San Antonio Council Addresses Impact of Grant Expirations on SA Forward Plan Services

In the heart of San Antonio's city hall, council members gathered for a pivotal budget work session on August 26, 2025, where the future of community health services hung in the balance. As discussions unfolded, the looming expiration of critical grants, including the Medicaid waiver, took center stage, raising concerns about the sustainability of the SA Forward Plan—a key initiative aimed at enhancing public health in the city.

The SA Forward Plan, which constitutes about a quarter of the city's operating budget for the upcoming fiscal year, has relied heavily on these grants for its foundation. With the Medicaid waiver set to expire in October 2026, over 80 staff positions supporting various health programs—including diabetes care and oral health—are at risk. Council members expressed a sense of urgency, recognizing that the loss of funding could significantly impact not only direct services but also the overall health outcomes for the community.

One council member emphasized the need for a dual perspective: understanding both the optimistic potential of securing additional resources and the stark reality of what would be lost without them. The conversation highlighted the importance of preparing for the impending funding cliff, as the council seeks to navigate the challenges ahead while ensuring that essential services remain intact.

In addition to health services, the discussion also touched on the future of senior centers in District 6. While current funding has spared these centers from immediate cuts, concerns linger about their viability in 2027. Council members voiced the necessity of addressing gaps in services for seniors, particularly in underserved areas of the West Side. The lack of accessible community spaces for seniors was a recurring theme, with calls for long-term solutions to ensure that residents do not have to travel far for essential services.

As the meeting concluded, the council's commitment to community health and well-being was evident. The path forward may be fraught with challenges, but the discussions underscored a collective determination to seek innovative solutions and maintain support for San Antonio's most vulnerable populations. The future of the SA Forward Plan and senior services remains uncertain, but the council's proactive approach signals a willingness to confront these issues head-on, ensuring that the needs of the community are not overlooked.