San Antonio proposes $1.08B public safety budget with 53 new police officers

In a recent San Antonio City Council meeting held on August 14, 2025, discussions centered on the proposed public safety budget for the upcoming fiscal year, highlighting significant investments in both police and fire services. The proposed budget reflects a commitment to enhancing public safety amid tight financial constraints, with a notable increase in funding allocated to these core services.

The public safety budget for fiscal year 2026 is set at approximately $1.08 billion, representing 63.7% of the general fund budget of $1.6 billion. This marks an increase from 61.6% in the previous fiscal year. Within this budget, the police department is proposed to receive $630.6 million, which includes funding for the addition of 53 new police officers. This includes 28 supervisory positions necessary for the upcoming South Flores Police substation, scheduled to open in 2027, and 25 officers aimed at enhancing patrol capabilities. The city aims to adjust officer time to prioritize proactive engagement with the community, targeting a 60% proactive and 40% reactive work ratio.

The fire department's proposed budget stands at $428.5 million, focusing on two main areas: expanding the enhanced squad unit program and conducting assessments of staffing, equipment, and facilities. The enhanced squad units, which respond to a high volume of medical calls, will see an increase from four to six units. Additionally, the fire department plans to allocate $1.4 million for assessments to evaluate current staffing needs and the condition of fire stations, ensuring they meet the demands of the community.

The meeting also addressed the integration of drone technology into fire operations, with plans to enhance situational awareness and operational efficiency. This initiative reflects a broader trend of utilizing technology to improve emergency response capabilities.

Overall, the discussions during the meeting underscored the city council's commitment to public safety and the strategic allocation of resources to meet the growing demands of San Antonio's population. As the council prepares for further discussions on the police budget, the focus remains on balancing financial realities with the need for effective public safety measures.