City Responds to Encampment Issues with Coordinated Abatement Strategy

Encampment abatements took center stage during the San Antonio City Council Special Session on August 20, 2025, highlighting the city's commitment to addressing homelessness and ensuring community safety. City officials reported a coordinated approach to managing encampments, emphasizing the health and safety risks posed to both residents and those living in these areas.

The city anticipates conducting abatements for approximately 1,369 encampments this year, surpassing their initial target of 1,300. Officials noted an impressive average response time of just 13 days from the initial report to the abatement process, showcasing their efficiency in handling these situations.

As part of the abatement process, the city provides at least 48 hours of advance notice to encampment residents, ensuring they receive outreach and service connections before removal. This includes collaboration with the solid waste department, which has successfully removed over 2,500 tons of debris from these sites. The average cost for each abatement is reported to be just over $2,000, excluding additional support from the police department.

City leaders underscored the importance of preventive measures in homelessness intervention, stressing that early support can significantly reduce the need for encampment removals. The community connections hotline has expanded its services this fiscal year, now offering benefits navigation to assist those in need.

As the city continues to tackle homelessness, officials remain focused on providing comprehensive services and support to ensure the safety and well-being of all San Antonio residents.