City Proposes Budget for 2024 Including New Police and Firefighter Positions

The San Antonio City Council convened on August 14, 2025, to discuss key budget proposals and public safety initiatives for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting focused on the allocation of funds for police and fire departments, as well as various community services.

The session began with a review of the proposed budget for public safety, which includes a total of $136 million for the police department. This budget aims to fund the hiring of 53 new police officers, with 28 positions designated for supervisory roles at the South Flores substation. The council emphasized the importance of maintaining proactive response times and community engagement as the city continues to grow.

In addition to police funding, the fire department's proposed budget stands at $428 million. This budget will support the establishment of four new emergency response units, which are strategically located to enhance response times for medical emergencies, as 80% of calls pertain to medical services. The council also discussed the need for evaluations of personnel and equipment to ensure the fire department remains prepared for emerging trends in emergency response.

The meeting further addressed the budget for animal care services, which has seen consistent support over the past two years. The council highlighted improvements in metrics related to animal adoptions and community engagement, indicating a positive trend in service delivery.

Additionally, the council reviewed funding for various community agencies, totaling $28.9 million. This includes support for programs aimed at homelessness, senior services, and after-school safety initiatives. The proposed budget reflects a slight reduction in funding for some agencies, which the council noted is a response to previous spending patterns.

The discussion also touched on the city's utility fund, projected at $161 million, which provides essential services to approximately 380,000 residents. The council is monitoring illegal dumping and homelessness as part of its ongoing efforts to maintain community standards.

Looking ahead, the council plans to present the proposed budget in detail during the following week, with discussions expected to continue into the fall regarding funding allocations and community needs. The meeting concluded with a commitment to prioritize public safety and community services as San Antonio navigates its growth and evolving challenges.