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Committee forwards revised trades advisory board proposal to Economic & Workforce Development Committee

Governance Committee (City of San Antonio) ยท November 7, 2025
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Summary

After public comment from labor and contractors, staff presented a red-line advisory-board proposal that staff and the city attorney reviewed. Committee approved forwarding the trades advisory board CCR to the Economic & Workforce Development Committee for development of membership and scope.

Mike Shannon, director of the Capital Delivery Department, presented a red-lined revision of a council consideration request to create a San Antonio Trades Advisory Board (TAB). Shannon said staff worked with the city attorney's office to ensure the board would be advisory only and consistent with the city charter. He recommended that Capital Delivery lead development of the board's scope and that the item move to the Economic & Workforce Development Committee for further stakeholder work and eventual council consideration.

Two public commenters had spoken earlier on the item. Charles Fuentes, representing Communication Workers of America Local 6143 and labor partners, said the TAB is "a meaningful step forward ensuring that our city's investments reflect strong labor standards, fair wages, and real opportunity for San Antonio's working families," and urged the committee to move the item forward. Michelle Davis, president of ABC South Texas, urged equal representation for nonunion contractors and said, "As drafted, the TAB membership remains largely limited to union affiliated or pro union organizations," adding that the committee should ensure the board is balanced, advisory and complies with state and federal law.

Council members who sponsored the CCR said they supported the revised language and the advisory approach. Councilwoman Castillo called for a diverse stakeholder group and thanked the city attorney's office for the edits. Councilman Mickey Rodriguez said the trades and those who build and maintain city infrastructure deserve a seat at the table.

A motion to send the revised TAB CCR to the Economic & Workforce Development Committee was made, seconded and approved by voice vote. Staff said further stakeholder work will develop membership, scope, and reporting for an advisory board to return to council.