City Council Approves $200K Fee Increases and Highlights Code Enforcement Successes

The San Antonio City Council held a special session on September 2, 2025, focusing on land development, code enforcement, and various community programs. The meeting highlighted significant progress in land development, with the approval of 147 major plots and 267 minor plots this year, alongside the issuance of 491 zoning verification letters. These efforts align with the city’s development goals.

In the realm of code enforcement, the council reported a 90% compliance rate for property maintenance violations resolved within 45 days. Additionally, the proactive response rate to 311 calls has reached 76%, surpassing the council's goal of 65%. The graffiti abatement team has addressed 62,598 sites this year, showcasing the city’s commitment to maintaining public spaces.

The council also discussed proposed updates to various permitting fees, some of which have not been revised in over a decade. Notable increases include the junkyard permit fee, which is proposed to rise to $1,000 annually, and the dangerous premise abatement fee, which may increase to $250. If approved, these changes could generate an additional $200,000 in revenue for the city.

The meeting also covered ongoing programs aimed at improving community safety and housing standards. The proactive apartment inspection program has conducted over 61,000 inspections since its inception, with a compliance rate of 49 out of 2,031 inspected complexes. Furthermore, the senior assistance program, which aids elderly and disabled residents with property maintenance, has successfully assisted 57 households this year.

Lastly, the council is working on a strategic plan for code enforcement, which includes community feedback sessions to ensure policies align with residents' priorities. The engagement of council members in these sessions underscores the city’s commitment to transparency and community involvement in governance.