Housing concerns dominated the San Antonio City Council's budget work session on September 16, 2025, as council members emphasized the urgent need to address the city's housing crisis. Discussions highlighted the necessity for increased funding and strategic planning to tackle housing issues, which have been exacerbated by ongoing construction and financial challenges.

Council members expressed frustration over the lack of visible support for housing initiatives, stressing that housing should be the top priority. One member pointed out, "We need to address our housing problems," urging colleagues to focus on solutions that align with the city's goals. The conversation also touched on the importance of small businesses and infrastructure, with calls for a tiered budget approach to ensure effective allocation of resources.

In addition to housing, public safety emerged as a critical topic. The council debated the need for more police officers to enhance community safety, with some members advocating for increased funding to support law enforcement. Concerns were raised about the balance between funding for police and other essential services, such as domestic violence prevention programs.

The session concluded with a commitment to revisit these discussions in future meetings, as council members seek to finalize a budget that addresses both housing and public safety needs. The urgency of these issues reflects the broader challenges facing San Antonio as it navigates growth and community well-being.