City Proposes $69.3M Development Services Budget Amid 7% Staffing Cuts

San Antonio's City Council has approved a budget of $69.3 million for the Development Services Department for the fiscal year 2026, reflecting a 7% reduction aimed at managing expenses. This budget includes $18.5 million from the general fund and $48.8 million from the Enterprise Fund, with $2 million specifically allocated for street light improvements.

To address the budget cut, the department plans to freeze 42 positions, a strategic move to control costs while continuing to meet the city's development needs. The department has been active, processing over 3,700 residential and 2,200 commercial permits this fiscal year, with a total of 167,000 customer interactions, including walk-ins and online inquiries.

The permit activity has shown fluctuations, particularly influenced by interest rates. Following a spike in permit applications in early 2021 due to historically low interest rates, the number of permits has dipped as rates increased in 2023. However, both residential and commercial permit activities are stabilizing, with expectations for only a slight decrease in the upcoming year.

The Development Services Department remains committed to timely inspections, achieving a 99% success rate in meeting inspection requests, which is crucial for preventing project delays. This focus on efficiency and customer service underscores the department's role in supporting San Antonio's growth and development.