San Antonio · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in San Antonio public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
2027-2032 Bond Program Size and Allocations
The Council took up the bond resolution with roughly $442 million in general obligation capacity plus an expanded stormwater bond. Members debated the stormwater fee increase (now estimated at $1.08 more per month for the average homeowner by year five), F-street funding formulas, and whether $35 million in downtown infrastructure should sit inside the bond or be paid from the Project Finance Zone.
2027-2028 Economic Development Incentive Guidelines Revision
A new study shows the city's incentive programs return $2.19 per dollar spent, with $33.66 in private investment per incentive dollar. Returns dipped from 2022, largely because the Toyota mega-project isn't in this round. Members want the data translated into district-specific policy and public-facing messaging.
2026 Status of Poverty Report
The 2026 poverty report reveals that roughly 250,000 San Antonians live in official poverty, with 44% falling below the ALICE threshold. Persistent poverty remains concentrated in specific census tracts for decades, exacerbated by stagnant wages and soaring housing costs.
FY 2027 Proposed Budget Review
The commission will review the proposed budget for FY 2027 to see how funding impacts local entrepreneurs, small business assistance, and city economic initiatives.
90th State Legislative Program Priorities
The city is establishing its legislative agenda for the upcoming Texas legislative session, focusing on protecting local control, securing funding for infrastructure like the South Texas Parkway and flood mitigation, and safeguarding municipally owned utilities.
FY 2027 Operating and Capital Budget and Property Tax Rate
The city faces a $158 million shortfall due to rising costs and slowing revenues, leading to $90 million in spending reductions, fee hikes, and property tax adjustments.
FY 2027 City Budget and Ad Valorem Tax Rate
The city is reviewing its $4.4 billion proposed budget and property tax rate increase, balancing funding for core services against resident concerns over tax hikes and budget cuts.