Hello D6,

The City has taken a positive step regarding the management of short-term rental properties.

WATER MANAGEMENT

I frequently mention how our water supply is secure until 2050. The Water Management Plan that SAWS presented to Council this week takes it to another level, to secure water until 2075.

District 6 is the fastest growing area of the fastest growing city in the country. Water supply always comes up in conversations with residents, businesses, and industries that are setting their roots in the far west side, especially the cyber and data industries.

We've seen a dramatic increase in data centers coming to San Antonio because of the stability of our utilities, and the cost of energy and water supply.

It frames San Antonio as a forward-thinking city, a city that plans and executes. The best news is the diversification of our water supply. We’ve depended on the Edwards Aquifer for generations, but San Antonio is changing and our dependence on mainly one source should change too.

WATERING

SAWS also presented new watering rules intended to bring the 10% of SAWS customers who are over users, and customers who live outside of the city boundaries into compliance. It stands to reason that 90% of SAWS customers won’t be affected by the changes because they follow irrigation rules.

There are several things I like about the new rules. One is that it makes SAWS customers outside of the City of San Antonio comply with conservation rules. This is a big community and we’re all affected by the drought and by our neighbors' usage.

Another thing I like is that the fee structure is fair, both because the violation charges will now be part of the SAWS bill and because it’s an alternative to criminal charges.

I was glad to see that only 2% of homes in District 6 use more than 20,000 gallons of water per month. I’m looking forward to discussing what can be done to target and lower those numbers in D6.

CORAZON MINISTRIES

The best way you can show compassion for the houseless in our community is by supporting organizations like Corazón Ministries.

Corazón has been supporting the houseless with compassion for 25 years, meeting their basic needs where they are, helping them find a way to stabilize their lives.

Thank you Erika Borrego, Brittney Ackerson, Madeleine Santibanez, and Morgan Handley for inviting me to see firsthand how Corazón makes a difference in a dedicated, personal way.

STARS AND STRIPES

The 4th of July is going to be special in downtown San Antonio this year!

For the first time ever, Houston Street will be decked out with Independence Day colors and celebrations.

Thank you City of San Antonio staff, Centro San Antonio, The Alamo, and Visit San Antonio for your work to plan all the family events that will happen from July 1 to 7. This is going to be so much fun!

INDIA DELEGATION

One of the Council assignments I cherish the most is being the designated liaison for Chennai, India.

San Antonio maintains a long-time Sister City relationship with Chennai. I visited Chennai in 2023 and had the honor of welcoming a delegation of Chennai officials to City Hall.

They were interested in learning more about our river development and invited us to return to their beautiful city.

SAMCo - CORPUS CHRISTI

I visited Corpus Christi this week to attend a SAMCo regional transportation summit with folks from the City of Corpus Christi, Nueces and San Patricio Counties, Bexar County, the Port of Corpus Christi, CPS Energy, TxDOT, and representatives from area engineering firms.

We’re working to build a strong, regional future. It’s all about getting things done!

Special shoutout to Corpus Christi Councilwoman Sylvia Campos!

ARMY BIRTHDAY

I was thrilled to join in celebrating the Army's birthday during Council’s A Session on Thursday.

This is a day that means a lot to San Antonio. So much of the history of our city is an important part of the Army’s history. San Antonio is known as Military City USA for good reason. The Army’s presence here has shaped our city in so many ways, from our economy to our culture.

On a personal note, this day holds a special place in my heart because my father and my little brother are Army veterans. Growing up, I understood firsthand the dedication, courage, and commitment it takes to serve. It’s something I deeply respect and am incredibly proud of.

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the men and women who serve and have served in the Army. We are so proud of the soldiers who call San Antonio home, and today, we honor your service. Let’s also remember the families who stand behind our soldiers. Their sacrifices and unwavering support are a crucial part of the strength and success of our military. Happy birthday to the United States Army!

FATHER'S DAY

I had a wonderful early Father’s Day celebration at the Darner senior center!

Every opportunity to spend time with our seniors is time well spent. I’m grateful for their wisdom and optimism and I’m looking forward to sharing more hugs and smiles with them.

Have a great week!

Councilwoman Melissa Cabello Havrda

SAPD Calls for Service - Last 7 Days

Click on the image for interactive map.

Council Meetings and Committees

BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS MEETINGS WEEK:

• Zoning Board of Adjustment
• WEEK 3 AABE WORKSHOP: Post Award Debriefing: Opportunities & Triumphs
• Zoning Commission
• Removing Barriers to Affordable Housing Development & Preservation Subcommittee Meeting - June 18, 2024
• Public Meeting #1 - FY 2025 Action Plan & Budget
• Public Comment Session
• Storm Water Management Advisory Board Meeting
• City Council Zoning and Land Use Session
• Historic Compliance and Technical Advisory Board (CTAB)
• Municipal Court Advisory Committee
• San Antonio Public Library Board of Trustees

Construction and Maintenance Notices

June 3^rd – June 24^th

• Hawkwood @ Pentridge -  weather permitting. 
• Hillcroft @ Alderwood - weather permitting.

June 17^th – July 17^th 

• Arbeth Place @ Heath Glen. - weather permitting.

June 10^th – June 26^th    

• Round Hill @ Hill Ridge; @ Lark Crossing; @ Misty Park; @ Tree Top; @ Oak Field Way - weather permitting.

June 10^th – July 1^st – Phase II 

• Selected sidewalk panels on Millbank Dr.  from Callaghan to Moortown Dr. - weather permitting.

June 18^th – June 18^th        

• Buena Vista from SW 36^th to SW 37^th.  - weather permitting.

March 7 - July 7

• Old Tezel Rd
  • Within COSA right of way, start path at approximately 9418 Guilbeau Rd proposing to bore for an estimated 3,514 ft along Old Tezel Rd.

March 1 - July 1

• Rue De Bois
  • Within COSA right of way, start path at approximately 9303 Rue De Bois proposing to softscape for an estimated 4,407 ft and bore 400 ft along Rue de Bois, Autumn Branches, Autumn Sunrise and Braun Rd.

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March 2 - July 2

• Guilbeau Rd.
  • Within COSA right of way, start path at approximately 9418 Guilbeau Rd, proposing to softscape for an estimated 1,812 ft and bore 418 ft along Guilbeau Rd between Old Tezel Rd and Tezel Rd.

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May 3 - September 3

• Tezel Rd
  • Within COSA right of way, start path at approximately 8181 Tezel Rd proposing to bore for an estimated 609 ft along Tezel Rd.

ACS Pet Of The Week

Foster with PRIDE! 

We're calling all animal lovers!  We are looking for loving foster homes for puppies and kittens from now through Thursday, June 20th. 

Just one week in your home can give these adorable fur babies a lifetime of happiness. 

By opening your hearts and homes, you'll provide these sweet animals the love and care they need until they find their forever homes at our Adopt with Pride Adoption Special on June 22nd.

Why Foster?

Help a puppy or kitten in need

Experience the joy of having a furry friend temporarily

Support our mission to find forever homes for these precious animals

Sign up to foster today and make a difference!

To become a short-term foster hero, sign up by visiting saacs.info/fosterwithpride

Let's come together and make a pawsitive impact!

Community Bulletin Board

The Bond Project will construct roadway improvements to include sidewalks, curbs, driveway approaches, drainage, bicycle facilities and other improvements as applicable and within available funding.  This is a multi-phased project. 

Click on the graphic above for more information.

Mental Health Matters!

The Teen Mental Health Survey, created by teens for teens ages 12-19 in San Antonio, is now live. By filling it out today, teens can help improve teen mental health in San Antonio!

Take the survey here: https://publicinput.com/v2030

Did you know that we have an interactive Apartment Inspections dashboard? Stay up to date on inspection activities for apartment units. For more info: https://app.powerbigov.us/view...

COSA Construction Resource Toolkit

As progress continues in our City so does construction.  I am reaching out to remind you that COSA has a Construction Resource Toolkit to help small businesses impacted by construction in their area.  This guide includes contacts, strategies, and other resources to help small businesses prepare and navigate the construction experience. This Toolkit is available digitally at the links listed below. 

• EDD Programs & Grants page
• Construction Resource Toolkit-ENGLISH
• Construction Resource Toolkit-SPANISH

The Texas Legislature recently enacted HB 114 requiring all school districts to implement mandatory disciplinary alternative education program (DAEP) placement for students found in possession of, using, selling, giving, or delivering e-cigarettes or vaping devices on school grounds or at a school-related event.

This alternative school placement, required by law, is made regardless of whether the substance being vaped is a controlled substance or not.

We ask that you discuss this new state law with your child(ren).

Pack your school bag with resources from San Antonio Public Library!

Local libraries offer school resources for students of all ages

The school year is once again upon us, and San Antonio Public Library (SAPL) wants to remind students and their families of the educational resources available at your library year-round. Throughout the year, SAPL is packed with free resources to support children, teens, and adults on their educational journeys.

In addition to a collection of over 2 million items and dozens of free online databases, SAPL offers online tutoring, Wi-Fi, low-cost printing services, and more for all ages. Sign up for a free SAPL card today to kick off the school year and enjoy several services and resources to assist in your educational pursuits. Visit MySAPL.org/CardSignUp or stop by your nearest SAPL location to register.

SAPL’s educational resources include:

Read-alongs

Available at all SAPL Locations

Do you have a young child learning to read or reading English or Spanish for the first time? Read-alongs, print books with built-in audio narration, are available in a range of English and Spanish titles. They are an entertaining, self-guided way to help enhance your little one's literacy skills. To borrow a read-along, visit the read-along shelf at your nearest SAPL location. Introduce children to the pleasure of independent reading and let them embark on a delightful literary journey with read-along stories. To learn more about these selections and to browse them in our collection, visit the children's services section of the SAPL website.

MySAPL App

Download instant access to the San Antonio Public Library collection on your phone or mobile device. The MySAPL app is free, easy, and available for both iOS and Android users — take the library wherever you go!

PrintOnline

Available at all SAPL Locations

PrintOnline is a mobile printing service available to all library cardholders. Get printing in four simple steps:

1. Access the PrintOnline portal
2. Upload documents from home, the office, a coffee shop, or anywhere you have internet access
3. Visit your nearest branch library to print your files
4. Enter your SAPL card number into the print kiosk at your library to finish printing your documents.

Free Indoor & Outdoor Public Wi-Fi

Available at SAPL Locations

You’ll always have the Wi-Fi password at SAPL! Wi-Fi is available at all SAPL locations daily.* Indoor Wi-Fi is available during normal service hours and outdoor Wi-Fi is available from 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. every day.

* Locations undergoing building improvements or other projects may have adjusted hours. Details listed at MySAPL.org.

Ask a Librarian
Call (210-207-2500) or chat online (Ask.MySAPL.org)
Librarians are teachers in disguise. They’re available to make book recommendations for your next research project or help with account questions.

Homework Help

Daily | 11 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.

Connecting you to Homework Help heroes is what we do. Free online homework help from professional tutors is available in a variety of subjects for students in kindergarten through college. Available 11 a.m. to 11:59 p.m., seven days a week in English and Spanish. For more information, visit SAPL’s expert help website.

SORA App

SAPL has partnered with every public school district in the area to offer students unlimited access to age-appropriate materials in our digital library even if you don't have a SAPL card. Thanks to the Sora app by OverDrive, San Antonio students at participating schools can easily browse our extensive library. Head over to Sora’s website to see if your school is participating!

FAFSA Assistance   

Monday – Thursday, 1 p.m. - 10 p.m.

College preparation just got a little bit easier! Brought to you by Brainfuse, FAFSA tutors are available for live assistance Monday through Thursday, 1:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Visit SAPL’s featured services page for details.

Database Access
Looking for the August 1973 issue of National Geographic for a research project? Need access to over 60 years of articles about rock music? From Aardvarks to ZZ Top, San Antonio Public Library is your doorway to over 170 online databases, including popular news databases like the New York Times and Wall Street Journal. Some databases are library-use only, so visit your nearest SAPL location for these resources. To get started visit our database guide.

For more information on Back-to-School resources provided by SAPL, visit our guide.

Animal Care Services Extends Shelter Hours to Encourage Lifesaving

 San Antonio Animal Care Services (ACS) has expanded shelter hours to give would-be adopters, fosters, and rescue partners more opportunities to help pets in need. The municipal shelter will be open two additional hours, with adoptions and other services now available from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays. Weekend hours remain unchanged, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The $25 special adoption rate continues through the end of July. This special rate applies to dog, cat, puppy, and kitten adoptions. 

Fosters Desperately Needed to Help Local Pets in Need

 San Antonio Animal Care Services (ACS) and local animal welfare partners have been flooded with pets in need, including dozens of puppies and kittens. Fosters are urgently needed to provide temporary care for pets as they become adoption ready. Foster applications are available via the following links:

• Animal Care Services at: www.saacs.info/foster
• San Antonio Pets Alive! at: www.sanantoniopetsalive.org/programs/foster
• Animal Defense League at: www.adltexas.org/foster-application/

Fosters will receive food and other supplies for their temporary pets including medical care and vaccinations. Interested residents should check with the program of their choice for additional resources. 

Always dispose of pesticides properly

Pesticides and herbicides can be a convenient way to protect plants from pests and weeds. But when used or discarded incorrectly, these chemicals pose great risks not only to our ecosystem and wildlife, but also to our water, soil, air and human health.

The best way to avoid the perils of pesticides and herbicides is to stop using them altogether. But if you must use them:

• Always carefully read the product label and follow the disposal instructions exactly.
• Only purchase what you need and use it until it’s gone to avoid leftovers.
• Never discard these items in your trash bin for regular collection.  
• Don’t ever pour them down sink drains, toilets or storm drains.

Pesticides and herbicides must be disposed properly at a household hazardous waste site. For a schedule of monthly drop-off events, visit sa.gov/swmd.

A higher-paying career is now within your reach. San Antonio’s unprecedented Ready to Work program offers tuition assistance for education and job training.

Career coaches are with you from start to finish to evaluate what you need now to get started, guide you through career planning and get you enrolled to begin your path to securing a quality, higher-paying job.

No other program offers more support to ensure participants reach success. If you are ready for a change, take advantage of this opportunity now.

There are three easy ways to learn more and apply:

      1. Online: Visit readytoworksa.com

      2. Phone: Call 3-1-1 and ask for Ready to Work

          3. In Person: Visit Alamo Colleges District, Project Quest, Restore Education or Workforce Solutions Alamo

Animal Care Services joins Daisy Cares to feed hungry pets in San Antonio 

Pet food donations sought as holidays near and needs increase   

The San Antonio Animal Care Services (SAACS) team is joining Daisy Cares, a local non-profit, to host a holiday pet food drive that will help both organizations support pet parents in need by filling their pet pantries.    

Bags of dog and puppy food are especially needed in addition to other new or gently used pet items. All donations will be divided between the Daisy Cares pet food pantry and the SAACS Community Animal Support and Assistance (CASA) program, which uses a case management approach to assist pet parents in need with food, humane care support, and veterinary resources.   

Residents can bring pet food donations through the end of November to Animal Care Services during regular business hours. SAACS is located at 4710 State Highway 151 and is open on weekdays from 1 - 7 p.m. and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. on weekends (except on City holidays). All donations are tax-deductible.

CPS energy has launched an updated webpage with information to help keep customers safe in the event of an outage: www.cpsenergy.com/prepare and in Spanish www.cpsenergy.com/preparar.

Customers are also encouraged to update their emergency contact information with CPS in case of an emergency.

For more information visit http://cpsenergy.com