City Council Proposes Fee Increase for Vacant Properties and Discusses Airport Contract Goals

The San Antonio City Council held a special session on September 2, 2025, focusing on several key issues, including proposed fee increases for vacant properties and updates on local contracting goals.

During the meeting, council members discussed the need to raise fees associated with vacant properties. The proposed increase aims to cover administrative costs, with suggestions to raise the fee from $180 to $250. This change is intended to encourage property owners to maintain their properties and reduce violations.

Council members also inquired about compliance rates regarding property violations. Questions were raised about whether property owners are adhering to regulations or if violations are recurring. The discussion highlighted the importance of effective communication with residents about code enforcement and the need for accessible information regarding property violations.

Another significant topic was the city’s contracting goals, particularly concerning local businesses. Council members requested updates on metrics related to contracts awarded to local firms, especially in capital projects. They emphasized the importance of tracking these metrics to ensure that the city meets its goals for local business engagement.

Additionally, the council addressed staffing levels within the development services department. Concerns were raised about the impact of current vacancies on service delivery. The department confirmed that while there are 42 to 45 vacancies, they do not anticipate any negative effects on service levels, as they are not filling these positions immediately.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city’s commitment to improving property management and supporting local businesses while ensuring that service delivery remains unaffected by staffing changes. The council plans to continue monitoring these issues closely in future sessions.