San Antonio council approves two-year pilot allowing up to 10 off‑premise digital kiosks over preservation objections

San Antonio City Council approved an ordinance on June 12 to authorize a two‑year pilot program allowing off‑premise digital media and arts kiosks at up to 10 city‑approved locations, despite sustained public opposition from preservationists and tour guides who said the signs would harm the city’s historic character.

The pilot authorizes a maximum of 10 kiosks citywide, with no more than three kiosks in any designated area. The city would require each kiosk operator to pay an initial $100,000 permit fee to the city’s arts fund, and staff described a revenue model that begins with a minimum 10% city share of gross revenues (staff said the share could rise to 15% if the pilot is extended). The city also would retain 20% of the kiosks’ “time share” to display municipal messages and art. Staff recommended exclusions for sensitive sites such as the Paseo del Río and other historic…