San Antonio Council Discusses Transitioning 65 Police Vacancies from Parks and Airport

The San Antonio City Council convened on August 14, 2025, to discuss several key issues impacting the city, including law enforcement transitions, budget considerations, and community services.

The meeting began with a focus on the transition of 65 vacant positions from the airport and park police to the San Antonio Police Department. Council members expressed concerns about maintaining safety in parks and at the airport during this transition. The Chief of Police is expected to provide a detailed deployment plan in the upcoming session to ensure there are no gaps in service.

Council members also highlighted the importance of park safety, noting that park police often spend excessive time traveling between locations, which detracts from their ability to monitor and serve the community effectively.

The discussion then shifted to budgetary matters, with several council members advocating for a 3% cost of living adjustment for city employees. They emphasized the need to recognize the contributions of city staff while also addressing the rising costs of employee premiums.

Additionally, the council explored the potential for reducing duplication of services among delegate agencies and discussed the importance of collaborating with the county to enhance service delivery. Council members expressed a desire to track performance and outcomes more effectively in the budgeting process, moving beyond mere output metrics.

Concerns regarding vacant building fines were raised, with council members noting that this issue is frequently brought up by residents. They also discussed creative revenue sources, including increases in parking violation fines and health inspection fees, while seeking clarity on the net impact of these changes on local businesses.

Illegal dumping was identified as a significant problem in neighborhoods, prompting calls for exploring increased fines for offenders. The council plans to address this issue further in future meetings.

Finally, the council acknowledged the funding for a low barrier shelter, recognizing its importance in addressing homelessness. However, questions arose regarding the shelter's accessibility, with council members seeking data on individuals who may have been turned away.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue addressing these pressing issues, with follow-up discussions scheduled for the next session.