applicants for three quadrant seats (Northeast, Northwest, Southwest). Each applicant gave a two-minute opening statement and answered four pre-determined questions with two-minute responses. - Applicants interviewed: - Jeff Wurzburg (Northeast): Attorney, former government advisor. Emphasized aging infrastructure, non-revenue water loss (about 20%), drought, and the need for innovation like AI leak detection. Supported stronger coordination with the city. - Greg Mann (Northeast): Real estate and finance professional. Cited water leakage of nearly 17 billion gallons annually as the most urgent challenge. Called for capital investment in infrastructure and technology to reduce losses. - Dr. Jeremy Roberts (Northeast): CEO and college professor, currently chair of SAWS Community Experience and Dispute Resolution Committees. Stressed supply security, demand management, and water loss reduction. Advocated for stricter conservation rules in new developments. - Dr. Coda Rayo Garza (Northwest): Demographer and senior director at Every Texan. Highlighted population growth, climate variability, and aging infrastructure. Supported data-driven decisions and equitable service across the city. - Teresa Sapansky (Northwest): President/CEO of Community First Health Plans. Framed water as a health equity issue. Noted that two of three SAWS water plants were built in the 1960s and the newest in the 1980s. Emphasized fiscal discipline and public education. - Blake Porales (Southwest): Senior supplier relations manager at Niagara Bottling. Proposed partnering with irrigation equipment manufacturers to reduce water demand, similar to CPS Energy programs. Advocated for modernizing infrastructure and reducing water loss. - Dr. Adriana Rocha Garcia (Southwest): Former city council member, now CEO of the Center for Health Empowerment in South Texas. Focused on sustainability, cybersecurity threats, and succession planning. Raised concerns about PFAS contamination and the need for long-term planning. - Council follow-up questions: Council members queried applicants on reducing water loss (over 21 billion gallons reported), improving coordination between SAWS and city departments (especially during construction), enhancing community outreach on conservation, and integrating conservation into development approvals. - Deliberation: After interviews, the council recessed into executive session at 11:21 AM under Texas Government Code Sections 551.074 (personnel) and 551.071 (legal advice). The council reconvened at 2:11 PM, took no official action, and adjourned without appointing board members. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda was approved (voice vote). - The council conducted interviews for the SAWS Board of Trustees but did not vote on appointments before adjourning. The three vacancies (Northeast, Northwest, Southwest quadrants) remained unfilled at the meeting’s conclusion.