City Council proposes $50M wage increases and new homeless strategy department

The San Antonio City Council convened on August 14, 2025, to discuss key budgetary adjustments and strategic initiatives for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting highlighted significant wage increases for city employees, homelessness services, and infrastructure improvements.

The session began with a focus on employee compensation, where it was announced that over 13,000 city employees would receive a 2% wage increase, while firefighters would see an 8% adjustment, and police officers would receive a 4% increase, all in accordance with their respective collective bargaining agreements. The total budget for these wage adjustments is projected at $50 million, marking the largest incremental increase in the city's $4 billion budget. Additionally, civilian health care premiums are set to rise by 5%, the first increase since 2018, while police and fire premiums will increase by 10%.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing homelessness. The proposal to establish a dedicated Homeless Services and Strategy Department was introduced, aimed at enhancing the city’s outreach and coordination with nonprofit partners. An additional $4.8 million is allocated to continue funding a low barrier shelter, which is essential for providing immediate assistance to the homeless population. The shelter is expected to serve 450 individuals, with a goal of achieving 250 positive exits to stable housing.

The council also discussed plans to address encampments, committing to visit high-frequency areas and scheduling 1,300 abatements for the next year, with a target to shelter 600 unsheltered individuals.

In terms of infrastructure, the council proposed the creation of a Capital Delivery Department, which will focus solely on managing and executing capital projects. This initiative stems from a comprehensive review of public works and aims to improve the efficiency and communication of infrastructure projects across the city.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city’s commitment to enhancing employee welfare, addressing homelessness through strategic initiatives, and improving infrastructure management as part of its budgetary priorities for the upcoming fiscal year.