City Leaders Plan Tabletop Exercise to Address Rising Homelessness and Data Collection

San Antonio city officials are taking proactive steps to address the growing challenges of homelessness and housing instability in the community. During a special city council session on August 20, 2025, discussions highlighted the urgent need for improved data collection and collaboration with local partners to better understand and respond to these issues.

A key focus of the meeting was the alarming statistic presented by city staff, indicating that a 100% increase in median rent correlates with a 9% rise in homelessness. This data underscores the vulnerability of many residents, particularly children, who are disproportionately affected by housing instability. City leaders emphasized the importance of preparing for potential funding decreases from federal and state levels, which could further strain local resources.

To enhance their response, city officials announced plans for a tabletop exercise aimed at refining their strategies and assumptions regarding homelessness. This exercise will foster collaboration with Bexar County and other community partners, ensuring a coordinated approach to tackling these pressing challenges.

Additionally, the city is set to improve its data collection efforts through shared services with the Department of Human Services. This collaboration will leverage existing staff and resources to conduct deeper analyses of the homeless response system. City leaders expressed that increased investment in data collection would enable them to better understand the demographics and needs of those affected by homelessness, ultimately leading to more effective interventions.

As San Antonio moves forward, the city council's commitment to addressing housing instability and homelessness reflects a broader recognition of the community's fragility. The outcomes of these discussions and planned initiatives will be crucial in shaping a more resilient future for all residents.