San Antonio Council Discusses New Fire Station and Staffing Needs for Emergency Services

In the heart of San Antonio's city hall, council members gathered on August 19, 2025, to address pressing community needs, particularly in the Stone Oak area. Councilwoman Spears passionately advocated for a new police substation, emphasizing the urgent demand from her constituents. "My district is screaming at me for this," she stated, highlighting the challenges of a non-walkable area plagued by issues like speeding and theft. Her call for increased police presence resonated with the council, as she expressed confidence in the city's budget to support the addition of 40 new officers.

The discussion quickly shifted to the broader implications of public safety and emergency response. Joe Jones, president of the San Antonio Firefighters Association, raised concerns about rising emergency response times, which have climbed to an average of over eight minutes. He pointed out that the increasing call volume on fire crews is straining resources, with some engine companies handling up to 4,500 runs annually. "We're not seeing anything to alleviate it," Jones remarked, stressing the need for additional staffing and resources to ensure the safety of both firefighters and the community.

The council also explored the potential for a fourth shift for firefighters, a proposal aimed at addressing the growing demands on the fire department. Jones noted that the current staffing model is outdated, leading to increased stress and health risks for firefighters. "When you're clocking in at 12, 11, 10 runs a shift, you're not sleeping through the night," he explained, underscoring the need for a more sustainable approach to staffing.

As the meeting progressed, the conversation touched on the importance of a comprehensive needs assessment for both police and fire services. Council members expressed their commitment to understanding the evolving needs of the city, particularly as it continues to grow. "We need to balance what that service requirement is," said a council member, emphasizing the necessity of adapting to demographic changes and urban development.

In conclusion, the special session highlighted a collective determination among San Antonio's leaders to enhance public safety and emergency response capabilities. With a focus on proactive measures and community engagement, the council aims to address the pressing needs of its residents while ensuring that the city's emergency services are equipped to meet future challenges. As discussions continue, the commitment to a safer San Antonio remains at the forefront of the council's agenda.